Beverly Allen, Publisher bev@hardlines.ca Vicky Sanderson, Editor vicky@hardlines.ca John Caulfield, Contributing Editor Phone: 416-489-3396
February 18, 2008, Vol. xiv, #7
 
In This Issue

“What's the use of happiness? It can't buy you money.” Henny Youngman (American comedian, 1906 - 1998)
RONA invests in Réno-Dépôt renovations
BOUCHERVILLE, QC — RONA will invest close to $20 million this year to redesign 11 Réno-Dépôt stores. The company made the announcement last week at an event to mark the completion of a $2 million renovation of the 115,000-sq.ft. Réno-Dépôt in Gatineau, Hull. It will serve as a prototype for the redesign of the other ten stores, all of which are located in Quebec. Work on Réno-Dépôt stores in Rosemère, Montreal, Brossard and Québec City, will be finished this spring. An additional six stores will be revamped during the second quarter. The new store format is anchored by a “Project Area”, where consumers can meet with “Project Guides” — staff trained in various aspects of home renovation and décor. It is divided into a reception counter where shoppers can get information quickly, and an “expertise” area where staff can review projects with customers in detail. Project Guides can also help with installation services, including getting estimates, setting up appointments and discussing financing. A wide central power aisle spotlights top-selling items, and branches out into open aisles and in-store boutiques for flooring, doors and windows, kitchens, bathrooms, paint and decor. A new boutique for storage, with a range of items for garages, kitchens, basements, and cabinets, sits near the store entrance. The new stores feature an upgraded, enlarged product assortment, positioned to encourage cross-category shopping. Signage has also been improved, and lighting has been brightened and softened to eliminate the harsh warehouse lighting effect. Meanwhile, the contractor counter has been expanded to ensure faster service for that customer segment.

Top
Canadian Tire tests small-format stores
TORONTO — Canadian Tire has begun testing a new infill store format for markets that are underserved by its current network. The prototypes will be between 12,000 sq.ft. and 16,000 sq.ft. Each will have a Mark’s Work Wearhouse and an expanded outdoor area to better serve the seasonal business—which the company says is especially important to communities that cater to tourists. The first of four new-format stores to open this year is in Hearst, ON, a town of about 6,000 that lies north-west of Kapuskasing. That location, which replaces an existing store, measures 18,000 sq.ft.—11,000 sq.ft. larger than the original location. It will also include a 7,000-sq.ft. garden centre and 7,000-sq.ft. outdoor canopied display. Construction of the new building is scheduled to wrap up at the end of May, with a tentative grand opening in July.

Top
MatPlus hosts first show for Quebec dealers
VICTORIAVILLE, QC — Canada’s newest buying group, Groupe MatPlus, held its first-ever buying show for its building supply dealer members last week. The show managed to attract about 120 of the 180 dealers who were formerly served by CanWel’s Servimat division. MatPlus is headed up by Daniel Thibault, general manager, who was formerly at Servimat. “For a first time, it was a good start,” says Carl Strulovitch, a partner in Probex Building Supplies in Roxboro, QC and one of the founders of MatPlus. “We had 40 exhibitors and we turned away 16, so we’ll probably have to get a bigger venue next time.” This year’s event was held at the new Centre des congrès here. MatPlus joined TIM-BR MARTS shortly after it was formed just over a year ago. The fit was a natural one, given both MatPlus link to CanWel Distribution and TIM-BR MARTS’ lack of presence in Quebec. Both these groups rely, in varying degrees, on their association with PRO Retail Services to manage the dealers’ purchasing and store management needs. However, this new buying show was held separately from PRS’s own show, held annually in Montreal in November. “The PRS show is the wrong time for building materials. February is better for buying LBM,” says Strulovitch. “However, it doesn’t diminish the group’s relationship with TIM-BR MARTS,” he adds. “They had a booth at this show,” he notes. “It’s a true win-win for both of us. We add volume for them and they add purchasing power for us – which is the name of the game.”

