Virgin is a leading international investment group and one of the world's most recognized and respected brands. Conceived in 1970 by Richard Branson, the Virgin Group has gone on to grow successful businesses in sectors ranging from mobile telephony, travel and financial services, to leisure, music, holidays and health and wellness. Across its companies, Virgin employs approximately 50,000 people in 34 countries. Its global branded revenues in 2011 were around £13 billion ($21 billion).