Dealers share hottest product categories in Hardlines survey

SPECIAL REPORT — Despite variable business conditions across the country last year, dealers did see growth in a range of product categories. A survey of business conditions conducted in the spring by Hardlines revealed some common areas of growth for dealers. Among hardware stores, paint stood out as a growth category, being cited by dealers in five provinces. Plumbing was cited as another core category enjoying growth by hardware stores nation-wide, along with fasteners, electrical and HVAC. Among building supply dealers, growth categories reflected an emphasis on homeowners looking to enhance their outdoor spaces: decking, including composites, and lumber. (Full story in next week’s issue of Hardlines. Not yet a subscriber? Click here to take advantage of your free trial today!)