Clue 1 · The Basics
U.S. retail company · large-cap · listed on the NYSE · headquartered in North Carolina.
Clue 2 · The Numbers
Annual revenue of roughly $85 billion and over 1,700 stores across the U.S. — each one roughly the size of a small aircraft hangar.
Clue 3 · The History
Started in 1946 as a small hardware store in North Wilkesboro, NC, it grew into a warehouse-format giant that essentially invented the modern home improvement superstore concept alongside one very famous rival.
Clue 4 · The Secret
Despite its DIY reputation, the company quietly earns billions from professional contractors and has been aggressively courting the Pro customer to steal share from its bigger orange competitor.
Clue 5 · The Lore
Every spring, the parking lot becomes a mulch and garden center that practically qualifies as a separate store, and the company sells enough lumber annually to rebuild a small country.
Clue 6 · The Giveaway
The blue apron — not the meal kit company — belongs to the employees here, where weekend warriors go to rent a wet saw, buy a refrigerator, and leave having spent $400 more than planned.