HBSD March 2024

MARCH 2024

Volume 50 No. 3

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MARCH 2024

THE GOLDEN

HAMMER RETURNS

Showcasing products with striking impact

Volume 50 No. 3

03.24 TOP SHOWROOMS

16 Elmwood Design Centre does it all. The “service first” Canadian showroom actively encourages customer engagement.

TOP WOMEN

20 Jodie Brixey administers healthy doses of leadership in California.

FASTENERS

32 Fasteners on the front line: The industry responds to demands for faster, better and easier products.

DO IT BEST REPORT

22 Golden Innovation COVER STORY

The HBSDealer Golden Hammer awards return. The hammer strikes for the best new products of the year.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

8

Our Amy Grant writes that Caitlin Clark isn’t the only one breaking records.

NEWS & ANALYSIS

10 True Value vs. Diablo 12 Owens-Corning acquires Masonite 14 Big plans for Cameron Ashley

38 Excitement around Houston; Making moves in e-commerce; and the Melaco Sisters.

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS

48 People moves at Kodiak, STIHL, Spahn & Rose; and a retirement at Hancock Lumber IN EVERY ISSUE

10 Product Knowledge 50 Quikrete Industry Dashboard

Hardware + Building Supply Dealer (ISSN 2376-5852) is published monthly, except for July/August and November/December, which are double issues, by EnsembleIQ, 8550 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Suite 225, Chicago, IL 60631. Subscription rate in the United States: $132 one year; $240 two year; $17 single issue copy; Canada and Mexico: $180 one year; $342 two year; $20.40 single issue copy; Foreign: $180 one year; $342 two year; $20.40 single issue copy; in all other countries (air mail only).

Digital Subscription: $75 one year; $140 two year. Periodical postage paid at Chicago, IL., and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to HBSD, Circulation Fulfillment Director, 8550 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Suite 225, Chicago, IL 60631. Copyright © 2024 by EnsembleIQ. All rights reserved.

4 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

HBSDealer.com

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Here's What's Online See more and share more when you follow us on Linkedin.

Recruiting, with military precision Watch the replay of “Hitting Career Targets: Establishing the Next Generation of Leaders Through Military and Veteran Recruiting.” It features insights from leaders at Builders FirstSource. Learn more at HBSDealer.com/webinars.

Garage-style demos A special winter edition of ‘Ken’s New Jersey Garage’ enters the kitchen for a Marble Dream makeover. Check it out in our continually growing video library at HBSDealer.com/video.

And follow us on Youtube: @HBSDealer.

The votes continue to pile up Poll questions and poll results are a regular feature on HBSDealer’s daily e-newsletter, tackling a variety of topics, including this one: To what extent will office-toresidential conversions impact the housing market?

When you connect with us, you connect with the industry @HBSDealer

6 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

Source: HBSDealer poll

7%

Significantly

37% 26%

Slightly

Not at all

30%

Somewhat

HBSDealer.com

From the Publisher 550 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Ste. 225, Chicago, IL 60631 (773) 992-4450 Fax (773) 992-4455 www.HBSDealer.com

Breaking records, on and off the court

I

owa Hawkeyes basketball star Caitlin Clark is setting scoring records and lifting her sport to new levels of excitement and popularlity.

Her half-court shots and no-look passes are thrilling audiences of Iowa fans (like me), and introducing new throngs of fans — men, women, young and old —to the women’s movement in college basketball.

HBSDealer has its own exciting women’s movement, and it’s also breaking records: Top Women in Hardware & Building Supply. And I am thrilled to announce the opening of nominations for this year’s honorees.

After reaching a record-breaking 766 nominations last year, I am eager to see us surpass that number in 2024.

We are looking for nominations in two categories:

Rising Stars This award recognizes a talented professional with the potential to make a significant positive difference within her company and within the industry for years to come.

Business Excellence This award recognizes a leader who has demonstrated achievement, growth and success in the hardware and home improvement industry; embraced education and community service, and inspired others to follow a similar path.

BRAND MANAGEMENT SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT John Kenlon (516) 650-2064 jkenlon@ensembleiq.com EDITORIAL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Ken Clark kclark@ensembleiq.com LBM EDITOR Andy Carlo acarlo@ensembleiq.com HARDWARE EDITOR Tim Burke tburke@ensembleiq.com

Amy Platter Grant Associate Publisher I urge everyone to take a moment to reflect on their professional circles and consider nominating someone they truly believe deserves recognition. Let's celebrate those who contribute their energy and dedication to their everyday work lives.

HBSDealer embarked on this mission in 2020 with a virtual event, and it has since flourished. This event has created a space to celebrate women while also providing insight and education. HBSDealer magazine continues the mission yearround where we highlight the story of a remarkable woman in the industry, sharing personal and inspirational narratives.

As I pen this editorial, I find myself reflecting on my own journey in this industry which began in the year 2000. I remember the days of “Booth Babes,” when exhibitors at industry events hired beautiful models to attract traffic — an outdated practice thankfully consigned to history. However, the journey for women in the industry remains challenging. Whether juggling the responsibilities of parenthood or caregiving, women are expected to excel in all aspects of their lives. It is a daunting task, but one that many women undertake with grace and determination.

My hope is that this event, much like Caitlin Clark's impact on Women's Basketball, inspires women in our industry — allowing us to not only see it but become it. Go Hawks!!

I look forward to reading your nominations soon.

The 2024 Top Women in Hardware & Building Supply awards and networking event will return to Chicago Nov. 20-21.

Find out more at HBSDTopWomen.com.

8 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

ADVERTISING SALES & BUSINESS ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Amy Platter Grant MIDWEST & SOUTHERN STATES (773) 294-8598 agrant@ensembleiq.com REGIONAL MANAGER Greg Cole NORTHEAST & GREAT LAKES STATES (317) 775-2206 gcole@ensembleiq.com DESIGN/PRODUCTION/MARKETING ART DIRECTOR Bill Antkowiak bantkowiak@ensembleiq.com PRODUCTION MANAGER Patricia Wisser pwisser@ensembleiq.com MARKETING MANAGER Kathryn Abrahamsen kabrahamsen@ensembleiq.com SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES LIST RENTAL mbriganti@anteriad.com SUBSCRIPTION QUESTIONS contact@HBSDealer.com

CORPORATE OFFICERS CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Jennifer Litterick CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Jane Volland CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Derek Estey CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER Ann Jadown CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER Joe Territo EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Levi Smith, CEO, Franklin Building Supply Steve Sallah, CEO, LBM Advantage Christi Powell, Women & Minority Business Enterprise Market Manager, 84 Lumber Neal DeLowery, Store Projects and Merchandise Manager, Aubuchon Co. Brad McDaniel, Owner, McDaniel’s Do it Center Joe Kallen, CEO, Busy Beaver Building Centers Tom Cost, Owner, Killingworth True Value Permissions: No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.

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News + Analysis

True Value vs. Diablo ORGILL ALSO NAMED IN SUIT SPARKED BY ALLEGED “BRE ACH OF CONTR ACT.” True Value Company, the Chicago-based distributor, said it filed litigation against Freud America and Orgill in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois.

The issue revolves around a decision

by Diablo, a brand of Freud America, to cease selling its products through True Value’s distribution system. And taking issue with a competitor’s alleged efforts to lean on the Diablo decision to solicit business from True Value customers, True Value said it named the Memphis-based Orgill in the lawsuit as well.

Orgill declined to comment, citing the litigation. Diablo shared with HBSDealer a statement that said in part: “After careful evaluation, Diablo made the decision to part ways with True Value because the relationship no longer fits our business model.”

In a letter to True Value dealers dated Jan. 31, True Value CEO Chris Kempa wrote. “True Value filed suit for alleged claims such as, among other things, breach of contract, conspiracy to breach contract, and tortious interference with contract and prospective economic relations.”

Orgill’s inclusion in the suit is an interesting twist to the competitive landscape, where co-op’s and distributors routinely visit and court customers outside of their own networks’ customers.

and will embrace any opportunity given for genuine resolution, which to date, we have not received.”

Diablo’s statement included the following: “We thank True Value for its 20+ year partnership with Diablo and wish True Value much success in the future.”

Product Knowledge In a Jan. 19 meeting, Freud/Diablo announced plans to cease doing business with True Value.

“Freud/Diablo and a competitor of ours were telling you to buy their products somewhere else,” Kempa said. The subsequent letter to retailers made clear he was referring to Orgill as the competitor.

More was revealed about True Value’s complaint against Freud/Diablo.

In a Jan. 26 note to True Value retailers, Kempa described a Jan. 19 meeting in which representatives of Freud/Diablo announced the company’s intention of ceasing to do business with True Value.

The announcement came as a shock to the distributor’s merchants, he said.

