The Weston family, which owns a controlling stake in Primark, were the biggest risers in The Sunday Times’ Rich List as their wealth shot up by £3.7bn in one year.

The Weston family, who own Primark, were the big winners inthis year's Rich List

Galen and George Weston and their family rose from the 11th spot in the Rich List to third as their fortune increased to £11bn as Primark’s business goes from strength to strength.

Much of the family wealth derives from the George Weston operation in Canada, which includes the Loblaw supermarket chain, Weston Foods and the newly acquired Shoppers Drug Mart.

The Westons also own Selfridges and Galen Weston’s daughter, Alannah, is creative director at the upmarket department store.

Other retailers to feature near the top of the Rich List included Sports Direct owner Mike Ashley and Arcadia’s Sir Philip Green, who both tied in 22nd place.

Ashley recorded a £250m drop in his wealth to £3.5bn, while Sir Philip and Lady Green’s wealth fell by £380m to £3.5bn, according to the Rich List.

Retail rich list

Earlier this month Retail Week released a list of the industry’s wealthiest 100.

See who made the cut here

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