Built from Scratch: How a Couple of Regular Guys Grew the Home Depot from Nothing to $30 Billion

by Arthur Blank and Bernie Marcus

Book Overview

Arthur Blank and Bernie Marcus were both fired in 1978 by corporate raider Sandy Sigiloff. Blank, a CPA, and Marcus, an ex-pharmacist, were devastated. Bernie, heartbroken and virtually broke, fell into a deep funk. Arthur considered becoming a private CPA. Both thought a former associate was crazy when he told them: "You've just been hit in the ass by a golden horseshoe".

They proved him right. Blank and Marcus both recovered from their professional...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0812933788
• ISBN13: 9780812933789
• Release Date: July 2001
• Publisher: Crown Publishing Group (NY)
• Length: 352 Pages
• Weight: 0.89 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 6.0" x 9.1"

Customer Reviews

This business truly started as a dream

These two gentlemen who started The Home Depot had been executives at another home center company, but when they were fired and a friend pushed them to start Home Depot, they truly had nothing, but an idea, a dream. They really had no money, and had to go out and find it. For anyone who has ever had to do that to start your own business, believe me it ain't easy! I know I did it!. Read this story, you won't be sorry!

a great business story

a wonderful story for anyone interested in reading about watching a company grow small to big .

Great learning tool for any business

I began reading this book out of mild interest and found a number of lessons that I could use in my career as the trainer for a large Canadian pet organization. A great read and a great learning tool for all, not just those in the home improvement field.

Just like HD, this book is a huge success

HD understands what low cost, customer service really means. After reading this book if you don't become a shareholder then I question your investment strategy.

Excellent prespective on relationships and ethics in busines

This book is a winner! Practical views on business operations from two very successful businessmen.