The Hardware Journal March/April 2026

Message from the CEO

Message from the CEO

As we go to press the impact of the conflict in the Middle East is still unfolding. So much is related to oil and gas and to be so reliant on energy from such a volatile part of the world is questionable. Much hinges on how long the conflict will last and no one has the answer to that at this point. Likely impacts are price increases and surcharges and perhaps restricted supply. The sector is highly resilient and we have weathered the Covid outbreak and the Ukraine invasion. As this situation is changing almost by the day, there is only so much to say as by the time we are published it will be old news.

The latest market figures show that the market grew by 5% in value terms in 2025 v 2024, see The Business Index on page 8

The year got off to a great start for the sector with the most successful Hardware Show on record. Over 180 exhibitors met with 2,000+ visitors over the two days and plenty of business was done, new contacts made and older contacts renewed. Thanks to all the sponsors and to all who exhibited and attended. For full details please see from page 39. As always The Innovation Awards were very popular, showcasing much of the new thinking and products in the sector.

The new Government grants to convert Above the Shop premises back to residential use have gone live from April. When it is fully up and running it has the potential to add thousands of homes. Good for those seeking a home, and good for the sector in both the sales of goods and the creation of new households with spending power. Over the next few months HAI are planning to host some regional roadshows to highlight the benefits, grants and incentives on offer.

Another part of the market that will provide housing is one off rural family homes. HAI is just finalising a survey on this vital part of the market. We received 239 survey responses - and thank you to all who took the time. We will send the final report to all members and feature the highlights in the next edition of The Hardware Journal. Spoiler alert - there is one major recommendation - the local housing need regulation needs to be reformed to allow people to build. Over 90% of respondents to the survey said that there was a major discrepancy between demand in their area and supply. Last year less than 6,000 one off rural family homes were built - the potential may be double that. HAI is lobbying the Government to change this regulation.

This edition features many thought-leading articles including; Above the Shop Units - A Fire Officer's Perspective (pages 30 & 31), The Silent Margin Leak (pages 32 & 33), Innovative Store Design (pages 34 & 35), Loyalty Programmes for the win (pages 54 & 55), How to embrace technology in DIY? (pages 56 & 57), The DIY & Garden Store of the Future (pages 58 & 59) and Inside the Retail Engine (pages 60 & 61).

For training, we are recommending The Sales Apprenticeship Programme on page 11. This is an accredited and funded twoyear programme. It comes highly recommended by hardware stores and builders merchants who have completed the programme and other trade organisations.

Martin Markey Chief Executive Officer - HAI

129 Lower Baggot Street, D2 D02 HC84

t +353 1 298 0969 e info@hardwareassociation.ie w www.hardwareassociation.ie @hardwareassoc

Published by: Hardware Association Ireland

Editor: Jim Copeland, editor@hardwareassociation.ie

Editorial/Feature Contributor: Aoife Kinsella O’Reilly, Aoife@hardwareassociation.ie

Advertising Manager: Jim Copeland, jim@hardwareassociation.ie

Design and Production: Marty Maguire, minus 6, minus_6@icloud.com

Printers: GPS Colour Graphics Ltd, Belfast.

Distribution: MMS Mailing Services, Dublin.

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES:

To advertise in The Hardware Journal and reach the key decision makers in the industry please contact Jim Copeland at 01-298 0969; email jim@hardwareassociation.ie

30 ABOVE THE SHOP FEATURE: The Hardware Journal asked Martin Moore, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Tipperary Fire and Rescue Service to give us his professional perspective on the reuse of vacant ‘above the shop’ units.

32 INSIDE INDUSTRY VIEW: Retail & merchanting consultant Dave Gavin shares how misunderstood ERP processes quietly distort stock, pricing and margin in merchanting and retail operations.

51 profiles features

34 INNOVATIVE STORE DESIGN: Peter Rigney, Founder and Creative Director of Rigney Forge, poses the question: What if your store environment could work harder for your bottom line?

39 COVER STORY: Looking back at The Hardware Show 2026, including highlights from the two days, The President’s Ball, and celebrating the winners of The Innovation Awards.

54 LOCAL RETAILING IN THE USA: Gina Schaefer shares the final installment of her Big 5 series, profiling the five metrics her team uses to track the health of their hardware chain. In this feature it’s all about their Scan Rate.

56 A VIEW FROM EUROPE: Thierry Coeman attends DIY-ProGarden, Belgium’s leading DIY trade fair, whose key theme highlights the need to embrace technology to reinforce, not replace, the human factor.

58 STEVE COLLINGE: UK Home Improvement expert Steve Collinge explores the DIY & Garden Store of the future, and considers what changes are ahead.

60 INSIDE THE RETAIL ENGINE: The Hardware Journal’s newest contributor - Fiorella Origlia, author of The Retail Revolution, shares how she grew her career as a Hardware Buyer, and the lessons she learned along the way.

business support

62 LEANBPI Consultant John O’Shanahan shares how Lean remains as relevant to small businesses today as it ever was, having seen its applications grow and change over the years.

63 FEXCO INTERNATIONAL PAYMENTS Ian Craddock shares how Fexco International Payments can help businesses save money on currency exchange and international payments.

64 GLORY IRELAND Sales Manager Donal Clavin shares how GLORY are transforming payment processes across Ireland’s hardware sector.

65 TACTICAL TALENT Iseult McLaughlin reflects on her visit to The Hardware Show 2026, sharing the key challenges and trends revealed to her from the industry representatives she spoke to.

51 STORE PROFILE: TOPLINE HEAVINS & EURONICS

Topline Heavins & Euronics is a proudly family-run Irish business with over 40 years of trading history, serving local communities across the midlands and nationally. The Hardware Journal catches up with the Heavin family about their rich history, remarkable growth, and their outlooks for the future.

training & education

11

SALES APPRENTICESHIP: Empowering businesses through the Sales Apprenticeship Programme: a pathway to success.

66

ADHESIVES & SEALANTS

A refreshing look at the game-changing trends and updates in the sector, including new hybrid solutions that are taking over building sites and homes across Ireland and the UK, and airtightness solutions to support long-term sustainability and energy savings for your customers.

72 PLUMBING & HEATING

High-performance, multi-purpose piping systems, with a focus on reducing the embodied carbon of buildings, new and flexible solutions for bathroom projects, and a high-performance heating solution for the Irish climate.

80

ECOLOGICAL & SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTS

How some of the top brands in the sector are fulfilling their pledge to reduce the environmental impact of their products, including innovative reuse of recycled materials, removing plastic from packaging, and new collections that help customers embrace a healthier lifestyle.

DULUX LIFE IS WHAT YOU PAINT IT CAMPAIGN: DRIVING DEMAND INSTORE THIS SEASON

Dulux returns to screens from March 30th with a fresh Masterbrand campaign designed to inspire a new generation of decorators. Running across TV, broadcaster video on demand, YouTube and social channels, the campaign heroes the much loved Dulux Dog, whose playful character helps highlight the transformative power of colour in the home. This high reach activity is expected to drive strong consumer interest and increase footfall as shoppers look for trusted paint solutions that bring personality to their space.

Alongside the campaign, Dulux are introducing three new interior shades - White Mist, Just Walnut and Pocket Stone. This curated range of warm, modern neutrals offers customers simple, stylish choices suitable for any room. Available in both matt and soft sheen finishes, these colours are designed to help retailers meet the growing demand for calming, versatile palettes that support everyday living.

In addition, Dulux Heritage continues as proud sponsor of The Great House Revival on RTÉ One. Featuring homeowners breathing new life into forgotten buildings, the series champions craft, design and restoration - aligning perfectly with the Dulux Heritage palette of 112 timeless colours.

This partnership is a powerful driver of brand credibility and inspiration, encouraging shoppers to choose premium finishes for their home. For more information contact your local sales representative

ERP PROVIDER INTACT REBRANDS AS GENETIQ

ERP provider Intact has announced it is rebranding to GenetiQ (pronounced gen-et-ic), marking a defining milestone in the company’s evolution as a modern, cloud-first ERP platform for merchants, wholesalers and distributors.

Founded in Ireland, the business has grown from its origins as a finance-led system into a full end-to-end ERP platform supporting inventory-driven businesses across Ireland, the UK, the USA and Australia/New Zealand.

The name GenetiQ reflects both the industry DNA built into the platform through decades of working alongside customers, and the intelligent, adaptive technology that powers it.

The rebrand follows the 2024 launch of the company’s cloud-native platform, GenetiQ Cloud, and a multi-million euro investment in modernising its technology stack, including scalable cloud infrastructure, automation and practical applications of AI.

Justin Lawless, Chief Executive Officer, said: “GenetiQ marks the next stage in our journey as a company. The platform we’ve built over the past few years reflects the direction we set for the business, and the new name simply brings that into focus.

Our software now supports far more of our customers’ day-to-day operations than when we first began, and the genetics of the businesses we serve remain built into everything we do. While the name and look are evolving, our independence and long-term commitment to customers remain unchanged.”

The Intact name originated from ‘Integrated Accounts’, reflecting the platform’s early focus on finance. Today, GenetiQ delivers financial, operational and commercial capability in a unified system designed for scale and continued growth.

The company remains proudly independent and family-run, guided by the same ownership and leadership team and backed by Goodbody Capital. As part of its growth strategy, GenetiQ plans to recruit 140 additional team members over the next two years to support continued product development and expansion.

For customers and partners, the transition represents continuity. The same teams, products and customer focus remain in place, with product branding aligning under the GenetiQ name in upcoming updates.

But the bigger story is about where business software is heading next. It’s no longer just about recording transactions or storing information. Increasingly, it’s about helping teams work faster, make better decisions and respond more effectively while the trading day is still moving.

AI that helps

AI is everywhere right now, and most of it is noise. But used properly, it is starting to do genuinely useful things inside business software.

Think about your team’s daily workload. A customer emails about the next part of an order. Someone has to find the account, understand the context and work out what’s needed. AI can do that automatically - preparing a draft response or order for your team to confirm.

On the purchasing side, it analyses sales patterns, supplier lead times and seasonal demand to give buyers better, timelier suggestions than any manual process could. It can also highlight unusual sales patterns, margin changes or stock issues earlier, helping your team spot problems sooner rather than later.

It’s not replacing anyone. It’s handling the time-consuming parts so your team can focus on the work that matters.

Used properly, AI becomes another pair of hands in the systemhelping your team get through the day faster.

A more practical future for builders’ merchant software

Alongside developments like AI, more companies are choosing cloud systems that run through the browser, offering faster, more user-friendly software that makes it easier to get new staff up and running.

For merchants managing thousands of products, multiple branches and tight margins, those kinds of improvements can make a real difference day to day. Just as importantly, businesses are starting to think more carefully about the platform underneath - whether it is flexible enough to evolve, connect easily with other systems and support new technology as it matures.

And that’s ultimately what the move to GenetiQ Cloud reflects - modern business software that’s faster, easier to use and increasingly able to assist the people running the business. What matters now is having a platform that can grow and evolve with the way business software is changing.

More information is available at www.genetiqsoftware.com.

BUSINESS INDEX Q4 2025 RESULTS

Business Index Qtr 4 2025 - Year-on-Year Comparisons

The year-on-year increase was most pronounced in the Connacht/Ulster region and among rural branches, which saw impressive gains. In contrast, Dublin-based branches experienced a slight decline, highlighting variation in regional market performance for the quarter.

Monthly Business Index 2025 - Year-on-Year Comparisons*

A steady and positive year-on-year trajectory was maintained for nearly every month of 2025, resulting in a strong overall annual growth of 5%. The year finished on a particularly high note with a 9% increase in December compared to 2024.

The Business Index is collecting and analysing data at category level. If members would like to contribute and benefit

please contact Martin

CHADWICKS GROUP CELEBRATES COLLEAGUE ACHIEVEMENTS AT FOURTH ANNUAL AWARDS

Chadwicks Group has recently announced the twelve category winners of its fourth annual Chadwicks Appreciation and Recognition Awards (CARAs).

The CARAs ceremony brought together 395 colleagues and suppliers from across the Chadwicks Group to celebrate outstanding team members and their positive impact across the business and local communities.

Chadwicks Roscommon was presented with the prestigious Chadwicks Branch of the Year award. The Roscommon team was recognised for their exceptional achievements across every pillar of performance. Colleagues called out their people-focused approach, which shines through their impressive scores in engagement and leadership. Their dedication to excellence set the benchmark for the entire Chadwicks Group network.

Individual honours were also awarded, with Sean O’Sullivan from Chadwicks Clonmel receiving the Branch Manager of the Year award. Colleagues praised Sean for his inspiring leadership, approachability and proactive support. His contributions have played a key role in fostering a positive culture, creating an overall positive impact on the branch and the wider business.

Another individual award for Branch Colleague of the Year award was presented to Kristin Dunne from Chadwicks Waterford, who was celebrated by colleagues for always going above and beyond. Kristin always looks for new ways to brighten the branch and take on extra responsibilities, a true team player valued by all.

Davies Raheny was named Destination Brand of the Year, with the team commended for their exceptional results in a highly competitive environment. Their team’s expertise, dynamic product range and ability to consistently innovate and bring new products to the market, make them a market leader in their sector and set a new standard within Chadwicks Group.

Meanwhile, the ESG Award went to a team whose community spirit truly set them apart. Chadwicks Mallow arranged a remarkable charity walk in honour of a colleague, raising an impressive €18,000 towards defibrillators and Cork University Hospital’s children’s ward.

Speaking on the award ceremony, Patrick Atkinson, Chief Executive Officer of Chadwicks Group, said: “The Chadwicks Appreciation and Recognition Awards are an important opportunity to acknowledge the people who drive our business forward. It is a pleasure to call out and recognise our valued colleagues for their consistent dedication, teamwork, and professionalism across our branches and departments. This year’s award recipients reflect the high standards we set across the Group and the collective commitment that underpins our continued success. I would like to congratulate all of our well-deserved winners on this achievement.”

Chadwicks Branch of the Year - Chadwicks Roscommon

Destination/Specialist Product Brand of the Year - Davies Raheny

Health and Safety Award - Chadwicks Ennis

Leadership Team Award - Liam McEvoy / Telfords

Branch Manager of the Year - Sean O’Sullivan / Chadwicks Clonmel

Branch Colleague of the Year - Kristin Dunne / Chadwicks Waterford

Yard Colleague of the Year - Patrick Knott / HSS Greenogue

ESG Award - Chadwicks Mallow

Customer Service Champion - Aaron Doyle / Chadwicks Naas

Salesperson of the Year - Damian Barnwall / Chadwicks Navan

Support Office Team of the Year - Learning & Development team, Chadwicks Group

Support Office Colleague of the Year - Pat Hughes / Category team

MEET THE JUDGES: FOUR LENSES ON EXCELLENCE

What does excellence in merchanting look like in 2026?

According to this year’s Octabuild Builders Merchant Excellence Awards judging panel, the answer depends on where you stand - internationally, commercially, environmentally and digitally.

Each judge brings a distinct lens to the process, shaped by decades of experience across the building materials, sustainability and digital sectors.

Steve Collinge International Excellence

As Managing Director of the UK-based Insight Group, Steve Collinge works with leading merchants and retailers across global markets. His perspective is shaped by constant exposure to international best practice - what high-performing operators are doing, how they are differentiating and where the sector is heading.

He approaches the Awards with curiosity about what drives Irish merchants forward. What gives them competitive edge. How are they learning from global trends while retaining local strength. For Steve, excellence is not insular - it stands up to comparison.

Phil Derby Driving Growth

Strategic advisor Phil Derby brings a deep understanding of the building materials sector and the factors that underpin long-term success for builders’ merchants.

Working closely with merchants across the industry throughout his career, he has seen how businesses grow and adapt in response to changing market conditions. His focus as a judge is on leadership, strategic clarity and the ability to innovate while maintaining strong operational foundations.

As Phil explains: ‘Having spent over 30 years in the building materials industry, working closely with builders’ merchants across the sector, I’ve seen what truly drives sustainable growth. In a competitive and fast-moving market, the businesses that stand out are those that combine commercial focus with a forward-looking mindset.’

Brian McIntyre Sustainable Impact

Representing the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, Brian McIntyre brings deep expertise in sustainable construction, regulatory frameworks and energy innovation.

For him, sustainability is no longer a peripheral initiative; it is central to long-term viability. He will be looking for merchants that are actively reducing environmental impact, enabling greener building choices and influencing positive change throughout their supply chains. Practical action and measurable progress matter more than aspiration alone.

Lorraine Higgins Digital Best Practice

As founder of Digital Business Ireland, Lorraine Higgins has long championed digital and e-Commerce enterprises. She understands how rapidly technology is reshaping customer expectations and operational efficiency.

Her interest lies in meaningful digital transformation - not technology for its own sake, but systems that enhance service, improve logistics and strengthen customer engagement. In today’s market, digital competence is increasingly a competitive necessity.

Together, the four judges reflect the realities shaping modern merchanting: global standards, sustainable growth, environmental responsibility and digital evolution. Their combined perspectives ensure that excellence is assessed from every angle - commercial, operational and future-focused.

National Sales Apprenticeship

The Sales Apprenticeship programme combines on-the-job, classroom, online and self-study. The apprentice continues to work full-time in your business and attends classes (2hrs online per week + 2 classroom days every 6-8 weeks) Classes are held in 7 locations nationwide (Cork, Dublin, Kerry, Leitrim, Louth, Mayo, Tipperary).

The Sales Apprenticeship programme combines on-the-job, classroom, online and self-study. The apprentice continues to work full-time in your business and attends classes (2hrs online per week + 2 classroom days every 6-8 weeks). Classes are held in 7 locations nationwide (Cork, Dublin, Kerry, Leitrim, Louth, Mayo, Tipperary).

It is open to employers from all industry sectors, including small, medium, and l arge firms. Employers can avail of a €4,000 Employer Grant for each apprentice enrolled on the programme

It is open to employers from all industry sectors, including small, medium, and l arge firms. Employers can avail of a €4,000 Employer Grant for each apprentice enrolled on the programme.

How to register:

For All Industries Available Nationwide

All Industries

€4,000 Employer Grant

€4,000 Employer

Attract & Develop TALENT Internationally Recognised Qualification Flexible Registration Criteria Upskill & Reskill Existing Staff Follow

Attract & Develop TALENT

Recognised Qualification Flexible Registration Criteria Upskill & Reskill Existing Staff

IT’S TIME TO MAKE THE SWITCH, AFTER ONE OF IRELAND’S WETTEST WINTERS

Fleetwood Paints is encouraging homeowners to take advantage of the improving conditions after one of the wettest winters on record. With their recent campaign Fleetwood are encouraging homeowners to Make the Switch to Weather Clad paint. Following a winter that tested exteriors across the country, there has never been a better time to invest in Irish made paint that is built for the Irish climate.

Developed in Cavan and proudly family-owned, Fleetwood has spent more than 75 years formulating paints for the realities of Irish weather, specifically engineered for Ireland’s harshest weather extremes.

Fleetwood Technical Manager and Paint Expert, John Hetherton, has shared his top tips to ensure every homeowner knows how exactly to prepare their house over the coming weeks and months. “The Weather Clad range has been tested to withstand the rugged Irish weather that we have experienced in recent years. Fleetwood looks after the crucial parts, ensuring their exterior paint offers UV protection, resists mould, algae, and dirt build-up, and is long lasting. However, the prep ahead of painting is another important element to consider before your customers start tackling the paint refresh:

– Give a window of dry weather before starting on the project.

– Treat the walls by power-washing with Fungicidal Wash. Allow two - three days to allow this to work.

– Power wash the exterior walls.

– Use Masonry Primer to bind all friable material, if the surface appears chalky after power washing.

Fleetwood Paints Weather Clad has been researched and developed to provide unsurpassable performance and durability against the harshest weather Ireland has to offer. That's why so many homeowners are turning to Fleetwood's Weatherclad, the premium exterior paint built on 40 years of innovation.

Backed by 18 years of guaranteed protection. It’s important to consider choosing an Irish-made paint developed for Irish weather, a product built on local knowledge, decades of experience and a deep understanding of what Irish homes truly need to withstand the elements. Because production and distribution are within Ireland, the carbon footprint benefit of choosing an Irish-made exterior paint is a key factor to consider when purchasing paint.

Homeowners, Cathriona and Seán Sweeney, as well as father and son, Frank & Adam Early, made the switch to Fleetwood Weather Clad in recent years. With both families exposed to the harsh winter weather conditions of Ireland, they explain why they have already made the switch to Weather Clad and their experiences living with Irish weather conditions.

Cathriona Sweeney has spoken on their experience with Fleetwood Paints Weather Clad range, explaining: “The constant battle maintaining our home exteriors in County Mayo over the years has been more and more difficult with the turbulent Irish weather. We have been exposed to the worst of the conditions on the Atlantic coast and only since we made the switch to Fleetwood Weather Clad, do we finally have peace of mind that our home is safeguarded by a paint that actually lasts. At last, we no longer dread the yearly damage of the unpredictable weather, because we know we can rely on Weather Clad to withstand it.”

Relentless rain, hail, snow and even the sun take their toll on our homes throughout the year, constantly battering the walls throughout the seasons. Adam Early said: “It was important for us to choose an Irish made paint because it’s specifically developed for the Irish weather conditions and we knew we required something reliable and made to stand the test of time. We made the switch to Weather Clad, based on dad’s expertise, he knew it was the right paint to choose, given it protects our home from the exposure to wind and rain all year around.”

