Nicola Bulgari: A Billionaire in the Automotive Industry

Overview

Nicola Bulgari is an Italian businessman and billionaire, known for his involvement in the automotive industry. He is the Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors and a shareholder of luxury carmaker Bulgari Group, which was founded by his grandfather Sotirio Bulgari in 1884. He also owns a large collection of vintage cars, which he often exhibits at public events. According to Forbes, Nicola Bulgari’s net worth is estimated at $1.6 billion.

Early Life and Education

Nicola Bulgari was born in Rome, Italy, in 1941, to Giorgio and Maria Bulgari. His family owned Bulgari, a high-end jewelry and watch brand that has become a global icon of luxury. Nicola grew up in a privileged environment, but he was also exposed to the world of mechanics and engines, thanks to his father’s passion for cars.

Nicola studied at LUISS Guido Carli University in Rome, where he earned a degree in economics. He also attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the United States, where he specialized in mechanical engineering.

Career and Achievements

After completing his studies, Nicola Bulgari started working for his family’s business, where he held various positions, including Vice President of International Sales and Creative Director. However, he was also interested in the automotive industry, and in the 1970s, he began collecting vintage cars and restoring them to their former glory.

In the early 1990s, Nicola Bulgari decided to establish a company that would sell high-quality parts and accessories for vintage cars. He founded Bulgari Classic Parts, which became a leading provider of hard-to-find components for classic vehicles. The business was a success, and it allowed Nicola to expand his collection of cars.

In 2008, Nicola Bulgari acquired a majority stake in the American carmaker and racing team, Stewart-Haas Racing, which competes in the NASCAR Cup Series. The team has won numerous championships and is one of the most successful in the sport.

Personal Life

Nicola Bulgari is married and has three children. He is known for his love of vintage cars and has amassed a collection of over 250 vehicles, which he keeps at his estate in Pennsylvania. The collection includes rare and iconic models from brands such as Ferrari, Alfa Romeo, and Bugatti.

Nicola Bulgari is also a philanthropist and has donated large sums to cultural institutions and charities. In 2011, he made a $3 million donation to the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, which helped fund the organization’s Center for Entrepreneurship. He has also supported educational programs for underprivileged children and has funded medical research.

Profile