HBSD May 2026

Paul Montalbano and Monnick Supply represent Massachusetts in the class of 2026.

A STORY ABOUT GROWING THROUGH AGILITY

Agri Supply has never fit neatly into a single category. Since opening in 1962, what began as a small operation has grown into a multi-faceted business built around serving the diverse needs of our customers.

At our core, we are a retail and wholesale farm and ag supply company with nine locations across the Southeast, including Virginia, Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina. Our stores range from 40,000 to 120,000 square feet and carry roughly 40,000 items, with strong assortments in agricultural supplies, trailer and mower parts, fencing and three-point equipment. We’ve also developed our own brands, like Carolina Cooker, which has become an important part of our business

Because of the markets we serve, there is no one-size-fits-all approach that works for us. Our growth has been driven by our ability to stay responsive to customers and adapt store by store.

That same mindset is why our partnership with Orgill has become so valuable. What began as a secondary supplier relationship evolved as we recognized the opportunity to strengthen our hardware business.

Working with Orgill, we completed a 10,000-square-foot hardware reset in one store, and the results quickly exceeded expectations. Their team supported everything from assortment planning to execution, creating a department tailored to our customers not a cookie-cutter solution.

Because of that success, we’re expanding hardware into additional locations. Our goal remains simple: stay agile, serve our customers and continue building on the foundation established more than 60 years ago

Barry Partlo President & CEO | Agri Supply | VA, NC, SC & GA

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This is what building better looks like. Contact your AMI sales representative.

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Ken’s New Jersey Garage

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The HBSDealer Stock Watch delivers up-to-the-minute monitoring of 30 publicly traded hardware and building supply companies. The industry’s digital ticker tape can be found in the daily newsletter, as well as hbsdealer.com/hbsdealer-stock-watch-0.

From the Editor

Standout selections

TKen Clark, Editor-in-Chief

wo dollars was all it took to motivate a young Paul Montalbano.

Paul is today a third-generation owner of Monnick Supply, a two-location, multi-dimensional Hardware All Star from eastern Massachusetts. (That’s Paul on our cover.)

“When I was a kid, sweeping the oors, my dad used to take change and hide it around the the store,” Paul told HBSDealer. “‘Whatever you nd, you can keep.’”

If the collection basket amounted to $1.70, back he went into the aisles, broom in hand. “I caught on eventually,” he said. “If I found two dollars, I did a good job.”

Like many of the STIHL Hardware All Stars pro led in our annual All Star Issue, Monnick Building Supply is a proud family business. The history is etched into the name — a mixture of the family name and Paul’s great uncle Nick.

What started in 1948 as a humble paint supply store has expanded in size, scope and geography to a full-blown home-improvement service center.

At Monnick Supply, “We x everything with an engine” is the pledge.

His two brothers, Mike and Gary, and sister Debbie, have all been in the business since childhood, working in the single store in Framingham, hoping some day for an expansion.

Paul remembers the day it happened.

“I was on vacation, when my dad called and said he found a spot in Marlboro,”

Paul recalls. “That was a huge, huge thing for us.”

Some stores sell convenience. That’s not the go-to-market strategy at Monnick Supply.

“You can buy products almost anywhere, but they come here for the level of service and the expertise behind the counter. We’ve always focused on that.”

Monnick Supply stands out through its dominance in key traf c-driving categories, including paint and lawn and garden, complemented by a robust outdoor power equipment and rental operation. As a STIHL MasterWrench certi ed dealer, the store attracts both contractors and serious DIY customers from across the region, reinforcing its reputation as a destination for expertise and service.

“We’re always looking for niches,” he said. “With the threat of Walmart coming into town and Home Depot and the like, you’re always looking for those things that you can try and do better, to make your business stand out.”

Monnick Supply is just one of 50 STIHL Hardware All Stars that stand out in this issue. See page 19 for more.

kclark@ensembleiq.com

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CORPORATE OFFICERS

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Jennifer Litterick

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Jane Volland

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Derek Estey

CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER Ann Jadown

EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARD

Levi Smith, CEO, Franklin Building Supply

Neal DeLowery, Store Projects and Merchandise Manager, Aubuchon Co.

Virginia Lewis, President, Tart Lumber Co. Joe Kallen, CEO, Busy Beaver Building Centers

Tom Cost, Owner, Killingworth True Value

David DeJoy, President and CEO, LBM Advantage

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BBB goes farther beyond

LUMBER LIQUIDATORS JOINS A NEW FAMILY OF BRANDS

Bed Bath & Beyond, Inc., owner of Bed Bath & Beyond, Overstock, buybuy BABY, Kirkland’s, and a blockchain asset portfolio, plans to acquire the equity interests and substantially all assets of F9 Brands, Inc.

That means Lumber Liquidators, Cabinets to Go, Gracious Home / Thos. Baker, and Southwind Building Products are coming over to the BBB family. Bed Bath & Beyond aims to build a national, fully integrated home services platform under a new “Beyond Home Services” banner. Jason Delves, who’s been President and CEO of F9 Brands since 2019, will serve as CEO of Beyond Home Services.

Bed Bath & Beyond’s Beyond Home Services division will include distinct category leaders across storage, closets, cabinets, ooring, installation, renovation, and distribution.

The expansion, according to CEO Marcus Lemonis (who also hosted “The Pro t” TV series)—is designed to “serve customers across the full lifecycle of homeownership, from design and product selection to installation and nancing.”

to its original branding. The moves came just a week after announcing a deal to acquire The Container Store, Elfa and Closet Works.

Bed Bath & Beyond says its acquisition push represents a shift from traditional retail into higher ticket, higher margin, project-based categories including kitchens, ooring, and custom storage. By combining product, installation, and nancing into a single experience, the company believes it can increase average transaction size, average transaction margin and customer lifetime value.

“With the anticipated addition of Lumber Liquidators and Cabinets To Go to Elfa and Closet Works, Beyond Home Services is established with the brands, the capabilities, and the team to serve the homeowner from concept to completion, Lemonis said. “We can take the homeowner through the full lifecycle of a renovation, all under one platform.”

In addition to the standalone Cabinets To Go and Lumber Liquidators stores, BBBY customers will have access to F9 Brands’ products and services through the Custom Spaces section of The Container Store / Bed Bath and Beyond stores.

The Lumber Liquidators deal is for roughly $150 million, including $37 million in cash and approximately 16 million shares of BBBY common stock at $7.00 per share, representing a transaction value of $107 million at the current market price.

Lumber Liquidators had been on the comeback trail after declaring bankruptcy in 2024 and swapping from LL Flooring back

The company says it plans to leverage more than 2.2 million square feet of retail space to create “full-service home project centers where customers can design, purchase, nance, and install complete home solutions.”

F9 Brands generated approximately $522 million in 2025. Through the deal, Bed Bath & Beyond is banking on higher ticket categories, improved margins and distribution leverage. It adds:

“Additional long-term upside is anticipated through sales growth driven by the activation of the existing BBBY customer base, enhanced margin performance resulting from increased purchasing power, and meaningful cost savings achieved through improved operational ef ciency.”

Lowe’s brings a new look to Port St. Lucie

Lowe’s says Port St. Lucie, Fla., will be the rst of its ve planned openings for this ( scal) year. (For those keeping score at home, Home Depot said recently it’s adding 12 stores in 2026.)

“Port St. Lucie is growing rapidly, and we’re excited to support our neighbors and local businesses with everything they need for projects big and small,” said District Manager Christian Redman. “This store is built to deliver the value, convenience and service our community expects from Lowe’s.”

The Port St. Lucie store—the retailer’s 133rd in the state of Florida—includes approximately 94,000 square feet of retail space, including a 30,000-square-foot garden center. The new location also features “redesigned kitchen and appliance showrooms,” per Lowe’s.

The company adds: “The upgraded showrooms are standard for all new Lowe’s stores and are being introduced to a limited number of existing Lowe’s stores in 2026.”

Lowe’s highlights several showroom upgrades:

 Centralized selling desks for installation and services projects, with digital signage showcasing promotional offerings.

 More attainable luxury appliances and kitchen products to support remodels.

 Larger, more interactive product displays, including vignettes for areas across the house.

 New countertop experience with larger slabs for customers to see unique veining and variation.

 Signage and QR codes to explore online offerings, as well as links to tools including a style quiz, budget calculator and 3D visualizer.

Openings, closings and acquisitions

There’s a new News Map in town. Now color-coded to easily sort openings, closings and acquisitions, the HBSDealer News Map delivers a tangible, geographic snapshot of industry insights and broader business trends.

The latest version of the map includes a new agship store for Costello’s Ace Hardware that’s opened in Cedar Knolls, New Jersey. Meanwhile, a star in Sebring, Florida, represents the opening of the 150th Rural King store.

The map includes acquisitions in Cedar Spring, Michigan, where White Creek Lumber was acquired by Forge & Build, and Aboff’s Paint acquiring six D.C.-area Vienna Paint & Decorating stores.

Among recent closings are Miller’s Hardware in Winter Park, Florida; and Blossom True Value in Mountain View, Calif.

Explore the new-and-improved interactive News Map at HBSDealer.com/map.

The new Rinnai America Commercial Manufacturing Facility and Distribution Center opened in Grif n, Georgia, marking the company’s third property in the region. The site serves as a primary manufacturing hub for Rinnai’s commercial water heating products, including Demand Duo systems and Tankless Rack Systems. Dignitaries at the ribbon cutting included Frank Windsor, president of Rinnai America, (3rd from left) and Doug Hollberg, mayor of Grif n (2nd from left).

