Dave Hester is a name that reality TV fans instantly recognize, especially those who followed the hit show Storage Wars. Known for his bold personality, sharp business instincts, and signature “YUUUP!” catchphrase, Hester made a lasting mark on the world of storage auctions. Over the years, many people have wondered about his career—is Dave Hester still in business or has he stepped away from the spotlight? This article explores his journey, career highs and lows, and where his business stands today.
History of Dave Hester
Before becoming a reality TV star, Dave Hester had already built a solid reputation in the auction world. He grew up surrounded by antiques and collectibles, which helped him develop an eye for valuable items at a young age. He started attending auctions in the 1980s and gradually began his own buying and selling business. Over time, he moved from simply collecting to becoming a licensed auctioneer and running his own company, Dave Hester Auctions. This strong background set the foundation for his later fame on television.
Is Dave Hester Still in Business?
Yes — Dave Hester is still in business. Despite taking breaks from television, his auctioneering career has continued. He runs Dave Hester Auctions, offering services such as estate sales, storage unit auctions, liquidations, and appraisals. Hester has more than 35 years of experience in the industry and remains active as an auctioneer. While some of his physical locations may have closed, his business operations are ongoing. For anyone wondering “is Dave Hester still in business,” the answer is clearly yes — he continues to work in the auction field today.
The Rise to Fame: Storage Wars Era
Dave Hester’s big break came in 2010 when he joined the original cast of Storage Wars on A&E. The show followed professional buyers bidding on storage lockers, hoping to find hidden treasures. Hester quickly became known as one of the most competitive and outspoken personalities on the series. His trademark “YUUUP!” during bidding became a fan favorite and helped boost his fame. This exposure dramatically increased his business profile and made him one of the most recognizable figures in the storage auction industry.
Challenges and Setbacks in His Career
While Hester enjoyed fame and success, his career hasn’t been without challenges. He was fired from Storage Wars in 2012 after filing a lawsuit against the network, though he later returned. In 2018, Hester suffered a serious stroke, which forced him to pause work and focus on his health. These setbacks affected his public appearances and slowed down his business activities temporarily. Despite these difficulties, he recovered and gradually returned to the auction world, showing resilience and determination to keep going.
Dave Hester’s Business Today
Currently, Dave Hester remains active in the auction industry. He continues to run his company, offering estate sales and appraisals, and occasionally appears at special auctions or events. He also made a comeback on Storage Wars in its later seasons, proving that he’s still involved in the field that made him famous. Although he may not be as visible as during his early TV days, he has maintained a steady presence in the business world and continues to serve clients through his auction services.
Will Dave Hester Continue His Business in the Future?
Looking ahead, it seems likely that Dave Hester will continue working in the auction business. With decades of experience and a well-known name, he has the expertise and reputation to keep operating for years to come. While he might not be as aggressive or high-profile as before, his passion for auctions and collecting hasn’t faded. As long as there is demand for estate sales, liquidations, and storage auctions, Hester has a place in the industry.
Conclusion
Dave Hester’s journey from a local auction buyer to a reality TV personality is a story of determination, risk-taking, and resilience. He faced challenges but managed to rebuild his career and keep his business alive. For anyone asking “is Dave Hester still in business,” the answer is yes — he remains active in the auction world and continues to use his skills to run successful sales. While his days of reality TV stardom may be behind him, his entrepreneurial spirit is still going strong.
Also Read:
