A decision making year for home centers l{#ffi"'i;

1985 should see a continued upward thrust, especially in the d-i-y segment. It appears now that regardless of our country's future economic situation, during good times and bad, the home center industry will increase in size and scope. This trend appears certain regardless of who may be in the White House and what he might do concerning the massive federal deficit.

Competition for market share will continue to occupy an increasing share of management attention. Coupled with this will be an extended

By John W. Hechlnger President Hechinger Co.

consumer need for more quality in the products we sell. Maintaining a competitive edge will force all types of home center retailers to keep their focus on pricing strategies which will greatly affect bottom line profits. How each company will plan to achieve the delicate balance required to survive could serve to confound

Story at a Glance

Contlnued upward lhrust for d-l.y...grealer emphasls on prlclng slralegles. .educatlng cuslomers wlll be more lmpor. tanl ...more mon€y wlll be spent on sales tralnlng. ..senlor cltlzen market rlpe.