Inside QXO’s TopBuild deal

The blockbuster industry deals keep coming.

The latest is QXO’s announced $17 billion acquisition of Daytona Beach, Fla.-based TopBuild Corp., described as the nation’s largest distributor and installer of insulation and related products.

The move, which follows on the heels of QXO’s acquisitions of Beacon Roo ng Products and Kodiak Building Partners, will boost QXO into the $18 billion neighborhood. In the words of QXO founder Brad Jacobs, the move also puts QXO “squarely on the path to building a $50 billion revenue market leader within the next decade.”

Shortly after the announcement, Jacobs shared with investors some details behind the TopBuild acquisition, which included the following points:

• Attractive aspects of the deal, according to Jacobs, include tailwinds such as housing undersupply, aging building stock and energy ef ciency requirements that bode well for spending on insulation.

• The TopBuild acquisition expands the combined company’s addressable market to over $300 billion.

• Altogether, QXO will operate with about 1,150 locations, 28,000 employees and a eet of more than 10,000 vehicles.

• A key to future growth, Jacobs said, is technology, which will be used to “unlock about $300 million of run-rate EBITDA synergies” by 2030.

Jacobs summed up his presentation this way: “TopBuild is a transformational acquisition that strengthens QXO’s scale, margin pro le, earnings accretion, and long-term growth trajectory. The combination adds structural growth, resilience through cycles, and best in class execution to the platform. We strongly believe this transaction creates signi cant durable value for our shareholders and positions us to compound value over multiple cycles.”

The deal is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026.

The presentation also included a bio of Jacobs, describing him as a founder of ve multi-billion-dollar public companies, including United Waste, United Rentals, XPO, and XPO spinoffs GXO and RXO.

The U.S. Department of Commerce has issued its preliminary determination for the seventh administrative review of Canadian softwood lumber imports. The report signals a signi cant, though partial, retreat from the elevated duty levels that have recently pressured the building supply chain.

The combined preliminary AD/CV rate is expected to drop to 24.83%, down from the 35.16% nal rate established in the sixth review. When factoring in the 10% Section 232 tariff, the total effective rate on Canadian lumber imports is projected to decline from 45.16% to 34.83%.

While a decrease of over 10 percentage points offers some relief to ProDealers and builders, the tax burden remains historically high. For much of the last decade, combined rates typically uctuated between the single digits and low teens. At nearly 35%, the effective rate continues to represent a substantial “volatility tax” on the primary raw material for American housing.

These gures are not yet nal. The Department of Commerce will now enter a 120-day window for stakeholder comments and review before publishing a nal determination.

This review coincides with the rst joint assessment of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Industry advocates, including the NLBMDA, continue to use these windows to push for a more permanent solution. The focus remains on securing a new, long-term Softwood Lumber Agreement to replace the current cycle of administrative reviews with much-needed market certainty.

‘Spirit of Life’ adds to legacy of hope

ACE HARDWARE’S JOHN SURANE EMBRACES THE INDUSTRY’S FIGHT AGAINST CANCER

High energy and heartfelt messages will be served at the City of Hope Spirit of Life Award Gala, which is breaking tradition with a new date — Sept. 8-9— and new location — Chicago. Other program innovations are on tap, such as presentations from past honorees and a big-name (to be determined) musical guest.

But unchanged — and undaunted—will be the tradition of rallying the industry in support of the world-famous, Duarte, California-based disease research and treatment facility.

Leading the charge as Spirit of Life Honoree this year is John Surane, the high-energy Ace Hardware Corp. executive vice president. And he knows full well the magnitude of the role.

“The statistics tell us that all of us are going to face cancer eventually, either directly or indirectly,” Surane said. “It affects everyone, and that’s more than a cliche. It’s real. So the work that City of Hope does to improve survival rates —what could be more important than that?”

Surane is no stranger to either the Spirit of Life Gala or the City of Hope medical facilities where the painstaking work takes place. During a recent trip to Duarte, he witnessed a memorable—and uplifting —exchange when a visitor asked a research scientist point blank, “when are we nally going to get a cure for cancer?”

“The doctor kind of took a step back and said, ‘What you need to realize is that we’re curing cancer every day,’ Survival rates— especially among children with leukemia— have increased

Wanted: More miracles

Corporate charity plays a big role in Surane’s day-to-day world, where Ace Hardware Corp., the Ace Foundation, Ace vendors and, mostly, Ace retailers raise millions for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.

Surane described the charitable effort as a kind of “glue” that bonds the Ace nation together.

“It’s special,” he said. “It’s made us all closer. It’s a common mission to help children across the country. And, and it’s been wonderful, it really has.”

dramatically. And though it may not feel like it sometimes, we are curing cancer every day.”

As Spirit of Life honoree in 2026, Surane will take the lead in the fundraising in the Hardware and Homebuilding industry, which has generated more than $220 million over the years. Being selected, and joining the ranks of past Spirit of Life honorees (a who’s who of the industry’s giants), brings “an honor and a responsibility,” Surane said.

What jumps out immediately, he added, is the cross-industry teamwork behind the effort.

“It really blows me away, because everybody is putting their swords down,” he said, “We’re erce competitors for sure as retailers — and even in the vendor community, But everybody is trying their best to host great events and support City of Hope.”

And its more than just medical research at stake.

Beyond the cutting-edge research, City of Hope is renowned for a “whole-person” approach to care. At the City of Hope Cancer Center in Zion, Illinois, Surane witnessed this rsthand in a simple, onsite hair and nail salon. This is where wigs, skincare, and personal makeovers provide a vital sense of normalcy to patients in the thick of their physical and emotional battles.

Surane recalls a conversation with a salon worker who described the transformation that happens in her chair. “It was as if she took them in one door and let them out of the other, their dignity fully restored,” Surane said.

“She shared so many stories like that. And even though you might call me a tough hardware guy—someone who talks about sledgehammers and nails—I was in tears,” he said.

“It’s that kind of impact that City of Hope is famous for, and it’s that kind of impact our industry can truly rally around.”

SAVE THE DATES

Learn more about City of Hope’s Hardware/Homebuilding Industry fundraising events at Cityofhope.org/HHI.

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The 2026 STIHL HARDWARE ALL STARS

Throughout this great nation, small businesses are still thriving. The 2026 class of STIHL Hardware All Stars serve as a shining reminder of this fact. Finding success in this era of profound retail transformation, however, requires consistent innovation, determination, foresight and genuine community engagement. The All Star program (now in its 16th year) recognizes 50 high-performing hardware stores, lumberyards or home centers doing just that.

With so many deserving candidates, it’s di cult to select honorees. But thanks to input from a variety of industry leaders, distributors and retailers, we are proud to present the class of 2026.

The criteria for selection includes the following:

 Innovation in operations, marketing or merchandising.

 High performance, exhibited through expansion or sales growth.

 Customer-centricity, community involvement and a commitment to the traditions of the hardware and building supply industry.

We hope you enjoy learning more about the 2026 STIHL Hardware All Star honorees in the following pages (and in the weeks to come at HBSDealer.com). Congratulations to all.

WINNERS LIST

Alabama: Little Hardware

Alaska: Moores’ Hardware & Building Supply

Arizona: Page Lumber

Arkansas: Ken’s Discount Building Materials

California: Standard 5 & 10

Colorado: Everitt-Moore Home Center

Connecticut: East Haven & Ridge eld Building Supply

Delaware: Pike Creek Community Hardware

Florida: RoMac Building Supply

Georgia: Stone’s Home Center

Hawaii: Kula Hardware & Nursery

Idaho: May Hardware

Illinois: Crete Ace Hardware

Indiana: Ferguson Lumber Corporation

Iowa: Singelstad Do it Best Hardware

Kansas: B & B Lumber Co.

Kentucky: Houchens Industries

Louisiana: Gabriel Building Supply

Maine: Gray Village Hardware

Maryland/D.C.: W.S. Jenks & Son

Massachusetts: Monnick Supply Co.

Michigan: LumberJack Building Centers, Inc.

Minnesota: Dakota County Lumber

Mississippi: Mathiston Hardware

Missouri: Gifford Lumber Company

Montana: Gambles A.R.

Nebraska: North Platte Hardware

Nevada: Sticks & Stones Building Materials

New Hampshire: Canaan Hardware and Supply

New Jersey: Edison Millwork & Hardware

New Mexico: Lomas True Value

New York: Water Mill Building Supply

North Carolina: Ledger Ace Hardware

North Dakota: Hazen Hardware Hank Ohio: Carter Lumber

Oklahoma: T.H. Rogers Lumber Co.

Oregon: Toledo Do it Best Hardware

Pennsylvania: Cumberland Supply Co.

Rhode Island: Durfee Hardware

South Carolina: Espy Lumber

South Dakota: Rosebud Building Products

Tennessee: Walker Lumber & Supply

Texas: Westlake Ace Hardware

Utah: Salina Home Center

Vermont: rk Miles

Virginia: Pleasants Hardware

Washington: Hoodsport Ace & Lumber

West Virginia: Baisden Bros True Value

Wisconsin: Zuern Building Products & Design Center

Wyoming: Howshar Hardware

ALABAMA

Situated in the bustling Birmingham suburb of Mountain Brook, Little Hardware rst opened in 1946.

