A single shop opened in Trondheim in 1972 served as the foundation for an expansive retail empire. Odd Reitan, an entrepreneur and director, developed his commercial interests by collaborating with his father, Ole Reitan, and mother, Margit Aarhaug, who were both local grocers. This initial venture evolved into one of Norway's most prominent business entities.
Establishment of REMA 1000
The grocery chain REMA 1000 launched in 1979, proving highly successful within the Norwegian market. Strategic growth allowed the brand to penetrate every village with a population exceeding 10,000 residents by 1990. Throughout the 1990s, the company widened its reach significantly, establishing a presence across Denmark, Sweden, Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia.
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Before his prominence as a businessman, Reitan performed as a keyboard player for the music group Four Jets during the 1960s. In later years, he engaged in public debate through his 2012 book, Hvis jeg var president. The text proposed a governance model where he would serve as head of state through an appointment by the King of Norway, rather than via popular elections. This suggestion prompted sharp criticism in the publication Klassekampen, which characterized the proposal as undemocratic.
Philanthropy and Personal Life
Reitan has directed funds toward social initiatives, including a 2 million Norwegian kroner award in 2013 to Anlov Mathiesen, the chief editor of the street magazine =Oslo. He cited the importance of fostering self-respect among street vendors. Regarding his family life, he married Marit Arntsen in 1972, with whom he has two sons, Ole Robert and Magnus. He later married Hilde Undlien at Nidaros Cathedral in Trondheim in June 2018. He remains a resident of Trondheim and is the grandfather of the golfer Kristoffer Reitan.
Fast facts
- Born: 1951, Trondheim
- First shop: 1972
- REMA 1000 launch: 1979
- Book title: Hvis jeg var president
- Spouse: Hilde Undlien
- Former musical group: Four Jets
Questions readers ask
What is Odd Reitan's role in Reitan AS?
He is a co-owner and the CEO of the company.
Which countries did the REMA 1000 chain expand into during the 1990s?
The chain expanded into Denmark, Sweden, Poland, Hungary, and Slovakia.
