Depot | GENUINE · VERSION |
They wanted to build a "depot"—a cavernous, warehouse-style, 60,000-square-foot behemoth that made other hardware stores look like toy shops. They wanted sawdust on the floor, skid marks, and prices so low they’d turn the industry upside down.
But sitting in a California coffee shop, they hadn't seen an end; they saw a gap. Tell the story of , who went from
Tell the story of , who went from refugee to Regional Delivery Manager. Focus on the early financial struggles with Ken Langone. Which angle interests you most? Behind the Apron – Kevin's Story | The Home Depot Behind the Apron – Kevin's Story | The
The doors opened on June 22, 1979. The shelves were stocked with 25,000 different products, from lumber to light fixtures. But the real secret weapon wasn't the inventory—it was the orange apron. They hired passionate plumbers, electricians, and carpenters to walk customers through DIY projects, not just sell them tools. Opening day was… quiet. "It’s not just a store
The first few days, customers walked in, looked at the massive, warehouse-style space, and walked right out, confused. They were used to small, dusty hardware corners. "We have to teach them, Artie," Bernie said.
Add more from the Reddit thread regarding crazy customer interactions.
"It’s not just a store, it’s a mission, Artie," Bernie said, pacing in front of the cavernous, newly renovated "Treasure Island" building in Atlanta.