Fleetwood Paints have created an entire exterior collection to give homeowners peace of mind that their home is fully protected year after year, by a product truly crafted for the Irish landscape. The Weather Clad colour collection has been carefully selected by colour and design experts with 35 colours chosen to work in perfect harmony with Ireland’s tempestuous landscape. Visit www.fleetwood.ie for more information.

GROW WITH CONFIDENCE

The Miracle-Gro® Performance Guarantee: Confidence in every pack

At Miracle-Gro®, science is at the heart of everything we do – and we’re proud to lead the way in plant nutrition.

Our iconic promise ‘Grows Plants Twice as Big’1 is backed by decades of research and rigorous testing, and now we’re excited to introduce the new Miracle-Gro® Performance Guarantee, delivering:

• Bigger plants

• More flowers and fruit

• Greener, healthier leaves

This guarantee gives shoppers the confidence to trade up to premium quality products that deliver real, visible results.

This guarantee gives shoppers the confidence to trade up to premium quality products that deliver real, visible results.

In fact, we’re so confident in our performance that if customers aren’t completely satisfied, we’ll replace the product – no risk, just results2

To support gardeners at every growing stage, our expert horticulturists – the Miracle-Gro® Garden Gurus –are always available with trusted advice to help every garden thrive.

Look for the Miracle-Gro® Guarantee on all plant food products and in-store displays.

Roundup® continues to lead the weedkiller market as the most searched brand online – generating more than twice the search volume of its nearest competitor over the past 12 months3 .

We’ve expanded the Roundup® portfolio to meet evolving consumer expectations – offering fast, visible results with an active ingredient that naturally breaks down in the soil, allowing replanting within days. The refreshed packaging reintroduces the iconic green bottle across the range, enhancing on-shelf visibility. Simplified front-of-pack messaging supports clear product differentiation, helping shoppers confidently choose the right solution for their needs.

Patio Magic!® is a non-acidic product that contains no bleach. A long lasting anti-bacterial disinfectant for easy treatment of green mould and algae, making this product the most popular hard surface treatment. Simply saturate the area and leave to dry. No scrubbing required. Some products are suitable for indoor use as a pre-paint fungicidal wash.

All of our Patio Magic!® products are safe for children and pets after the area has dried

A lawn isn’t just a patch of green – it’s a patch of happiness

For kids: it’s a place to run, play, and escape screens. For pet lovers: it’s a playground for dogs, cats, and even the occasional rabbit. And if those dogs leave behind a few ‘gifts’? Miracle-Gro® can fix those dog spots too.

Weedol® has been a trusted name in weed control since 1905, supporting everyday gardeners by making weed control simple and effective. The entire Weedol® range is 100% glyphosate-free, meeting the growing demand for more natural gardening solutions. Weedol® offers targeted treatments for different areas of the garden, whether it’s permeable patios, borders, or lawns. Fast-acting formulas deliver visible results within hours, with an active ingredient that naturally breaks down in the soil, allowing replanting within days.

Maintaining healthy plants involves many factors—from soil quality and watering to weed control and feeding.

However, pests and diseases often remain the most unpredictable and frustrating challenges, especially for newer gardeners.

The Clear™ range is the No.1 garden control brand4 and offers broad-spectrum plant protection solutions based on natural active ingredients – helping gardeners keep their plants healthy and vibrant while being gentle on nature.

For everyone: it’s a space to unwind; kick off your shoes, feel the grass between your toes, and enjoy a moment of calm – so let’s encourage everyone to ‘Touch Grass’. In today’s busy world, that little moment of peace matters more than ever.

The heart of your home

With Miracle-Gro®, your lawn becomes more than just grass – it becomes the heart of your home. Healthy, happy, and ready for life’s best moments!

THE GUARANTEED IRISH FOREST AT INISTIOGE, CO.KILKENNY IS THRIVING!

Last year, thousands of saplings of native Irish species including oak, birch, hazel and ash were planted to establish the Guaranteed Irish Forest woodland on a 12 hectare site at Inistioge, Co Kilkenny. As one of the supporters of the initiative, Wavin was delighted to see that the saplings are thriving, despite the appalling weather this winter, and that many have shown notable growth. The distinct shapes of leavessuch as the recognisable lobes of young oak are now clearly visible.

In time, the forest which is part of a wider commitment to encourage climate action engagement and increase biodiversity, will be open to local communities to enjoy - a new green space, that benefits both mental and physical health.

Native trees like Oak, Birch, and Holly are vital to Ireland’s ecosystem. Oaks alone can support over 2,300 species, including birds, insects, and fungi. Holly provides food and shelter for birds during the winter, while Birch improves soil health and absorbs carbon dioxide, helping combat climate change and enabling other species to thrive. Planting native trees restores Ireland’s natural woodlands and also contributes to carbon reduction.

Sustainability is at the core of Wavin’s purpose, which as part of the Orbia Group, is committed to advancing life around the world. An initiative like this forest shows clear intention to put purpose into action with the creation of an amenity that will be there for generations to come. The woodland is managed by An Taisce, the National Trust for Ireland, with a focus on climate, nature, and people.

CLADIX: PROFITABLE ALUMINIUM CLADDING FOR BUILDING MERCHANTS

As demand grows for premium-looking, sustainable exterior finishes, CLADIX gives building merchants a proven and profitable aluminium cladding offer that is easy to launch and simple to scale. Made in Belgium and backed by URSUS, their sister company with 20+ years of aluminium cladding expertise, CLADIX combines technical know-how with quality, ease of installation and strong merchant potential.

Already established across the Benelux countries, CLADIX has been successfully rolled out through building merchants, as well as timber merchants and DIY channels. The model is built around a compact core range that is easy to stock and straightforward to extend across multiple branches.

For merchants, the opportunity is clear: premium margin potential, repeat demand from renovation and extension projects, and a product that is easy to sell. Available in two refined finishes (jet black and walnut brown), CLADIX uses a patented tooth-hook system that supports fast, efficient installation.

The result is a durable, low-maintenance aluminium cladding solution that answers a real gap in the market: a premium architectural look without the premium custom-made price tag.

“Quality is at the core of everything we do,” says Luca De Paepe, General Manager at CLADIX. “We want to give merchants a reliable aluminium cladding solution with real commercial potential.”

Scan the QR code to visit their website and download their partnership brochure, or contact Luca De Paepe at luca.depaepe@cladix.eu

HULTAFORS STRENGTHENS IRELAND SALES TEAM WITH EXPERIENCED TRADE PROFESSIONAL

Hultafors is pleased to announce that Jack Flood has joined the business as Area Sales Manager for Ireland.

Jack brings solid experience in trade sales across Ireland, with a proven background in both sales and event marketing. After joining Hultafors in late 2025 and completing a comprehensive onboarding program, he is now working in the field, supporting stockists and retailers throughout Ireland.

In his new role, Jack will be representing the full range of Hultafors premium Swedish hand tools - from measuring and marking tools to cutting, hammering, and levelling equipment.

Each product in the range is designed to meet the demands of professional tradespeople and serious DIYers who are looking for tools that offer reliability, precision, and durability.

"We're confident Jack's experience and understanding of the Irish trade market will help us strengthen our partnerships with stockists and retailers," says Robert Cullen - National Sales Manager Hardware UK & Ireland. "His knowledge of what professionals need, combined with our 140-year heritage of Swedish craftsmanship, means we can continue to deliver the tools that make the workday easier."

Jack is now available to discuss ranging opportunities, product updates, and how Hultafors can support your business.

For more information, email jack.flood@hultaforsgroup.com or call 087 398 9283

PROTECT YOUR TOOLS WITH WD-40 SPECIALIST®

The world-famous WD-40® has been around for over 70 years, empowering builders, mechanics and engineers to get the job done right with its Multi-Use Product. Though it was originally created to displace moisture on aerospace machinery, there’s not a toolbox, garage or household today that doesn’t have a can of WD-40 to hand. With this in mind, the eight-product WD-40 Specialist® range was created for professionals, providing expert formulations that enable jobs to be done more effectively and more efficiently.

WD-40 Specialist Silicone provides excellent lubrication on rubbers, plastic and PVC, and creates a water-resistant seal to protect against moisture. It reduces friction and wear to prevent cracking and ageing of parts such as rubber seals or plastic pipes and can be used on almost any material including metal and wood. The long-lasting lubrication prevents parts from sticking as well as preventing rust and corrosion, making it the perfect all-rounder for conveyors, door runners, window seals, washers and so much more.

A new addition to the range is WD-40 Specialist Dry Lubricant which produces a clear dry film that resists dirt, dust and oil. It leaves behind a durable protective layer that reduces friction and wear on metals, plastics and glass, providing a non-stick surface for smooth lubrication that lasts. Due to the fastdrying nature of the formula, it’s ideal for enclosed spaces or anywhere that may attract unwanted dust and debris, such as locks and catches, door tracks, drill bits, clasps and conveyors. Other lubricants in the range include WD-40 Specialist White Lithium Grease, which is a highly viscous grease for lubricating heavy-duty metal-to-metal connections in all weather conditions, and WD-40 Specialist Spray Grease, a thick lubricant that’s ideal for vertical metal or plastic surfaces as it doesn’t drip or run. Protecting power tools and cutting equipment is key to a successful day on site, and WD-40 Specialist Cutting Oil keeps blades, saws and drills sharp and effective without making a mess.

For those working in greasy, grimy conditions, WD-40 Specialist Degreaser is a no-brainer as it cuts through dirt and oil quickly and can be simply wiped or rinsed away. Rust is often an obstacle in construction projects, so keeping a can of WD-40 Specialist Penetrant within arms’ reach is a wise idea for breaking down rust and corrosion, with the low surface tension formula getting to work in seconds. Whether it’s the batteries on power tools or the wiring inside a building, using WD-40 Specialist Contact Cleaner to remove contaminants and flux residue from electrical contacts will provide longer life and better electrical connections.

Equipped with the innovative Smart Straw™ for more than two decades, losing the coveted red straw is a thing of the past. Keep the straw down to make use of the wide spray or flip the straw up to target smaller areas with precision and accuracy.

NUTS. BOLTS. LOCKS. BLADES. TOOLS. CHUCKS. JOINTS. HINGES. LATCHES. DOORS. SHEARS. BELTS. SCREWS. LIDS. CLASPS. SWINGS. BBQS. BEARINGS. NOZZLES. VALVES. THREADS. SEALS. CHUCKS. LATCHES.

NO STICK JUST SLICK

TRADE ESSENTIALS

THE PONTRILAS GROUP JOINS THE GLENNON BROTHERS FAMILY

Glennon Brothers, the third-generation timber processing business, founded in Longford in 1913 is delighted to announce that the Pontrilas Group is joining the Glennon Brothers family.

Founded in 1947 by the Hickman family, the Pontrilas Group is a well invested family-owned timber processing business, with a rich legacy spanning over 70 years. Strategically situated on the Welsh border, holding established long-term relationships with both suppliers and customers. Significant continued investment over the years has positioned Pontrilas as one of the UK’s leading independent sawmill and packaging businesses. Pontrilas is the largest timber processing mill in England and Wales. With a team of over 530 people, it is led by an experienced long serving management team and has a turnover of £120m.

Mike Glennon commented: “We are delighted to welcome the Pontrilas Group into the Glennon Brothers family. This is a significant milestone in Glennon Brothers history, which dates back to 1913. This provides our customers with an enhanced product

and service offering, as well as increased overall production capacity for the future. This acquisition allows us to continue fulfilling our commitment to our customers of offering a one stop shop solution for sawn softwood across the UK and Ireland”.

Pat Glennon commented: “The opportunity to add value to our established supply chain and core business is extremely exciting. We are thrilled to welcome the Pontrilas team into the Glennon Brothers family, and are excited to start working with them collaboratively, sharing ideas and developing best practice across the wider business. By adding Pontrilas to our existing business, it further enhances our capability to operate fully from forest to front door”.

Glennon Brothers has been at the forefront of green technology solutions within the sawmilling, timber frame home manufacturing, and energy sectors. The addition of the Pontrilas group offers further opportunities, as well as reinforcing the business’ green credentials and overall commitment to sustainability.

KINGSPAN HAS DELIVERED RECORD REVENUE AND PROFITABILITY IN 2025

2025 was another year of great progress at Kingspan, as the company put in place the building blocks for their next wave of growth. Whilst not yet evident in the trading results, these will form cornerstones of future growth across both the Insulated Building Envelopes and Advnsys segments. In the year itself revenue reached a record €9.2bn, and trading profit hit €955m, also a record. Like-for-like trading margin was 10.7% (reported 10.4%).

By segment, revenue at Insulated Building Envelopes was ahead by 6%, and up by a strong 12% at Advnsys. Encouragingly for the year ahead, the order backlog in value at Insulated Building Envelopes was up overall year-on-year and, notably, Advnsys entered 2026 with orders on hand up 24% in value on the same period a year ago and order intake in 2026 to date is double the same period last year.

Despite the persistent challenges presented to the construction industry worldwide, the company pressed ahead with many investment initiatives both organic and inorganic, totalling €751.9m in

the year covering both strategic and bolt-on projects. The split was €325.8m on organic developments and €426.1m on acquisitions, the largest of which were an additional investment in Steico (now at 61%), taking full ownership of Nordic Waterproofing and the acquisition of Mercor’s ventilation and daylighting business.

The general trading environment in global construction markets is not without challenges, as has been the case for a few years now. There are exceptions to this at both ends of the scale. Regionally, LATAM is performing strongly, as is the US tech sector, and Continental Europe is holding its own. Activity in Britain has been weak although not as bad in the second half. By sector, the picture is also very mixed with tech and data related activity running high which plays well for Kingspan, while other industrial and residential markets are lagging historic activity levels. All things considered, the performance of Kingspan in this jumbled backdrop demonstrates the robustness and breadth of the Group and is distinctly more powerful than in the past.

Gene Murtagh, Chief Executive Officer of Kingspan commented: “Kingspan has delivered record revenue and profitability in 2025 alongside continued investment to power our next phase of growth, including over €750m in organic and M&A activity. Despite having doubled revenues since 2020 we have reduced our own Green House Gas emissions by 70% in the same period and we continue to increase our use of lower embodied carbon (LEC) solutions across our product portfolios.”

TREND TOOLS HIGHLIGHT THEIR HARDWARE SHOW SUCCESS

Trend Tool Technology`s Colin Bustard, Country Sales Manager Ireland, tells The Hardware Journal that “The Hardware Show proved to be a very successful event for our team, providing an excellent platform to showcase our products, connect with industry professionals, and strengthening relationships across the sector. Throughout the show we experienced strong engagement at our stand, with a high level of interest from both existing customers and new contacts. The positive feedback we received highlighted the strength of our offering and reinforced our position within the market”.

“One of the key outcomes of the show has been the generation of new business opportunities. We were able to meet a number of potential customers who had not previously engaged with us, many of whom have already expressed interest in working together following the event. These new connections are expected to translate into valuable partnerships and sales in the coming months. Overall, The Hardware Show has increased awareness of our brand and has also opened the door to meaningful growth by attracting new business and expanding our network within the industry”.

The company were proud to present at The Hardware Show, their AnyDoor Hinge Jig Kit, a fully-adjustable, modular router jig designed to quickly and accurately recess square and radius

(10mm) hinges in timber doors and frames. The jig accommodates all hinge sizes, hinge positions, and door heights, making it a versatile and reliable solution for any hinge installation needs.

For more information, please visit www.trend-uk.com or contact Chris Carter, Marketing Director on +44 (0) 7376394791 or email chris.carter@trend-uk.com

SAINT- GOBAIN ANNOUNCES NEW COMMERCIAL SECTOR DIRECTOR

Saint-Gobain has announced the appointment of Barry Hennessy to the newly established role in Ireland of Commercial Sector Director; a strategic leadership position created to strengthen the company’s commercial capabilities and support the delivery of its Lead and Grow ambition across the construction market.

Barry brings more than 20 years of experience within Saint-Gobain, during which he has developed extensive technical, specification and commercial expertise and most recently served as National Specification Manager, where he played a key role in strengthening strategic partnerships and driving commercial performance.

In his new position, Barry will lead the Commercial Sector Division, with responsibility for strengthening demand and championing the value of Saint-Gobain’s

solutions across the full portfolio of Saint-Gobain's brands in Ireland. This role is designed to enhance how the organisation creates and converts demand across the sector and will continue to collaborate with the sales team which remains central to the success of Saint-Gobain's service offering.

Barry said, “I am pleased to assume the role of Commercial Sector Director and to continue contributing to Saint-Gobain’s long-term growth in Ireland. Throughout my career with the organisation, I have seen the significant impact that our technical expertise, innovative solutions and strong partnerships can deliver. In this new capacity, I look forward to working with our teams and industry stakeholders to further strengthen market demand, enhance the value we provide to our customers, and support the delivery of Saint-Gobain’s strategic ambitions across the Irish construction sector.”

For more information on Saint-Gobain brands in Ireland visit www.saint-gobain.ie

BRINGING GREATER CONTROL TO WORKFORCE MANAGEMENT IN HARDWARE RETAIL

Hardware retailers are operating in an increasingly challenging environment. Rising employment costs, changing regulations and seasonal trading patterns mean that managing staff efficiently has become a critical part of protecting margins and maintaining service levels.

Gig Grafter provides a workforce management platform designed to help employers gain clearer visibility over staffing, streamline payroll processes and improve rota planning. Built with Irish businesses in mind, the platform supports time and attendance tracking, workforce planning and wage cost awareness - all within a single, easy-to-use system.

For hardware retailers, staffing is one of the most significant controllable expenses. Without accurate information, it can be difficult to understand where costs are increasing or how staffing levels align with customer demand. Gig Grafter helps to address this by providing clear insights into hours worked, overtime trends and staffing patterns across the business.

Improved visibility allows managers to plan rotas more effectively, reduce unnecessary overtime and support compliance with employment legislation. At the same time, automation reduces manual administration, helping store owners and managers spend less time on paperwork and more time focusing on customers and sales.

As the hardware sector continues to adapt to economic and operational pressures, smarter workforce management is becoming an essential tool. Choosing a local software provider that understands local business needs can play an important role in helping retailers operate more efficiently, sustainably and confidently.

For more information contact James Callaghan, 087 439 6708 or email james.callaghan@giggrafter.com

CUSTOMISED FLOOD BARRIERS

Based in Wicklow, DEFE Flood Barriers supply heavy duty, compact and durable flood protection products. As seen at The Hardware Show recently, the barriers are specifically engineered to prevent water and flood damage for a wide variety of premises. These flood barriers are ideal for use on residential doors and windows, business premises, underground entrances, car parks, schools and public service amenities. The company offer value for money and guarantee a quality product delivered directly. DEFE is dedicated to providing an affordable and efficient service to their clients located in flood risk locations and beyond.

Easy to Install

With a simple installation process, almost anyone can secure their home or business against floods and water damage with DEFE flood barriers. Thanks to the customisable width and two variations of securing mechanisms, their flood barriers will ensure your investments remain safely protected.

Built to Last

DEFE Flood Barriers have been specifically engineered to provide a long-lasting product at an affordable price. The flood barriers are made from 6063-T5 Construction Aluminium and 304 Stainless Steel. They will ensure your home or business is flood proof for years to come.

Secure your home or business

Each of the flood barriers feature a wide variety of width options, and are custom made to measure per their client's specifications.

In the case of the barrier width being greater than four metres (depending on the height of the post), an additional connecting

middle post support will be supplied to provide added durability against heavy water pressure.

For further information please contact, DEFE Flood Barriers, Unit 10, Charvey Way Business Park, Rathnew, Co. Wicklow, A67 C652. Phone: +353 0404 25570, email info@defe.ie or visit www.defefloodbarriers.ie

HARDWARE SHOW SUCCESS AT GROWMOOR

Growmoor Better Growing work closely with both retail and professional partners to provide a dependable service. They supply expert support and a range of brand leading products you can trust season after season. Their commitment to excellence, sustainability and continuous improvement ensures that when you choose Growmoor, you’re choosing a company that’s passionate about better growing today and for the future.

Their sister company GroWorm also have a full range of products approved under the Organic Farmers & Growers (OF&G) Approved Input scheme. This certification is a huge achievement and a

clear testament to GroWorm’s dedication to sustainability, soil health and producing top-quality, environmentally responsible growing solutions.

Stephen Compton says “We had the pleasure of exhibiting at The Hardware Show in February with our sister company GroWorm. We were delighted with the attendance of existing and new customers. The location of the show is ideal, great parking, hotels and restaurants. We are already looking forward to 2028”.

Growmoor Better Growing supply reliable, performance-driven products designed to deliver consistent results.

Ireland Sales Manager.

As a market leader their reputation is built on innovation, quality control and a deep understanding of what growers need to succeed at every stage of growth.

For further information contact, Stephen Compton, Ireland Sales Manager, Growmoor Better Growing, on 0044 (0) 7730 403802 or email stephen@bettergrowing.com

DRAPER TOOLS BECOMES DISTRIBUTOR FOR PREMIUM GERMAN MEASURING TECHNOLOGY BRAND LASERLINER

Draper Tools is pleased to announce it has become an official Ireland and UK distributor for Laserliner, the German specialist in professional measuring technology.

The partnership brings Laserliner's comprehensive range of over 100 precision measuring tools to tool retailers, builders’ merchants and buying groups, offering Draper stockists a recognised premium brand that serves multiple trade sectors. Established for more than 25 years, Laserliner has built a reputation for German-engineered, performance-driven measuring solutions. The brand specialises in laser levels and accessories, electronic measuring tools, distance finders, thermal imaging cameras, wall scanners, moisture meters, sound meters, multimeters and video inspection cameras.

