Operations

Recent shootings and other workplace violence on the news are enough to make any store owner uneasy, but some practical steps in parking lots can improve security for your employees and customers. Incidents of workplace violence have not been tracked thoroughly, but some data from 2003 to 2008 …

The numbers can be overwhelming at times, but it’s important to keep an eye on them to help measure the financial health of your business. Below are five metrics you should know and use to better understand your operation. Average …

To view a PDF of the story click here. Best in Class  There’s no doubt about it—independent retailers in the home improvement industry are an innovative, thriving and progressive group. The industry is full of profit-focused, forward-thinking retailers committed to …

To view a PDF of this story, click here.   To learn how to sell outdoor power equipment in a small store, click here. Operating in High Gear To start the peak spring season, Roy Mason stocks 40 different models of …

Less is more when it comes to building your brand presence. That’s the conclusion of a study from Siegel and Gale, the Global Brand Simplicity Index. The study asked consumers to rank brands based on their simplicity, and what it …

Since California and New York approved minimum wage increases this month, minimum wage is fresh on business owners’ minds. But increases–even up to a $15 base wage–aren’t cause for intense anxiety, says Gina Schaefer, who owns A Few Cool Hardware Stores’ 11 locations in Washington, D.C., …

Getting more young people interested in a career in hardware retailing is critical to the future of the industry. And for Luke Wiesen, general manager at Millard Lumber’s Spring Hill, Kansas, location, it’s equally important to get students interested in …

On April 22, people will celebrate Earth Day in unique ways, and independent home improvement stores are getting in on the action. Many businesses are hosting events or raising awareness around the holiday in other ways, but several stores have Earth care as part …