LEGO is one of the most iconic toy companies in the world. Known for its colorful bricks, it has become a staple in households globally. But many people still ask, who owns LEGO today? This article explores LEGO’s ownership, its long history, revenue, leadership, and brands it operates.
LEGO Profile
LEGO Group is a Danish toy company best known for its interlocking plastic bricks. Founded in 1932 by Ole Kirk Christiansen in Billund, Denmark, LEGO has grown from a small family-owned business into a global brand. It specializes in creative play systems, educational products, theme parks, video games, and movies.
The name “LEGO” is derived from the Danish words leg godt, which mean “play well.” The core philosophy of LEGO is to inspire and develop the builders of tomorrow through creative play and imagination. LEGO is often ranked among the world’s most valuable and trusted toy brands.
Its product lines cater to various age groups, from toddler-focused DUPLO to complex sets for adults, including LEGO Technic, LEGO Architecture, and LEGO Icons.
LEGO Overview
- Official Name: The LEGO Group
- Founded: 1932
- Founder: Ole Kirk Christiansen
- Headquarters: Billund, Denmark
- Ownership: Privately held by Kirkbi A/S (75%) and the LEGO Foundation (25%)
- CEO: Niels B. Christiansen (since 2017)
- Industry: Toys, Entertainment, Education
- Main Products: LEGO bricks and sets, digital games, movies, educational kits
- Global Reach: Operations in over 130 countries
- Employees: Over 24,000 worldwide
- Revenue (2023): Approx. $9.3 billion
- Net Profit (2023): Approx. $1.9 billion
- Sustainability Goals: 100% sustainable materials and packaging by 2030.
Major Milestones
1932 – LEGO is founded
Ole Kirk Christiansen starts a small workshop making wooden toys in Billund, Denmark.
1934 – The name LEGO is introduced
The company adopts the name LEGO, combining the Danish words for “play well.”
1949 – First plastic bricks are produced
LEGO begins producing interlocking plastic bricks, a revolutionary product at the time.
1958 – The Modern LEGO brick is patented
The design of the classic brick, with its clutch power, is patented. This becomes the foundation for all future LEGO sets.
1968 – First LEGOLAND park opens
LEGOLAND Billund opens in Denmark, expanding the LEGO experience into theme parks.
1978 – Introduction of the LEGO minifigure
The iconic minifigure is introduced, adding personality and storytelling to LEGO playsets.
1999 – First licensed theme launched (Star Wars)
LEGO enters licensing with Star Wars, marking a new era of branded sets.
2004 – Major restructuring begins
LEGO faces a financial crisis. Jørgen Vig Knudstorp becomes CEO and leads a successful turnaround.
2014 – The LEGO Movie is released
The company enters the film industry with the highly successful LEGO Movie, broadening its entertainment portfolio.
2021 – Sustainability investments
LEGO begins investing heavily in sustainability, including recyclable packaging and plant-based bricks.
2023 – Record revenues
LEGO reports over $9 billion in revenue, confirming its position as a leader in the toy industry.
Who Owns LEGO: Major Shareholders
LEGO is a privately owned company. It is not listed on any stock exchange. The company is owned by the Kristiansen family through a private holding company called Kirkbi A/S. This family-run structure allows LEGO to maintain long-term goals instead of focusing on short-term profits.
The largest shareholder is Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen, the grandson of the founder. He played a key role in LEGO’s development and global success. The ownership structure has helped the company remain independent and stay true to its values.
Below is an overview of its shareholders:
KIRKBI A/S (75% Ownership)
KIRKBI A/S is the private holding and investment company of the Kirk Kristiansen family, descendants of LEGO’s founder, Ole Kirk Christiansen. Established in 1995, KIRKBI oversees the family’s investments and ownership interests, including a 75% stake in the LEGO Group.
In May 2023, a generational handover was completed, transferring leadership from Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen to his son, Thomas Kirk Kristiansen, who now serves as Chair of the Board for KIRKBI A/S, LEGO A/S, and the LEGO Foundation.
The ownership structure within KIRKBI A/S is as follows:
- Thomas Kirk Kristiansen: Represents the fourth generation of the family and holds a significant portion of the shares.
- Agnete Kirk Kristiansen: Also part of the fourth generation, she serves as Deputy Chair of the Board for KIRKBI A/S and the LEGO Foundation.
- Sofie Kirk Kristiansen: Initially held a substantial share but sold a portion of her shares back to KIRKBI in 2023 to focus on private projects related to nature conservation.
- Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen: As the third-generation owner, he retains a portion of the shares and continues to be involved in the family’s philanthropic endeavors.