Meeting the Needs of Professional Trades

Whilst primarily focused on the construction market, Laserliner's range extends across multiple sectors. The brand's video inspection cameras are well suited to automotive workshops and specialist trades, enabling retailers to serve a broader customer base and unlock new revenue streams.

Every product in the Laserliner range is backed by an industryleading four-year warranty, underlining the brand's commitment to quality and durability. Selected measuring devices also integrate with a dedicated app for digital control and notetaking, providing tradespeople with modern solutions for documentation and precision work.

Delivering Convenience and Performance

A standout product in the Laserliner range is the PowerPlane Laser 3G Multi 18V (stock no. 32743), a three-dimensional green laser that delivers exceptional visibility even in challenging lighting conditions. A key feature is its compatibility with existing 18V battery platforms through separately available PowerAdapters, allowing tradespeople to use batteries from all leading power tool brands. This compatibility removes the need for additional battery systems, offering both convenience and cost savings for end users whilst providing stockists with a compelling selling point.

Big benefits for Draper Stockists

Any stockists adding Laserliner to the shelves via Draper can benefit from access to a recognised, premium measuring technology brand that serves a wide range of sectors from construction to electrical, HVAC, automotive, surveying and DIY markets too. There are also cross-selling opportunities to be had within the Laserliner range, alongside other Draper products. All of this comes with the full support of Draper's established 5-star customer service team.

There are printed Laserliner catalogues available now for in-store use and customer distribution, speak to your Draper Area Sales Manager to find out more.

View the full range at www.drapertools.com

“SEALED TECHNOLOGY”: EINHELL PRESENTS FIRST WATER AND DUST-PROTECTED BATTERY

Einhell Germany AG, a leading supplier of battery-powered DIY and garden tools, put its faith in batteries at an early stage, positioning itself as category leader in this sector with its Power X-Change platform. The battery specialist is now expanding its cordless range with a new, innovative and patented battery technology known as “SEALED TECHNOLOGY”. The company is presenting a new battery that meets IP57 requirements for protection against dust and water jets and can even be immersed in water briefly.

Tested and certified by TÜV Rheinland

“With Power X-Change, they identified at an early stage their customers’ need for battery-powered solutions. That’s why they’re particularly proud to announce the market launch of their new SEALED batteries, supplementing their Power X-Change platform with another trailblazing technology. This is yet another expression of our bundled battery expertise,” says Dr. Markus Thannhuber, CTO of Einhell Germany AG.

The SEALED Power X-Change Plus battery will initially be offered in both the 3.0 Ah and the 4.0 Ah version. They have been tested by TÜV Rheinland and certified as conforming to the IP57 standard. The “5” refers to the level of protection against dust, while the “7” stands for the water protection class. That means the battery is optimally protected against both the possible ingress of fine dust from drilling, milling and sawing and the ingress of water from strong jets. It can even survive temporary immersion in water up to a depth of one meter for around 30 minutes. The integrated short circuit fuse on a special contact in the battery mount allows the sensor to detect contact with water and switch the electronics off. This ensures that the dried battery can be used again even after being immersed completely in water. The use of Power X-Change PLUS technology allows the latest generation of lithium-ion cells to be installed in the SEALED batteries.

The 18 V, 4.0 Ah SEALED Power X-Change PLUS battery is the high-end product in the Power X-Change family, and also suitable for twin-pack use in 36 V applications. The ABS process-controlled active battery management system has a microprocessor for permanently monitoring the battery parameters, thus ensuring maximum safety, optimum tool performance, maximum operating time, and a long service life.

The current charge level can be checked on a three-step LED display. The housing has been designed to withstand corrosion and mechanical influences, while the rubber coating gives the battery high impact protection alongside good grip. There is a trough handle to enable easy removal from any tool. The SEALED batteries are compatible with all battery-powered DIY and garden tools across the Power X-Change platform, which already comprises more than 300 tools. It can also be combined with other Power X-Change batteries that do not feature SEALED technology.

For further information contact Rowan O'Meara, Sales Director - Ireland, on +353 86 8269905, rowan.omeara@einhell.com or visit www.einhell.co.uk

KLIPBOARD LAUNCHES KLIPBOARD MONEY, AN INTEGRATED PAYMENTS SOLUTION THAT HELPS BUSINESSES GET PAID FASTER

Klipboard, a leading provider of sector-specific business software (formerly Kerridge Commercial Systems Ltd), have recently announced the launch of Klipboard Money, a payments solution designed to help businesses get paid faster, reduce operational friction, and save time.

Klipboard Money is already revolutionising payments and cash flow for large and small companies including distributors, equipment rental companies, automotive and parts businesses who are saving time and getting cash quicker as a result.

Fully Integrated Payments

While standalone payment providers focus solely on taking payments, Klipboard Money integrates into Klipboard’s business management platforms to simplify payments and account reconciliation.

From rental depots managing deposits, extensions and damage charges, to distributors handling account pricing and trade customers, Klipboard Money supports complex, real-world payment scenarios. Every payment - at the counter, on an invoice, online or on the move - is connected into a single, sector-specific workflow that standalone providers simply can’t offer.

Proven Impact

Early adopters are already seeing the benefits of a simpler, more connected approach to payments.

By removing delays, simplifying reconciliation, and aligning payment methods and channels with how customers want to pay, businesses using Klipboard Money are improving cash flow, reducing admin overheads, and creating a smoother experience across every transaction.

Built for How Businesses Get Paid Across the Sectors We Serve

Klipboard Money supports the real payment scenarios used every day across trade-focused businesses, helping customers pay quickly and keeping work moving, including:

– Payment links and QR codes on invoices, so customers can pay instantly without phone calls or delays, while reducing fraud risks associated with taking card details over the phone.

– Deposits and prepayments to secure work, rentals or orders and reduce no-shows.

– Fast in-store payments, keeping queues moving during busy periods.

– Payments through your website or customer portal, so customers can pay anytime, even outside business hours.

– Repeat billing using securely stored payment details, making ongoing charges simple and hassle-free.

– All payments are managed through a single platform, reducing reliance on multiple providers and giving businesses one point of contact for both their software and payment support.

Availability

Klipboard Money is available now across Ireland, the UK, North America, Europe and Australia, helping businesses modernise their payment processes as part of a connected business platform.

To learn more or book a demo, visit: www.klipboard.com/ solutions/payment/klipboard-money

KASK - ENHANCING HEAD PROTECTION

In a safety industry long shaped by regulations dating back to the 1970s, KASK has consistently chosen a different path. Founded in Italy in 2004, KASK is a premium designer and manufacturer of safety helmets, delivering confidence in demanding environments such as construction, work-at-height applications, manufacturing, mining, forestry, emergency, and rescue. The company’s mission is to develop helmets that exceed the strictest global safety protection standards while maintaining the balance between technological excellence, functionality, and innovative design - with a lifespan of up to ten years.

“Our approach has never been just to comply with standards,” explains Bart Declerck, Business Development Manager UKIRE-Benelux at KASK Safety. “At KASK, we work to elevate them. We believe that safety comes from anticipating real risks and designing protection that people want to wear every day.” Thanks to decades of experience and patented technologies, “KASK designs high-performing helmets and accessories that actively strengthen workplace safety culture, each developed to meet specific professional needs while sharing the same DNA of Comfort, Safety and Design.”

While the hard hat has long symbolised workplace safety, today’s risk landscape - particularly on construction sites - highlights the limitations of traditional vertical-impact protection alone. “We increasingly see injuries linked to falls, slips and trips rather than only falling objects,” says Declerck. “These impact scenarios are not fully addressed by the traditional EN 397 standard. For this reason, KASK integrated the additional impact performance requirements of EN 12492 - the European mountaineering helmet standard - into its industrial helmet development.”

KASK’s proactive approach to risk assessment is also reflected in the evolution of official standards. EN 397:2025 Type 2 no longer focuses only on vertical impacts but introduces requirements for lateral impacts and energy absorption. “The new standard establishes a stronger regulatory framework focused on real product performance, reducing areas open to interpretation and aligning helmet performance more closely with the real risks workers are exposed to,” says Bart. “KASK has always played an active role in shaping standards, contributing technical expertise and field experience to certification working groups.”

“A helmet is no longer a standalone product,” explains Bart. “It must function as a complete protection system where every accessory integrates without compromising stability or performance.” KASK helmets feature a vertically adjustable ratchet system that enables precise, micro-metric fitting to different head shapes and sizes, ensuring optimal stability and weight distribution even with a full array of accessories installed, reducing pressure points and supporting all-day comfort. “All KASK helmets feature a fully compatible range of

certified eye, face and hearing protection, including earmuffs, mesh and clear visors, ARC-rated face shields for electrical environments, plus a front attachment point for advanced customisation and easy integration of accessories such as badge holders and headlamps.”

This focus on fit and system performance also highlighted another critical issue: not every worker could achieve an optimal fit with traditional size ranges. Through research and field feedback, KASK identified a clear gap in the market and developed the ZENITH X MAX - the first industrial safety helmet extending the fit range up to 66 cm, compared to the traditional 63 cm limit, while remaining fully compliant with EN 397. “With the ZENITH X MAX, KASK extended the size range to 66 cm to guarantee the same level of protection, comfort, and system compatibility for a broader group of workers. For KASK, inclusivity goes beyond comfort - it’s about ensuring that every worker has access to the same level of protection.”

Discover more at www.kask-safety.com

Above The Shop Feature

THE REUSE OF VACANT “ABOVE-THE-SHOP” UNITSA FIRE OFFICERS PERSPECTIVE

Introduction

The reuse of vacant “above-the-shop” units in urban centres is now more attractive than ever due to recently expanded grant incentives for owners of such buildings. However, these projects require expert guidance and oversight and should not be undertaken on a “DIY” basis. Prospective developers should engage the services of a competent technical professional to guide them through the process and oversee and certify the works. This should ensure the correct application of fire safety provisions and avoid costly errors. The Hardware Journal asked Martin Moore, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Tipperary Fire and Rescue Service to give us his professional perspective.

Legislation

Two primary pieces of legislation apply when considering fire safety in the reuse of “above-the-shop” units, the Fire Services Acts 1981 & 2003 and the Building Control Act 1990 (as amended).

The Fire Services Acts 1981 & 2003 applies to both the commercial ground floor unit and any prospective residential units overhead regardless of the age of the premises. The Act requires that the person in control of the premises ensures “reasonable” fire safety provisions are in place at all times.

The Building Control Act 1990 (as amended) legislates for Building Regulations and Building Control Regulations. Building Regulations are the minimum standard that works or a building undergoing works should achieve, such as fire safety. Whereas the Building Control Regulations demonstrate compliance with the Building Regulations. For example, the Fire Safety Certificate application process demonstrates how a building will comply with Part B (Fire Safety) of the Building Regulations.

Prospective developers should familiarise themselves with these pieces of legislation and obtain competent technical and legal advice to ensure they fully understand their statutory duties should they wish to reuse an “above-the-shop” unit.

Fire Safety Certificate Process for VATSU Reuse

Where it is proposed to reuse the vacant floors above a commercial business as residential accommodation, a Fire Safety Certificate will most likely be required. While most people will be aware of the Planning Permission process, the FSC process is not widely understood. The process involves appointing a competent technical professional such as a fire engineer to prepare a report and drawings detailing how proposed works will comply with fire safety standards. This application is submitted to the Local Authority where Fire Officers will review the application and determine whether the

proposed works will comply with the fire safety aspects of Building Regulations. At the end of the process the Local Authority / Building Control Authority certify the design.

Key Fire Safety Considerations

There are six parts to Fire Safety Building Regulations;

– Part B1 - Adequate means of warning and escape.

– Part B2 - Adequate linings to Walls and Ceilings to inhibit fire spread.

– Part B3 - Adequate fire resistance to prevent fire spread through the building.

– Part B4 - Prevention of external fire spread to boundaries and other buildings.

– Part B5 - Adequate access and facilities for fire services.

– Part B12 - Provision of sufficient information on fire safety systems.

All parts will apply to above-the-shop unit reuse, however the key parts that require the most attention are B1 (means of escape) and B3 (fire resistance) as they pose the most difficult issues to overcome.

The first step in any “above-the-shop” unit project is a conditional survey of the existing property. This will inform the number of dwelling units that may be possible along with forming the road map of required works. Prospective developers should be aware that fire safety provisions are lesser for a one dwelling unit above the shop and increase where additional units are proposed due to the need for a protected communal escape route, interlinked fire detection and alarm system and emergency lighting system.

My research in this area has indicated that there are three primary obstacles to “above-the-shop” unit reuse as it pertains to fire safety, namely:

1. The separation of the escape route of the flat(s) from the commercial unit:

The escape route from the flat(s) should be entirely independent of the commercial unit. This can pose a problem due to history of this building stock where a

stairway was typically located at the rear of the shop providing access to the accommodation overhead for the shopkeeper’s family. A dedicated escape route for the flat(s) via a stairway enclosed in fire-resistant construction leading to a final exit is required, communication through the commercial unit is not acceptable. In some situations, the existing stairway may not be suitable for reuse and a new entrance and stairway may be required to satisfy the escape route from the flat(s). There is a misconception that an external fire escape stairs must always be providedthis is rarely the case. It is more preferable to protect an internal stairway with fire-resisting construction and fire doors to achieve a protected internal escape route.

2. The provision of fire-resistant lobbies between the escape stairway and the flat:

Where multiple dwelling units are proposed, the communal escape stairway should be provided with a lobby at all levels to minimise the entrance of smoke into the stairways from a fire within a flat. Alternative to a communal lobby is the provision of a protected entrance hallway to each flat. This comprises fire resisting walls and fire doors within the hallway of the flat. However, both the lobby and the protected entrance hallway reduce the available floor area of a prospective flat and owners should take this into account when complying with other pieces of legislation such as the minimum floor areas required for flats under Planning Regulations.

3. The provision of fire compartmentation between the commercial unit and residential overhead:

The risk of a fire within the commercial unit impacting the residential area must be mitigated through compartmenting the building with robust construction to limit fire spread. Generally, the floor between the commercial unit and overhead residential will need to be upgraded with fire resistance and services within the floor void should be relocated. There are two methods available to upgrade the floor – improve fire resistance from below by installing a fire-resistant layer to the ceiling (i.e. plasterboard) or by lifting the floor boards from above and installing a proprietary fire-resistant product between the floor joists. The method chosen will need to consider the impact on the commercial unit particularly where it is operational. Documents such as BRE Digest 208 and BR 128 published by the British Research Establishment provide useful guidance on the fire resistance upgrade of existing floors.

Some of these elements may require you to consider compensatory fire safety measures elsewhere which should be discussed and agreed with your local Fire Authority.

Above The Shop Feature

Conclusion

The reuse of vacant “above-the-shop” units in urban centres is key to unlocking underutilised residential accommodation. Fire safety provisions must be at the forefront when considering such a project. With competent technical advice from a qualified professional, the fire safety aspects can be easily incorporated into the project. Inevitably, bespoke solutions may be required depending on the individual peculiarities of “above-theshop” units building stock, however through consultation with the local Fire Authority, solutions can be found.

Martin Moore

MSc., BSc. (Hons), C. Build E MCABE, MIBCI, Registered Building Surveyor Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Tipperary Fire & Rescue Service

Goods-in errors: The silent margin leak

How misunderstood ERP processes quietly distort stock, pricing and margin in merchanting and retail operations.

Most merchants and hardware retailers assume their stock systems are broadly accurate. Modern ERP platforms track thousands of products, process supplier deliveries and generate detailed margin reports. In reality, the reliability of those systems depends heavily on the human operational processes behind them.

Research into inventory accuracy by *René DeHoratius and Ananth Raman found that inventory records differed from physical stock counts in more than 60% of observations. While many discrepancies are small, they typically originate from human involved operational activities such as receiving, counting and transaction entry.

For merchants managing thousands of SKUs and frequent supplier deliveries, even small misunderstandings of system workflows can quietly create stock inaccuracies, pricing distortions and unreliable management reports.

When Processes and Systems Don't Align Modern ERP systems used in builders' merchants support several purchasing workflows including standard stock purchases, direct supplier-to-customer orders and special orders for individual jobs.

Each of these transaction types behaves differently within the system. Some update the stock file while others bypass it entirely. If staff are unclear about how these workflows operate, errors can easily sneak into the system.

Real Example 1: ERP Process Error

In one merchant operation I observed, staff were able to place supplier purchases using a direct order setting designed for goods delivered straight from the supplier to the customer. However, staff later receipted these same orders using the normal goods-in process and raised Goods Received Notes (GRNs) as if the items were standard stock purchases.

This resulted in stock inaccuracies, distorted margin calculations and unreliable management reporting. The issue was not a failure of the ERP system itself but simply a misinterpreting of how the process should operate.

Real Example 2: Goods-In Process Failure

In another store I worked with, stock errors regularly originated at the goods-in stage due to weak processes, under-resourced teams and operational pressures.

In one instance a supplier delivery arrived and the goods were unloaded. The supplier delivery docket was signed and staff briefly glanced at the pallets before ticking the docket to indicate everything had been received.

The checking process was entirely manual. There were no goods-in scanners to confirm that the correct items had been delivered, let alone verify the quantities.

A member of the back-office team later processed the Goods Received Note based purely on this visual check. There was no second verification, no record of who physically counted the goods and no follow-up cycle counts to confirm stock accuracy. In effect, the only verification took place during the annual stocktake! By the time discrepancies were discovered it was far too late to investigate the original delivery. The only practical option was to adjust the stock valuation.

Why Goods-In Is a High-Risk Stage

Operations management research consistently identifies the receiving process as one of the most common sources of inventory inaccuracies.

This is the stage where products are counted, delivery documentation verified and system stock records updated. If an error occurs at this point it enters the stock file and may remain undetected for months.

Common Causes of Goods-In Errors

– Lack of structured checking procedures. Without defined processes staff may rely on quick visual checks rather than verifying quantities against purchase orders.

– Under-resourced teams. Goods-in areas are often staffed lightly compared with the volume of deliveries arriving each day.

– Pressure to clear deliveries quickly due to limited space in yards or warehouses.

– Manual checking processes without barcode scanning technology.

– Lack of accountability where no record exists of who checked a delivery.

– Infrequent stock verification where discrepancies are only discovered during annual stocktakes.

Inside Industry View

The Importance of the Three-Way Match

The most reliable control remains the traditional three-way matching process:

Purchase Order –> Delivery Note –> Goods Received Note.

When these match in product, quantity and cost price, the business can be confident that both stock and financial records are accurate.

Systems Rarely Fail - Processes Do

In some merchants, staff operate under pressure. Trade counters are busy, deliveries arrive unpredictably and many products look similar. Under these conditions shortcuts can become routine habits that slowly introduce data inaccuracies. Periodic reviews of purchasing and goods-in workflows often reveal operational gaps that have been quietly distorting stock records and margin reporting.

Merchant Takeaway

With management and team buy-in, training, documented processes and follow-up procedures, goods-in errors can be reduced to a minimum. Most stock inaccuracies originate from small process errors during purchasing or goods-in, so from today:

– Ensure staff understand the difference between stock orders, direct supplier deliveries and special orders.

– Regularly review how ERP processes are actually used in practice - not just how they were designed to work.

Source

* DeHoratius, R. & Raman, A. (2008). Inventory Record Inaccuracy: An Empirical Analysis. Management Science, 54(4), 627–641.

David Gavin is a retail and merchanting professional based in Dublin. He has extensive experience in builders merchants, DIY stores and plumbing supply operations, with a focus on improving operational processes, stock accuracy and margin performance.

If you’d like a chat about any operational challenges you may face, please contact me at david.gavin@dazo.ie / 086 6004812

Innovative Store Design

WHAT IF YOUR STORE ENVIRONMENT COULD WORK HARDER FOR YOUR BOTTOM LINE?

The Foundations: Is Your Hardware Store Working for You? What if your store environment could work harder for your bottom line? This article is the first in a series focused on helping hardware and building materials retailers rethink their store environment from a commercial perspective. The objective is simple: to encourage store owners and operators to step back, assess their physical space with fresh eyes, and recognise how intentional store design can actively improve performance.

Building materials and hardware retail has always been built on strong fundamentals; knowledgeable staff, deep product range and long-standing customer relationships. Many stores have grown steadily over decades through sound decision-making and close ties to the community.

Growth, however, often happens in layers!

A new category is introduced. More stock-holding space is required. A promotion is added. A supplier display arrives. Seasonal products shift position. Signage goes up to support new ranges. Over time, the store becomes a collection of solid decisions made at different stages of the business.

That evolution reflects resilience. Yet every successful store benefits from asking a strategic question: Is the store's design and structure actively supporting performance?

Because layout is not simply operational. When approached intentionally, it becomes a commercial asset that influences customer behaviour, staff efficiency and profitability.

The First Ten Seconds Store design begins at the entrance.

When a customer walks into your store, they form an impression almost instantly. Within the first ten seconds, they decide whether the environment feels organised, professional and easy to navigate.

Our store design for Tirlán in Monasterevin is a good example of this in action. As customers enter the store, the layout immediately feels clear and structured. Large overhead banners clearly identify the key departments, allowing shoppers to quickly understand how the store is organised while also reinforcing the Tirlán brand throughout the space.

The result is a store environment that communicates confidence and clarity from the moment you walk through the door. Clear sightlines, strong zoning and well-considered presentation allow the design to speak for itself without needing explanation.

