Diane Hendricks, Hendricks Commercial Properties

Transform 815: Billionaire Diane Hendricks remains committed to downtown Beloit, Wisconsin

By Rebecca Rose
Staff writer
@beckyjoyrose

Driving through downtown Beloit, Wisconsin, it’s hard not to see the impact Diane Hendricks has had.

Featured on Forbes’ June cover, which featured the richest self-made women, Hendricks currently has a net worth of $4.3 billion, according to Forbes. She is the co-founder and chairwoman of Beloit-based ABC Supply Co., a wholesale distributor of roofing and siding materials, tools and supplies. She also is chairwoman of the board for Hendricks Holding Co. Inc., and chairwoman of Hendricks Commercial Properties.

“The Hendricks businesses are whole-heartedly dedicated to rebuilding Beloit, evidenced by both the time and money they have invested in the community. The improvements made in the last few years have only scratched the surface of what can be done to rebuild the city,” said Aimee Thurner, interim executive director for the Greater Beloit Chamber of Commerce.

Hendricks declined an interview for this story.

Her investments in downtown Beloit include the Phoenix building, a mixed-use commercial/luxury apartment building; The Ironworks Hotel; and the Ironworks Campus, a mixed-use property that is home to several different businesses.

“Not only have the revitalization projects created a more vibrant and inviting downtown for residents and guests, but they have aided immensely in job creation as well. Over 600 people are employed on the Ironworks Campus alone,” Thurner said. “More and more people are visiting Beloit for dining and shopping experiences, some of whom haven’t visited in years.”

According to the Hendricks Commercial Properties website, the company has evolved into a national commercial real estate firm with properties located in 33 states. In August, Hendricks was named to President Donald Trump’s economic advisory team. Despite her national successes, however, she remains rooted in Beloit.

“For over 40 years we have worked in the city of Beloit. It’s the city we learned to call home. We founded our business here and made lifelong friends,” said Hendricks on the website for Hendricks Commercial Properties. “I will continue that commitment to our community.”

Rebecca Rose: 815-987-1379; rrose@rrstar.com; @beckyjoyrose

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