Günther Fielmann

The German optics industry changed permanently in 1981 when Günther Fielmann introduced a selection of 90 fashionable frames available through statutory health insurance allowances. Prior to this shift, consumers in the state-insured system were restricted to a mere six models, a limitation he dismantled to remove the social stigma traditionally associated with wearing spectacles.

Early Career and Retail Expansion

Born in Stafstedt in 1939 to Wilhelm and Marie-Louise Fielmann, the future entrepreneur initially considered a career in photography. Following his father's insistence, he began an apprenticeship as an optometrist in 1956, becoming a master in 1965. His retail career launched in 1972 with his first shop in Cuxhaven. By 1982, his business model expanded significantly with a store in Kiel that offered customers a choice of over 7,000 different frames. This aggressive approach to market variety supported rapid growth, leading to the incorporation of Fielmann KG, which subsequently transformed into Fielmann AG and entered the public market in 1994.

THE FREE TEST

How high is yours?

Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.

Take the IQ test →

Professional Recognition and Corporate Legacy

Fielmann received extensive recognition for his commercial influence throughout his career. His honors include the Officer's Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany in 2000, followed by the Commander's Cross of the Order of Merit in 2016. In 2003, he won the German startup prize, and in 2012, he was awarded the Deutscher Handelspreis. The Christian Albrechts University of Kiel granted him an honorary doctorate in 2004, while he received honorary citizenship in 2005 and 2016. By 2019, he transitioned management of the Fielmann Group to his son, Marc Fielmann.

Agricultural Interests and Environmental Initiatives

Beyond eyewear, Fielmann maintained significant agricultural interests, managing several estates including the 1,600-hectare Schierensee manor, 470 hectares at Marutendorf, 180 hectares in Krummwisch, and additional farmland in Lütjensee. He marketed the output of these properties under the Hof Lütjensee brand. His environmental commitments included a policy of planting a tree for every employee annually; by May 2009, he had planted his one-millionth tree in a ceremony attended by Chancellor Angela Merkel. He also established an optometry training center at Plön Castle, which he acquired and renovated in 2002.