Uniting the Channel at the 2025 IHI Conference
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Policies to Streamline Customer Returns and Mitigate Costs Page 18 Move Impulse Products With Eye-Catching Displays
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Uniting the Channel at the 2025 IHI Conference
Page 24
Policies to Streamline Customer Returns and Mitigate Costs Page 18 Move Impulse Products With Eye-Catching Displays
Page 34
Old Masters offers solutions for both interior and exterior clear finishes. Our advanced water-based technology delivers finishes with excellent clarity, easy application, fast dry, and superior durability.
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1025 E. 54th St. Indianapolis, Indiana 317-275-9400
NHPA@YourNHPA.org YourNHPA.org
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ASSOCIATION PROGRAMS
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SALES
Greg Cole
317-775-2206 | gcole@YourNHPA.org National Sales Manager
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CIRCULATION, SUBSCRIPTION & LIST RENTAL INQUIRIES
CIRCULATION DIRECTOR
Richard Jarrett, 314-432-7511, Fax: 314-432-7665 gcscs8@gmail.com
OUR MISSION
The North American Hardware and Paint Association (NHPA) helps independent home improvement, paint and decorating retailers, regardless of affiliations, become better and more profitable retailers.
Earlier this year, the North American Hardware and Paint Association (NHPA) released its Merchandising for Profit Study, which shared the sales lift generated by different merchandising techniques. Next month, Paint & Decorating Retailer takes a closer look at some of these merchandising techniques—specifically endcaps and promotional areas—and the ways retailers can strengthen these areas in their operations to improve customer service and boost sales.
PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER
(ISSN 1096-6927): Published monthly except December by the North American Hardware and Paint Association, 1025 E. 54th St., Indianapolis, IN 46220. Phone: 800-737-0107. Subscription rates: January through November issues, $50 in U.S., payable in advance. Canada $75 per year. All other countries $100 per year. Single copy $7, except July issue, $25. Periodicals postage paid at Indianapolis, Indiana, and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to Paint & Decorating Retailer, P.O. Box 16709, St. Louis, MO 63105-1209. Returns (Canada): Return undeliverable magazines to P.O. Box 2600, Mississauga, Ontario L4T 0A8. PM# 41450540. Copyright © North American Hardware and Paint Association, 2024.
NHPA EXECUTIVE STAFF
Bob Cutter President & CEO
Dan Tratensek
Chief Operating Officer
David Gowan
Chief Financial Officer & Executive Vice President, Business Services
Scott Wright Vice President of Content Development & Publisher
NHPA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
Ned Green, Weider’s Paint & Hardware, Rochester, New York
EXECUTIVE VICE CHAIRMAN
Joanne Lawrie, Annapolis Home Hardware Building Centre, Annapolis Royal, Nova Scotia DIRECTORS
Alesia Anderson, Handy Ace Hardware, Tucker, Georgia
Jay Donnelly, Flanagan Paint & Supply, Ellisville, Missouri
Ash Ebbo, Clement’s Paint, Austin, Texas Christian Herrick, Randy’s Do it Best Hardware, Jackson, Virginia
Michelle Meny, Meny’s True Value, Jasper, Indiana
Michael Sacks, FLC Holdings, LaGrange, Texas
SECRETARY-TREASURER
Bob Cutter, NHPA President & CEO
NHPA CANADA
EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT
Rebekah Doerksen Supply-Build Canada
Direct: 204.953.1692 | Cell: 204.990.3536 Toll-Free: 1.800.661.0253 ext. 103 102-226
Happy Returns
Offering a seamless return policy while still keeping down costs and avoiding fraud can be a challenging balancing act for retailers. Hear from several retailers who shared their return policies and the ways they have found to mitigate fraud and keep customers satisfied.
What’s Driving DIYers
Home project activity dipped for the third quarter in a row, but demand for DIY help remains steady. Find out what’s motivating homeowners and how to meet their needs.
INDUSTRY EVENTS
Learning Meets Leisure
Bringing together the independent channel, the 2025 Independent Home Improvement Conference promises to deliver ROI for your operation.
A New Way to Serve
Growing up in a military family, Chris McDaniel, this month’s Helmet to Home Improvement honoree, joined the U.S. Air Force after 9/11 with a desire to help others.
See how one retailer uses eye-catching signs, strategic placement and rotating deals to keep impulse items moving off the shelves.
CONNECTIONS
How to Reach Dan
dant@YourNHPA.org
Dan Tratensek
DO YOU EVER LOOK AROUND , whether it be at people in the news, celebrities, friends or fellow business owners and wonder: how did they become so successful?
I think we all do it, and I’m not talking about the snotty, “how did that no-talent hack end up starring in a blockbuster movie” kind of way. I mean when you are looking at someone and honestly admiring all they have been able to accomplish and perhaps wondering, “What do they do that I don’t?”
Throughout my time in this industry, I have been fortunate to work with some of these high achievers—the business owners and managers who truly set themselves and their operations apart from the field.
Over this time, I have come to notice some traits that most of these high-intensity operators share.
First: most of these folks aren’t scared of working really hard. I talk about this a lot when I am giving a presentation. Poring over sales reports, crunching numbers and drafting and re-drafting growth plans aren’t easy things to work into your schedule. They are hard, but this group of successful, progressive business owners make the time to do it.
“One of the best ways to achieve this progress is to look at what other, already successful operators are doing and emulate them.”
Second: they are never content with the status quo. They are constantly looking to take their operations to the next level and spend more time on this planning than they do on making excuses about why they can’t grow.
Lastly, and perhaps the most important trait of all the three: they are ravenous when it comes to learning.
Whenever I meet with one of these retailers, they can tell you about the latest books they read, courses they took, shows they went to and seminars they attended. Amid the day-to-day pressures of running their businesses, planning for growth and balancing a family life, they all take time to learn and grow.
It’s probably why every time I go to a show, NHPA launches a new program or holds a conference, we see the same group of progressive retailers among the first in line. They all deeply understand how important it is to uncover new ideas, gain insight from others and dedicate themselves to becoming better at their vocation, regardless of the level of success they have attained.
Later this month, I will likely see many of these retailers at the Independent Home Improvement Conference in Orlando (IHIconference.org). In fact, many of these individuals or representatives from their companies are already signed up to attend.
So this begs the question: if the most progressive, most successful business managers in the industry can find the time, invest the resources and break free from their office to attend an event like this, shouldn’t retailers who are aspiring to improve their operations do the same?
