Meet Blakley Leonard | The MB Market Founder

We had the good fortune of connecting with Blakley Leonard and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Blakley, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I’ve always been a gear head since I was a kid. For some of us, the obsession with cars is not something we grow out of. The idea of being able to work with the cars I’m passionate about on a daily basis and work with the people who share that same passion was very attractive. I knew there was a need for an online platform that exclusively was dedicated to buying and selling Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Backed by a strong community of MB enthusiasts who felt the same, I was able to create The MB Market alongside some fellow enthusiasts who shared the same knowledge and passion for the brand. The MB Market is the only online-auction platform specialized exclusively in Mercedes-Benz vehicles and parts.

What should our readers know about your business?
To find myself today working in the automotive industry with the cars I love is a true blessing. All throughout high school I had 2 regular jobs and also had 2 side businesses- car detailing and landscaping. Out of high school, my only goal was to get out of my hometown so I headed off to college to get a Music Business degree which I’m still paying for today. The life of touring in a band and recording music, as you may have guessed, was not the most fruitful of careers. I decided to get into banking back in 2013 as a means to a steady paycheck and build my resume. What I thought would be short term, turned into a permanent career as I was able to move up the corporate ladder relatively quickly. This turned out to be instrumental as I was able to apply the same knowledge around finances and business development to my own entrepreneurial aspirations. I started collecting old Mercedes during my time at the bank as it had become my main passion. After a few year I had finally saved up enough to buy my first one. Not long after, I had a gentleman offer me more than I had paid for it on a whim, and I was in no position whatsoever to say no considering I had spent every dollar to my name on the car. It started out with one, then two, then three and so on. The hunt of finding the cars, bringing them back to their former glory, and being able to enjoy them became an addiction. With all the “one-size fits all” platforms today, it became apparent that a trustworthy site dedicated to Mercedes vehicles was needed. And just like that, The MB Market was born. It’s so easy to say but it was anything but easy.

To say it’s been extremely difficult is a severe understatement. It’s required working nearly non-stop every day while still maintaining a full-time career to pay the bills. I’m no stranger to hard work and it’s cost significant sacrifices through discipline and consistency to get here. While it hasn’t been easy, I wouldn’t want it any other way. It’s helped me to place proper values on the accomplishments that have been earned. The MB Market is the perfect underdog story. There was no safety net to fall back on, no pockets to pull from, and no option other than to succeed. It’s been grit and grind from day one and I’m extremely excited for the new chapter on the horizon for 2025 which includes some major moves forward.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Atlanta’s always been a great going-out town and no matter the area, demographic, or fare, people are proud to show you what their part of Atlanta is all about. If I’m hopping off a plane and diving into the city I like to start with a Burger and bourbon at Local Three. I know there’s always a burger debate in this city but Local Three stays at the top of my list. After that it’s easy enough to pick one of 20 or more spots in Buckhead or Vinings for a cocktail.

The rest of the week can go several directions depending on weather and timing but for these purposes let’s assume warm weather because this city stays vibrant in the summer months.

Growing up in the Appalachians it was always important to spend time outdoors and the ever-expanding beltline ensures every opportunity for fresh air is available. You guys know I’m addicted to anything on wheels and seeing Atlanta by scooter for a day is a must. After one of those days it’s so convenient to stay in the area and enjoy Ponce or Krog.

Watching Atlanta finally get recognized by the Michelin Guide for the amazing and diverse restaurants over the last year has been great! Some favorites ended up on the short list including Heirloom BBQ, Antico, BoccaLupo, and Gunshow. You really can’t go wrong in Atlanta and no matter where we end up, Buford Highway is a must.

Going back to my music playing days in college (and prior), I love seeing what bands are artists are playing in town. I’m a huge music nut and love virtually every genre. If I can’t decide on a concert then it’s a Hawks game because I’m also a basketball fan.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My dad, although unknowingly, is to thank for my passion for Mercedes-Benz vehicles. He bought his first MB in the 80’s, a 1983 300D, which we still have in the family to this day. Growing up in the backseat of that car is what started it all.

The success of The MB Market is also made possible with the help of my good friend and business partner, Ben Everest. I’ve known Ben for over half of my life at this point and can’t shout him out enough. He’s extremely knowledgeable and shares the same obsession as myself.

Lastly, all of the fellow Mercedes-Benz enthusiasts out there who have helped make The MB Market a success. It’s amazing to have a dedicated platform for these cars, ran by people who actually care about them. It’s become its own community and I’m extremely grateful for all of the people (and now friends) I’ve met along the way.

Website: https://MBmarket.com

Instagram: @thembmarket @blakleyleonard

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blakleyleonard/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thembmarket/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheMBMarket