Hardlines Conference continues with speakers, awards

KING CITY, Ont. ― This year’s Hardlines Conference, which has the theme “It’s all about the experience”, started off strong with presentations from co-owners Valentina and Angela of Toronto’s The Store on Queen, Home Hardware Chair Christine Hand and economist Peter Norman. Conference participants heard tips on personalizing the customer experience and leveraging omnichannel to the advantage of brick-and-mortar operations. In the evening, the Outstanding Retailer Awards were presented to eight deserving honourees, including the inaugural Independent Spirit Category for retailers who bring a certain je ne sais quoi to their work through their character, enthusiasm and team-building.