Frank Davies Jr. purchased the store from original owner Lewis Little in 1965—the same year the “Bloody Sunday” events of the civil rights movement unfolded in Selma a couple hours down the road. Today, the store is managed by Davies’ son, Frank Wesley Davies III, who’s been working in the store since 1982.

“Helping people is very rewarding. Our customers are very appreciative of what we do here at Little Hardware,” says Davies.

ALASKA

In Alaska, a hardware store is often more than a retailer.

In a place like rugged, rural Talkeetna, Moores’ Hardware & Building Supply functions as a vital supply line and bedrock community institution. Serving the Upper Susitna Valley since 1981, Moores’ has built its business around the realities of remote living.

Talkeetna, which serves as a gateway to nearby Denali National Park, sees its population of roughly 700 swell dramatically during tourist season. That yearly tourism surge, combined with the store’s geographic isolation, calls for elite inventory planning and operational persistence—traits that have become central to the store’s identity.

ARIZONA

Those looking for an underrated spot to take in the nation’s most spectacular natural wonders could do a lot worse than Page, Arizona. Located north of Flagstaff, near the Utah border, Page Lumber has operated in this scenic community encircled by national parks for over 50 years.

What began as a small lumberyard serving mostly locals has since grown into a resource for builders, contractors and homeowners—and certainly tourists passing through.

As visitors ock to nearby showstoppers like Vermillion Cliffs, the Grand Canyon and Zion National Park, Page Lumber stays well-stocked with RV essentials, camping gear and marine goods.

ARKANSAS

Ken’s Discount Building Materials opened in an old burger stand in March 1972 with three stacks of plywood on consignment.

In 1990, Ken and his wife, Dolores, purchased their current location in El Dorado, which covers over 32,000 square feet of warehouse space and 20,000 square feet of showroom oor.

Ken and Dolores still manage the store together, along with their daughter and son-in-law.

According to Ken, his greatest company asset is the people who work for him. “One of the things I’ve been blessed with is good employees. I demand a lot and expect a lot, and my employees know it.”

CALIFORNIA

Standard 5 & 10 has been a San Francisco mainstay since 1939.

The store’s eclectic inventory remains a hit with the diverse customers it serves, but Standard 5 & 10’s community connection goes much deeper. Almost every employee is a trained rst responder to administer Narcan—a nasal spray drug that prevents thousands of overdose deaths a year.

Standard 5 & 10 Owner Michelle Leopold, who lost her own son to an

accidental overdose, continues to use her platform to spread community awareness about the dangers of Fentanyl and how to administer lifesaving aid.

COLORADO

For nearly 60 years, EverittMoore Home Center has built a reputation as a trusted retail anchor in southeast Colorado.

In addition to standard hardware fare, the store offers Whirlpool appliances and a full line of Ashley Furniture, as well as curated niche categories like GiftCraft, FoxFarm, Melissa & Doug, Real Soda, and Case pocketknives. A large cooler display featuring artisan products from Sweet Life Chocolates has become a standout attraction, too.

Meanwhile, events like the annual “trunk or treat” bring families together and reinforce the store’s role as a gathering place for the community.

CONNECTICUT

East Haven & Ridge eld Building Supply, which has served Connecticut and New York markets since 1883, continues to evolve with the times. The current iteration of the business started with US LBM’s 2009 acquisition of East Haven Builders Supply. In 2011, East Haven went on to acquire Millwork Lumber in Winchester County, N.Y.

US LBM then went on to acquire Ridge eld Supply Company in 2021, ultimately merging East Haven and Ridge eld under one banner in 2023. The company is now headquartered at an expansive 89,000-square-foot facility in Ridge eld, which includes showrooms and a lumberyard.

DELAWARE

From its original home base in Wilmington in 2008, Pike Creek Community Hardware has grown by adding locations in Smyrna and Laurel, along with one more in Pennsville, N.J.

The company describes itself as a family-owned local hardware store that offers a friendly and relaxed shopping environment, fueled by its slogan: “Let us help you do it right.”

drive-through lumberyard, while a comprehensive Yeti assortment drives traf c for its outdoor-focused customer base.

The recent addition of the Genesis Power Tool line, meanwhile, has expanded its tools category performance.

FLORIDA

RoMac Building Supply just keeps going—and growing.

The last couple years have seen big changes. Longtime CEO Dan Magruder retired in Feb. 2026, handing the reins to third generation owner Dan Robuck III. Meanwhile, recent acquisitions of Thomas Lumber and Residential Building Supply aim to expand RoMac’s reach into more sought-after Florida markets.

In business since 1945, RoMac now has 13 specialized divisions in Leesburg, Mount Dora, The Villages, Wildwood, Orlando and Ocala.

GEORGIA

For 60 years, Stone’s Home Center ’s Thomasville location has built community through strong merchandising discipline and forward-thinking leadership. Under Manager Adam Thompson, the store has evolved into a highly responsive, customer-focused operation that consistently drives growth through local market awareness.

HAWAII

Kula Hardware & Nursery stands out as one of Hawaii’s most distinctive independent retailers by combining trusted hardware service with a deeply local nursery business tailored to the unique needs of Upcountry Maui. What makes Kula especially compelling is its differentiated retail model. Beyond core hardware, the store is known for its extensive nursery offerings, including vegetable starts, fruit trees, ornamental plants, and a walking garden. That combination gives customers a highly localized product mix aligned with Maui’s climate, lifestyle, and gardening culture.

IDAHO

Quarterly department updates like refreshed assortments and optimized layouts have led to measurable gains in both margins and foot traf c. The store features a

When Roy May started his McCall general store in 1934, the closest supply source was nearly 100 miles south in Boise. Roy’s philosophy was “you can’t sell it if you don’t have it,” so he stocked his store accordingly.

May Hardware quickly became known for having everything from dynamite to shing lures (sometimes used together, apparently) on hand.

As McCall keeps growing as an increasingly popular tourist destination for outdoor enthusiasts, May Hardware’s eclectic assortments continue to delight customers eager to enjoy this picturesque corner of the Gem State.

ILLINOIS

There’s a pond located just outside Crete Ace Hardware, which typically freezes over in the thick of winter. One night at the store in Feb. 2025, Ace employees John Minerd and Adam Kroll heard the unmistakable sound of breaking ice. The two dashed out the door and saw a truck quickly sinking into the icy pond.

Without missing a beat, the heroic pair smashed the truck’s back window and dramatically pulled the unlucky driver out just in time to save his life.

Both Kroll and Minerd are described as “rockstars” by their store manager—even before and outside of their heroic, lifesaving actions.

INDIANA

The Ferguson Lumber Corporation has been a business pillar in West Central Indiana for nearly 150 years. The company has maintained its family roots over the years and is now led by fth-generation President Joseph Collings.

“The success of the company has been due to the principle that they have always taken a genuine interest in the customer. Our entire staff works to make sure each and every customer point of contact is both positive and productive. This principle will continue to be the major focus in the future,” says Collings.

IOWA

Kermit Singelstad realized his dream of owning a hardware store after buying the business from his boss (at the time). Kermit had managed that same store for 20 years. In May 2005, he and his son, Kristoffer, opened Singelstad Do it Best Hardware in Lake Mills. The property on which the store stands was once home to Richard Sears, founder of Sears and Roebuck, who had worked as a railroad depot agent in Lake Mills before opening his mail order business.

KANSAS

B & B Lumber Co. was founded in 1976 when brothers Harold and Tom Baalmann purchased Melcher Lumber in southwest Wichita. After a quick name change, product lines expanded to pole barn supplies, windows, exterior doors, treated lumber and cedar lumber. Buildings and showrooms were added at the Wichita location, and a second location was established in Newton. Kitchen cabinets, pre-hung doors, hardwood moldings, farm and ranch supplies and even storm shelters have been added over the years, but the Baalmann family tradition carries on into the second generation.

KENTUCKY

Employee-owned Houchens Industries operates in the retail, grocery and convenience store industries.

The recent acquisition of a store in Cadiz, Ky., makes 49 Ace Hardware locations under the HFG umbrella. Regarding the news, Houchens Food Group President Greg Rush said: “We are excited to welcome the Cadiz Ace Hardware store into the Houchens family. Ace Hardware stores are known for their customer-focused service and strong ties to their communities, which aligns perfectly with our company values.”

LOUISIANA

Founded in 1926 by Harry Joseph Gabriel Sr., Gabriel Building Supply initially operated as a lumber and millwork supplier in Ponchatoula. Under the watch of Harry Joseph Gabriel Jr., the company evolved into a full-service building supply operation with an additional location in nearby Amite City.

Gabriel Building Supply is now under the ownership of Bob Gabriel and his daughters, Jasmin and Devin, who represent the fourth generation of family-owned company.

MAINE

Gray Village Hardware’s expansive 12,000-square-foot store offers a treasure trove of essential supplies for locals in and around the tidy hamlet of Gray, just north of Portland.

The store features a robust—and diverse—rental department. From heavy-duty mini excavators, skid steers and boom lifts to party essentials like bounce houses, tables and chairs, Gray Village has it covered.

“We’re here to serve you with a smile and a commitment to excellence,” the company says.

MARYLAND/D.C.

Founded just a year after the Civil War ended, W.S. Jenks & Son continues to nd and ll niches unique to the D.C. area. The company caters to the prominent electronics and telecommunication industries in and around the nation’s capital. And it stocks its government service, supply and logistics department with top-notch tactical, survival,

bomb disposal and communication products.

