‘Join Together for Growth’

Hardware cooperatives are seeing growth in both traditional brick-and-mortar stores and e-commerce platforms. One cooperative, in particular, highlighted the success of its e-commerce platform with 1,900 participating stores. This platform, launched a year ago, has been instrumental in utilizing data to make informed decisions according to Allison Flatjord, the vice president of marketing and ecommerce. With over 1.6 million items in the product information management system, coupled with customer data and AI, the cooperative now has a powerful tool at its disposal.

In terms of vendor partnerships, Do it Best recently introduced Paslode products in their warehouses. Paslode, a renowned manufacturer of cordless and pneumatic nailers, staplers, and fasteners, will now be available to members. This move follows the successful exclusive partnership with BFG Supply Co. last year, offering members access to an extensive catalog of lawn and garden products.

Despite changes in the industry due to mergers and acquisitions, Hardware Hank, the retail brand of United Hardware, is here to stay. Known for its friendly cartoon character mascot, Hardware Hank will continue to serve customers alongside Hardware Hannah without any branding changes.