Top

LBMAO show weathers winter storm
TORONTO — Severe winter weather didn’t stop some 400 lumber and building material dealers, vendors and suppliers from attending the yearly LBMAO dinner here last week. The event, held on the second evening of the association’s annual two-day buying show, included the presentation of the 2007 LBMAO Industry Achievement Award, which went to Keith Moffatt and Dave Powell, owners of The Lumber Store in Strathroy, ON, and the presentation of the 2007 Student Achievement Awards.Keynote speaker Mike Holmes spoke about his Make it Right Foundation, which encourages young people to enter the trades, and to gain the skills needed to work to the high standard that Holmes espouses. Holmes predicts that within the next decade, Canada will face a severe shortage of skilled tradespeople. That shortfall, he says, will have significant negative effect on the LBM industry. The event also marked the formal recognition of the 120th anniversary of Hardware Merchandising, one of Canada’s oldest trade magazines. After the dinner, the crowd was treated to a performance by the Jim Cuddy band.  
Wal-Mart to invest in Mexico in 2008
MEXICO CITY — Wal-Mart de México will invest 12.5 billion pesos in Mexico this year, opening 205 new units, including Wal-Mart Supercenters, Superama and Bodega Aurrera self-service units; Sam’s Club; Suburbia apparel stores; Vips and El Porton restaurants. That number will also include 79 prototypes for the Bodega Aurrera banner, which combines discount and convenience formats in a smaller footprint.In 2008, Walmex will lower prices between 5% and 20% as part of a pact it made with Mexico’s government to help consumers cope with the slowed economic growth that’s expected here. Walmex’s sales for 2007 stood at 224.1 billion pesos, up from 206.4 billion pesos in 2006.

Top

Classifieds

DELIVERING ON THE PROMISE

National Account Manager

This Ontario based position has direct sales and sales development responsibilities for a number of major J&R customer organizations that have locations throughout the country. These customers represent significant revenue opportunities. An advanced level of own and competitive product knowledge is required. This important and strategic role requires making recommendations regarding the planning, development and execution of objectives pertaining to customer groups and business imperatives.

The role also relies on extensive experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals, perform a variety of tasks and will interface with all departments in the organization. A wide degree of business acumen, creativity and latitude is expected, along with excellent communication and judgement skills. Minimum 5-10 years of senior sales level exper ience or sales management is required in the Ontario marketplace. Existing networks and strong industry relationships would be an important asset. The position reports to the President and CEO. “Must have” - skills and abilities: Sales and related skills: Understand the selling process and buyer behaviour Customer centric focus Territory planning and management Presentation skills Communication skills Persuasion skills Relationship development skills Sense of urgency Goal and metric driven Understands “getting to yes” Well organized and planful Comfortable interacting at all levels, including management and “C” suite Business Skills: Understanding of home improvement markets and industry Able to have in depth meaningful business discussions Good understanding of product marketing Good understanding of supply chain and distribution Good negotiating skills Excellent problem solving skills Understand financial concepts and processes Understand basic financial reporting (example’s; Budgets, Balance sheets, Income statements) Up to date knowledge in use of technology and computer software skills Behavioural style; Able to work independently High emotional intelligence Friendly, outgoing, engaging Balanced between flexible and demanding High achiever, self motivated Empathetic and Intuitive (able to see things from customer perspective and read and anticipate reactions) Focused, excellent listening skills Relaxed communication style Replies to: bonnie.macmillan@jrhome.com  

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.