W.S.’s fantastic roof space, meanwhile, sets the scene for a ourishing garden center—as well as yoga classes and community events.

MASSACHUSETTS

Monnick Supply Co. emerged on the scene in 1948 in Framingham, Mass., after two brothers (along with three cousins) opened a small paint supply store.

Today, the operation has grown to include two retail hardware stores, one full-service rental center and an industrial/commercial supply company, with over 50 employees on staff.

Now in its third generation of family ownership, Monnick continues to shine as a beacon of community-minded service and support.

MICHIGAN

In the summer of 1964, Gordon J. Birgbauer Jr., a man of considerable foresight and determination, purchased two lumberyards.

One was in Algonac, the other in New Baltimore. In 1965, the Algonac store was built next to the lumberyard. This would be the rst of many hardware showrooms for the company.

In 1973 Algonac Lumber, Anchor Bay Lumber and Marine City Building Supply were united under one name—and LumberJack Building Centers, Inc. was born.

Today, LumberJack operates ve locations north of lovely Lake St. Clair.

MINNESOTA

Founder Steve Finden built Dakota County Lumber on a simple principle: If he could build better loads and deliver materials with the needs of the builders in mind, the business would thrive. So far, so good.

Today, Dakota County is led by “Chief Everything Of cer” Sunny Bowman, who’s been sole owner since 2018. Bowman says her goal is to double revenue at Dakota’s Farmington location and to expand “to at least one other strategic location” in the Minneapolis metro region.

MISSOURI

In 1963, Charles Gifford was named a “Community Benefactor” in Fredericktown, Mo. On the occasion, he said, “I’m more interested in doing the job right, even if it costs a little more than in taking a short-cut.”

Several decades later, those words remain the animating force driving Gifford Lumber Company’s success. Now in its fth generation, Gifford is still going the extra mile to put smiles on customers’ faces. Quite often that means helpful service with a Tootsie Roll for the road.

MONTANA

If you want an example of community involvement, look here. Gambles A.R. owners Amy Gray and Randy Woods are city treasurer and mayor, respectively, of Hot Springs, Montana, where their store is an essential resource for the town and surrounding area.

NEVADA

For most of the 21st century, when a new lumberyard comes to town, it’s the result of an acquisition or a Green eld expansion. Here in Yerington, Nevada, a brand new independent emerged in 2014. It introduced to the region a cool name — Sticks & Stones Building Materials — and an even cooler logo (see image).

Co-owner Steve Douglas brought experience to his role as brand builder. He was the manager of Copland Lumber back in the 1980s, and he later acquired a contractor’s license and launched Top Notch Construction. Today the focus of the team at Sticks & Stones is hands-on problem solving.

MISSISSIPPI

In the heart of Mathiston, Mississippi, a century-old hardware store was on the verge of collapse. Oswalt Building Supply, formerly N.S. Ellis and Sons, founded in 1917, had fallen into disrepair.

Brad Huffman and Ted Dewett, two local friends and business partners, saw potential in the old building. Thanks to support from the State Small Business Credit Initiative program, Huffman and Dewett have overhauled and revitalized the beloved community institution. Now rebranded as Mathiston Hardware, the store’s modern makeover is breathing fresh life into this small town—all while preserving its historic charm.

In 2022, the owners transformed a once-shuttered store in a market where the nearest alternative can be an hour away. Gambles prioritizes having the right products on hand, often expanding into niche categories such as handmade goods, candles, and décor that resonate with the community and drive incremental traf c.

NEBRASKA

The hard-working communities of Lincoln County and beyond look to North Platte Hardware as a support center for projects, maintenance and seasonal products. The store blends friendly retail service with a strong rental business. And each spring, the greenhouse appears in the parking lot to launch the live goods sales season. (The structure was under construction when a reporter called to con rm the tradition.)

An active proponent of the shop local movement, North Platte Hardware also believes in investing in its appearance, embracing a Do it Best design refresh.

NEW HAMPSHIRE

A ve-generations-of-family-ownership All Star, Canaan Hardware and Supply makes the most of its 6,500 sq. ft. of selling space. And products such as locally produced maple syrup and artwork from the Cardigan Mountain Art Association connect the store to the region’s culture while attracting both residents and tourists. Deeply rooted community involvement here rises to all-star level. Proprietor Robin Parker plays an active leadership role in local events such as “Old Home Days” and “Christmas in Canaan,” in which the store plays a central role.

NEW JERSEY

You’ve heard of ower power and the Woodstock music festival. But have you heard of the “Wood” Stock Music & Flowers Festival? It’s an annual event at Edison Millwork & Hardware that takes advantage of the location’s large courtyard, colorful garden area and ample parking lot. Angelo Mancuso, second-generation owner of the 50-year-old store, plays bass during a handful of live performances at EMH each year.

And speaking of entertainment: the store itself plays a major role in the big-budget Net ix comedy “Big Mistakes.” The lming experience and the exposure it brought the store, says Mancuso were “a dream come true, except I never could have dreamt it.”

NEW MEXICO

Through the large front windows of Lomas True Value, shoppers and visitors look out onto Albuquerque’s busy Lomas Boulevard. Inside the store, the big city vibe fades into small-town friendliness, customer service and steady-as-she-goes hardware consistency.

The New Mexico All Star needs all of those qualities to compete in a crowded eld of retailers — both national and local. Fully-stocked shelves are a priority, as are keep-them-coming-back services such as screen repair, glass cutting and propane products. The store maintains a stellar reputation for expert staff and rapid service.

NEW YORK

Founded in 1986, Water Mill Building Supply has evolved from a modest Montauk Highway hardware shop into a premier resource for Eastern Long Island. Under the stewardship of Trade Supply Group since 2008, the company has undergone signi cant expansions, including a renovated showroom, an outside

sales team, and the addition of Simon’s Hardware and Bath. Today, it “super serves” builders and architects with premium materials ranging from engineered beams to luxury xtures.

By combining legacy family values with modern technology, Water Mill remains a cornerstone for the Hamptons’ construction community.

NORTH CAROLINA

The devastation of 2024’s Hurricane Helene will remain in the collective memory of the Southeast for years. So, too, will the generosity of Ledger Ace Hardware of Bakersville, N.C.

Power was out. Bank networks were down. But demand for supplies was at an all-time high. Customers light on cash in the days following the disaster were met with the most lenient terms: Take it. Pay us later. One emergency responder loaded his truck with thousands of dollars worth of equipment. No questions asked.

“You wouldn’t believe the people who’ve come back in and told us how much they appreciated us doing that,” said Sherri Gouge, Ledger’s store manager.

NORTH DAKOTA

Hazen Hardware Hank owners Dave and Diane Anderson have shrewdly jumped on opportunities. Their store in Hazen, N.D., acquired and integrated an adjoining building, increasing retail space by 30 percent. And when a nearby retailer closed, Hazen acquired the store’s inventory to add a new sporting goods category. Now, the updated layout supports expanded assortments in appliances, seasonal goods, outdoor power

equipment, and power tools—key drivers of both traf c and sales.

The Andersons are early adopters of innovation, participating in co-op pilot programs such as beta testing e-commerce platforms and new website capabilities. They’ve built a high-performing operation that balances growth, service and forward-thinking retail.

OHIO

Since receiving HBSDealer’s prestigious ProDealer of the Year award in 2007, Akronbased Carter Lumber has expanded its national presence, rising beyond 190 locations and $2.7 billion in 2025 sales.

Growth has taken the business to 15 states, with the recent acquisition of Townsend Building Supply opening up new territory in Alabama and Florida.

“Both companies share a rich history of core family values and a commitment to delivering exceptional customer service,” said Carter President Jeff Donley after the Townsend deal.

That’s not all they share. Townsend was honored as ProDealer of the Year in 2020.

OKLAHOMA

Established before Oklahoma’s statehood, T.H. Rogers Lumber Co. operates 39 retail locations across Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas and Missouri. Proudly employee-owned since 1993, the company fosters a culture of integrity and personal investment, ensuring customers work directly with folks dedicated to superior service.

T.H. Rogers leverages the signi cant buying power of a large-scale corporation to offer competitive pricing on hardware, tools and lumber while maintaining the personalized feel of a small-town yard. The company provides all-star convenience along with a commitment to community and “smalltown” values.

OREGON

Since 1991, Toledo Do it Best Hardware has served as a vital anchor on Oregon’s central coast. Strategically located on Highway 20, the store provides essential access to lumber and building supplies for homeowners and tradespeople, saving them costly trips inland. More than a convenience outlet, the business functions as a project-enabling hub, offering specialized services like pipe threading, precision cutting, and custom paint mixing.

RHODE ISLAND

Boasting a near-perfect 4.9-star reputation, the store is celebrated for a staff that prioritizes problem-solving and technical acumen. The store is an active Toledo Chamber member and stays deeply plugged into the local economy.

PENNSYLVANIA

Atop an oversized novelty Adirondack chair (the kind you see at theme parks), the staff at Newville, Pennsylvania-based Cumberland Supply Co. deliver pro and DIY tips in a video series called “The Chair.” Topics range from marking for accurate cuts to the major decisions that guide pole barn builds.