Early efforts to engage with Freud/Diablo, he said, were essentially ignored.

That led True Value to take legal action.

“I didn’t want this situation that Freud/ Diablo started to escalate to where it has, but unfortunately, I cannot stand by and allow you to be told how to run your business,” Kempa wrote. He added: “We will do what it takes to put an end to this

Product: Roomba Combo j9+ self-emptying robot vacuum and mop Manufacturer: iRobot of Bedford, Massachusetts.

MSRP: About $900.

Knowledge: Described as the company’s most powerful and smartest robot vacuum, the j9+ not only learns the layout of a home, it reacts to pets and unpredictable objects with PrecisionVision Navigation. (It’s guaranteed to avoid pet waste). The j9 knows to adjust for various carpets, and it automatically empties for up to 60 days. Powered by iRobot OS, it gets smarter with each use.

Financial fact: Amazon.com backed out of a $1.7 billion deal to acquire iRobot after European regulators began to scrutinize the move’s impact on competition.

Amazon will pay iRobot a $94 million termination fee.

“I didn’t want this situation that Freud/Diablo started to escalate to where it has, but unfortunately, I cannot stand by and allow you to be told how to run your business. We will do what it takes to put an end to this and will embrace any opportunity given for genuine resolution, which to date, we have not received.”

—Chris Kempa, True Value CEO

10 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

HBSDealer.com

News + Analysis

Acquisition opens doors for OC Toledo, Ohio-based Owens Corning will acquire Masonite, the innovative maker of interior and exterior door systems, in a nearly $4 billion deal.

Owens Corning said the addition of Masonite’s market-leading doors business creates a new growth platform, strengthening the company’s position in residential building materials and extending its offering of highly valued products and brands.

Masonite was founded in 1925. The Tampa-based company designs, manufactures, and markets doors and door systems, with a vertically integrated manufacturing model serving both repair and remodel and new construction demand. It operates 64 manufacturing and distribution facilities, primarily in North America, and has over 10,000 employees globally.

“We are excited by this opportunity to add a scalable new growth

FINANCIAL DETAILS

platform for our company,” said Brian Chambers, Board Chair and Chief Executive Officer of Owens Corning.

“Masonite is a market leader that complements our existing residential interior and exterior product offering and has consistently demonstrated top-line growth and margin expansion. The combination of our commercial, operational, and innovation capabilities allows us to accelerate our long-term enterprise growth strategy with a clear line of sight to meaningful synergies and increased cash flow generation.”

Openings, closings and acquisitions The HBSDealer News Map, powered by Epicor, continues to dot the landscape with newsworthy activity.

A recent representative sample includes US LBM’s acquisition of Old Mission Windows in Traverse City,

Michigan. Among the openings: 84 Lumber’s new manufacturing plant in Winter Haven, Fla. And there were closings, including that of Woods Hardware in Harrison, Ohio.

Learn more and see for yourself at HBSDealer.com/map.

12 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

Owens Corning will acquire all outstanding shares of Masonite for $133.00 per share in cash, representing an approximate 38% premium to Masonite’s closing share price on Feb. 8.

The implied transaction value is approximately $3.9 billion, implying a purchase multiple of approximately 8.6x 2023E adjusted EBITDA or 6.8x when including synergies of $125 million.

Howard Heckes, president and CEO of Masonite, expressed similar optimism for growth. “The combination with Owens Corning enables the acceleration of our Doors That Do More strategy, while delivering immediate and substantial value to our shareholders,” Heckes said. ”This agreement brings together two storied companies with a common focus on innovation and making life better at home for the people who use our products every day.”

Following the closing, Masonite will operate as a reportable segment and will maintain Masonite’s brands and a presence in Tampa, Florida.

Owens Corning said the acquisition of Masonite and entry into doors adds a highly complementary line of innovative products that advances its strategy to expand its building materials offering in residential applications.

With this transaction, Owens Corning grows revenue to $12.6 billion. Owens Corning expects cost synergies of approximately $125 million annually, generated through scale and operational savings, with the majority realized by the end of Year two, after the close.

The transaction will be financed by cash on hand and committed debt financing of $3 billion provided by Morgan Stanley Senior Funding, Inc.

HBSDealer.com

REDWOOD

DOUGLAS-FIR

TREATED

Uppers available in 1-inch, 2-inch, and 4-inch dimensions in lengths from 6–20 feet.

Timbers available in 6-inch and larger dimensions, up to 12” x 24”, and lengths up to 24 feet.

Joists and planks available in 3-inch and 4-inch dimensions in lengths up to 24 feet. Posts and beams available in 6-inch and larger dimensions, up to 12” x 24”, and lengths up to 24 feet.

Comprehensive assortment including Douglas-fir, Hem fir, and Southern Yellow Pine lumber, timbers, and plywood, available in a range of treatments and interior fire-retardant applications.

From 450,000 acres of timberland, the largest wood treating in the Western USA, three sawmills, and ten distribution points — we are your source for quality FSC® certified redwood and Douglas-fir premium lumber and timbers, and your treated needs.

To order, please call (707) 764-4450 • MendoCo.com

News + Analysis

Aubuchon rebuilds in Vermont THE GRAND RE-OPENING CEREMONY OF THE AUBUCHON ACE MONTPELIER HARDWARE STORE. The Aubuchon Company recently celebrated the grand re-opening of their Montpelier, Vermont, store following a natural disaster that forced hundreds of people to evacuate and destroyed homes, businesses, and farms.

“We are back bigger than ever after the devastating floods this past summer ready to serve the community,” said Will Aubuchon, CEO. To support local Vermont communities, Aubuchon Company launched a Vermont Flood Recovery Roundup Campaign in surrounding stores. The

The Aubuchon team, including Will Aubuchon (at left with scissors), celebrated the reopening in Montpelier, Vermont.

Birth of a brand Cornerstone Building Brands has unveiled its latest brand: Fortify Building Solutions.

The new brand is an integration of three of the company’s “heavyweight” brands, according to Cornerstone, including Heritage Building Systems, Metal Depots, and Reed’s Metals.

The Fortify Building Solutions brand will serve customers with one of the largest selections of metal building products and accessories in the industry.

“Fortify Building Solutions brings together the value of our Residential Metal Roofing and Metal Buildings solutions, our talented and dedicated employees in local markets and our full-service capabilities to achieve something new—and truly great—for America’s building materials industry,” said Matt Ackley, president of Shelter Solutions at Cornerstone Building Brands.

Cornerstone said its move is a “strategic leap forward with a renewed focus on local customers that will bring improved access, superior service and personalized support.”

“We’re excited for customers to experience this winning formula first-hand,” Ackley adds. “Our goal is to set a new

standard for service in the industry.”

The expansive assortment includes metal roofing systems, metal wall panels,

fundraiser occurred in 17 Aubuchon Hardware stores, Martin’s hardware & Building Supply and Lyndonville hardware & Lumber.

Customers could donate their change by rounding up their purchase to the nearest dollar.

The Aubuchon Foundation, the firm’s nonprofit arm, matched the amount raised at each store, bringing the total donation to $36,572.

Proceeds benefited the VT Flood Response & Recovery Fund set up by The Vermont Community Foundation.

components, pole barns, Hypersteel cold-formed buildings and pre-engineered metal buildings for an enormous array of applications. Customers also have the added benefit of an expanded network and proven expertise from a single partner, contributing to less headaches and fewer delays, Cornerstone said.

DCs in demand for Cameron Ashley In the past five years, Greenville, South Carolina-based Cameron Ashley doubled the size of its distribution network, growing from 25 locations to 50.

The company intends to step on the accelerator in 2025. It already has plans for new center openings in: Visalia, California; Milwaukee, Wisconsin: New Haven, Connecticut; and Greenville, South Carolina.

The growth plans were shared during the distributor’s 2024 Dealer Show in Orlando last month.

The company expanded into new markets in 2023. It opened distribution centers in Sacramento, California; Salt Lake City, Utah; Chicago; Little Rock,

14 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

Arkansas; Covington; Louisiana; and Manchester, New Hampshire.

Cameron Ashley’s advice in Orlando: “Buy more, save more.”

Scene from the Cameron Ashley 2024 Dealer Show in Orlando.

HBSDealer.com

See more event details!

June 13-15

2024

Register for this event and improve your margins! Contact us today.

Pat McCutcheon, VP of Sales: 1-800-333-0520 | marketing@househasson.com House-Hasson Hardware Company: Knoxville, TN | www.househasson.com

Elmwood Design Centre does it all THE ‘SERVICE-FIRST’ CANADIAN SHOWROOM ACTIVELY ENCOUR AGES CUSTOMER ENGAGEMENT.

By Andy Carlo

E

lmwood Design Centre was created to simplify the design journey.

According to the full-service design centre, gone are the days of traveling from showroom to showroom.

Elmwood Design Centre has consolidated all the essentials for major builds or renovation projects in one convenient location.

Leveraging over 50 years of experience managing six Home Hardware retail locations, Elmwood envisioned creating the fi rst and only full-service exterior and interior design showroom in Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada.

The Elmwood Group is part of the Home Hardware cooperative.

Founded by the Leger family in 1974, the group now owns six Home Hardware locations, one door manufacturing plant, one furniture, appliance and outdoor living location, and the Elmwood Design Centre.

With a clear vision in mind, Elmwood partnered with BMF to create a design centre that provides a hands-on experience for customers, allowing them to see, touch, and feel everything necessary to bring their dream space to life—all under one roof.

Based in Burlington, Ontario, Canada, BMF is a renovation partner for independent retailers across the United States and Canada.

From store planning and design to the supply and installation of innovative merchandising systems and displays, BMF offers a turnkey solution that creates great in-store experiences for customers while driving increased sales and profitability.

Elmwood said it benefitted from BMF’s expertise in designing and installing “hundreds of beautiful and customer-centric retail

16 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

environments.” The result of the partnership transformed a vision into a reality.

By incorporating Elmwood’s concept and passion into the planning process, BMF crafted a cutting-edge 4,500-square-foot showroom featuring interactive displays and life-size samples of windows, doors, siding, kitchen cabinets, countertops, faucets, vanities, and more.

Elmwood’s showroom actively encourages customer engagement, inviting them to interact with products, explore samples, utilize visualizers, and consult with their talented team of design consultants and industry experts to make decisions with confidence.

“What sets us apart from our traditional Home Hardware locations is our ‘service first’ approach,” said Jon Stephenson, director of marketing & design operations at Elmwood Design Centre. “We want our clients to come in for their appointment and ‘feel’ the personalized experience from start to finish.”

The team at Elmwood includes five designers: one lumber & building materials design consultant, three kitchen design consultants, and one interior designer.

Stephenson says the Elmwood Design Centre is the link between the “building” phase, and the “end result.”

“What I mean by this is that often in the past, builders would have their own set of plans, ideas, and process to build someone’s dream home,” Stephenson explains. “The client would often feel left out in this process with very little control over some of the important choices. We want you to feel confident that you were part of the important decisions. We’re here for our clients every step of the way.”

The Design Centre allows clients to take part in the process of building their dream home, and the contractors are able to do what they do best: build.

If you have a Top Showroom you would like to share, please contact LBM Editor Andy Carlo at acarlo@ensembleiq.com.

Elmwood's showroom encourages cutomer engagement and interaction with products while consulting with a talented design team.

HBSDealer.com

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Born to run (a business)

“Essentially I’m in the business of taking care of people, from the customers that walk through my doors to my employees. It looks different, but you have to be a good listener in both roles. You have to be able to teach people; to take action; to make hard decisions. Yes, they are worlds apart, but at JODIE BRIXE Y ADMINISTERS HE ALTHY DOSES the same time there’s a lot of similarities.”

OF LE ADERSHIP IN CALIFORNIA. By Ken Clark Her influence in the business supercharged in 2020 when the pandemic emerged. Her parents hen she was a child, Jodie Brixey was one of stepped back, by design. And her team—roughly those born-into-the-industry kids who swept saw 100 people across two locations—stepped up. dust from the store with brooms twice her size.

“My job was to protect them, advocate for them, Not only that, when she was born her mother uplift them,” she added. “And that’s really what I’ve brought her to the store before even bringing her to the house. been doing ever since.”

“That’s not exaggeration,” Brixey told HBSDealer. “That At the same time, Brixey avoids the micromanactually happened.” ager mindset.

Today, Brixey is the general manager of Calaveras Lumber “My role is less about directing and more about and Sonora Lumber —two California locations that recently empowering the incredible team that makes joined up with Nation’s Best. Her lumber industry Calaveras and Sonora Lumber pedigree runs all the way back to her great grandfawhat they are,” she said. “Our ther, an American Forest Products executive. employees, many of whom But encouraged by her parents to look outside have been with us for over two the family business for career opportunities, Brixey’s decades, are not just staff; they path took an unusual turn through the health care are who and what our legacy industry. She was a registered nurse for 10 years, was built on. before making a gradual and then dramatic return.

“I’m also a huge advocate “You’d be hard pressed to find another RN that’s now of taking your time to hire the a general manager of two hardware stores,” she said. ‘right’ people and positioning True. But there is a cultural connection between them in a role where they can the two. In the hospital, her job was to advocate for thrive. To be a good leader, you —Jodie Brixey, general manager, her patients. At Calaveras and Sonora Lumber, a Nahave to know your people, their Calaveras Lumber and Sonora Lumber tion’s Best company, she’s the advocate for employstrengths, their weaknesses, ees and customers. and then you structure your “It’s interesting how much nursing and retail play into each business around them. That’s what I believe truly other,” said Brixey, a mother of three (Jack, Kaydee and Will). makes a successful organization.”

Brixey and Nation's Best are both emphasizing training and employee development in 2024. Her Brixey, third from left, with her team at Calaveras Lumber promoting breasthope is to create a program to bridge the gap cancer awareness. between generational knowledge and exciting new technologies.

“Legacy employees play a crucial role in mentoring a next generation, she said.”

During the 2023 Top Women in Hardware & Building Supply Awards event in Chicago, Brixey, a Business Excellence honoree, shared the following question from the stage: “What are you building?

How will you use your unique position to not only achieve success, but to empower and uplift those around you?”

In the interview with HBSDealer, she reflected on that message.

“At the end of the day, as a leader, no matter what industry you’re in, that’s really what we’re trying to do.”

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“Essentially I’m in the business of taking care of people, from the customers that walk through my doors to my employees.”

20 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

HBSDealer.com

Our Do it Best designed store gives us market dominance.

LET’S GET GROWING G

Our bold new store design transforms any store into a shopping destination that drives traffic and ignites sales growth.

Join a company that’s committed to taking your business as far as you can dream it.

Read how Mike and Brenda MacKay built for growth at doitbestonline.com/Vassar.

Mike and Brenda MacKay M proudly debuted the first re-envisioned Do it Best store in Vassar, MI.

GOLDEN

INNOVATION The hammer strikes for the “Best New Products of the Year”

By HBSDealer Staff

W

e took our time. We searched the field.

We delivered our judgement.

And here they are: the HBSDealer Golden Hammer Award winners, also known as “Best New Products of the Year.”

While quality (and value) are in the eyes (and the pocket book) of the beholder, the editorial staff of Hardware & Building Supply Dealer delivered its judgement based on a method designed to bring out the best from the hardware and building supply industry.

Nominations were solicited for months, as potential honorees and product representatives made their cases.

television commercials. Earlier in this century, giants of the industry were recognized with Golden Hammers in the “Retailer of the Year” category. In 2019, the Golden Hammers roared back to life, establishing a system and criteria to identify products deserving of the title, thus reviving the best-of-the-best tradition.

For the second time in as many years, the Golden Hammer Awards for best new products shared the stage in Las Vegas with Golden Heart Awards bestowed on companies that give back to their communities in remarkable ways. (Learn more about the Golden Hammer Products & Purpose Awards event at HBSDealer.com.)

Whether it’s energetic support for philanthropy or an innovative solution for home improvement, the Golden Hammer stands for quality.

Check out the level of quality for yourselves on the following pages as we congratulate our “golden” product award winners.

The following criteria were used to judge each entry: Innovation — features, technology, differentiation and benefits; Value — Including relative price, consumer relevance, and functional practicality; Shelf appeal — clarity of message, and overall desirability of the product within its category.

To be considered for a Golden Hammer, products had to have been launched no earlier than Jan. 1, 2023.

“The Golden Hammer program has a long tradition in the home improvement industry, and we take very seriously our role as guardians of the Golden Hammer,” said Ken Clark, editor in chief of Hardware & Building Supply Dealer. “We’re excited to share the most recent class because it was a tough field, and the combination of innovation and value represented by these ‘best products’ is through the roof.”

The Golden program has evolved over the years — in the early 1980s, it even recognized the best of home center 22 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

HBSDealer.com

Alside: ClimaTech PriME

Key features: ClimaTech PriME is a family of high-performance insulated glass packages for its replacement window product portfolio. ENERGY STAR has recognized it as meeting the criteria for the Most Efficient designation on select Alside vinyl windows and patio doors. ClimaTech PriME uses argon gas between the panes of glass—a more cost-effective solution than the more commonly used krypton gas.

Judges’ comments: Meets the energy-efficiency performance requirements for all four climate zones of the country. Bonus: efficiency brings opportunities for federal tax credits.

Arrow Fastener: Arrow RevealCut Ceiling Tile Workstation

Apex Tool Group: Crescent 22 oz. Steel Milled-Face Framing Hammer

Key features: It’s the world’s first ceiling tile-cutting workstation, creating factory-grade cuts and profile-edges performed in 30 seconds or less.

Available in a 2-foot tile and up to 4-foot tile version, RevealCut is built with precision, speed, safety, and savings in mind. Designed with an adjustable height feature, allowing for up to 54 unique cut configurations.

MSRP: $578 (2’) or $679.00. (4’).

Judges’ comments: We saw an early demo of this system, and knew right away it was a winner.

Key features: The framing hammer features Crescent’s innovative VibeGuard technology in the handle that reduces vibration by 70%, protecting the pro from common wrist and elbow issues. A 15% larger strike face and balanced head will reduce mishits on the job.

MSRP: $27.99 Judges’ comments: This striking tool brings a bigger sweet spot to the job site.

Nite Ize: Inova T4R Long Throw Rechargeable Tactical Flashlight

Key features: The rechargeable T4R Long Throw is the ultimate long-range flashlight, providing a far-reaching 1,000-meter beam. Tap the durable middle button to activate blast, high, medium, low, momentary blast, and strobe modes for ultimate utility. It recharges in 4 hours in an included charging cradle, which mounts in a garage or vehicle. Shockproof, crushproof, and weatherproof.

MSRP: $224.99 Judges’ comments: The word flashlight fails to do justice to this handheld lighting machine.

HBSDealer.com

Benjamin Obdyke: VaporDry SA

Key features: A breakthrough product, this self-adhered, vapor-permeable roofing membrane addresses the problem of moisture buildup under the roof: When hot air rises into the cold attic, it creates moisture. And unlike a vapor-closed membrane, such as roofing felt or traditional synthetic underlayments, VaporDry is designed to prevent that moisture build-up.

MSRP: $1.20 to $1.20 per sq. ft.

Judges’ comments: Tread on me. Go ahead.

The membrane’s tri-laminate structure is durable under foot traffic.

HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

March 2024

23

Cleva North America: Vacmaster Professional 5-gallon 6 Peak HP Beast Wet/Dry Vac

Key features: A powerful 6 peak horse power machine is designed to handle tough cleanups. And if you need to blow away debris from your workspace or yard, it easily converts into a blower. Equipped with a high-effi ciency cartridge filter that captures fi ne dust down to 1 micron in size.

MSRP: $99.99 Judges’ comments: Power plus portability. You can take it with you wherever you go.

Tantimber: Tantimber ThermoWood Oak

Key features: Whether for decking or cladding, this sustainably sourced hardwood undergoes an environmentally friendly, chemical-free process called Thermowood. The process uses steam and heat, resulting in finished products that are dimensionally stable and incredibly durable. Tantimber ThermoWood Oak offers a range of profiles and will not warp or expand, and it is virtually impervious to fungi and bacteria that can cause decay.

This product is promoted as an exceptional alternative to endangered South American hardwoods.

MSRP: $12 per square foot Judges’ comments: Thermally modified wood products have been thriving in Europe for decades.

FastenMaster: FastenMaster MVP Multipurpose Fastener

Key features: MVP combines FastenMaster’s exclusive double-lead SureStart point for a fast start, and the TORX ttap drive system for stable, wobble-free installation. The fastener also features a durable ProjectLife Coating that delivers superior corrosion protection for the life of the project and a SureSink Head that countersinks into the wood without compromising clamping force.

MSRP: Varies Judges’ comments: The variety of packages is a plus, along with the free TORX bit.

Daich Coatings: Rock Patch

Key features: This filler, leveler and resurfacer is made with a tough polymer/stone formula. The premixed compound comes out of the container ready to use, no messy mixing required. Can be used as a prep work step on both interior and exterior surfaces.

Ideal starting solution for cracked, broken surfaces before beginning larger projects.

MSRP: $47.95 per gallon Judges’ comments: No odor. Extra flexibility. It doesn’t dry quickly like concrete, so you can take your time to smooth it into shape to repair.

TiteBond: TiteGrab Plus Construction Adhesive

Key features: TiteGrab Plus is an easily extrudable, advanced polymer formula designed to instantly grab and hold materials in place. TiteGrab Plus significantly reduces installation times and amount of bracing, making it ideal for interior and exterior construction and repair projects.

MSRP: $7.99 to $9.99 Judges’ comments: Versatile use cases include backsplashes, brick veneer, countertops and more.

24 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

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It’s as easy as PUSH, CLICK, DONE! Introduce your customers to Decora Edge wiring devices – a faster, easier, and safer way to install electrical switches and outlets in the home. Decora Edge features color-coded lever terminals, no exposed metal parts and an audible ‘click’ to confirm a secure connection has been made.

Backed by quality and reliable performance, Decora Edge is the solution for easy installs.

PUSH.

CLICK.

Learn more at leviton.com/decoraedge

DONE.

ITW-Paslode: Cordless 1-½ inch Positive Placement Metal Connector Nailer

Key features: Paslode’s Fuel System makes the versatile tool lighter, more reliable, and more durable than battery-only nailers; allowing users to drive up to 9,000 nails on a fully charged battery. The versatile power tool has Paslode’s proprietary Positive Placement nose tip, which allows users to quickly and accurately find metal connector holes and drive nails with precision and speed MSRP: $499 Judges’ comments: Lays claim to the title: ‘most lightweight and compact cordless metal connector tool available.’

Polar Bear Products: Biodegradable Window Insulation Film Kit

Key features: Invented to replace an existing product that has been bringing efficiency to homes for more than 50 years, this new film was developed to help reduce single use plastics.

This Bio version goes on crystal clear and helps reduce drafts moisture and condensation on windows and doors. It will last up to 15 months before it begins its biodegrading process.

MSRP: $15.99 Judges’ comments: Two earth friendly missions in one product — at an affordable price.

Klein Tools: Rechargeable Pro Thermal Imager with Wi-Fi

Key features: The TI290 is a high resolution, Wi-Fi enabled, professional model USB rechargeable Thermal Imager. A large LCD displays unseen hot and cold spots for instant troubleshooting. Excellent resolution with over 49,000 pixels and your choice of three color palettes. The meter provides high and low temperature points, crosshairs to pinpoint specific temperatures, and options for temperature alarms.

MSRP: $778 Judges’ comments: And the app is free.

Trex: Trex Signature Decking

Key features: Using a different manufacturing process than any other Trex decking product, Signature features subtle graining and color richness to deliver the natural look of premium hardwoods. Engineered to withstand the elements and demands of the outdoors, this new line also represents Trex’s most durable and slip-resistant offering yet. Positioned as the brand’s top-of-the-line product, Trex Signature boards are available in two luxurious hues inspired by stunning natural settings - Ocracoke and Whidbey.

MSRP: $8 per linear foot Judges’ comments: Taking aesthetic authenticity to a whole new level.

Leviton: Decora Edge Wiring Devices

Key features: Innovative installation features such as color-coded lever terminals for faster, efficient wiring; a larger strap with a unique tongue and groove alignment feature for quicker trim out on multigang installations, and no exposed metal parts for safety. This patent-pending design also has a snap feature with an audible “click” so installers can be confident with every termination.

MSRP: $4.59 Judges’ comments: Proving that award-winning innovation can sell for less than five bucks.

26 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

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Milescraft: TrackSawGuide

Key features: Turns standard circular saws into a precision-guided track saw system.

Eliminate risky freehand cutting that can cost valuable time, money and frustration, not to mention injury. The universal base fits most circular saws with up to 7-1/4” blades.

Achieve perectly straight cuts for your project whether you are ripping sheets up to 50” long, cross cutting, or angle cutting.

MSRP: $99.99 Judges’ comments: Saves time, money, and even potentially, fingers.

MasonitePerformance Door System with M-Protect Security Lock

Key features: Provides protection from unwanted intrusion, whether by forced entry or the elements. This latest innovation from Masonite surpasses the highest levels of industry benchmark tests (including the ASTM F476-14 forced entry test standard) for security, enduring impacts of 480 joules and windspeeds of 200 mph.

MSRP: Starting at $600 Judges’ comments: Four times more resistant to forced entry than a fiberglass door with a standard deadbolt lock.

MoistureShield: MoistureShield Solid Core Railing

Key features: Adds sleek, contemporary edge to any deck design, with Cambridge or Classic style top rail options, in Matte Black or Matte Bronze powder-coated finish. The powder coat is rated more than three times the industry standard for durability and rust resistance, especially in harsh coastal conditions. Compass Rail kits feature pre-assembled panels with ProLock strips to ensure secure, screwless connections.

MSRP: Varies Judges’ comments: Code-approved everywhere, and comes with impressive transferable limited lifetime warranty.