 
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
MONTREAL — Tembec had 1Q sales of $545 million, down from $649 million in the same period last year. That represents a loss of $60 million, compared to earnings of $138 million in the corresponding quarter of the previous year. The company blames a weak market, maintenance downtime and a strong Canadian dollar for the results. It is, however, cautiously optimistic about the pulp market in 2008.MONTREAL — Retail sales in Quebec and Canada posted their 12th consecutive year of growth in 2007. According to the Retail Council of Quebec’s annual report, retail sales in Quebec grew 4.5% to $90.7 billion. That compares with growth of 6% to $412.7 billion Canada-wide. In Quebec, sales were pushed up by above-average growth in pharmacies (16.9%) and electronic and appliance stores (12.4%). Household furnishing, however, dipped by 0.6%. The RCQ also reported that disposable income in Quebec households increased to $24,505 in 2007 from $23,267 in 2006, and is calling for growth of 3.5% in 2008. According to the 2007 Hardlines Retail Report, Quebec comprises 25.1% of the Canadian home improvement market. SHERBROOKE, QC — Clarke Inc. signaled its interest last week in privatising Shermag Inc., the residential furniture maker based here that recently announced it is reducing its workforce from 1,050 to 730. Clarke, a Halifax-based investor with a portfolio that includes companies in the transportation and services sectors, sent a letter of interest to Shermag’s board of directors, offering to pay below Shermag’s current trading price. It has also said that it will invite other major shareholders to participate. TORONTO — The man who helped torch the Woodbine Home Hardware and Building Supply store here, causing the death of another man, was sentenced last week to 6 1/2 years in prison, according to report in the Toronto Star. The fire, one of the largest in the city’s history, was started in the early hours of Dec. 25, 2001. Because Shaun McMaster has served the equivalent to 6 1/2 years in pre-trial custody, he walked free from Ontario Superior Court. McMaster will be on probation for two years. Building owner John Magno is accused of getting McMaster and others to burn it down so that he could make a fraudulent insurance claim. He awaits trial on a charge of second-degree murder. TAYLOR, MI — Masco Corp. saw sales decline 7% in 2007 to $11.8 billion, compared with $12.7 billion in sales for 2006. The drop came from lowered North American sales, which declined 12%, pushed down by a slow U.S. housing market, and by lower sales of cabinets, windows and doors, and corresponding installation services. Results were positively affected by increased retail sales of paints and stains and by international sales, which rose 15%. FEDERAL WAY, WA — Weyerhaeuser had sales of $16.3 billion in 2007, down from $18.7 billion in the previous year. The company also saw a loss of $63 million in 4Q 2007, compared with earnings of $507 million in the same period for the previous year. It blamed the drop on the depressed U.S. housing market, which created unfavorable market conditions for timberlands, wood products and real estate businesses. MINNEAPOLIS — Valspar Corp. had sales of $765.1 million for the quarter ended Jan. 25, a 10.2% increase from the first quarter of 2007. Net income for the first quarter was $24 million, up from $23.6 million in 1Q 2007. During the earnings report webcast, Valspar also announced that it had acquired Aries Coil Coatings in December 2007. Located in Monterrey, Mexico, Aries had 2007 sales of approximately $40 million. CLEVELAND — Sherwin-Williams Co. plans to buy the liquid coating division of Inchem Holdings International Ltd., according to a report in Associated Press. The Singapore-based Inchem produces coatings in China, Vietnam and Malaysia that are sold in 18 countries in Asia. The deal will further expand Sherwin-Williams’ reach in the region, and comes at the end of year in which it made acquisitions in India, Uruguay and Mexico. Inchem has 400 employees at four factories and generates annual sales of about $30 million. LONDON — Jaruary UK retail sales rose 2.6% on a same-store basis, compared with January 2007, when sales were up 3.1%, according to the British Retail Consortium. That was the third straight month of growth. Food, health and beauty sales picked up, while clothing sales were down. Homewares and furniture showed only a modest improvement. MOSCOW — Swedish furniture giant Ikea has bought a 50-hectare plot in the city’s northeast end, on which it plans to build its fourth store in the city, according to the Moscow Times. “IKEA is very successful in Russia,” Ikea spokesperson Oksana Belaichuk was quoted as saying. “It has the highest turnover in Europe, if not the world.” BEIJING — Severe weather over the last few weeks has resulted in a loss of about one-tenth of China’s forest resources, according to the China Daily website. The report says that 17.3 million hectares (43 million acres) of forest in more than half of all the country’s provinces have been damaged. The worst-hit regions have seen nearly 90% of their forests destroyed. At the end of January, winter weather had cost China's forestry sector 16.2 billion yuan. The State Forest Administration warns that trees killed by winter frost also raise the risk of forest fires, and may add to the negative impact of the weather.
Economic Indicators
Seasonally adjusted housing starts stood at 222,700 units in January, up from 184,700 units in December. Urban multiples jumped 64.1% to 108,000 units in January, while singles fell 4.8% to 81,500 units. (CMHC)New house prices rose 6.2% between December 2006 and December 2007. The highest increases were in Saskatoon, with an increase of 45.1% from December 2006, and Regina, where the increase was 25.9% over the same period. (StatsCan) Exports fell 3.1% to $36.7 billion in December 2007. Imports inched up 0.7% to $34.3 billion. Prices increased 3.4%, while volumes declined 2.7%. (StatsCan)
In memoriam
Dave Tonkin, former director of national accounts for Broadleaf Logistics Co., died suddenly last week. Tonkin, who had just retired after 40 years in the industry, was making his last official industry appearance, at the Home Hardware Lumber and Building Materials Convention in Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico.
Beverly Allen, Publisher bev@hardlines.ca Vicky Sanderson, Editor vicky@hardlines.ca John Caulfield, Contributing Editor Phone: 416-489-3396
February 18, 2008, Vol. xiv, #7
 
