IN THIS ISSUE

• Canadian Tire adds installation services
• Home Hardware presents refinements to services at Fall Market
• RONA sponsors Vancouver Canucks
• Target confirms locations of former Zellers sites
• Retail groups look for growth during flat period
• Sico offers new colour palette
• PLUS: New head of Walmart Canada, Fennell wins award, U.S. retailers start Christmas sales earlier, new wood guide, Lowe’s spends on lobbying —and more!

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Register Now
Nov. 17-18, 2011

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DID YOU KNOW…?

…that the speakers are just part of the attraction of the HARDLINES Conference? Your fellow delegates, the industry’s leading executives and managers, will gather on Oct. 27-28 in Toronto. Companies already registered include: Home Depot, Lowe’s, RONA, Castle, BMR, TruServ Canada, Canadian Tire, and TIM-BR MARTS; plus Exchange-A-Blade, 3M Canada, A. Richard Tools, ITW Construction Products, Jeld-Wen, Masco Canada, Master Lock, Phillips Lighting Canada, Taiga Building Products and more. Don’t miss out! Click here to register today! —Michael

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Rock Your Business
4-7 March 2012
Cologne

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NEWS IN BRIEF

CALGARY — Totem Building Supplies plans to plant one million trees in Alberta’s boreal forests near Slave Lake, and the company has recently completed planting the first 100,000 trees. The initiative is just one component of Totem’s long-term sustainable development platform. Totem customers are encouraged to purchase a Clean Air Tree Kit, containing Canadian white spruce tree seeds. They can then plant their own tree and use a special PIN code inside the tree kit to register their planting on the World Clean Air Forest Initiative website and world map. Totem uses the proceeds from each tree kit sold to plant an additional tree over and above its one million-tree commitment. Then, The Canadian Institute of Forestry plants a third tree in support of WCAFI. Totem partnered with Stanley Black & Decker to donate a total of $46,750 to the Slave Lake Relief Fund from in-store tool sales between August and September.

NEW YORK — Retailers across the U.S. are seeking to capitalize on holiday spending by rolling out holiday decorations and goods earlier than past years, according to a report by USA Today. Christmas merchandise has been on display at Costco stores since Sept. 1 and on some Home Depot shelves since Sept. 19. Kmart and Sears began selling Christmas trimmings Sept. 25. In years past, Walmart would wait until mid-October, but it started this past weekend. “Retailers are putting out a little bit of holiday stuff earlier each year,” Mike Gatti of the National Retail Federation told USA Today. “They know a substantial number of consumers will pick out Christmas tree ornaments even as they’re picking out Halloween pumpkins.” In fact, an NRF survey shows that more than 37% of shoppers plan to do some holiday shopping by Halloween.

VICTORIA — The province of British Columbia has a new guide to improve wood-frame construction. “ Building Enclosure Design Guide – Wood-Frame Multi-Unit Residential Buildings” draws on industry knowledge gained over the past decade to enhance the quality of wood-frame, multi-unit residential buildings constructed in the province. Designed as a reference tool for the construction industry, it explores the latest research, design, and construction best practices for building enclosures. It’s available from the Homeowner Protection Office, a branch of BC Housing.

WASHINGTON — Lowe’s Cos. spent $180,000 lobbying the U.S. federal government in the first quarter. Businessweek reports that the retailer spent 29% more this year than it did in 2010, lobbying the feds on issues such as energy-efficiency rebates, tariff suspensions on imported ceiling fans, online sales taxes, and debit-card fees. Lowe’s spent $215,000 on lobbying in the first quarter.

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Make significant and measurable savings with OGC

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PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

Walmart Canada CEO David Cheesewright is being promoted to head up Walmart’s international retail operations across Canada, the United Kingdom and Sub-Saharan Africa … He’s being replaced in the Canadian CEO role by Shelley Broader. She was formerly the retailer’s chief merchandising officer. Before that, she was president and CEO of Michael’s in North America.

Fred Fennell, owner of Fennell Marketing & Sales, has garnered one of the lighting industry’s highest honours, the 2011 Pillar of the Industry Award. The award was presented during the closing banquet of the American Lighting Association Annual Conference, Sept. 13 in Palm Beach, FL. The Pillar of the Industry awards recognize up to three ALA members (manufacturers’ representative, showroom, manufacturer) for their “unique and meaningful service to advance the lighting industry and the ALA’s programs and mission.” Fennell’s accomplishments include his instrumental role in developing governmental relations with Natural Resources Canada as it relates to lighting and ceiling fans. He serves as chair of the Canadian Government Affairs Task Force, and has attended numerous government meetings throughout Canada representing the industry. This is Fennell’s second Pillar of the Industry award. He won first in 2003.

Jim and Kendall Proudfoot, owners of Proudfoots Home Hardware Building Centre in Pictou, NS, have been awarded the 10th Annual Paul Straus Public Relations Award. The award recognizes a dealer’s commitment to giving back to the community and acknowledges dealers who continually excel at making their stores more visible in their communities through innovative approaches using public relations. Proudfoots has been in the Pictou County community since 1971 and also has stores in New Glasgow and Stellarton.

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OVERHEARD…

“The essence of being a leader is that you are focused on people. Some leaders at large organizations are focused on process, but there is no process in the world that can’t be subverted by people.” —General Rick Hillier (ret.), former Chief of the Defence Staff of the Canadian Forces, speaking to Home Hardware dealers about leadership at Home’s recent Fall Market in St. Jacobs, ON.

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We Look Forward to Seeing You May 1-3, 2012

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IN THIS ISSUE

• Stremecki to leave TIM-BR MARTS
• TruServ dealers begin switch to “TRU” banner
• Home Hardware hosts retreat for young retailers
• Tools expected to drive sales at International Hardware Fair
• PLUS: Canadian Tire launches online tire store, Home Hardware plants trees, Stanley B&D closes deal, B&Q adds stores and jobs, Restoration goes public, Acklands-Grainger acquires in Quebec —and more!

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Rock Your Business
4-7 March 2012
Cologne

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DID YOU KNOW…?

… that the ability to connect with key buyers is tougher than ever? (Aw, you already knew that.) That’s why the upcoming HARDLINES Conference will host “How to Connect with Buyers.” This panel, moderated by Bill Wilson, Retail Advisor for the NRHA, will feature Joel Marks, Director, Merchandising – Hardlines for Home Hardware Stores; and Doug Keeling, Lumber and Building Materials Buyer for Castle Building Centres. With vendor perspective from Chad Murray of Quest Plastics and agency input from David Paquet of Fennell Marketing & Sales, this promises to be a no-holds barred discussion on what you should and shouldn’t do when dealing with your buyer. Click here for more info! Oct. 27 & 28 in Toronto! —Michael

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21-23 September, 2011 Shanghai New International
Expo Center

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NEWS IN BRIEF

TORONTO — Canadian Tire has launched an online tire store, offering shoppers over 8,000 name brands and private lines. Customers receive complimentary shipping of orders to their local Canadian Tire store for installment or pick-up. The website lets customers shop based on their vehicle, model year, tire size, tire type, or brand. The site also features product comparisons, product information, and a “help me choose” function which guides consumers through the purchase process. A product support area offers articles, how-to videos, buying guides, and FAQs. Tire orders are then shipped at no charge to the local store, where customers can arrange pickup and installation.