In addition to its educational and entertaining Facebook Reels, this All Star distinguishes itself through the combination of a full-service lumberyard and a specialized manufacturing facility. Meanwhile, the showroom offers a comprehensive selection of windows, doors, and hardware.

A fourth-generation family landmark, the historic Durfee Hardware has served Rhode Island customers since 1929. Walking into the store generates heavy blast-from-the-past vibes from the hardwood oors, bead-board walls and two oors of home improvement merchandising. The store has evolved into many iterations over the years, including a shift from its origins as an old-time department store (TVs and washing machines) to its current form as a service-oriented home improvement All Star.

peak ef ciency. Guided by the mantra “Be so good they cannot ignore you,” Espy remains a cornerstone of South Carolina construction.

SOUTH DAKOTA

In the small town of Mission, South Dakota, sisters Ellen and Serena Harmon are proving that grit and purpose build more than just houses. From humble beginnings selling lumber out of a trailer, the duo transformed Rosebud Building Products into a vital community resource.

As enrolled members of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, the Harmons honor their mother’s legacy by providing local access to essential materials, saving neighbors long treks to city centers.

Whether supplying tribal programs or competing with national giants on multiunit projects, these “Rising Stars” win through integrity, reinvestment, and a deep-rooted commitment to community stewardship.

SOUTH CAROLINA

As the only building supplier operating on Hilton Head Island proper, Espy Lumber maintains its Lowcountry success through a unique blend of veteran expertise and operational rigor. President Mike Reeves leads a diverse team—specializing in millwork, marine, and accounting—whose collective experience creates a powerhouse of industry knowledge.

To sharpen its competitive edge, Espy leans on a customized Six Sigma program designed to Evaluate, Learn, Control, and Execute. By identifying waste and standardizing procedures across its two locations, Espy ensures

TENNESSEE

The dramatic, impressive storefront of Walker Lumber & Supply here in the heart of Nashville re ects the luxury that this All Star dealer can bring to its high-end customers. (And you can count some music stars among that base.) It also re ects the mission statement: “To serve others with excellence.”

Founded in 1949—and acquired by US LBM in 2024—Walker Lumber & Supply offers an extensive line of specialty lumber and hardware to residential and commercial builders, contractors and DIYers across Central Tennessee from its single location.

Putting its words into action, the company embraces the Second Chance Program that partners with local ministries to support people emerging from prison and addiction recovery.

Nashville’s Walker Lumber & Supply delivers All-Star curb appeal.

TEXAS

VERMONT

Following hurricane devastation in Jamaica, Westlake Ace Hardware in Arlington, Texas, emerged as a vital lifeline for international recovery efforts. When the humanitarian organization Team Rubicon required urgent equipment for cleanup operations, Assistant Manager Jeff Trowbridge mobilized immediate support. Navigating tight deadlines, Jeff coordinated with STIHL and distributor partners to supply over $20,000 in tools and parts to relief crews. This six-week mission forti ed a lasting partnership with Team Rubicon and proved that a dedicated dealer’s impact can extend across borders.

Trowbridge’s leadership embodies the STIHL network’s core values: providing dependable, responsive service whenever and wherever it is needed most.

UTAH

From the people who brought you Loa Builders Supply (All Star class of 2016) and Escalante Home Center (All Star class of 2020), Salina Home Center in Salina, Utah, has quickly established itself as a high-performing, community-focused retail operation. The secret: combing disciplined execution with a deep understanding of rural customer needs—for both DIY projects and full home renovations. Educational workshops, youth engagement initiatives, and hands-on community involvement reinforce the store’s role as more than a retailer—it is a trusted local partner.

Question: Why the lowercase “rk” in rk Miles when three former company leaders were named Richard K. Miles?

Answer: Because it’s not about the person, it’s about the company. The r and the k remain lower case.

With nine New England locations, mostly in Vermont, rk Miles is a fourth-generation family business that appreciates its role as an employer and partner in the communities it serves. The mission is clear: to strive to be the most reliable, responsive, informed and caring supplier of building materials and related products and services.

Current president Joe Miles is a big believer in leading “basic training” for all employees, especially in the art of helpful service.

VIRGINIA

Richmond’s newest hardware store is operated by some old hands. Pleasants Hardware was founded in 1915, and acquired by the Taylor family in 2016.

“This is the fourth new store we’ve opened since 2016, and each one continues to raise the bar,” said Darrell Campbell, general manager.

Pleasants Hardware is part of the Taylor’s Do it Center family of stores, another long-standing Virginia hardware tradition.

“We’re proud of the track record of our company in opening our 22nd location in today’s competitive marketplace,” said Joe Taylor, CEO.

WASHINGTON

The Bear Gulch re of 2025 started about 15 miles northwest of Hoodsport on steep rocky slopes, eventually causing millions in damage around the area.

Hoodsport Ace & Lumber, located at the entrance to Olympic National Park, demonstrated its go-the-extra-mile community support by organizing a re ghter breakfast program. Thousands of breakfasts—at a pace of about 200 per week—in brown paper bags were handed off on the

side of the road to responders heading up the hill to contain the blaze. The ames have since been extinguished. But the store’s passion for its community continues at an All-Star level.

WEST VIRGINIA

Serving Logan and the surrounding Appalachian communities, Baisden Bros True Value operates in a market where access isn’t always easy and resources aren’t always close. In that environment, reliability matters. Locals have grown to trust that Baisden Bros will have what they need, or help them nd another way to get the job done.

That trust has been built over generations. As a family-run business, Baisden Bros has grown alongside the community it serves, adapting to changing needs while maintaining a consistent commitment to service.

WISCONSIN

Quality. Family. Independence. Those are some of the guiding ideas that drive the 10-location Zuern Building Products & Design Center forward.

“I think our culture really wins the day— and our team,” said company president Tom Zuern.

Professionalism shows up in every corner of the business. Visitors to Zuern’s yards and showrooms immediately notice the difference. The facilities, racks, trucks, and equipment are clean, well-maintained, and purposefully designed to impress.

“Expectations now are higher than ever,” said Jen Zuern, (Tom’s cousin). “I think you either adapt to it and gure out a way to rise with them, or you’re left in the dust.”

WYOMING

In eastern Wyoming, where distances are long, weather can change without warning, and getting the job done isn’t optional, Howshar Hardware serves a critical role.

In Guernsey and the surrounding ranching communities, it’s not just a place to buy supplies—it’s the place people rely on when there is no backup plan.

The store’s assortment re ects the realities of rural Wyoming. It’s practical, purposeful, and built around the kinds of projects that keep homes, equipment, and operations running.

Measure, seal, build and grill

As the dog days of summer send temperatures skyward, HBSDealer presents a range of intriguing new items to keep your sales and inventory nice and cool.

 Simpson Strong-Tie freshens up decorative hardware

Simpson Strong-Tie has expanded its Outdoor Accents

Essentials collection of decorative hardware with a range of new black powder-coated connectors and fasteners.

The connectors and fasteners allow pros and DIYers alike to build all sorts of outdoor structures, including decks, fences, patio covers and pergolas.

New products in the collection include joist hangers, stair stringer connectors, angles, post bases and caps, hurricane ties and others. They’re made of ZMAX-galvanized steel for superior corrosion resistance and are now available with a stylish black powder-coat nish.

 Rethinking the humble tape measure

Victor Technology says its new Zip Stick line is the rst snapfree, foldable spring-steel ruler, aimed at bridging the gap between bulky yardsticks, traditional tape measures and unreliable folding rulers. Zip Sticks are compact like a folding ruler, rigid like a yardstick and more controlled than a traditional tape measure.

One of Zip Stick’s key differentiators, per the company, is its ability to remain stable during one-handed measuring. Zip Stick eliminates snapback and enables more ef cient solo measuring. Meanwhile, Zip Stick’s balanced rigidity allows easy singlehanded measuring for carpenters, electricians, DIYers and hobbyists.

 Dynaflex Ultimate sealant

DAP Dyna ex Ultimate Premium All Weather Exterior Sealant is an all-weather exterior sealant for windows, doors, siding and trim. The company says its latest innovation guns and tools smoothly in temperatures from 20°F to 120°F, bonds directly to wet and damp surfaces and forms a permanently exible, 100% crackproof and waterproof seal.

Rain ready and paintable in just 30 minutes with most latex and oil-based paints, it adheres to wood, vinyl, ber cement, brick, concrete, stucco, and most common building materials.

 Traeger debuts Irontop series

Utah-based Traeger, Inc. has launched the budget-friendly Irontop Series.

As consumer demand for fast, exible outdoor cooking continues to grow, Traeger says its Irontop griddles offer rapid heat-up times, precision control and edge-to-edge heating across the entire cooktop.

Traeger’s new line is available in two sizes to accommodate every cook and crowd size, including:

 Irontop 2-Burner - Cooking Area: 504 sq in. MSRP: $499.

 Irontop 4-Burner - Cooking Area: 648 sq in. MSRP: $599.

 MAX USA streamlines SuperFramer

Amongst the most lightweight and compact coil nailers in its class, MAX USA Corp. says its SuperFramer is only 8.4 lbs. It drives 15-degree wire collated coil nails from 2” to 3-1/2”, making it ideal for framing, sheathing, decking, sub ooring, and a host of other fastening tasks.

The new-look tool features interchangeable triggers for added versatility. Use the sequential trigger for precise fastening, or switch to the contact trigger for rapid, continuous ring.