In This Issue

“What's the use of happiness? It can't buy you money.” Henny Youngman (American comedian, 1906 - 1998)
RONA invests in Réno-Dépôt renovations
BOUCHERVILLE, QC — RONA will invest close to $20 million this year to redesign 11 Réno-Dépôt stores. The company made the announcement last week at an event to mark the completion of a $2 million renovation of the 115,000-sq.ft. Réno-Dépôt in Gatineau, Hull. It will serve as a prototype for the redesign of the other ten stores, all of which are located in Quebec. Work on Réno-Dépôt stores in Rosemère, Montreal, Brossard and Québec City, will be finished this spring. An additional six stores will be revamped during the second quarter. The new store format is anchored by a “Project Area”, where consumers can meet with “Project Guides” — staff trained in various aspects of home renovation and décor. It is divided into a reception counter where shoppers can get information quickly, and an “expertise” area where staff can review projects with customers in detail. Project Guides can also help with installation services, including getting estimates, setting up appointments and discussing financing. A wide central power aisle spotlights top-selling items, and branches out into open aisles and in-store boutiques for flooring, doors and windows, kitchens, bathrooms, paint and decor. A new boutique for storage, with a range of items for garages, kitchens, basements, and cabinets, sits near the store entrance. The new stores feature an upgraded, enlarged product assortment, positioned to encourage cross-category shopping. Signage has also been improved, and lighting has been brightened and softened to eliminate the harsh warehouse lighting effect. Meanwhile, the contractor counter has been expanded to ensure faster service for that customer segment.

Top
Canadian Tire tests small-format stores
TORONTO — Canadian Tire has begun testing a new infill store format for markets that are underserved by its current network. The prototypes will be between 12,000 sq.ft. and 16,000 sq.ft. Each will have a Mark’s Work Wearhouse and an expanded outdoor area to better serve the seasonal business—which the company says is especially important to communities that cater to tourists. The first of four new-format stores to open this year is in Hearst, ON, a town of about 6,000 that lies north-west of Kapuskasing. That location, which replaces an existing store, measures 18,000 sq.ft.—11,000 sq.ft. larger than the original location. It will also include a 7,000-sq.ft. garden centre and 7,000-sq.ft. outdoor canopied display. Construction of the new building is scheduled to wrap up at the end of May, with a tentative grand opening in July.

Top
MatPlus hosts first show for Quebec dealers
VICTORIAVILLE, QC — Canada’s newest buying group, Groupe MatPlus, held its first-ever buying show for its building supply dealer members last week. The show managed to attract about 120 of the 180 dealers who were formerly served by CanWel’s Servimat division. MatPlus is headed up by Daniel Thibault, general manager, who was formerly at Servimat. “For a first time, it was a good start,” says Carl Strulovitch, a partner in Probex Building Supplies in Roxboro, QC and one of the founders of MatPlus. “We had 40 exhibitors and we turned away 16, so we’ll probably have to get a bigger venue next time.” This year’s event was held at the new Centre des congrès here. MatPlus joined TIM-BR MARTS shortly after it was formed just over a year ago. The fit was a natural one, given both MatPlus link to CanWel Distribution and TIM-BR MARTS’ lack of presence in Quebec. Both these groups rely, in varying degrees, on their association with PRO Retail Services to manage the dealers’ purchasing and store management needs. However, this new buying show was held separately from PRS’s own show, held annually in Montreal in November. “The PRS show is the wrong time for building materials. February is better for buying LBM,” says Strulovitch. “However, it doesn’t diminish the group’s relationship with TIM-BR MARTS,” he adds. “They had a booth at this show,” he notes. “It’s a true win-win for both of us. We add volume for them and they add purchasing power for us – which is the name of the game.”

