Issuu

Vol. 67 • Issue 3 • September 2025 • PDRmag.com

Published by the North American Hardware and Paint Association

Rising Industry Stars Meet the 2025 Young Retailer of the Year Honorees Driving the Channel Forward Page 14

3 Ways to Freshen Up Your Sponges, Rags and Cleaning Category Page 32

SEPTEMBER ISSUE SPONSOR

Smart Training Smarter Teams RetailWise is NHPA’s new AI-powered micro-training program, built exclusively for independent hardware, paint, and lumber retailers. Designed for today’s fast-paced retail environment, RetailWise delivers 52 professionally scripted, two-minute video lessons that fit seamlessly into your store’s daily rhythm — no long classroom sessions or complicated schedules required.

100% DEVICE ACCESSIBILITY RetailWise can be accessed across multiple platforms including, mobile devices, desktops and in-store screens.

COURSE CATEGORIES: Customer Experience & Sales Techniques

Leadership & People Development

Marketing & Local Promotion

Merchandising & Inventory

Operational Excellence

Retail Tech Simplified

Safety & Risk Management

Store Culture & Team Engagement

Subscribe Today! Scan the QR Code to sign up for RetailWise AI-powered micro-training or visit YourNHPA.org/retailwise.

Have Questions?

Contact Cody Goeppner at cgoeppner@YourNHPA.org.

Vol. 67 • Issue 3 • September 2025 • PDRmag.com

Published by the North American Hardware and Paint Association

Rising Industry Stars Meet the 2025 Young Retailer of the Year Honorees Driving the Channel Forward Page 14

3 Ways to Freshen Up Your Sponges, Rags and Cleaning Category Page 32

THE CLEAR CHOICE FOR WOOD

The Evolution of Water-Based Wood Finishes Old Masters leads in the advancement of water-based technologies and delivers clear finishes for both the professional and do-it-yourselfer that provide excellent clarity, easy application, and superior durability.

Masters Armor® Interior Water-Based Clear Finish

Apex® HPP Interior Water-Based Clear Finish

• Use on floors, cabinets, furniture, or almost any type of woodwork

• Replaces solvent-based lacquers and varnishes

• Applies easily with brush or roll and dries quickly to a smooth finish • Superior durability on floors • Hardener additive provides maximum protection on high traffic surfaces

• Developed for contractors, builders, and wood shops • Excellent chemical and wear resistance • Meets VOC requirements of OTC, OTC II, CARB, and SCAQMD • Fast dry and stacking times with excellent sandability

COME JOIN OUR FAMILY

myoldmasters.com | myoldmasters.com/professional OR CALL: (800) 747-3436 |

U A RT

E RS

COMING IN OCTOBER

1025 E. 54th St. Indianapolis, Indiana 317-275-9400 NHPA@YourNHPA.org YourNHPA.org COMMUNICATIONS Lindsey Thompson lthompson@YourNHPA.org Managing Editor Austin Vance avance@YourNHPA.org Manager of Marketing & Partner Relations Jacob Musselman jmusselman@YourNHPA.org News & Digital Editor Annie Palmer apalmer@YourNHPA.org Content Development Coordinator Autumn Ricketts Lead Graphic Designer Olivia Shroyer Marketing & Design Specialist Samantha Mitchell Production & Design Assistant Cassie Reed Marketing & Digital Content Assistant Freda Creech Sales & Production Assistant

ASSOCIATION PROGRAMS 800-772-4424 | NHPA@YourNHPA.org Cody Goeppner cgoeppner@YourNHPA.org Director of Education & Training Jesse Carleton jcarleton@YourNHPA.org Training Manager & Editor Amy Hayes Operations Coordinator—Advanced Education & Training

SALES Greg Cole 317-775-2206 | gcole@YourNHPA.org National Sales Manager Jordan Rice 217-808-1641 | jrice@YourNHPA.org Regional Sales Director Renee Changnon 217-621-7363 | rchangnon@YourNHPA.org Senior Business Development Representative—West Coast

CIRCULATION, SUBSCRIPTION & LIST RENTAL INQUIRIES

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. NHPA EXECUTIVE STAFF

Boost Revenue With Outside Sales As retailers look for ways to differentiate in a tight market, successful B2B programs can provide a way to expand their reach, deepen customer relationships and unlock new revenue streams without adding square footage. Next month, hear from retailers who have embraced B2B through contractor services, outside sales teams, pro pricing models, operational partnerships and more.

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.

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 Osborne St. N. Winnipeg, MB R3C 1V4

CIRCULATION DIRECTOR Richard Jarrett, 314-432-7511, Fax: 314-432-7665 gcscs8@gmail.com

September 2025 | PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER

N T E N TS

Volume 67 | Issue 3 | September 2025 PaintandDecoratingRetailer

PDRMagazine

DEPARTMENTS Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Industry Viewpoint . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Fresh Coat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 New Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Newsmakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 Finish . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

14 COVER STORY

The Fresh Faces of the Channel

If this year’s class of Young Retailer of the Year honorees is any indication of the future of the home improvement retail industry, the channel is in good hands. Meet the 2025 honorees and their thoughts on leadership, channel opportunities and advice for fellow young retailers.

INDUSTRY EVENTS

PROFILE

Relive the Highlights

Seeing the World in Service

Over three days, retailers, wholesalers, vendors and other industry partners gathered in Orlando for education, networking and fun at the 2025 Independent Home Improvement Conference.

During his time in the U.S. Navy, John Azaltovic was able to see the world while serving his country. Learn more how he brought that passion for new experiences into the independent channel.

RESEARCH

CATEGORY FOCUS

Performance Update

Squeaky Clean Sales

Get a pulse on the latest industry data with the Independent Retail Index, which presents data from the second quarter of 2025.

Discover one retailer’s expert merchandising strategies in their cleanup tools category and learn tips on how to keep product selection fresh.

PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER | September 2025

S P O N S O R E D

C O N T E N T

3M: A Century of Science Behind Pro Success

ith 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.

PERFORMANCE FOR THE WHOLE PROJECT 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.

*Our sharpest lines yet, compared to other tapes in the ScotchBlue(TM) Painter’s Tape portfolio

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. 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.

September July 2025 | PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER

13 3

WP OI N T

CONNECTIONS

How to Reach Dan dant@YourNHPA.org

Dan Tratensek

F R O M T H E A S S O C I AT I O N

Invigorating Innovation

“Being innovative simply means finding new solutions to solve problems and applying those solutions in a meaningful way.”

