Operations

Sometimes, not knowing where you are going can actually lead you down the right path. Ikaika “Daniel” Keliikoa was unsure what path he wanted to pursue after graduating high school, but felt a pull to join the military. He felt …

It is not an easy topic to talk about, but one every single operation will have to address at some point: succession planning. The independent home improvement retailing channel, and independent small businesses as a whole, are undergoing a massive …

Becoming more than just an operational service, delivery provides another way for independent retailers to compete on convenience, customer experience and localized service. Busy Beaver Home Centers, which has 19 stores in Pennsylvania, West Virginia and Ohio, is approaching  last-mile …

As the holiday seasons roll around, make sure your operation is ready to attract customers and keep them shopping in your store with these promotional ideas. Thematic Sets: Connect related products. Instead of just stocking holiday lights, display them with …

Bringing the entire independent home improvement channel together for two days of education, networking and fun under the Florida sun at the JW Marriott Grande Lakes in Orlando, the 2026 Independent Home Improvement Conference sent attendees home with practical takeaways …

The Foundations of Retail Program courses led by the North American Hardware and Paint Association (NHPA) help managers and key employees understand the essential concepts of leadership, personal development and merchandising. Built with flexibility for busy schedules, these online courses …

Buying a new home requires purchasing various items to outfit the new space, including appliances, furniture, decor items, renovation tools and other home accessories. According to recent data from the National Association of Home Builders’ Consumer Expenditure Survey, buyers of …

Succession planning can be hard, uncomfortable and awkward. I have been through the succession planning process personally and have advised others as they navigated ownership transitions. Every situation is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. While I have a …