Top

LBMAO show weathers winter storm
TORONTO — Severe winter weather didn’t stop some 400 lumber and building material dealers, vendors and suppliers from attending the yearly LBMAO dinner here last week. The event, held on the second evening of the association’s annual two-day buying show, included the presentation of the 2007 LBMAO Industry Achievement Award, which went to Keith Moffatt and Dave Powell, owners of The Lumber Store in Strathroy, ON, and the presentation of the 2007 Student Achievement Awards.Keynote speaker Mike Holmes spoke about his Make it Right Foundation, which encourages young people to enter the trades, and to gain the skills needed to work to the high standard that Holmes espouses. Holmes predicts that within the next decade, Canada will face a severe shortage of skilled tradespeople. That shortfall, he says, will have significant negative effect on the LBM industry. The event also marked the formal recognition of the 120th anniversary of Hardware Merchandising, one of Canada’s oldest trade magazines. After the dinner, the crowd was treated to a performance by the Jim Cuddy band.  
Wal-Mart to invest in Mexico in 2008
MEXICO CITY — Wal-Mart de México will invest 12.5 billion pesos in Mexico this year, opening 205 new units, including Wal-Mart Supercenters, Superama and Bodega Aurrera self-service units; Sam’s Club; Suburbia apparel stores; Vips and El Porton restaurants. That number will also include 79 prototypes for the Bodega Aurrera banner, which combines discount and convenience formats in a smaller footprint.In 2008, Walmex will lower prices between 5% and 20% as part of a pact it made with Mexico’s government to help consumers cope with the slowed economic growth that’s expected here. Walmex’s sales for 2007 stood at 224.1 billion pesos, up from 206.4 billion pesos in 2006.

Top

Classifieds

DELIVERING ON THE PROMISE

National Account Manager

This Ontario based position has direct sales and sales development responsibilities for a number of major J&R customer organizations that have locations throughout the country. These customers represent significant revenue opportunities. An advanced level of own and competitive product knowledge is required. This important and strategic role requires making recommendations regarding the planning, development and execution of objectives pertaining to customer groups and business imperatives.

The role also relies on extensive experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals, perform a variety of tasks and will interface with all departments in the organization. A wide degree of business acumen, creativity and latitude is expected, along with excellent communication and judgement skills. Minimum 5-10 years of senior sales level exper ience or sales management is required in the Ontario marketplace. Existing networks and strong industry relationships would be an important asset. The position reports to the President and CEO. “Must have” - skills and abilities: Sales and related skills: Understand the selling process and buyer behaviour Customer centric focus Territory planning and management Presentation skills Communication skills Persuasion skills Relationship development skills Sense of urgency Goal and metric driven Understands “getting to yes” Well organized and planful Comfortable interacting at all levels, including management and “C” suite Business Skills: Understanding of home improvement markets and industry Able to have in depth meaningful business discussions Good understanding of product marketing Good understanding of supply chain and distribution Good negotiating skills Excellent problem solving skills Understand financial concepts and processes Understand basic financial reporting (example’s; Budgets, Balance sheets, Income statements) Up to date knowledge in use of technology and computer software skills Behavioural style; Able to work independently High emotional intelligence Friendly, outgoing, engaging Balanced between flexible and demanding High achiever, self motivated Empathetic and Intuitive (able to see things from customer perspective and read and anticipate reactions) Focused, excellent listening skills Relaxed communication style Replies to: bonnie.macmillan@jrhome.com  

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.

