Barbara Rentler started working for Ross Stores in 1986, only four years after the discount clothing company was founded. As of 2018, Ross is the biggest discount retailer in the country, operating in 37 states as well as Guam. Before working in management positions, Rentler started out in merchandising. In 2001, she moved up to the Senior Vice President and General Merchandise Manager position. This began her journey through various upper-level management positions until she was named CEO in 2014, upon the retirement of Michael Balmuth.
Forbes named Rentler to its 2019 list of America’s Most Innovative Leaders – she was the only woman on the list of 100 individuals that year. While acquiring accolades and running a massive corporation, she is known for shying away from public attention. When she appeared in a Fortune magazine article, she chose not to submit a photo for them to run alongside the write-up. Despite her accomplishments, she’s most comfortable enjoying a low profile and remaining out of the spotlight.
In 2018, Rentler reportedly owned almost half a million shares of Ross stock, giving her an estimated wealth of $69.9 million. Retail stores took a massive hit during the pandemic as people turned to online shopping instead of risking infection by battling crowds in brick and mortar stores. However, as things open back up, retail stores are seeing a significant revival for the first time in years. This year, Ross will build 45 new Ross Stores and 20 new dd’s DISCOUNTS stores, which have a similar concept to Ross but with even deeper price cuts.
Rentler says the expansion plans will give Ross Stores about 1,860 total retail spaces. She also stated that they are back to their pre-pandemic plan of opening up at least 100 stores a year, with the end goal of reaching 3,000 stores. Many retailers were forced to permanently shutter their businesses in the wake of COVID-19, but Ross is in the company of other discount chains, like T.J. Maxx, Dollar General, Home Goods, and major competitor Burlington, who plan on expanding throughout 2022.