‘Sphinx-like’ Ralph Sonnenberg provided the world with Luxaflex

Ralph Sonnenberg, the influential entrepreneur behind Luxaflex and Hunter Douglas, passed away at 92. He transformed the company into a global leader in window coverings, amassing significant wealth while maintaining a low public profile. Sonnenberg was known for his aversion to media attention and preferred to focus on his business and family. Under his leadership, Hunter Douglas grew from 140 million guilders to 4.1 billion euros by 2021. Despite attempts to take the company private, he ultimately sold it to a Brazilian firm for a substantial profit. Sonnenberg's legacy includes his unique management style and lasting impact on the industry.