Arthur Blank, a self-made billionaire and co-founder of The Home Depot, stands as one of the most influential business minds in America. With a net worth of approximately $7.5 billion as of 2025, according to Forbes, Blank’s financial empire stretches far beyond retail. His investments in professional sports, real estate, philanthropy, and ranching have only expanded his influence.
Born on September 27, 1942, in Flushing, New York, Arthur Blank is now 82 years old. He grew up in a modest household, raised by his mother after the death of his father. Blank graduated from Babson College with a degree in business administration and began climbing the corporate ladder early in his career. But the pivotal moment came in 1978, when he and Bernie Marcus were fired from their jobs at Handy Dan, a California-based home improvement chain.
The Home Depot Revolution
Rather than letting that setback define them, Blank and Marcus teamed up to create something revolutionary—a big-box home improvement store that prioritized customer service and DIY support. That vision became The Home Depot, founded in 1978. The concept took off rapidly, and within a decade, the company had gone public and was reshaping how Americans approached home improvement.
Today, The Home Depot is the largest home improvement retailer in the United States, with over 2,000 locations and more than 400,000 employees. Its reach extends internationally as well, cementing its position as a global retail powerhouse.
Although Arthur Blank stepped down as co-chairman of The Home Depot in 2001, his legacy remains deeply embedded in the company’s culture and success. His departure was not a retirement but rather a pivot to other ambitious ventures.
Expanding the Brand: Atlanta Falcons and United FC
In 2002, Blank purchased the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons for $545 million—a move that raised eyebrows at the time. However, the investment proved visionary. The team’s current estimated value has soared to $1.8 billion, according to Forbes, reflecting not only the growth of the NFL but also Blank’s keen business acumen.
Never one to rest on his laurels, Blank brought Major League Soccer to Atlanta in 2017 with the founding of Atlanta United FC. The team quickly became one of the most successful and well-supported franchises in MLS history, both in terms of attendance and performance. They claimed the MLS Cup in just their second season.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium: A Monument to Modern Sports
Blank’s commitment to the city of Atlanta is also visible in the form of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, a $1.5 billion project that opened in 2017. The stadium serves as the home for both the Falcons and Atlanta United, and it hosted the 2019 Super Bowl. Known for its futuristic design and retractable roof, the stadium is a centerpiece for Atlanta’s downtown and a symbol of Blank’s lasting imprint on the city.
Business Ventures and Philanthropy
Blank’s financial reach doesn’t end with sports. He owns the PGA TOUR Superstore chain, a growing retail leader in golf equipment and apparel. Additionally, Blank has invested in hospitality and land, owning three Montana ranches: Mountain Sky Guest Ranch, West Creek Ranch, and Paradise Valley Ranch. These properties combine eco-conscious tourism with breathtaking landscapes and luxury experiences.
Blank is also the author of the 2020 best-selling business book Good Company, which outlines the values-driven principles that guided his leadership across multiple industries. In the book, he emphasizes how compassion, integrity, and innovation are not just compatible with success—they are essential to it.
Through the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, Blank has contributed more than $113 million to charitable causes and community development projects. His philanthropic interests include education, youth development, environmental conservation, and support for underserved communities. His foundation continues to play a key role in shaping resilient and inclusive neighborhoods.
Family and Personal Life
Arthur Blank is a father of six children and has been married multiple times. His personal life, while largely private, has often highlighted his devotion to family. Despite his public role in business and sports, Blank is known for staying grounded and prioritizing values over flash.
Now in his early eighties, Blank continues to lead with vigor. He remains deeply involved in the operations of AMB Group LLC, his parent company that oversees his sports teams, philanthropic work, and business ventures. His vision continues to evolve, but the core principles he adopted decades ago remain unchanged.
A Legacy That Transcends Business
Arthur Blank’s story is not simply one of financial success; it is a lesson in resilience, community investment, and visionary leadership. From being fired to founding a multi-billion-dollar company, from transforming Atlanta’s sports scene to giving back through major philanthropic initiatives, Blank exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose.
As his portfolio grows and his impact deepens, Blank’s net worth of $7.5 billion is just one measure of a life dedicated to innovation, generosity, and long-term value.
