• UFA takes broader approach to serving rural customer
• U.S. pro dealer tackles downturn with added services
• Sales of specialty products flourish for Home Hardware
• RONA continues expansion with mid-sized stores
• Westerners line up for Shanghai show
• Germany’s Praktiker improves cash flow, despite sales lag

“One part of knowledge consists in being ignorant of such things as are not worthy to be known.” —Crates (Greek philosopher, 4th century, B.C.)

UFA has already been retooling its farm and ranch format, which has been the centrepiece of its retail offering in rural Alberta. A store in Red Deer has become a flagship for the 35-store chain, with a larger footprint and wider “lifestyle” products for hunting, fishing and camping, plus a focused assortment of hardware and farm and ranch. The acquisition last year of a building supply dealer, Spruceland, in Fort McMurray, also fits the mix, riding the boom of Canada’s hottest market.

“UFA is now shifting from all things agro to a wider rural market,” says Thorsteinson. “Whether they’re farmers or townies, they are looking for a wider range of products and services.” UFA, he says, is well positioned to offer those products and services.

The result is UFA’s strategy of rural diversification. “We’ve been looking at that customer and we realized that there are lots of other dimensions that ruralites enjoy. We thought we could find new ways to cater to those dimensions,” Thorsteinson adds.

“The brand equity that UFA enjoys with the customers in rural markets is our calling card.”

Besides adding to the retail mix, UFA has recently launched a construction services division, as well. That operation is getting involved in a lot of rural projects. Through its construction activities, Thorsteinson says, UFA can be responsive to the rebuilding of the rural communities themselves.

Top.

Scherer Brothers has spent the past two years enduring an economy devastated by the plunge in housing – and the economic fallout that’s resulted from that tumble. Mark Scherer, president of Scherer Brothers, says preparing for a downturn requires careful planning – and tough choices. As margins fell and gas prices rose, deliveries were reconsidered to insure that each truck stayed as full as possible on each run. Staffing needs were reviewed, and weak employees were let go.

Scherer admits his company made some mistakes along the way, largely because no one anticipated just how bad things would get. As the number of independent yards in Minneapolis market has dwindled from 25 some 30 years ago, Scherer Brothers has endured – and prospered.

(Mark Scherer, president of Scherer Brothers, will be our keynote at this year’s Hardlines Conference, Oct. 23-24. No dealer serious about facing the challenges ahead can afford to miss this info-loaded presentation! Click here! —Michael)

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But paint is not the only line that’s seeing growth. Tapping into consumer demand for “green” products, Home has expanded its Natura range of sustainable and environmentally responsible offerings. Straus says new products, such as One Day Wood Restoration products, Laminate Floor Cleaner, and Natura Laundry Detergent, are showing great increases.

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GRIMSBY, ON — RONA inc., Canada’s largest home improvement retailer, opened a store here last week.

An existing RONA Cashway in nearby Beamsville will move its operations, including six staff, to the new store.

The new store combines a range of building materials, including finishing and specialized products, and boutiques for paint, lighting, storage, kitchen and bathroom, doors and windows. Services include kitchen design, flooring, lumber cutting, installation and financing services, and RONA’s Project Guide service, a concept offering specially-trained staff who guide customers through the different stages of specific renovation projects.

The store also features a contractor desk.

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“It is all the more important that in the international markets sales continue to rise at a double-digit rate,” said Praktiker’s chairman, Wolfgang Werner, in a prepared statement. The company’s sales in Germany have continued to erode, while its volume outside of that country increased by 16.7% in the first half of the year.

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• Lowe’s finalizes four more sites
• Hudson’s Bay Co. acquired by U.S. equity firm
• Backgrounder: how U.S. banners will fit with Hbc
• UFA acquires sporting goods chain
• Home Hardware turns in mid-year report card
• Canadian Tire unveils smaller, rural format
• OnSpeX opens new testing facility
• U.K. security show will get 2009 launch

“He who speaks the truth must have one foot in the stirrup.”
— Armenian proverb

Lowe’s first confirmed its plans to expand into Canada three years ago. That expansion was originally led by Doug Robinson, an American who had previously run the erstwhile Beaver Lumber chain. Robinson left Lowe’s suddenly for personal reasons in August 2007 and was immediately replaced by Don Stallings, formerly a regional vice-president of operations in Lowe’s south central division, based in Houston .