A F E W W E E K S A G O , during the 2025 Independent Home Improvement Conference (IHI Conference) in Orlando, a gentleman by the name of Duncan Wardle was among the keynote speakers. Like most folks who are on the speaking circuit, Mr. Wardle’s resume included a long list of accomplishments, but the one title that caught my eye as we were vetting speakers for the event was the time Duncan had spent with the small, Florida-based entertainment company, Disney. Most recently, Mr. Wardle served as Disney’s vice president of innovation and creativity. If there is any company that is known for being innovative and creative, it’s hard to pick one that stands out more than Disney. At the IHI Conference, he delivered an interactive presentation that inspired the audience to harness some of that Disney innovation in their own businesses. Without going into the specific lessons Duncan shared with the crowd, I want to address the concept of innovation itself. Innovation is a word kicked around a lot these days, particularly when we are talking about companies that tend to stand out from the crowd. So, how can we all make innovation an important part of our own businesses? The first step is to spend some time thinking about how your business can be more innovative. To do this, however, you need to have a good understanding of what it means to be innovative. Being innovative simply means finding new solutions to solve problems and applying those solutions in a meaningful way. To start, identify what problems you or your customers face. Then brainstorm all the possibilities you can to address those problems. You can’t solve every problem, so you will have to break them down and rank them into easily digestible bites. Then, take a deeper dive into the problems and the possible solutions you and your business could provide. Unfortunately, so many of us roll from year to year and simply fail to address problems and “solution generation” as part of our planning culture. As an exercise in innovation, I’d challenge each of you to make this part of your planning and budgeting process for 2026. Identify three problems in your business and then brainstorm a series of innovative solutions to those problems. Not only does this help keep non-financial objectives on your planning radar, but it also helps create a culture of innovation within your organization. It’s a small step but it’s better than simply “wishing on a star” that things will work out.

Dan M. Tratensek Chief Operating Officer

PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER | September 2025

I TO R I A L

CONNECTIONS

How to Reach Scott swright@YourNHPA.org

Scott Wright

F R O M T H E PU B L I S H E R

The Best Retail Minds... At Your Service

“This is what sets NHPA apart in our industry—our ability to bring together all members of the independent channel to share successful methods and best practices.”

T H I S P A S T M O N T H has been one of the most exciting times in the 125-year history of the North American Hardware and Paint Association (NHPA). In mid-July we held the first visit of our newly “remodeled” Retail Management Certification Program (RMCP) with 22 students attending from across the country. The following week we successfully staged the second annual Independent Home Improvement Conference in Orlando, where 600-plus channel members assembled to learn about today’s hottest topics and trends. We also launched our new RetailWise industry-focused training library, powered by an exciting new artificial intelligence model that will allow us to easily and affordably disseminate and customize NHPA’s training content. You can read more about this new program on Page 40. These milestones represent a turning point in NHPA’s 125-year history, where traditional methods of how we provide solutions for success are now intertwining with emerging new technology. Most of our in-person meetings and educational programs, like RMCP, adopted a hybrid approach during the pandemic, with a mix of both in-person and virtual components to deliver content in a timelier manner. One example is NHPA’s Retailer Roundtable program, where retailers from different affiliations gather for monthly virtual meetings to discuss current topics, but also attend annual in-person meetings where we can spend more time doing deeper dives into the topics that require additional discussion and analysis. This is what sets NHPA apart in our industry—our ability to bring together all members of the independent channel to share successful methods and best practices. It’s what we do each month in the pages of this publication. An important aspect of NHPA’s role is our ability to connect you to the brightest retail minds who we know and who we trust. Starting next month, we will be launching a new service where we are able to connect you with these trusted retail experts, teachers and advisors, one-on-one, through a new consulting platform that will also have both in-person and virtual components. These experts will each focus on specific retail core competencies. Most of these experts have spent their entire careers working in retail at leading companies that we all know and respect. The solutions they provide are deeply rooted in their experience and extensive track record for innovation and success, with no gimmicks and no bias toward any one entity. We have vetted them and trust they will be able to take your business to new levels of success. We believe this will be a game-changing extension of how we fulfill NHPA’s mission, which is to help hardware stores, home centers, LBM outlets and paint and decorating stores, regardless of affiliation, be better and more profitable retailers. And there’s perhaps no better way to fulfill this than to connect you with the best retail minds who can provide the best solutions for your specific needs. Want to learn more? Give me a call at 317-441-4136 or email me at swright@YourNHPA.org.

Scott Wright Vice President of Content Development and Publisher

September 2025 | PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER

INDU

Y VI E W

RESOURCES

Low-Down on Displays Once your physical location is secured, discover how to effectively merchandise at YourNHPA.org/research/merchandising-for-profit.

Meet Jim Jim Robisch has been working in the home improvement channel for over 40 years. He is retired from The Farnsworth Group, where he was a senior partner and adviser focusing on retail research and consulting. He directed retailer and wholesaler services activities for the firm, including customer intelligence, brand image and positioning, market expansion, customer satisfaction, growth and strategic planning. Jim has worked with more than 1,000 independent retailers and over 50 of the top industry chains and the largest wholesale groups. He has evaluated over 1,000 trading areas and visited over 10,000 stores. In retirement, Jim remains active with consulting work and serving on numerous industry and non-industry advisory boards.

O PE R AT I O N S

Location, Location, Location

ocation, location, location is an indisputable retail axiom. Location influences the performance across multiple fronts of retail management: websites, in-the-store product areas, on-the-shelf locations, in-ad product locations and of course, physical stores’ site locations. Let’s focus on store site locations. Over the years I have visited, assessed and evaluated over 10,000 retail store locations (yes, really!). I have never seen two sites that are exactly the same. I’ve looked at existing sites for expansion. I’ve looked at new sites for brand new stores and for relocation. While no situation is exactly the same, the critical evaluation issues are very similar. I want to provide some experiential perspective around what makes for a solid retail site location assessment for home improvement stores. Most situations have some sort of “expert” or an individual’s bias at play. The more information the better, but keep in mind who is providing it. Remember, they are not investing their own money—you are investing yours. You’re investing in the future of your company and need educated, experienced, unbiased, relevant and fact-based input. There are numerous things to consider when evaluating a site location. Here are some macro considerations to help you avoid pitfalls of site assessment and to serve as foundations for strategic site selection thought: • Establish how strong your brand is to drive customers to your store(s) and if your brand strength can offset any site location deficiencies. • If at all possible, avoid deteriorating neighborhoods or shopping areas. • Make sure that your site is visible to vehicles passing by on a major thoroughfare. • In shopping centers, avoid “armpit” space. Being located in the apex of an “L” often limits visibility, reduces convenient parking spaces near your store entrance and encumbers the ability to use the outside space for selling product. • Avoid “below the grade” sites. On your major thoroughfare, vehicles passing at speed don’t look down. • Never stop with just demographics analyses (population, income, homeowner status, etc.) Dig deeper and get current, voice of customer feedback. Overall, your site location should serve to enhance customer attraction and reduce friction in their store selection process. The only way to validate a site is to go see it, talk to area customers and get their thoughts. Finally, ask: “Would I shop at this location?” And be honest with your answer. Till next time.

CONNECT Email jrobisch@thefarnsworthgroup.com LinkedIn Jim Robisch

Jim Robisch

Senior Partner & Adviser, Ret. The Farnsworth Group

PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER | September 2025

S H COA

OPERATIONS

Stellar Service

Avoid these five customer pitfalls to improve service. Learn more at PDRmag.com/customer-experience-mistakes.