From your own doorway, consider what a first-time customer sees.

– Can they clearly identify your main departments?

– Is it obvious what type of hardware store you are?

– Do they see structure or visual overload?

Good store design communicates immediately through zoning, lighting and hierarchy. Clarity builds trust, and trust influences spending.

Long-standing customers may know your layout instinctively. New customers do not. A store that is easy to understand from the outset supports both.

Busy Is Not the Same as High Performing Building materials and hardware retailers rightly take pride in strong stock depth. Full shelves communicate capability and reliability. The challenge is balancing range with ease of navigation.

High-performing stores combine comprehensive stock with clear department zoning, logical category adjacencies, and intuitive pathways. Related products sit together. Key categories are visible from important sightlines. Movement feels natural. Effective store design reduces friction.

Customers should be able to locate what they need quickly while still discovering additional products. When layout is intentional, staff spend less time giving directions and more time offering advice.

Advice adds value. Direction consumes time. That distinction has a measurable commercial impact.

What Strong Foundations Look Like

Strong foundations are not about expensive refits. They are about the clarity of design thinking.

They typically include:

– Clear department zoning visible from key sightlines

– Logical placement of related categories

– Defined customer flow

– Prominent positioning of products that represent your store identity

– A communication hierarchy that prioritises what customers see first

At Atkins Farm & Garden Store in Bandon, Co. Cork, the service counter is clearly visible from the entrance. Customers instantly have a reference point. They know where to go if they need support. That single design decision improves navigation and reinforces service as a core strength.

Innovative Store Design

Store design is about prioritisation. Deciding what matters most and giving it presence.

Stand at your entrance and identify your three strongest margin categories. Are they visible early in the journey? Walk your main aisle. Is there a clear focal point? Customers process information in layers. Well-designed environments support that process.

Structure Supports Growth

Independent building materials and hardware retailers hold significant advantages. Agility, local knowledge, generational loyalty and community trust.

The physical store should reinforce those strengths. A wellstructured layout makes seasonal changeovers smoother. It allows new categories to integrate seamlessly. It supports clearer promotions and stronger supplier presentations. It elevates brand perception while maintaining local character.

Stores with strong structural thinking are easier to refresh, extend or modernise. They adapt to change with confidence.

Conclusion: Laying the Foundations

If you were opening your builders merchant or hardware store today, what would you prioritise?

– Clear zoning.

– Visible expertise.

– Strong category presentation.

– Calm, confident communication.

The next steps to laying strong foundations are practical:

– Begin with an honest walk-through of your store from the entrance.

– Identify what customers see first.

– Clarify your strongest categories.

– Refine visual noise.

Strengthen reference points such as counters or service areas. Meaningful improvements often come from considered structural adjustments rather than large capital investment.

Building materials and hardware retail remains one of the most resilient sectors. When the physical environment is intentionally designed to support your expertise and service, the store becomes a powerful commercial asset.

Strong foundations are not about decoration or trend. They are about intelligent store design that supports long-term performance.

Peter can be contacted at peter@rigneyforge.ie or visit www.rigneyforge.ie for more information.

Peter Rigney is Founder and Creative Director of Rigney Forge, a retail design studio based in Co. Westmeath. With experience across hardware, grocery, garden centres and hospitality, Peter and his team specialise in creating high-performing store environments that combine commercial strategy with strong brand identity. Rigney Forge works with independent and multi-site retailers across Ireland, helping businesses modernise and strengthen their in-store experience through structured, insight-led design.

HAI Corporate Partners

CASH MANAGEMENT

Brink’s Cash Services

CORPORATE PARTNER

Customer Services 0818 111 330 nationalservicecentre@brinks.com www.brinks.com

GLORY Ireland

David O’Meara 086 383 0650

David.OMeara@ie.glory-global.com www.glory-global.com

CREDIT & FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT

Credit Risk Brokers

James Riordan 01 491 6007

james.riordan@creditriskbrokers.com www.creditriskbrokers.com

PKF Brenson Lawlor

Ian Lawlor 01 668 9760 ian@pkfbl.ie www.pkfbrensonlawlor.ie

ECOMMERCE AND IT SUPPORT

Agility Software Ltd

Core Tech

Geraldine Quinlan Burke 025 41400

Galvia AI

Karina Kelly 083 0905945 karina@galvia.ai www.galvia.ai

GenetiQ Software

Mark Gurney 042 933 1742 mark.gurney@genetiqsoftware.com www.genetiqsoftware.com

.ie

Seán Tobin 01 236 5400 stobin@weare.ie www.weare.ie

Klipboard 01 5457100 hello@klipboard.com www.klipboard.com

Magico

Paul Montwill 065 6864580 pmontwill@magico.com www.magico.com

Premio eCommerce

David Malcolm 01 253 0282 david@agility-software.com www.agility-software.com

geraldine.quinlan@coretechnology.ie www.coretechnology.ie

Michael Morrissey 021 245 5022 michael.morrissey@premio.ie www.premio.ie

StudioForty9

Gerard Keohane 021 239 2349

ger@studioforty9.com www.studioforty9.com

HAI Corporate Partners

ELECTRONIC SHELF LABELS

Katie Kirwan 01 295 4844 katie@digi.ie www.digi.ie

ENERGY MANAGEMENT

DCS Group

Caroline Sugrue 066 7181836 carolinesugrue@dcsgroup.eu www.dcsgroup.eu

Michelle McKenna 087 383 7301 michelle@pinergy.ie www.pinergy.ie

FIELD SALES & MARKETING

CPM Ireland

akelly@cpmire.com www.cpmire.com

WASP Technologies

Richard Baird 086 2857843 richard.baird@wasptech.com www.wasptech.com

INSURANCE

Brown & Brown

David Lombard 021 4730005 david.lombard@bbrown.com www.bbrown.com/.ie

Margin Investments Ltd t/a NFP

Kevin Whelan 01 6672644 kevin.whelan@nfpireland.ie www.nfpireland.ie

LOGISTICS

Dachser Ireland

Melissa Barr 01 401 3333 melissa.barr@dachser.com www.dachser.ie

Woodland Group

Lee McMullen / Shauna Dunne 01 8111500 lee.mcmullen@woodlandgroup.com shauna.dunne@woodlandgroup.com www.woodlandgroup.com

MATERIALS HANDLING

Clearlift

David McCullough 01 5267 411 sales@clearlift.ie www.clearlift.ie

Combilift

Peninsula Business Services (Ireland) Limited

Michael Gombart 1800 719 215 michael.gombart@peninsula-ie.com www.peninsulagrouplimited.com/ie

TSA Consultants

Tommy Smyth 021 4634154 tommy@tsaconsultants.ie www.tsaconsultants.ie

Anthony Rooney 047 80500 anthony.rooney@combilift.com www.combilift.com

Henley Forklift Group Ltd

Mark Kenny 01 6209200 sales@henley.ie www.henley.ie

HAI Corporate Partners

PAYMENT SERVICES

Elavon Merchant Services

Peter Cooke 0818 202 120 peter.cooke@elavon.com www.elavon.com

RECRUITMENT

Tactical Talent

Vinny Kelly 01 9079192 info@tacticaltalent.ie www.tacticaltalent.ie

SECURITY SYSTEMS

CSC Covert Security Consultants

Declan Cassin 0818 273274 info@cscsecurity.ie www.cscsecurity.ie

SeaChange

Eamonn Condell 045 856028 / 085 2524679

Eamonn.condell@seachange-intl.com www.seachange-intl.com

Securitas Technology Ireland

Denise McCarthy 086 1916327

denise.mccarthy@securitas.com www.securitastechnology.com/ire

Why become a HAI Corporate Partner?

By becoming a Corporate Partner, you can link your organisation to the pursuit of excellence and quality in the Hardware, Building Materials & DIY sector.

Hardware Association Ireland will help you to promote your company to all key decision makers in the sector with;

– A listing on the HAI website, www.hardwareassociation.ie

– The use of the widely recognised HAI Corporate Partner logo and a Corporate Partnership Certificate

– A free listing with logo and contact details on the Corporate Partners Pages in each issue of The Hardware Journal

– A preferential member rate for advertising in The Hardware Journal, plus three free classified advertisements

SHOPFITTERS/RACKING SYSTEMS

OHRA Racking Solutions

Seamus Coyle + 44 28 8224 7858 coyle@ohra.de www.ohra.ie

Shop Equipment Ltd.

Padraig Downey 087 8135242

Padraig_downey@sel.ie www.shopequipment.ie

Storefit Shopfitters Limited

Eamonn Brien 021 4344544 eamonn.brien@storefit.com www.storefit.com

Store 2000

Paul Bennett 087 2332402

Paul@store2000.ie www.store2000.ie

TELECOMMUNICATIONS SALES & INSTALLATIONS

IP Telecom Sales Team 01 6877777 sales@iptelecom.ie www.iptelecom.ie

Want to find out more?

Contact us today to become a HAI Corporate Partner info@hardwareassociation.ie or phone 01 2980969

– Preferential rates and early access to event sponsorship and networking opportunities

– A preferential rate for exhibitor space at The Hardware Show

– Positioning your company as a solution-provider for the hardware, building materials and DIY sectors

– Access to all the latest industry news via regular emails and updates.

The Hardware Show 2026

CELEBRATING THE SUCCESS OF THE HARDWARE SHOW 2026

The Hardware Show 2026 supported by Intact (now GenetiQ, see page 7) has once again proven to be a standout event for the hardware and building materials sector, bringing together the industry for two busy, energetic, and highly productive days of connection, innovation, and collaboration.

With nearly 180 exhibitors across home, garden, build, and DIY, the show floor was alive with new ideas, product launches, and solutions designed to help businesses grow and evolve. Exhibitors showcased the very best the sector has to offer, creating a dynamic environment that encouraged conversation, discovery, and opportunity.

"The event was a great success from our standpoint, it is a fantastically run event and gives us the platform to meet new and existing customers."

Steve Jordan, Portwest (Exhibitor)

Over 2,000 key decision-makers from across the hardware and building materials industry attended, eager to do business, strengthen relationships, and uncover innovative products and services to support their customers and drive their businesses forward. The level of engagement and enthusiasm throughout the event was a clear reflection of the strength and momentum within the sector.

"It’s brilliant to have it all under one roof. It’s all about seeing what exhibitors have to offer, what’s new, and about building that relationship again."

Karl Staunton, Chadwicks (Visitor)

A major highlight of the show was the Innovation Awards, which celebrated excellence, creativity, and forward-thinking within the industry. This year saw over 50 products initially shortlisted, narrowed down to a final 25 outstanding innovations, before ultimately recognising a final group of shortlisted and winning products. Congratulations to all of this year's winners, whose innovations continue to raise standards and shape the future of the sector. Find the full list of all the winners on pages 42 & 43.

Supported by:

The celebrations continued at the President’s Ball (supported by Irish Cement and Saint Gobain) which welcomed over 250 key industry figures for an evening of glamour, entertainment, and networking. The gala event was a wonderful celebration of collaboration and connection, providing an opportunity for attendees to come together, reflect on shared successes, and enjoy the social side of the industry.

On behalf of Hardware Association Ireland, HAI President Tara Brennan and HAI CEO Martin Markey would like to extend sincere thanks to everyone who attended The Hardware Show, exhibited, participated in the Innovation Awards, and joined us at the President’s Ball. A special word of appreciation also goes to our sponsors, whose continued support plays a vital role in the success of the event.

Highlights and photos from The Hardware Show 2026 are shared on our website. Visit www.thehardwareshow.ie to relive the moments and see the event highlights.

Thank you for being part of another memorable Hardware Show. We look forward to welcoming you back again in 2028 as we continue to celebrate, support, and champion our industry.

E A S O N S F O R A T T E N D I N G :

F I N D N E W

P R O D U C T S / I D E A S

S O U R C E N E W

S U P P L I E R S

M E E T E X I S T I N G

S U P P L I E R S

N E T W O R K I N G

W P R O D U C T L

U N C H E S V I S I T O R S T A T S

satisfied with their visit N

Were first-time visitors

Visitors across both days.

Placed orders following their visit.

Innovation Awards 2026

THE INNOVATION AWARDS 2026

BEST HARDWARE / DIY PRODUCT WINNER

Magnus Monitors

Magnus Hawki

Being presented with their award by Hardware Association Ireland

President Tara Brennan are Brian Murray, Sales Manager, Magnus Monitors and Xavier Slevin, Chief Operations Officer, Magnus Monitors, with Carmel Smith, Marketing Executive and Customer Care Manager at Combilift, Sponsor of The Innovation Awards with Martin Markey, CEO Hardware Association Ireland.

BEST BUILD & SUSTAINABILITY PRODUCT WINNER

CJ Sheeran

LOOP Pallet

Being presented with their award by Hardware Association Ireland

President Tara Brennan is Lisa Dooley, Sales Operations and & Process Lead, CJ Sheeran, with Carmel Smith, Marketing Executive and Customer Care Manager at Combilift, Sponsor of The Innovation Awards, with Martin Markey, CEO Hardware Association Ireland.

BEST GARDEN PRODUCT WINNER

ATKO Group Ltd

Buffalo Brush Range

Being presented with their award by Hardware Association Ireland

President Tara Brennan is Gary Auld, Sales and Marketing Manager, ATKO Group Ltd. with Carmel Smith, Marketing Executive and Customer Care Manager at Combilift, Sponsor of The Innovation Awards with Martin Markey, CEO Hardware Association Ireland.

BEST HOME PRODUCT WINNER

Unilin Flooring Ireland Ltd

Elka 13mm Real Wood Engineered 100% Waterproof Flooring

Being presented with their award by Hardware Association Ireland

President Tara Brennan is Gerard Mallon, Country Manager Ireland, Unilin Flooring Ireland Ltd with Carmel Smith, Marketing Executive and Customer Care Manager at Combilift, Sponsor of The Innovation Awards with Martin Markey, CEO Hardware Association Ireland.

HARDWARE / DIY HIGHLY COMMENDED AWARD

Soudal Ireland Ltd

Fix All Squeeze and Seal

Being presented with their award by Hardware Association Ireland

President Tara Brennan is Tony Anderson, Head of Retail, Soudal Ireland Ltd with Carmel Smith, Marketing Executive and Customer Care Manager at Combilift, Sponsor of The Innovation Awards with Martin Markey, CEO Hardware Association Ireland.

Innovation Awards 2026

HARDWARE / DIY HIGHLY COMMENDED AWARD

Charles Hughes (Portwest Ireland)

Portwest BX323 - Ultimate Modular Hi-Vis Rain Jacket

Being presented with their award by Hardware Association Ireland

President Tara Brennan is Damien Fee, Senior Commercial Manager at Charles Hughes (Portwest Ireland) with Carmel Smith, Marketing Executive and Customer Care Manager at Combilift, Sponsor of The Innovation Awards with Martin Markey, CEO Hardware Association Ireland.

HARDWARE / DIY HIGHLY COMMENDED FOR SUSTAINABILITY AWARD

Tembe DIY Building and Decorating Products Ltd

Hippo Multi-Purpose Bamboo Wipes

Being presented with their award by Hardware Association Ireland

President Tara Brennan is Guy Malam, Sales Director UK, Nicola McGonagle Marketing Director, Tony White, Sales Director Ireland with Carmel Smith, Marketing Executive and Customer Care Manager at Combilift, Sponsor of The Innovation Awards with Martin Markey, CEO Hardware Association Ireland.

HIGHLY COMMENDED BUILD AWARD

Wavin Ireland Ltd

Tegra 600

Being presented with their award by Hardware Association Ireland

President Tara Brennan is Declan Conlon, Sales Director Wavin Ireland with Carmel Smith, Marketing Executive and Customer Care Manager at Combilift, Sponsor of The Innovation Awards with Martin Markey, CEO Hardware Association Ireland.

COMMENDED HOME AWARD

Superb Hardware Ltd

Celtic Woodcare Restorative Polish

Being presented with their award by Hardware Association Ireland

President Tara Brennan is John Stone, owner of Superb Hardware Ltd. with Carmel Smith, Marketing Executive and Customer Care Manager at Combilift, Sponsor of The Innovation Awards with Martin Markey, CEO Hardware Association Ireland.

MAGNUS HAWKi RECOGNISED WITH MAJOR INDUSTRY INNOVATION AWARD

Magnus Monitors is proud to announce that its MAGNUS HAWKi smart oil tank monitor has been recognised at The Hardware Show 2026 Innovation Awards, receiving both the Best Hardware/DIY Product award and the Best Overall Product title.

Selected from a strong field of entries, the awards recognise products that demonstrate outstanding innovation, practical value, user benefit and commercial relevance. In awarding MAGNUS HAWKi, the judges acknowledged a product that addresses a real and longstanding challenge in the market with a solution that is modern, well-executed and highly accessible.

Magnus Monitors is a Galway based IoT smart telemetry solutions company which has being providing commercial radar-based tank level monitoring solutions since 2020. In 2024 Magnus decided to design, develop and manufacture a simple cost effective highly accurate consumer related product at its Galway facility. Since its launch in the Irish market in September 2025, this fully Guaranteed Irish product has gone from strength to strength in terms of unit sales and large-scale consumer market adoption.

At a time when many areas of the home have embraced smarter, more connected technology, oil tank monitoring has often remained reliant on older, more limited methods. MAGNUS HAWKi was developed to change that by making tank level monitoring easier to access, easier to understand and easier to adopt in everyday use.

A key factor in the product’s adoption is its ability to combine innovation with practicality. Rather than introducing complexity,

Supported by:

MAGNUS HAWKi focuses on delivering a straightforward user experience, from installation and setup through to day-to-day use. Its smartphone-first design, clear level visibility, alerting capabilities and simple onboarding process all contribute to a solution that is highly usable for homeowners while also being practical for the wider industry.

Ease of installation was clearly one of the product’s standout strengths. MAGNUS HAWKi has been designed to be quick and simple to fit, with a peel-and-stick installation method using a high-strength 3M adhesive pad, allowing it to be mounted easily without complicated tools or specialist work in many common applications. That simplicity makes it accessible to a much wider range of users and removes one of the traditional barriers to adopting tank telemetry.

Importantly, the product addresses one of the major practical issues that can limit wider rollout of telemetry solutions: connectivity. By operating with long-range Bluetooth rather than depending on a cellular connection at the tank, MAGNUS HAWKi avoids many of the issues associated with weak-signal or marginal coverage areas. This makes deployment more straightforward and more dependable across a broad range of household settings.

No Subscription

Unlike many smart devices today, MAGNUS HAWKi doesn’t require a monthly subscription. There are no hidden charges. Just a one-time purchase.

Finally, innovation never stops at Magnus Monitors as they are planning on launching some exciting new complementary MAGNUS HAWKi products and services later on this year. First up, we are aiming to launch our MAGNUS HAWKi Wifi Gateway in 2026, this complementary product will enable customers to connect to their MAGNUS HAWKi tank monitor even when it’s located at a remote site via their broadband connection, e.g. Holiday Homes, Schools, Warehouses, etc.

Oil tank monitoring has been due for an upgrade for years. That upgrade is here, and it’s called MAGNUS HAWKi. It’s smart, accurate, fast & easy to install, user-friendly, and genuinely helpful for both homeowners and professionals. Whether it’s a tank behind the house or on a farm, MAGNUS HAWKi offers a modern solution built for the way people live and heat their homes today.

For further information visit www.magnusmonitors.com

Innovation Awards 2026

BUFFALO WINS BEST GARDEN PRODUCT

Buffalo has been awarded Best Garden Product at The Hardware Show 2026 Innovation Awards. the premier trade event for Ireland’s hardware and building materials industry.

The judges recognised the innovation of Buffalo’s Tuff-Lok bracket, the overall quality of the brush range, and the space-saving design of the metal brushware retail display stand - a product and display designed specifically with the trade in mind.

“This award is a significant achievement for Buffalo and reflects our commitment to delivering durable, reliable, and value-driven products for both professionals and retailers,” commented a Buffalo spokesperson.

The spokesperson went onto say “We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to ATKO Group for showcasing Buffalo at The Hardware Show and representing the brand so effectively. Their support was instrumental in putting our products in front of the right audience and helping secure this recognition.”

Gary Auld at ATKO commented “We were delighted to take Buffalo to The Hardware Show this year, the range is going from strength to strength. Attendees were able to view the brush range with Tuff-Lok brackets and the metal brushware stand, which is provided free with the recommended stock fill, helping retailers maximise sales ahead of Spring 2026”.

Retailers interested in stocking Buffalo’s award-winning range can contact Gary Auld, ATKO Group Ltd, +44 (0) 78 4845 1636, gary.auld@atko.co or visit www.atkogroup.co.uk

Innovation Awards 2026

CJ SHEERAN SECURES DOUBLE WIN AT HAI INNOVATION AWARDS

CJ Sheeran celebrated a major achievement at this year’s Hardware Show in the RDS, winning both the Best Build Product Award and the Overall Sustainability Award at The Hardware Show 2026 Innovation Awards.

The awards recognise the company’s commitment to innovation and sustainability within the construction and building materials sector.

At the event, CJ Sheeran showcased The Pallet LOOP, a reusable pallet system designed to tackle waste and inefficiencies associated with traditional single-use pallets used across construction supply chains. The system introduces a circular logistics model where pallets are collected, returned and reused, helping to reduce waste while improving operational efficiency.

