Handy Hardware Acquisition Drives Sales and Attendance to HDW Market

Hardware Distribution Warehouses, Inc. (HDW) just wrapped up its most successful HDW market since its inception in 1994. The recent acquisition of World and Main Houston, formerly known as Handy Hardware, plus the continued support of HDW’s original dealer base were all contributing factors, according to CEO and president Kenneth R. Beauvais.

“The teamwork from all employees working under extreme deadlines was remarkable,” Beauvais says. “To pull this off in such a short framework of time with the success we experienced was simply amazing. Record sales numbers with an attendance of over 500 dealer stores represented at the market shows that teamwork equals results.”

With more than 450 vendors attending the market, Pat Willey of Belmont Enterprises says “several dealers told [him] that they had traveled six hours by car just to be at the market to participate in the specials offered.”

Additionally, Willey says conversations were able to take place among retailers about HDW.

“We shared with all of the Houston customers our experience with the HDW team and how they help facilitate for their dealers a level of support that helps the dealer not only merchandise their store, but position themselves to compete with the big boxes,” Willey says. “HDW is a customer-focused company, and that level of commitment was very evident.”

The three-day event ran from Friday, Jan. 20 through Sunday, Jan. 22. To kick off the market, Sundance Head, a winner from the singing competition “The Voice”, held a private concert for attendees.

Ritchey Terry of Highland Building Materials in Clarksville, Texas, was formerly a Handy Hardware dealer.

“I was apprehensive when I first got there, having been a Handy dealer for many years,” Terry says. “I’m so glad we attended. We definitely see a turn for the better. I am excited that the company is getting back to hardware management people. I have known many vendors for years and all the vendors were also positive and excited about the change.”

Richie Fulgham, owner and manager of Homefront Home Improvement in Greenwood, Mississippi, has been attending HDW markets since his store opened.

“There were more product offerings than before with some of the best pricing I have seen at any market,” Fulgham says. “When I go to market, I am looking for everyday items at a discounted price, as well as new items I can sell on endcaps. I was able to purchase all of those at the HDW market.”

The market closed Sunday at noon with total cash and prizes being awarded to attending dealers that totaled over $100,000.

HDW is a member-owner of Distribution America, the nation’s largest network of independent hardware and paint sundries wholesale distributors. HDW operates distribution centers in Greenwood, Mississippi, and Shreveport, Louisiana.