Quality Counts Purchasing Patterns of Paint Pros and Homeowners ACCORDING to data from The Farnsworth Group’s Paint Market: Trends and Sustainability Study, pros and homeowners continue to choose specialty paint stores for their painting needs, especially when looking for quality products.

To capture this market share, be sure to stock a variety of paint brands and formulas to boost sales and ensure customers have a diverse product selection to choose from for their specific projects.

Frequency Purchased From Specialty Paint Stores This Year vs. Last Year

37%

52%

11%

MORE OFTEN

SAME

LESS OFTEN

Home Improvement Product Purchases in Last 90 Days

43%

purchased paint and paint supplies products

Observed Quality Difference Between Paint Brands

> < =

45% Major Difference

49% A Little Difference

All Brands Are the Same

Source: Paint Market: Trends and Sustainability Study, The Farnsworth Group

PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER | September 2025

The Best Just Got Better New FrogTape Advanced™ Painter’s Tape

Introducing FrogTape Advanced™ Painter’s Tape – the best painter’s tape we’ve ever made. Edge-treated with exclusive PaintBlock® Technology, FrogTape Advanced is engineered with everything you love about FrogTape® Multi-Surface plus advanced performance in conformability and shred-resistance, giving you the confidence of professional results – when it matters most.

AD VANCED

FrogTape.com

©Shurtape Technologies, LLC 2025/ASW00850

PR O D U

C TS

OUTREACH

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.

CERAMIC TILE MARBLE SYSTEMS

marblesystems.com The Garden Flowers Blue Glazed Ceramic Tile from Marble Systems is a 6-by-6 inch glazed ceramic tile featuring a hand-painted floral motif. Each tile is ⅜-inch thick and weighs less than one pound.

PAINT ADDITIVE

WALLA WALLA ENVIRONMENTAL

wwenvironmental.com The Mildew-X paint additive from Walla Walla Environmental uses lemongrass and geranium oils to naturally inhibit mold and mildew growth on dried paint films over time. It mixes easily into any latex coating, offers eco-friendly mildew control for indoor and outdoor use and qualifies as a minimum-risk pesticide exempt from EPA registration.

DUST EXTRACTION SYSTEM MILWAUKEE TOOL

milwaukeetool.com M18 Fuel 9-Gallon Dual-Battery Dust Extractor from Milwaukee Tool is a cordless-capable extractor that features automatic filter cleaning, dual HEPA filters and VACLINK wireless control. It can operate on battery or corded power and meets OSHA Table 1 compliance for dust management.

PAINT SPRAYING AND DRYING RACK PAINTLINE

paintline.com The ProDryingRack SD from PaintLine is an integrated vertical system for painting and drying up to 50 cabinet doors using metal hangers and an 18-foot drying line. Heavy-duty assembly sets up in under 10 minutes without tools, breaks down into carry bags and controls door spinning with a matching hanger hook radius. It includes poles, bases, a spinner, spray holder, hangers and hardware for efficient workflows.

PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER | September 2025

HANDLESET KWIKSET

kwikset.com The Brentford exterior-only pull from Kwikset is a non-functioning handleset designed for double doors or entryways where only a pull is needed. It secures quickly with a screwdriver, fits standard 1¾-inch-thick doors and is available in finishes like satin nickel and matte black.

PAINTER’S TAPE FROGTAPE

frogtape.com Advanced Painter’s Tape from FrogTape is a medium-adhesion washi paper tape treated with PaintBlock Technology to seal edges and prevent paint bleed for sharp lines. It’s thin but durable backing conforms around curves and contours without tearing and features nano technology for up to 28-day clean removal indoors and up to seven days outdoors.

More Product Information

OD U R T IN

CING

RichPro MAX TM

Built for speed, coverage, and professional-grade results.

Ideal Applications:

Residential • Commercial • Education Institutional • Office • Hospitality Made in the USA

For more Information call 800•432•0983

A Member of the Star Step Performance Coatings Group

September 2025 | PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER

CAULK OATEY

oatey.com The Hercules Silicone Plumbers Caulk from Oatey is a professional-grade sealant that adheres to a variety of surfaces including wood, glass, porcelain, tile, concrete, grout, metals and most plastics. It creates a flexible, durable, UV-resistant and waterproof seal that resists mildew, cracking, crumbling and shrinking.

PAINT SHIELD ALLWAY TOOLS

allwaytools.com The PS2 Paint Shield from Allway Tools is a polystyrene trim guide fitted with a welded 12-inch stainless-steel edge. It provides a straight, easy-to-clean cutting edge to protect molding, glass, ceilings and other non-painted areas from splatter and overpainting. The sturdy, lightweight design maintains form under pressure and simplifies paint precision without relying on tape.

ONCE & DONE

WHY PROFESSIONALS CHOOSE

ACCELERATOR is designed for productivity. It can be spray painted immediately, brush or rolled in 30 minutes and won't crack or discolor paint. Learn more at www.towersealants.com For product information call 866.897.7568 or email tech@towersealants.com

PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER | September 2025

Smart Training Smarter Teams RetailWise is NHPA’s new AI-powered micro-training program, built exclusively for independent hardware, paint, and lumber retailers. Designed for today’s fast-paced retail environment, RetailWise delivers 52 professionally scripted, two-minute video lessons that ﬁt seamlessly into your store’s daily rhythm — no long classroom sessions or complicated schedules required.

100% DEVICE ACCESSIBILITY RetailWise can be accessed across multiple platforms including, mobile devices, desktops and in-store screens.

COURSE CATEGORIES: Customer Experience & Sales Techniques

Leadership & People Development

Marketing & Local Promotion

Merchandising & Inventory

Operational Excellence

Retail Tech Simpliﬁed

Safety & Risk Management

Store Culture & Team Engagement

Subscribe Today! Scan the QR Code to sign up for RetailWise AI-powered micro-training or visit YourNHPA.org/retailwise.

Have Questions?

Contact Cody Goeppner at cgoeppner@YourNHPA.org.

INDUSTRY AWARDS

Ongoing Recognition The celebration of these incredible young retailers continues with the Young Retailer of the Year recap video. Watch it now at YourNHPA.org/yroty.

SHINING STARS Meet the 2025 NHPA Young Retailer of the Year Honorees

L I N D S EY

mbodying leadership, grit and a passion for the independent channel, this year’s Young Retailer of the Year honorees prove that the future of the industry is in good hands. The Young Retailer of the Year program, now in its 29th year, identifies and promotes the next generation of aspiring independent home improvement, paint and decorating retailers. It recognizes individual achievement by industry retailers age 35 and younger throughout the U.S. and Canada. Honorees are chosen based on a number of criteria, including professional milestones, community engagement, continuing hardware industry education and extracurricular activities.

PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER | September 2025

T HO M P S O N

“This is a launching point that will take you into the future. Lead louder, give more generously and keep growing, even when it’s uncomfortable,” says Cody Goeppner, 2020 Young Retailer of the Year honoree and NHPA director of education and training. “Make sure you lift others up around you as you continue on. Because the future of this industry isn’t just in good hands. It’s in your hands. And the work we do tomorrow together will matter more than any single moment of recognition today.” Read on for the honorees’ insights on leadership and the future of the independent channel and learn more about the positive impact each is making in their operation, their community and the channel at YourNHPA.org/yroty.