 Ramset shakes up insulation installation

Ramset has launched the Cobra+ IFS Insulation Fastening System in the U.S. Built on the Cobra+ platform, the system is designed to simplify and speed insulation installation to concrete. The Cobra+ IFS delivers consistent fastening performance and improved ergonomics for fastening rigid insulation boards.

A standard Cobra+ tool can be converted to an insulation fastening system in less than three minutes using the IFS Conversion Kit, which includes a dedicated piston, barrel and buffer. The system is compatible with common rigid and semi-rigid insulation materials, including extruded and expanded polystyrene, stone wool and polyurethane foam.

 Ridgid goes nimble for new reciprocating saw

Optimized for tight spaces and fast cutting, Ridgid says its lightweight, one-handed design reduces fatigue.

The tool delivers up to 3,100 SPM and a 3/4 in. stroke length, while its variable-speed trigger allows users to match the cutting speed to the material.

A tool-free blade change system enables quick and easy blade swaps, minimizing downtime and keeping work moving ef ciently on the jobsite.

Ridgid’s One-Handed Reciprocating Saw works with all Ridgid 18V batteries, tools and chargers.

 DeWalt goes compact, too

DeWalt has released its “most compact” 20V MAX XR Cordless 18GA Brad Nailer.

Capable of driving up to 5 nails per second and completing applications in tight spaces at 10.2 inches in height, the nailer delivers pneumatic-productivity without the hassle of hoses, cords, compressors and gas.

The 20V MAX XR Cordless 18GA Brad Nailer is available as a kit or bare tool.

Homeowners are no longer satis ed with simple outdoor platforms. They are demanding sophisticated sanctuaries that balance wellness, luxury, and climate resilience. From the surge in “Cooler Decking” technologies to the clean sightlines of minimalist black aluminum railings, the focus has shifted toward longevity and seamless aesthetics. These seven key trends — identi ed by Envision Outdoor Living Products — highlight a market moving away from “Millennial Gray” in favor of vibrant joy, labor-saving installation kits, and spaces designed to deliver year-round comfort and a signi cant sales premium.

1. Comfort Inside and Out: The lines between indoor and outdoor spaces have not only become seamless over the years, the two zones are increasingly similar in style and functionality. Homeowners want the comforts they enjoy inside—from cozy, varied seating options to TVs to a range of lighting schemes with smart controls.

2. Weather Protection: Similarly, the expectation to be able to use exterior spaces in all seasons and weather is driving demand for semi-enclosed spaces, covered areas, pergolas,

Trends for the Great Outdoors

overhangs, outdoor heaters, and automated sunshades. Meanwhile, Zillow found that an outdoor replace can add another 2.8% sale premium to a home.

3. Pops of Color: Inside the home, “Millennial Gray” is on the way out. On the exterior, however, gray-hued composite decking is trending. This provides a perfect backdrop to add color in ways that can be more easily and affordably changed as trends and preferences shift. Consumers can infuse joy through brightly colored owers, throw pillows and wall décor, among others.

4. Modern, Black Railings: Railings are trending both for their minimalist, clean look, but also to preserve sightlines to views beyond. This is a fundamental shift in how homeowners and designers think about outdoor space. Slimline railing pro les emphasize clean geometry and re ned simplicity. Alongside the contemporary look of modern railings, the growth of black exterior nishes on home exteriors — from matte black window frames to dark trim — has created a pull toward powder-coated black aluminum railings as the natural nal touch. Powder-coated aluminum delivers the sleek, modern aesthetic frequently seen on home shows. It looks premium — and it stays premium.

5. Easy-to-Install Railings: Railing systems that come with pre-assembled components and in kits are simplifying installation at a time when labor is at a premium. By keeping contractors moving and pro table, there’s little doubt that these options will continue to capture more market share.

6. Cooler Decking: In hot climates, several manufacturers offer composite decking color options that are cooler underfoot while still offering an authentic wood appearance.

7. Wellness Takes Center Stage: Outdoor spaces can play an important role as homeowners seek to enhance their health and wellbeing at home, particularly as external stressors increase. Along with creating key indoor-outdoor connections, outdoor areas offer ideal opportunities for private places of respite for meditation and yoga. Concerns about rising agriculture prices also may fuel a desire for more home-grown produce, whether full- edged gardens and greenhouses or simple planters on the deck.

One thing that hasn’t changed is that outdoor spaces are increasingly becoming a non-negotiable for many homeowners — and they want features that suit their unique needs.

NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN!

NextGen Leaders in LBM

HBSDealer is proud to present the second annual Next-Gen Leaders recognition—a project with even more potential to shape the future of the industry.

Weʼre seeking nominations of rising leaders within organizations across the hardware and building supply industry, including self-nominations. What is the criteria for rising leader? Weʼre looking for young professionals who exemplify any or all of the following:

Dedication Passion Expertise Leadership

Honorees Will Be Celebrated With:

◦ A complimentary invitation to the ProDealer Industry Summit this fall in Chicago

◦ Recognition during an exclusive celebratory breakfast alongside their peers.

◦ PLUS we will showcase these individuals across HBSDealerʼs platforms

But Beyond Recognition...

We hope this project builds community. A network of forward-looking professionals—diverse in background, role, and geography—who represent the next wave of leadership in this ever-evolving industry.

Nominate Now Deadline: June 5th

Market Insights

AI tech takes off

TWO PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TO CONSIDER

In a bid to streamline customer service, Home Depot is rolling out “AI-powered phone agents.” Built on Google Cloud’s Gemini Enterprise for Customer Experience, the agents allow customers to skip complicated phone menus and get straight to solving their home improvement problems through natural conversation.

Now, when calling a Home Depot store, customers can simply state the reason for their call in their own words. The new system, per the company, is designed to “understand what they need help with immediately.” Real-time translations also enable support for customers in their preferred language. (HD says it’s still including an option to speak with a human associate just in case.)

Home Depot says early results from a 50-store pilot show that AI voice agents understand why a customer is calling in just 10 seconds, which the company claims is “four times faster than navigating traditional phone menus.” In addition to helping customers more quickly, Home Depot says associates in the pilot also reported higher job satisfaction and more time to focus on in-store shoppers.

“Nobody likes getting trapped in a phone menu. When a customer calls us, they just want to get help as quickly as possible,” said Jordan Broggi, executive vice president of customer experience and president of online at The Home Depot. “Using customer service AI voice agents, we’re moving away from ‘please listen to these options’ and toward ‘how can I help?’ AI does a tremendous job at recognizing customer intent and taking direct action to help complete a purchase or even start a service request. And of course, if they need to speak with an associate, we’ll quickly connect them.”

The Home Depot plans to expand the AI customer service voice agent system to support all U.S. stores over the coming year.

Meanwhile, Ace Hardware’s “Hey ARMA” initiative is currently active in more than 2,300 Ace Hardware stores, with continued expansion planned.

Hey ARMA is an AI-powered assistant designed to support store staff with real-time information and guidance in stores.

Operated through a smartphone, Hey ARMA (that’s Ace Retailer Mobile Assistant) provides associates with quick

access to product knowledge, project advice, and recommendations, so they can focus on solving customer problems and delivering excellent in-store service.

Andy Enright, Senior Vice President, Retail Strategy & Operations at Ace Hardware, said the tool gives local stores access to powerful technology, while keeping the in-store experience personal. “Hey ARMA gives our associates the information they need in the moment, so they can spend less time searching for answers and more time engaging with customers in a meaningful way,” he said.

Hey ARMA supports associates with a wide range of in-store scenarios, from product comparisons and project questions to helping customers with items they may have purchased elsewhere.

“With the push of a button, our associates can quickly locate products, understand what they do, and con dently recommend the right solutions for our customers,” said Bill Wygal, owner of Bill’s Ace Hardware, a two-store chain in California.

Remodeling takes center stage

May is National Home Remodeling Month. And the National Association of Home Builders is highlighting recent data that shows remodeling is capturing an increasing share of the residential construction market, both in terms of the number of rms and employment. Additional data indicates remodeler sentiment has remained consistently positive since the rst quarter of 2020, re ecting sustained demand and industry con dence.

NAHB’s analysis of government data shows that over the past 25 years, the number of remodeling companies has nearly doubled. In 2000, there were fewer than 69,000 rms, and in the rst quarter of 2025 there were more than 128,000. Remodelers now represent over half (56%) of all residential building construction (RBC) establishments. By contrast, during the housing boom of the mid-2000s when the market was primarily dominated by home builders, remodelers’ share consistently hovered around 39%.

In addition to the growing share of remodeling rms, the analysis of employment trends in RBC also shows that remodelers are generating a rising number and share of jobs. As of 2024, the remodeling sector accounted for almost half (49%) of RBC workers. In contrast, during the housing boom of the mid-2000s, only 30% of payroll employees worked for remodelers, while single-family general contractors employed 63% of the RBC workforce.

“Remodeling companies are less affected by the rise and fall of mortgage rates compared to home building companies, so the remodeling industry has continued to grow despite a series of Federal Reserve rate hikes that have driven up the cost of buying a new home and hindered new construction,” said NAHB Remodelers Chair Elliott Pike, a remodeler from Homewood, Ala.

Another promising sign for the market is re ected in the results of the NAHB/ Westlake Royal Remodeling. Market Index. The RMI has registered a reading above the break-even point of 50 for 24 consecutive quarters, underscoring a post-pandemic resiliency. Any number over 50 indicates that more remodelers view remodeling market conditions as good than poor.

