The Florists son
who engineered
the World’s voice
Visionary.
Investor.
Mentor.
THOMAS RIEDEL.
I 
love to create an environment 
where imagination 
enthusiasm 
and entrepreneurship 
all come together to create new businesses with game changing ideas.
THOMAS.
Thomas Riedel is a Wuppertal-based entrepreneur and innovator and the founder, 100% shareholder, and CEO of the Riedel Group, whose portfolio includes global leading entertainment technology companies such as Riedel Communications and ARRI. His innovative spirit and passion have made him a pioneer and storyteller in the entertainment technology industry, where he has been shaping and redefining sports and entertainment formats with courage and creativity for almost four decades. In addition to his CEO duties, Thomas Riedel personally participates in numerous projects around the world as an investor, advisor, and driver of digital transformation
Expanding the vision
After years of innovation in live communication and production technology, acquisition of the ARRI Group marked the beginning of a new era for Riedel. The partnership combines deep engineering heritage with a forward-looking vision for the future of media and entertainment. It stands as a milestone in Thomas Riedel’s journey of connecting people, productions, and ideas worldwide.
Exclusive Industry Engagements
Thomas Riedel is a regular attendee at select events in the worlds of sports, media, and business. Events such as the DFL General Assembly, the OMR Sports Night, the SPOBIS Top 100, and the Handelsblatt Hall of Fame for Family Businesses bring together leading figures and decision-makers from a wide range of industries. With his entrepreneurial experience and expertise, Thomas Riedel is a valued conversation partner within these networks.
Investments
As both an entrepreneur and an investor, Thomas Riedel is actively involved in companies and projects with long-term growth potential, particularly in the fields of technology, digitalization, and sports. In addition to supporting innovative sports tech startups, he makes targeted investments with the aim of creating sustainable momentum for the future. A notable example is the acquisition of the internet service provider tal.de in 2022. With this investment, he did not only strengthened a local technology provider but also sent a clear signal regarding the digital future of Wuppertal as a business hub.
VISIONARY. INVESTOR. MENTOR.
VISIONARY. INVESTOR. MENTOR.
VISIONARY. INVESTOR. MENTOR.
VISIONARY. INVESTOR. MENTOR.
VISIONARY. INVESTOR. MENTOR.
VISIONARY. INVESTOR. MENTOR.
The Legacy.
How it started.
2020s
New Formats and Investments in the Future
Thomas Riedel is actively shaping the future of sports.As a co-founder of circle-o, he develops innovative 360° broadcast concepts, including for the America’s Cup.He is a partner in Sportdeutschland.TV, invests in smart sports technologies, and founded the first German SailGP team – the “Formula 1 on the water.” He also supports his home region through digital initiatives such as the acquisition of tal.de.
2010s
Visionary, Investor, Pioneer
Thomas Riedel is named “Entrepreneur of the Year” as his company celebrates its 30th anniversary. With the Bolero system, Riedel sets new technological standards. At the same time, Thomas is active as an investor and mentor, actively driving digitalization in sports. Another milestone: the Emmy for the spectacular Red Bull Stratos project, which breaks several world records.
2000s
Technology Leader from Wuppertal
Riedel becomes an established name in the industry.With the Artist Intercom and MediorNet systems, the company revolutionizes broadcast and event technology. Riedel wins two Emmy Awards for its production of the Red Bull Air Race.
1990s
From a garage into the international technology industry
What began as a garage startup grew rapidly. In 1992, Riedel launched its first product, the RiFace – an innovative interface between radio and intercom systems. The international breakthrough is not long in coming deployment at the 1994 Winter Olympics in Lillehammer, entry into Formula 1 with McLaren, and the first major projects with FIFA and ORF.
1980s
From Young Entertainer to Entrepreneur
Whether as a magician, DJ, or host—Thomas Riedel explored his interests and lived out his passion for entertainment. This curiosity eventually led him to entrepreneurship: He began his career with a small radio equipment rental business and founded his own company – Riedel Communications – in Wuppertal in 1987.
1970s
First Steps
The foundation of his career was laid during his childhood. Working in his parents’ flower shop, Thomas gained his first experience and developed a keen sense of what customer service means.
1960s
Roots in Wuppertal
Born and raised in Wuppertal: To this day, Thomas Riedel remains deeply connected to his hometown. Not only are his personal roots there, but also his understanding of entrepreneurship and innovation.
The Footprints.
Awards
Lorem Ipsum dolor si Amet
SPORTS EMMY
Engineering, Science & Technology
Red Bull Air Race broadcast
2009 & 2010
SPORTS EMMY
Engineering, Science & Technology
Red Bull Air Race broadcast
2009 & 2010
PRESS
Keine Formel 1 ohne Technik aus Wuppertal – WZ
Keine Formel 1 ohne Technik aus Wuppertal – WZ
Technik aus Wuppertal: Für die Formel 1 unverzichtbar, Hollywood einen Emmy wert – Wirtschaftwoche
Technik aus Wuppertal: Für die Formel 1 unverzichtbar, Hollywood einen Emmy wert – Wirtschaftwoche
Durchbruch dank Tiefkühltruhe – WAZ