Ever wondered how a small town can become the heart of a global industry? The story of Bob Shaw, the flooring magnate from Dalton, Georgia, is a testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and a deep-rooted commitment to community.
Dalton, Georgia, a name synonymous with carpet manufacturing, owes much of its prominence to pioneers like Bob Shaw. His journey, beginning with a modest investment and culminating in a multi-billion dollar empire, is a compelling narrative of entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering dedication. While Forbes lists other Georgia billionaires like Bernard Marcus of Home Depot ($8.6 billion) and Jim Kennedy of Cox Enterprises ($7.9 billion) in 2022, Shaw's impact extends beyond mere wealth; it's woven into the fabric of Dalton itself. His story isn't just about building a business; it's about building a legacy.
Bob Shaw: Bio, Career, and Professional Information | |
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Full Name | Robert E. "Bob" Shaw |
Date of Birth | August 18, 1931 (Age 93 as of May 2025) |
Place of Birth | Dalton, Georgia, USA |
Residence | Dalton, Georgia |
Other Names Used | R E Shaw, Robert Evans Shaw, Robert E Shaw |
Career & Business Ventures | |
Early Career | Started in 1946 at Star Dye, a commission dye company founded by his father, Clarence Shaw. |
CEO of Star Dye | Became CEO of Star Dye in 1958, jointly owned with his brother, J.C. Shaw. |
Founder of Shaw Industries | Established Shaw Industries in 1967 with an initial investment of $5,000. |
Shaw Industries Success | Grew Shaw Industries into the world's largest carpet manufacturer with over $6 billion in annual revenue and approximately 22,000 employees worldwide. Headquartered in Dalton, Georgia, and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway. |
Founder of Engineered Floors | Founded Engineered Floors in 2010 in Dalton, Georgia, after a successful career at Shaw Industries. |
Engineered Floors Innovation | Revolutionized the flooring industry with PureColor solution dyed fiber. |
Personal Life & Education | |
Family | Father of Chairman and CEO Robert (Bob) Shaw and former Chairman J.C. Shaw. His son and twin grandsons, Joe and Will Young, are employed at Engineered Floors. |
Education | Honorary Doctor of Business Administration degrees from Dalton State College on behalf of the University System of Georgia Board of Regents (May 14, 2024). |
Philanthropy | Known for his enduring friendship and support to Dalton State College and the Dalton community. |
Additional Information | |
Legacy | Carpet pioneer named to the NW Georgia Hall of Fame (March 10, 2018). |
Motto | "Pride in our past." |
Motivation | Driven to keep Dalton's place in the carpet industry. |
Related Links | Berkshire Hathaway Official Website |
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