Beverly Allen, Publisher Vicky Sanderson, Editor John Caulfield, Contributing Editor Phone: 416-489-3396 Email: bev@HARDLINES.ca
February 11, 2008, Vol. xiv, #6
 
In This Issue

“ Ignorance is the night of the mind, but a night without moon and star.” — Confucius (Chinese philosopher, 551-479 BCE)
Canadian Tire records healthy profits in 2007
TORONTO — Canadian Tire Corp. reported a healthy increase in profits for 2007, with net earnings rising 17.8% to $417.6 million, on gross sales of $8.6 billion, which were up 4.3%. The company ended the year on a strong note, with fourth-quarter net earnings climbing 15.5% to $125.1 million. Adjusted net earnings for the quarter, which exclude non-operating gains and losses (and the severance package for ex-CEO Wayne Sales), were $127.6 million, a 29% increase compared to $98.8 million last year. Canadian Tire’s retail division, CTR, had fourth-quarter retail sales of $2.17 billion, up only 0.4% from 4Q 2006. Same-store sales did not fare well either: they were down 1.8% in the fourth quarter. Despite double-digit sales increases of seasonal merchandise, led by strong snow-thrower and automotive accessories sales, a significant decline in the tool category had a negative effect on sales.The company blamed “changes to the pricing and promotional strategy, combined with a challenging retail environment associated with this category.” For the year, CTR’s retail sales by all dealers grew 1.5%, to $5.5 billion, while same-store sales remained essentially flat over 2006. Excluding the negative impact of sales in the tool category, same-store sales would have been up 0.9% year-over-year. Fourth-quarter earnings before taxes were $81.7 million, a 14.2% increase over the $71.5 million recorded in 2006. CTR completed 67 Concept 20/20 projects during the year, opening eight new stores, retrofitting and expanding 49 stores and replacing ten others. Canadian Tire now has 192 Concept 20/20 stores and 32 CTR-Mark’s combination stores within its network of 473 stores.

Top
Wal-Mart Canada caters to Asian customers
MISSISSAUGA, ON — Wal-Mart Canada is selling traditional Chinese New Year food, greeting cards and decorations for the first time at 51 stores nationally. The move is part of a “Store of the Community” program, which was described by Jim Thompson, senior vp of merchandising for Wal-Mart, at the 2007 Hardlines Conference. The program uses AC Neilsen and Census data to target ethnic population clusters and tailor merchandise to those consumers. Wal-Mart Canada's Chinese New Year products are the same as those found in Wal-Mart stores in China. They include traditional couplets, ornaments, lanterns, and banners, as well as a specially-commissioned Year of the Rat plush toy. Live orchids, lucky bamboo, orange and money trees will also be available, as will specialty food and cookery. The community store plan will extend, however, beyond the holiday period in seven Wal-Mart Canada stores, which will offer more small sizes in apparel, Asian newspapers, martial arts DVDs and jade jewelry. In the Markham store, signage is in English and Chinese, a practice RONA instituted in select locations of its network a few years back.

Top
Residential construction to fall in 2008: CMHC
OTTAWA — A record $74.3 billion worth of building permits were issued in 2007, up 12.1% from the previous record of $66.3 billion in 2006, according to Statistics Canada.Every province posted gains, except Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia. In Quebec, growth accelerated from 5.2% in 2006 to 9.2% in 2007. In Ontario, the value of permits grew 14.7%, jumping ahead from a 3.5% decline in 2006. Toronto posted the largest dollar gain among metropolitan areas, followed by Calgary, Montreal, Vancouver and Edmonton.New records were also set for intentions in both non-residential and residential sectors. In the non-residential sector, the value of permits totaled $28.7 billion, up 13.8% from $25.2 billion in 2006. In the residential sector, municipalities issued $45.6 billion worth of permits, up 11.0%. The number of new dwellings approved increased 2% in 2007 to 237,875 units. Meanwhile, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp.’s Housing Market Outlook for 1Q 2008, calls for housing starts, which reached 228,343 units in 2007, to decline in 2008 to about 211,700 units. But CMHC still sees a strong year ahead, and notes that it will be the seventh consecutive year in which starts exceed 200,000 units.

Top

U.S. pending home sales continue to fall
WASHINGTON — Sales contracts for the purchase of previously owned homes were down 1.5% in December, from the prior month, based on a monthly index compiled by the National Association of Realtors (NAR). At 85.9, the index was 24.2% lower than in December 2007. The association expects existing-home sales to be at 4.9 million in the first half of this year, rising to 5.8 million in the second half, and totaling 5.6 million in 2009. The aggregate existing-home price should decline 1.2% in 2008 to a median of $216,300, and then rise 3.2% to $223,200 in 2009. However, critics of the association say that NAR is overly optimistic about current market conditions. NAR projects that new-home sales will decline 17.7% to 637,000 in 2008 before rising 7.6% to 685,000 in 2009. “Builders will further lower new-home construction throughout this year and into 2009 to bring inventory under control,” Lawrence Yun, NAR's chief economist says. Housing starts, including multifamily units, are estimated to fall 20.1% to 1.08 million this year, and decline another 1.3% to 1.07 million in 2009. The median new-home price is expected to fall 4.3% to $236,300 in 2008, and then increase 5% in 2009.

Top

Classifieds

Retail Brand Manager:

American Standard, an industry leader in Bath and Kitchen products, is seeking a Retail Brand Manager.

A strong understanding of the Canadian retail Faucet and home improvement market is preferred, along with at least 5 years experience with both national and regional accounts. Preference given to candidates with; 1. 5 years overall sales/marketing experience in working with Canadian retailers. 2. Proficient in Microsoft Office, Excel and PowerPoint. 3. Exposure to national retail accounts. 4. Strong analytical and presentation skills. 5. Self starter who can work independently. Education equivalent to college diploma or university degree required, preferably in marketing. American Standard is located in Mississauga, within close proximity to the intersection of Dixie and Dundas. Qualified appl icants should send resume and salary requirements via email to hrmississauga@americanstandard.com. No phone calls please.  

Richard Simms, President of Black Eagle Consulting is pleased to announce the introduction of EXECUTIVE SEARCH SERVICES Richard’s years of consulting experience in the home improvement industry have provided a wealth of industry contacts and the expertise to match the right person to the right corporation and position. For more information: 905-842-3010 rsimms@blackeagle.ca www.blackeagle.ca

ONTARIO DISTRICT SALES MANAGER

We are a long established, national specialty building materials manufacturing company with a Vancouver Head Office. We sell to all of the leading building supply retailers including: Home Depot, Lowes, and Rona.

You will operate from a company owned Mississauga sales office and distribution centre.

Description:

You are responsible for all Ontario sales to a large, province-wide dealer network including building supply dealers, roofing companies, window and door manufacturers, glass shops, etc.

You will be entrusted with maintaining and growing our expanding Ontario dealer network, assisted by a marketing support agency. Qualifications:
  • College education
  • Min 3 years sales experience
  • Had success in developing new business.
Compensation:
  • Attractive base salary
  • Bonus
  • Full benefits
  • Car and phone allowance
Email: career@columbiaskylights.com

Fax: (604) 437-4443

OUTSTANDING BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

INDEPENDENT DISTRIBUTOR/BUSINESS PARTNER

Our client, Exchange-A-Blade, a Canadian Company with over 30 years of proven success in supplying power tool accessories to the retail lumber, home center and hardware industry. Their main method of marketing has been through independent distributors selling directly to retailers within a protected territory. The Company takes great pride in the success of their Distributors which is evidenced by the longevity of many of their relationships.

There are currently openings to take over established territories in Ontario and Saskatchewan.

If you are a high-energy achiever, people oriented with exceptional communication skills and ready for the challenge of running your own business then we would like to hear from you.

Ideal candidates will a minimum of 5 years sales experience within the hardware industry a sound track record of growing business, possess a valid driver’s license and be comfortable with some overnight travel.

An investment will be required.

Interested candidates should forward their resume to:

David Hughes at davidh@icaconsult.com

We thank all applicants for their interest but will only reply to those of interest.

