Meet woman who once sold machines, started selling undergarments at 27, became a billionaire by 41, her net worth is Rs…, she is from..
Success Story: A dream doesn’t become reality through magic; it takes sweat, determination, and hard work. The story of Sara Blakely is an inspiration for those who want to taste success. With just $5,000 at the age of 27, she leaped into entrepreneurship. By the time she reached 41, Blakely had built a billion-dollar company and secured a place on the list of the world’s wealthiest individuals. Her story exemplifies the transformative power of hard work and resilience.
Sara Blakely is the founder and part owner of the shapewear brand Spanx, which sells undergarments, leggings, and apparel. According to Forbes, Sara Blakely’s net worth is estimated to be $1.1 billion. Sara Blakely has earned the 24th spot on Forbes’ America’s Richest Self-Made Women list.
Blakely launched Spanx in 1998 at the age of 27, using her savings of $5,000 to start the business. Born in 1971, Blakely likely did not anticipate the incredible success her company would achieve in its very first year. Spanx revolutionized the shapewear industry and became a global sensation, earning Blakely a place among the world’s most successful self-made entrepreneurs.
In its first year (1999), Spanx generated $4 million in sales. The brand’s popularity skyrocketed when Oprah Winfrey, a famous American host and TV producer, added Spanx to her wardrobe, creating a media frenzy. As a result, the company’s sales grew rapidly.
In 2021, Blackstone, one of the world’s largest asset management firms, took notice of Spanx and made a significant offer. They proposed purchasing a majority stake in the company for $1.2 billion (approximately ₹9,000 crore). This was an incredible opportunity for Sara Blakely, who could not resist the offer, marking a pivotal moment in the company’s success.