Supported by:

The Pallet LOOP launched in Ireland in 2025 through a collaboration between CJ Sheeran and Saint-Gobain’s Gyproc brand. The initiative demonstrates how manufacturers, distributors and builders’ merchants can work together to introduce more sustainable material handling solutions. Unlike traditional pallets that are often discarded after a single use, The Pallet LOOP provides a durable, returnable pallet system that supports circular economy principles and reduces waste on construction sites.

CJ Sheeran’s double award success highlights the growing importance of sustainable innovation across the construction supply chain.

To learn more about The Pallet LOOP, visit www.cjs.ie, call +353 (0)57 87 56700, or email loopcollectionsireland@cjs.ie

Innovation Awards 2026

ELKA FLOORING: WHERE STYLE MEETS INNOVATION

In the world of home interiors, few products combine beauty, practicality, and performance as effortlessly as Elka floorings recently introduced 13mm Waterproof Real Wood Engineered range. Recently crowned ‘Best Home Product’ at The Hardware Show 2026 Innovation Awards, the range showcases Elka’s commitment to innovation, offering homeowners the confidence of high-end flooring that stands up to everyday life.

The 13mm engineered boards deliver the timeless warmth and texture of real wood, while being 100% waterproof, making them ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, hallways, and open-plan spaces where resilience is essential.

Engineered with real wood layers topped with a genuine hardwood surface, the flooring resists expansion and contraction caused by temperature and humidity, all while maintaining the authentic character of solid wood. The range comes with a 25-year domestic warranty, truly standing by the products durability.

Available in a selection of six colours, each plank carries its own unique grain patterns, giving every installation a distinct, natural charm. The 13mm thickness adds substantial presence underfoot, combining a luxurious feel with long-term resilience. Designed with the Uniclic installation system, with no glue down necessary, means that

the Elka 13mm real wood engineered flooring installation is fast and flawless.

From contemporary open-plan homes to classic interiors, Elka’s 13mm Waterproof Real Wood Engineered flooring merges award-winning innovation with timeless design. It proves that function and elegance can coexist seamlessly, offering homeowners a stylish, practical foundation for modern living.

To learn more about the range, checkout https://elkaflooring.com/flooring/ real-wood-engineered and contact our team at orders.uk@unilin.com for more information

President's Ball

Overall Innovation Award Winners and Best Hardware / DIY Product Winners, Magnus Monitors for their Magnus HAWKi, being presented with their award at The President's Ball. L - R Hardware Association Ireland President Tara Brennan, Xavier Slevin, Chief Operations Officer, Magnus Monitors, Brian Murray, Sales Manager, Magnus Monitors and Martin Markey, CEO Hardware Association Ireland.

Winners of the Innovation Award for Best Build Product and the Sustainability Award were LOOP Pallet who were represented on the evening by L - R - Back Diarmuid Cahill - Senior Sales & Business Development Manager Ire & UK - CJ Sheeran, Andy Williamson - Managing Director - The Pallet LOOP, Mark Sheeran - Managing Director - CJ Sheeran, Eugene O Reilly - Sales Executive - Coolrain Sawmills. L - R - Front Fergal Moran - Business Development Director - CJ Sheeran, Steven Norval - Sales & Procurement Manager, Coolrain Sawmills, Lisa Dooley - Sales Operations & Process Lead, CJ Sheeran and Brendan Hogan - Operations Manager, CJ Sheeran.

Store Profile

Topline Heavins & Euronics / Heavins.ie

Topline Heavins & Euronics is a proudly family-run Irish business with over 40 years of trading history, serving local communities across the midlands and nationally.

What began as a trusted local hardware retailer has grown, evolved, and adapted through decades of change in both consumer behaviour and the broader retail landscape.

The business was built on a foundation of customer service, local knowledge, and a genuine commitment to the communities it serves. Over the years, key milestones have included the expansion of the product range from hardware into electrical, appliances, homewares, garden, DIY, and home décor, evolving into a true one-stop shop for the home. More recently, the business has successfully diversified into new verticals including toys, jewellery, and home & fitness, broadening its audience and increasing basket size potential.

A defining turning point came in 2019 with the launch of www.heavins.ie, the business's eCommerce platform, which opened up the brand to customers nationwide. In 2024, the business undertook a significant platform migration from ABCommerce to Shopify, a complex challenge managed by a team of just two people in collaboration with our colleagues at StudioForty9, who simultaneously maintained full day-to-day trading. The migration was executed successfully, with proactive SEO auditing, careful URL redirect mapping, and ramped-up paid and email marketing used to protect traffic and momentum throughout. The new platform has since delivered greater flexibility, smarter apps, and the foundation for continued growth.

Physical

parallel. The premises has been developed to accommodate a widening product range, with dedicated departments, a newly opened bathroom showroom, and an ever-improving in-store layout. The business is today led by Joint Managing Directors Paul and Derek Heavin, who are the driving force behind operations and also the public faces of the brand. They are well-known across social media with their product content and customer communications in their signature green jackets.

The story of Heavins is one of a family business that has continuously reinvented itself without losing what made it great in the first place: real people, real service, and genuine care for every customer.

Customer Experience

Premises & Range: The Topline Heavins & Euronics store offers customers a well-organised, wide-ranging retail environment spanning hardware, electrical appliances, homewares, garden products, DIY, and an ever-growing home décor department. The layout is designed to be intuitive and accessible, with clear departmental signage and merchandising that helps customers navigate the full range with ease.

The store carries an extensive product catalogue, from air fryers and robotic lawnmowers to bathroom accessories, garden décor, power stations, and seasonal essentials. The guiding philosophy is simple: everything available, all under the one roof.

Store Profile

Brands & Suppliers: Heavins works with a carefully curated selection of trusted brands across all categories, prioritising quality, value, and reliability. These supplier relationships are central to the business, ensuring the right products are available at competitive prices, backed by solid after-sales support.

Online & In-Store Connection: The in-store and online experiences are treated as deeply connected. Heavins.ie serves as a discovery and consideration tool, while the physical store gives customers the opportunity to see, touch, and experience products in person. Many customers travel from across the country specifically for that in-person reassurance, a testament to the reputation the business has built.

Extra Services & Going the Extra Mile: Heavins offers Click & Collect with designated parking bays, clear signage, and a dedicated counter for a fast, effortless pickup experience. Online orders are dispatched the same day in 76% of cases for orders placed before 1pm. Every order online includes a handwritten thank-you slip, a small but memorable gesture that reinforces the personal service the brand is known for. Branded packaging turns each delivery into a considered, positive customer moment.

Our People

Paul Heavin and Derek Heavin are hands-on in the day-to-day running of the business. Uniquely, Paul and Derek are also the public faces of the brand appearing in TikTok videos, Instagram content, and product demonstrations that blend humour, authenticity, and genuine product knowledge. Their approachability and transparency are central to what makes Heavins stand out.

The eCommerce operation is run by a lean, agile team of two, enabling fast decision-making and a culture of continuous improvement. There is no red tape, if something needs fixing, it gets fixed; if an opportunity arises, it is acted upon.

Across the wider business, staff are selected and trained with a strong emphasis on product knowledge, customer communication, and going above and beyond. The team's distinguishing quality is that they are empowered to use common sense; there is no "computer says no" approach here. Every customer interaction, whether in-store, by phone, or online, is handled with the same care and attention.

Staff backgrounds span retail, technology, and product expertise, giving the team a well-rounded understanding of customer needs from a first-time DIY buyer to a seasoned home improver. Longserving team members bring deep institutional knowledge that enhances the quality and consistency of service.

Survival and Success

Hardware and independent retail are undeniably tough sectors, yet Heavins has not just survived, it has thrived. The secrets to this success are rooted in a few core beliefs: stay close to the customer, be willing to adapt, and never sacrifice service for the sake of convenience.

Awards the business is proud of:

– Winner: Best Customer Service at the Midlands 103 Customer Service Awards

– Winner: Most Trusted Website of the Year at the Digital Business Ireland Awards

– Winner: Ecomm Live Awards 2025 B2C eCommerce Website of the Year

–

Winner: Ecomm Live Awards 2025 Customer Service Award

These awards serve multiple purposes: they reinforce customer confidence, attract new customers who discover the brand through award coverage, and validate the team's daily efforts. They are also a source of genuine pride for a business built on doing the right thing by its customers.

Heavins see the barriers in this sector as being online competition, price pressure, shifting consumer habits, and rising operating costs are real.

But they view them as opportunities to differentiate through service, trust, and personality, areas where a family-run business can genuinely outperform a faceless competitor.

Customer Focus

Heavins serves a broad but well-understood customer base. The primary audience consists of value-conscious consumers, homeowners, renters, families, and DIY enthusiasts aged 25–55 who want dependable service, competitive pricing, and a retailer they can trust. The business also serves trade customers and local community members who have been shopping with Heavins for generations.

Customer needs have evolved considerably, particularly in recent years. There is a stronger demand for convenience, speed, and digital-first experiences without losing the human touch. Heavins has responded by investing in tools that make the online journey as personal and frictionless as possible.

Customer feedback is central to how the business evolves. Tools such as Hotjar, post-purchase surveys (with over 2,000 respondents), and review platforms provide a constant stream of insight that informs everything from product range decisions to website UX improvements.

Outlook

The retail landscape both in DIY/hardware and electrical is undergoing significant change. Key emerging trends include the growing demand for energy-efficient products (dehumidifiers, heat pumps, power stations), the rise of smart home technology, and an accelerating shift to online-first purchasing behaviours, even among traditionally in-store shoppers.

For DIY specifically, there is a resurgent interest in home improvement, driven in part by the housing market and consumers investing more in their existing homes. The bathroom and home décor segments in particular represent strong growth areas, as evidenced by Heavins' own data.

The challenges are real: margin pressure, competition from large online marketplaces, and the cost of keeping pace with digital innovation. But Heavins sees these as navigable. The opportunity lies in being a trusted, human alternative, a business that combines the convenience of eCommerce with the reliability and warmth of a family-run store.

Development plans include continuing to grow the homewares and home décor department, deepening the eCommerce tech stack, expanding social commerce, and building on the strong community and awards profile that Heavins has established.

Community

Topline Heavins & Euronics has been a committed part of its local community for over 40 years. As a locally owned and operated business, it is a significant employer in the area and takes its responsibilities seriously, from providing stable, quality employment to offering products and services tailored to the needs of the local population.

The business supports local sports clubs, schools, and community initiatives through sponsorships and partnerships. This communityfirst ethos is not a marketing exercise, it is an extension of the same values that have guided the business since its founding.

Online, this community role has extended nationally, with Heavins.ie becoming a trusted destination for Irish shoppers across the country who value supporting an independent Irish business over a multinational platform.

Sustainability

Store Profile

Heavins is committed to helping customers and the business itself operate more sustainably. This includes a growing range of energyefficient products, from power stations and solar solutions to energy-saving appliances, helping customers reduce their environmental footprint and household running costs.

Operationally, the business continually reviews its packaging, logistics, and supply chain practices with an eye on reducing waste and improving efficiency. The WaveOMS fulfilment integration has also contributed to sustainability by reducing errors and returns, fewer failed deliveries and returned parcels means less unnecessary transport and waste.

The expanding homewares and home décor range increasingly includes eco-conscious product lines, reflecting the evolving preferences of Heavins' customer base.

Unique Selling Point

If there is one thing that sets Heavins apart, it is this: the personal touch of a family-run business, delivered at the speed and scale of modern eCommerce.

Customers know they are dealing with real people, Paul and Derek Heavin are not hidden behind a corporate structure; they are the brand. That authenticity, combined with over 40 years of retail experience, a relentless focus on service, and the agility to embrace new technologies faster than most, creates something that larger competitors simply cannot replicate.

From the handwritten thank-you slip in every order to a 4.8-star average across 13,000+ reviews, Heavins has proven that a small, values-driven team can compete, and win, against the best in Irish eCommerce.

Top

Tips

1. Know your customer and stay close to them

Use data, surveys, and reviews to understand what they need, and act on what you find. At Heavins, customer feedback has directly shaped product range decisions, website improvements, and service investments.

2. Invest in service infrastructure before you need it. Getting your fulfilment, communications, and customer journey right, before problems arise, is far more effective than firefighting after the fact.

Be human.

In a world of chatbots and automated responses, a handwritten note, a familiar face on a TikTok video, or a phone call that actually gets answered makes an enormous difference. Customers remember how you made them feel.

Play the long game

Forty years of reputation cannot be built overnight, but it can be damaged quickly. Every decision, from pricing to packaging to how you handle a complaint, either builds or erodes trust. Choose to build it, every single day

Local Retailing in the USA

Loyalty programs for the win!

This is the final installment in my Big 5 series, profiling the five metrics my team uses to track the health of our hardware chain and it’s all about our Scan Rate.

In this context, Scan Rate measures the percentage of our total customer rewards transactions to the total transactions rung up at point of sale.

A Bold Goal

Our target scan rate is 70% of all transactions.

When you own a neighbourhood hardware store, you learn pretty quickly that you’re not just selling screws, paint, or a new rake for the yard. You’re selling confidence. You’re selling advice. You’re selling the reassuring feeling that a business in your community wants to help you.

So, after more than two decades in this business, if I believe one thing it’s this: the most powerful tool in a hardware store isn’t a hammer or a power drill. It’s relationships.

And a practical way to strengthen those relationships is by implementing an effective customer loyalty program. One that your team believes in, and your customers genuinely want to be part of. It needs to have stickiness and importance to keep it relevant.

But years ago, when the leaders at Ace Hardware suggested we implement the Ace Rewards Loyalty program, I convinced myself it would annoy my customers, not endear them to us. So, I balked.

I’m sure you remember the original loyalty programs that required customers to carry around a little plastic card, typically attached to their keychain. There wasn’t a great deal of back-end technology associated with them at the time and our keychains started to feel more like a ball and chain. They got bulkier and heavier and more cumbersome. As a consumer myself, I just gave up.

Ace was ready with a strong argument though - their data could demonstrate what our average ticket was for customers, who used the cards and those who didn’t.

Mind the Gap

That answer was a whopping $12.50! With more than 71 million customers enrolled worldwide, and top tier customers shopping an average of 27 times a year, who was I to argue with them?

So, we hopped on the bandwagon, implemented the program, and have been growing it ever since. Our current scan rate is 68% for all 13 stores with 73% of total sales coming from reward members

Loyalty Is Built at the Counter

In a neighbourhood hardware store, the checkout counter is where a lot of magic happens.

It’s where a first-time customer becomes a regular. It’s where someone who came in for a single lightbulb leaves with a new understanding of how to fix their garbage disposal. It’s where conversations happen about weekend projects, leaky roofs, stubborn door hinges, and the best tomatoes to plant this year. You know exactly what I mean!

A loyalty program should feel like a natural extension of that interaction.

When a customer signs up, it shouldn’t feel like paperwork. It should feel like being welcomed into the club.

Your Team

Has to Love It First

Before a loyalty program can win over customers, it has to win over the people working behind the counter.

That means involving the team early. Ask them questions like:

– What rewards would our customers actually care about?

– What would make sign-ups easier during busy weekends?

– What benefits would make regulars excited?

Instead of saying, “Do you want to sign up for our loyalty program?” they say something like, “If you’re doing projects around the house, you’ll probably want to be in our rewards program. You can rack up reward dollars pretty quickly. All I need is your phone number to enroll you.”

That shift - from script to conversation - is where loyalty programs start working.

Customers Need a Reason to Care

A strong program might include things like:

– Reward points for purchases

– Exclusive sales for members

– Early access to seasonal items

– Invitations to DIY workshops

– Project tracking or purchase history

The “Coveted”

Factor

Another bit of research Ace was able to supply was the number of times a rewards customer of ours is ALSO shopping at our competition. They are able to do this by cross-referencing credit card purchases made by customers who are in our program. For us in the U.S. it was “how many times are my loyal customers

Local Retailing in the USA

going to Home Depot or Lowes or places like Walmart and Targetall big competitors of ours.

And as you can imagine, that loyalty was tenuous. Customer were shopping 30% more at those places than ours, all the more reason for us to promote the program.

How do you know it’s working?

One of my favorite signs that a loyalty program is working is when customers start asking about it before you even mention it.

You’ll hear things like:

“Can you make sure this goes on my rewards account?”

“My neighbour said you guys send great coupons.”

“Can you look up my past purchases?”

That’s when you know the program has crossed an important line: it has become something customers value, not something they tolerate.

Before stepping down as CEO, I would often sneak down from my third-floor office to be a cashier on particularly stressful office days.

The team loved teasing me about my cashiering skills (I swear I’m GREAT at it!) and I would often forget to ask the customer in front of me if she or he was a rewards member. I was always pleasantly surprised when that person reminded ME to add their account number to their purchase. Apparently, the customers are as good at training us as we are them.

Training Afterall, Is Everything

Here’s a lesson we learned the hard way: if you want a loyalty program to succeed, you have to train your team on it, the same way you train them on tools.

Employees should understand:

– How the program works

– What benefits customers receive

– How to sign people up quickly

– How to answer common questions

More importantly, they should know why it matters. When employees see the program as a way to help customers save money and stay connected to the store, they’ll naturally talk about it more often.

And consistency is key. If one employee mentions the program but another never brings it up, customers get mixed signals. Clearly, I needed to be better trained!

Do the programs work in Ireland?

Estimates vary slightly by study, but most research shows that roughly three-quarters of Irish consumers belong to at least one loyalty program with shoppers actively participating in about four loyalty programs per month on average. (https://chillipepper.ie)

This data indicates that Ireland is one of the more loyalty-engaged markets in Europe.

The European loyalty programs market is expected to reach roughly $31.8 billion (€33b) by 2029 implying that loyalty programs are here to stay and becoming an even larger tool for retail outlets like hardware stores to take advantage of.

What to be aware of

Even though enrollment numbers are large, roughly half of loyalty memberships may be inactive, showing the gap between sign-ups and meaningful participation.

The industry calls this “loyalty fatigue” which occurs because consumers are enrolled in many programs but only regularly interact with a few of them.

Our challenge then is to differentiate. To stand above the noise by creating convenient programs, recognition, or experiences - not just discounts.

The Bottom Line

Our online and big box competitors are stronger, bigger, richer and have more resources to help build loyalty away from us. And at the end of the day, customers can buy a hammer almost anywhere.

But they will come back to a place where they feel known. They come back to businesses that know their shopping habits, their names and their past projects.

Strong loyalty program just might help with this challenge - it certainly made a difference for my company.

Footnote:

I’m curious if any of my readers implemented a program based on one of Big 5 metrics I’ve written about in my last 5 articles?

Please share your efforts, challenges and results with me at gina@ginaschaefer.com

Gina Schaefer, founder of Ace Hardware stores, is a dynamic keynote speaker with nearly 22 years of experience in community-building and business transformation. She grew her business from one to 13 locations, empowering over 130 co-owners. Gina’s engaging talks focus on creating positive corporate cultures, effective succession planning, and empowering women in business. She inspires audiences with her compelling stories and actionable insights, motivating them to drive change and achieve success in both business and life.

A View from Europe

How to embrace technology in DIY?

Our colleague Thierry Coeman tells us how the Belgian DIY Trade Fair theme highlights the human factor.

Over the years, trade fairs have evolved from pure sales platforms into genuine meeting places, supported by wellthought-out marketing strategies.

A strong overarching theme often serves as the foundation for a complete professional experience, including an extensive seminar programme.

This was also the case at the biennial edition of DIY-ProGarden, Belgium’s leading trade fair for the DIY sector, held in Kortrijk, West-Flanders.

To strengthen the theme, the organisers commissioned a qualitative study (NIQ-GfK) to assess how ready the different stakeholders are to embrace technology at an accelerated pace. At the same time, a proof of concept was tested in two well-known retail stores, demonstrating in real-life conditions how technology can streamline and improve in-store processes.

Welcome Mr. B to DIY

Until recently, robotics in retail was often perceived as a technological gimmick. Early application, mainly limited to hospitality and entertainment, sparked curiosity but offered little operational value. Robots welcomed customers and attracted attention, yet rarely contributed structurally to store processes or sales optimisation.

That phase is now clearly behind us. Rapid developments in robotics, artificial intelligence and data processing have given rise to a new generation of retail robots that operate as fullyfledged, multidisciplinary tools on the DIY store floor.

In an environment marked by increasing complexity, rising costs and a structural shortage of qualified retail staff, robots are becoming a crucial component of the operational model for DIY retailers.

Not a Replacement, but a Reinforcement of the Human Factor

A key principle is that robots are not designed to replace store employees, but to support and strengthen them. Especially in DIY retail, where expertise and advice play a decisive role in the customer journey, the human factor remains indispensable. Robotics acts as an assistant: an extension of the employee, taking over repetitive tasks, collecting data, overseeing store operations with an eagle eye and guiding customers more efficiently towards the right information or solution.

“The robot, nicknamed Mr. B. - engineered in Belgium - and recently deployed over eight weeks at Hubo Heeren in Zonhoven (12,000 m²) and Brico Plan It in Ternat (14,000 m²), currently fulfils seven clearly defined functions,” explains Tom Dujardin, co-founder of DeDuCo, Benelux market leader in CRM and retail robotics.

These include:

– continuous monitoring of product availability

– guiding customers to the correct product location

– mobile marketing communication on the shop floor

– analysing planogram execution and shelf compliance

– interaction with electronic shelf labels (ESL)

– a preventive role in theft-sensitive areas

– supporting field marketers and merchandisers in planogram implementation.

These functions sit precisely at the intersection of operational efficiency and customer experience, two domains where DIY retailers must differentiate today.

