Talarico Named COO in Latest Do it Best-True Value Integration Move

Do it Best Group has named Nick Talarico chief operating officer as the company takes another step toward integrating operations following its 2024 acquisition of True Value.

The company announced May 13 that Talarico will oversee efforts to strengthen operations, align teams and continue integration work across the Do it Best and True Value organizations while continuing to support the two brands.

The move also marks a significant leadership restructuring within the combined company. Do it Best Group confirmed that Dent Johnson is no longer serving as president of True Value, and the company no longer maintains separate president roles for Do it Best and True Value.

Following the acquisition of True Value in November 2024, Do it Best Group initially stated that the two organizations would continue operating separately while the company evaluated integration opportunities.

“From the beginning, our approach has been deliberate and disciplined,” said Dan Starr, CEO of Do it Best Group. “We knew it was important to first understand the True Value business, support retailers through the transition, and identify where integration would create the most value.”

In a press release, Starr said the company believes it has reached the point where additional operational consolidation makes sense while maintaining separate retail identities.

“We’ve made tremendous progress, and now is the right time to take the next step in operating as one company while continuing to support two powerful national brands,” Starr said.

Talarico previously served as president of Do it Best and has held multiple leadership positions within the company during his career. 

“The majority of our staff, like sales, merchandising, and marketing, have already been integrated and this is how we put together the right team to support two national brands,” said Randy Rusk, communications director for Do it Best Group.

In the new COO role, Talarico will oversee operational alignment efforts across the combined organization.

“Nick is the right leader for this important moment,” Starr said. “He understands our business, our culture, and the needs of independent home improvement retailers.”

Talarico said the company’s focus remains centered on independent retailers and operational performance.

“As we continue bringing our team and operations together, our focus will remain on improving service, strengthening supply chain performance, and helping our members and retailers grow,” Talarico said.

Headquartered in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Do it Best Group reported nearly $6 billion in annual sales and supports independent hardware, lumber and building materials retailers in the United States and internationally.