Paul van Zuydam is a South African billionaire businessman and the owner of the legendary French cookware brand Le Creuset. Born in 1938, Van Zuydam established himself as a prominent leader in the South African homeware industry as the Chairman and CEO of Prestige.

His entry into the billionaire ranks is a testament to one of the most successful brand turnarounds in luxury history. In the mid-1980s, while Le Creuset was struggling with debt and family infighting, Van Zuydam recognized the enduring value of its French craftsmanship and iconic colorful enamel.

• Core Company: Le Creuset.
• Acquisition: Personally purchased Le Creuset in 1988 after a deal via his previous company stalled.
• Origins: South African industrialist who revived a 100-year-old French icon.

Paul van Zuydam’s career is defined by his visionary modernization of Le Creuset. After acquiring the firm in 1988, he refocused production at its original site in Fresnoy-le-Grand, France, closing inefficient facilities and investing heavily in automation.

Under his ownership, the company tripled its capacity and expanded aggressively into the United States and Asia. He transitioned the brand from a niche kitchen tool into a global cultural icon, used by celebrity chefs like Julia Child. By late 2025, Le Creuset was generating over $850 million in annual revenue, remaining entirely debt-free since 2001. At 87, he continues to serve as the company's president and active owner.

• Role: Owner and President of Le Creuset.
• Milestone: Reached billionaire status in December 2025 with a net worth of $1.7 billion.