The definitive ranking of the wealthiest individuals in the West Midlands has been unveiled for 2025, showcasing a combined fortune that exceeds a staggering £50 billion.
The Top Tier of West Midlands Wealth
Compiled by Robert Watts, the renowned expert behind the Sunday Times Rich List, the exclusive findings have been published in the December issue of Midlands Business Insider. The list provides a fascinating snapshot of the region's most influential business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Leading the Pack: The Bet365 Founder
Topping the list once again is Denise Coates, the founder and CEO of online gambling giant Bet365. Her net worth has surged to an incredible £10.245 billion, a significant increase from £7.451 billion in 2024.
Speculation is rife that Coates, who started the business from a portable building in a Stoke-on-Trent car park, is considering a sale that could value Bet365 at up to £9 billion. Last year, she paid herself a salary of £94.7 million, and her family, who own 93.3% of the company, received £102.6 million in dividends. The Coates family are also known for their philanthropy, donating over £100 million annually to charity, and own Stoke-on-Trent FC.
Construction Dynasty and Retail Powerhouse
In second place is Lord Bamford and his family, with a fortune of £9.316 billion. Their wealth stems from the iconic construction equipment manufacturer JCB, founded by his father post-World War Two.
Despite a challenging year that saw profits dip nearly 15% due to weaker global demand, the Bamfords received a monumental £866 million dividend last year. The family's diverse portfolio also includes the Daylesford Organic brand and hydrogen bus maker Wrightbus.
Mike Ashley, the retail mogul from Walsall, secures the third spot with a net worth of £3.828 billion. His Frasers Group empire includes Sports Direct, Evans Cycles, and brands like Slazenger. Despite a dip in his shareholding value, Ashley remains a frenetic dealmaker, with recent moves into the leisure sector and rumours of interest in Sheffield Wednesday football club.
Notable Climbers and Local Success
Making a significant leap on the list are Ranjit and Baljinder Boparan from Birmingham. The 'chicken king', who started his career in a butcher's shop, has seen his wealth climb to £1.050 billion.
His 2 Sisters Food Group is a major poultry supplier, and his restaurant chains, including Carluccio’s and the rapidly expanding Slim Chickens, contributed to profits of £113 million on revenues of nearly £1.8 billion. His property portfolio also generates over £50 million in annual rental income.
This year's Rich List not only charts immense personal wealth but also highlights the diverse and powerful business landscape of the West Midlands, from manufacturing and retail to food and technology.