TORONTO — While in town last week for the Home Hardware Fall Market, dealers attended a Blue Jays game, where a $250,000 cheque from Home was presented to Austin Featherstone, a Special Olympics Canada athlete, and Anthony Miceli, vice-president business development and marketing from Special Olympics Canada.

Following the cheque presentation, John Locke, the owner of Orillia Home Hardware Building Centre, with Featherstone and Miceli, threw the ceremonial first pitch to get the Blue Jays game vs. the New York Yankees underway.

MOORESVILLE, NC — Lowe’s Cos. has introduced a new slogan, “Never Stop Improving.” It replaces the old tag line, “Let’s Build Something Together,” and together with a new online tool, “MyLowes,” the company is looking for ways to connect with U.S. consumers amidst the continued economic downturn.

TORONTO — Industrial and safety supplier Acklands-Grainger Inc. has acquired the assets of industrial distributor Fercomat Inc., based in Baie-Comeau, QC. Acklands-Grainger expects the company to add about $3 million in sales over the next 12 months. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

CORTE MADERA, CA — With ambitions to go beyond its status as a niche furniture and accessories retailer, Restoration Hardware Holdings will go public. The company hopes to raise up to $150 million through an initial stock offering. Restoration was public once before, but its latest owners took it private in June 2008.

ST. JACOBS, ON — Home Hardware dealers across the country celebrated the first National Tree Day last week by planting trees in 22 communities from coast to coast. It reflects the company’s longstanding relationship with Tree Canada. Over the years, Home Hardware dealers have donated more than $540,000 to Tree Canada.

CHARLOTTE, NC — As part of an effort to rationalize its operations, Husqvarna Professional Products Inc., the maker of outdoor products, says it will stop making products under the Yazoo-Kees brand name by year end. However, the company will continue to produce similar products under both the Dixon and Husqvarna brands.

OTTAWA — Walmart Canada, through its annual Canadian Red Cross campaign, has raised $2.9 million for disaster preparedness and response activities for communities across the country. The record donation includes over $2.25 million from customer donations and $658,000 from Walmart Canada’s corporate matching grants.

LONDON — B&Q, the retail DIY business of parent company Kingfisher plc, will invest in its domestic British markets to the tune of £130 million ($202.4 million), opening more than 80 new Screwfix and B&Q stores before year’s end. The initiative, which includes a wider rollout of a new “urban” store that is almost half the size of conventional B&Q stores, is expected to create up to 1,200 jobs.

EDMONTON — First National AlarmCap Income Fund has completed the sale of substantially all of its assets to Stanley Canada, the subsidiary of Stanley Black & Decker, for $59.7 million. The fund generated a cash distribution of $5 per trust unit of the fund as a return of capital and was delisted on Sept. 23.

SANTA FE SPRINGS, CA — Trojan Battery Company, a manufacturer of deep-cycle batteries, and Palladium Energy, which makes custom lithium-based battery packs, have formed a strategic alliance to develop clean-energy battery solutions for a range of industries. Together, the companies will develop lithium-based battery packs for use in Trojan’s key market segments, which include renewable energy, golf, marine, and recreational vehicles.

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PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

Wendy McPherson has been promoted to the role of national sales manager at Blanco Canada Inc. She was previously retail sales manager there … Steve Guterres has joined Blanco as key account manager. He was previously with King Marketing. (905-612-0554)

Owens Corning, the Toledo, OH-based building materials supplier, has named John D. Williams, president and CEO of Montreal-based Domtar Corporation, to its board of directors, effective Nov. 30.

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ECONOMIC INDICATORS

The Consumer Price Index rose 3.1% in the 12 months to August, mainly as a result of higher prices for gasoline and food purchased from stores. This follows increases of 2.7% in July and 3.1% in June. On a seasonally adjusted monthly basis, consumer prices rose 0.3% in August. (Stats Canada)

Wholesale sales advanced 0.8% in July to $48.2 billion after remaining flat in June. Most of the growth was concentrated in the machinery, equipment and supplies, the personal and household goods, and the motor vehicle and parts sub-sectors. The largest increase was from wholesalers of construction, forestry, mining, and industrial machinery, equipment and supplies. (Stats Canada)

U.S. building permits in August were 620,000, up 3.2% from July and up 7.8% from August 2010. However, housing starts were 571,000, representing a dip of 5.0% from the prior month and down 5.8% from the prior year. (U.S. Commerce Dept.)

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We Look Forward to Seeing You May 1-3, 2012

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OVERHEARD…

The Canadian Hardware and Housewares Manufacturers Association will present René Labrecque, general manager of the hardware and machinery sector at La Coop fédérée, at a breakfast meeting on Oct. 12 at the Hotel Mortagne in Boucherville, QC. Cost for C HHMA members is $65; $85 for non-members. Click here for more info.

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IN THIS ISSUE

• McMunn & Yates buys Weber’s in Saskatchewan
• General Paint gains national presence with Laurentide acquisition
• Orgill introduces “low-overhead” urban store
• RONA buyers will hold face-to-face meetings with new vendors
• Delta Faucet study unveils Americans’ bathroom behaviours
• PLUS: Philips wins award, RONA makes hires, Home Hardware holds Market, Walmart raises money, Dollarama makes gains, Mirolin builds DC, Allroc parent floats debentures, manufacturing up —and more!

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21-23 September, 2011 Shanghai New International
Expo Center

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DID YOU KNOW…?

… that Normand Dumont, executive vice-president, merchandising for RONA inc., is the latest retail executive to join the roster of presenters at the upcoming HARDLINES Conference? He will be part of a breakout session that will discuss “How to Profit While Going Green”. He joins Rob Forbes, president, Exchange-A-Blade; and Steve Blasiak, business development manager, Laurentide Inc. (Boomerang Paints). The 16th Annual Conference will be held in Toronto, Oct. 27 & 28. Click here for more info! —Michael McLarney, Editor

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Rock Your Business
4-7 March 2012
Cologne

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NEWS IN BRIEF

Washington — Philips Lighting North America has won the U.S. Department of Energy’s L Prize the 60-watt replacement bulb category. The prize recognizes Philips’ successful response to the industry challenge to develop high performance, energy-saving replacements for conventional light bulbs with a 10-watt LED bulb. “We looked at the L Prize challenge as an opportunity to innovate and develop an energy efficient alternative to a product that has remained largely unchanged for over a century,” said Zia Eftekhar, CEO of Philips Lighting North America.