Data

as

the Foundation of High-Performance Robotics

The true strength of retail robotics lies not in the hardware itself, but in the data it generates, analyses and activates. In particular, shelf management and price consistency have a significant impact.

Incorrect price indications are not only legally problematic; they also directly undermine consumer trust. Numerous studies show that price inconsistencies rank among the most common frustrations for shoppers.

This insight was confirmed by the D.A.T.A. study (“Accelerating Technology Adoption in DIY”) conducted by NIQ/GfK and presented during the 36th edition of DIY-Pro-Garden. The study highlights the importance of enriching clean, reliable data quickly, both on the retail side and among suppliers.

“Smart data is no longer a future concept, but an absolute prerequisite,” says Tom Dujardin. “Mr. B is fully integrated into the retailer’s IT ecosystem. Its performance depends not only on the technology itself, but above all on the quality of the data and the expertise of suppliers who provide and optimise that data.”

As a final added value, Mr. B even goes beyond its technical role by acting as a convincing brand ambassador within the category, underpins Martijn van der Sluijs, marketing manager Benelux, Bolton Adhesives.

Concrete Advice at the Right Moment

In DIY retail, customers often visit the store at a critical moment in their project journey: right in the middle of a job, when they encounter a problem. The need for reliable, practical and immediately applicable advice is particularly high.

Martijn van der Sluijs illustrates this with a familiar example: “DIY customers often come in with very specific questions. For instance, when installing a mirror inside a built-in bathroom: which adhesive is most suitable? In such cases, the robot application acts as a first advisor and guides the customer towards the right choice.”

This support is far from redundant. “Independent studies show that today, four out of ten customers leave the DIY store with the wrong adhesive or sealant,” Martijn continues. “That leads to frustration, returns, complaints and reputational damage. Correct advice is therefore crucial, and that is exactly where the robot is purposefully programmed to help.”

Beyond the Proof of Concept

What this evolution makes clear is that robotics in DIY retail has moved beyond the experimental phase. Robots are no longer deployed “because it’s the future”, but because they demonstrably contribute to productivity, data quality, customer satisfaction and ultimately sales.

Stijn Heeren, Hubo franchisee, is convinced: “This test has clearly shown that investing in technology already provides us with a strong competitive advantage today. It is a step-bystep process in which the entire store infrastructure must be carefully aligned to get the best out of the robot.”

For professionals in retail, supply chain and brand manufacturing, this is an important conclusion. Robotics does not require a stand-alone implementation, but an integrated approach in which technology, data, store processes and supplier knowledge come together. Further tests are currently

A View from Europe

under negotiations, involving several brand manufacturers operating across different product categories. The objective is twofold: to generate additional smart data while simultaneously enhancing brand visibility.

Those who succeed in doing so take a clear step towards a future-proof DIY business model.

Harmonising Tech and Human Touch

Beyond the innovations on the DIY store floor, the seminar programme at DIY-Pro-Garden also offered room for broader reflection. Because technological progress does not only create operational opportunities, it also raises a more fundamental question: how do we preserve the human dimension in an increasingly automated world?

In his keynote Harmonising Tech and Human Touch, Pieterjan Bonne, Lecturer at Artevelde-Antwerp University, emphasised that future-orientated retail is not solely about optimising processes, but equally about trust, emotion and human behaviour.

No doubt, we need to embrace technology, but meanwhile the human factor always will make a fundamental difference. DIY retail will remain forever an interactive experience of emotions, trust, social and human values.

As an opening, he referred to Prof. Andrew Scott (London Business School): “As machines get better at being machines, humans must get better at being humans.”

Pieterjan Bonne made the message tangible by highlighting the difference between what technology can improve and what truly drives people. “Humans are not purely rational: we carry bias, psychological needs and expectations”, he stated. Technology will undoubtedly move DIY to the next level, but soul still moves people. “Innovative times are driven by inventive people.”

The DIY & garden store of the future: What’s changing?

The DIY and garden retail sector is at a pivotal moment. For decades, the model has remained largely unchanged: largeformat stores, product-heavy layouts, and a reliance on customers knowing what they need before they walk through the door.

But today’s customer is different, they’re less confident with practical skills, more digitally influenced, more time-poor, and increasingly motivated by inspiration rather than necessity. At the same time, expectations around convenience, sustainability and experience have been reshaped by other sectors.

So, what exactly do I think is going to change?

From products to projects

Perhaps the most important shift is also the simplest to understand, customers are no longer shopping for products, they are shopping for and expecting outcomes.

Very few people walk into a store thinking about fixings, timber sizes or paint finishes in isolation. Instead, they arrive with a

project in mind, they want to refresh a room, improve their garden, or tackle a job they have been putting off for months.

Historically, almost all retail stores (with the exception perhaps of IKEA) have been organised around product categories. Logical from an operational and buying perspective but often disconnected from how customers actually think. The store of the future flips this model on its head.

Instead of asking customers to find and assemble a solution themselves, the retailer presents the solution upfront.

Complete project zones begin to replace traditional aisles and shelving. Customers are guided through the process, from inspiration to completion, with everything they need brought together in one place.

The importance of inspiration Modern consumers are continually inspired by and discover ideas on social media, browsing beautifully curated content, and imagining what their homes could become.

The role of the future physical store has to be about bringing that inspiration to life.

This is where I see one of the most visible changes. Stores becoming warmer, more engaging and more lifestyle-driven, not just places to buy products, but places to discover and explore ideas.

Room sets: styled displays and seasonal themes begin to take centre stage more than ever before. Customers can see what a complete project looks like, not just the components that go into it, they can touch materials, compare options and begin to visualise their own spaces.

This shift is particularly important in broadening the appeal of DIY retail. For many consumers, particularly female customers, who are often key decisionmakers in the home, traditional ‘pile it high and sell it cheap’ environments feel uninviting and a more inspirational approach changes that dynamic entirely.

Confidence is the new currency

One of the defining characteristics of today’s younger DIY customer is a lack of confidence. Skills that were once passed down through generations are no longer as widespread. Many younger consumers simply haven’t had the exposure to practical tasks that would allow them to feel comfortable tackling projects on their own.

This creates a barrier, but at the same time, it’s a significant opportunity.

The retailers who succeed in the future will be those who help customers feel capable. Not by simplifying the offer to the point of removing complexity, but by supporting customers through it.

This changes the role of the store, and of the people within it. Staff become guides and coaches rather than simply transactional assistants, the focus shifts from “what do you need?” to “what are you trying to achieve?”

Workshops, demonstrations and digital content all play an increasingly important role. Step-by-step guidance, whether delivered in person or digitally, becomes a key part of the shopping journey. The aim is no longer just to sell a product, but to enable a project.

Because when a customer completes one successful project, they are far more likely to start another, and your store will become the first place they choose to visit.

A seamless digital and physical journey

The starting point for most DIY journeys is no longer the store, it’s their phone. Customers arrive having already done their research, they have seen ideas online, compared options and prices, and often have a clear sense of the end result, even if they are not entirely sure how to achieve it.

This means that it’s essential that the store integrates seamlessly with the digital journey that precedes it.

We are in a world where the boundaries between online and offline retail have disappeared, customers expect realtime stock information, rapid click and collect services, and the ability to move effortlessly between channels.

In-store technology will increasingly support this. Digital screens extending the

range, QR codes linking to project lists, and mobile tools that guide customers through their journey.

But the key is not technology for its own sake, it’s about removing the friction. Making it easier, faster and more intuitive for customers to move from inspiration and idea to execution.

Convenience as the strategy

Convenience has become one of the defining battlegrounds in retail; customers expect speed, simplicity and reliability. Many of today’s customers have grown up with Amazon and their expectations of delivery and convenience are the same, whether they’re shopping for DIY, Grocery or Fashion.

Click and collect is now a baseline expectation, not a differentiator. The focus is shifting to how quickly and how smoothly it can be delivered. Dedicated collection points, improved store navigation, and clearer layouts all contribute to a better experience.

At the same time, stores must cater for different types of missions, some customers want to get in and out quickly, while others want to browse, explore and be inspired.

Rethinking range and space

Today’s customers are often overwhelmed by too much choice, when what they are really looking for is clarity and confidence that they are making the right decision.

This is leading to a more curated approach both in-store and online. Fewer, but better products, clearer good-better-best options and more emphasis on quality and relevance rather than sheer breadth and volume.

In the future store, physical space will be rebalanced, with less focus on offering endless variations and a greater priority given to showcasing solutions and creating experiences. Digital tools can then extend the range beyond what is physically present. It is a shift from quantity to quality, from storage to storytelling.

The evolution of garden retail

Steve Collinge

Alongside DIY and Home Improvement, garden retail is undergoing its own transformation. What was once seen as seasonal and task-driven is increasingly becoming lifestyle-led and all year-round.

For more and more consumers, the garden is no longer just a space to maintain, it’s an extension of the home, a place to relax, entertain and express personal style.

This continues to drive growth in categories such as outdoor living, furniture and décor and it’s also creating opportunities to develop more experiential environments, incorporating elements such as cafés and leisure spaces.

At the same time, the focus on sustainability and biodiversity is reshaping how gardens are presented and understood. The future garden centre is as much about inspiration and enjoyment as it is about plants and products.

The store as a community space

One of the enduring strengths of the Irish Hardware Sector has been its connection to local communities and that strength becomes even more important in the future.

As retail becomes more digital, physical spaces must offer something that simply cannot be replicated online, connection, interaction and shared experience.

Workshops, events and partnerships all help to position the store as more than just a place to shop, it becomes a place to learn, to engage, and to feel part of something local.

This not only drives footfall, but builds loyalty and deeper, more meaningful relationships with customers.

Looking ahead

Taken as a whole, these changes represent a significant shift in the role of the future DIY and garden store. The retailer moves from product supplier to project enabler, from a simply transactional space to an inspirational environment and from a standalone channel to an integrated experience.

For retailers, the opportunity is clear, build on existing strengths - trust, community and expertise - while embracing new ways of engaging customers.

Steve Collinge is an international speaker, influencer, retail commentator and executive editor of Insight DIY. You can follow Steve on LinkedIn and X.

Inside the Retail Engine

If you want to get what you've never had, you need to do what you've never done

My name is Fiorella Origlia, I'm French. You might have come across The Retail Revolution in the Jan/Feb issue of The Hardware Journal. I started my career right at the heart of the DIY retail world, not as an outsider looking in but deep inside the machine.

Inside the Retail Engine: ADEO

I joined ADEO, the group behind Leroy Merlin, Bricoman and Weldom, as a Hardware Buyer. Fresh out of my Master's Degree, I was thrown straight into the reality of large-scale retail decisionmaking. And it was intense.

I was handed the full fasteners range. Thousands of products. High-stakes business impact. Sixteen business units across multiple countries, each with different logistics models and sourcing areas. For a young buyer, it was both overwhelming and exhilarating, a masterclass in retail strategy under fire.

From day one, I faced the questions that define retail success:

– How do you make sense of a range this complex?

– How do you prioritise when everything feels critical?

– How do you make choices that won't just work today, but will still be right in three to five years?

Those years shaped the foundation of my retail knowledge. I learned that buying decisions are never just transactional or individual. They're strategic. They're structured. They're tied to a category vision and a carefully orchestrated network of colleagues.

At ADEO, my role was to negotiate mainly with buying offices. We orchestrated private label tenders and market allocations. Direct supplier negotiations? They happened, but usually under time pressure or strategic urgency.

And that's when it hit me: most suppliers only see a tiny fraction of the retail picture.

Retail From Another Lens: Kingfisher

To go deeper, I joined Kingfisher's EMEA Buying Office as a Product Sourcing Manager for Tools and Hardware. Different company. Different structure. Different strategic culture.

But closer to suppliers than ever before, acting as the bridge between group strategy and execution. In my first year alone, I visited nearly 30 suppliers.

The experience was as challenging as it was rewarding. Sourcing at that level demands relentless negotiation skills, resilience and razor-sharp strategic clarity.

I also went through The Complete Skilled Negotiator by The Gap Partnership, an intense, uncomfortable, transformative program

that pushes you to a completely different level of negotiation mastery.

Around the same time, I started teaching international negotiation at university. Someone once told me: "When you start teaching a subject, that's when you truly master it." They were right. Teaching forced me to turn instinct into method, experience into framework.

The Supplier Side: A Wake-Up Call

After years in retail, I made the leap to the supplier side. It seemed logical, I thought I could bridge the gap from within. But reality hit fast. I later realised this wasn't about one company, but a pattern I recognised across many supplier organisations.

Inside supplier organisations, I saw a different kind of chaos: – Strategies diluted by internal silos – Objectives fragmented across departments – Commercial teams overwhelmed, running tenders without clear methodology or strategy, starved for time and resources.

The ambition was there. The expertise was there. But the structure wasn't.

I realised something crucial: bridging the supplier-retailer gap from inside a supplier organisation is nearly impossible. Not because people aren't talented or motivated, but because internal dynamics constantly sabotage deep transformation. That was my turning point.

Why I Created LaRévolution

After countless conversations with suppliers and months of deep reflection, I made a decision that changed everything: step outside the system entirely and create LaRévolution. It wasn't a rash move. It was inevitable.

Because here's what I kept seeing, over and over again: Talented supplier teams working incredibly hard. Investing in product development. Building relationships. Showing up at every meeting. Doing everything they thought they were supposed to do. And still struggling to perform with major retailers.

The problem wasn't effort. It was understanding. LaRévolution exists because of one simple, undeniable truth: There's a structural gap between retailers and suppliers. And someone needs to fill it. Not with more sales pressure. Not with flashier presentations or bigger trade budgets. Not with promises of volume or threats of delisting.

With method. With systems. With strategy. With mindset. Fixed from the roots. Retailers and suppliers think differently, yet they share the same goal: serving the customer.

Same industry. Different languages. Different priorities. Different rhythms. Same goal.

And in that gap? Missed opportunities. Frustration on both sides. Relationships that never reach their potential. I saw this gap from the inside at ADEO and Kingfisher. I saw it again from the supplier side. And I realised something critical: You can't fix this gap from inside a supplier organisation, neither from inside a retailer organisation.

Not because people don't care. But because the objectives get diluted. Personal career ambitions mix with commercial targets. Internal politics slow down real transformation. The urgency to "hit the number this quarter" overrides the patience needed to build sustainable retail partnerships.

The system itself gets in the way of the solution. Today, as a Retail Strategy Partner for DIY suppliers, I help suppliers understand retail the way retailers actually live it and translate that understanding into concrete, structured strategy. I'm not a former retail buyer selling access to old contacts. I'm the one who fixes the roots on the supplier side. The strategic partner who's lived on both sides and knows exactly what needs to be rebuilt from the ground up.

What I Believe

I believe, deeply, that retail success isn't reserved for the biggest brands or the strongest private label players. Any supplier can succeed in retail. With the right system, the right method, and the right strategy.

That's not motivational talk. That's what I've seen work.

Success doesn't come from luck. It comes from:

– Understanding how retailers think and decide

– Structuring your organisation to be retail-ready

– Aligning sales, sourcing, supply chain, and strategy around a unified retail vision

– Building systems that drive long-term performance, not just short-term wins

– Creating real value for retailers in ways that get noticed, remembered and rewarded

Retail has evolved. Buyers' roles have evolved. The complexity has multiplied. But too many supplier organisations are still operating with outdated reflexes, relying on relationships and charm instead of method, on gut feeling instead of structured strategy. There are deep, structural issues inside supplier organisations that must be addressed if they want to perform sustainably with major retailers, they aren't small tweaks. This is foundational work. This is about transformation, not tactics.

Today, I regularly work with CEOs, Sales Directors and Key Account Managers who've spent as many years in this industry as I've been alive. But experience and perspective aren't the same thing and I've had the unusual advantage of seeing the entire game from both ends of the pitch.

Inside the Retail Engine

What I've Done Over the Last Year to Help the Industry

Since launching LaRévolution, I've built multiple platforms with one clear mission: to tell suppliers what no one has ever properly explained to them.

The Book: The Retail Revolution gathers all the essentials suppliers should know to perform with retailers but were never taught. It's packed with actionable tools to build evidence-based decisions, not gut-feeling guesses.

The Podcast: The Retail Revolution Diary shares weekly updates, conversations and thoughts from the front line as a Retail Strategy Partner, giving suppliers the insider perspective they've been missing.

An AI Twin: A digital version of my expertise that answers suppliers' questions 24/7, making strategic retail knowledge accessible whenever they need it.

YouTube Channel & LinkedIn: Bite-sized, actionable insights suppliers can apply immediately, the kind of practical guidance that bridges theory and reality.

Every piece of content I create exists to fill the knowledge gap that's been holding suppliers back for decades.

But beyond content, I've worked hands-on with a dozen suppliers across different types of projects:

– Deep transformative strategy work, restructuring their entire retail approach from the ground up

– Tender preparation, building winning submissions with method and strategic precision

– Workshops, aligning internal teams around a single, clear retail vision

– Negotiation support, helping clients reach better outcomes with major retailers

The question isn't whether the gap exists It's whether we're willing to fix it properly.

I look forward to exploring these topics further in The Hardware Journal in the months ahead!

Author Fiorella Origlia is contactable by email at fiorella@la-revolution.fr or visit www.la-revolution.fr or on Linkedin: Fiorella Origlia. Her book 'The Retail Revolution' is available from Amazon

Fiorella Origlia tells suppliers what no one else will. Ex-buyer at ADEO and Kingfisher, she now helps DIY suppliers crack the retail code through LaRévolution, working strategically, structurally, from the roots up. Author. Podcaster. Retail Strategy Partner. Based in France, transforming suppliers worldwide.

What I’ve learned helping small businesses make digital work

I’ve been working with Lean for most of my working life, although it wasn’t always called Lean. Earlier in my career it went by names like Total Quality Management and Just-InTime. The terminology changed, but the direction never really did. The goal was always to do work more efficiently, reduce waste, and get more value from the same resources. Whether on a factory floor, in a yard, or behind a trade counter, the focus was on improving flow and making work easier for people. That’s why Lean is still as relevant today as it ever was. What has changed is the nature of work itself, and that has changed how Lean needs to be applied.

Lean has traditionally been associated with tools such as process mapping, standard work, visual management, and continuous improvement workshops. These tools still matter. They are effective at helping businesses see waste and understand how work actually flows. But the day-to-day reality of running a business today looks nothing like it did when Lean first emerged. Administrative effort has grown significantly. Information now moves digitally rather than physically. A large proportion of waste sits not in the yard or warehouse, but in emails, spreadsheets, repeated data entry, and manual decision-making.

To stay effective, Lean has had to change how it is delivered. Modern Lean doesn’t replace traditional Lean thinking; it builds on it. The principles are the same, but the tools available to apply them have expanded. Digital systems, automation, and AI allow businesses to move beyond simply making work more efficient and instead completely remove large elements of manual work.

At its core, Lean has always been about maximising value while minimising waste. Traditionally, that meant identifying nonvalue-adding steps and improving the way necessary work was carried out. In practice, this led to clearer processes, better handovers, and heavy reliance on spreadsheets. While spreadsheets delivered genuine improvements, they also introduced a ceiling. Processes became leaner, but still depended on people manually moving data, checking information, and remembering agreed steps. As people become used to legacy systems, they are rarely revisited, even as new ways of improving workflows became available.

Modern Lean starts by asking a more fundamental question: does this work need to exist at all?

A good example of this can be seen in how small construction companies manage materials quotes and orders from builders providers. Historically, this process was very manual.

JOHN O`SHANAHAN Consultant, LeanBPI

Prices were gathered by phone or email, written into notebooks or spreadsheets, compared manually, and then re-entered to place orders. Costs were often allocated to projects later, requiring further checking and more data entry. Traditional Lean improvements focused on streamlining these steps, standardising how quotes were recorded and reducing errors. These changes delivered significant gains, but the core work still existed.

In a modern digital Lean setup, the same process looks very different. Supplier quote PDFs can be fed directly into an AI-enabled system. The system reads the documents using Optical Character Recognition (OCR) extracts the relevant details, and converts them into structured materials orders. Pricing is captured accurately, and material costs can be allocated against the related projects at time of ordering. What once required multiple people and repeated data entry now happens seamlessly in the background.

This shift doesn’t just reduce effort; it changes the nature of work. Large amounts of basic, repetitive activity such as keying data and copying information between systems are removed. The role of admin evolves from operational processing to supervision and control. One person can oversee multiple automated flows, monitoring for exceptions and stepping in only where an experienced person's judgement is needed. A little like self-service checkouts in our supermarkets, technology handles routine work while staff focus on resolving issues and adding value.

This is the real distinction between traditional Lean and modern Lean. Traditional Lean improves how work is done and delivers incremental gains. Modern Lean redesigns the system so unnecessary work disappears altogether, while also adding new capability. In this example, projects gain real-time visibility of committed costs, purchasing data becomes more accurate, and reporting improves without adding extra workload.

Lean is no longer just about doing things better; it’s about doing less work. The principles that shaped Lean still hold true, but modern tools have opened up a new frontier in what improvement looks like. By combining Lean thinking with digital and automation, businesses can remove work at the source and allow people to focus on what really matters. That’s where Lean is headed next.

For further information contact John O'Shanahan at joshanahan@leanbpi.ie, ph. 087 7444 887 or visit www.leanbpi.ie

IAN CRADDOCK

Business Development Manager, Fexco International Payments

How Fexco International Payments can help your business,

Established over 40 years ago, Kenneth Hodgins Interiors is a family-owned furniture retail business based in Sandyford, Co. Dublin. The company retails a carefully selected range of leading furniture brands, such as Cattelan Italia, Collins & Hayes, Fama, Stressless, Skovby, Tempur, Harrison, King Koil and Odearest.