I know a standard response to this admonition might be, “I don’t have the time,” or “I don’t know if it’s a good investment,” but again, taking your business from average to high-performing isn’t easy. One of the best ways to achieve this progress is to look at what other, already successful operators are doing and emulate them.
Dan M. Tratensek Chief Operating Officer
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Orgill stocks more than 80,000+ items in warehouse and continually works to find new and popular products and brands, helping retailers stay current and competitive.
CONNECTIONS
How to Reach Lindsey lthompson@YourNHPA.org Lindsey Thompson
MY DAUGHTER LIESL started driving a few months ago, which has been game-changing in many ways, but one of the ways I appreciate the most is being able to send her to run errands for me.
A few weeks ago, I had a pair of pants that needed to go back to Old Navy, and I asked Liesl if she would take them back for me. The look of horror that came across her face was funny but convicting. I realized that she had the same fear I did. I didn’t have time to take the pants back, but if I was being honest, I didn’t want to have to deal with the return and was going to push it off on her.
Take an Amazon return back to a UPS store or Kohl’s? No problem. I show them my phone, they scan the QR code and take my item, and I leave. But having to return to an associate at a store? No thanks. For some reason, I always feel bad returning something even though I’ve only ever returned items legitimately and almost always with a receipt. I don’t want to inconvenience the associate, even though I logically know it’s their job, and I feel irresponsible for having to return something. I asked Liesl why she didn’t want to return my pants either, and she shared the same reasoning. We would both rather eat the cost rather than (perceivably) inconvenience someone or feel uncomfortable.
“ Customer expectations when it comes to returns seem to continually change, and retailers struggle to keep customers happy while still protecting their bottom lines.”
Coincidentally, when this whole exchange happened, I was in the middle of working on this month’s feature story on customer return policies (Page 18). I learned that returns can be just as stressful for businesses, albeit for much more logical reasons. Customer expectations when it comes to returns seem to continually change, and retailers struggle to keep customers happy while still protecting their bottom lines.
Fortunately, several retailers were willing to share their best practices and insights on customer returns for my story, which I think will be helpful, whether you are looking to improve your own customer return policies or are needing to build policies from scratch. They offer practical tips for taking the stress out of returns for customers and associates and share why it’s important to have policies in place to avoid unnecessary costs.
While I didn’t take those pants back myself—Liesl was kind enough to handle that task for me—after learning more about the lengths retailers are going to make returns easier on both sides, I feel much more confident that I can handle that errand myself next time.
Here’s to many happy returns!
Lindsey Thompson Managing Editor
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Join us at the 2025 Independent Home Improvement Conference to honor the this year’s Young Retailer of the Year honorees. Learn more at IHIconference.org
Jared Brown is a director with The Aubuchon Co. He has a degree in kinesiology and biomechanics from Miami University and came to Aubuchon in 2015 from the banking world. Jared grew up in Ohio and moved to Massachusetts in 2012, where he currently lives with his wife and daughter. At Aubuchon, he is involved in inventory planning and forecasting, margin management, retail pricing, process improvement and operations. Jared has been integral in streamlining and modernizing Aubuchon’s inventory management strategies after the company closed its distribution operations and transitioned to a supplier-based model.
CONNECT
Email jared.brown@aubuchon.com
LinkedIn Jared Brown
To the newest Young Retailer of the Year nominees and honorees alike: First of all—congratulations! Whether your name is on the plaque or in the finalist list, this recognition means someone saw a glimpse of who you are, and maybe more importantly, who you might become. That matters.
But here’s the part that doesn’t always get said: This isn’t a finish line, it’s a green light. Your accomplishments and engagement got you nominated, but that’s just the foundation. What you build on top of it is what really counts.
It’s easy to feel like awards come with the expectation that you’ve “figured it all out.” You haven’t—and you’re not supposed to. What matters now is what you build next. The drive, the vision, the hard-earned results—those haven’t crowned you. They’ve simply earned you the chance to go further.
The truth is, the best leadership rarely comes from a title. It comes from people who take ownership where others hesitate, who ask better questions, who quietly make things better without waiting for credit. You don’t need permission to lead, and this moment is your reminder to stop waiting.
Independent retail needs builders. People who care enough to fix what’s broken, challenge what’s stale and create what doesn’t yet exist. So use this recognition as momentum, not validation. Be curious. Be brave. Be useful.
And don’t let this moment be the peak of your story. Let it be the moment people look back on and say, “That’s when it really started.”
From one Young Retailer of the Year honoree to another—congratulations. And if I can ever help, just say the word. There’s a bench full of folks who believe in this industry and believe in you, and we’ve saved you a seat.
Jared Brown Director | The Aubuchon Co.
Read the cover story on Page 18 to learn more about how retailers are developing effective return policies.
Dan Kurash is a store manager for JC Licht, the Midwest’s largest retailer of Benjamin Moore paint and a leader in high-quality wallpaper and window treatments. He has a degree in print journalism from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and has worked in the newspaper and public relations industries. He lives in Illinois with his wife and children.
When it comes to a contractor and DIY-centered home improvement location, it can be important to keep in mind this word regarding counter sales: reciprocation. Reciprocation within any interaction lends itself to both parties giving and taking. Sometimes, one side gets more and sometimes they get less.
It is reasonable to suggest the relationship is ongoing within the parameters of sales transactions for this space, especially among long-time loyal customers. Depending on what rules a particular business has in place for returns and other sales transactions, the benefit of being partners often pays off with solid ROI.
For example, if the policy is a 60-day return period, and the long-time customer is back in 61 days needing to return a small stack of treated lumber and deck screws that were leftover from the deck job, is denying that return one day late worth an interaction that can possibly tarnish a relationship? It’s hard to say; it’s a decision that each business should make according to their rules. Will accepting the return yield more long-term sales? Likely, but you never know.
According to a recent Forbes article, reciprocity is strongly rooted in human nature. It provides a sense of base and ability to interact well with others. The article points out how reciprocation is crucial because it increases trust, fosters a sense of collaboration and drives engagement among those involved with the transaction or business at-hand. In a sense, it empowers others to take ownership and also be a part of the sales mix.
This does not provide an invitation to get taken advantage of at the sales counter, so it is important to pay attention and notice trends relating to purchase history. If that particular customer is now returning items regularly, something may have changed. Perhaps the scope of their work shifted, or they are trying a different product. Either way, it does provide you with the opportunity to become a stronger partner with their business by being firm with returns but also understanding.