HONOREE INSIGHTS

The Rest of the Story Scan the QR code to read the press release and learn more about Jay Engler.

MULTISTORE

JAY ENGLER Director of Merchandising Busy Beaver Building Centers, Inc. As a young retailer, what does leadership look like to you? Leadership to me is fostering an environment where everyone involved is informed, motivated and has the tools needed to succeed. It’s a dynamic process that involves setting direction with the ability to guide and inﬂuence individuals to ensure success. What advice do you have for other young retailers who aspire to make an impact in the industry? Keep grinding and stick to it. Don’t be afraid to take advice, but also do not be afraid to bring up new ideas or processes to improve efﬁciency. You are in your role for a reason—always push to grow the company you work for and your career.

September 2025 | PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER

HONOREE INSIGHTS

The Rest of the Story Scan the QR code to read the press release and learn more about Jacqueline Fenton.

MULTISTORE

JACQUELINE FENTON Chief Operating Ofﬁcer Hassett Ace Hardware As a young retailer, what does leadership look like to you? Being able to lead is a massive gift you should never take for granted and making sure you lead with humility and gratitude is beyond important. I have been lucky to watch some fantastic leaders and draw inspiration from how they have led me. What does it mean to you to be named a Young Retailer of the Year honoree? Being named a Young Retailer of the Year means the world to me. A lot of times we all know that retail can be a thankless job, so I am unbelievably grateful to be acknowledged. I am so lucky to have an owner who cares enough to nominate me but most importantly, one who always supports me in everything I do, even my crazy ideas. I also hope that other women see that hardware is a space for them, and if I can be an example of that, that is extremely exciting for me.

PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER | September 2025

HONOREE INSIGHTS

The Rest of the Story Scan the QR code to read the press release and learn more about Ryan Leger.

MULTISTORE

RYAN LEGER Dealer-Owner Richibucto Home Hardware Building Centre and St. Louis Home Building Centre What excites you the most about the independent home improvement channel? What excites me most about the independent home improvement channel is that independent stores can often be more flexible in making decisions, experimenting with new ideas and adapting to market changes. This freedom fosters a sense of ownership and creativity, and I’m thrilled by the opportunities it presents to innovate and make a difference. What advice do you have for other young retailers who aspire to make an impact in the industry? Listen more than you speak for your first few years. No one is expecting you to have all of the answers right away. Continue to learn, grow and pay attention to your customers’ feedback, as well as feedback from your staff. Network as much as you can and visit other stores to give you perspective. As you build confidence, start to execute on changes you’d like to see and enjoy the process.

September 2025 | PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER

HONOREE INSIGHTS

The Rest of the Story Scan the QR code to read the press release and learn more about Matthew Spinks.

MULTISTORE

MATTHEW SPINKS Branch Store Manager Lumber King What excites you the most about the independent home improvement channel? What excites me most about the independent home improvement channel is the closeness and collaboration of independent retailers across North America. Every day, business owners and young retailers alike are inventing new ways to reach new customers in their markets. Retailers are seizing the opportunities to come together and learn from each other every chance they get. This is making our industry stronger and smarter. As a young retailer, what does leadership look like to you? For me, I want to encourage and teach those around me to be the best versions of themselves while our time is spent together. I want to lead by setting the best example I can not only in the workplace but in everyday life also. I want to lead by showing that I am dedicated to my work and my employees and my customers alike.

PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER | September 2025

HONOREE INSIGHTS

The Rest of the Story Scan the QR code to read the press release and learn more about Huong Luu.

UNDER $3M

HUONG LUU Chief Executive Ofﬁcer Luu Color Center, Inc. What excites you the most about the independent home improvement channel? The heart! Independent retailers are the soul of our industry. We have the ﬂexibility to make decisions fast, the desire to solve real-world problems and the relationships to make a lasting impact in our neighborhoods. I’m constantly inspired by the dedication and resilience of our fellow independents who continue to elevate the customer experience while staying true to their roots and heritage. What advice do you have for other young retailers who aspire to make an impact in the industry? Don’t be afraid. Learn everything you can and trust your instincts and fresh perspective. Be curious, be kind and stay consistent. This industry is built on relationships, so pour into yourself, your team, your customers and your peers. Your impact will grow from the trust you earn and the values you uphold.

September 2025 | PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER

HONOREE INSIGHTS

The Rest of the Story Scan the QR code to read the press release and learn more about Mitchell Stadtlander.

UNDER $3M

MITCHELL STADTLANDER General Manager Cedar Mountain True Value What advice do you have for other young retailers who aspire to make an impact in the industry? It might be unique to my situation, but one thing I’ve had to learn watching our village grow from almost nothing to bordering a full-scale resort is that you have to be comfortable saying no. Taking on work and letting someone down always feels a lot worse than refusing the work in the ﬁrst place. It’s important to improve on all the things you can do. What does it mean to you to be named a Young Retailer of the Year honoree? Sometimes you feel like you are grinding away your life just to get by another few years. Winning Young Retailer of the Year validates for me that what I am doing is unique, it is working and it does provide value that other people see as important. With the loss of two employees in my busy season, I’m struggling to handle even day-to-day operations, but I think that ﬁnding the will to keep going and carving my business’ path through another year shows just how much it means to myself and the community.

PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER | September 2025

HONOREE INSIGHTS

The Rest of the Story Scan the QR code to read the press release and learn more about Brookelyn McClellan.

OVER $3M

BROOKELYN MCCLELLAN Marketing and Business Strategy Manager Hardware Sales What excites you the most about the independent home improvement channel? There’s so much potential in the independent home improvement channel, and that’s what makes it so exciting. There are always new innovations and fresh ways of doing things. It’s an industry that’s constantly evolving—it stays interesting, keeps you on your toes and never gets boring. What does it mean to you to be named a Young Retailer of the Year honoree? It honestly means so much. When I got the call, I was completely shocked—I couldn’t believe it. There are so many incredible people in this industry who are more than worthy of this recognition. To be considered among them is a huge honor, and it’s only motivating me more to keep pushing toward my goals and continue growing into the kind of leader who truly earns it.

September 2025 | PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER

HONOREE INSIGHTS

The Rest of the Story Scan the QR code to read the press release and learn more about Skylar Stevenson.

OVER $3M

SKYLAR STEVENSON Owner Stevenson’s Ace Hardware What excites you the most about the independent home improvement channel? The community aspect excites me the most. I believe the local hardware store has stood the test of time, and if you are listening to your customer’s needs, adapting to what they want, focused on the future and ﬁnding ways to give back, the local independent has a strong story for the coming years. I want to be so involved in my community to the point that if my business were gone tomorrow, it would be dearly missed by all generations of our community. What advice do you have for other young retailers who aspire to make an impact in the industry? Follow your heart and dreams. Don’t be afraid to dream big and then dream bigger! Ask questions even if you think you will be told no. I often thought a simple phone call would be a rejection, but some have become my greatest accomplishments. Don’t be afraid of rejection.

PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER | September 2025

Congratulations To the honorees on their outstanding achievements

Retention is Your New Competitve Edge 24/7 Live Pricing & Inventory

Give customers real-time stock availability and pricing to quote with confidence. Expand your product offerings through EDI managed catalogs, and keep customers loyal with preferred pricing and rewards. Integration For Buying Group Catalogs

LEARN MORE AT ECISOLUTIONS.COM/ PRODUCTS/SPRUCE Preferred Pricing & Rewards Programs

Proud Sponsor of the Young Retailer of the Year Program WE TAKE PRIDE IN YOUR RESULTS™ Wooster® offers American-made solutions that will give you better results with less effort— every project, every time.

847-269-8617 info@americanhli.com September 2025 | PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER NHPA ad YROTY 24.indd 1

7/29/2024 10:02:42 AM

IND

TRY EVE US

Ignite. Innovate. Inspire. Industry Leaders Unite in Orlando to Share Insights, Spark Innovation and Drive the Industry Forward

B Y

L I N D S E Y

ddressing top-of-mind topics, gleaning practical operational best practices and learning to be a little more creative, attendees of the 2025 Independent Home Improvement Conference (IHI Conference) left Orlando energized and invigorated to move the channel forward. Hosted by the North American Hardware and Paint Association (NHPA) and The Hardware Conference, the conference was held at the stunning JW Marriott Orlando Grande Lakes and included retailers of all sizes from all affiliations, vendors, wholesalers and other industry partners.

Bringing the Industry Together and Moving It Forward

Each afternoon, the General Session featured speakers and panel presentations from the main stage. Kicking off Day 1, NHPA COO Dan Tratensek gave his State of the Industry presentation, providing insights into how the industry has performed so far in 2025 and where it’s

PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER | September 2025

T H O M P S O N

moving. Tratensek says that even though the pandemic was five years ago, the entire industry is still “shell shocked” and facing challenges like inflation, delayed purchases, economic uncertainty and social uncertainty. “This has caused independent retailers to rethink and reframe the basic value proposition that they stood behind for decades,” Tratensek says. “Convenience, service and product knowledge now mean something completely different. Convenience is giving way to curation, service is evolving to relationship cultivation and product knowledge is transitioning to customer confirmation.” During Top Guns Live: Leadership Lessons From the Industry’s Boldest Leaders, the 2025 Top Guns honorees shared insights on leading their teams, leaders they admire and what the future of the industry looks like. This year’s honorees included president of Florida Paints Jeff Grasty, president of Gold Beach Lumber Yard Ryan Ringer and president of Home Lumber & Supply Hervey Wright.

INDUSTRY EVENTS

Take a Closer Look

Read about all the other highlights from the 2025 IHI Conference at hardwareretailing.com/2025-IHI-roundup.

Closing out Day 2, Dave King, executive director of the Home Improvement Research Institute, broke down the key economic factors—unemployment, inflation, interest rates—influencing home improvement behaviors in 2025 in his presentation, Macro-Economic Factors Impacting Home Improvement Behaviors. The General Session on Day 2 celebrated industry powerhouses during the panel presentation Voices of Impact: A Conversation With Young Retailer of the Year and Beacon Award Honorees. These high-caliber retailers shared their stories, strategies and lessons learned from building strong teams, embracing innovation and driving meaningful change in their communities and businesses. Huong Luu, chief executive officer of Luu Color Center and Young Retailer of the Year honoree, lost her father to COVID-19 and took on his business without any formal training in retailing, turning it into a thriving operation. “When my dad passed away, I threw myself into the one tangible thing I had left of him—his business,” Luu says. “I poured everything I had into bringing his business back to life. Looking back, I realized I didn’t take over the business because I saw potential. I took it over because of love.” Former Disney head of innovation and creativity Duncan Wardle sparked creative thoughts in an engaging keynote that appealed to three learning styles. He says we make creativity too difficult because we overthink everything and experience analysis paralysis. “Creativity is a muscle. The more you use it, the stronger it gets,” Wardle says. “But we think we can’t break our habits. We think we can’t learn new ones, but the habit of continually doing things in new ways makes a positive difference to our working lives.”

“I ask, ‘What do we want to accomplish? What do we want to push? What kind of culture do we want to drive?’” Smith says. “All of these solutions we’ve implemented are really easy, but are cost-effective and have made huge impacts.”

IHI Celebrates the Best of the Best in the Industry For the first time ever, the NHPA Young Retailer of the Year Awards and the Beacon Awards came together to celebrate excellence in the industry during the All-Industry Awards Gala on the first night of the conference. As a Young Retailer of the Year honoree himself in 2020, Cody Goeppner, NHPA director of education and training, says hosted the All-Industry Awards. ‘The evening was a celebration of momentum, innovation and legacy,” Goeppner says. “It was all about recognizing how far passion and purpose can take you and honoring the people who are building, growing and giving back at every level. It was a celebration that both humbled and inspired.”

Making Connections in the Partner Pavilion In the Partner Pavilion, over 20 exhibitors engaged with attendees and shared their services that can help attendees take their business to the next level in a variety of operational areas. Jeff Flogel from Seattle, Washington, attended the IHI Conference looking for inspiration to set-up his new store. “In the Partner Pavilion, I spent a lot of time with the vendors I met and was able to get a lot of help from the distributors and vendors attending on setting up and stocking a new store,” Flogel says.

Breakout Sessions Produce Practical Solutions and Helpful Takeaways

Partner Events Expanded Learning and Networking

From creating a customer experience for every generation to innovation to expanding B2B sales, the breakout sessions at the IHI Conference took a deep dive into the most-pressing topics facing retailers in the independent channel. In Beyond Your 4 Walls: Expanding B2B Sales Strategies for Long-Term Success, Flanagan Paint owner Jay Donnelly says building a successful B2B program starts small. “Pick two customers a week and make a point to see their shop,” Donnelly says. “Start small. You don’t build friendships overnight, so it is all about consistency and building trust.” Isaac Smith, owner of Matt’s Building Materials, shared in the How Independent Retailers Are Innovating to Win session that implementing technology starts with finding solutions to your operation’s most-pressing issues, not necessarily relying on the latest and greatest.

Partner Events at the IHI Conference welcomed attendees to gain insights on a variety of topics. Addressing hot topics impacting the independent channel, Do it Best and True Value hosted two informational sessions presented by Stefanie Couch, nationally recognized speaker, lifelong leader in the hardware and building industry and strategic brand partner for Do it Best and True Value. Epicor’s training sessions took a closer look at the products and services the company provides for retail operations, including Epicor pricing tools and Epicor Eagle. The Orgill Partner Event included the Orgill Services Area, where attendees explored the tools, programs and support Orgill offers and educational sessions, covering topics like tariffs, cost volatility, store planning, assortment strategy, managing payroll, employee loyalty, strategies for selling paint and the new Orgill Innovation Center.

