Operations

For independent hardware retailers, turning a modest plumbing section into a powerhouse category starts with meeting customers where their plumbing problems begin. According to a survey of 1,001 U.S. homeowners conducted by SupplyHouse, 93% of homeowners delay plumbing or HVAC …

For 20 years, Sam Mackey served in the U.S. military, working his way through the ranks in the U.S. Navy to become a Navy SEAL. Inspired to join after watching the movie “Navy SEALs,” Mackey enlisted in January 2004 and …

Provided by the Home Improvement Research Institute Research from The Home Improvement Research Institute (HIRI) suggests independent retailers can compete in electrical, plumbing and HVAC by understanding when customers choose suppliers, who purchases materials and how plumbing purchases differ. These …

Sponsored by Quikrete Homebuilding construction methods continue to evolve, influenced by regional requirements, material availability and market demand. Based on an analysis of 2025 Census Bureau data by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), wood framing remains the dominant …

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 …