How Warren Buffett turned Berkshire Hathaway into a quirky business empire
Warren Buffett’s Berkshire Hathaway has built a vast business empire over decades. The conglomerate now spans insurance, railroads, food brands, and even plush toys. Its annual meetings in Omaha draw global attention, blending finance with playful branding.
Buffett’s investment journey began with smaller acquisitions, like See’s Candies in 1972—a personal favourite of his. By 2001, Berkshire Hathaway had bought Fruit of the Loom, leading to novelty items such as Buffett-themed boxers. A decade later, the firm teamed up with 3G Capital to purchase Heinz for $28 billion, later restructuring it into two public companies.
The conglomerate’s growth continued with high-profile deals. In 2022, Berkshire acquired Alleghany, adding Squishmallows to its portfolio. That same year, the brand introduced Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger plush toys at the Omaha event. Meanwhile, Berkshire-backed Brooks Running even featured Buffett’s image on shoe soles. Financially, Berkshire Hathaway’s reach is vast. As of Q3 2025, its top stock holdings included Apple (reduced by 74% but still worth $66.4 billion), Coca-Cola ($28.1 billion), and stakes in Kraft Heinz (27.5%). The company also expanded into tech with 17.8 million Alphabet shares. Wholly-owned subsidiaries now cover insurance, railroads like Burlington Northern Santa Fe, energy through MidAmerican, and retail, including the ‘Berkshire Bazaar of Bargains’—a shopping showcase for its products. Buffett’s playful side shines through his love of posing with mascots from Berkshire’s brands. The annual meeting remains a key event, mixing investment wisdom with quirky merchandise.
Berkshire Hathaway’s portfolio now stretches from candy and boxers to tech and railroads. The company’s mix of serious investments and lighthearted branding keeps it in the spotlight. With Buffett’s influence, the conglomerate continues to grow in unexpected ways.
