Operations

While not unique to the independent channel, wage challenges can cause extra stress on small business owners already juggling tight margins. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in February 2026, wages rose more than expected, increasing 0.4% for …

While market conditions remain reasonably strong for most remodelers, the industry is continuing to experience rising costs and some customer hesitation due to policy and economic uncertainty. Currently, remodeling demand is being supported primarily by an aging housing stock, strong …

For 80 years, Seashore Ace Home & Outdoor Living has been the go-to source for coastal comfort and outdoor living in the seaside community of Stone Harbor, New Jersey. Now in its third generation of family ownership, the store has …

As lawn and garden season accelerates, mid-to-large yard investments are proving to be more strategic and segmented than many may assume. According to the Home Improvement Research Institute’s (HIRI) 2025 Project Decision Study, yard, garden and outdoor projects reflect a …

Providing the space to source smarter and scale faster, NHS Concept to Commerce is the retail industry’s premier event connecting retailers, product development teams, wholesalers and distributors with inventors, private label partners and global factories, streamlining product discovery, supplier sourcing …

Whether you want it or not, your store has a digital “twin” living online and providing a first impression to existing and potential customers online. Not only is your digital twin interacting with customers, it’s what artificial intelligence (AI) is …

From a legacy of military service to finding a new home at Do it Best, Cole Atwood’s journey from the U.S. Army to the independent home improvement industry was marked by dedication and teamwork. Growing up, Atwood was surrounded by …

Today’s customer is hyper-sensitive and not overly loyal. With 43% of consumers reporting a poor customer service experience prevents them from making a repeat purchase, there is little margin for error in the modern marketplace.  Some elements of customer experience …