 
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 ************************************
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COMPANIES IN THE NEWS
MONTREAL — Tembec had 1Q sales of $545 million, down from $649 million in the same period last year. That represents a loss of $60 million, compared to earnings of $138 million in the corresponding quarter of the previous year. The company blames a weak market, maintenance downtime and a strong Canadian dollar for the results. It is, however, cautiously optimistic about the pulp market in 2008.MONTREAL — Retail sales in Quebec and Canada posted their 12th consecutive year of growth in 2007. According to the Retail Council of Quebec’s annual report, retail sales in Quebec grew 4.5% to $90.7 billion. That compares with growth of 6% to $412.7 billion Canada-wide. In Quebec, sales were pushed up by above-average growth in pharmacies (16.9%) and electronic and appliance stores (12.4%). Household furnishing, however, dipped by 0.6%. The RCQ also reported that disposable income in Quebec households increased to $24,505 in 2007 from $23,267 in 2006, and is calling for growth of 3.5% in 2008. According to the 2007 Hardlines Retail Report, Quebec comprises 25.1% of the Canadian home improvement market. SHERBROOKE, QC — Clarke Inc. signaled its interest last week in privatising Shermag Inc., the residential furniture maker based here that recently announced it is reducing its workforce from 1,050 to 730. Clarke, a Halifax-based investor with a portfolio that includes companies in the transportation and services sectors, sent a letter of interest to Shermag’s board of directors, offering to pay below Shermag’s current trading price. It has also said that it will invite other major shareholders to participate. TORONTO — The man who helped torch the Woodbine Home Hardware and Building Supply store here, causing the death of another man, was sentenced last week to 6 1/2 years in prison, according to report in the Toronto Star. The fire, one of the largest in the city’s history, was started in the early hours of Dec. 25, 2001. Because Shaun McMaster has served the equivalent to 6 1/2 years in pre-trial custody, he walked free from Ontario Superior Court. McMaster will be on probation for two years. Building owner John Magno is accused of getting McMaster and others to burn it down so that he could make a fraudulent insurance claim. He awaits trial on a charge of second-degree murder. TAYLOR, MI — Masco Corp. saw sales decline 7% in 2007 to $11.8 billion, compared with $12.7 billion in sales for 2006. The drop came from lowered North American sales, which declined 12%, pushed down by a slow U.S. housing market, and by lower sales of cabinets, windows and doors, and corresponding installation services. Results were positively affected by increased retail sales of paints and stains and by international sales, which rose 15%. FEDERAL WAY, WA — Weyerhaeuser had sales of $16.3 billion in 2007, down from $18.7 billion in the previous year. The company also saw a loss of $63 million in 4Q 2007, compared with earnings of $507 million in the same period for the previous year. It blamed the drop on the depressed U.S. housing market, which created unfavorable market conditions for timberlands, wood products and real estate businesses. MINNEAPOLIS — Valspar Corp. had sales of $765.1 million for the quarter ended Jan. 25, a 10.2% increase from the first quarter of 2007. Net income for the first quarter was $24 million, up from $23.6 million in 1Q 2007. During the earnings report webcast, Valspar also announced that it had acquired Aries Coil Coatings in December 2007. Located in Monterrey, Mexico, Aries had 2007 sales of approximately $40 million. CLEVELAND — Sherwin-Williams Co. plans to buy the liquid coating division of Inchem Holdings International Ltd., according to a report in Associated Press. The Singapore-based Inchem produces coatings in China, Vietnam and Malaysia that are sold in 18 countries in Asia. The deal will further expand Sherwin-Williams’ reach in the region, and comes at the end of year in which it made acquisitions in India, Uruguay and Mexico. Inchem has 400 employees at four factories and generates annual sales of about $30 million. LONDON — Jaruary UK retail sales rose 2.6% on a same-store basis, compared with January 2007, when sales were up 3.1%, according to the British Retail Consortium. That was the third straight month of growth. Food, health and beauty sales picked up, while clothing sales were down. Homewares and furniture showed only a modest improvement. MOSCOW — Swedish furniture giant Ikea has bought a 50-hectare plot in the city’s northeast end, on which it plans to build its fourth store in the city, according to the Moscow Times. “IKEA is very successful in Russia,” Ikea spokesperson Oksana Belaichuk was quoted as saying. “It has the highest turnover in Europe, if not the world.” BEIJING — Severe weather over the last few weeks has resulted in a loss of about one-tenth of China’s forest resources, according to the China Daily website. The report says that 17.3 million hectares (43 million acres) of forest in more than half of all the country’s provinces have been damaged. The worst-hit regions have seen nearly 90% of their forests destroyed. At the end of January, winter weather had cost China's forestry sector 16.2 billion yuan. The State Forest Administration warns that trees killed by winter frost also raise the risk of forest fires, and may add to the negative impact of the weather.
Economic Indicators
Seasonally adjusted housing starts stood at 222,700 units in January, up from 184,700 units in December. Urban multiples jumped 64.1% to 108,000 units in January, while singles fell 4.8% to 81,500 units. (CMHC)New house prices rose 6.2% between December 2006 and December 2007. The highest increases were in Saskatoon, with an increase of 45.1% from December 2006, and Regina, where the increase was 25.9% over the same period. (StatsCan) Exports fell 3.1% to $36.7 billion in December 2007. Imports inched up 0.7% to $34.3 billion. Prices increased 3.4%, while volumes declined 2.7%. (StatsCan)
In memoriam
Dave Tonkin, former director of national accounts for Broadleaf Logistics Co., died suddenly last week. Tonkin, who had just retired after 40 years in the industry, was making his last official industry appearance, at the Home Hardware Lumber and Building Materials Convention in Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico.