Gary Hoover (economist)

Gary Hoover is an American entrepreneur, author, and business historian, best known for founding the bookstore chain Bookstop, which later became Barnes & Noble Superstores. He also founded the business information company Hoover's (formerly The Reference Press), which provided profiles and information on companies and industries.

Hoover’s career has primarily focused on making business information more accessible. After selling Bookstop, he shifted his focus to Hoover's, aiming to create a comprehensive resource for business research. The company was eventually sold to Dun & Bradstreet.

He is also the author of several books on business and entrepreneurship, including "Hoover's Vision: Original Thinking for Business Success" and "The Art of Enterprise." His work often emphasizes the importance of understanding business history and the innovative strategies employed by successful companies. Hoover has been a vocal advocate for entrepreneurs and small businesses, emphasizing the role of innovation and customer service in building successful enterprises. He continues to write, speak, and consult on topics related to business and entrepreneurship.