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Billionaire Klaus-Michael Kühne dies at 89

Businessman Klaus-Michael Kühne has passed away at the age of 89 in Switzerland. Kühne was known for his role at Kühne + Nagel and as a major shareholder in Lufthansa.

24 August 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: Billionaire Klaus-Michael Kühne dies at 89 — Archive photoPhoto: hh oldman · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 3.0

Klaus-Michael Kühne passed away on Monday night at the age of 89 in Switzerland, as reported by his company Kühne + Nagel. He was among the most prominent entrepreneurs in Germany and a key figure in the logistics industry.

Kühne was known for transforming Kühne + Nagel into a global logistics corporation. He turned the company from a medium-sized transport firm into one of the major players in international trade.

In addition, Kühne was a significant shareholder of Lufthansa, wielding considerable influence over the company. In his later years, he also invested in various projects, including the Elbtower in Hamburg.

Klaus-Michael Kühne grew up in Hamburg and had lived in Switzerland for many years. This close connection to his birthplace remained important to him, particularly regarding local investments and economic growth.

His death was reported by several media outlets, which highlighted his entrepreneurial achievements and influence on the economy. Kühne was regarded as one of the richest people in Germany and a powerful businessman who significantly shaped logistics.

Throughout his career, Kühne achieved numerous successes but also faced challenges, including financial losses in some of his investments. The company Kühne + Nagel confirmed his passing and announced that management and employees would gather in his memory.

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