“The remodeling market has many structural tailwinds that are contributing to the overall growth of our industry,” said Pike. “With an aging housing stock, the persistent mortgage rate lock-in effect and the trend for older home owners to age-in-place, the remodeling market is positioned for continued growth.”

Arecent HBSDealer poll found that 53 percent of respondents (out of more than 120) had “no con dence” that businesses will receive tariff refunds.

Be that as it may, the federal government began accepting refund claims today for tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), following the U.S. Supreme Court’s February decision invalidating those duties.

The process, administered by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), marks the rst step in returning more than $166 billion in collected tariffs to importers who paid them. Businesses that served as the importer of record can now submit documentation through CBP’s new Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries (CAPE) system, with Phase 1 eligibility limited to unliquidated entries and those that liquidated within 80 days prior to ling, though broader eligibility is expected in subsequent phases.

While the launch provides a pathway for nancial relief, the refund process is expected to be complex and phased, with CBP estimating payments will be issued within 60 to 90 days after claims are accepted, subject to review. Early implementation challenges and the limited scope of Phase 1 mean additional rounds will be required to capture all eligible entries.

The Human Touch

BUILDING CONNECTIONS AND COMMUNITY AT CARR HARDWARE

Can a store become something more than just a place to buy stuff?

Patti Parker thinks so. A store manager with Mass.-based Carr Hardware, she tries to spark a meaningful connection with whoever comes through the door.

“You never know what someone might be going through,” she said. “They could be having a bad day or not feeling well, and that may affect how they act when they come into the store. I try to really listen to what they’re saying or asking, be as helpful as possible, and always respond with a positive, respectful attitude.”

After a couple decades of working in food service, Parker joined Carr in 2013 as an associate in the Rental department at the company’s agship location in Pitts eld, Mass. (the company has ve Mass. stores and one in Conn.)

Her knack for delivering empathetic expertise to a range of customers helped her quickly gain respect—and rise in the ranks. In 2021, Parker transferred to the company’s location in Lenox, Mass., quickly jumping from key holder to assistant manager. Now, as store manager at Lenox, she leads a team of 12 employees while overseeing daily operations, payroll, scheduling and inventory. You might’ve guessed there’s a lot more in the job description.

“I see my role not only as a leader, but also as a mentor and supporter. I believe that the engagement of our team is critical to the success of the business. I always strive to show up for my associates and be a support system for them, no matter what they may need help with.”

LEADING WITH LISTENING

A native of the popular Berkshires region of Massachusetts, Parker is a natural at connecting with locals and “second-home” out-of-towners alike in Lenox—many of whom return to Carr “year after year,” she says.

Parker’s affable approach has come in handy with dif cult attitudes throughout her career. Especially in terms of navigating leadership in a traditionally male-dominated eld. Being a women in the hardware business has its challenges, she said.

“I won’t sugarcoat it. I’ve had plenty of male customers question whether I really have the knowledge to help them, It can feel like you’re constantly having to prove that you belong and that you have the expertise to do your job well,” Parker says.

“If there’s a product or area I’m less familiar with, I make it a point to learn it thoroughly so I can better support customers in the future no matter the situation.”

OPENING UP MORE SPACE FOR WOMEN

Parker has played a key role in developing Carr Hardware’s popular “Ladies Night” event, which originally began at its Pitts eld location as a way to “bring more women from the Berkshire community into our stores,” Parker says. The RSVPonly event, which features giveaways, interactive demos, food and drink and much more, initially got off to a slow start. Then it was paused due to COVID.

But after the Lenox store opened and COVID restrictions eased, Parker started to notice more female customers coming in. The timing seemed right to relaunch the female-focused initiative. Judging by the buzz and strong community response since then, it appears she was right.

Now, Parker says the Lenox store’s Ladies Night has become a cornerstone of an even larger effort.

“Ultimately, it’s about creating an environment where women feel comfortable exploring what they are interested in, building their knowledge, and growing into leadership roles,” she said. “When that support is in place, it bene ts not just women, but the entire business.”

Red tape in the crosshairs

The U.S. House Financial Services

Committee recently convened to consider H.R. 425, the Repealing Big Brother Overreach Act. The legislation would codify an NLBMDA-supported regulatory change to the scope of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA). As initially adopted, the CTA required more than 32 million small businesses to report bene cial ownership information to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), creating new federal compliance obligations for LBM dealers.

Last year, FinCEN issued an interim nal rule that substantially narrowed the scope of bene cial ownership information (BOI) reporting requirements by removing U.S. companies and U.S. persons from the de nition of “reporting companies.” As a result, BOI reporting obligations are now largely limited to entities formed under foreign law and registered to do business in the United States, aligning the framework more closely with its intended focus on higher-risk entities.

REMOVING ‘ONEROUS’ BARRIERS

With more than 190 cosponsors, H.R. 425 would permanently codify the recent regulatory re nements to CTA, providing long-term certainty and removing the risk of future regulatory reversals. In addition, H.R. 425 adopts a common-sense data

governance provision by requiring the deletion of previously collected bene cial ownership information for entities and individuals that no longer fall within the statute’s scope.

At this week’s hearing, Rep. Warren Davidson (R-OH), lead sponsor of the legislation, publicly recognized NLBMDA’s support for the bill and submitted NLBMDA’s letter into the congressional record. In addition, House Financial Services Committee Chairman Rep. French Hill (R-AR) underscored the bill’s impact on small businesses, noting in his remarks:

“…the impact on the small business community: 33 million businesses have to comply with the rule as designed…we’re asking Joe’s HVAC company to go through the process of complying with a form with a government entity he’s never heard of, lling out another form that could be a database that could be leaked. As passed by Congress, this act imposed an onerous, confusing, duplicative ling requirement on small businesses.”

Merchants irked by Visa profits

Recent nancial results reported by Visa show the credit card network is seeing a huge increase in pro ts boosted by record “swipe fees” on gasoline and diesel prices, according to the Merchants Payments Coalition.

Visa reported Tuesday that net pro ts for the quarter ending March 31 were up 32% year-over-year.

The MPC commented:

“In mid April, it was megabanks reporting a spike in pro ts as they collect a windfall from swipe fees on fuel prices, and now we’re seeing the same with the nation’s largest credit card network,” MPC Executive Committee member and National Association of

Convenience Stores General Counsel Doug Kantor said. “Americans are struggling to ll their tanks, but banks and card networks are easily lling their coffers as swipe fees rise with each increase in the price of gas and diesel.”

Even before fuel prices began to rise, credit card and debit card swipe fees had jumped 80% since the pandemic and hit a record $198.25 billion in 2025.

The earnings reports come as Congress considers the Credit Card Competition Act, which President Donald Trump endorsed earlier this year to “stop the out of control swipe fee ripoff.”

Manufacturers & Services Directory

www.dupont.com

www.fctg.com

The power of familiarity

IN A CONSOLIDATING WORLD, A BIT OF COMFORT CAN GO A LONG WAY.

By Abhi Singh

Familiarity is a powerful thing. It pulls you back to a moment in time without asking permission. A McDonald’s hamburger, the smell of salty air at the beach, walking into your home after being gone for a few days. When it hits … it hits. For me, it was opening a bag of Doritos. Instantly, I was a tween back in the late 1980s in Youngstown, Ohio — sitting next to my dad, watching the Browns play. Our gameday routine was simple: a bag of Doritos and a bowl of fresh jalapeño peppers. That feeling came back immediately. Comfort. Nostalgia. Happiness. All from a bag of chips.

That’s what familiarity does.

And it’s exactly what your customers are looking for when they call you. In construction supply distribution, we like to think customers call us for price, product, or availability. They often call because it feels familiar. There’s comfort in hearing a known voice on the other end of the phone — someone who understands their job, knows how they work, and gets it right without a long explanation. No surprises. No babysitting. No cleanup required.

That familiarity gives them something most people overlook: mental space. They can move on to the next problem because they trust you already handled this one. And they’ll pay a little more for that familiarity and peace of mind.

In our world, that trust is everything.

If a sports team and a snack product can build familiarity, think what a high-performing building products distributor can do.

empowered to make a decision, or they’re simply not bought in. What used to be second nature now requires thought, and what used to be easy suddenly isn’t.

And that’s what kills familiarity.

That creates friction. Customers may not say it out loud, but they feel it. And when something feels unfamiliar in our business, it feels risky. So they slow down, double-check, and follow up. Every one of those moments chips away at trust. And time.

So here’s the question: is your business still familiar?

Do your customers know exactly what they’re going to get every single time they deal with you?

But familiarity isn’t just a person. It’s a brand. A logo on a building, a name on a shirt, an invoice that looks the way it always has, a truck pulling onto a jobsite. All of it sends the same signal: we’ve got you. No missing items. No bad pricing. No games. Just simple, consistent execution.

But here’s the problem.

With consolidation happening across every part of our industry, familiarity is fading. Companies get acquired. Names change. Systems change. And while the people may still be the same, their attitude often shifts. They can’t do what they used to be able to do … either because they don’t know how, they’re not

Do your customers know exactly what they’re going to get every single time they deal with you?

Do they trust the outcome before the order is even placed? Or do they have to think a little harder than they used to? Because the moment your customer has to second-guess, double-check, or follow up, you’re no longer easy to do business with. And in this business, if you’re not easy … you’ve lost your edge.