- K2 Fonden af 2023: A family nonprofit foundation that holds a minor stake in KIRKBI A/S.
The LEGO Foundation (25% Ownership)
The LEGO Foundation owns the remaining 25% of the LEGO Group. Its mission aligns closely with that of the LEGO Group: to inspire and develop the builders of tomorrow. The Foundation focuses on redefining play and reimagining learning, aiming to equip children with essential skills for life in the 21st century.
The Foundation is governed by a Board of Directors, chaired by Thomas Kirk Kristiansen, ensuring alignment between the LEGO Group’s commercial activities and the Foundation’s philanthropic goals.
Who is the CEO of LEGO?
As of 2025, Niels B. Christiansen serves as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the LEGO Group. He assumed this role in October 2017 and, as of January 2025, also holds the position of CEO of LEGO Holding, overseeing all LEGO-branded activities and investments.
Background and Career
Born in 1966 in Sønderborg, Denmark, Niels B. Christiansen holds an MSc in Engineering and a BA from the Technical University of Denmark, as well as an MBA from INSEAD.
Before joining LEGO, Christiansen had a distinguished career in various leadership roles:
- Danfoss A/S: Served as CEO from 2008 to 2017, where he led the company through significant growth and globalization.
- GN Netcom: Held the position of CEO, contributing to the company’s advancements in communication technology.
- GN Store Nord and Hilti Corporation: Occupied key leadership roles, enhancing his experience in global operations.
- McKinsey & Company: Began his career as a management consultant, laying the foundation for his strategic approach to business.
Leadership and Achievements at LEGO
Under Christiansen’s leadership, LEGO has experienced substantial growth and innovation:
- Financial Performance: In 2024, LEGO reported a 13% increase in revenue, reaching 74.3 billion Danish kroner ($10.82 billion), and a 10% rise in operating profit to 18.7 billion Danish kroner.
- Product Expansion: Introduced new product lines such as LEGO Botanicals, appealing to a broader demographic, including teenage girls and women.
- Digital Innovation: Invested in in-house video game development, expanding digital play experiences and forming partnerships with brands like Fortnite and Nike to stay relevant among tweens.
- Global Expansion: Opened new manufacturing facilities in Vietnam and planned a new factory in Virginia, USA, to bring production closer to key markets.
- Sustainability Efforts: Committed to producing 50% of LEGO bricks from renewable or recycled materials by 2026, with a long-term goal of using entirely sustainable plastics by 2032.
Decision-Making Structure
As CEO, Christiansen leads LEGO’s executive leadership team, guiding the company’s strategic direction and operations. He collaborates closely with the Board of Directors and the Kirk Kristiansen family, ensuring alignment with LEGO’s mission to inspire and develop the builders of tomorrow.
Previous CEOs
Before Christiansen, LEGO’s leadership included:
- Bali Padda (2017): Served as CEO for a brief period before Christiansen’s appointment.
- Jørgen Vig Knudstorp (2004–2016): Credited with leading LEGO through a significant turnaround and revitalization.
- Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen (1979–2004): Grandson of LEGO’s founder, he expanded the company globally and introduced many of its most successful product lines.
Niels B. Christiansen’s tenure as CEO has been marked by a blend of tradition and innovation, steering LEGO through a dynamic period of growth and transformation.
Annual Revenue and Net Worth of LEGO
The LEGO Group reported a 13% increase in revenue, reaching DKK 74.3 billion (approximately $10.85 billion), driven by strong demand across its diverse product portfolio. Operating profit rose by 10% to DKK 18.7 billion, while net profit increased by 5% to DKK 13.8 billion. These results were supported by a 12% growth in consumer sales and significant market share gains, even as the overall toy market experienced a slight decline.
2025 Outlook
Building on the momentum from 2024, the LEGO Group continues to invest in strategic initiatives, including digital innovation, sustainability, and global expansion. The company opened a new factory in Vietnam in April 2025, noted as its most environmentally sustainable facility to date.
LEGO has expanded its digital offerings, including collaborations with brands like Fortnite, Nike, and Formula One, to engage a broader audience.
Net Worth
As of 2025, the LEGO Group’s estimated net worth is approximately $45 billion, reflecting its robust financial health and global brand strength. This valuation encompasses the company’s diverse revenue streams, including traditional toy sales, digital products, licensing agreements, and its presence in various entertainment sectors.