September 2025 | PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER

A LEGACY OF SERVICE John Azaltovic Follows in Family’s Military Footsteps

L I N D S EY

T HO M P S O N

onoring a family legacy of military service, John Azaltovic served in the U.S. Navy from 1995 to 2004 on submarines as a culinary specialist. He followed in the footsteps of his father, who served in the Navy as a SeaBee during Vietnam and both of his grandfathers who each served in the Navy during World War II on small gun boats.

PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER | September 2025

ASSOCIATION

An Honor to Serve

NHPA is sharing the stories of these hometown heroes in all of its media brands. Visit YourNHPA.org/veterans to read more about these honorees.

PAYING TRIBUTE 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, in 2025 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.

John Azaltovic served in the U.S. Navy from 1995 to 2004 on submarines as a culinary specialist and now serves as a manager for Cole’s Hardware.

September 2025 | PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER

ASSOCIATION

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.

Service at Sea John Azaltovic spent time on the USS James K Polk and the USS Montpelier, both out of Norfolk, Virginia.

PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER | September 2025

“I am very proud of the company I work for. It is that same proud feeling I had from my service in the Navy. I love my job and the people I work with and for.” —John Azaltovic, Cole’s Hardware During his time in the Navy, John served on the USS James K Polk, a slow approach Navy Seal delivery submarine, and the USS Montpelier, a fast attack submarine, both of which served out of Norfolk, Virginia. As a Petty Officer First Class (SS), John says he loved getting to travel to other countries as part of his military duties. “My favorite part of my time in service was the lifelong friends I gained,” John says. After getting out of the Navy, John started his career with Best Buy, helping them open three new stores in North Carolina, South Carolina and Pennsylvania over his nine-year stint with the company. From there, he followed a recruitment call to Dick’s Sporting Goods where he spent another five years as a hardlines manager, merchandising multiple departments of the store and leading customer service. “Then an opportunity came along to work for a very well-known hardware chain in central Pennsylvania that I had always loved shopping at,” John says. He took the leap of faith and joined the Cole’s Hardware family, starting out as an assistant manager and customer service manager at one of the stores. “I just loved that when you work for Cole’s Hardware, you don’t feel like a number; my input actually mattered,” John says. After about a year, John took over as the store manager of the Danville location, which is where the company

started back in 1883 under the guidance of J.H. Cole. Cole’s Hardware is still family-owned and now has 12 locations, stocking over 15,000 different branded items. “I am very proud of the company I work for. It is that same proud feeling I had from my service in the Navy,” John says. “I love my job and the people I work with and for.” One of the biggest lessons John has transferred from the military is how to be an effective leader and bring people along for success. “I am not a boss, I am a leader,” John says. “My team knows not to call me their boss, but rather, I want to be known as their co-worker who just has a higher pay grade.” Along with leadership attributes, John says military veterans bring a number of other employee skills to the independent home improvement channel that businesses are looking for. “Veterans show dedication, reliability and pride in self,” he says. “They also have the ability to adapt and overcome any number of obstacles, all which are important qualities in this industry.”

T H A N K YOU TO O U R PR O GR A M S PO N S O R S

September 2025 | PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER

RESOURCES

The Data You Need

NHPA conducts industry research throughout the year, providing data to help retailers be better and more profitable. Learn more at YourNHPA.org/research.

MIDYEAR CHECKPOINT U N D E R S T A N D I N G how independent home improvement operations are performing throughout the year helps retailers in the channel compare themselves to others and use that data to make improvements to their operations. Since 2022, the North American Hardware and Paint Association (NHPA) has partnered with The Farnsworth Group to produce the Independent Retailer Index, which tracks key performance metrics quarterly. Every quarter, the index asks independent home improvement retailers to share year-over-year changes in: • Transaction count and size • Inventory investment • Cost of goods • Profit margin dollars • Future operational investments The most recent Independent Retail Index shares some potentially positive signs about independent retailers’ performance in Q2, but a deeper look at the numbers somewhat tempers this outlook.

According to the index, which fielded responses from 68 different companies, representing hundreds of independent storefronts across the U.S., 38% of respondents reported that sales increased in Q2 2025 versus Q2 2024. This number compares to the 37% reporting sales declines and 25% posting flat sales during the period. The mean sales increase from respondents in Q2 2025 versus the same period last year was 2.8%; however, looking at the median data, sales for the group were flat year over year. This median data more closely corresponds with some of the national averages being reported by the Department of Commerce, which shows the industry down 0.5% through the first six months of the year and off slightly in Q2. “I think, in essence, this data is showing us that the industry and independents are kind of stalled right now,” says Dan Tratensek, NHPA COO. “There are pockets of the country that are definitely performing better than the average, but overall I think we are still trying to get things moving in a positive direction.”

CHANGES IN TOTAL SALES (YEAR OVER YEAR)

Increased

47%

Stayed the Same

Percent Change (Mean)

Decreased

2.8 38%

33%

29%

38%

37%

35% 25% 18%

-0.2 Q2 2023

Q2 2024

PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER | September 2025

Q2 2025

Q2 2023

-0.8 Q2 2024

Q2 2025

CHANGES IN TRANSACTION COUNT (YEAR OVER YEAR)

Another potential bright spot for independents revealed in the index is that transaction count held relatively ﬂat against Q2 last year, up 0.2%, which would be only the second time in the last two years that transaction counts have not declined.

Percent Change (Mean)

Increased Stayed the Same Decreased

49%

44%

39% 32%

24%

27%

24%

34%

1.8 1.1 0.7

Q2 2023

Q2 2024

Q2 2025

Q2 2023

Q2 2024

Q2 2025

CHANGES IN TRANSACTION SIZE (YEAR OVER YEAR)

Transaction size continued to show slight increases YOY in Q2 with 44% of respondents reporting increases against only 18% reporting declines. The mean increase in transaction size among respondents was 1.1%.

Increased Stayed the Same

Percent Change (Mean)

Decreased

45%

44%

33%

0.2

39%

38% 33%

29%

21%

18%

-1.0

-2.1 Q2 2023

Q2 2024

Q2 2025

Q2 2023

Q2 2024

Q2 2025

ACCESS THE INDEX Be sure you’re on the list to receive the newest data from the Independent Retailer Index quarterly. Head to YourNHPA.org/research to subscribe today.

September 2025 | PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER

RESOURCES

4 Ways Merchandising Drives Sales

O RY FO

CA T

See how other retailers make the most of their merchandising at PDRmag.com/merchandising-drives.

SQUEAKY SALES HOW TO KEEP THE SPONGES, RAGS AND CLEANUP CATEGORY FRESH BY

ANN I E

or paint professionals, maintaining a clean workspace is essential in presenting themselves in a professional way and earning repeat customers, and for DIYers, dealing with mess during projects is a hassle. Investing time and money in your cleanup product category can result in increased sales and higher customer satisfaction and loyalty.

PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER | September 2025

PAL M ER

Meldrim’s Paint Center has served the central New York region since 1927 and has five locations in central New York. Paint and Decorating Retailer spoke with Paul Read, manager of Meldrim’s Cortland, New York, location, who shared the evolution of the sponge, rag and cleanup tools section in his store and the best practices he has found to boost sales in this category.