CAMO (National Nail): CAMO Code-Compliant Structural Screw

Key features: These code-compliant structural screws are engineered to start fast, drive smooth, and hold strong—no pre-drilling required. They feature a proprietary coating for superior corrosion resistance. The coating meets or exceeds the protection of code-approved hot-dipped galvanized in-ground-contact general use pressure-treated lumber. This coating is tested 2X longer than industry standard, so contractors can be confident their connections will last.

MSRP: Varies Judges’ comments: Four coating layers work as a team to fend off corrosion.

Quality Craft: Blue Sky Outdoor Kitchens

Key features: Blue Sky’s Outdoor Kitchen cabinets in Slate Gray, offer a modern, functional storage to any exterior living space. A two-door cabinet features an innovative patented folding design that makes assembly quick and frustration-free.

Slate-gray tempered glass doors with brushed-aluminum handles and stainless-steel hinges, provide a modern, sleek style that compliments any home.

MSRP: $549.99 Judges’ comments: Weather-resistant storage for year-round home efficiency.

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March 2024

27

YellaWood® brand pressure treated products are treated with preservatives (the “Preservatives”) and preservative methods, and technologies of unrelated third parties. For details regarding the Preservatives, methods, and technologies used by Great Southern Wood Preserving, Incorporated, see www.yellawood.com/preservative or write us at P.O. Box 610, Abbeville, AL 36310. Ask dealer for warranty details.

Unrivaled dealer support comes from understanding a high-quality product means nothing if it means headaches to get it on your shelves. For over five decades now, we’ve built a trusted reputation for going above and beyond to deliver on the extras that make a difference. Like near-by facilities for timely product deliveries. A seasoned sales support team. Or stand-out advertising that drives higher demand for products. That’s just the beginning of a very long list that only we do. See all the other ways the YellaWood® brand has your back. Visit yellawood.com/for-dealers

For warranty or for important handling and other information concerning our products including the appropriate Safety Data Sheet (SDS), please visit us at www.yellawood.com/warranties or write us at P.O. Box 610, Abbeville, AL 36310. YellaWood and the yellow tag are federally registered trademarks of Great Southern Wood Preserving, Incorporated. All other marks are trademarks of their respective owners and are used with their permission.

Sakrete: Cold Weather Concrete Max

Key features: Sakrete Cold Weather Concrete Mix is the first concrete mix formulated to set in temperatures as low as zero degrees Fahrenheit, giving concrete pros the ability to pour year-round. This highly advanced formula is engineered to set in just one hour and achieves a final strength of over 8,000 psi with exceptional freeze-thaw resistance.

MSRP: $21.00 Judges’ comments: Temperatures below 40 degrees used to be a no-flow zone for concrete. Not anymore

ToughBuilt Industries: StackTech

Key features: A storage system built with an auto-locking interface ensures boxes seat securely, lock into place for transport, and easily unlock with a flick. Accessing tools is a breeze with a one-handed center latch, standard to every size toolbox, drawer, and compartment. Pros can load up to 500 pounds in seconds. Dual locking points provide enhanced security.

MSRP: $199.00 Judges’ comments: Nice touch is the telescoping rear handle that detaches quickly to fit into a truck bed.

WernerCo: The NXT1A Fiberglass single-sided Step Ladder

Key features: Werner rolled out a new visual safety system that impacts the NXT1A series of Fiberglass Stepladders. New icon and safety labels as well as standardized high-visibility tops and feet for step ladders are employed. High-visibility yellow at the tops of ladders provides long-range and roofline visibility across a jobsite. Plus, high-visibility feet draw peripheral vision to ladder feet to avoid kicks and trips.

MSRP: $99.97 Judges’ comments: Helping people chose the right ladder for the right job is a worthy innovation.

Simpson Strong-Tie: Timber Drive Structural Fastening System

Key features: Here’s the first semi-automated tool for standup operation while driving large structural screws.

Timber Drive is ideal for heavy-duty jobs requiring repetitive fastening, including decks, docks, boardwalks, piers and flooring. The ergonomic design makes it a faster, easier way to work — with less fatigue on knees, back and shoulders. Can be used with corded or cordless motors.

MSRP: Varies Judges’ comments: No special certification required to operate. Just do it.

Emser Tile: Empervious

Key features: This rigid waterproof shower system features a closed-cell XPS foam core and cement coating technology that when used with joint sealant produces a fully waterproof system allowing for same-day tile installation. The system allows for customization, accommodating virtually any size shower.

It also has a 10-year limited warranty.

MSRP: Varies Judges’ comments: Did we say “same day” tile?

Plus: Fewer installation steps than competing systems.

Woodland Tools Co.: 14’ Heavy Duty Tree Pruner

Key features: Here’s the ultimate DIY tree pruning tool, with a unique cutting mechanism that provides more power to slice through branches.

It features a patent-pending double-locking mechanism and cord-management system for safety and convenience, and a patent-pending pole shape for ultimate control.

MSRP: 79.99 Judges’ comments: Can’t beat a lifetime guarantee.

30 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

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Quality

SIDING

demands Quality

NAILS. Scan to find high quality Maze nails

Insist on Maze STORMGUARD® Double Hot-Dip Galvanized Nails!

LIFETIME WARRANTY | MADE IN THE U.S.A.

Fasteners Midwest value

Fasteners on the front lines THE INDUSTRY RESPONDS TO DEMANDS FOR FASTER, BE T TER, E ASIER.

By HBSDealer Staff

H

eading into the heart of 2024, uncertainty continues to cloud forecasts for the hardware and building supply industry. Among the questions: what will happen if interest rates stay where they are? And what if they drop precipitously?

Analysts have been describing an underbuilt housing market for years. Will demand finally break through this year, or next?

Those are just scratching the surface of uncertainties. But one thing is for sure. Home construction and remodeling goes nowhere without fasteners.

Looking at the big picture of residential construction, the last few years have had some ups and downs.

Kalamazoo, Michigan-based Midwest Fastener has grown since its founding in 1967 into a network of six distribution centers serving markets coast-to-coast. It is not finished growing, according to Nick Thies, construction fastener category marketing manager, who spoke to HBSDealer recently.

That growth will be driven by market knowledge and product innovation. Case in point: the BuildRight Contractor Pack, designed to tap the consumer demand for value.

“It’s a contractor screw that comes with a star drive and a self-drilling tip,” Thies explained. “The way we like to talk about it is: ‘It has everything a deck builder needs, and nothing the builder doesn’t need.’ It’s a very good screw, just not the best screw we have. The idea was We wanted to be able to fill that segment at that opening price point.”

The Contractor Pack was described as the biggest product line launch of the last year. “We take a tiered approach to the construction fastener segment where you’ve got your better and your best levels,” he said. “So, the contractor pack represents the better. It has performed very well from a metrics standpoint. One that I particularly like to share is the number of retailers that have embraced it. All the metrics have been promising and encouraging.”

Thies said the star drive, which has earned respect as a premium drive design, simply offers more points of contact between the screw and the driver. “The star drive is just going to really eliminate your cam outs and stripping of your bit,” Thies said. “You can run hundreds, even thousands of screws on a single bit before any type of failure. We’ve done it here in testing and I’ve done it personally.”

Expansion plans YEAR

TOTAL STARTS

1-FAM STARTS

2019

1,290,000

887,000

2020

1,379,600

990,500

2021

1,601,000

1,272,200

2022

1,552,600

1,005,200

2023

1,419,900

947,200

Against this backdrop, some fastener manufacturers are stepping up at the jobsite and beyond to provide the products, the innovation and the support to make every job and every project come together better, faster or more efficiently.

32 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

Scott Park, director, fastening systems for Simpson Strong-Tie, confirmed that structural fastening continues to grow each year, and. the company takes very seriously its role as innovation leader.

In addition to seeking durable products that get the job done right, contractors today are also looking for fast and easy installation. Examples include the Timber Drive, the Quik Stik and the Strong-Drive SDWS Timber screw (an alternative to through-bolting and traditional lag screws).

The company is also investing in its ability to

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TRUSS • FRAMING LEDGER • MULTI-PLY MULTI-PURPOSE STRUCTURAL SCREWS

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Partner with CAMO to build your business like a beast.

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Fasteners deliver, expanding to new warehouses in key locations to have product closer to customers. Simpson Strong-Tie recently opened Salt Lake City, Denver and Kent, Wash. DCs. It’s also expanding in Columbus, Ohio and Gallatin, Tenn.

“Beyond labor shortage questions, customers want to be confident that the product that they need—or is in the plan— will be available to them,” stated Park.

“We want to be the leader in pro-grade construction fastening, and we’re putting the resources behind it,” Park adds. “As construction expands, we are investing.

