Cypriot family whose fortune was built on shipping. Today, they are primarily known for launching low-cost airline easyJet. Before his death, shipping tycoon Loucas Haji-Ioannou had amassed the largest private tanker fleet in the world.
Loucas Haji-Ioannou’s son, Stelios, founded easyJet after leaving his father’s shipping company in 1995. Stelios founded easyGroup in 1998, which controls the family’s group of “Easy” brands and acts as a private investment vehicle. Stelios’ net worth is estimated at $1.4 billion. Renowned for his philanthropy, the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation supports many charitable initiatives. Stelios was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2006 for his contribution to entrepreneurship.
Stelios’ sister, Clelia Haji-Ioannou, owns a stake in easyJet, in addition to real estate properties across Europe. Her brother, Polys, runs his own shipping business and maintains commercial and residential real estate interests. He also owns a stake in easyJet. The family’s estimated net worth is nearly $4 billion.