Here’s a breakdown of historical revenge and the net worth of LEGO:
| Year | Revenue (USD Billion) | Net Worth (USD Billion, est.) |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 10.85 | 45.0 |
| 2024 | 10.25 | 42.0 |
| 2023 | 9.28 | 39.5 |
| 2022 | 9.08 | 37.0 |
| 2021 | 8.06 | 34.0 |
| 2020 | 6.99 | 31.0 |
| 2019 | 6.65 | 27.5 |
| 2018 | 5.87 | 25.0 |
| 2017 | 5.79 | 23.0 |
| 2016 | 5.93 | 21.5 |
| 2015 | 5.21 | 20.0 |
Brands and Companies Owned by LEGO
As of 2025, the LEGO Group has expanded its portfolio beyond its iconic brick sets, encompassing a diverse range of companies, brands, and strategic partnerships. This expansion reflects LEGO’s commitment to innovation, digital integration, and global reach.
Here’s a list of the major brands and companies owned by LEGO as of May 2025:
| Company/Brand Name | Year Established | Core Function / Focus | Ownership / Partner |
|---|---|---|---|
| LEGO Digital Play | 2025 | Develops new branded gaming and digital play experiences beyond traditional products | Owned by LEGO Holding (KIRKBI A/S) |
| LEGO Education | 1980 | Provides STEM-focused educational kits and solutions for classrooms worldwide | Fully owned division of LEGO Group |
| LEGO Serious Play | 2002 | Facilitates business development using LEGO-based workshops for creativity and strategy | LEGO-certified consultants |
| LEGO Wear | 1993 | Produces children’s and adult clothing themed around LEGO IP | Operated under license by Kabooki A/S |
| LEGO Ventures | 2018 | Invests in startups aligned with LEGO’s mission (edtech, digital play, creativity) | Funded by KIRKBI A/S |
| LEGO Foundation | 1986 | Promotes learning through play and owns 25% of LEGO Group | Independent philanthropic foundation |
| LEGO Retail Stores | 2002 | Operates over 1,000 global brand stores offering immersive LEGO experiences | Fully operated by LEGO Group |
| LEGO Licensing Partnerships | Various (Ongoing) | Expands brand via global partnerships in entertainment, fashion, and gaming | Includes F1, Pokémon, Bluey, Adidas, etc. |
| LEGO Collaborations | Ongoing | Strategic product partnerships with brands like Levi’s, IKEA, Adidas, Nike | Co-branded licensing deals |
LEGO Digital Play
Established in early 2025 under LEGO Holding, LEGO Digital Play is a new entity dedicated to exploring innovative gaming and digital experiences. Led by industry veteran Aaron Loeb, the division focuses on developing new digital play experiences beyond current offerings. It operates independently from the LEGO Group, aiming to expand the LEGO brand into new digital realms.
LEGO Education
LEGO Education provides educational resources and kits designed to teach STEM concepts through hands-on learning. These products are used in classrooms worldwide to enhance student engagement. The division continues to innovate, offering solutions that integrate physical and digital learning experiences.
LEGO Serious Play
LEGO Serious Play is a consultancy service that uses LEGO bricks to facilitate business and organizational development. It encourages creative thinking and problem-solving through hands-on, minds-on learning. The methodology is employed by organizations globally to foster innovation and team collaboration.
LEGO Wear
In partnership with Kabooki, LEGO offers a range of children’s clothing under the LEGO Wear brand. This line combines functionality with playful designs inspired by LEGO themes. The collaboration has expanded to include apparel for adults, featuring collections with brands like Adidas and Levi’s.
LEGO Ventures
LEGO Ventures invests in startups and innovative companies that align with LEGO’s mission to inspire and develop the builders of tomorrow. It focuses on areas like education technology and digital play, supporting ventures that complement LEGO’s core values and business objectives.
LEGO Foundation
The LEGO Foundation owns 25% of the LEGO Group and focuses on promoting learning through play. It supports initiatives that provide children with opportunities to develop essential life skills. The foundation works globally, partnering with organizations to enhance educational outcomes through playful learning.
LEGO Retail Stores
LEGO operates over 1,000 retail stores worldwide, providing immersive brand experiences. These stores often feature interactive displays and exclusive products. In 2024, LEGO opened 41 new stores globally, expanding its physical presence and enhancing customer engagement.
LEGO Licensing Partnerships
LEGO has established numerous licensing partnerships to expand its brand into various sectors. Notable collaborations include:
- Formula 1: Launching in 2025, LEGO’s partnership with Formula 1 introduces sets that bring the world of F1 to life, featuring teams and engaging content for fans of all ages.
- Bluey: In collaboration with BBC Studios, LEGO released six new sets in 2025 based on the popular children’s TV show Bluey, targeting younger builders through LEGO 4+ and DUPLO product lines.
