Research and Guides

Motivating employees to work hard is a challenge managers will always face because some associates are naturally driven to do their best every day while others lack initiative. Employee appreciation lunches, discounts on products and other recognition methods all boost …

With July Fourth approaching, Americans are flying U.S. flags, finalizing parade and other event plans, buying fireworks and reflecting on their country’s heritage. This patriotic time is ideal for reminding your community of your identity as a local, hometown operation. …

In the July issue of Hardware Retailing magazine, retailers shared which impulse products work for their store and how they merchandise these products to make them more enticing to consumers. To read the full article click here. To get a …

In the July issue of Hardware Retailing magazine, we took an in-depth look at the Home Sweet Home Study, brought to you by North American Hardware and Paint Association and Independent We Stand. The study revealed significant data that impact our industry …

To download a PDF of this story, click here. Visit hardwareretailing.com/shoplocal to download the marketing material presented in this story or download holiday-themed signage.  It’s a Fact: Shopping at Independent Home Improvement Retailers Builds Stronger Communities By Kate Klein, kklein@nrha.org and Sara Logel slogel@nrha.org Main Street used to serve as the go-to …

To remain competitive in today’s home improvement industry, all facets of your business must be top-notch and meet the needs of your market. Offering excellent customer service, while important, will not overcome high prices and a limited product mix. Today’s …

The clothing and work wear category is diverse and provides shoppers a one-stop shop for all of their home improvement needs. In Hardware Retailing‘s June 2015 issue of the magazine, editors spoke with retailers who excel in the clothing category to identify the …

The North American Hardware and Paint Association (NHPA) and Independent We Stand recently announced the findings of their “Home Sweet Home Study,” which examined the economic impact of supporting independent home improvement retailers as opposed to national home center chains. …