Expert Advice from Recent Beacon Award Winners
Beacon Award-winning hardware retailers featured in Hardware Connection have revolutionized the industry with innovative strategies and community-focused practices. These trailblazing retailers showcase how adapting to community needs, investing in employees, modernizing store designs, and leading with vision can transform the hardware retail landscape. Here, we compiled some of their success stories to provide invaluable lessons for any hardware retailer aiming to thrive in a competitive market.
Be adaptable and quickly respond to community needs.
After Hurricane Michael devastated Panama City, Fla., Townsend Building Supply demonstrated remarkable adaptability and community support. In the immediate aftermath of the hurricane, they recognized the urgent need for building materials and quickly set up a makeshift lumberyard to aid in the rebuilding efforts. This temporary solution provided essential supplies to local residents and contractors, helping the community recover more swiftly from the disaster.
Townsend Building Supply’s quick response and commitment to supporting their community didn’t stop there. Recognizing the ongoing demand and the opportunity to better serve the area, they transformed the temporary lumberyard into a permanent store. This strategic move not only filled a critical gap in the market but also reinforced their role as a vital community resource.
—Townsend Building Supply, 2023 Beacon Award for Best New Store
Invest in employees, encourage a sense of ownership.
LaValley Building Supply demonstrated that a strong commitment to employee development is a key factor in their success. They have implemented comprehensive training programs designed to enhance the skills and knowledge of their staff. These programs cover various aspects of the business, from product knowledge to customer service techniques, ensuring that employees are well-equipped to meet customer needs and contribute to the company’s growth.
Moreover, LaValley Building Supply fosters a sense of ownership among its employees by encouraging them to take initiative and contribute ideas for improving operations. This approach not only boosts morale but also creates a more invested and motivated workforce. The company also offers opportunities for career advancement, which helps retain top talent and reduce turnover rates.
—LaValley Building Supply, 2022 Retail Beacon Award
Create a welcoming environment with store design.
Phil and Deanna Cheeves of Hometown Hardware in Senoia, Ga., have demonstrated the significant impact that thoughtful store design can have on customer experience and business success. By incorporating a decompression zone at the entrance, they provide customers with a moment to transition from the outside world into the store environment. This space helps reduce stress and makes customers feel more comfortable and ready to shop.
Additionally, the use of black shelves to highlight products is a strategic design choice. Black shelving creates a striking contrast, drawing attention to the merchandise and making it easier for customers to find and appreciate the products on display. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the store but also improves the overall shopping experience by making navigation intuitive and visually appealing. This thoughtful approach to store design not only boosts customer satisfaction but also increases the likelihood of repeat visits and positive word-of-mouth recommendations.
—Hometown Hardware, 2022 Beacon Award for Best New Store