LAVAL, QC — Junior department store retailer Hart Stores Inc. had sales in the second quarter of $38.7 million, a 15.7% decrease from last year’s $45.9 million. For the quarter, the company reported a net loss of $922,000, vs. a net profit of $72,000. For the six-month period, sales reached $68.4 million, a decrease of 15.5%, while net losses deepened to $4.42 million from $1,358,000 for the same period last year. On Aug. 30, Hart Stores filed for creditor protection.

ETOBICOKE, ON — Mirolin Industries Corp., a Masco Company, is expanding acrylic tub and shower operations with a manufacturing facility in Western Canada. The 150,000-square-foot facility and distribution centre will be located in Airdrie, AB, situated to service all of Western Canada. Production at the new facility will start in the first quarter of 2012. “The expansion is a significant commitment to the Western Canadian market and reinforces our dedication to Canadian economic growth,” says Dominic Primucci, president of Mirolin.

St. Jacobs, ON — More than 10,000 Home Hardware dealers, their staff, and families, as well as 4,500 vendors from across the country, arrived in the Waterloo region of southwestern Ontario this weekend for the company’s 2011 Fall Market and pre-Market Conference, which runs Sept. 17-20. The event combines the trade show with a series of seminars to provide a forum for dealer-owners and staff to network with their peers and share best practices and resources. Markets also serve as an opportunity for seasonal product purchasing and learning about upcoming trends. The theme for this year’s market is “Together towards Tomorrow.”

CALGARY — Superior Plus Corp. has reached an agreement with a syndicate of underwriters co-led by CIBC, BMO Capital Markets, National Bank Financial Inc., Scotia Capital Inc., and TD Securities Inc. to issue $75,000,000 worth of convertible unsecured subordinated debentures at $1,000 per debenture. Superior has granted to the underwriters an over-allotment option to purchase up to an additional $11,250,000 in debentures. Superior, whose Construction Products Distribution business includes Allroc and Winroc, will use the money raised from the offering to fund the redemption of approximately $75 million of previously issued debentures that come due Dec. 31, 2012.

MONTREAL — One retailer showing no signs of a slowdown despite the economy is Dollarama. Sales for the second quarter increased by 12.8% to $387.5 million, driven mainly by the opening of 57 new stores over the 12-month period, and by same-store sales growth of 4.7%. Sales year-to-date were up 11.9%. Net earnings for the second quarter increased to $37.7 million from $27.6 million.

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PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

RONA inc. has beefed up its PR and communications department with new appointments. Michelle Laberge has been ppointed senior director communications and public affairs. She was formerly vice-president of the consumer division of MSL Canada, a public relations agency. In her new role, Laberge will act as a spokesperson for the corporation, reporting to Claude Bernier, executive vice-president of marketing and customer innovations … Nadia Goyer has joined RONA as senior advisor. She is now the primary contact for media queries and manages product and interview requests. She comes over from La Coop fédérée … Sue Cavallucci has been named director of internal communications, reporting to Christian Proulx, senior vice-president, people and culture. She was most recently manager of media and public affairs at IMS Health Canada. Reporting to Cavallucci are Josée Vachon, corporate events co-ordinator, and Nathalie Latourelle, manager, electronic communications.

Martin Ross has been appointed marketing manager at Tree Island Industries Ltd., in Richmond, BC. Ross’s long experience in this industry includes CanWel, and most recently Taymor. (604-524-3744) ext 4357

Gary Kuney has been appointed Ontario business development and sales manager for Abris Harnois Inc., based in St-Thomas, QC.

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ECONOMIC INDICATORS

Manufacturing sales rose 2.7% to $46.7 billion in July. The increase follows three consecutive months of declines. More than three-quarters of the sales gains in July were in Ontario. The biggest gain was in petroleum and coal products sales, which increased 6.1%. Constant dollar manufacturing sales were up 2.8%. (Stats Canada)

U.S. retail and food services sales in August were $389.5 billion, virtually unchanged from the previous month and up 7.2% from one year ago. Excluding autos, retail and food services, sales in August were $323.1 billion, up 0.1% from July and up 7.3% from August 2010. (U.S. Commerce Dept.)

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We Look Forward to Seeing You May 1-3, 2012

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OVERHEARD…

“This theme captures the essence of the independent, yet team-minded approach that drives Home Hardware to success year after year.” —Paul Straus, President and CEO of Home Hardware Stores Limited, on the theme (“Together towards Tomorrow”) of the latest Home Hardware dealer market, being held this week.

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IN THIS ISSUE

• TIM-BR MARTS reprises minor league hockey video challenge
• Dealers identify customer service challenges at NRHA forum
• Sears extends Craftsman in Ace stores, adds Costco
• International hardware group plans worldwide events
• PLUS: Lowe’s opens two more in Canada, Sears team rides for kids’ cancer research, Cologne garden fair enjoys big increases, Hart Stores de-listed, Red Minnow signs agency, building permits rise —and more!

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21-23 September, 2011 Shanghai New International
Expo Center

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DID YOU KNOW…?

… that vendors will get tips on connecting with home improvement buyers from the buyers themselves at the 16th Annual HARDLINES Conference? Joel Marks, director of merchandise – hardlines, for Home Hardware Stores, and Doug Keeling, buyer for lumber and building materials at Castle Building Centres, will join seasoned vendors Chad Murray of Quest Plastics and Dave Paquet of Fennell Marketing and Sales. Don’t miss the HARDLINES Conference, Oct. 27 & 28 at the Toronto Airport Sheraton Hotel. Click here for more information. —Michael McLarney, Editor

NEWS IN BRIEF

REGINA — Lowe’s opens its first store in Regina today – and its 28th in Canada. The opening, in South Regina, comes after a delay of about nine months, due to wet weather that plagued much of the Prairies in the early spring. The 103,000-square-foot outlet sports a 32,000-square-foot garden centre and carries about 40,000 SKUs. The grand opening weekend begins Sept. 16 and will include an autograph-signing session by former hockey star Wendel Clark. Another store, in South Etobicoke, on the Queensway in Toronto’s west end, opened its doors this past weekend and features a contractor-only promotion today.

VANCOUVER — Fifteen national relay riders began cycling across Canada last week in the Sears National Kids Cancer Ride to help raise money and awareness in the battle against childhood cancer during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month this September. Now in its fourth year, the Sears National Kids Cancer Ride is the longest charitable cycling event of its kind in the world. They left White Rock, BC on the morning of Sept. 7. The national riders will ride relay-style across the country before arriving in Halifax on September 22, completing a journey that will take them over 7,000 km.