One area where we are investing is mass timber. We’re investing in that market and creating new products around it because it is an up-and-coming industry that has been big in Europe for some time. We want to be the partner of choice for the mass timber industry.”

FastenMaster, a division of OMG, says it is focused on faster, better and easier solutions for pros.

A few examples include its stalwart LOK line of fasteners that has replaced traditional bolts with faster and easier installation alternatives. Its stand-up tools are designed to not only make new construction safer and more efficient, but also ergonomically correct for better long-term health. And its line of decking and trim solutions, including Cortex, help pros save valuable time while meeting code.

Fastenating products

National Nail/CAMO

CAMO: Contractors can achieve a fastener-free system on square decking with this easy and affordable hidden fastening system. Marksman tools automatically establish spacing between boards and direct CAMO Edge screws into the edge of the board, leaving a fastener-free deck surface.

Educated consumers

By actively listening to its pros, FastenMaster says it has helped contractors achieve great success by offering them the very best solutions in the market, according to Web Shaffer, senior vice president and general manager. “We firmly believe that one size does not fit all, and we have developed the LOK line of task-specific structural fasteners to meet specific application requirements,” Shaffer said. “Additionally, we are educators. We help many small businesses by showing them better options and faster, safer and better alternatives for their projects.

At SPAX, recent additions to the product portfolio include: deck tape and board spacers along with composite deck screws in 7 colors to match all the popular exterior board manufacturers’ products.

“Aesthetics of outdoor experiences has driven fastener manufacturers to provide fasteners with different and more matching color schemes of project materials,” said SPAX Project Manager Robert Yates.

“For example many pergola builds now are utilizing black bracketry and hardware. Also, deck boards both wood and composites require color matching for the best possible aesthetics on the project.”

Yates offers the following advice to prodealers to focus on: “Take the time to review the structural fastener manufactures offering and make sure the products have accessible data reports and application TER’s, plus wire certifications used during the manufacturing process.”

34 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

Simpson Strong-Tie

Timber Drive is a tool for stand-up operation while driving large structural screws, said Simpson Strong-Tie’s Scott Park. “It’s designed for heavy-duty jobs that require repetitive fastening, such as boardwalks and piers, that require hundreds of structural screws.”

The ergonomic design of Timber Drive makes it faster and easier to work while improving safety. Key features include fastener length adjustment for 3- to 6-1/4-inch screws.

HBSDealer.com

Heavy-duty fastening just got easier.

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Fasteners

Big Timber CTX lag screws

Heat treated & hardened, these screws are stronger and more durable than ordinary lag screws. A built-on round washer head with smooth edges gives a professional finish.

Offers 1200-Hour corrosion resistance in both ACQ and salt spray conditions. Deep, wide, sharp threads provide maximum holding power; cut cleanly and easily.

Fastenmaster VersaLok

No pre-drilling required. Installs in a fraction of the time versus traditional bolts with fewer steps and less effort. The flat head installs flush, saving additional time and money. Plus, gain stronger bit engagement with the TORX ttap drive system.

Tested and supported by engineering data that conforms to the most current ICC standards. It is also approved for use in ACQ or treated lumber.

Hillman Maze

Maze Nails, the company that brings 175 years of history to the industry, offers a painted-nail program that brings richness, sophistication and eye-appeal to all building. And, the program saves time by eliminating the labor-intensive job of touching up nail heads.

Checkered nail heads and oven-curing enhance paint adhesion. Also, the process produces consistent colors. And Maze has the ability to match all paint manufacturers’ colors.

Lumbertite Structural Screws are heavy duty flat head screws crafted for general wood-to-wood construction without pre-drilling. A recent addition to Hillman’s Power Pro family of fasteners, they require no pre-drilling and have an innovative thread design that provides 30% faster installation.

The durable epoxy coating provides 4 layers of corrosion protection.

SPAX

SPAX T-STAR Trim Head fasteners with HCR coating are intended for connections in exterior composite deck board finishing applications when attaching to treated lumber joists. These fasteners are designed with an undercut head for preventing mushrooming and also provide a clean finish into composite deck boards.

36 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

HBSDealer.com

META L CO NN ECTIN G MADE CO R DL ESS NEW!

CORDLESS 1½” POSITIVE PLACEMENT®

METAL CONNECTOR NAILER

• Qu ick ly an d a c c u r a t e l y locat e h ol e s wi t h t h e Pos it iv e P l a c e m e n t ® p r o b e

P r o d u c t P ag e

• L igh t w e igh t a n d c o m p a c t de s ign for e a s y u s e o v e r h ead an d in t ig h t s p a c e s • M ov e fre e l y t h r o u g h t h e j o b w it h ou t a h o s e o r c o m p r e ssor D e m o V ide o

Do It Best Report

‘Extraordinary opportunities’ await in Houston

F

ort Wayne, Indiana-based Do it Best will host its highly anticipated spring market in Houston, March 23-25.

The company will welcome member-owners, prospective members, and a record number of vendors, all eager to explore the theme of ‘Leveraging Data for Success.’

“Our spring market is a strategic platform for our members to harness the power of data, driving sustainable business growth,” said President & CEO Dan Starr. “And with new vendor partnerships, exclusive purchasing opportunities, and outstanding educational seminars, it’s clear we’re the first and best partner to propel sustained business growth while achieving industry-wide success.”

During the market, Do it Best will unveil two new groundbreaking, technology-based tools to drive member growth.

These tools will allow members to quickly and easily enhance operational efficiencies and optimize inventory management

with unprecedented accuracy.

Other market highlights will include a supersized Sneak Peek event with 33% more participating vendors, a high-energy, high-impact Merchandising Preview event that highlights vendor- exclusive products and specials, and more.

Additionally, participants can take advantage of more than 30 free seminars led by industry experts.

Topics will include leveraging technology, gaining industry knowledge, increasing sales, enhancing operational excellence, and building on management skills—all designed to build member-know-how for optimal business performance.

“There will be extraordinary opportunities for Do it Best members to capitalize on the momentum we’ve cultivated throughout the past few years,” said Starr.

Scenes from Do it Best’s 2024 Spring Market.

The theme of this year’s market in Houston: “Leveraging Data for Success.

38 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

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Do it Best sharpens e-commerce focus HARDWARE CO-OPER ATIVE MAKES LE ADERSHIP MOVES IN DIGITAL.

D

o it Best has named Allison Flatjord as the company’s VP of marketing and e-commerce, aligning two key divisions under single leadership.

Also, the company promoted Corbin Prows to divisional manager of e-commerce platform operations, and Brianna Wells to divisional manager of e-commerce, marketing, and merchandising.

“Allison’s deep understanding of e-commerce, marketing, and brand building make her the ideal choice to lead these combined divisions,” said Dan Starr, president and CEO. In her new role, said the company, she will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of marketing while maintaining a focus on online sales and integrating digital strategies to enhance brand visibility and customer engagement.

“The merging of marketing and e-commerce reflects our commitment to meeting the evolving needs of our members and their customers in a digital-first world. I look forward to leading this talented team and driving innovation,” she said.

Flatjord’s accomplishments in her previous role as the e-commerce division VP include launching a best-in-class ecommerce platform in an aggressive timeframe, migrating hundreds of member-owner microsites, and growing ecommerce sales.

Flatjord brings more than 20 years of experience in marketing and e-commerce at national online retailers and Fortune 500 companies.

This initiative marks a significant step in the company’s ongoing efforts to streamline operations and enhance its digital presence in the ever-evolving marketplace.

“Under her guidance, we are confident that Do it Best and our member-owners will continue to thrive in a highly competitive landscape,” said Starr.

Two key divisions are aligning under Allison Flatjord.

HBSDealer.com

Corbin Prows and Brianna Wells are stepping up to larger roles in e-commerce.

Corbin Prows and Brianna Wells named divisional managers of e-commerce.

Prows takes over as divisional manager of e-commerce platform operations, and Wells as divisional manager of e-commerce, marketing, and merchandising.

He moves into his role with more than 20 years of experience in e-commerce, marketing, tech development, and program management.

Most recently, Prows served as the Do it Best e-commerce development manager where he successfully launched a best-in-class platform in a much shorter period than it typically takes, said the firm.

Before joining the Do it Best team as a marketing retail programs manager in 2013, he worked as director of marketing management for a telecommunications company focused on revenue-generating programs.

Wells joined Do it Best in 2022 as an e-commerce marketing manager, and she was soon promoted to e-commerce marketing and content manager where she merchandised, sourced, and maintained product content for the company’s new ecommerce platform.

Since her involvement, said the company, the availability of high-quality content has increased from 150,000 visible products to 1.62 million, opening new opportunities for Do it Best members to display all the products they sell in-store.