 
National Key Account Manager
Task Tools & Abrasives is a family owned company that has been in the hardware industry in North America since 1968. Due to strong growth, they are looking for a National Key Account Manager that can contribute to the strategic direction and goals of the company as well as continue to drive results among their key customer base. You must have a proven, stable, track record of establishing trust and long- term relationships with Key Account customers as well as buyers and/or other senior executives. In addition you will have a minimum of 3-5 years Key Account Man agement experience in retail (big-box and chain accounts). A post secondary education as well as conversational French would be an asset. Interested candidates can forward their resumes in confidence to SteveSampson@nrpsearch.com.  
Marketplace
Sell your company - or buy one - with HARDLINES Classifieds! Do your executive search, find new lines or get new reps in the HARDLINES Marketplace. Only $2.75 per word for three weeks in the classifieds. To place your ad, call Brady Peever at 416-489-3396 or email: brady@HARDLINES.ca
To ensure you receive your HARDLINES newsletter each week, please add admin@HARDLINES.ca to your address book.

Did your email system make this newsletter unreadable? You can read it online instead . Publishing Details:

HARDLINES is published weekly (except monthly in December and August) by HARDLINES Inc. 360 Dupont Street Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5R 1V9

© 2008 by HARDLINES Inc. HARDLINES™ the electronic newsletter www.HARDLINES.ca ; Phone: 416.489.3396; Fax: 416.489.6154

Beverly Allen, Publisher - bev@HARDLINES.ca Vicky Sanderson - Editor - vicky@HARDLINES.ca Michael McLarney - President - mike@HARDLINES.ca Brady Peever - Circulation Manager - brady@HARDLINES.ca

The HARDLINES "Fair Play" Policy:

Reproduction in whole or in part is very uncool and strictly forbidden and really and truly against the law. So please, play fair!

Call for information on multiple subscriptions or a site license for your company. We do want as many people as possible to read HARDLINES each week - but let us handle your internal routing from this end! Subscription:

$285 (Canadian subscribers add $14.25 GST = $299.25 per year/ GST #13987 0398 RT).

Secondary subscriptions at the same office are only $46 (Canadian subscribers add $2.30 GST = $48.30).

Ask about our reduced rate for branch offices.

You can pay online by VISA/MC/AMEX at our secure website or send us money. Please make cheque payable to HARDLINES.

************************************“ HARDLINES and Koelnmesse will once again host a very special reception in Cologne – and you’re invited! Join us Sunday, March 9 at the International Hardware Fair/Practical World. Click below to download your invitation. Questions or to RSVP, call Brady Peever, 419-489-3396, or email brady@hardlines.ca ************************************
Click here to download your invitation.
 