Location Matters

At Meldrim’s, the cleanup tools section makes up a small portion of the store, but brings a big sales impact. These products are often afterthoughts for customers, so making this section prominent on store shelves was a crucial step for Read to attract customer attention and drive sales. Typically, customers who visit Meldrim’s Paint Center are shopping for other items and not coming into the store just for a rag or cleanup tool, Read says. Customers either come back for these products at a later time or find these items at a big-box store. “It’s highly advantageous for us to have a fairly large display of rags and garbage bags somewhere near the counter to remind customers they need these items before they leave the store and have to come back or buy elsewhere,” Read says.

To keep sales going, Meldrim’s treats cleaning supplies as impulse buys. “These products are usually add-on sales, although some specialty name-brand items can bring someone into the store,” he says.

Keeping the Category Fresh

Demand has remained fairly steady in this category for Meldrim’s, but specialized cleaners have taken off dramatically in the last three years. “I think the surge in demand for these products is due to a combination of better internet marketing and better selling at the counter,” he says. Before making a purchase, customers often prefer to test-run a product to see if it will work for them and their specific needs. Meldrim’s has noticed increased sales in the cleanup category when customers are able to test out a name-brand product in a smaller package size before purchasing a bulk amount.

Meldrim’s Paint Center displays their rags and cleanup tools at the front of the stores and near the checkout counter so customers can easily browse this section.

September 2025 | PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER

“Having customers try products first allows the customer to dip their toes in on a specialty item,” Read says. “Once customers try them and know they work for their needs, they usually are going to buy a bulk pack after that.” For some of these more specialized products, Meldrim’s draws from customer recommendations. Read’s customers are typically the first to know what products are trending and popular. “There are customers who have already found a product they love and want to see it in our store,” Read says. “If they can find somewhere locally, like our store, we can bring in more business just by adding that product on display.”

The Must-Have Tool for Painting, Sanding and More Good for more than just scrubbing dishes, sponges come in a variety of shapes, materials and uses and are a must-have for any paint store. From faux painting to sanding, stock a variety of sponges, including these popular options below, and educate customers on how they can make their jobs easier and more effective.

Polishing Sponges

Used with buffers, polishers and other similar tools, polishing sponges are good for polishing out marks and blemishes on a wide variety of surfaces. They are also used to apply coatings, glazes and other specialty paints.

Abrasive Sponges

Ideal for removing old paint, stain and coatings, abrasive sponges typically come in blocks. Abrasive sponges can also be used for drywalling.

Craft Sponges

Many best-selling products at Meldrim’s Paint were introduced to the store by customers.

34 PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER | September 2025

From faux finishes to staining projects, craft sponges help DIYers and professionals achieve a specialized look.

Try Before You Buy Specialty cleanup products offered at Meldrim’s Paint come in a variety of sizes, allowing customers to try products before committing to purchasing larger amounts.

“Now, with the internet and social media, you have customers come in and say, ‘Hey, have you ever seen these?’ or ‘I saw these on Instagram last night, can you get these?’ That has changed compared to 10 years ago.” —Paul Read, Meldrim’s Paint Center

Read has adjusted his product selection process in this category as more customers bring in recommendations. “As far as new and trending items, some of that now comes from our customers, which is funny because it used to be the opposite,” he says. “Customers didn’t know about something unless you put it in your store. Now, with the internet and social media, you have customers come in and say, ‘Hey, have you ever seen these?’ or ‘I saw these on Instagram last night, can you get these?’ That has changed compared to 10 years ago, when we were the ones showing them what was available.”

September 2025 | PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER

S M A KE

RESOURCES

News to You Subscribe to our weekly newsletters at PDRmag.com/subscribe to get the latest news and trends.

What You Need to Know in September Sherwin-Williams Unveils 2026 Color Trend Report

The Sherwin-Williams Company released the 2026 Colormix Trend Forecast Anthology Volume Two, the second iteration of the company’s biennial approach to the annual color trend report. The collection contains 48 hand-selected hues and is organized by color family, including frosted tints, sunbaked hues, restorative darks and foundational neutrals. This iteration was developed with both residential and commercial design in mind.

Houzz Report Reveals Rise of AI Adoption in Construction and Design

Houzz Inc.’s 2025 U.S. Houzz State of AI in Construction and Design Report provides a comprehensive view into the industry’s reaction to the rapidly evolving AI landscape. The report surveyed over 700 construction and design professionals, reporting broad awareness, moderate adoption and high expectations for AI’s impact.

Government Tariffs Cause Volatility in Import Cargo Volume

Import cargo volume at the nation’s major container ports is expected to bounce back this month after a significant decrease in late spring, but is expected to fall again after previously paused tariffs take effect, according to the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates’ Global Port Tracker.

Research Reveals America’s Housing Supply Crisis

The American housing market is facing a persistent shortage with home prices reaching record highs as affordability has decreased, according to the National Association of Home Builders’ Eye on Housing. New home construction has not kept up with population growth and household formation, especially following the surge of demand following the pandemic.

To read these news stories and other news, visit PDRmag.com/industry-news.

PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER | September 2025

Working for You Since 1900 The mission of the North American Hardware and Paint Association (NHPA) is to help independent home improvement, paint and decorating retailers, regardless of affiliations, become better and more profitable retailers. INDUSTRY-LEADING PUBLICATIONS NHPA publishes two monthly magazines, Hardware Retailing and Paint & Decorating Retailer, featuring best practices, strategic solutions, new products and trends.

COST OF DOING BUSINESS STUDY

For 100+ years, independent home improvement retailers have used NHPA’s Cost of Doing Business Study to benchmark their business and plan for financial growth.

BUSINESS SERVICES

NHPA offers a wide range of business services, including workers’ compensation and liability insurance, health insurance, credit card processing and more to help retailers save time and money.

INDUSTRY NEWS & TRENDS

The association’s publications— Hardware Retailing and Paint & Decorating Retailer—deliver relevant, timely industry news and trends in e-newsletters and on social media every week.

LEADERSHIP TRAINING

NHPA’s Foundations of Leadership online courses build leadership skills and confidence, empowering managers to lead and drive team success.

PREMIER MANAGEMENT PROGRAM 300+ retailers over 11+ years have chosen the Retail Management Certification Program to master innovative retail practices and strategic management skills to grow their careers and businesses.

TRAINING & LICENSING

ROUNDTABLES

RETAIL MARKETPLACE

INDUSTRY EVENTS

With 43+ training courses and 273+ modules, NHPA’s training and licensing solutions are the most comprehensive in the industry.

NHPA Retail Marketplace is the industry’s resource for buying and selling independent home improvement stores and posting jobs.

NHPA facilitates and hosts nearly a dozen annual retailer roundtables covering topics such as finance, merchandising, marketing, technology, training and more.

NHPA organizes 14 annual live and virtual events, including the Independent Home Improvement Conference, Top Guns Awards and Young Retailer of the Year Awards.

Visit YourNHPA.org or scan the QR code to see how NHPA’s programs, tools, events and trainings can help you.