As a Business.com article points out, repeat customers ultimately spend more. This paves the way for long-term stability and takes the pressure off the constant need to find new customers—not that doing so is bad in any way—while also becoming natural advocates for your location and brand overall. At the end of the day, the harmony within a reciprocal business relationship can really pay off financially and professionally.
Dan Kurash Store Manager | JC
Licht
With perfection and customer satisfaction the goals of every pro paint project, your customers know that careful prep is the most important step in the process. That means high-strength spackle that doesn’t crack or shrink, abrasives in a range of grits for the finest finish and painter’s tapes that create the sharpest lines, every time.
And as they work, you also want to provide them with respirators that not only help keep them safe, but are
designed with their comfort in mind.
So how do you know you are stocking your shelves with the right tools your customers need to achieve expected results and help protect their most valuable resources: time, money, and people?
Look no further than 3M. Behind our trusted name is more than a century of experience, research, and results in helping pros—whether veterans or novices—get the job right, the first time. And we never stop innovating to make the job easier.
The perfect paint project starts with a smooth surface. 3M™ High Strength Color Changing Wall Repair is a lightweight primer-enhanced spackling compound that makes repairs three times faster than traditional spackling compound, with no shrinking or cracking. Even better, it changes from blue to white as it dries, taking the guesswork out of knowing when it’s ready to sand. Visit 3M.com/wallrepair to learn more.
To finish the repair, 3M™ Pro Grade PrecisionTM Sanding Sheets can be used wet or dry, and are engineered with precision shaped grains, in a variety of grits, that endure from project to project. Visit 3M.com/sanding to learn more.
But even the most careful prep can’t survive painter’s tapes that bleed or feather when removed. ScotchBlueTM PROSharpTM Painter’s Tape provides our sharpest paint lines yet* with new Edge-Lock™+ technology. Designed to handle both indoor and outdoor projects, it provides 2X better hold than our original Edge-Lock™ technology, sealing out paint to leave consistently sharp lines across multiple paint types and finishes. Visit www.scotchblue.com to learn more.
*Our sharpest lines yet, compared to other tapes in the ScotchBlue(TM) Painter’s Tape portfolio
The NIOSH-approved N95 3MTM Cool FlowTM Valve Particulate Respirator 8511 helps you work safely and comfortably. The Cool Flow Valve helps release warm, exhaled breath from inside the respirator, helping to enhance your comfort during longer jobs, while an adjustable M-noseclip and stretchable headbands help provide a custom, secure seal. This respirator also features 3M™ Advanced Electrostatic Media that enhances the capture of airborne particles and is designed for easy breathing. Visit 3M.com/8511 to learn more.
Get a detailed look at renters’ behaviors, motivations and future intentions for DIY projects at PDRmag.com/DIY-channels
INSTITUTE released its Quarterly Homeowner Project Activity Tracker Q1 2025, sharing the attitudes and motivations that drive home improvement initiatives. The first quarter saw a continued slowdown in home project activity, marking three quarters of straight declines, but the types of projects tackled held steady.
The report also looked at the types of information DIY customers are searching for before starting a project. To attract homeowners performing home improvement projects, consider tailoring your marketing messages to address those questions. For example, 30% of customers researched pricing information, so transparency is key to assuaging customer concerns.
Retailer Recommendations
Send an email to editorial@YourNHPA.org telling us about the products your customers love and why they are a hit in your business.
MONKEY RUNG PRODUCTS monkeyrung.com
The Monkey Rung Paintbrush Clip 5-pack includes silicone clips that attach directly to any brand of paintbrush handle, eliminating the need for magnets or special buckets. The flexible band fits various handle sizes and allows the brush to rest securely on the edge of most cans or buckets, reducing the risk of it falling. The slim design stays out of the way during use and also works with many putty knives and multitools.
FESTOOL
festoolusa.com
The PLANEX LHS-E 225 EQ from Festool is a lightweight, long-reach drywall sander with a brushless motor, direct drive and flexible head. It features integrated dust extraction, variable speed control and an 8.5-inch sanding pad.
The Liquid Flame Guard from Walla Walla Environmental is a fire-retardant wood treatment that helps reduce flame when spread on bare wood surfaces. It can be applied with a brush, roller or sprayer and is designed for both indoor and outdoor use.
BRASS KNUCKLE SAFETY PRODUCTS brassknuckleprotection.com
Brass Knuckle Dawn BKFIX-3080 is protective eyewear designed for women. Each pair features an 8-base curve polycarbonate lens available in clear or smoke, a frosty-clear frame with pink accents and flexible thermoplastic rubber temple tips for comfort. The lenses offer standard antifog protection, resist abrasion, chemicals and UV rays and block 99.9% of ultraviolet light.
DOOR HANDLE
KWIKSET kwikset.com
The Kwikset Casey Push Button Lever features a square rose and is designed for light commercial or residential use. It includes a push-button locking mechanism for privacy applications such as bedrooms and bathrooms. The lever is reversible for left- or right-handed doors and is compatible with standard door preparations. It is available in multiple finishes.
ACRYLIC PRIMER EZ ON COAT ezoncoat.com
EZ-on Coat is a water-based, single-component elastomeric coating designed for application on concrete, masonry and metal surfaces. It provides a flexible, breathable membrane that resists cracking and peeling. The coating is UV-resistant, low in volatile organic compounds and is suitable for both interior and exterior use.
ELECTRIC PAINT ROLLER
WAGNER SPRAYTECH
wagnerspraytech.com
The PowerFlow EZ Roller from Wagner is an electric paint roller designed for large or multiroom projects. It pulls paint directly from 1- or 5-gallon containers, eliminating the need for a tray. The 16-foot hose provides extended reach and the auto-feed control allows for continuous paint flow. The roller is compatible with oil- and latex-based coatings and can be cleaned in around 10 minutes.
PAINTING RACK
PAINTLINE
paintline.com
The Pro Face Frame & Door Mover from PaintLine is a mobile rack system designed to protect cabinet doors, panels and face frames during transport. Its slotted trays and fiberglass rods prevent contact between items, reducing damage. The system is configurable to accommodate various workflows and is constructed from non-marring, easy-to-clean materials.
BY LINDSEY THOMPSON
According to the National Retail Federation (NRF) and Happy Returns 2024 Customer Returns in the Retail Industry Report, retailers estimated that 16.9% of their annual sales in 2024 were returned, making customer returns a headache for many retailers, regardless of their size. And customers are not making it any easier on retailers; the NRF report found that 67% of consumers said a negative returns experience would discourage them from shopping with a retailer again and 84% of consumers report being more likely to shop with a retailer that offers no box/no label returns and immediate refunds.
