The recent involvement of Marie Jedlickova, a 28-year-old model and former beauty pageant contestant, in promotional materials for the Royal Mail has drawn attention, particularly given her relationship with the company’s owner, billionaire Daniel Kretinsky. Jedlickova, who appeared in a Mother’s Day advertisement and a Christmas postal service video, was previously engaged to Max Talich. The circumstances surrounding her introduction to Kretinsky and the subsequent end of her engagement have become a focal point of discussion.
Jedlickova, who was a finalist in the Miss Czech Republic contest in 2023, reportedly met Kretinsky, the 51-year-old Czech businessman and owner of the Royal Mail’s parent company, shortly after the pageant. Kretinsky, whose net worth is estimated at over £8 billion, is known for his significant business dealings and is sometimes referred to as the “Czech Sphinx” due to his enigmatic public persona.
The relationship between Kretinsky and Jedlickova, who is 23 years his junior, has been a subject of public interest. Kretinsky’s previous long-term partner was Ana Kellnerova, the daughter of his late business partner Petr Kellner, whom he was reportedly in a relationship with when she was in her early twenties and he was in his forties. Reports suggest Kretinsky invited Jedlickova and other beauty pageant contestants to a private island in the Maldives, in which he holds a stake.
Last year, Jedlickova ended her engagement to Max Talich, 26, who described the separation as “brutal” and without warning. Following the breakup, she returned to Prague and reportedly began a relationship with Kretinsky. Talich, who has a master’s degree from Exeter University, expressed surprise at the turn of events, noting the vast difference in wealth and status between his former fiancée and Kretinsky.
A source close to Kretinsky has stated that Jedlickova did not receive any payment for her appearances in the Royal Mail advertisements and is not on the company’s payroll. However, her involvement has raised questions, particularly in light of the ongoing scrutiny of Kretinsky’s stewardship of the Royal Mail.
Daniel Kretinsky’s Business Acumen and Royal Mail Takeover
Daniel Kretinsky has built a substantial business empire through his investment company, EPH. His ventures span various sectors, including energy, retail, media, and sports. He is also set to acquire a controlling stake in West Ham United Football Club, adding to his ownership of Sparta Prague, his homeland’s most prominent football team.
The acquisition of the Royal Mail, a 500-year-old postal service, by Kretinsky’s company in a £3.6 billion takeover in 2024, has been a significant point of discussion. The British Government reportedly intervened, taking the rare step of “calling in” the takeover for a rigorous national security investigation. Ultimately, the acquisition was permitted with the condition that the government retains a “golden share,” allowing it to veto key operational decisions.
Kretinsky’s business strategy often involves acquiring struggling or seemingly outdated companies, with the aim of reviving and improving them. This approach, however, has faced criticism regarding the Royal Mail’s performance since his takeover. Reports indicate a significant increase in late deliveries for both first and second-class mail, and concerns have been raised by employees about the prioritization of the profitable parcel service over traditional letter delivery, alongside rising stamp prices.
During a session with the Commons business and trade committee, Kretinsky acknowledged the challenges, expressing regret for the service’s performance and pledging a £500 million investment in improvements over the next five years. He highlighted the complexity and cost involved in providing next-day letter delivery across the UK.
Background and Early Life
Born in Brno, Czechoslovakia, in 1975, Daniel Kretinsky’s upbringing was influenced by his parents’ divorce and his mother’s remarriage to art photographer Vladimir Zidlicky. His stepfather described him as an energetic and loyal child with a strong curiosity.
Kretinsky’s early education showed a talent for writing, but his interests soon shifted towards business. With financial support from his stepfather, he began making investments in the burgeoning post-Communist Czech economy. By the age of 17, he was advising families on investments in newly privatized companies, and by 18, he was actively trading on the Prague stock exchange.
His career trajectory accelerated after joining an investment firm and collaborating with Petr Kellner, a prominent figure in Czech privatization. Together, they established EPH, which became the foundation of Kretinsky’s vast business interests. The collapse of Communism created an environment ripe for opportunistic ventures, and Kretinsky was well-positioned to capitalize on these changes.
Personal Life and Relationships
Kretinsky’s personal life has also garnered attention. His relationship with Marie Jedlickova, marked by a significant age difference, has been a topic of conversation. Jedlickova’s former fiancé, Max Talich, has spoken about the abrupt end of their engagement and his surprise at her subsequent relationship with the billionaire.
Amelia Talich, Max’s mother, who had a close relationship with Jedlickova, expressed surprise at the pairing, noting the perceived disparity in their interests and intellectual focus. Despite the circumstances, both Max and Amelia Talich maintain a degree of fondness for Jedlickova and express concern for her future.
Kretinsky’s lifestyle is characterized by considerable wealth, with reported assets including a French chateau, a significant diamond necklace, and properties in Paris, Prague, and London. His substantial art collection and ownership of a superyacht further underscore his affluent status.
The narrative surrounding Kretinsky, Jedlickova, and the Royal Mail highlights the intersection of high finance, personal relationships, and the management of a national institution. While Kretinsky is recognized for his business acumen and ability to revive companies, the operational challenges at the Royal Mail and the personal dynamics involved continue to be subjects of public and media interest.