COLOGNE, Germany — The garden fair spoga+gafa, which ended on Sept. 6, attracted 36,300 trade visitors from 106 countries, an increase of more than 40% over the previous event in 2009. The trade visitors used the international business platform in Cologne to gain a comprehensive overview of the trends and new products from the garden market. A total of 1,774 suppliers from 57 countries presented their product ranges.

LAVAL, QC — After filing for creditor protection two weeks ago, Hart Stores Inc. has been informed that the Toronto Stock Exchange will delist its shares at the close of market on Oct. 7, for failure to meet the continued listing requirements of the TSX. The retailer, which operates 92 mid-sized department stores under the Hart, Bargain Giant, and Géant des Aubaines banners, says it will consider applying to list its shares on another stock exchange in Canada.

LONDON, ON — Red Minnow Ag Products Inc. has contracted Moral Fibre Enterprises Ltd. as its sales and service support company. Moral Fibre is owned and operated by Adam Paluka, who will work with Red Minnow’s principal, Daniel Loewith, in promoting and selling its brands in the agricultural retail marketplace. In addition, Red Minnow has added Dare Products, an electric fencing company based in Battle Creek, MI, to its portfolio of key agricultural brands, which include RedBrand field fencing and Tuff Stuff pails and water troughs.

MILWAUKEE, WI — Following the launch of a hand tool business in 2010, Milwaukee Tool will expand the line with of several new products in October. Aimed at innovations that will increase productivity, the new products will fall into three new categories: pliers, snips, and PEX cutting.

The tools have been designed for the electrical, mechanical, HVAC, MRO, and remodelling trades. Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation is a Brookfield, WI-based subsidiary of Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd. (TTI).

SEOUL, Korea — Homeplus, South Korea’s second-largest discount chain, announced the opening of what it calls a “fourth generation retail store,” Homeplus Smart Virtual Store, at Seolleung subway station in southern Seoul. This store stocks no products and all purchases are made through smart phones, the Korea JoongAng Daily reported. Consumers will be able to order from 35,000 groceries and electronics products like digital cameras by scanning product QR codes or barcodes with their smartphones in the subway station with the Homeplus app.

MOORESVILLE, NC — Lowe’s Cos. has purchased 140 acres in an industrial park in Rome, GA, that will be the site of a new distribution centre. The facility is expected to create about 600 jobs.

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PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

At Trojan Battery Company, the manufacturer of deep-cycle batteries, Mat Segal has been appointed senior vice-president of global business development. In his new role, Segal will be responsible for managing international sales growth – including Canada – and leading Trojan’s global expansion of sales and distribution. 

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ECONOMIC INDICATORS

The value of building permits rose for the third month in a row in July, by 6.3% to $7.0 billion. The increase in July was mostly in the residential sector, where the value of permits nationally increased 14.6% to $4.3 billion. That increase was, in turn, driven by advances in multi-family dwelling permits in Ontario. It was the third consecutive monthly increase in permits. The largest decline occurred in Quebec, where building intentions fell in the non-residential sector. Permits in the non-residential sector decreased 4.5% to $2.7 billion.

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We Look Forward to Seeing You May 1-3, 2012

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Back to top

IN THIS ISSUE

• Reorg for Home Depot Canada’s merchandising team
• Orgill fall market attracts variety of Canuck independents
• Lowe’s U.S. reorganizes, changes merchandising team
• CIL wants paint to cater to a male audience
• PLUS: Chalifour to hold show, Hart Stores seek protection, Target begins hiring, Lowe’s in Australia, Sears overcharges, RONA helps, Grainger acquires, Home Depot golfs —and more!

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21-23 September, 2011 Shanghai New International
Expo Center

_____________________________________

DID YOU KNOW…?

… that traditional hardware stores saw their collective sales drop 9.4% in 2010? They continued to feel the brunt of the slowed economy. Their ranks are also shrinking as many of them expand their operations to become building centres. This is just one of the insights into the retail home improvement market awaiting you in our upcoming Retail Home Improvement Report, 2011-2012 Edition. More than 160 PowerPoint slides explain size, growth and market shares of the industry’s top retail players. Click here for more information and to order your advance copy today! —Michael McLarney, Editor

NEWS IN BRIEF

CALGARY — Chalifour Canada, the wholesale hardware business that TIM-BR MARTS purchased last year from CanWel, will host its annual trade show in Montreal Oct. 29-30. Click here for more info.

VANCOUVER — CanWel Building Materials Group’s largest shareholder, The Futura Corporation, has acquired 500,000 shares of the company. This brings Futura’s ownership of CanWel to 24.5% of the total number of shares issued. Futura is an investment firm controlled by Amar Doman, who is also chairman and CEO of CanWel.

LAVAL, QC — Hart Stores Inc. has obtained an Initial Order from the Québec Superior Court under Canada’s Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act. The Court granted Hart Stores protection under the CCAA for an initial period expiring on September 29, 2011, to be extended as required and approved by the Court, to give it time to restructure its operations. Under the order, the retailer, which operates 92 junior department stores, is authorized to borrow up to $20 million from Wells Fargo Capital Finance Canada, its current secured lender. Hart Stores believes “that restructuring under the CCAA will provide the company with the best opportunity to develop a viable business plan to ensure successful operations in the future.” All of the Hart Stores locations remain open in the meantime.

MINNEAPOLIS — Target Canada has launched www.target.ca/careers for Canadians who want to work at its offices and stores. The site features information about Target’s history, mission, and values. Target Canada is hiring team members for positions at its headquarters in Mississauga, ON in human resources, merchandising, healthcare, real estate, design and property management, supply chain and distribution support, legal and risk management, assets protection, and loss prevention and marketing. The Canadian headquarters will be home to approximately 100 team members by the end of this year, and more than 500 by the time Target starts opening stores in 2013. The retailer plans to open 125-135 stores, each employing 150-200 team members.

TORONTO — Seven Sears Canada stores in British Columbia inadvertently collected Environmental Handling Fees for small appliances between Aug. 1 and Aug .20, the company says. However, due to changes by the Canadian Electrical Stewardship Association (CESA), the Environmental Handling Fees will be charged as of Oct. 1, not Aug. 1 as originally stated. The terminals in the seven Sears stores were incorrectly programmed with the original start date.

CALGARY — RONA has joined forces with other Calgary suppliers and contractors to build a new home for struggling single mother Cheryl Morrisey and her four daughters. After visiting the house earlier this year to do some minor repairs, local contractor and RONA customer Kerry Wiebe discovered mould and other problems that indicated unacceptable living conditions. He decided the house should come down and recruited local businesses to help rebuild it. RONA donated all of the lumber for the two-storey home.