In its 2024 How Important Are Returns to Customers report, Appriss Retail, a software company specializing in omnichannel retail fraud and abuse protection, uncovered similar sentiments from customers. The report found 55% of consumers have decided not to buy from retailers due to restrictive returns policies, 31% stopped shopping at certain retailers due to negative returns experiences and 70% of consumers made additional purchases due to positive returns interactions.
These numbers don’t only apply to larger businesses; customers of small and medium-size businesses also have the same high standards when it comes to returns.
Pedro Ramos, Appriss Retail chief revenue officer, says independent retailers who don’t take a proactive approach to creating effective returns policies that fight fraud and satisfy customers expectations are just as vulnerable as larger, big-box retailers or department stores.
“Shoppers have become familiar with open and flexible returns policies ever since the e-commerce boom and expect an efficient, frictionless returns process both online and in-store,” Ramos says. “When that doesn’t happen, the shopper’s loyalty to the retailer is negatively impacted.”
Being able to offer a seamless returns policy while still keeping down costs and avoiding fraud can be a challenging balancing act for retailers. To guide retailers as they develop their policies, several retailers share their returns policies and the ways they have found to mitigate fraud and keep customers satisfied.
Keep It Simple
AAA Paint & Supply owners Andy and Jessica Blatnick have instituted a simple but clear returns policy.
Technology can be an effective tool to streamline the returns process. Learn more at PDRmag.com/returns-technology
Keys to an Effective Returns Policy
When developing returns policies, many retailers are turning to blanket policies and restrictions or specific rules engines that apply to everyone across the board, Ramos says.
“An effective return policy is not one-size-fits-all, it is one that considers a customer’s entire shopping history and behavior with the retailer,” Ramos says. “A blanket policy only harms customer loyalty in the long run as honest customers are treated the same as fraudsters.”
Ramos says the future of returns lies in utilizing technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to consider a customer’s total value to the retailer and create individualized decisions that stop fraudsters while maintaining seamless returns for honest shoppers.
“Retailers can now leverage technologies that organize their data effectively. By unifying transaction data, shopper information and inventory management
across all channels, AI-driven returns authorization technology can accurately identify fraudsters and introduce friction into fraudulent transactions, all while safeguarding honest customers,” Ramos says. “With fraudulent returns and claims on the rise, retailers must harness their customer data to minimize these losses effectively.”
AAA Paint & Supply in Tempe, Arizona, is a small store with a small number of returns, but owners Andy and Jessica Blatnick know a clear returns policy is important no matter the size of your operation.
“Every store needs a returns policy,” Andy says. “We had a customer when we first opened who returned tinted paint because we did not have on the receipt that tinted materials are non-refundable. It’s important to be clear even when you don’t think you need to be.”
The main part of the store’s returns policy is printed on the bottom of the receipts: A receipt is needed for
Find It Here
for customers.
refund or exchange, there are restocking charges on custom orders and tinted materials are non-refundable. Returns should be made within 30 days of purchase and the restocking charge is a minimum of 20%.
“As long as the product is in good resalable condition and has not been discontinued or something along those lines, we are usually accommodating for returns beyond that point,” Andy says. “We try to look at each individual circumstance.”
The store’s returns policy is simple with a foundation in customer service. Blatnick says that they work closely with each customer to be sure they are getting the right product for the project they are working on.
The store uses online training from the North American Hardware and Paint Association (NHPA) and Benjamin Moore to keep employees up to date and knowledgeable to ask the right questions in guiding customers in their project from start to finish to hopefully avoid the customer needing to return a product.
“We work with paint all the time, so tell customers up front that once they choose the color, the paint is theirs,” Andy says. “We have a relationship with nearly every customer who comes in, which allows us to qualify most purchases before they become returns. We also track just about every customer by their phone number, so we have a good record of what was purchased and by whom, which cuts down on fraudulent returns.”
If the product is defective, Blatnick says they take care of the return within 30 days or get the manufacturer involved if needed. Overall, customers are understanding of the store’s returns policy.
“Every so often we get someone wanting to return the paint for one reason or another,” Blatnick says. “We inform them that we can adjust the color some, but we cannot return the paint. A little customer service goes a long way.”
At Norberg Paints, with two locations in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the customer returns policy is simple and logical, says director Nick Hauert. Unopened and untinted paint products in good condition can be returned within 60 days of purchase and supplies, sundries and items without a shelf life can be returned for a full refund at any time with a receipt.
“We have always tried to keep the returns policy very straightforward and logical,” Hauert says. “Because of our straightforward policy, we have not really had any problems with customers on returns. Once things are explained, people generally understand policies as long as they make sense.”
In the rare cases where a customer tries to return a product purchased from a competitor or a product that is not in new condition, Hauert says the store will not take the product back but will offer the customer the store’s preferred customer discount on future purchases.
“Hopefully this gesture will satisfy them at the time and bring them back to the store in the future,” Hauert says.
For Amy Earls, vice president of Page Hardware & Appliance Co. in Guilford, Connecticut, developing a customer returns policy for the operation was necessary to set customer expectations, protect the business and help employees understand what answers to give to customers. As they were developing the customer returns policy, Earls says they read through the returns policies for other area businesses and competitors.
“We want to remain competitive in the convenience factor that returns can offer,” Earls says. “We did our best to write a policy that is fair and protects our company, but is also a policy that our employees feel comfortable enforcing.”
Components Page Hardware’s returns policy include:
• Any returns made within 60 days of date of purchase with original receipt are eligible for a full refund
• Returns without a receipt receive store credit in the amount of the item’s lowest sale price
• Refunds for purchases made with a credit card or debit card will only be credited to the card used to make the purchase, unless approved by a manager
• Items returned must be in new, unused condition, including all original packaging, manuals and accessories
• Cashiers may request a customer’s full name, address and phone number on all returns
“We have a relationship with nearly every customer who comes in, which allows us to qualify most purchases before they become returns.”
—Andy Blatnick, AAA Paint & Supply
NHPA conducted a survey of retailers, asking them to share details on their operation’s returns policies. Learn more at PDRMag.com/returns-survey
Once a policy is in place, retailers should continually evaluate its effectiveness. Hauert says that the stores have had to be more strict on requiring receipts or documentation for returns to avoid refunding more than the original purchase price.
“We do not want to give a full-price refund on a product that was purchased at a discount or give a refund on a product that had a recent price increase at the new, higher price,” Hauert says.
To stay competitive and serve customers with the highest level of service, Page’s returns policy has evolved many times over the years, Earls says.
“I was recently going through some old files and came across merchandise returns slips that we used to use in the 1980s,” Earls says. “The cashier had to fill out customer information, product details, how the refund was made and get a customer signature.”
Today, the returns process is easier and automated. The store utilizes Epicor’s Returns Validation, so employees processing returns only need to ask for a phone number to find the customer’s purchase information. After Epicor
introduced the ability to return money directly to a gift card, the store set a time frame for returning to the original tender, which is currently 60 days.
“We used to collect returns in a box and the manager reviewed them at the end of the day, prior to putting the product back on the shelf,” Earls says. “Problems were rarely discovered and the process created issues because the inventory was not on the shelf, so we no longer require manager review.”
Another major evolution was the move to process all returns at one desk. Earls says they remodeled the store in 2012, adding a service desk near the key machine, and began processing all returns at that desk. Previously, returns were processed at all cash registers. Having one desk to process returns eliminated having customers who were making purchases waiting in line behind unhappy customers looking to return defective products. Returns often take longer than sales, so the move sped up the point-of-sale process.
“Limiting returns to the service desk also reduces the number of employees who need to be trained on the return process, which in turn reduces processing errors and inconsistent messaging to customers about what is allowed,” Earls says.
Appriss Retail’s 2024 Consumer Returns in the Retail Industry report also took a closer look at the impact of returns fraud. In 2024, total returns for the retail industry reached $685 billion and the total returns rate as a percentage of sales for 2024 was 13.21%. Of those returns, 15.14% were fraudulent, totaling $103 billion.
Fortunately for Earls, overall customers are pleased with the store’s returns policies and the store has experienced minimal returns fraud. She says customers are often surprised they can make returns beyond 30 days, and the people who are unhappy about the policy are usually ones who are trying to return a product that they bought a year ago or from another store, or they are trying to pass off a used product as new or a working product as defective. When it comes to fraud, there are a couple of customers who the employees know to watch out for and the service desk employees and managers know when to be firm and refuse a return.
“For the most part, we make the returns process easy and quick, to be convenient,” Earls says. “Customers appreciate this, and since they don’t need to be sneaky to get credit, it encourages honesty.”
In order to guard against returns fraud in your operation, you need to be knowledgeable on the types of fraud customers could use against your business.
1 Wardrobing
Buying an item, using it for a time and then returning it for a full refund.
2 Price Switching
Putting a lower-priced sticker on a higher-priced item before purchasing and then returning for a refund at the actual higher price.
Return Stolen Merchandise
3
Attempting to return an item that has been stolen from the store by using a forged receipt or claiming the item was a gift.
Counterfeit Returns
4
5
Replacing genuine products with counterfeit or fake items to receive a full refund.
Empty Box Returns
Returning an empty box or replacing the original item with a worthless substitute, such as a brick or other filler, to manipulate the process.
Gift Card Fraud
6
7
Stealing physical cards, buying gift cards with stolen credit cards or using bots to hack digital balances.
Excessive Bracketing
Purchasing multiple variations of a product with the intent to return most or all of them.
Source: 8 Types of Return Fraud & Abuse Every Retailer Should Know, Appriss Retail
BY LINDSEY THOMPSON
No other event brings the independent home improvement channel together like the Independent Home Improvement Conference (IHI Conference), which will take place July 30-31. Attendees will include retailers from every wholesaler umbrella, vendors and service providers and industry experts and players who will take part in educational sessions, engage in networking events and enjoy the sun and fun of the JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes.
With a focus on leadership, innovation and operational excellence, the IHI Conference provides an unmatched experience in a family-friendly, world-class setting, giving attendees the tools and inspiration they need to grow and succeed in today’s competitive retail landscape.
There’s still time to register! Visit to learn more and claim your spot at this year’s must-attend industry event.
9:00 AM 1:00 PM Partner Pavilion Open 7:30 AM 3:00 PM Registration Open
9:00 AM 10:00 AM Continental Breakfast 9:00 AM 9:45 AM
Sponsored Breakout Session
Presented by Deluxe
10:00 AM 10:45 AM
Breakout Sessions
EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT
Rewriting the Rules of Engagement: Gallup Research in Action
EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP
Leading Through Change: How Resilient Leaders Adapt, Inspire and Win in Uncertain Times
MARKETING, MERCHANDISING & ADVERTISING
Maximizing the Sales Potential of Every Square Foot
RETAIL OPS & TECH
The Future Is Now: How Independent Retailers Are Innovating to Win
HACKATHON
The Price Perception Hackathon: Changing Minds Without Changing Margins
Sponsored Breakout Sessions
Presented by Pennsylvania Lumbermens Mutual Insurance Company and Rundoo
11:00 AM 11:45 AM
Breakout Sessions
EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT
From Boomers to Zoomers: Creating a Customer Experience for Every Generation
EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP
Beyond Your 4 Walls: Expanding B2B Sales Strategies for Long-Term Success
MARKETING, MERCHANDISING & ADVERTISING
Driving Traffic Through Store Events and Local Influencers
RETAIL OPS & TECH
Mastering Margin Master: Smarter Pricing, Stronger Profits
HACKATHON
The Niche Market Hackathon: Turning Gaps Into Growth
Sponsored Breakout Sessions
Presented by GenetiQ and National Cooperative Bank
11:30 AM
1:15 PM
STATE OF THE INDUSTRY ADDRESS
1:45 PM Elevating the Edge of Independent Retail
Backed by data, informed by real-world insight and grounded in NHPA’s industry research, this session will help you understand where the market stands—and how you can position your operation for growth in the year ahead. From shifting consumer behavior to inventory trends, labor dynamics to competitive positioning, this is the pulse check every independent leader needs.
Presented by Dan Tratensek, NHPA
1:45 PM
PANEL DISCUSSION
2:30 PM Top Guns Live: Leadership Lessons From the Industry’s Boldest Leaders
Hear how these award-winning retailers are tackling labor challenges, navigating growth, embracing technology and staying laser-focused on their communities and customers. From strategic risks to lessons learned, this is your opportunity to learn from the best of the best—live and unfiltered.
2:30 PM
3:15 PM Macro-Economic Factors Impacting Home Improvement Behaviors
Gain an up-to-date view of the broader economic environment and how trends are translating into shifting project priorities, demand cycles and purchasing decisions. Whether you’re a retailer, wholesaler, manufacturer or service provider, this session will help you better anticipate market movement—and plan your strategies accordingly.