Wells got her start in the e-commerce industry while working as a product development and photography manager for a national online retailer.

These two “digital-focused team members,” said Do it Best, “will ensure the company maintains its relentless focus on e-commerce.”

SUPPLY DEALER

March 2024

39

Do It Best Report

The backstory

Lauren Melancon Guidry, left, and Vanessa Melancon Pierce, hardware store owners. They recently added large equipment rentals to their inventory.

Certified: Melaco Sisters Hardware

M

elaco Sisters Hardware and Supplies, a Do it Best dealer, has received national certification as a Women’s Business Enterprise by the Women’s Business Enterprise Council South, a regional certifying partner of the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC).

“We are so proud to make this announcement,” said Vanessa Pierce, owner. “Becoming WBENC Certified was always part of our business plan, and we are excited to work with this organization, as well as other members.”

Melaco Sisters, located in Cut Off, Louisiana, a town of about 5,000 on the Bayou Lafourche south of New Orleans, was founded in 2018 by sisters Vanessa Melancon Pierce and Lauren Melancon Guidry.

Melaco Sisters Hardware & Supplies is a 23,000 square foot retail hardware store devoted to the South Lafourche community they serve.

As third-generation leaders of their family’s offshore service vessel company, the sisters said they, “blazed our own trail in another industry, keeping in mind the needs of our family business.”

At their hardware store, with a focus on customer service, the team prides itself in assisting homeowners, contractors, commercial fishermen, oil companies, and others with any project.

“WBENC Certification is the gold standard for wom-

40 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

A 2019 article in Hardware & Building Supply Dealer described the Melaco sisters’ move from the liftboat business to the hardware business: Cases of two sisters entering the hardware business are rare. Rarer still are sisters in the energy services industry. “We’re coming from a business where my sister and I own the only woman-owned and operated lift boat company in the country, a predominantly male driven business from all sides,” Vanessa said. “We had seriously been immersed in a truly male-driven, good-ol’-boys-club kind of industry. It was a constant test of, ‘do you really know what you’re doing?’

“Coming into hardware was very different.

And the first time we went to the [Do it Best Market], we walked in and, yes, there were a lot of men. But then, we also saw women and children, and hardware seems to be more of a family business,” she said.

en-owned business certification in the U.S.” said Melaco Sisters Hardware.

The company said that the WBENC standard of certification implemented by the Women’s Business Enterprise Council South is a meticulous process, including an indepth review of the business and a site inspection.

The certification process is designed to confirm the business is at least 51% owned, operated, and controlled by a woman or women, and that the business has appropriate structure and strategic business planning and implementation in place, said the firm.

Including women-owned businesses among their suppliers demonstrates their commitment to fostering diversity and the continued development of their supplier diversity programs.

“This in turn empowers women as leaders and brings about a more diverse, balanced and sustainable economy,” they said.

Melaco Sisters Hardware and Supplies in Cut Off, Louisiana, serves a bayou community of 5,000.

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You can’t stop time, but you can save it.

DMSi Frameworks Built for dealers like you. dmsi.com/frameworks

Market Insights

At LMC: the eagle has landed

By Andy Carlo Visitors to LMC’s headquarters in Wayne, Pa., are now greeted by a sculpted, patriotic presence.

The piece depicts a five-foot-high eagle with its wings outstretched. The piece was hand-carved by craftsman Edward Halbert from Kansas City.

Regarding the new addition, the lumber and building materials buying group said, “A fitting medium for one of the largest co-operatives in the lumber and building industry, the eagle is also a symbol of LMC’s position in the industry.

“It not only pays homage to LMC Dealers, who stand as pillars of leadership

in the industry, but it also symbolizes their collective strength and the commitment of the entire LMC Team,” said Fran Monk, LMC vice president of marketing.

“Like eagles soaring high, we are dedicated to providing exceptional service to our members.”

LMC acquired the eagle through a silent auction at the 2023 ProDealer Industry Summit held in Kansas City, Missouri in October 2023 and hosted by HBSDealer and the National Lumber and Building Material Dealers Association (NLBMDA).

Brett Hanson of South Dakota-based Tristate Building Center donated the eagle to the auction.

Proceeds from the auction supported the NLBMDA Political Action Committee (LUDPAC), which lobbies for lumber and building material dealers and promotes the industry’s

42 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

agenda on Capitol Hill.

LMC asked its entire dealer base to suggest a meaningful name for the new addition to LMC headquarters. Several returned the name “Buckley,” which ultimately won the vote from LMC staff.

The name is derived from LMC cofounder James L. Buckley, who initially pitched the idea of a lumber co-operative to Fred Kessler, the president of Central Lumber Company in 1935.

LMC asked its entire dealer base to suggest a meaningful name for the new addition to LMC headquarters. Several returned the name “Buckley,” which ultimately won the vote from LMC staff.

The name is derived from LMC cofounder James L. Buckley, who initially pitched the idea of a lumber co-operative to Fred Kessler, the president of Central Lumber Company in 1935.

HBSDealer.com

HPM Building Supply plans to expand Hawaiian prodealer HPM Building Supply has announced the expansion of its retail operations with a new store and drive-through lumberyard on L na‘i.

The 5,000-square foot space was previously known as L na‘i Hardware and Lumber store, which closed in 2023 when its former operators retired.

HPM said the store is currently being renovated and is slated to open this April.

“The expansion to the beautiful island of L na‘i marks an exciting new chapter

HBSDealer.com

HPM operates 19 locations, including this one in Kona.

for HPM as we introduce our company to the community of L na‘i and serve their needs,” says Jason Fujimoto, HPM chairman and CEO. “This opportunity allows us to provide valuable resources, a wide range of products, and diverse materials to a unique market like L na‘i and we look forward to developing a collaborative relationship with its residents and businesses.”

Early plans for the new retail space include the addition of live plants sourced from landowner P lama L na‘i’s nursery.

HPM core products such as lumber, plywood, hardware, power tools, paint, plumbing and electrical supplies, as well as flooring will be in stock.

New retail options include pet food and supplies and various seasonal products.

Custom-ordering will also be available for L na‘i customers who wish to purchase specialty lumber, windows, doors, cabinets, window coverings, and manufactured products, like HPM’s Custom Metal Roofing.

HPM plans to engage the L na‘i community, as well as current team members, in its recruitment efforts for the new store.

The company operates 19 locations across Hawai‘i Island, Maui, O‘ahu, Kaua‘i, L na‘i, and Washington state.

HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER March 2024

43

Market Insights

From IBM to LBM and beyond LBM ADVANTAGE’S STE VE SALL AH PL ANS TO RE TIRE IN AUGUST.

S

tephen Sallah plans to retire from his role as CEO of LBM Advantage, the New Windsor, New York-based LBM co-op.

He will remain in his post until August.

Sallah made official his decision to retire during a shareholder meeting at the co-op’s 2024 Annual Buying Show in Orlando. The search process has begun for his replacement, and it will include internal and external candidates.

Sallah replaced Russ Kennedy as CEO of the co-op back in 2011 when it was known as ENAP (the initials for “everyone needs a profit.”) He had been chief financial officer since 2008.

The co-op hopes to have a replacement lined up

by April or May. “There will be a lot of candidates applying,” Sallah told HBSDealer. “I think it’s a pretty well-known position, especially within the industry. And I think

44 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

HBSDealer.com

“There will be a lot of candidates applying. I think it's a pretty well-known position, especially within the industry.

And I think it's a great job, and a great industry.”

—Steve Sallah, LBM Advantage

it’s a great job, and a great company.”

Prior to his service with ENAP, Sallah spent 16 years at IBM as division controller and in other marketing and operational roles.

He started his career with the U.S. Navy and served for nine years in active duty as a submarine officer and is a retired Commander in the Naval Reserve.

Under Sallah, the co-op underwent significant changes. It merged with PAL (Progressive Affiliated Lumbermen) in 2016, and the combined organization changed its name to LBM Advantage.

In 2017, LBM Advantage grew again with the merger with Independent Builders Supply Association (IBSA).

Today, the co-op includes about 525 dealer members and some 1,400 lumberyard locations. LBM Advantage extends into 46 states.

“We had one of more successful recruiting years last year,” Sallah said, pointing to 24 new members. “We’re in 46 states and

LBM Advantage CEO Steve Sallah spent nine years as a U.S Navy submarine officer.

we should be in 50 by the end of this year. And we’re going to continue to press that as well help our members expand.”

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Regulatory Update renovation, our policy agenda highlights common sense areas for Congress and the White House to work together to boost investments in residential construction, strengthen the national housing market, and create more jobs across the country.”

Here are some priorities in the agenda and examples of where the NLBMDA stands on current issues: Housing & Construction: NLBMDA will continue to work with policymakers to support responsible lending practices that promote and preserve the value of home ownership. NLBMDA supports reinstating higher conforming loan limits for Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and Federal Housing Administration insured home loans to ensure greater mortgage liquidity and to provide greater certainty for the housing market.

