From a modest business to the world’s largest bakery, the journey of this Mexican entrepreneur remains a benchmark for generations. He was once one of the richest men in Mexico and passed away among the wealthiest.
At a time when bread was just beginning to establish itself as a mass-consumption product in Mexico, a family of Spanish origin invested in hard work, discipline, and a long-term vision. What began as a neighborhood bakery in Mexico City eventually became a globally recognized brand.
Behind this growth was a young man who, after his father’s death, decided to change the course of his life. Although he was studying at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and had a promising academic future, he chose to take over the family business. That decision would mark the birth of one of Mexico’s most influential business groups.
This is the story of Lorenzo Servitje, founder of Grupo Bimbo.
Lorenzo Servitje Sendra was born on November 20, 1918, in Mexico City, the son of Spanish immigrants of Catalan origin. His father, Juan Servitje Torrallardona, arrived in the country in 1904 and worked in a pastry shop before founding his own business, El Molino de Argentina, in the late 1920s. His mother, Josefina Sendra Grimau, arrived in Mexico in 1914. Lorenzo was the eldest of five siblings.
While studying accounting at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), his father’s death in 1936 completely changed his life. At just 18 years old, Lorenzo became fully involved in the family pastry business, where everyone collaborated: from baking bread to serving customers and handling distribution. He took over the sales department and, over time, became manager, significantly growing the business in the capital.
Inspired by specialized publications from the United States and with a clear vision for expansion, he took the decisive step in 1945. Together with his brother Roberto, his brother-in-law, and cousin Jaime Jorba Sendra, he founded Panificadora Bimbo on December 2nd of that year. The company began with 34 employees and just four products, but from the outset, it focused on innovation, marketing, and a strong brand identity, represented by the iconic Bimbo Bear.
Over the years, Lorenzo Servitje spearheaded the company’s growth, transforming it into Grupo Bimbo, which he led from 1963 to 1993. Later, he remained connected to the group as a member of the board of directors. Today, the company is considered the world’s largest bakery, with a presence in dozens of countries.
In addition to his business achievements, Servitje was recognized for his philanthropic work, his support for education, and his environmental projects, such as the historic reforestation of millions of trees. He held positions in business organizations and was honored on numerous occasions for his leadership and values. He passed away on February 3, 2017, at the age of 98, leaving a legacy that remains a symbol of Mexican entrepreneurship.
Source: ambito
