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Lino Saputo

Born
Emanuele Saputo

(1937-06-10) June 10, 1937 (age 88)
Montelepre, Sicily, Italy
Citizenship Canadian
Occupation Businessman
Known for Founder of Saputo Inc.
Children 3, including Joey Saputo

Emanuele "Lino" Saputo is a very successful Italian-Canadian businessman. He was born on June 10, 1937. He is famous for starting Saputo Inc., a big Canadian company that makes cheese. As of November 2022, he was estimated to be worth about US$4.7 billion.

Early Life and Family

Lino Saputo was born in 1937 in a town called Montelepre in Sicily, Italy. His father, Giuseppe Saputo, was a cheesemaker. In 1950, Lino's father and oldest brother, Frank, moved to Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Two years later, in 1952, Lino joined them in Canada. His mother, Maria, and his other siblings, Luigi, Rosalia, Elina, Maria, and Antonina, also came along.

Building a Business

Lino Saputo became the leader of Saputo Inc. in 1969. He was the chairman of the board and the president. In 1997, when the company became public, he was named chairman and chief executive officer (CEO). This meant he was in charge of the whole company.

In March 2004, Lino's son, Lino Saputo Jr., took over as president and CEO. Lino Saputo Sr. continued to be the company's chairman. Later, in August 2017, Lino Saputo Jr. also became the chairman. Lino Saputo Sr. still owns most of the company's shares.

Other Interests

Besides cheese, Lino Saputo has many other business interests. He owns a large part of a trucking company called TransForce. He has also invested a lot of money in real estate, which means buying and selling land and buildings. He also has investments in forest products, hotels, and golf courses.

Lino Saputo also loves hockey. He even started a company called Quartexx Management that helps hockey players.

In 2011, he created the Amelia and Lino Saputo Jr. Foundation. This foundation helps educate and support young people for the future.

Special Awards

Lino Saputo has received important awards for his work and contributions. In 2011, he was made an Officer of the National Order of Quebec. This is a high honor from the province of Quebec.

In 2012, he was appointed a Member of the Order of Canada (CM). This is one of the highest honors a Canadian citizen can receive. It recognizes people who have made a big difference to Canada.

His son, Lino Saputo Jr., was also recognized for his leadership. In 2019, he was named "Canada's Outstanding CEO of the Year."

See also

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