Third-generation family business wins top award

Jebsen & Jessen, a third-generation family business based in Singapore, has won the annual IMD-Lombard Odier global family business award, considered by many as the most prestigious prize in the sector.

Based in Singapore and privately owned, Jebsen & Jessen is involved in a host of businesses, spanning across distribution, manufacturing, engineering and mining activities. The various businesses under the group employ more than 7,000 people worldwide and generate around $4.5 billion in annual sales.

IMD and Lombard Odier said Jebsen & Jessen won the award “for an accumulation of merits, which include its commitment to sustainability as well as its skill in mastering entrepreneurial partnerships, starting with its own…” Jebsen & Jessen’s roots go back to 1895 when two cousins from Jebsen and Jessen families, originating from Denmark, established a trading house in Hong Kong. Family owner Heinrich Jessen is currently chairman of the group.

Now in its 21st year, past winners of the IMD-Lombard Odier award have included LEGO, Ayala Corporation, S.C. Johnson and Hermès. Although one winner, Odebrecht from Brazil, hasn’t fared so well since it won the award in 2010.