NETWORK

Make a Plan CALENDAR

Visit YourNHPA.org/cal to find more industry events online.

This index is provided for the convenience of our advertisers and readers. The publisher assumes no liability for errors or omissions.

3M ..............................................................................................................................................3 3M.com

SEPT Do it Best and True Value Fall Market September 5-8 | INDIANAPOLIS, IN

Benjamin Moore ..................................................................................................... IBC benjaminmoore.com

PACOA – Fall Dealer Market

ECI Software Solutions.........................................................................................23 ecisolutions.com

September 6-7 | FLUSHING, NY

Bradley Caldwell Fall Show September 9-11 | ATLANTIC CITY, NJ

Home Hardware 2025 Homecoming

Golden Painworks......................................................................................................12 goldenpaintworks.com ICP Group ............................................................................................................................ 7 icpgroup.com Midwest Fastener......................................................................................................23 fastenerconnection.com

September 10-12 | TORONTO

NHPA .....................................................................................................................................37 YourNHPA.org

Blish Mize Fall Customer Buying Market

NHPA Retail Marketplace ............................................................................... 39 YourNHPA.org/marketplace

September 10-12 | OVERLAND PARK, KS

NHPA RetailWise ........................................................................................................13 YourNHPA.org/retailwise

OCT

Old Masters ................................................................................................................. IFC myoldmasters.com

Wallace Fall Dealer Market

PPG ....................................................................................................................................... BC ppgpaints.com

October 1-2 | SEVIERVILLE, TN

Wyatt Quarlers Fall Dealers Show

Richards Paint ................................................................................................................11 richardspaint.com

October 1-2 | MYRTLE BEACH, FL

Shurtape Technologies ........................................................................................ 9 shurtape.com

Hardlines Conference

Tower Sealants .............................................................................................................12 towersealants.com

October 21-22 | BANFF, ALBERTA

Scan the QR code to see our full list of events. YourNHPA.org/cal *Events are current as of press day. To add your event to the industry calendar, send an email to editorial@YourNHPA.org.

American Hardware & Lumber Insurance .........................................23 americanhli.com

PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER | September 2025

Wooster Brush .............................................................................................................23 woosterbrush.com

Buy a Store | Sell Your Business | Post a Job, Get a Business Valuation | Find a Lender and More BUSINESS FOR SALE

BUSINESS FOR SALE

Northwest Farm & Home Supply Co.

Home Improvement Supply Store Location: Missouri Gross Revenue: $1.04 million

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

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

Hoosick True Value

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

For our next acquisition, we are looking for:

Location: Alabama Gross Revenue: $2.21 million Price: $649,000

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.

Location: Pennsylvania Gross Revenue: $1.6 million

Gold Beach Lumber Yard

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

SEEKING BUSINESSES

BUSINESS FOR SALE

Private Business

SEEKING BUSINESSES

Bolster Hardware

• Single-store and multi-store hardware operations • Located in northeast and southeast United States • Store size of 5,000-30,000 ft2 • At least $3 million in average store sales

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

SEEKING BUSINESSES

The Aubuchon Company

Location: Vermont Gross Revenue: $2.82 million Price: $1.1 million

Private Business

Albrights Hardware & Garden Center

Location: Hoosick Falls, NY Gross Revenue: $1.26 million Price: $1.875 million

BUSINESS FOR SALE

Central Vermont Paint, Flooring and Decorating Business

• Single-store and multi-store hardware operations • Located in the Pacific Northwest • Store size of 5,000 ft2-30,000 ft2

JOB LISTING

The Helpful Hardware Company

Randall Lumber & Hardware, Inc.

• 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+

• 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

We are looking for:

Position: Hardware, Ranch and Feed Department Manager

To see full listings, visit YourNHPA.org/marketplace or email marketplace@yournhpa.org IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

FINISH

EDUCATION

Training Levels Up Find solutions for growing your business with the NPHA Academy for Retail Development. Learn more at YourNHPA.org/education/academy.

Bite-Sized, High-Impact Learning NHPA REVEALS AI-POWERED MICRO-TRAINING SESSIONS THROUGH RETAILWISE

s it continually strives to make independent home improvement retailers better and more profitable, the North American Hardware and Paint Association (NHPA) is leaning into technology to bring efficient and time-saving training offerings to the channel. The new RetailWise program will deliver fast, low-effort and high-impact two-minute training videos developed with artificial intelligence that are designed to strengthen the frontline skills of independent hardware, paint and lumber retailers. Built for use in team huddles, during shift meetings and throughout the onboarding process, this series will help improve performance, culture and consistency—without disrupting store operations. “Our goal with RetailWise is to make training so easy and effective, it becomes part of the natural rhythm of a retail operation,” says Cody Goeppner, NHPA director of education and training. “Whether you have five employees, 50 or over 100, these short sessions provide real-time tools that build smarter, more confident teams.” From shortening the ramp-up time for new hires to re-energizing teams with fun, fast learning, RetailWise is easy to implement and will provide a way for employees to improve knowledge retention and reinforce standards in a digestible way.

40 PAINT & DECORATING RETAILER | September 2025

“The goal was to build something incredibly flexible,” Goeppner says. “We didn’t want to prescribe how retailers should train. Instead, we designed RetailWise to adapt to any store’s pace, priorities and culture.” The full suite of 52 micro-training videos will cover a range of topics, including customer experience and sales techniques, leadership and people development, operational excellence, merchandising and inventory, marketing and local promotion, safety and risk management, store culture and team engagement, product and project knowledge and financials. “We’re speaking to the real issues retailers face every day—from customer interactions to internal team dynamics,” Goeppner says. “We made sure the tone, timing and takeaways all reflect the realities of the salesfloor.” All of the videos will be hosted on NHPA learning platforms that will be 100% accessible from any device and include downloadable discussion guides. RetailWise will also include an integrated feedback loop with retailers, providing opportunities for continuous improvement. “We’re focused on practical impact—helping stores strengthen culture, improve performance and retain great people,” Goeppner says. “RetailWise makes that possible in just two minutes a week.” Visit YourNHPA.org/retailwise to learn more.

Trusted by Generations of Painting Pros

• Proprietary stain-release technology means stains wash clean • Unbeatable flow and leveling for professional results every time • Durable finish resists scuffing to preserve premium results

Contact your Benjamin Moore rep to learn more. To find your rep, call 1-866-708-9180, email info@benjaminmoore.com, or visit benjaminmoore.com.

RELIABLE, TRUSTED PRODUCTS TAILORED TO YOUR CUSTOMER NEEDS Exclusive To Our Dealer Partners Find out more at ppgpaints.com/dealer-exclusive

© 2025 The Pittsburgh Paints Co. All Rights Reserved. The P Logo & Pittsburgh Paints is a trademark of The Pittsburgh Paints Co. Manor Hall, Ultra-Hide, Weather King, and Wonder-Tones are registered trademarks of The Pittsburgh Paints Co.The PPG Logo is a registered trademark of PPG Industries Ohio, Inc. PG_1727956

Paint & Decorating Retailer September 2025