Early Life
Diane Marie Smith was born on March 2, 1947, in Mondovi, Wisconsin, and raised in Osseo, Wisconsin, as one of nine sisters on a dairy farm. She became a teenage mother at 17. Despite challenges, she graduated from Osseo-Fairchild High School in 1965. Early on, she demonstrated a drive for success and a desire to build a career.
Rise to Success
Hendricks started her career by selling custom-built homes. She met roofing contractor Ken Hendricks, and they married in 1975. Together, they began fixing up and renting properties, eventually moving into industrial properties. In 1982, they co-founded ABC Supply. The company grew from a single store to become the largest roofing and vinyl siding wholesale distributor in the United States. After Ken's death in 2007, Diane took over as chair.
Key Business Strategies
Diane Hendricks led ABC Supply through significant acquisitions, including Bradco Supply in 2010 and L&W Supply in 2016, which bolstered the company’s position. These strategic moves helped ABC Supply grow to over 900 locations and achieve $20.7 billion in revenue in 2024. She has also focused on customer service and employee-first practices.
Philanthropy
Hendricks is involved in philanthropic endeavors, particularly in Beloit, Wisconsin, through the Hendricks Family Foundation, which supports education, workforce development, and community vitality. Her contributions have revitalized parts of Beloit, with investments in infrastructure and local businesses.