Handy Hardware Hosts 2015 Spring Market

Wholesale distributor Handy Hardware hosted its spring market this month, offering a buying event focused on delivering great product assortments and values.

Building on the company’s value proposition of “Profit Plus,” Handy Hardware’s markets are intended to help drive success for dealers and vendor partners, according to a press release from the distributor. Handy Hardware, which is based in Houston, hosted the event Jan. 8-10.

Hardware Holdings, a Littlejohn & Co. portfolio company, bought Handy Hardware in 2013. Under the leadership of Craig Cowart, president of the distributor as of October 2014, the company finished 2014 with improved financial results, solid vendor and customer relationships, industry competitive fill rates and a strong inventory position. The company  serves the Texas and southwestern regional markets.

Moving into 2015, Handy Hardware expanded its offering of value brands in key categories such as toilet seats, plumbing repair, heaters, fans, locksets and convenience hardware to enable dealers to meet competitive price points profitably. The distributor’s strong commitment to branded distribution complemented by its value brands was emphasized throughout the market.

The Houston market kicked off with Handy Hardware continuing the theme of offering great deals, featuring areas focused on helping dealers get ready for the spring selling season. Dealers had access to the newest items and planograms, all available at discounts. Handy Hardware also shared industry trends and information concerning the ever-evolving retail market.

“During visits with our customers, I heard two consistent needs: programs that allow them to compete with the big boxes, and better methods for finding help inside their stores,” Craig Cowart says in the press release.

Handy Hardware offered informational sessions addressing both topics.

“We recognize that we have to provide value to our dealers beyond product and price by also helping them manage their business,” Cowart says. “Today, Handy Hardware is a stronger and more capable company and our new ownership structure provides deeper financial resources and greater sourcing and merchandising options for our dealers.”