Tag Archives: operations

Sponsored by Quikrete Outdoor living is an essential part of everyday life for many homeowners, with more tackling larger projects and curating spaces outside the home. According to the 2026 U.S. Houzz Outdoor Trends Study, personalized projects that are both …

Looking at how fellow independent home improvement operations perform throughout the year gives retailers in the channel a benchmark for improving their own operations. Since 2022, the North American Hardware and Paint Association (NHPA) has partnered with The Farnsworth Group …

When creating outdoor spaces, homeowners are not only building areas to gather and enjoy fresh air, but are making these spaces extensions of their home. According to the 2026 Outdoor Living Report from Deckorators, homeowners look for a balance of …

Research from The Home Improvement Research Institute (HIRI) suggests opportunities for independent retailers supplying materials for decking projects are evolving. Success now depends less on simple availability and more on how well retailers respond to a more deliberate and assurance-seeking …

Celebrating its 20th year honoring trailblazing retailers in the channel, the North American Hardware and Paint Association (NHPA) has named its 2026 Top Guns Awards honorees, including Jason Blair, CEO of TAL Building Centers, based in the Pacific Northwest. “Top …

Built for owners and managers in the home improvement industry looking to boost their leadership skill set, the North American Hardware and Paint Association’s Retail Management Certification Program (RMCP) is the industry’s premier management school, focusing on growing store sales …

Earlier in this issue, we met this year’s first Top Guns Awards honoree, David Enmark, who shared how important it is to empower the next generation in the independent home improvement channel to become those next leaders. Engaging with the …

By Mike Aylen In a recent post on social media, I recounted a question I am often asked by retailers: “What is the easiest way to improve margin?” My answer is always the same: “Start with the margin you are …