COMPANIES IN THE NEWS
WINDSOR, ON — Lowe's Canada will build an 118,000-sq.-ft. store here, according to the Windsor Star. While’s Lowe’s policy is not to confirm locations until all real estate transactions are finalized, the report says the proposal is going through the City of Windsor's site plan application process, and a store employee, who declined to be identified, confirmed the location.VICTORIAVILLE, QC — Groupe MatPlus held its first-ever buying show for building supply dealers on Feb. 7 and 8 at the Centre des congrès here. Close to 200 dealers formerly served by CanWel’s Servimat division were expected to attend. Another dozen or so dealers who are not yet members of MatPlus were also invited. MatPlus is headed up by its general manager Daniel Thibault, who was formerly at Servimat. The group was formed one year ago. MONTREAL — Opposition to a proposal by the company’s largest shareholder last week threatened to push financially troubled Tembec closer to creditor protection, according to the Canadian Press. Several creditors rejected what they saw as the disproportionate power that would flow to Emanuele Saputo, who recently resigned from Tembec's board of directors, and is the chairman of Jolina Capital Inc., which owns 19.4% of Tembec’s stock. Late last week, the company announced that noteholders would support the company’s original recapitalization proposal. TORONTO — Loblaw Cos. same-store 4Q sales climbed 2.6% from the same period a year ago. Overall sales stood at $6.97 billion, up by 2.7% from $6.78 billion in the previous period. WHISTLER, BC — A U.S. recession won't necessarily cause a steep drop in Canadian retail sales this year, International Council of Shopping Centers chairman Rene Tremblay told a conference here last week. While the Canadian retail environment will be “challenging”, the industry should grow by about 5% this year, compared with 5.7% last year, he says. CHICAGO — W. W. Grainger, the wholesale distributor of maintenance supplies, has increased its product line by 44,000 SKUs. Several key categories have been beefed up, including power transmission, raw material, and fleet maintenance products. Plumbing, electrical, tools, and material handling categories saw the bulk of the increase, with 30,000 items being added to those lines. The company has also launched a line of private-label professional cleaning supplies called “Tough Guy” that includes degreasers, disinfectants, soaps, dispensers and trash containers. ISSAQUAH, WA — Costco Wholesale Corp. reported January net sales of $5.11 billion, an increase of 11% from $4.62 billion last year. Year to date, the company reported net sales of $29.64 billion, up 11%. Same-store sales for January were up 7%; and up 8% year to date. Same-store sales for the international division, positively affected by the strong Canadian dollar, were up 19% in January and up 17% year to date. LONDON — Ian Cheshire, the newly named CEO of Kingfisher plc, will not immediately abandon the company’s largest and least productive stores, according to the Financial Times. Given a collapsing property market, the move would not make sense, Cheshire told a meeting of shareholders last week. Instead, he pledges to upgrade customer service and extend the product range of the B&Q chain to include more environmentally friendly products and items for older consumers. He also plans to “feminise” stores with soft furnishings, and launch rebate cards for contractors, who will also be lured with free coffee and bacon rolls.
People on the move
Derek Matysik has joined Techtronic Industries as director of sales, Home Depot Division. Matysik previously worked at Black & Decker and Delta International Machinery. To place an item in the People on the Move section, please send information, including the person’s name, title and contact email or phone number, if desired, to Vicky@hardlines.ca. Hardlines reserves the right to edit items for length.
Correction:
Last week, incorrect information was given about personnel changes at Robert Bosch Tool Corp., where Steve Mather has been named national account manager for Dremel and RotoZip, part of the Robert Bosch Tool Corp. group with responsibility for Sears, Canadian Tire, and Wal-Mart.
Noted...
“We have to make our properties more fun and more comfortable because consumers want to feel like VIPs when they shop.” — Rene Tremblay, chairman, International Council of Shopping Centers.
Beverly Allen, Publisher Vicky Sanderson, Editor John Caulfield, Contributing Editor Phone: 416-489-3396 Email: bev@HARDLINES.ca
February 11, 2008, Vol. xiv, #6
 
In This Issue

“ Ignorance is the night of the mind, but a night without moon and star.” — Confucius (Chinese philosopher, 551-479 BCE)
Canadian Tire records healthy profits in 2007
TORONTO — Canadian Tire Corp. reported a healthy increase in profits for 2007, with net earnings rising 17.8% to $417.6 million, on gross sales of $8.6 billion, which were up 4.3%. The company ended the year on a strong note, with fourth-quarter net earnings climbing 15.5% to $125.1 million. Adjusted net earnings for the quarter, which exclude non-operating gains and losses (and the severance package for ex-CEO Wayne Sales), were $127.6 million, a 29% increase compared to $98.8 million last year. Canadian Tire’s retail division, CTR, had fourth-quarter retail sales of $2.17 billion, up only 0.4% from 4Q 2006. Same-store sales did not fare well either: they were down 1.8% in the fourth quarter. Despite double-digit sales increases of seasonal merchandise, led by strong snow-thrower and automotive accessories sales, a significant decline in the tool category had a negative effect on sales.The company blamed “changes to the pricing and promotional strategy, combined with a challenging retail environment associated with this category.” For the year, CTR’s retail sales by all dealers grew 1.5%, to $5.5 billion, while same-store sales remained essentially flat over 2006. Excluding the negative impact of sales in the tool category, same-store sales would have been up 0.9% year-over-year. Fourth-quarter earnings before taxes were $81.7 million, a 14.2% increase over the $71.5 million recorded in 2006. CTR completed 67 Concept 20/20 projects during the year, opening eight new stores, retrofitting and expanding 49 stores and replacing ten others. Canadian Tire now has 192 Concept 20/20 stores and 32 CTR-Mark’s combination stores within its network of 473 stores.

