Hardware Show scores again

Il REDICTING the headlong race f for space to be over, Robert L. Strickland. chairman. Lowe's Companies, oflicially opened the 44th annual National Hardware Show and Hardware Industry Week amid an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation.

Amplifying his comment by explaining he expects the rush of home centers opening more and more new stores to slow, the 30 year home center industry veteran who was keynote speaker, continued to address the theme of "Competitive Profitability-Strategies for Enduring Succgss. "

"Simultaneous increase in gross margin on sales accompanied by a market share increase" is the way he explained competitive profitability as a better and improved measure of performance. Edit the merchandise assortment in a store, he advised, to determine what is selling and what is not. He also underscored the need for improving training and education.

In closing, he advised his audience that the most important thing today is to lead, not manage. "Manage yourself," he counseled, "and you'll be a good leader."

This year's show was definitely upbeat as the 70,000 in attendance filled the aisles of McCormick Place Complex in Chicago, enjoying the spaciousness provided by the extra facilities of McCormick Place North for the first time. Some 3000 exhibitors had more room as well at the Aug. l0-12 show with many able to expand.

Story at a Glance

Lowe's Companies' Strickland predicts a slowing in the opening of new home centers. . . a store's goal should be larger gross and market share