Frank Lowy (A Holocaust Survivor Turned Billionaire)
Dynamic tycoon, Frank Lowy, faces legal battle over alleged tax evasion schemes.
There isn't a more inspiring tale in the realm of business and resilience than Frank Lowy's. Born in 1930, Lowy lived through the darkest chapter of human history as a Holocaust survivor, yet he managed to transform his life into an impressive success story that made him one of Australia's richest men.
Birth and Survival struggles
Born in Czechoslovakia, Lowy and his family were sent to a concentration camp during World War II. Miraculously, he escaped and eventually settled in Israel. It was there that he decided to emigrate to Australia in 1952[1][5].
The Westfield Empire
Lowy's journey in Australia began with the establishment of the Westfield Group (then Westfield Shopping Centre) with his partner, John Saunders, in 1959. Armed with determination, they started with a single shopping center in Blacktown, New South Wales, which quickly grew to become one of the world's largest shopping center operators[5].
Under Lowy's leadership, Westfield expanded globally, opening facilities in the United States, United Kingdom, and New Zealand. The company evolved into a dominant player in the retail industry.
Philanthropy and Legacy
Alongside his business achievements, Lowy is known for his philanthropic contributions, particularly in the areas of education and the arts. He has been affiliated with various charitable organizations and has garnered numerous accolades for his efforts[1].
One of his most significant philanthropic endeavors involves the USC Shoah Foundation, which strives to preserve testimonies from Holocaust survivors like him[1]. The foundation's mission reflects Lowy's commitment to ensuring that the horrors of the past are not forgotten and are used as a learning tool for future generations.
Speaking for Peace
Lowy recounts his experiences and advocates for peace and understanding, using his platform to emphasize the importance of tolerance[5]. On occasions like Thanksgiving Day, he shares powerful speeches embodying hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
Recent Events
Despite stepping down as Chairman of Westfield Group in 2011, Lowy's influence on the retail landscape remains impactful. Westfield was acquired by Unibail-Rodamco in 2018, forming the globally influential Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield[5].
Lowy's journey exemplifies how one person can overcome staggering odds to build a thriving business empire and a lasting legacy rooted in philanthropy and the importance of remembering our Horrifying past.
In his philanthropic efforts, Frank Lowy has significantly contributed to various sectors, particularly education and the arts, making a significant impact similar to his influence on the retail industry. As a former Chairman of Westfield Group, he played a pivotal role in establishing one of the world's largest shopping center operators, which later merged with Unibail-Rodamco to form a globally influential retail finance entity.