Top
Wal-Mart Canada caters to Asian customers
MISSISSAUGA, ON — Wal-Mart Canada is selling traditional Chinese New Year food, greeting cards and decorations for the first time at 51 stores nationally. The move is part of a “Store of the Community” program, which was described by Jim Thompson, senior vp of merchandising for Wal-Mart, at the 2007 Hardlines Conference. The program uses AC Neilsen and Census data to target ethnic population clusters and tailor merchandise to those consumers. Wal-Mart Canada's Chinese New Year products are the same as those found in Wal-Mart stores in China. They include traditional couplets, ornaments, lanterns, and banners, as well as a specially-commissioned Year of the Rat plush toy. Live orchids, lucky bamboo, orange and money trees will also be available, as will specialty food and cookery. The community store plan will extend, however, beyond the holiday period in seven Wal-Mart Canada stores, which will offer more small sizes in apparel, Asian newspapers, martial arts DVDs and jade jewelry. In the Markham store, signage is in English and Chinese, a practice RONA instituted in select locations of its network a few years back.

Top
Residential construction to fall in 2008: CMHC
OTTAWA — A record $74.3 billion worth of building permits were issued in 2007, up 12.1% from the previous record of $66.3 billion in 2006, according to Statistics Canada.Every province posted gains, except Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia. In Quebec, growth accelerated from 5.2% in 2006 to 9.2% in 2007. In Ontario, the value of permits grew 14.7%, jumping ahead from a 3.5% decline in 2006. Toronto posted the largest dollar gain among metropolitan areas, followed by Calgary, Montreal, Vancouver and Edmonton.New records were also set for intentions in both non-residential and residential sectors. In the non-residential sector, the value of permits totaled $28.7 billion, up 13.8% from $25.2 billion in 2006. In the residential sector, municipalities issued $45.6 billion worth of permits, up 11.0%. The number of new dwellings approved increased 2% in 2007 to 237,875 units. Meanwhile, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp.’s Housing Market Outlook for 1Q 2008, calls for housing starts, which reached 228,343 units in 2007, to decline in 2008 to about 211,700 units. But CMHC still sees a strong year ahead, and notes that it will be the seventh consecutive year in which starts exceed 200,000 units.

Top

U.S. pending home sales continue to fall
WASHINGTON — Sales contracts for the purchase of previously owned homes were down 1.5% in December, from the prior month, based on a monthly index compiled by the National Association of Realtors (NAR). At 85.9, the index was 24.2% lower than in December 2007. The association expects existing-home sales to be at 4.9 million in the first half of this year, rising to 5.8 million in the second half, and totaling 5.6 million in 2009. The aggregate existing-home price should decline 1.2% in 2008 to a median of $216,300, and then rise 3.2% to $223,200 in 2009. However, critics of the association say that NAR is overly optimistic about current market conditions. NAR projects that new-home sales will decline 17.7% to 637,000 in 2008 before rising 7.6% to 685,000 in 2009. “Builders will further lower new-home construction throughout this year and into 2009 to bring inventory under control,” Lawrence Yun, NAR's chief economist says. Housing starts, including multifamily units, are estimated to fall 20.1% to 1.08 million this year, and decline another 1.3% to 1.07 million in 2009. The median new-home price is expected to fall 4.3% to $236,300 in 2008, and then increase 5% in 2009.

Top

Classifieds

Retail Brand Manager:

American Standard, an industry leader in Bath and Kitchen products, is seeking a Retail Brand Manager.

A strong understanding of the Canadian retail Faucet and home improvement market is preferred, along with at least 5 years experience with both national and regional accounts. Preference given to candidates with; 1. 5 years overall sales/marketing experience in working with Canadian retailers. 2. Proficient in Microsoft Office, Excel and PowerPoint. 3. Exposure to national retail accounts. 4. Strong analytical and presentation skills. 5. Self starter who can work independently. Education equivalent to college diploma or university degree required, preferably in marketing. American Standard is located in Mississauga, within close proximity to the intersection of Dixie and Dundas. Qualified appl icants should send resume and salary requirements via email to hrmississauga@americanstandard.com. No phone calls please.  