Presented by Dave King, Home Improvement Research Institute
6:00 PM
INDUSTRY AWARDS
8:00 PM All-Industry Awards Gala
Young Retailer of the Year and Beacon Awards
This event will feature the prestigious NHPA Young Retailer of the Year Awards and the Beacon Awards, celebrating excellence in the industry. Enjoy a night filled with networking, fun and inspiring moments as we hear from the honorees. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with industry leaders and celebrate outstanding achievements.
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
Beacon Award Sponsors: Do it Best, True Value, Orgill, Fluidmaster, Ettore, Epicor, WD-40, Hardware Connection
Young Retailer of the Year Sponsors: NHPA, American Hardware & Lumber Insurance, ECI, Midwest Fastener, Wooster Brush Company
8:00 PM
10:00 PM The Independents Celebration
Connect and celebrate with retailers and channel partners at this special event open to all attendees! The evening will include activities, food buffets, drinks and fun.
9:00 AM 1:00 PM Partner Pavilion Open 7:30 AM 3:00 PM Registration Open
9:00 AM 10:00 AM Continental Breakfast
9:00 AM 9:45 AM Sponsored Breakout Sessions
Presented by Live Oak Bank and Onebeat
10:00 AM 10:45 AM Breakout Sessions
EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT
Rewriting the Rules of Engagement: Gallup Research in Action
EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP
Leading Through Change: How Resilient Leaders Adapt, Inspire and Win in Uncertain Times
MARKETING, MERCHANDISING & ADVERTISING
Maximizing the Sales Potential of Every Square Foot
RETAIL OPS & TECH
The Future Is Now: How Independent Retailers Are Innovating to Win
HACKATHON
The Price Perception Hackathon: Changing Minds Without Changing Margins
Sponsored Breakout Sessions
ECI and Watcher Total Protection
11:00 AM 11:45 AM Breakout Sessions
EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT
From Boomers to Zoomers: Creating a Customer Experience for Every Generation
EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP
THUR 7/31 3:00 PM 4:00 PM Top Guns Award Reception Sponsored by the National Hardware Show
Beyond Your 4 Walls: Expanding B2B Sales Strategies for Long-Term Success
MARKETING, MERCHANDISING & ADVERTISING Driving Traffic Through Store Events and Local Influencers
RETAIL OPS & TECH
Planning for Profit: Advanced Strategies With Epicor’s Pricing Planner
PANEL DISCUSSION 2:00 PM 2:45 PM Customer Experience Meets Creativity
KEYNOTE PRESENTATION
HACKATHON The Niche Market Hackathon: Turning Gaps Into Growth 11:30 AM 1:00 PM Lunch Provided 1:00 PM 1:15 PM General Session Welcome 1:15 PM 1:45 PM Voices of Impact: A Conversation With Young Retailer of the Year and Beacon Award Honorees
In this energizing panel, exceptional retailers will share their stories, strategies and lessons learned from building strong teams, embracing innovation and driving meaningful change in their communities and businesses. Whether you’re an emerging leader or an industry veteran, this session offers inspiration and practical insights straight from those who are shaping the future of the channel—one bold move at a time.
Duncan Wardle, Former Head of Innovation & Creativity at Disney
In this keynote by globally acclaimed speaker Duncan Wardle, you’ll learn how to harness creativity to turn a product-centric culture into a consumer-centric one. Attendees will learn how to create a sustainable culture of innovation and creativity throughout their organization and lead every employee to think creatively. Discover how to leverage high-tech to enable high-touch, deliver record guest satisfaction and address the biggest consumer pain points.
INDUSTRY AWARDS
Recognizing the best of the best in the independent home improvement industry, three awards ceremonies will take place during the IHI Conference: The Beacon Awards, the Young Retailer of the Year Awards and the Top Guns Awards. Scan the QR code to meet this year’s honorees for the Young Retailer of the Year and Top Guns Awards and learn more about the Beacon Awards and the awards galas that will recognize all the honorees.
Interact with leading industry vendors and service providers in a casual setting. These high-caliber companies will be sharing their products and services as part of a robust Partner Pavilion and networking events. Scan the QR code to see what vendors and service providers will be a part of the 2025 IHI Conference and tips for getting the most out of your time with each during the event.
In addition to the IHI Conference schedule of events, partner events hosted by Do it Best, Orgill and Epicor will take place on July 29 and 30. All IHI Conference attendees are free to attend these educational sessions and exclusive seminars. Scan the QR code to see why you should participate in these events and activities for a week of independent home improvement channel camaraderie and idea sharing.
Welcome to the ideal Orlando resort! Come and unwind in the stylish modern comforts of the JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes, set amid 500 acres of tropical gardens, lakes and undulating fairways. Scan the QR code for more information on the resort’s features, nearby activities and discounts to area attractions and parks.
THANK YOU TO OUR CONFERENCE SPONSORS
BY LINDSEY THOMPSON
Growing up watching family members serving in the U.S. Army and the U.S. Air Force, Chris McDaniel developed a desire to contribute in the same way and joined the U.S. Air Force in May 2002.
“When I was younger, I was able to see firsthand some of the aircraft that my family
worked on and kept in the air,” Chris says. “I always had planned to join the military right after high school, and then 9/11 happened. I immediately wanted to be a part of something bigger than myself and serve my country. Even back then, I knew the military was something I would retire from.”
An Honor to Serve
NHPA is sharing the stories of these hometown heroes in all of its media brands. Visit YourNHPA.org/veterans to learn more about these heroes.
While there is no way to repay the sacrifices made by veterans of the armed forces, the North American Hardware and Paint Association (NHPA) recognizes that not only have these individuals made a lasting impact on their country, but they are also a prominent and positive influence within the home improvement industry.
To honor the ongoing impact military veterans make throughout the home improvement industry, NHPA launched the Helmets to Home Improvement recognition program, with the National Hardware Show (NHS) as the program’s official founding sponsor and venue partner.
We need your help honoring these amazing men and women. Please visit YourNHPA.org/veterans to nominate a Helmets to Home Improvement honoree.
Nominate a Veteran
Help us honor those who have served our country and our channel. Visit YourNHPA.org/veterans to nominate a veteran from your business to be recognized.
Chris worked in ground transportation and his role offered major support to military action in the Middle East right after 9/11. He was deployed five times to Afghanistan, Iraq and Qatar, and he amassed more than 150,000 miles, traveling across some of the most dangerous roads in Iraq and Afghanistan.
“Once I started doing convoys, it really let me see the bigger picture, where vehicle operators fit into the bigger mission,” Chris says. “At home station, you’re driving bus routes or something like that, and you don’t really see how you fit into the overall mission. Deployed, you’re moving stuff that is integral to someone, somewhere. You are taking vital supplies and cargo to other bases that need it.”
His favorite part about serving was being a member of an amazing team, including serving along with Senior Airman Ashton Goodman, who was killed when a roadside improvised explosive device detonated underneath the humvee she was driving while deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2009. During his Afghanistan deployment, Chris served as morale and welfare coordinator, hosting Texas Hold’em tournaments, Spades tournaments and other events for the forward operating base.
“Our efforts put us in dangerous areas, and we had to take care of each other in the heat of the battle,” Chris says. “That teamwork and trust of your fellow Airmen is something I’ll never forget.”
“Our efforts put us in dangerous areas, and we had to take care of each other in the heat of the battle. That teamwork and trust of your fellow Airmen is something I’ll never forget.”
—Chris McDaniel, MANS Lumber
In July 2023, after over two decades serving the country, Chris retired from the Air Force and started the search for a job and a company that would benefit from his experience and allow him to continue serving others.
With his background in logistics and transportation, a job opening as a shipping liaison with a lumber company caught his eye. He applied with MANS Lumber, which has six locations in Michigan, and has been serving as the company’s dispatch and shipping liaison since.
“I appreciate and enjoy that my job also has a focus on customer service, so I can find that fulfillment in helping others,” Chris says.
Along with getting to serve others, Chris says his other favorite part about working in the independent channel is being viewed as a person rather than a number.
“MANS Lumber is an excellent place to work that has a long legacy of putting people first,” Chris says. “We are celebrating our 125th year in business in 2025.”
While his role at MANS Lumber aligns with his operational background from his time as a leader in the military, Chris also took away customer service skills from the Air Force that apply.
“I am able to understand customer service situations and help where I can,” Chris says. “I am able to help the team where needed and be flexible when it comes to jobs changing on the fly.”
Chris says that military veterans are well-suited for the independent home improvement channel.
“Military veterans are resilient and hard workers and will do what it takes to get the job done,” Chris says. “Veterans have high standards and want to do the best they can everyday.”
4 Ways Merchandising Drives Sales
See how other retailers make the most of their impulse category at PDRmag.com/merchandising-drives
BY JACOB MUSSELMAN
Around 89% of shoppers have made an impulse purchase at some point, according to Capital One Shopping Research.
At Norberg Paints in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, grabbing a piece of that impulse category hinges on simple strategies executed consistently.
From offering low-cost add-ons to maintaining eye-catching displays in both Norberg Paints stores, director Nick Hauert shares how he has curated a successful impulse category to encourage last-minute purchases that add up over time.
At both of Norberg Paints’ locations, impulse products are placed in multiple spots around the stores, but most importantly, on the checkout counter.
Hauert merchandises boxes of inexpensive brushes, snap-off knives and rolls of painter’s tape on the counter to grab customers’ attention as they check out.
“We keep a low- to mid-level paintbrush that is more retail-oriented sitting on the counter at a discounted price,” he says. “Customers frequently purchase these items.”
Since Hauert started at Norberg Paints, he’s made an effort to have more impulse product options at his sales counter.
“In the past, we didn’t emphasize impulse products at our sales counter,” he says. “But in the last few years, we’ve made the effort to merchandise products where customers checkout, and it’s paid off.”
By placing low-cost accessories where conversations happen, employees can suggest products to customers who may not have considered what else they need for their projects. When employees see a customer buying paint or rollers, they’re trained to suggest a related item displayed on the counter.
“We train all our employees to mention the discounted price,” Hauert says. “It’s an easy add-on that customers weren’t planning to get, but decided to grab because it’s right there.”
Part of Hauert’s impulse sales training also includes finding the full scope of the customers’ project.
“If we know what they’re doing, then we’re able to add on relevant product suggestions and grab those extra sales,” he says.
of consumers shop impulsively in brick-and-mortar stores. 80% of Americans say the majority of their purchases are unplanned.
SALE of consumers have impulsively bought an item because it was on sale. 70%
35%
36% of consumers say impulse purchases are driven by popular trends.
An eye-catching sign can make the difference between a product that gets ignored and one that flies off the shelf.
Hauert says a clean, brightly-colored sign with a large price tag and clear branding is essential.
“We have 40 brushes on our wall; it’s easy to overlook a box of brushes, but a bright sign with a clear price grabs their attention,” Hauert says.
Whether it’s an overstocked item or a special deal from a buying market, putting a product in the right location with strong visual clues helps the customer feel like they’re getting a deal, even if the markdown isn’t massive.
“For the impulse category, the actual price matters less than the perceived value of what they’re buying,” he says. “I’ve found that customers care more about the value they believe they’re getting than how much I’ve marked it down by. I always focus on the impression of the deal they’re getting.”
“I’ve found that customers care more about the value they believe they’re getting than how much I’ve marked it down by. I always focus on the impression of the deal they’re getting. ”
—Nick Hauert, Norberg Paints
Hauert says he regularly rotates new products, often based on the amount they have in stock, deals he finds through his buying group and conversations with other retailers.
“If I’m ordering something from my buying group and I see a product that looks like a good deal, or it’s a show special, I’ll order a box and test it out as an impulse buy,” he says. “The deals I get from buying at shows make it easy to put them in my store as an impulse buy because I’m already getting it at a discount, so it’s easier to mark down.”
At markets, Hauert uses networking time to connect with other retailers and learn about their businesses, and he uses those relationships to improve his impulse category.
“I talk with several other owners regularly, and we let each other know about good deals coming up and how other products performed in their stores,” he says. “It’s great to have those relationships because it helps everybody.”
Hauert also utilizes dump bins and mini displays in other sections of his store to create more opportunities for impulse shopping. Products like sanding sponges, sprayer tips and tape often get featured in rotating displays near related products.
“A high percentage of retail customers who get paint from us buy something from one of our impulse displays,” Hauert says. “If you can add $5, $10 or $15 to a transaction, that’s a win.”
Subscribe to our weekly newsletters at PDRmag.com/subscribe to get the latest news and trends.