MELBOURNE, Australia — Lowe’s, in partnership with the country’s leading retailer, Woolworths, opened its first home improvement big box last Thursday (the traditional grand opening day for Lowe’s in both Canada and the U.S., by the way).

The second store will open in Sydney in the new year. The “Masters” hardware stores chain is headed up by Don Stallings, who got his international experience as president for a time of Lowe’s Canada, before heading down under. He says each store will generate in excess of AU$25 million (CD$26.2 million). Lowe’s is a one-third partner in the joint venture.

MARKHAM, ON — About 450 participants took part in the 2011 The Home Depot Charity Classic, held Aug. 17 at Angus Glen. With the support of vendors in attendance, more than $1 million was raised, making it, says the company, its most successful tournament ever. All proceeds from the event will help The Home Depot Canada Foundation in its commitment to building strong, sustainable communities across Canada.

MISSISSAUGA, ON — Walmart Canada has installed a rooftop solar power-generating system and wind turbine at two Walmart Canada locations in Ontario. Located on top of the Kitchener-Waterloo store, the rooftop solar power-generating system is expected to generate 450,000 kilowatt hours of energy per year, enough to supply 39 average size Canadian households. The solar system is expected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 80 tonnes per year. The 20-kilowatt wind turbine has been installed beside the retailer’s Milton store. It is expected to generate up to 50,000 kilowatt hours of electricity per year.

OAK BROOK, IL — Ace Hardware Corp. has launched an improved business development website at www.myace.com. The site, developed by San Diego based Aviatech, will provide information to prospective Ace retailers. The site includes testimonials from Ace retailers who have recently joined or added a store. As a part of its growth strategy, Ace plans to open 110 new stores in 2011; as of Aug. 1, 72 new stores had opened. Growth comes from new dealers, banner conversions, and from existing Ace retailers who open additional stores.

CHICAGO — Grainger has acquired the shares of Fabory Group, a leading European distributor of fasteners and related MRO products. The transaction price was approximately €242 million ($344 million). Offering more than 80,000 products in 14 countries, Fabory is headquartered in Tilburg, the Netherlands, and has strong presence in the Netherlands and Belgium, with 2010 sales of €211 million ($300 million). The deal gives Grainger the opportunity to expand its MRO business in Europe.

MOORESVILLE, NC — Lowes begins roll out of 42,000 iPhones to its employees in its US and Canadian stores. “Our employees will check inventory availability, access how-to videos and utilize lowes.com from the aisles of the store,” stated CEO Robert Niblock. The retailer is responding to Home Depot’s fall 2010 deployment of 30,000 First Phone mobile devices. The roll out is expected to be completed by the end of January 2012, and the device tasks may be expanded.

HONG KONG — Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd. (TTI), the international power equipment and floor care company, announced net profit growth of 72.8% to $80 million for the first half of the year, representing a record for the company. Sales in the first half of 2011 totalled $1.8 billion, up 11.0% over 2010. Growth occurred across all of TTI’s businesses: the Power Equipment business was up 11.3%, although North American business achieved high single-digit growth, while the rest of world business grew double-digits.

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_____________________________________

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

At TORBSA Group’s recent AGM, Len Hewson of Hewson Brothers Supply Limited, Brantford, ON, was elected president of the buying group for 2011. Hewson also sits on the 2011 board of directors, along with: vice-president Doug Portiss of Sarnia Drywall Supply Ltd. (Sarnia, ON); vice-president operations Tom Murray, T-Murr Exteriors Inc. (Kingsville, ON); Treasurer Blake Oldershaw of Oldershaw Builders Supply Co. Ltd. (Chatham, ON); past president Michael Bernardi, Bernardi Building Supply Ltd. (Weston, ON); and secretary Dante DiGiovanni of Blair Building Materials Inc. (Maple, ON). Bob Holmes is general manager of TORBSA. (905-857-5811)

At Combi Inc., the sales and marketing agency, Dave Mayhew has joined as new account manager. During the past two years, he worked as a national account manager for Globe Electric. Prior to that, he worked for Reebok Canada for over 11 years as a sales representative and then director of sales. Montreal-based Combi represents manufacturers such as Amertac, Canada Wire, Cooper Wiring Devices, Dimplex North America, Masco Canada, WD-40, and Westinghouse Lighting. (800-363-6443)

At CanWel Building Materials Group Ltd., Martin Hope will retire as CFO of the company and its subsidiaries effective Oct. 1. He will be replaced by James Code, a chartered accountant who served most recently as corporate controller of CanWel.

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ECONOMIC INDICATORS

Housing starts are forecast to remain steady in 2011 and 2012. Despite strong starts in recent months, they are expected to moderate in the midst of the current economic climate. Housing starts will be in the range of 166,300 to 197,200 units in 2011, with a point forecast of 183,200 units. In 2012, housing starts will be in the range of 161,700 to 207,200 units, with a point forecast of 183,900 units. Existing home sales will be in the range of 425,000 to 472,500 units in 2011, with a point forecast of 446,700 units, essentially the same level as in 2010. (CMHC Third Quarter Housing Market Outlook)

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We Look Forward to Seeing You May 1-3, 2012

_____________________________________

OVERHEARD…

“Despite recent financial uncertainty, factors such as employment, immigration, and mortgage rates remain supportive of the Canadian housing sector.” —Mathieu Laberge, deputy chief economist for CMHC

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Back to top

IN THIS BONUS ISSUE

• Home Depot merchant update
• Lowe’s, Home Depot report second-quarter results
• RONA renames Pierceys stores
• PLUS: Canadian Tire results, new head of Forzani, Sears Canada results, Walmart, U.S. housing starts —and more!

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_____________________________________

DID YOU KNOW…?

… that Gina Schaefer, owner of seven Ace Hardware stores in the Washington, DC area, is a leading proponent of the burgeoning “shop local” movement? Gina will talk about the viability of her urban hardware stores and the importance of the shop local movement at the upcoming HARDLINES Conference, Oct. 27 & 28. Without a doubt we have one of our strongest lineups ever at this year’s Conference. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn what home improvement retailing will look like in 2012 and beyond! click here for more information —Michael McLarney, Editor

NEWS IN BRIEF

TORONTO — Canadian Tire Corp. reported a 5.1% increase in consolidated retail sales in its second quarter. Consolidated net income was $105.8 million and basic earnings per share were $1.30, compared with $122.8 million and $1.51 respectively last year. Lower net income was largely due to planned increases in marketing and advertising expenditures, expenses related to strategic initiatives, lower than expected sales in certain seasonal categories, and costs associated with the purchase of the Forzani Group. Canadian Tire Retail’s sales were up 1.9%, driven by automotive, kitchen, and backyard living. Growth was partially offset by a decline in sales of outdoor tools and gardening.