The Challenge

Kenneth Hodgins Interiors sources and buys its furniture from several high-end suppliers in the UK. Paying in pounds sterling comes with challenges.

For Accounts Manager Jo Reilly, memories of Brexit-driven swings in the pound remain sharp, and even modest volatility between order and delivery can materially change costs and margins for the business.

The company recognised early that sterling exposure had to be hedged if they were to protect margins on long lead-time orders. Jo Reilly commented “There is a lead time of 12 to 14 weeks on most orders, so we cannot afford surprises in the final cost. By the time carriage and other charges are added, even a small move in sterling can make a real difference. We need certainty that the sterling we lock in will cover everything when the invoice falls due”

“However, one payments provider made currency hedging more complex than it needed to be. Booking forward contracts involved heavy paperwork and repeated follow ups. The process was slow, intrusive, and more expensive than expected. What should have been a risk management tool would become an operational burden”.

The Solution

The company contacted Fexco International Payments to discuss managing its currency risk in a more cost-effective and seamless manner.

Kenneth Hodgins Interiors was assigned a dedicated account manager who analysed the company’s sterling payments. Having talked through the advantages and disadvantages of the various hedging options available, the company decided that a “window” or “open” forward would be the most appropriate strategy. This allowed Kenneth Hodgins Interiors to agree a euro-sterling exchange rate up-front. The company could then draw down an agreed amount of sterling at any time within a defined start/end date at the pre-agreed exchange rate, giving flexibility alongside rate protection.

“The open forward option suited us perfectly. We could lock in the rate but still use the sterling as costs landed, which took a lot of pressure out of managing payments week to week”, added Jo. “The forward contract execution process with Fexco International Payments was very simple”.

“Unlike with the other provider we were using, no personal guarantees were required. Our account manager guided us through the entire process. Everything is settled same day, and our suppliers receive the correct amount each time.”

The Benefits

Kenneth Hodgins Interiors now knows, with confidence, what it will be paying its UK suppliers two to three months ahead of settlement. That certainty has transformed cashflow planning and removed guesswork from pricing decisions.

Sterling risk is actively managed, and the Accounts Manager no longer worries about whether exchange rate swings will inflate costs between order and delivery. Forward contracts ensure that payments will cover supplier invoices, carriage, and associated costs when they fall due.

For Jo Reilly the benefits are clear: “The team at Fexco International payments is so proactive and nothing is beyond them when it comes to resolving payment issues. Managing currency risk no longer distracts from day-to-day operations. What could have been a complex and time-consuming process is now straightforward, fast, and cost-effective. For a retailer operating on tight margins, that clarity and control makes a measurable difference.”

How Fexco Can Help Your Business

Killorglin-based Fexco International Payments provides a seamless and cost-effective foreign currency payment solution for businesses seeking to optimise their cross-border transactions. Through its innovative payments platform and extensive global banking network, Fexco offers:

– Access to over 165 currencies and payments to nearly 200 countries

– Competitive exchange rates and reduced FX costs compared to traditional banks

– Fast, secure, and transparent transactions that protect business margins

As a first step, SMEs should request dual-currency invoices from their international suppliers and compare rates. Once this information is available, Fexco can help businesses determine the most cost-effective payment option and ensure they make savings on FX transactions.

For further information please contact Ian Craddock, Business Development Manager, Fexco International Payments, Mobile: 087 9094392, email icraddock@fexco.com

www.fexco.com/payments-and-fx/international-payments/

Business Support

Transforming payment processes across Ireland’s Hardware Sector

Facing the Challenges of Modern Retail

The hardware, building providers, and DIY sectors are facing a host of challenges. As well as the difficulty of attracting and retaining skilled staff, businesses are dealing with the impact of rising costs, including the National Minimum Wage increase and Pay Related Social Insurance (PRSI). These pressures are making it crucial to find innovative solutions that enhance both staff and customer experiences.

Staff on the shop floor are under constant pressure to deliver a good service, all while managing the complexities of cash and payment handling - a process that is time-consuming and can also be prone to errors and security issues. In response, many businesses are turning to technology to streamline operations and support their teams.

Payment Acceptance & Cash Handling: A Persistent Pain Point

Manual cash handling and payment acceptance, whether at the counter or in the back office, exposes builders providers, hardwares and DIY businesses to human error and heightened security risks. The traditional (manual) approach can put employees under pressure and distract them from providing the best experience for the customer, ultimately impacting overall business efficiency.

Given these realities, businesses are looking to:

– Minimise risks and cash losses

– Improve in-store security and efficiency

– Increase employee productivity

– Enhance the customer experience

– Encourage staff retention and increase job satisfaction

Automated Cash Management & Payment Acceptance: The Way Forward

To address these issues, automated cash management is a game-changing solution. These solutions improve accuracy and efficiency and also free up staff to focus on value-added activities, enhancing job satisfaction. Automated solutions can support both front of house payment points and back office operations, connecting all cash and payment processes for maximum impact.

For businesses in the sector with multiple tills or payment points, a portfolio of cost-effective solutions is available designed to cater for any retail environment, including those with limited space. By optimising the number of devices required and centralising cash handling and payment acceptance, a business can save valuable time and reduce operational costs.

A consultative approach which considers customer volume, cash turnover, and payment acceptance preference can enable businesses to identify which solution best fits their needs. The result is a customised payment system that supports overall business goals and maximises return on technology investment.

Connecting Front of House and Back Office

Automated cash management is not just for front of house. In the back office, these solutions streamline reconciliation, speed up start and end of day processes and simplify cash preparation for lodgement. Businesses can choose between standalone back office devices or fully integrated ‘closed loop’ systems that link front and back office operations. This approach increases productivity and security, allowing staff to dedicate more time to enhancing the customer experience.

Success in Practice

Ruairi Harpur, General Manager at Wallaces of Wellingtonbridge, shares his experience of installing a cash management solution"Installing GLORY's cash automation devices for our front of house payment points has been transformative. We now have a payment device for managing cash across multiple tills and we have a completely secure, accurate, and cost-effective cash handling solution which has increased staff productivity and minimised our cash losses.

Our staff are happy with this quick, easy to use payment solution, and our start and end of day processes have also significantly improved as we now save time daily on balancing tills."

Looking Ahead

As the retail landscape continues to evolve, adopting automated cash management or payment acceptance technology will be critical for all businesses in our sector aiming to stay competitive, improve staff morale, and deliver superior customer experiences. The journey begins with seeking expert advice and exploring tailored solutions that align with your specific needs.

From independent retailers and large DIY chains - GLORY Ireland is a trusted partner for businesses seeking to save time and money on their payment acceptance and cash handling processes, while significantly improving staff productivity and operational efficiency.

For more information on how to improve your cash handling processes or payment acceptance - whether in front of house or back office - and enhance your customer offering, contact Donal Clavin, Sales Manager at GLORY Ireland, donal.clavin@ie.glory-global.com or call +353 87 332 9653

ISEULT MCLAUGHLIN Director, Tactical Talent

The recruitment conversation everyone was having at The Hardware Show

Vinny and I spent time walking the floor at The Hardware Show, catching up with long-standing clients, meeting new businesses and taking the temperature of the industry.

Many of our conversations with businesses centred on recruitment.

Some companies are struggling to find experienced candidates. Others are trying to figure out how to attract younger talent. Many simply feel that hiring in the sector has become much tighter in recent years. Because we recruit exclusively within the Hardware and Building Materials sector, we have a clear view of how the talent market moves across the industry.

From that perspective, a few themes from the show stood out.

“We’ve Been Advertising for Months and Nothing Good Is Coming Through”

This was probably the most common frustration we heard. From our side of the recruitment market, it is not surprising.

When we map talent across the sector, the majority of strong candidates are already well embedded in their roles. They are running territories, managing key accounts or leading teams. They are not actively browsing job boards.

In our experience, around 70-80% of successful hires in the industry come from candidates who were not actively planning to move.

In a specialist industry like hardware and building materials, the best candidates rarely apply for jobs. They get approached about them.

“We’re Meeting Candidates, But They Don’t Understand the Industry”

Another conversation we had repeatedly at the show centred on industry familiarity. Hardware and Building Materials is a

specialist environment. Routes to market are unique, product ranges are often technical and merchant relationships take time to develop.

However, when this concern comes up with clients, it often leads to a broader discussion about where talent can realistically come from. If every company tries to hire exclusively from the same small pool of experienced industry candidates, the talent market quickly becomes very tight.

That is why we often encourage businesses to think slightly wider and consider adjacent industries where the commercial skillset translates well.

The Industry Doesn’t Have a Career Problem - It Has a Visibility Problem. Another question we heard several times over the weekend was how to attract younger people into the sector. From our perspective, the industry does not have a career problem.

It has a visibility problem.

When we look at the sector through a recruitment lens, we see commercially sharp people building strong careers, managing major accounts and running teams and territories with significant responsibility. Experienced sales professionals in the industry frequently earn packages well into the €70,000€90,000 range once bonuses are included.

The opportunity is there. The sector simply needs to tell that story more loudly. In addition to offering strong packages, the Hardware sector is as robust now as it’s ever been. In a country already in the midst of a housing crisis, Ireland’s population projections mean that we will need to continue building properties for many years to come. This is an industry that can offer long-term career opportunities with home-grown businesses.

Recruitment Is Becoming a Strategic Issue

If the conversations at this year’s Hardware Show were anything to go by, recruitment will remain one of the defining challenges for the industry in the years ahead.

But the companies who consistently hire well tend to approach it differently. They build relationships with talent before vacancies appear. They understand where strong candidates are likely to come from. And increasingly, they partner with a specialist recruitment agency like Tactical Talent that understands the industry, has a wide network within it and can significantly accelerate the hiring process.

In a competitive market, that level of industry insight can make a real difference.

About Tactical Talent

Tactical Talent Recruitment is Ireland’s only recruitment specialist dedicated exclusively to the Hardware and Building Materials Industry. For over a decade we have worked with manufacturers, distributors and merchants across Ireland to hire commercial leaders, sales professionals and operational talent who understand the sector and can make an immediate impact.

As the only recruitment partner to Hardware Association Ireland, we work closely with the industry to support companies in solving one of their biggest challenges: finding and attracting the right people.

If recruitment is on your agenda this year, we are always happy to have a conversation.

Contact Vinny Kelly or Iseult McLaughlin on 01 9079192, visit www.tacticaltalent.ie, email info@tacticaltalent.ie

Hybrid adhesives & sealants: They’re the game-changer

Let’s face it - no one’s got time to mess around with three different tubes when one will do the job. That’s where Hybrid Adhesives & Sealants come in.

They’re the game-changer that’s been taking over building sites across Ireland and the UK.

What’s the story with these Hybrids?

They aren't your average adhesives or sealants. Hybrids mix the best bits of silicones, acrylics, PUs, and epoxies - giving you serious bonding power, flexibility, durability, and chemical resistance all in one!

You can use them to stick, seal, fill, repair and get the job done - no swapping products, no messing about.

Why the Trade Is All In

In the last five years, hybrids have exploded onto the scene. Across Ireland, tradespeople are sealing windows, bonding floors, fixing roofs and much much more - all with one product.

Hybrids are

– Tough as nails - hold strong in any conditions

– Flexible - ideal for movement joints

– Weatherproof and UV-resistant

– Time-saving - one tube, multiple jobs

– Clean and easy to use - less waste, less hassle

Bottom line: they work, and that’s why the demand’s gone through the roof.

Boom in Builders Merchants

Merchants love them too. Less shelf clutter, easier to recommend and great value.

According to GFK research, hybrids are the fastest growing segment in adhesives and sealants in the Builders Merchant market - doubling in size since 2019.

And it’s not slowing down Why? Because tradespeople demand stuff that works, and hybrids deliver every time.

The New Name to Know: OB1®

Now there’s a new player in town - OB1® Multi-Surface

Construction Sealant & Adhesive. One of the fastest-growing hybrid in the UK, now hitting the Irish market hard. What makes it different?

– Sticks to just about anything - even underwater

– Works on lead, PVC, glass, mirrors, fibreglass, timber - you name it

– No smell, no shrink, no cracking

– Paintable and food-safe

– UV, fungal and bacteria resistant

– Withstands temps from -40°C to +120°C

OB1 offers the ultimate bonding and sealing experience

Every saving counts, whether you’re quoting for a big job or trying to stay profitable on smaller projects. OB1 lets you cut your costs without cutting corners - and in today’s market, that’s gold. You’ll find OB1 in most good builder and DIY merchants.

– Hybrids Are Here to Stay

– Hybrids are only going one way - UP.

– Builders Merchants are loving them, and tradespeople are saving time and money every day.

If you're not stocking or using hybrids yet - it's time to get on board.

Find out more at www.ob1original.com

Make the switch to Hippo Pro3 today

Are your customers still buying multiple products to complete one job? Hippo Pro 3 gives them a better solution and gives you a smarter product to stock.

Tembe`s flagship 3-in-1 hybrid formula works as an adhesive, sealant and filler, meaning one product can replace several lines on the shelf. For merchants that means simplified stock management, better shelf efficiency, and a product that solves multiple trade needs.

Along with helping tradespeople save time, money and van space, Hippo Pro 3 delivers outstanding performance across all three applications, making it a product your customers will keep coming back for.

Here’s why Hippo Pro 3 deserves a place on your shelves…

– Amazing adhesive grab strength - securely bond heavy items

– Stick virtually anything to anything

– Will not stain or corrode materials

– Fast drying time - touch dry from just 12 minutes

– Resistant to weather, extreme temperatures, mould & chemicals

– Can be painted

– Does not contain solvents, isocyanates or phthalates

– CE certified & tested

– vailable in a wide range of colours

Hippo Pro 3 is also available with a free metal display unit (subject to order value), giving merchants a ready-made solution to help drive in-store sales.

Designed specifically for trade counter environments, the durable metal stand presents the product clearly and professionally, maximising shelf impact and improving visibility where it matters most. The optimised layout helps customers quickly understand the 3-in-1 adhesive, sealant and filler proposition, encouraging impulse purchases and increasing product engagement. It’s a simple way to enhance your display, attract attention at the trade counter and help Pro 3 sell itself.

In stock and available from their Dublin warehouse for delivery within 72 hours, make the switch to Pro3 today.

For all enquiries, contact Ireland Sales Director Tony Whitetony.white@tembediy.co.uk

Tec7 announce the launch of new silicone sealant

For many years, tradespeople have asked Tec7 for a silicone sealant to be added to the range - and for many years, Tec7 have held back. As the MS polymer specialist, the brand built its reputation on hybrid technology that reshaped how professionals mount, bond and seal. Over their 24 years in the Irish market, Tec7 MS Polymers have transformed the sealant and adhesive sections of merchant stores. Despite this, some tradespeople still retain a personal preference for silicone technology for certain applications. Tec7 were aware of this demand, but until very recently silicone technology could not support a product that met Tec7’s strict standards on health, environmental impact, breadth of use and, perhaps most importantly, performance.

The problem was not finding uses for silicone but avoiding compromise. Some silicones are sold as “multi-purpose”, yet in reality they often fall short of the technical standards required across different applications, especially when you look closely at their approvals. XealPro changes that. After years of development by Tec7’s specialist chemists and R&D team, working to push alkoxy technology to a new level, they have created a 4th-generation neutral-cure alkoxy silicone engineered as a genuinely universal product that can replace almost every conventional silicone on the shelf. Crucially, it carries all four key CE classifications - facade, glazing, sanitary and pedestrian walkways - so one cartridge can follow the job from façade detail to bathroom finish and movement joint.

This universality is matched by serious attention to hygiene. In wet rooms and high-use sanitary spaces, ordinary silicones can discolour, harbour mould and lose their clean appearance. XealPro is formulated by Tec7’s R&D experts to achieve the highest class of resistance to mould and bacterial growth, making it particularly suited to bathrooms, showers,

commercial kitchens, changing areas and other hygiene-critical spaces. On top of this, XealPro is ISEGA food safe certified, a level of approval rarely seen among silicones on the market, further underlining its suitability for areas where cleanliness and hygiene are non-negotiable. This combination of approvals helps joints stay cleaner for longer, even under constant moisture, regular cleaning and occasional food contact.

In day-to-day use, XealPro delivers no-odour, MEKO - and oxime-free curing with no shrinkage and long-term durability on site. The neutral cure system ensures strong adhesion on most building materials, including sensitive surfaces such as natural stone, mirrors, sanitaryware and kitchen worktops. A focused professional colour range - transparent, white, anthracite, concrete grey and light grey - covers the majority of typical installations.

With XealPro, a market leader in hybrid sealants and adhesives now brings a truly universal, top-tier silicone to the marketcompleting the range so every end-user has a Tec7 solution for every sealing job.

If you are interested in stocking XealPro contact Contech Building Products or your local Contech Technical Sales Representative. Email info@contechbuildings.ie or call (01) 629 2963

Soudal airtightness & sustainable home upgrades

Airtightness is becoming one of the most important elements in modern home retrofits, especially as homeowners look for ways to reduce energy consumption, improve comfort, and increase the overall efficiency of their homes. While insulation and window upgrades are often the first steps, the real performance gains happen when the building envelope is properly sealed. Soudal’s Airtightness range plays a key role in this process, offering professional-grade solutions that support long-term sustainability and energy savings.

Soudafoam Window & Door SWS

The Core of a Perfect Seal

Every high-performance window or door installation starts with a reliable foam. Soudafoam Window & Door SWS is specifically developed for sealing window and door frames, delivering strong adhesion, excellent thermal insulation, and long-lasting flexibility. It fills gaps around frames with precision, preventing heat loss and eliminating drafts, an essential step for maximising the performance of upgraded windows and doors, including those installed under available home energy grants.

SWS Inside & Outside Extra Tapes

Airtight Inside, Weatherproof Outside

To complete the installation, SWS Inside & Outside Extra Tapes provide a professional dual-layer seal. The internal tape controls vapour diffusion, while the external tape offers robust weather protection. Together, they create a durable, movement-tolerant seal that keeps the building envelope performing at its best. These tapes help ensure that window and door upgrades deliver their full energy efficiency potential.

Soudatight LQ & Soudatight SP

Seamless Airtightness for Complex Areas

For larger surfaces, junctions, or irregular shapes, Soudal’s liquid membranes offer a fast and reliable solution. Soudatight LQ and Soudatight SP form seamless, elastic airtight layers that adapt to any substrate. The system is Passive House certified, reinforcing its suitability for high-efficiency, lowenergy homes and supporting homeowners aiming for more sustainable building standards.

Airtightness as a Key Part of Sustainable Retrofits

Energy efficiency upgrades, such as insulation, window replacements, and door improvements, perform significantly better when paired with proper airtightness treatment. By integrating Soudal’s Airtightness range into retrofit projects, homeowners can reduce heat loss, improve comfort, and maximise the benefits of available grants for windows, doors, and energy-saving measures.

Soudal’s complete airtightness system ensures that every upgrade, whether grant-supported or part of a broader renovation, performs to its full potential delivering long-term energy savings and contributing to a more sustainable, efficient home.

For further information visit www.soudal.ie

TRANSFORM YOUR BATHROOM WITH SIKA TILING SYSTEM

Sika has developed a complete tiling range that covers every step of the process - from surface preparation and waterproofing to tile installation. The system is designed to meet the demanding requirements of wet rooms, delivering exceptional durability and reliability.

n A fully integrated system, delivering reliable installations from start to finish.

n Help reduce the risk of mould growth and water-related damage.

n Compatible with a wide variety of substrates and tile types.

n Engineered for strong bonding, lasting durability, and reliability.

n Easy to use and perfect for everyone—from expert tradespeople to DIY users.

n Guaranteed dryness in every bathroom, shower, or wet room.

Pipelife obtains EPDs for its Qual-Pex Plus+ pipe range

Leading pipe manufacturer Pipelife Ireland has gained Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for its Qual-Pex Plus+ ‘Easy Lay’ pipe range - making them one of the first Irish-made pipes to have independently-verified embodied carbon data.

A high-performance, multi-purpose piping system, Qual-Pex Plus+ is engineered for reliable distribution of hot and cold water, central heating, and underfloor heating, designed to last for a building’s whole life - and therefore reduce the building’s whole life carbon impact. Pipelife’s decision to obtain EPDs for all seven sizes of its Qual-Pex Plus+ pipe range comes as larger developers and public bodies face obligations to calculate and reduce the embodied carbon of buildings.

Conor Manning, Managing Director of Pipelife Ireland said: “Securing EPDs for our entire Qual-Pex Plus+ pipe range reflects our commitment to supporting developers and public bodies as they work to measure and reduce the embodied carbon of buildings. It ensures that Pipelife continues to stand firmly behind our customers as embodied-carbon reporting becomes a compulsory requirement across the industry under new EU directives.”

Irish Green Building Council chief executive Pat Barry congratulated Pipelife, saying: “It is fantastic to see leadership in Irish manufacturers reacting to the imperatives of the EPBD and producing the data that will be needed in the coming years through production of verified EPD. It is particularly exciting to see data for components used in building services as this is one of the largest data gaps in whole life carbon assessment and we need more manufacturers to provide this data.” Policy changes such as the EU taxonomy on sustainable economic activities, the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive

and the 2024 revision of the EU Directive on the Energy Performance of Buildings are placing pressure on building material manufacturers to produce reliable, independently validated data on the embodied carbon of their products.

