Hans Friderichs

Hans Friderichs (16 October 1931 – 16 November 2025) was a German politician who served as the minister of economy from 1972 to 1977. He was also a jurist and businessman.

Early life and education Friderichs was born in Wittlich on 16 October 1931. He received a bachelor's degree in law and political science and also held a PhD.

Career

Friderichs was a member and leader of the Free Democrats. Until 1964 he was the deputy chairman of the party in North Rhine-Westphalia and then he became the chairman. He was the minister of economy from 15 December 1972 to 7 October 1977. He first served in the cabinet led by Prime Minister Willy Brandt.

After leaving office, Friderichs worked in various capacities at different firms and institutions, including Adidas AG. Until March 1985, he served as the head of the bank. He was the deputy chairman of the supervisory board of Adidas AG until 2007. On 7 November 2007, he was appointed chairman of the board and served in the post until 2009.

Controversy In the course of criminal proceedings opened following the revelation of the notorious Flick affair, Friderichs, together with other eminent German politicians, was convicted for tax evasion and received a monetary penalty in 1985.

Death Friderichs died on 16 November 2025, at the age of 94.

Rewards Decoration of Honour for Services to the Republic of Austria (1977) Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany (1978) Order of Merit of Rhineland-Palatinate (2016)