Miele patriarch Peter Christian Zinkann dies at 98

Peter Christian Zinkann, the long-time managing partner of the household appliances manufacturer Miele, has died at the age of 98. He passed away on October 19, 2026.

Zinkann joined the Gütersloh-based family company in 1957 and led it for over four decades alongside business partner Rudolf Miele. During his tenure, he was credited with driving the company toward global leadership through significant technical innovations, including the introduction of electronically controlled dryers, dishwashers with cutlery drawers, and the patented Miele drum.

A mechanical engineer by training, Zinkann held over 130 patents and was recognized as a prominent entrepreneur and an honorary citizen of Gütersloh. He is succeeded in the company's leadership by his son, Dr. Reinhard Zinkann.