A decision making year for home centers lf"uffr'i;

1985 should see a continued upward thrust. especially in the d-i-y segment. It appqus 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 appe:lrs 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. Hechinger 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

eontinued upward thrust for d-i-y. ..greater emPhasis on pricing strategies...educating customers will be more impor' tant ...more money will be spent on sales training.. .sen' ior citizen market riPe.