- Pokémon: Announced in 2025, LEGO’s partnership with The Pokémon Company will see the release of LEGO Pokémon sets starting in 2026, allowing fans to build their favorite characters using LEGO bricks.
Conclusion
So, who owns LEGO?
The answer lies with the Kristiansen family and their holding company, Kirkbi A/S. LEGO remains private, independent, and guided by long-term values. With a strong leadership team, innovative products, and a powerful brand, LEGO continues to lead the toy industry. Its unique ownership model blends profit with purpose, making it one of the most admired companies in the world.
FAQs
Who owns 25% of LEGO?
The LEGO Foundation owns 25% of the LEGO Group. It is a philanthropic organization focused on promoting learning through play. The foundation reinvests its profits into global educational and development initiatives, especially for children.
Who is LEGO owned by now?
As of 2025, the LEGO Group is privately owned. KIRKBI A/S, the investment company of the Kristiansen family (founders of LEGO), owns 75% of the LEGO Group. The remaining 25% is owned by the LEGO Foundation.
Is LEGO owned by Disney?
No, LEGO is not owned by Disney. However, LEGO has licensing agreements with Disney to create sets based on Disney-owned franchises like Star Wars, Marvel, Frozen, and Mickey Mouse. These are collaborations, not ownership.
How rich is the LEGO family?
The Kristiansen family, through KIRKBI A/S, is among the wealthiest families in Denmark. As of 2025, their combined net worth exceeds $30 billion. Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen, the former CEO and grandson of the LEGO founder, is the most prominent family member and billionaire.
Who actually invented LEGO?
LEGO was invented by Ole Kirk Christiansen, a Danish carpenter. He founded the company in 1932. The name “LEGO” was adopted in 1934, derived from the Danish words “leg godt”, meaning “play well.” The iconic LEGO brick design was patented in 1958.
Is LEGO cheaper in Denmark?
Yes, LEGO products are generally cheaper in Denmark, especially when purchased directly from LEGO’s headquarters or flagship stores. Since Denmark is LEGO’s home country, prices are more competitive due to reduced export, logistics, and tax costs.
What country owns LEGO?
LEGO is owned and headquartered in Denmark. The company’s main office is located in Billund, where it was founded. Ownership remains with the Danish Kristiansen family through KIRKBI A/S.
Who owns the largest LEGO collection?
As of the most recent data, Dr. Gerhard Tschernezky of Austria is believed to own one of the largest private LEGO collections in the world. There are also several well-known collectors and institutions that hold massive LEGO inventories, including The LEGO House in Billund.
Who are all the LEGO owners?
The ownership is concentrated in two main entities:
- KIRKBI A/S (75%): Controlled by the Kristiansen family.
- LEGO Foundation (25%): A charitable foundation focused on education and child development.
Who is the shareholder of LEGO?
The shareholders of the LEGO Group are:
- KIRKBI A/S (majority shareholder with 75%)
- LEGO Foundation (minority shareholder with 25%)
There are no public or institutional shareholders since LEGO is a private company.
Who is the owner of LEGO’s son?
The current family patriarch is Kjeld Kirk Kristiansen, grandson of LEGO founder Ole Kirk Christiansen. His son, Thomas Kirk Kristiansen, now serves as chairman of LEGO A/S and is expected to carry forward the family’s legacy in leading the business.
Is LEGO owned by Mattel?
No, LEGO is not owned by Mattel. LEGO and Mattel are competitors in the toy industry. Mattel owns brands like Barbie and Hot Wheels, while LEGO remains a privately owned family company based in Denmark.
Who owns KIRKBI?
KIRKBI A/S is wholly owned by the Kristiansen family, the founding family of LEGO. The company manages LEGO-related investments and other business interests, including stakes in companies like Merlin Entertainments and renewable energy.
Is LEGO a public company?
No, LEGO is not a public company. It is privately held and not listed on any stock exchange. Its shares are owned exclusively by the Kristiansen family and the LEGO Foundation.
Who owns LEGOLAND?
LEGOLAND theme parks are owned and operated by Merlin Entertainments. KIRKBI A/S, the Kristiansen family’s investment firm, owns nearly 50% of Merlin Entertainments, making LEGO a major stakeholder in LEGOLAND’s operations.
Who is the largest shareholder of LEGO?
Kirkbi A/S, owned by the Kristiansen family, holds 75% of LEGO. It is the largest and controlling shareholder.
Does LEGO own LEGOLAND?
LEGOLAND parks are operated by Merlin Entertainments. Kirkbi A/S, which owns LEGO, has a major stake in Merlin. So indirectly, the Kristiansen family has ownership influence.