TORONTO — Sears Canada Inc. reported total revenues for the second quarter ended July 30 of $1.15 billion, down 5.3% from $1.21 billion a year earlier. Same-store sales decreased 5.8%. The company suffered a net loss of $2.7 million, or three cents per share, compared with $20.5 million, or 19 cents per share. Total revenues for the 26-week period were $2.140 billion, a decrease of 6.2%. Same-store sales year-to-date decreased 7.4%.

BENTONVILLE, AR — Wal-Mart Stores reported net sales for the second quarter of $108.6 billion, a 5.5% increase over $103.0 billion. The big push appears to be coming from its growing international operations, which saw net sales rise by 16.2%. Domestic performance remains a challenge: same-store sales in the U.S. were flat.

MOORESVILLE, NC — Lowe’s Cos. has announced it will buy back $5 billion worth of shares, or the equivalent of 20% of its stock. The open-ended buyback is to take place over the next two to three years.

MOORESVILLE, NC — Lowe’s Cos. has launched a Spanish-language website for its growing range of Hispanic consumers. Customers can access the Spanish version of the site, which carries all of the catalogue and project information of the English language site, by visiting lowes.com/espanol.

____________________________________

Make significant and measurable savings with OGC

_____________________________________

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

At RONA inc., Dominique Boies has been appointed executive vp and CFO, effective Sept. 30. Most recently a senior vp at Caisse de depot et placement du Quebec, he will be a member of RONA’s management committee, reporting directly to RONA CEO Robert Dutton. Boies, who holds a Master degree in Science (specializing in finance) from the Université du Quebec à Montreal, will be responsible for RONA’s financial orientation and will be in charge of investor relations, accounting, financing, treasury, and legal affairs. He replaces Claude Guevin, who left a week before the announcement of RONA’s second-quarter results earlier this year.

Following the successful closing of Canadian Tire’s acquisition of Forzani Group Ltd., Michael Medline, formerly president of Canadian Tire’s automotive business unit, has been appointed as the new president of FGL. Medline led the acquisition of FGL and the company says “he has become deeply familiar with FGL’s operations over the past 10 months.” His long history at Canadian Tire includes leading the acquisition and integration of Mark’s by Canadian Tire in 2001 … Richard White has been promoted to senior vice-president and chief merchandising officer at FGL, with responsibility for merchandise strategy, vendor direction, and determining product assortment for all stores. 

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ECONOMIC INDICATORS

Consumer prices rose 2.7% in the 12 months to July, primarily the result of higher prices for gasoline and food purchased from stores. This follows a 3.1% increase in June and a 3.7% advance in May. (Stats Canada)

Sales of new single-family houses in the U.S. in July were 298,000 at a seasonally adjusted annual rate, down 0.7% from the revised June level, but up 6.8% from a year ago. Housing starts dipped in July, but not as much as expected. Driven mainly by multi-unit construction, housing starts were 604,000, down 1.5% from the prior month and up a healthy 9.8% from the same month a year earlier. Building permits in July, however, were down 3.2% from June, but up 3.8% from July 2010. (U.S. Commerce Dept.)

_____________________________________

We Look Forward to Seeing You May 1-3, 2012

_____________________________________

Back to top

IN THIS ISSUE:

• SUMMER PUBLISHING SCHEDULE
• Classified Ads of the week
• Other Hardlines Publications

_____________________________________

2011 Who’s Who
Directory

The Who’s Who Directory of over 75 of the top retail hardlines and home improvement customers in Canada is indispensable for anyone trying to expand their leads and understand who the top retail buyers are. Every sales team, every marketing research team, should have their own copies.

Subscriber Price: $209
Click here to order
and more information

_____________________________________

Hardlines
Home Improvement
Quarterly Magazine

HHIQ is your single source for insight, information and analysis about the competitive home improvement market you operate in.

Each issue will be a full-fledged report on the latest trends shaping home improvement retailing. It provides the latest strategic intelligence on the industry’s top retailers and suppliers — what they are doing to gain market share, strengthen their operations and improve their position in the marketplace.

Price: $25 per issue
Click here to order
and more information

_____________________________________

Hardlines
2011 Retail Report

Each year we round up all the information we have concerning the industry’s retail players. We draw from our vast information files and from our research in our very own HARDLINES Database. Then we cram it all into more than 150 slides in a PowerPoint Slide Presentation.

Subscriber Price: $679 per issue
Click here to pre-order
and for more information

_____________________________________

Hardlines Quarterly Report

HARDLINES Quarterly Report presents industry research and analyzes the trends that shape the hardware/home improvement industry in Canada. This final issue will bring you:

Top 10 Report:
Canada ’s leading home improvement retailers find strategies to cope with a slow economy.

Industry growth remains slow year-over-year
HARDLINES measures the size of the industry — and it’s not growing.

Economic Indicators:
Consumer confidence is down, housing is off, and competition is increasing. Where’s the good news?

The Buying Groups
The LBM buying groups have become more strategic, more aggressive, and more innovative — than ever before.

Quarterly Business Conditions Survey
Dealers report negative sales in the first quarter, with only slight improvement coming out of the second quarter.

Price: $199 per issue
Click here to order
and more information

_____________________________________

16th Annual
Hardlines Conference

TORONTO — The HARDLINES Conference will be held on Oct. 27 and 28 in Toronto. Now in its 16th year, it will provide valuable retail insights while giving delegates the opportunity to meet fellow dealers and suppliers face to face.

Featured speakers this year include experts on trends forecasting, global economic issues, expanding your target market, and how the growing “shop local” movement will help independents succeed in a big box world. Headliners include: Anthony Stokan, principal at Anthony Russell and Associates; Ken Jenkins, president of Castle Building Centres Group Ltd.; and Gina Schaefer, owner of seven Ace Hardware stores in the Washington, DC area, who will talk about the viability of urban hardware stores and the importance of the growing “shop local” movement.

Terry Davis, vice-president and COO of Home Hardware Stores Ltd., will offer insights into his company’s move to a more décor and style oriented approach to its product mix. Ira Kalish, director of Global Economics at Deloitte Research, and an expert on global economic issues, will speak on the effects of economic, demographic, and social trends on the global business environment.

The HARDLINES Conference will be held Oct. 27 and 28 at the Toronto Sheraton Airport Hotel in Toronto. It will offer an important forum for reaffirming professional connections – with special discounted pricing for independent dealers.  Click here for more information and to register.

_____________________________________

IN THIS ISSUE

• Weather, consumer confidence hold back RONA results
• First True Value dealers make switch to “TRU” banner
• UFA supports “Up from the Ashes” benefit concert
• Home Hardware exceeds 100 stores in Quebec
• PLUS: Canadian Tire gets acquisition okay, Lee Valley opens another store, housing starts rise, Tembec sales slip, True Value revenue up, building permits increase —and more!

