Ronald G. Wanek

Ronald G. Wanek (born 1941) is an American billionaire businessman, and the founder and chairman of Ashley Furniture Industries.

Ronald G. Wanek
Born1941 (age 81–82)
NationalityAmerican
Occupation(s)Founder and chairman, Ashley Furniture Industries
SpouseJoyce A. Wanek
Children3 including Todd R. Wanek

Early life

Wanek grew up on a dairy farm in Minnesota, where his grandfather and great uncle built furniture as a hobby.[1]

Career

Wanek started his first manufacturing business, Arcadia Furniture, in 1970 with a loan from his father and money he got from selling his home.[1]

In 1976, Wanek purchased Ashley Furniture, a company that had been operating since the 1940s.[1] After taking control of the company, Wanek established overseas manufacturing and distribution capabilities to make the business more competitive.[2]

In 2012, Wanek, "a prominent Republican donor", gave $1 million towards hosting Tampa's Republican National Convention.[3]

Personal life

He is married to Joyce; they have three children and live in St. Petersburg, Florida.[4][3] His son Todd R. Wanek is the CEO of Ashley Furniture.[4]

In 1998, Wanek and his wife Joyce started the Ronald & Joyce Wanek Foundation. The foundation donates to causes including children and families charities, medical research, education, arts and U.S. armed forces.[2]

References
  1. "Ronald Wanek". Forbes. Retrieved 2021-09-03.
  2. "Ron Wanek: Pursuing excellence". Furniture Today. 2020-12-23. Retrieved 2021-09-03.
  3. "Snell Isle mansion sells for $8.4 million, highest price since 2011". tampabay.com. 15 July 2013. Retrieved 28 February 2018.
  4. "Ronald Wanek". Forbes. Retrieved 28 February 2019.


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