Richard Simms, President of Black Eagle Consulting is pleased to announce the introduction of EXECUTIVE SEARCH SERVICES Richard’s years of consulting experience in the home improvement industry have provided a wealth of industry contacts and the expertise to match the right person to the right corporation and position. For more information: 905-842-3010 rsimms@blackeagle.ca www.blackeagle.ca

ONTARIO DISTRICT SALES MANAGER

We are a long established, national specialty building materials manufacturing company with a Vancouver Head Office. We sell to all of the leading building supply retailers including: Home Depot, Lowes, and Rona.

You will operate from a company owned Mississauga sales office and distribution centre.

Description:

You are responsible for all Ontario sales to a large, province-wide dealer network including building supply dealers, roofing companies, window and door manufacturers, glass shops, etc.

You will be entrusted with maintaining and growing our expanding Ontario dealer network, assisted by a marketing support agency. Qualifications:
  • College education
  • Min 3 years sales experience
  • Had success in developing new business.
Compensation:
  • Attractive base salary
  • Bonus
  • Full benefits
  • Car and phone allowance
Email: career@columbiaskylights.com

Fax: (604) 437-4443

OUTSTANDING BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY

INDEPENDENT DISTRIBUTOR/BUSINESS PARTNER

Our client, Exchange-A-Blade, a Canadian Company with over 30 years of proven success in supplying power tool accessories to the retail lumber, home center and hardware industry. Their main method of marketing has been through independent distributors selling directly to retailers within a protected territory. The Company takes great pride in the success of their Distributors which is evidenced by the longevity of many of their relationships.

There are currently openings to take over established territories in Ontario and Saskatchewan.

If you are a high-energy achiever, people oriented with exceptional communication skills and ready for the challenge of running your own business then we would like to hear from you.

Ideal candidates will a minimum of 5 years sales experience within the hardware industry a sound track record of growing business, possess a valid driver’s license and be comfortable with some overnight travel.

An investment will be required.

Interested candidates should forward their resume to:

David Hughes at davidh@icaconsult.com

We thank all applicants for their interest but will only reply to those of interest.

 
National Key Account Manager
Task Tools & Abrasives is a family owned company that has been in the hardware industry in North America since 1968. Due to strong growth, they are looking for a National Key Account Manager that can contribute to the strategic direction and goals of the company as well as continue to drive results among their key customer base. You must have a proven, stable, track record of establishing trust and long- term relationships with Key Account customers as well as buyers and/or other senior executives. In addition you will have a minimum of 3-5 years Key Account Man agement experience in retail (big-box and chain accounts). A post secondary education as well as conversational French would be an asset. Interested candidates can forward their resumes in confidence to SteveSampson@nrpsearch.com.  
Marketplace
Sell your company - or buy one - with HARDLINES Classifieds! Do your executive search, find new lines or get new reps in the HARDLINES Marketplace. Only $2.75 per word for three weeks in the classifieds. To place your ad, call Brady Peever at 416-489-3396 or email: brady@HARDLINES.ca
To ensure you receive your HARDLINES newsletter each week, please add admin@HARDLINES.ca to your address book.

Did your email system make this newsletter unreadable? You can read it online instead . Publishing Details:

HARDLINES is published weekly (except monthly in December and August) by HARDLINES Inc. 360 Dupont Street Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5R 1V9

© 2008 by HARDLINES Inc. HARDLINES™ the electronic newsletter www.HARDLINES.ca ; Phone: 416.489.3396; Fax: 416.489.6154

Beverly Allen, Publisher - bev@HARDLINES.ca Vicky Sanderson - Editor - vicky@HARDLINES.ca Michael McLarney - President - mike@HARDLINES.ca Brady Peever - Circulation Manager - brady@HARDLINES.ca

The HARDLINES "Fair Play" Policy:

Reproduction in whole or in part is very uncool and strictly forbidden and really and truly against the law. So please, play fair!

Call for information on multiple subscriptions or a site license for your company. We do want as many people as possible to read HARDLINES each week - but let us handle your internal routing from this end! Subscription:

$285 (Canadian subscribers add $14.25 GST = $299.25 per year/ GST #13987 0398 RT).

Secondary subscriptions at the same office are only $46 (Canadian subscribers add $2.30 GST = $48.30).

Ask about our reduced rate for branch offices.

You can pay online by VISA/MC/AMEX at our secure website or send us money. Please make cheque payable to HARDLINES.

