Joseph Kruger II, born in Montreal on July 12, 1945, is a Canadian businessman. He leads and develops the Kruger Group, his Quebec-based family business active in the paper, packaging, and energy sectors.
Kruger II earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Clarkson University in New York in 1967. He became chairman of the board and CEO of the Kruger in 1988.
The son of Gene Kruger and grandson of founder Joseph Kruger, Kruger II played a central role in modernizing and diversifying the company. He integrated new technologies in his manufacturing facilities and expanded production activities in Canada and internationally. The Kruger Group is one of the leading private companies in Canada's paper industry today.
Distinctions
1987 — Honorary Doctorate from Clarkson University 1994 — Knight of the National Order of Quebec 1996 — Honorary Doctorate from Memorial University of Newfoundland 1998 — Member of the Order of Canada 1998 — Honorary Doctorate from the University of Sherbrooke 2002 — Honorary Doctorate from the University of Quebec at Trois-Rivières 2005 — Honorary Doctorate from Laval University 2016 — Medal of Honour from the National Assembly of Quebec 2020 — Commander of the Order of Montreal
Personal life Kruger II has two children, Sarah and Gene, who serve on the board of directors of the family business. In 2025, his fortune is estimated at 1.9 billion Canadian dollars.
References