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_____________________________________

DID YOU KNOW…?

… that featured speakers for the HARDLINES Conference, Oct. 27 & 28 in Toronto include: Terry Davis, vice-president and COO of Home Hardware Stores Ltd.; Ken Jenkins, president of Castle Building Centres Group Ltd.; Alan Huggins, president of Lowe’s Canada; and Frank Turco, product trends expert for Home Depot Canada? Also: Anthony Stokan – our retail guru – and principal at Anthony Russell and Associates; and Ira Kalish, director of Global Economics at Deloitte Research, an expert on global economic issues.click here for more information —Michael McLarney, Managing Director, NRHA Canada, & Editor, HARDLINES.

NEWS IN BRIEF

TORONTO & CALGARY — The Competition Bureau has given the okay to Canadian Tire Corporation to proceed with its takeover of The Forzani Group Ltd. through Canadian Tire’s wholly owned subsidiary, FGL Acquisition Co Limited. In addition, Forzani has obtained all other third party consents required by the terms of the offer. The transaction, announced May 9, is open for acceptance until 5 p.m. (EDT) on August 18.

OTTAWA — Lee Valley Tools Ltd., the woodworking, gardening hand tools, and cabinet hardware catalogue retailer, will open its 15th retail store in Waterloo, ON, tomorrow, Aug. 16. Located at 620 Davenport Rd., the store’s showroom will display all of the current woodworking and gardening hand tools, as well as the extensive selection of cabinet hardware available in the Lee Valley catalogues and on its website. Lee Valley Tools Ltd. is a family-owned business, founded by Leonard Lee in 1978.

MONTREAL — Canadian forest products company Tembec released its third-quarter results, for the period ending June 25. Consolidated sales were down to $448 million from $545 million in the prior year, while net earnings fell to $0.19 per share compared with $0.59 per share.

CHICAGO — True Value Company reported revenue of $529.5 million for the quarter ending July 2, an increase of 0.4% or $2.0 million from $527.5 million for the same period a year ago. The co-op posted a quarterly net margin of $21.8 million, a down 16.8% or $4.4 million vs. $26.2 million a year ago. For the six-month period, True Value reported revenue of $977.3 million, an increase of 2.2%, with same-store sales to core domestic hardware store outlets down 0.1%. The 2011 year-to-date net margin was $29.8 million, down 13.1%.

NEW YORK — Ikea has appointed McCann NY as the global agency of record for its catalogue. The agency will work with Ikea’s own communications team, ICOM, which is based at Ikea’s headquarters in Almhult, Sweden. McCann NY has been assigned nothing less than a “re-invention” of the Ikea catalogue by adding technology and storytelling. McCann NY will also work closely with ICOM to develop a global integrated campaign to support the launch. The Ikea catalogue is delivered to almost 210 million homes worldwide.

TORONTO — Home Depot Canada has introduced a new line of barbecues and grills. The “STŌK” line may sport a funky “euro” moniker, but it’s made by TTI on behalf of Home Depot Canada. The Quattro Grill, which has 450-square-inch grilling surface, also features interchangeable grilling inserts. They enable the user to change the grill grate to a pizza stone, griddle, vegetable tray, or other STŌK insert — something TTI claims is the first of its kind in the industry.

TOLEDO, OH — Owens Corning reported a consolidated net sales increase of 5% to $1.5 billion in the second quarter, compared with $1.4 billion in the second quarter of 2010. Net earnings were $78 million, or $0.62 per diluted share, compared with net earnings of $937 million, or $7.33 per diluted share. Net earnings benefited from the one-time reversal of a non-cash, $858 million accounting valuation allowance, which had been previously recorded against certain U.S. net deferred tax assets.

CORRECTION: In our July 25 edition, we misspelled Gino DiGioacchino’s name. With apologies — that this kind of error could get us de-listed as a Walmart vendor!

CORRECTION: In our July 11 edition, we incorrectly stated Peter Marks’ title: he’s in fact the chairman, president, and CEO of Robert Bosch LLC, the North American subsidiary of Bosch.

____________________________________

Make significant and measurable savings with OGC

_____________________________________

PEOPLE ON THE MOVE

At Canadian Technical Tape Ltd. and W. Ralston (Canada) Inc., Kim Whitehouse has been appointed national accounts manager for Ontario. Whitehouse has more than 20 years’ experience in the Canadian retail market and was previously with Domtar Construction Materials, Boyd Distributors, Henry-Bakor. Most recently he was with Ideal Industries Canada. (kwhitehouse@cttgroup.com ; 416-371-2305)

One of our favourite buyers, Jean Lamarche, has resurfaced after leaving RONA. He’s now serving as a consultant at Richelieu Hardware. Lamarche is well known for his stint as the director of purchasing for hardware, tools, storage, and automotive at RONA. Before that, he was part of the merchandising team at Réno-Dépôt and the Building Box.

____________________________________

_____________________________________

ECONOMIC INDICATORS

OTTAWA — Housing starts in July rose to 205,100 units, from 196,600 units seasonally adjusted in June. However, that growth came entirely from multiple starts in all regions except Quebec, and was especially strong in British Columbia and the Atlantic region. Urban starts showed a 4.7% seasonally adjusted increase overall, to 185,200 units, but of those, multiples were up by 13%, while urban single starts actually decreased by 7.8% in July. July’s seasonally adjusted annual rate of urban starts increased by 36.1% in the Atlantic region, by 33% in British Columbia, and by 1.7% in Ontario. Quebec posted a decrease of 7.8% over the same period, while urban starts decreased by 0.3% in the Prairie region. (CMHC)

The value of building permits issued in June reached $6.6 billion, up 2.1% from May (when growth was 20.9%). June’s increase was largely due to higher construction intentions for industrial and institutional buildings (+3%), especially in Ontario. Residential permits worth $3.7 billion were issued in June, up 1.5% from May. Single-family permits were up 3.4% to $2.2 billion, following a 4.8% decline in May. Construction intentions for multi-family dwellings decreased 1.0% to $1.5 billion in June, following a 22.6% advance in May — although they were up in British Columbia. The number of building permits issued for new homes was up 1.5% in June to 17,227. The increase came from single-family dwellings, which rose 4.7% to 6,946 units. The number of multi-family intentions edged down 0.5% to 10,281 units. (Stats Canada)

Following three consecutive months of increases, the unemployment rate in July declined by 0.2 percentage points to 7.2%, as fewer people participated in the labour market. Employment increased by 252,000 (+1.5%) compared with July 2010, with the growth in full time and among private-sector employees. Employment increased in construction, transportation and warehousing, and retail and wholesale trade. (Stats Canada)

_____________________________________

Thanks for joining us,
see you next year!