If your business still feels familiar from a customer perspective, protect it at all costs.

If it doesn’t … take a step back and look at your business through your customer’s eyes. Talk to them. Understand them. Find out what changed, why it changed … then x it.

And if you’re not sure where to start, grab a bag of Doritos and go from there.

Just don’t fumble against Denver.

Helping Hands

Helping to rebuild in Altadena

Since scorching Southern California in early 2025, the Eaton re has fallen out of headlines. But it hasn’t been forgotten.

James Hardie Building Products Inc. recently announced a partnership with San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity to support rebuilding efforts for 25 households affected by last year’s devastating res in Altadena, California.

On March 27, 2026, SGV Habitat and James Hardie celebrated the completion of the rst 25 home renovations. The home designs are based on a pre-approved Foothill Catalog design, developed speci cally for post-wild re rebuilding to support faster construction and improved resilience.

To support the rebuilding of these homes as part of a multiyear effort, James Hardie has committed to donate products including non-combustible Hardie ber cement siding and re resistant TimberTech decking, AZEK trim and fascia products.

“A home is more than a structure,” said Amanda Cimaglia, Vice President of Global Sustainability at James Hardie. “It’s a place of refuge, stability and belonging. As extreme weather events become more frequent, a home’s exterior is its rst line of defense – and resilient building materials play an increasingly important role in helping communities rebuild stronger to be better prepared for the future.”

In January 2025, SGV Habitat committed to supporting longterm recovery efforts, bringing together volunteers, donors and partners in the community.

“We’ve said from the start that this is not just about rebuilding homes. It’s about restoring hope, stability and a future,” said Bryan Wong, Chief Executive Of cer of SGV Habitat.

“We strive to support the communities where we operate, particularly when people and families are impacted by natural disasters. Our priority is to show up with our products, time and nancial resources to rebuild in partnership with local organizations,” said Molly Ernst-Alper, Global Director of Social Impact at James Hardie. “We believe in the power of community and are proud of our long-time partnership with Habitat for Humanity sharing the collective vision to ensure people and families have a decent and resilient place to live.”

See more stories of community service in the Helping Hands section of HBSDealer.com

Lowe’s aims to bolster the trades

As the U.S. confronts an acute shortage of skilled trades workers, the Lowe’s Foundation announced an expanded $250 million commitment to help train and develop 250,000 tradespeople by 2035 through its Gable Grants program.

The announcement comes as Associated Builders and Contractors estimates that 349,000 more construction workers are needed to meet demand this year alone.

The foundation’s new goal follows its 2023 announcement of a $50 million, ve-year commitment to help train 50,000 tradespeople with the support of Lowe’s

vendor partners. With nearly $53 million invested in 65 organizations since then, the foundation is on track to help prepare 50,000 tradespeople by 2027, a full year ahead of its original goal.

“Three years ago, we set out to lead an ambitious workforce movement in a pivotal moment – and it’s taken off faster than we imagined,” said Marvin Ellison, Lowe’s chairman and CEO and co-champion of the Business Roundtable “Skilled Trades for America” initiative. “American prosperity is at stake, and we are partnering to solve the workforce gap with a growing force of educators, employers and

policymakers who understand local needs. No single organization can do this alone.”

As part of the project, the foundation is growing its partnership with the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) to enhance its CareerStarter platform, a free service that connects students and job seekers directly with educators, employers and career opportunities.

Lowe’s is also expanding partnerships with nonpro ts and community colleges to increase program capacity, reduce training barriers and recruit new tradespeople.

People in the News

US LBM has named Nick Cox as the recipient of the 2026 Humanitarian Award, recognizing “exceptional dedication to improving the lives of youth in his community.” As part of the recognition, the US LBM Foundation will donate $10,000 to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Wake and Johnston County.

Nick Cox, Raleigh-Durham Central Region Manager at Professional Builders Supply, a division of US LBM, was

selected for his decades-long leadership in youth mentorship at The Boys & Girls Clubs of Wake and Johnston County in North Carolina. The organization operates 11 clubs serving more than 1,000 youth each day offering programming focused on academics, healthy lifestyles, mental health, good citizenship and workforce readiness.

“I am honored to accept this award and support The Boys & Girls Clubs of Wake and Johnston County,” said Cox. “This recognition re ects the work of so many people committed to making a difference. The Clubs provide a safe environment and high-quality programming that helps young people build strong futures.”

US LBM says Cox has helped expand access to programs and opportunities

Builders FirstSource appointed Alena Brenner as Executive Vice President, Chief Legal Of cer and Corporate Secretary, reporting to CEO Peter Jackson. Brenner will lead all legal, risk management, government affairs, compliance, corporate social responsibility, and insurance functions for the company. She will also serve as the primary legal advisor to the Builders FirstSource Board of Directors. Brenner has nearly 25 years of legal experience in industries including manufacturing, CPG and eet management. She joins the company from Cornerstone Building Brands.

Owens Corning promoted Todd Fister to the post of Executive Vice President and Chief Financial and Operating Of cer. Fister will assume responsibility for executing key enterprise initiatives that drive growth and performance. Fister has served as Owens Corning’s Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Of cer since 2023.

Jill Ehnes is assuming an expanded leadership role with her appointment as President of Delta Faucet Company and North America Plumbing; she will continue to be a member of Masco’s Executive Committee. She previously served as President of Delta Faucet Company.

for thousands of young people. He has served on the Board of Directors since 2016 in nearly every leadership role including chairing the organization’s largest fundraiser. Nick also extends his service across the broader community through leadership roles with Professional Builders Supply, supporting the Gary Sinise Foundation’s R.I.S.E. program, and fundraising for Friends of Scouting, helping to raise more than $2 million.

“Nick is a humble leader who consistently puts community before himself and sets a powerful example of humanitarian leadership. We are proud to recognize the impact he is making on at-risk youth,” said US LBM President and CEO L.T. Gibson. “His work re ects the mission of the US LBM Foundation to create meaningful, positive change in our communities.”

Georgia-Paci c appointed Nick Trainer to vice president, market sales of GP PRO. In this role, Trainer will be tasked with leading the company’s market sales strategy and execution and driving growth across the business. Prior to rejoining GP PRO, Trainer served as senior vice president of sales and marketing at Handgards, a manufacturer and supplier of foodservice disposable products.

LMC added David Lezzer, President of Lezzer Lumber and Managing Partner of Lezzer Property Ventures, to its Board of Directors. Lezzer will succeed Harley E. Yoder of Yoder’s Building Supply, who nished his Board term. Lezzer’s father, Maurice, his uncle Ken, and brother Mike all previously served on the LMC Board. He is also a past member of the LMC Building Materials Committee.

Andersen Corporation appointed Shawn Brown as president of Bright Wood Company LLC. Andersen announced its plans to acquire Bright Wood in December 2025, initiating a leadership transition from the family-owned and operated company to an independently operated business owned by Andersen and managed by an independent local leadership team.

Nation’s Best promoted Kim Pef ey to Chief Operating Of cer. Pef ey previously served as Regional Vice President of the company’s North Region. She brings more than 30 years of experience in the independent home improvement industry. Prior to joining Nation’s Best, Pef ey held leadership roles across multi-store retail operations and served as a consultant with the North American Hardware and Paint Association.

Westlake Corporation has appointed Jonathan H. Baksht as senior vice president and chief nancial of cer, Baksht succeeds Steven Bender, who will retire by the end of the year. Baksht most recently served as executive vice president and chief nancial of cer of Fortune Brands Innovations

Indiana-based building supply company Big C Lumber has named Courtney Kaptur as general manager of its location in Three Oaks, Mich. She began her career as a kitchen and bath designer and also served as assistant manager at the the Three Oaks location.

USG Corporation has hired Jimmy Mason to lead its Gypsum division, effective June 1. Mason brings more than 25 years of experience in the building products industry. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President of the New Construction business segment at American Woodmark, where he also led corporate Marketing and Product Management.

Matt Daughrity was named manager of McCoy’s Building Supply ’s new location in New Caney, Texas. Daughrity joined McCoy’s in 2018. Most recently, he was store manager of McCoy’s location in Belton, Texas. “We’re here to support homeowners, contractors, and businesses with knowledgeable people, dependable products, and the kind of service that makes a difference in our community,” said Daughrity.

Great Southern Wood Preserving, Inc., the Alabama-based maker of YellaWood pressure-treated pine, has named Ian Crabtree as its new Chief Financial Of cer and elevated longtime company leader Justin Wright to Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Of cer. Crabtree most recently served as CFO of Foley Products Company based in Newnan, Ga. Wright joined Great Southern in 2003, serving in a variety of sales and operations roles before ultimately becoming Senior Vice President and Chief Sales Of cer in 2015.

Spahn & Rose has tapped Matthew Parrish to become the ninth CEO/president of the Iowa-based prodealer’s 122-year history. He will replace the retiring Dave Davis. Parrish joins Spahn & Rose from Knauf Insulation North America, where he served as CEO for nearly a decade. Previous to Knauf, Parrish worked with Owens Corning in its mineral wool division

Whether you need to deliver a skid of blocks to a jobsite or move a 16,000 lb. load of steel, Sellick has the forklift that is right for you. We have been engineering and manufacturing rough terrain forklifts for over 50 years and our nationwide dealer network offers superior support for all your parts and service requirements. Call toll-free or e-mail us today for all your material handling needs.

SOURCE:

Consumer Watch