Operations

Operating an independent home improvement business is no small feat. Even though your store hours may say one thing, you know that thinking of how to better your operation doesn’t stop, even when the doors are locked and the lights …

Running a successful home improvement business requires a lot of time and energy. In addition to stocking the shelves with innovative new products, you also need to educate your staff, hone your leadership skills and find ways to stand out …

Lowering your carbon footprint isn’t just good for the environment; it could also save you money. Many shoppers may even favor a retailer who shows a desire to recycle or reduce energy usage. Here are 10 ways your business can …

Understanding how your business compares to similar operations is a crucial step in mastering your finances and planning for future success. Each year, the North American Retail Hardware Association (NRHA) surveys thousands of retailers to deliver that knowledge to independent …

Mergers and acquisitions are powerful forces in home improvement retail. The rate by which they’re completed has risen by 58 percent in the U.S. in the last decade, and in 2017, the total of all such deals amounted to $1.9 …

  Finding ways to grow closer to customers is paramount for independent home improvement operators. By establishing a more personal connection with customers, retailers can solidify their reputations as must-shop destinations.  Zach Williams says how home improvement products are marketed, …

If you serve customers who have gas furnaces in their homes, keep this troubleshooting flowchart close to the service counter and the phone. Train your staff on each step of the guide so they are prepared to answer any follow …

As a former general manager of seven home improvement centers, Kim Peffley knows the importance of creating a resourceful team and establishing a culture that supports its success. Now as an NRHA Vision Process consultant, she helps teams understand how …