NLBMDA 2024 National Policy Agenda THE LBM ASSOCIATION DE TAILS WHERE IT STANDS ON ISSUES IMPACTING DE ALERS.

By Andy Carlo

T

Tax & Economic Policy: NLBMDA supports the mortgage interest deduction and its role in encouraging home ownership. NLBMDA opposes increases to personal income tax rates and changes to the section 199A qualified business income deduction included in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. NLBMDA opposes limits to the state and local tax (SALT) deduction that increases taxes for individuals in high-cost areas.

Product Supply & Trade: To bring stability and predictability to the pricing and availability of softwood lumber without the imposition of duties, the NLBMDA supports reaching an agreement on the longstanding U.S.-Canadian softwood lumber dispute.

he National Lumber & Building Legal Reform & Consumer ProtecMaterial Dealers Association (NLBtion: The association supports the conMDA) has issued its 2024 National tinuation of debit card swipe fee reforms Policy Agenda. that have created real economic savings The agenda is a comprehensive for building material dealers and their advocacy platform that outlines key priorities for the customers. It further supports legislative lumber and building material dealer industry in the efforts to implement similar swipe fee coming year, the NLBMDA said. reforms for credit card transactions.

The 22-page document builds off of last year’s vision for growth by implementing new Workforce Policy: The association safeguards for LBM dealers. This includes said it remains concerned about meetregulatory overreach by the federal goving the burdensome requirements of ernment, strengthening capitalistic market the Affordable Care Act and supports incentives to prevent the largest credit reforms that reduce its impact on The NLBMDA 2024 card companies from price gouging LBM dealers employers’ ability to provide required National Policy Agenda and their customers, adding protections for LBM benefi t levels to employees. Also, NLBMDA dealers to access bank capital that allows them to supports proposals that expand vocational reinvest in their business and employees, and streamlining training, apprenticeships and work-based learning federal regulations to amplify market access to timber and the while supporting laws that provide vocational trainoverall building material supply chain. ing for prisoners to fill in-demand jobs.

“NLBMDA members are essential to the U.S. economy and the dream of homeownership,” said Jonathan Paine, president Visit Dealer.org for the NLBMDA’s entire and CEO of the NLBMDA. “At a time when the housing industry National Policy Agenda. faces significant barriers to new construction, development and

46 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

HBSDealer.com

People In News

Kodiak Building Partners has promoted Matt LaScola to senior vice president of corporate strategy and real estate. In ths new role, LaScola will expand Kodiak’s acquisition and planning teams, layLaScola McCurty ing the foundation for growth through acquisitions. Darius McCurty has been promoted to senior vice president and corporate controller. Kodiak said that McCurty will play a key role in the establishment of Kodiak’s new “Continuous Improvement initiative.”

Huss Bride Brian Huss has been named senior vice president, finance, and treasurer. Huss will oversee risk management, including all liability insurance and safety programs, a strategic move that aligns seamlessly with the natural fit of risk management under the treasury function to foster better integration of risk assessment and data analysis. Also, Monte Bride has been promoted to the role of vice president of marketing. Bride’s strategic leadership and impactful initiatives have played a crucial role in shaping Kodiak’s marketing function, driving the company’s market presence and strategic positioning, the company said.

Spahn & Rose Lumber Co. has named Lori Hoffman as its new vice president of human resources.

Hoffmann brings more than 20 years of human resources leadership to Iowa-based Hoffman Johanson Spahn & Rose. Also, Ivy Su Johanson has been named as the new director of purchasing. Johanson is a seasoned purchasing specialist with more than 16 years of experience, the company said.

STIHL Inc. has named Eric Bjorling vice president of marketing. The company said Bjorling will be responsible for leading the development of U.S. brand and retail marketing communications strategies including national advertising programs, public relations, merchandising, and national brand programs.

Bjorling

Rivas

Tyndale Advisors, the wholly-owned subsidiary and marketing arm of Orgill, Inc., has announced the promotion of Jim Rivas to president of Tyndale Advisors. In his most recent role as the director of retail technology at Orgill, said the company, Rivas helped move the company to the forefront of industry innovation. He also managed Orgill’s retail operations and technology solutions consulting.

48 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

Jeld-Wen has named Gustavo Vianna as executive vice president and president of Jeld-Wen Europe. Vianna joins JELD-WEN with more than 30 years of experience at multinational companies. Dan Valenti has been appointed executive vice president, North America doors & distribution. Valenti brings more than two decades of Vianna general management, sales and operations leadership experience. Matt Meier has been named executive vice president and chief digital and information officer.

Anna Russo, left, will take over for the retiring Wendy Scribner at Casco, Maine-based Hancock Lumber.

Hancock Lumber announced today that Chief People Officer Wendy Scribner is set to retire in April following nearly 40-years at the company. With the retirement scheduled, Hancock Lumber aka “Team Hancock” also announced that Anna Russo will succeed Scribner.

The Casco, Maine-based prodealer said, “After a career spanning nearly four decades and a range of roles, it’s hard to adequately describe the impact Wendy has had on the organization and the gratitude the company has for her contributions. Hancock Lumber truly has been blessed to have Wendy Scribner on their team.” Hancock Lumber noted that Scribner’s decision was based on wanting to spend more time with her family, including four grandsons.

Scribner also spearheaded the search for her successor while bringing the dealer’s executive team “incredible final candidates.” Team Hancock said "it is thrilled" to announce Russo is the company’s incoming chief people officer. Russo officially joined Hancock Lumber last month. Russo began her human resources career at Hancock Lumber when she was hired by Scribner in 2000 during the company’s Bethel mill acquisition and transition. After eight years in HR—ultimately serving as the sawmill’s human resources manager—Russo moved on from Hancock Lumber on a path that led her to a variety of roles in human resources including HR Director, Safety Compliance Officer, and HR Senior Business Partner with several companies throughout Maine.

HBSDealer.com

Monthly Retail Sales, not adjusted

Residential Construction/Sales 13 months of housing starts and existing-home sales

home centers and pro dealers (NAICS 444) and hardware stores (NAICS 44413)

Total starts

NAICS 444 (sales in $ billions)

(in thousands, SAAR) Jan: 1,331,000

NAICS 44413 (sales in $ billions)

50

1800

4

1700

40

1600

40.9

40.0

35.4

30

1400

3.40

3.27

3

39.2 37.0

1500

3.3

3.27

3.19

3.3

33.1 2

1300

20

1200 1100

1

10

1000

0

900

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

J

SOURCE: COMMERCE DEPARTMENT

NOVEMBER 2022

Single-family starts

2023

DECEMBER

0

JANUARY

2024

OCTOBER 2022

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

2023

SOURCE: MONTHLY RETAIL TRADE REPORT FROM THE U.S. CENSUS BUREAU

(in thousands, SAAR) Jan.: 1,004,000 1400

HBSDealer Stock Roundup

1300

the percent-change performance of stocks based on Feb. 22 prices

1200 1100

150

1000

BLDR

900 800

120

600

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

ANNUAL CHANGE

700

J

SOURCE: COMMERCE DEPARTMENT

Existing-home sales (in millions, SAAR) Jan.: 4,000,000 7

90

60 BECN

SHW

6.5

30

6

DJI

5.5

0 -8

5

WY

SWK -7

-6 -5

-4

-3 -2 -1

0

1

HD

TSCO 2

3

MAS

LOW 4

5

6

7

8

4.5

MONTHLY CHANGE

4 3.5

BECN (BEACON); BLDR (BUILDERS FIRSTSOURCE); BMCH (BMC STOCK HOLDINGS); MAS (MASCO CORP.);

J

F

M

A

M

J

J

A

S

O

N

D

J

HD (HOME DEPOT); LOW (LOWE’S); SHW (SHERWIN-WILLIAMS); SWK (STANLEY); TSCO (TRACTOR SUPPLY);

SOURCE: NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS

WY (WEYERHAEUSER); DJIA (DOW JONES INDUSTRIAL AVERAGE)

Consumer Watch Unemployment rate

Consumer confidence

Gas prices

for the entire United States

indexed to a value of 100 in 1985

average price per gallon (regular)

8.0

10.0

12.0

4.0

80

Current Prior month

120

Prior year

16.0

3.7%

18.0

January 0.0

$4.00 $3.00

14.0

6.0

2.0

100

20.0

60

114.7

$3.27

January

Feb. 22

50 March 2024 HARDWARE + BUILDING SUPPLY DEALER

140

$2.00

$5.00

SOURCES: LABOR DEPARTMENT, THE CONFERENCE BOARD, AAA

HBSDealer.com