Early Life
Maggie Hardy was born on December 7, 1965, in Belle Vernon, Pennsylvania, as the fifth of five children. Her father, Joseph A. Hardy III, founded 84 Lumber Company in 1956. She grew up in a close-knit family, developing a strong relationship with her father and learning about the family business from a young age. She attended West Virginia University for two years before joining the family business in 1987.
Rise to Success
In 1992, at the age of 26, Maggie Hardy took over as president and CEO of 84 Lumber. Within a year, the company's sales reached $1 billion. Her leadership helped 84 Lumber grow, exceeding $2 billion in annual sales in 2002. Hardy also played a pivotal role in developing Nemacolin Woodlands into a luxurious resort. In 2024, 84 Lumber's revenue was approximately $8 billion.
Key Business Strategies
Maggie Hardy focused on the professional market when taking over 84 Lumber. She expanded the company, opening new stores and manufacturing facilities. She also implemented strategic decisions during economic downturns, such as the 2009 housing market crash, preventing bankruptcy through personal investments and strategic store closures. 84 Lumber has also expanded its services with kitchen and bath design studios.
Philanthropy
84 Lumber has a charitable program called Building Hope, which supports local, regional, and national charitable organizations. In 2023, 84 Lumber's total charitable donations were over $1 million. 84 Lumber also has an ongoing partnership with the Fisher House Foundation.