Meanwhile in September 2025 the Government’s low carbon construction procurement guidelines came into effect - including a requirement to conduct whole life carbon assessments on new buildings above certain budget thresholds, based on a new Life-Cycle Global Warming Potential Calculation Methodology published by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland. The requirement also applies to infrastructure projects above certain budget thresholds.

To enable accurate whole life carbon calculation, productspecific EPDs are the gold standard. The seven Qual-Pex Plus+ EPDs are published on EPD Ireland, a national platform set up by the Irish Green Building Council (IGBC) to enable Irish manufacturers to create EPDs for their products and verify them to Product Category Rules (PCR) created for Ireland. These PCRs provide specific, localised rules for various categories of construction products, enabling meaningful comparison between products on the Irish market.

The EPDs were created to EN 14508+A2 based on life cycle assessments by Dutch experts EcoReview Netherlands, and verified by third party verifier Stephen Forson, who was independently appointed by the IGBC from its panel of highly accredited EPD and LCA experts.

Why whole life carbon matters

The whole life carbon emissions of buildings are responsible for almost 40% of global carbon emissions, with 28% coming from operational energy use, and 11% from embodied carbon, according to the World Green Building Council. Operational carbon emissions are falling due to tightening regulations, the decarbonisation of electricity and fossil fuel boilers being replaced with heat pumps, a cumulative shift which means the emphasis must start to shift to embodied carbon too.

Consequently, embodied carbon has moved from obscurity to centre stage in Irish construction, due to new rules which mandate the calculation of the embodied carbon of buildingsincluding building services and all other construction materials used. While the second building services product of any type to be under the revised Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, it will be mandatory to calculate the whole life carbon of all new buildings of 1000 m2 or more by 2028 - and all new buildings by 2030. Data on the embodied carbon of building services is relatively lacking, with some studies suggesting services can represent anything from 10% to 40% of the whole building total.

While Qual-Pex Plus+ is made from polyethylene, a form of plastic, it has a number of environmental advantages over metal pipes. Compared to metal pipes, it offers significantly lower embodied carbon, it is corrosion resistant and comes with a 50-year guarantee. The Qual-Pex Plus+ EPDs include a 50-year reference service life. Ireland’s whole life carbon calculation methodology sets a reference study period for each building of 50 years - meaning calculations done with Qual-Pex Plus+ will therefore avoid projected emissions from replacement pipes.

WHAT IS WHOLE LIFE CARBON?

It is all of the greenhouse gas emissions produced by a thing - such as a building - across its entire life cycle. It is made up of embodied carbon and operational carbon.

Embodied carbon includes emissions from manufacturing building materials, transport and construction, along with repair, replacement, maintenance and eventual demolition or - preferablycareful deconstruction.

Operational carbon comes from energy and water use during the building’s occupancy.

When you put together embodied carbon and operational carbon, you have whole life carbon.

Wavin plumbing systems offer flexible, reliable solutions for bathroom projects

Bathrooms can be high-pressure environments for installers. Tight spaces, limited access and concealed pipe runs mean plumbing products must be quick to fit, dependable, and practical for both new build and refurbishment. For builders’ merchants, that translates into delivering solutions that help customers deliver a clean finish, first time.

Wavin Hep2O: designed for fast, reliable bathroom installations

Wavin's Hep2O heating and plumbing system is ideal for bathroom installations because it offers fast, tool-free fitting and reliable performance. Its push-fit connection system removes the needs for hot works which is valuable in bathrooms with spatial restrictions. The process is simple: cut the pipe, insert and twist to check, with no specialist equipment required.

A key feature for installers is In4Sure™ joint recognition, which provides a distinctive ‘rumble’ feel when the pipe is fully inserted. That feedback helps ensure the joint is correctly made and supports a consistent, secure connection, particularly helpful when working quickly or in tight, low-visibility areas.

Hep2O’s polybutylene (PB) pipe is also highly flexible, making it easier to route pipework in the confined spaces typical of bathroom projects. It supports efficient runs behind bath panels and vanity units and is practical for running services under floors and through joists where access can be limited. In many layouts, the flexibility can reduce the need for additional fittings and allow for cleaner, more direct pipe routes.

Bathrooms are warm and humid environments, so long-term performance matters, especially for concealed installations. Hep2O is corrosion-free and resistant to limescale build-up, supporting durability and flow over time. For added reassurance, Hep2O pipes and fittings are backed by a 50-year guarantee, key when the pipework is hidden behind walls or under floors and is not something installers want to revisit later.

Noise performance is another consideration in bathrooms, particularly in apartments or where pipework runs through stud walls and between floors. Hep2O helps reduce friction noise, knocking and water hammer, supporting a quieter end result.

For refurbishments and retrofits, Hep2O is also designed to integrate smoothly with existing pipework. It is compatible with copper and other systems and connects easily to bathroom taps and appliances using straightforward solutions such as flexible tap adapters, hand-tighten tap connectors, and straight and bent tap connectors with brass nuts.

New Wavin HepvO: sleek design innovation in waterless traps save time and space

The recently updated Wavin HepvO retains its highperformance silicone seal while delivering an easier, more intuitive installation. A sleeker design, perfect for bathrooms, it features clearly marked directional flow arrows to help installers achieve correct orientation and alignment, particularly in tight spaces or horizontal set-ups.

A hygienic alternative to traditional traps that can lose their water seal through evaporation, siphonage, leakage or movement, HepvO uses a self-sealing elastomeric membrane to perform the same function as a water-filled trap, without the associated drawbacks. This means it’s also an ideal solution for situations of infrequent use such as guest bathrooms or holiday homes.

In addition, by admitting air into the drainage system, HepvO can replace the need for air admittance valves in branch ventilation enabling pipework to be simplified in commercial bathroom or larger domestic bathroom layouts.

HepvO’s space saving in-line design can be installed horizontally or vertically, making it suitable for many bathroom applications. There’s no need to cut into the floorboards under baths and showers saving time and labour and it’s slimline format means shelf space can be maximised in vanity units.

The HepvO range includes 32mm and 40mm valves, running and knuckle adaptors, plus a 32mm tundish kit for use with an unvented hot water storage system and comes with a 15 year guarantee.

Wavin Sales Director Declan Conlon said: The Wavin plumbing range keeps the installer top of mind delivering latest innovations that are fast and easy to install. For merchants, they can be confident in offering their customers flexible, reliable products that suit a multitude of projects, all backed with the peace of mind that the product guarantees deliver.

See www.wavin.ie for more information. ,, ,,

Move to Tallaght marks a significant step forward for Niko

Niko Bathrooms is proud to celebrate one year at its new state-of-the-art showroom in Tallaght, Dublin 24, a space that has quickly become a go-to destination for homeowners, designers, and merchants seeking quality, inspiration, and expert guidance.

Spanning an impressive 500 sq ft, the showroom was designed with one purpose in mind: to give customers the space and freedom to fully explore an unrivalled selection of bathroom solutions under one roof. The move to Tallaght marked a significant step forward for Niko, allowing for a larger display area, improved accessibility, and a more immersive customer experience.

Why the Move?

The decision to relocate was driven by growth and ambition. The expanded showroom enables Niko Bathrooms to showcase a broader range of products - from contemporary furniture and statement baths to premium brassware and designer radiators - all within thoughtfully styled settings. Its convenient Tallaght location

also ensures ease of access for both trade and retail customers.

A Relaxed, Immersive Experience

From the moment customers step inside, they are welcomed into a relaxed and inspiring environment. Unlike traditional showrooms, this space encourages visitors to take their time - exploring fully designed bathroom settings and discovering how collections come together to create a cohesive, personal sanctuary. Customers can experience the tangible quality of Niko products first-hand - opening drawers to feel smooth soft-close mechanisms, touching surfaces, and seeing finishes in natural light. It’s an experience that builds confidence and brings ideas to life.

Expertise You Can Trust

At the heart of the showroom is Niko’s experienced team. With over 10 years of combined expertise in the plumbing industry, customers benefit from knowledgeable, practical advice at every stage of their journey. From initial concepts to final specifications, the team helps navigate both design and technical decisions with ease.

Supporting Merchants & Their Customers

Hardware stores and builders merchants are encouraged to make full use of the Tallaght showroom as a valuable sales tool. Inviting customers to visit allows them to see, feel, and understand the quality of the products, making decision-making easier and more confident. One year on, Niko Bathrooms continues to set the standard - helping customers turn ideas into beautifully realised spaces.

Experience It for Yourself

Whether your customer is planning a full renovation or simply gathering ideas, a visit to the Niko Bathrooms showroom is the perfect place to start. They can step into 500 square feet of inspiration, explore the latest designs, and get expert guidance tailored to their project. Make the call today and see how your next bathroom can come to life. 01 400 0000, Belgard Square North, Tallaght, D24 X8CT.

High performance heating designed for the Irish climate - the Grant Aerona R290

Demand across Ireland is growing for heating technologies that combine high efficiency with straightforward installation and dependable performance. For merchants and installers, the priority is no longer simply renewable heating, but systems that can deliver reliable output in real-world Irish weather conditions, while remaining practical to specify and install.

The Grant Aerona R290 air to water heat pump has been developed with these requirements in mind. Designed specifically for the Irish and UK climate, the next generation Aerona R290 heat pump range combines high efficiency, installer-friendly design and intelligent controls to support modern home heating systems in both new build and retrofit projects.

One of the key measures of heat pump efficiency is the Seasonal Coefficient of Performance (SCOP), which reflects how effectively the system converts electricity into usable heat. Barry Gorman, National Renewables Sales Manager at Grant explains, “The Seasonal Coefficient of Performance expresses how much heat a heat pump can deliver compared with the electricity it consumes. For example, a SCOP of 4 means that for every 1kW of electricity used, the heat pump produces 4kW of heat. Higher SCOP values indicate greater efficiency, as the unit produces more heat for less energy input. In turn, this makes efficiency a critical consideration when specifying systems for new build and retrofit projects.”

Available in five models with outputs ranging from 4kW to 16kW, the Aerona R290 offers flexibility when specifying systems for different homes and heating demands, making it suitable for a wide range of residential applications. Models within the range can achieve A+++ ErP ratings, with SCOPs up to 4.88. The Aerona R290 heat pump is also capable of 75°C flow temperature. However correct system design will ensure that a lower, more efficient flow temperature is utilised.

Another important factor when specifying heat pumps in Ireland is climate suitability. The Aerona R290 range has been designed specifically for the Irish and UK climate and has been rigorously tested to ensure reliable performance throughout the heating season. This focus on real-world operating conditions helps ensure

consistent efficiency and dependable heating performance across a wide range of homes.

Ease of installation was also a key consideration during the development of the Aerona R290 range. Installers have highlighted the simplicity of the system design, including streamlined connections and integrated components which help simplify installation for heating engineers and electricians.

Barry adds, “A key feature of the Aerona R290 heat pump system is the Grant Aerona Smart Controller, which plays an important role in optimising heat pump performance. Using weather compensation, the controller automatically adjusts system output based on outdoor temperatures, helping maintain comfort within the home while ensuring the heat pump operates as efficiently as possible.

In addition to managing heating and hot water schedules, the Aerona Smart Controller can control multiple heating zones and enable installers to access system information through remote monitoring. This allows quicker diagnostics and helps reduce unnecessary callouts.”

Grant continues to support the heating industry through its integrated approach to system design and specification and dedicated aftercare service.

With its combination of high efficiency, climate-specific design and intelligent control through the Aerona Smart Controller, the Grant Aerona R290 heat pump provides merchants and installers with a reliable renewable heating solution suited to homes across Ireland.

Why Stock the Grant Aerona R290

– Strong demand for renewable heating solutions across Ireland

– Five models available (4kW–16kW) covering a wide range of property types

– High efficiency performance supporting modern energy standards

– Designed specifically for Irish and UK climate conditions

– Integrated with the Aerona Smart Controller for improved system performance

– Grant’s technical heating design and specification support

– Onsite technical and aftercare support

Visit www.grant.ie for more information on Grant’s range of innovative heating solutions. Follow Grant on Facebook @GrantIRL, Instagram @grant_irl, LinkedIn @ GrantEngineeringULC and YouTube @GrantEngineeringIE

AHEAD WITH

The Grant Aerona R290

The Grant Aerona R290

AHEAD WITH THE - Designed for the Irish and UK Climate - Innovative Technology - Exceptional Performance - Ultra-Low Noise Levels - Outputs from 4kW – 16kW

- Designed for the Irish and UK Climate - Innovative Technology - Exceptional Performance - Ultra-Low Noise Levels - Outputs from 4kW – 16kW

Trend is committed to reducing the environmental impact of its products

Trend, the well renowned brand in carpentry trade tools and power tool accessories, is committed to reducing the environmental impact of its products through improved design and processes. The re-use of recycled materials reduces the demand for raw materials and helps prevent environmental pollution. In recent years, Trend has carried out a comprehensive review of the packaging used across its product ranges as part of a broader sustainability initiative.

The company’s sustainable packaging strategy focuses on removing plastic from packaging which goes to waste and using materials that are easily recyclable. The first stage of the project involved analysing all fourteen of Trend’s product categories. These include power tools, power tool jigs and accessories, router cutters, saw blades, drilling tools, and various hand tools such as sharpening and measuring equipment. With over 3,400 products, each with different packaging needs, the transition presented a significant challenge.

A major area of focus has been phasing out plastic packaging at both the product and operational levels. At product level, Trend has prioritised several groups for conversion from plastic clamshells to more sustainable cardboard packaging. The first items to

transition were digital measuring tools, followed by the large saw blade range. Other categories that have now moved to cardboard include TCT and PCD circular saw blades, digital measuring tools, pocket hole screws, and diamond sharpening products. To date, more than 270 products have been successfully converted to recyclable carton packaging. Additionally, Trend has introduced recycled-content paper across its paper-based packaging.

At an operational level, Trend has made substantial changes to reduce plastic use in logistics. All pallet shrink wrap now contains a minimum of 30% recycled content and is fully recyclable. The company has reduced reliance on bubble wrap and replaced plastic air bags with paper cushioning. Plastic tape has largely been replaced with gummed paper tape, and pallet strap usage has been reviewed to minimise waste.

Further efficiencies include improved pallet consolidation, new packing workstations for faster and more accurate packing, and additional staff training. Employees have been trained to avoid overpacking, reduce waste, and better understand the environmental impact of packaging decisions.

For further informatiopn visit www.trend-ie.com

Restore: Refill, reuse and renew with every sip

Bluestone Sales & Distribution is excited to introduce Restore; a new collection of premium drinkware designed with sustainability and performance at its core. The Restore range is crafted to help your customer embrace a healthier lifestyle, offering durable bottles and cups that combine both style and functionality. This collection keeps your customer's beverages at the perfect temperature and also aligns with their values, supporting a greener planet with every sip. With an emphasis on long-lasting materials and eco-friendly practices, Restore is the perfect companion for anyone looking to make a positive change in their daily routine.

The design team at Restore have poured their expertise into creating a versatile and visually appealing range that caters to various needs. Whether your customer is headed to work, the gym, or an outdoor adventure, the Restore collection offers a range of shapes, sizes and vibrant colours to match their journey. From sleek water bottles to handy travel mugs, each product is designed to make their hydration experience both efficient and enjoyable. The quality materials used ensure that it can withstand the rigours of their busy lifestyle, making it a reliable partner for years to come.

The Restore collection champions the idea of refilling, reusing, and renewing. With each product built to last, customers will be able to reduce waste while enjoying the superior performance of their drinkware. This collection is about convenience; it’s also about making conscious choices that

positively impact the environment. Every time customers use a Restore bottle or cup, they’re contributing to a sustainable future and reducing they're reliance on single-use plastics. Whether they're sipping their morning coffee or hydrating after a workout, Restore empowers them to make a difference, one refill at a time.

At Bluestone Sales & Distribution, they are proud to offer Restore to their customers, as it reflects their commitment to both innovation and sustainability. This collection delivers on performance, durability, and style without compromise. Perfect for individuals who value both practicality and environmental responsibility, Restore is more than just drinkware, it's a lifestyle choice. With the Restore range, your customer can feel good about their purchases while enjoying a product that works as hard as they do.

For further information contact Darren Shiggins, dshiggins@bluestone.ie, +353 (0)46 94 83100 or visit  www.bluestone.ie

Sustainability in action: Portwest Ireland & the Portwest Planet initiative

Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important consideration for businesses across the hardware and workwear sectors. At Portwest Ireland, this commitment is reflected in the brands and products we supply to our customers every day. In fact, many may be surprised to learn that approximately 80% of the products we offer are Portwest own brand, a global leader in workwear and personal protective equipment.

Portwest’s long-term sustainability programme, Portwest Planet, underpins this partnership. The initiative defines the company’s commitment to reducing environmental impact while promoting a safe, inclusive, and equitable workplace. Trading ethically and operating responsibly are fundamental principles of the Portwest business strategy, aligning closely with the values upheld by Portwest Ireland.

As a supplier, Portwest Ireland is proud to work with industry-leading brands that share a genuine dedication to sustainability. Our approach goes beyond simply supplying products; it extends to responsible sourcing and ethical supply chain practices. The partners we work with adhere to strict standards that ensure sustainable procurement, protect labour rights, and uphold human dignity throughout the production process.

Responsible packaging is another key focus area. By supporting packaging solutions designed to reduce waste and improve recyclability, Portwest Ireland and its partners are helping to minimise the environmental footprint of the products delivered to customers. These efforts form part of a broader commitment to continuous improvement in sustainability practices across the entire supply chain.

By collaborating with brands that prioritise sustainable materials, ethical labour practices, and environmentally conscious manufacturing, Portwest Ireland is contributing to a safer and more sustainable future, not only for workers who rely on high-quality protective clothing, but also for the communities and environments in which these products are made and used.

A strong example of this commitment can be seen in the Portwest WX2 Eco Range, which has been developed with sustainability at its core. The range combines modern workwear design with environmentally responsible materials and manufacturing processes.

Key products include the WX2 Eco Stretch Trousers (CD881) and the WX2 Eco Stretch Coverall (CD891), both designed to offer durability, comfort, and flexibility while

incorporating recycled materials. Another standout product is the EC300 Organic Cotton Recyclable Sweatshirt, which uses organic cotton and has been designed with recyclability in mind.

Beyond these products, the WX2 Eco collection also includes a growing selection of workwear, leisurewear, and all-weather protection garments, providing practical solutions for workers across a variety of industries while supporting more sustainable production methods.

For Portwest Ireland, sustainability is not just a trend but an ongoing commitment. By working with trusted partners and supporting initiatives such as Portwest Planet, the company continues to play its part in driving positive change across the workwear and hardware sectors.

As customer awareness around environmental and ethical responsibility continues to grow, Portwest Ireland remains dedicated to providing products that combine performance, protection, and sustainability, as well as helping businesses and workers make more responsible choices without compromising on quality.

For further information visit www.charleshughes.biz

Elvion Water - Success at The Hardware Show

The team at Elvion Water would like to sincerely thank everyone who visited their stand at the recent Hardware Show 2026. It was a fantastic opportunity to meet builders’ merchants, hardware stores, industry partners, and DIY enthusiasts from across the country. Elvion truly appreciates the time you took to learn more about their water treatment solutions.

The show provided a great platform to introduce Elvion and demonstrate how their compact and beautifully designed systems can transform everyday water into a source of comfort, efficiency, and wellbeing. With over 30 years of experience in water treatment across Ireland and the UK, Elvion combines trusted technology with modern design to deliver reliable solutions for the modern business and home.

Visitors to the stand explored the Elvion product range and saw how their systems are designed with both installers and homeowners in mind. By working through the established hardware and builders’ merchants’ network, Elvion supports trade professionals and DIY customers with products that are simple to install, easy to maintain, and built for dependable performance.

The whole-home Water Softeners attracted strong interest during the show. These compact systems effectively reduce limescale, helping protect plumbing and appliances while improving everyday comfort through softer skin, smoother hair, and cleaner surfaces.

Elvion also showcased their Drinking Water Solutions, which provide clean, fresh, great-tasting water directly from the tap by reducing unwanted tastes, odours, and contaminants such as chlorine, PFAS, and microplastics. In addition, their UV Water Purification systems offer reliable disinfection solutions for single taps or whole homes, helping ensure safe water quality.

At Elvion, they are committed to delivering premium yet affordable water treatment solutions that offer excellent value and long-term reliability.

Elvion looks forward to continuing the conversations and building strong partnerships with merchants, hardware stores and installers across the industry.

Elvion ~ Better Water. Better Living.

Contact Elvion today to learn more about becoming a supplier. Email info@elvionwater.ie, phone 061 210095 / 085 859 8580: Website www.elvionwater.ie

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EPDs Achieved for Pipelife PVC, HDPE & MDPE Product Range

In 2026, your clients are demanding measurable sustainability actions...

We understand the pressures you face to design lower-carbon buildings to meet client and regulatory requirements.

In a world full of misleading green credential claims, there‘s often a lack of clarity when it comes to specifying low-carbon materials.

Pipelife Ireland has secured Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for its PVC, HDPE & MDPE Product Range — the first Irish‑made pipes to feature independently verified embodied‑carbon data.

When you specify Pipelife, you can do so with confidence. Our newly published Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) provide transparent, independently verified data on environmental impacts across the entire product life cycle.

Pipelife supports your sustainability journey with high‑quality products and independently verified data you can trust.

Our EPDs will help you:

• Make informed product selection choices early.

• Justify product selections with verified documents.

• Meet your project sustainability targets.

• Enhance clarity with unambiguous, measurable environmental product data.