Arthur Blank’s $7 Billion Empire: Meet The Man Behind Home Depot and Atlanta’s Sports

Arthur Blank is a name associated with success, vision, and philanthropy. At 82 years old in 2025, Blank has built a fortune estimated at $7 billion, making him one of the wealthiest individuals in Georgia. Known as the co-founder of Home Depot, he revolutionized the home improvement industry, setting the foundation for a retail empire. Beyond that, his passion for sports led him to become the owner of the NFL’s Atlanta Falcons and MLS’s Atlanta United, creating a lasting legacy in professional sports. But his impact goes far beyond business—Blank is a dedicated philanthropist, a father of six, and a man committed to giving back to the world.

Early Life and Education: From Queens to Corporate Leadership

Arthur Blank was born on September 27, 1942, in Queens, New York, to Jewish parents Molly and Max Blank. He grew up in a working-class household alongside his older brother, Michael. His mother played a key role in shaping his values, while his father’s work ethic influenced his early aspirations.

After attending Stuyvesant High School in Manhattan, Blank enrolled at Babson College, where he graduated in 1963. The business school provided him with the skills and knowledge that would later define his career. But his path to success wasn’t immediate—he worked his way up through various finance and retail positions before launching one of the most successful companies in American history.

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The Road to Home Depot: Building a Retail Giant

Blank’s career started in accounting, working for Arthur Young and Company before transitioning to the Daylin Corporation. There, he climbed the ranks to oversee Elliott’s Drug Stores and Stripe Discount Stores. Eventually, he moved to Handy Dan Home Improvement Centers, where he served as vice president alongside Bernard Marcus, who was CEO.

In a surprising turn of events, both Blank and Marcus were fired from Handy Dan in 1978 due to an internal power struggle. Instead of seeing it as a setback, they turned it into an opportunity. Together with Ron Brill and Pat Farrah, they co-founded Home Depot in 1979, securing initial funding with the help of investment banker Ken Langone.

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The concept was revolutionary—offering large-scale, warehouse-style home improvement stores that catered to DIYers and professionals alike. Home Depot quickly expanded, going public in 1981 and joining the New York Stock Exchange in 1984. By 1989, it had overtaken Lowe’s as the leading home improvement chain in the country.

Blank served as Home Depot’s president for 19 years before taking over as CEO. He eventually retired from the company in 2001, leaving behind a business that would become a household name worldwide.

Sports Ownership: Elevating Atlanta’s Presence in Professional Sports

After stepping down from Home Depot, Blank turned his attention to professional sports. In 2002, he purchased the Atlanta Falcons from Taylor Smith, marking the beginning of his influential role in the sports world. His leadership brought new energy to the franchise, leading to major investments in infrastructure, player development, and fan engagement.

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Two years later, Blank expanded his portfolio by acquiring the Arena Football League’s Georgia Force and relocating the team to Atlanta. But his most notable sports venture came in 2014 when he founded Atlanta United FC, the city’s first MLS team.

Under Blank’s ownership, Atlanta United quickly became one of the most successful franchises in Major League Soccer, winning the MLS Cup in 2018. The team plays at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, which it shares with the Falcons—another testament to Blank’s vision for uniting sports in Atlanta.

Today, he remains deeply involved in both teams through AMB Group, LLC, the parent company overseeing his sports holdings.

A Heart for Philanthropy: Giving Back to the Community

Beyond business and sports, Blank is widely recognized for his philanthropic efforts. He is the chairman of The Arthur Blank Family Foundation, which has donated millions to causes ranging from education and healthcare to social justice and environmental conservation.

One of his most notable contributions came in 2020 when he pledged $200 million to the construction of a new Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta hospital. The facility, set to open in 2025, will bear his name, solidifying his commitment to improving healthcare for children.

Blank is also a signatory of The Giving Pledge, a commitment by billionaires to donate at least half of their wealth to charitable causes. His dedication to giving back sets him apart from many other business moguls, demonstrating that success is not just about financial gain—it’s about making a lasting impact.

Personal Life: Family, Marriages, and Luxury Properties

Despite his immense success, Blank has experienced his fair share of personal ups and downs. He has been married and divorced multiple times. His first marriage to philanthropist Diana Latow resulted in three children: Kenny, Dena, and Danielle. The couple divorced in 1993. In 1995, Blank married Stephanie Wray, with whom he had three more children: Joshua, Max, and Kylie. They later divorced in 2014. His third marriage to Angela Macuga, whom he wed in 2016, also ended in divorce in 2019.

In addition to his bustling family life, Blank owns several high-end properties, including Mountain Sky Guest Ranch and West Creek Ranch near Yellowstone National Park in Montana. He also owns numerous PGA TOUR Superstores, further diversifying his business interests.

Arthur Blank’s Lasting Legacy

Arthur Blank’s life story is one of resilience, innovation, and generosity. From co-founding Home Depot and turning it into a multi-billion dollar empire to transforming Atlanta’s sports scene, he has consistently demonstrated his ability to lead and inspire.

At 82 years old, Blank remains an active force in business and philanthropy. Whether it’s through his ownership of the Falcons and Atlanta United, his contributions to healthcare, or his commitment to giving back, his influence will continue to shape industries and communities for years to come.

Arthur Blank’s story is proof that success is about more than wealth—it’s about vision, dedication, and the impact one leaves behind. And with a net worth of $7 billion, he has the resources to continue making a difference long into the future.