Coverings 2025 Successfully Concludes in Orlando Coverings 2025 marked its 35th gathering with 1,000 exhibitors from 40 countries and over 26,000 attendees. The event showcased global tile and stone trends, hands-on demos and expanded programming, including Spanish-language sessions and interactive lounges. Attendees explored innovations aligned with themes like sustainability and wellness, while networking and sourcing new products across a nine-mile show floor.
Sherwin-Williams secured top rankings in the J.D. Power 2025 U.S. Paint Satisfaction Study, leading both interior and exterior paint categories. This marks the company’s third consecutive win for interior paints. Customers praised Sherwin-Williams for ease of application, durability, value and trust. The study, based on responses from over 7,000 customers, evaluated factors like coverage, application and overall satisfaction.
Purdy is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2025, recognizing a century of making professional painting tools since its founding in Portland, Oregon. To mark the milestone, the company is highlighting its history, sharing stories from users across generations and introducing new innovations. Purdy remains focused on supporting painting professionals with tools designed to improve quality and efficiency on the job.
PPG is investing $380 million to construct a 198,000-square-foot aerospace coatings and sealants facility in Shelby, North Carolina. The project, set to begin in October 2025 and completed by mid-2027, aims to meet the growing demand in the aerospace sector. The new facility will create over 110 jobs and enhance PPG’s operational efficiency and customer support in the region.
To read these news stories and other news, visit PDRmag.com/industry-news
RESEARCH INSTITUTE (HIRI) announced findings from its latest U.S. Size of the Home Improvement Products Market report, including a revised downward forecast in 2025 due to sustained macroeconomic challenges.
The home improvement market as a whole reached $574.3 billion last year and is now projected to grow by 3.4% in 2025, a reduction from the 5.0% growth projected in HIRI’s March outlook.
The forecast also revealed a change in anticipated growth rates in the professional and consumer markets. Consumer market sales growth in current dollars is expected to grow by 2.6% in 2025, down from the 4.9% forecast in March. Professional market sales are projected to grow faster at 4.9% in 2025, as expected from the March forecast.
“While our latest forecast reflects some near-term adjustments due to economic headwinds, the long-term picture for the home improvement market remains one of significant opportunity,” says Dave King, executive director of HIRI. “Looking out over the next five years through 2029, we anticipate a net gain in total market spend of roughly $300 billion in additional spend. While this growth is expected to be stronger toward the latter half of the period, it reflects that the underlying appetite and demand for home improvement projects are still robust.”
The report also mentions a 35% probability of a pessimistic scenario, including a two-quarter recession in mid-2025.
The revised outlook is based on a few specific economic factors, including rising costs and tariffs, housing market challenges, slowing consumer spending and income growth and a cooling labor market.
“While our latest forecast reflects some near-term adjustments due to economic headwinds, the long-term picture for the home improvement market remains one of significant opportunity.”
Dave King, Home Improvement Research Institute
One retailer shares his top tips on keeping customers happy with a well-thought out return policy. Learn more at PDRmag.com/strong-return-policy
THIS MONTH’S FEATURE STORY takes a closer look at customer returns policies and ways retailers can improve their own policies to keep customers happy while still protecting their operation’s bottom line. As part of the feature story on Page 18, during Q2 of 2025, the North American Hardware and Paint Association (NHPA) conducted a survey of retailers and their customer return policies to provide a benchmark for your business.
What is your return window? Do
BUSINESS FOR SALE
Northwest Farm & Home Supply Co.
Location: Lemmon, SD
Gross Revenue: $3.21 million
The main building is a total 27,213 sq. ft. of retail and warehouse space on 4 acres. The main bldg. was constructed in 1994 with additions constructed in 2002 and 2004.
Single story with 22’ clear height in 11,459 sq. ft. of lumber warehouse, three grade level doors and two dock height doors.
BUSINESS FOR SALE
Hoosick True Value
Location: Hoosick Falls, NY
Gross Revenue: $1.26 million
Price: $1.875 million
This opportunity offers a turnkey sale of a general hardware business located in northeastern Rensselaer Co., New York. The business serves five towns and southwestern Bennington Co., Vermont, and 25 miles east of Troy, New York.
SEEKING BUSINESSES
The Aubuchon Company
For our next acquisition, we are looking for:
• Single-store and multi-store hardware operations
• Located in northeast and southeast United States
• Store size of 5,000-30,000 ft 2
• At least $3 million in average store sales
SEEKING BUSINESSES
BUSINESS FOR SALE
Home Improvement Supply Store
Location: Missouri
Gross Revenue: $1.04 million
This historic home improvement and hardware store is a staple of its community and operates from its headquarters in the Kansas City Metropolitan Area of Missouri. The Company is a long-standing retailer and installer of consumer and commercial improvement products.
BUSINESS FOR SALE
Albrights Hardware & Garden Center
Location: Allentown, PA
Gross Revenue: $1.9 million
Price: $800,000
Albrights Hardware is an established hardware store with strong neighborhood ties and has been a Lehigh Valley staple for over 50 years. The current owners have owned the store since 1992. Albrights serves its loyal customer base by providing quality products and exceptional customer service.
SEEKING BUSINESSES
Bolster Hardware
We are looking for:
• Geography agnostic
• With or without real estate
• Store revenues of $1.5M+
• We prefer to honor the family name and heritage in the local community by not changing the name
• We prefer to keep all employees as part of the acquisition
JOB LISTING
The Helpful Hardware Company
We are looking for:
• Single-store units in the southeast and multi-store groups with 3+ units nationwide
• Store size of 5,000 ft2-35,000 ft2
• Supplier agnostic
• Store revenue: $1.75M+
BUSINESS FOR SALE
Central Vermont Paint, Flooring and Decorating Business
Location: Vermont
Gross Revenue: $2.82 million
Price: $1.1 million
Full-service decorating store providing flooring, paint, window treatments, kitchen/bathroom remodeling, cabinetry product offerings, design assistance, specialized service, and professional installation.
BUSINESS FOR SALE
Private Business
Location: Alabama
Gross Revenue: $2.21 million
Price: $649,000
BUSINESS FOR SALE
Private Business
Location: Pennsylvania
Gross Revenue: $1.6 million
SEEKING BUSINESSES
Gold Beach Lumber Yard
We are looking for:
• Single-store and multi-store hardware operations
• Located in the Pacific Northwest
• Store size of 5,000 ft2-30,000 ft2
Randall Lumber & Hardware, Inc.
Position: Hardware, Ranch and Feed Department Manager
• Annual Salary: $48,000-$55,000
• Bachelor’s Degree or 5 years of experience in similar role preferred
• Strong leadership skills and creative thinking are a bonus
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