_____________________________________

NOTED …

Congratulations to Ron Van Pelt of Guardian, who is this week’s winner of a $25 gift card from Tim Horton’s for responding to our latest Quarterly Business Conditions Survey.

____________________________________

Back to top

IN THIS ISSUE:

• SUMMER PUBLISHING SCHEDULE
• Classified Ads of the week
• Other Hardlines Publications

_____________________________________

2011 Who’s Who
Directory

The Who’s Who Directory of over 75 of the top retail hardlines and home improvement customers in Canada is indispensable for anyone trying to expand their leads and understand who the top retail buyers are. Every sales team, every marketing research team, should have their own copies.

Subscriber Price: $209
Click here to order
and more information

_____________________________________

Hardlines
Home Improvement
Quarterly Magazine

HHIQ is your single source for insight, information and analysis about the competitive home improvement market you operate in.

Each issue will be a full-fledged report on the latest trends shaping home improvement retailing. It provides the latest strategic intelligence on the industry’s top retailers and suppliers — what they are doing to gain market share, strengthen their operations and improve their position in the marketplace.

Price: $25 per issue
Click here to order
and more information

_____________________________________

Hardlines
2011 Retail Report

Each year we round up all the information we have concerning the industry’s retail players. We draw from our vast information files and from our research in our very own HARDLINES Database. Then we cram it all into more than 150 slides in a PowerPoint Slide Presentation.

Subscriber Price: $679 per issue
Click here to pre-order
and for more information

_____________________________________

Hardlines Quarterly Report

HARDLINES Quarterly Report presents industry research and analyzes the trends that shape the hardware/home improvement industry in Canada. This final issue will bring you:

Top 10 Report:
Canada ’s leading home improvement retailers find strategies to cope with a slow economy.

Industry growth remains slow year-over-year
HARDLINES measures the size of the industry — and it’s not growing.

Economic Indicators:
Consumer confidence is down, housing is off, and competition is increasing. Where’s the good news?

The Buying Groups
The LBM buying groups have become more strategic, more aggressive, and more innovative — than ever before.

Quarterly Business Conditions Survey
Dealers report negative sales in the first quarter, with only slight improvement coming out of the second quarter.

Price: $199 per issue
Click here to order
and more information

_____________________________________

16th Annual
Hardlines Conference

TORONTO — The HARDLINES Conference will be held on Oct. 27 and 28 in Toronto. Now in its 16th year, it will provide valuable retail insights while giving delegates the opportunity to meet fellow dealers and suppliers face to face.

Featured speakers this year include experts on trends forecasting, global economic issues, expanding your target market, and how the growing “shop local” movement will help independents succeed in a big box world. Headliners include: Anthony Stokan, principal at Anthony Russell and Associates; Ken Jenkins, president of Castle Building Centres Group Ltd.; and Gina Schaefer, owner of seven Ace Hardware stores in the Washington, DC area, who will talk about the viability of urban hardware stores and the importance of the growing “shop local” movement.

Terry Davis, vice-president and COO of Home Hardware Stores Ltd., will offer insights into his company’s move to a more décor and style oriented approach to its product mix. Ira Kalish, director of Global Economics at Deloitte Research, and an expert on global economic issues, will speak on the effects of economic, demographic, and social trends on the global business environment.

The HARDLINES Conference will be held Oct. 27 and 28 at the Toronto Sheraton Airport Hotel in Toronto. It will offer an important forum for reaffirming professional connections – with special discounted pricing for independent dealers.  Click here for more information and to register.

_____________________________________

IN THIS ISSUE:

• SUMMER PUBLISHING SCHEDULE
• Classified Ads of the week
• Other Hardlines Publications

_____________________________________

2011 Who’s Who
Directory

The Who’s Who Directory of over 75 of the top retail hardlines and home improvement customers in Canada is indispensable for anyone trying to expand their leads and understand who the top retail buyers are. Every sales team, every marketing research team, should have their own copies.

Subscriber Price: $209
Click here to order
and more information

_____________________________________

Hardlines
Home Improvement
Quarterly Magazine

HHIQ is your single source for insight, information and analysis about the competitive home improvement market you operate in.

Each issue will be a full-fledged report on the latest trends shaping home improvement retailing. It provides the latest strategic intelligence on the industry’s top retailers and suppliers — what they are doing to gain market share, strengthen their operations and improve their position in the marketplace.

Price: $25 per issue
Click here to order
and more information

_____________________________________

Hardlines
2011 Retail Report

Each year we round up all the information we have concerning the industry’s retail players. We draw from our vast information files and from our research in our very own HARDLINES Database. Then we cram it all into more than 150 slides in a PowerPoint Slide Presentation.

Subscriber Price: $679 per issue
Click here to pre-order
and for more information

_____________________________________

Hardlines Quarterly Report

HARDLINES Quarterly Report presents industry research and analyzes the trends that shape the hardware/home improvement industry in Canada. This final issue will bring you:

Top 10 Report:
Canada ’s leading home improvement retailers find strategies to cope with a slow economy.

Industry growth remains slow year-over-year
HARDLINES measures the size of the industry — and it’s not growing.

Economic Indicators:
Consumer confidence is down, housing is off, and competition is increasing. Where’s the good news?

The Buying Groups
The LBM buying groups have become more strategic, more aggressive, and more innovative — than ever before.

Quarterly Business Conditions Survey
Dealers report negative sales in the first quarter, with only slight improvement coming out of the second quarter.

Price: $199 per issue
Click here to order
and more information

_____________________________________

16th Annual
Hardlines Conference

TORONTO — The HARDLINES Conference will be held on Oct. 27 and 28 in Toronto. Now in its 16th year, it will provide valuable retail insights while giving delegates the opportunity to meet fellow dealers and suppliers face to face.

Featured speakers this year include experts on trends forecasting, global economic issues, expanding your target market, and how the growing “shop local” movement will help independents succeed in a big box world. Headliners include: Anthony Stokan, principal at Anthony Russell and Associates; Ken Jenkins, president of Castle Building Centres Group Ltd.; and Gina Schaefer, owner of seven Ace Hardware stores in the Washington, DC area, who will talk about the viability of urban hardware stores and the importance of the growing “shop local” movement.

Terry Davis, vice-president and COO of Home Hardware Stores Ltd., will offer insights into his company’s move to a more décor and style oriented approach to its product mix. Ira Kalish, director of Global Economics at Deloitte Research, and an expert on global economic issues, will speak on the effects of economic, demographic, and social trends on the global business environment.

The HARDLINES Conference will be held Oct. 27 and 28 at the Toronto Sheraton Airport Hotel in Toronto. It will offer an important forum for reaffirming professional connections – with special discounted pricing for independent dealers.  Click here for more information and to register.

_____________________________________