************************************“ HARDLINES and Koelnmesse will once again host a very special reception in Cologne – and you’re invited! Join us Sunday, March 9 at the International Hardware Fair/Practical World. Click below to download your invitation. Questions or to RSVP, call Brady Peever, 419-489-3396, or email brady@hardlines.ca ************************************
Click here to download your invitation.
 
COMPANIES IN THE NEWS
WINDSOR, ON — Lowe's Canada will build an 118,000-sq.-ft. store here, according to the Windsor Star. While’s Lowe’s policy is not to confirm locations until all real estate transactions are finalized, the report says the proposal is going through the City of Windsor's site plan application process, and a store employee, who declined to be identified, confirmed the location.VICTORIAVILLE, QC — Groupe MatPlus held its first-ever buying show for building supply dealers on Feb. 7 and 8 at the Centre des congrès here. Close to 200 dealers formerly served by CanWel’s Servimat division were expected to attend. Another dozen or so dealers who are not yet members of MatPlus were also invited. MatPlus is headed up by its general manager Daniel Thibault, who was formerly at Servimat. The group was formed one year ago. MONTREAL — Opposition to a proposal by the company’s largest shareholder last week threatened to push financially troubled Tembec closer to creditor protection, according to the Canadian Press. Several creditors rejected what they saw as the disproportionate power that would flow to Emanuele Saputo, who recently resigned from Tembec's board of directors, and is the chairman of Jolina Capital Inc., which owns 19.4% of Tembec’s stock. Late last week, the company announced that noteholders would support the company’s original recapitalization proposal. TORONTO — Loblaw Cos. same-store 4Q sales climbed 2.6% from the same period a year ago. Overall sales stood at $6.97 billion, up by 2.7% from $6.78 billion in the previous period. WHISTLER, BC — A U.S. recession won't necessarily cause a steep drop in Canadian retail sales this year, International Council of Shopping Centers chairman Rene Tremblay told a conference here last week. While the Canadian retail environment will be “challenging”, the industry should grow by about 5% this year, compared with 5.7% last year, he says. CHICAGO — W. W. Grainger, the wholesale distributor of maintenance supplies, has increased its product line by 44,000 SKUs. Several key categories have been beefed up, including power transmission, raw material, and fleet maintenance products. Plumbing, electrical, tools, and material handling categories saw the bulk of the increase, with 30,000 items being added to those lines. The company has also launched a line of private-label professional cleaning supplies called “Tough Guy” that includes degreasers, disinfectants, soaps, dispensers and trash containers. ISSAQUAH, WA — Costco Wholesale Corp. reported January net sales of $5.11 billion, an increase of 11% from $4.62 billion last year. Year to date, the company reported net sales of $29.64 billion, up 11%. Same-store sales for January were up 7%; and up 8% year to date. Same-store sales for the international division, positively affected by the strong Canadian dollar, were up 19% in January and up 17% year to date. LONDON — Ian Cheshire, the newly named CEO of Kingfisher plc, will not immediately abandon the company’s largest and least productive stores, according to the Financial Times. Given a collapsing property market, the move would not make sense, Cheshire told a meeting of shareholders last week. Instead, he pledges to upgrade customer service and extend the product range of the B&Q chain to include more environmentally friendly products and items for older consumers. He also plans to “feminise” stores with soft furnishings, and launch rebate cards for contractors, who will also be lured with free coffee and bacon rolls.
People on the move
Derek Matysik has joined Techtronic Industries as director of sales, Home Depot Division. Matysik previously worked at Black & Decker and Delta International Machinery. To place an item in the People on the Move section, please send information, including the person’s name, title and contact email or phone number, if desired, to Vicky@hardlines.ca. Hardlines reserves the right to edit items for length.
Correction:
Last week, incorrect information was given about personnel changes at Robert Bosch Tool Corp., where Steve Mather has been named national account manager for Dremel and RotoZip, part of the Robert Bosch Tool Corp. group with responsibility for Sears, Canadian Tire, and Wal-Mart.
Noted...
“We have to make our properties more fun and more comfortable because consumers want to feel like VIPs when they shop.” — Rene Tremblay, chairman, International Council of Shopping Centers.