David MacNeil Net Worth

What is David MacNeil's net worth?

David MacNeil is an American businessman and entrepreneur who has a net worth of $2 billion. David MacNeil earned his fortune as the founder and CEO of WeatherTech. He owns 100% of the firm. Starting with a small investment in the 1980s, MacNeil built WeatherTech into a manufacturing powerhouse worth hundreds of millions of dollars through his unwavering commitment to domestic manufacturing, innovative engineering, and strategic marketing. Beyond his business success, MacNeil is known for his passionate advocacy for American manufacturing, his extensive philanthropy focused on animal welfare and healthcare, and his remarkable collection of rare automobiles. His business philosophy of quality over cost-cutting has enabled him to successfully compete against overseas manufacturers while maintaining production in the United States, creating hundreds of American jobs in the process.

As we mentioned, David owns 100% of WeatherTech. The privately held company generates hundreds of millions in annual sales (over $700 million per year, according to reports)​. Based on its earnings, industry analysts have speculated WeatherTech's market value could be in the multi-billion-dollar range – on the order of $2.3–$2.5 billion if sold, given its roughly $220 million annual EBITDA and typical valuation multiples

David is also notable for paying $70 million for a Ferrari 250 GTO in 2018, setting the record for most expensive car purchase of all time.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born in 1959, David MacNeil developed an entrepreneurial spirit from an early age. After graduating from college, he began his career in the automotive industry working as a sales representative for AMG, the high-performance division of Mercedes-Benz. During this time, he noticed a significant gap in the market for high-quality automotive accessories, particularly floor mats.

In 1989, MacNeil took a bold step and invested his life savings of $50,000 to start his own business importing high-quality German-made car floor mats. His initial operation was modest, working out of his home in Clarendon Hills, Illinois. However, this humble beginning laid the foundation for what would become an American manufacturing success story.

Building WeatherTech

MacNeil's vision for WeatherTech went beyond simply importing products. He was determined to create superior automotive accessories manufactured entirely in the United States. By the mid-1990s, he began transitioning from importing to domestic manufacturing, developing proprietary materials and production techniques.

This pivot proved transformational. MacNeil invested heavily in state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Bolingbrook, Illinois, where he implemented advanced technologies and innovative production methods. His insistence on vertical integration—controlling every aspect of the manufacturing process—allowed WeatherTech to maintain exceptional quality standards while creating hundreds of American jobs.

The company expanded its product line beyond floor mats to include cargo liners, side window deflectors, car covers, and various other automotive accessories. Today, WeatherTech operates from a campus of facilities exceeding 1 million square feet and employs over 1,500 American workers.

Marketing Innovation and Growth

One of MacNeil's most notable business strategies has been his approach to marketing. While many companies shifted their advertising budgets to digital platforms, MacNeil made headlines by investing millions in Super Bowl commercials starting in 2014. These patriotic advertisements emphasized WeatherTech's commitment to American manufacturing and resonated strongly with consumers.

This bold marketing strategy, combined with the company's reputation for quality, helped WeatherTech achieve remarkable growth despite charging premium prices in a competitive market. The company now exports its American-made products to over 85 countries worldwide.

Salary

Reports dug up by Propublica revealed that in 2017, David paid himself $68 million.

$70 Million Ferrari Purchase

In 2018, MacNeil made international headlines when he purchased a 1963 Ferrari 250 GTO for $70 million, setting a world record for the most expensive car ever sold at the time. The rare Ferrari, one of only 36 ever built, represented the crown jewel in MacNeil's already impressive collection of vintage automobiles.

The purchase underscored not only MacNeil's personal passion for automobiles but also his status as one of the world's foremost car collectors. His collection includes numerous rare and historic vehicles, many of which have won prestigious awards at concours events around the world.

Real Estate

MacNeil maintains a residence in Illinois (where WeatherTech is headquartered) and primarily resides in Florida for business and tax purposes. His portfolio of high-end real estate underscores his billionaire status and lifestyle. Here are some notable examples:

Manalapan (Palm Beach), Florida: In March 2025, MacNeil went under contract to purchase a partially completed oceanfront estate in Manalapan for $55.5 million. The property, originally bought by Hamptons developer Joe Farrell for $32.5 million in 2024, was planned to be a contemporary estate with a 19,000-square-foot main house, two pools, a pickleball court, an eight-car garage, and a guesthouse. However, MacNeil is expected to tear down the existing structure and build anew. This acquisition comes just a year after he bought the adjacent property for $38.5 million, bringing his total real estate spending in Manalapan over the past year to $94 million. He has hired RWB Construction Management to develop a custom estate across both properties.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida: In late 2023, he sold an oceanfront mansion in Fort Lauderdale for a record $40 million, the highest residential price ever in Broward County at the time. The property was a newly built beachfront home that he sold to the founder of Bang Energy drinks.

Pebble Beach, California: MacNeil also owns property on the West Coast. In 2023, he listed a Pebble Beach estate (which he had renovated) for $39 million. The seven-bedroom house sits on about three acres in a gated community and even features a putting green. Notably, it's adjacent to another home he owns in Pebble Beach – he had bought the neighboring property for $7 million in 2020, indicating a strategy of assembling a larger estate. If MacNeil's Pebble Beach home sells near the asking price, it would set a record for that exclusive golf community.

Philanthropy and Personal Life

Beyond his business achievements, MacNeil has established himself as a significant philanthropist. In 2019, he donated $1 million to the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine after the facility successfully treated his Golden Retriever, Scout, for cancer. He furthered this support by purchasing a $6 million Super Bowl commercial highlighting the school's work.

MacNeil's philanthropy extends to other causes, particularly those related to American manufacturing, education, and healthcare. His commitment to creating opportunities in American communities reflects the same principles that guide his business operations.

In his personal life, MacNeil remains deeply involved with automobiles beyond collecting them. He and his son Cooper have participated in various racing competitions, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans, further cementing the family's connection to automotive excellence.