Lowe’s Canada is hiring for the new stores now, and expects to recruit about 115 people for each one.

Top.

Hbc was purchased, and taken private, back in 2006, by billionaire inventor Jerry Zucker. He fell victim to cancer and passed away in April, at the age of 58, leaving operation of the enterprise largely in the hands of his widow, Anita.

Under its new owners, Hbc will be added to NRDC’s other retail operations, Lord & Taylor, Fortunoff, and Creative Design Studios, under a new holding company called the Hudson’s Bay Trading Co. NRDC will pump US$500 million into the new combined company, which will comprise more than US$8 billion in retail sales, 75,000 employees, and 55 million square feet of retail space in both the U.S. and Canada.

Richard Baker will serve as CEO of the Hudson’s Bay Trading Company and will become the 38th governor of the Hudson’s Bay Co. NRDC had been a minority owner in Hbc, in partnership with the Zucker family, and Baker has been a member of the board since 2006.

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Creative Design Studios, the design and manufacturing division that’s also owned by NRDC, will expand its offerings in Hbc stores. These include the Peter Som collection, Kate Hill, and Context for women, plus the Black Brown 1826 men’s brand.

All the banners will be operated under a single holding company, the Hudson’s Bay Trading Co. The strategy of HBTC is to increase focus on The Bay department store business, with more emphasis on the customer, by offering better brands and better service.

Zellers will get a face-lift, too, with more branded apparel, improved customer service, and the planned rollout of new 125,000-square-foot prototype stores. The Home Outfitters home-enhancement chain will continue to offer its range of brands in kitchen, bath, and bed home furnishings.

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“UFA is a co-operative committed to fulfilling our mission of serving the people who live, work and play in rural communities,” says Dallas Thorsteinson, president and CEO of UFA. “The Wholesale Sports acquisition advances our strategy, while diversifying UFA’s business. We recognize that our ability to serve our traditional, core agricultural members and customers depends, in part, on diversifying beyond our traditional businesses.”

UFA’s 2007 revenues were more than $1.8 billion, ranking it among the 40 largest Alberta companies in terms of revenue, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers and Alberta Venture magazine. Estimated sales by its 35 farm and hardware outlets, plus one building supply yard in Fort McMurray, are estimated at more than $350 million, according to the HARDLINES Who’s Who.

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While retail sales information will not be available until the end of the year, the company confirms that shipments are up year-over-year. Straus points to activity within Home’s four distribution centres across the country, which, overall, are achieving fill rates exceeding the target of 95.3%. During the week of July 7, the Atlantic distribution centre in Debert, NS, processed a record number of pick lines in one week and total weight shipped year-to-date is up 16.6%. The central DC in St. Jacobs recorded the highest pick line day for a Tuesday in history on July 8, and the western DC in Wetaskiwin, AB, has been offering record high fill rates all spring and summer, says Straus.

Demand orders, a special-order service available to Home Hardware customers, has also been making gains. So far this year, orders are up 7.4%, and in June alone, they were up 15.0%, representing almost $2.2 million in demand orders last month.

“We are confident that the remainder of 2008 will bring new opportunities for growth as we look for innovative ways to remind Canadians that ‘help is close to home’,” Straus concludes, riffing on the company’s slogan.

(Based on data in the latest edition of our sister publication, Hardlines Quarterly Report. For more info on the report, click here. )

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HEARST & DEEP RIVER, ON — Canadian Tire opened the doors of its first two “small market stores” today in these northern Ontario communities. The stores are the first of four test locations planned for 2008 and feature an 18,000-square-foot Canadian Tire store, 5,300-square-foot Mark’s Work Wearhouse offering, a 7,000-square-foot Garden Centre, and will eventually have gas bars onsite.

With two stores now open and another two scheduled to open in Athabasca and Cochrane this fall, the small market store is designed to provide customers in smaller towns with a one-stop shopping experience, in outlets that will range 14,000-18,000 sq.ft. in size. “We have identified approximately 100 communities across Canada that we believe to be potential sites for this concept,” says Mike Arnett, president, Canadian Tire Retail.

The new small market stores will replace traditional Canadian Tire stores in some markets, and will represent new locations in others. They are expected to generate $5-$9 million annually.

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OnSpeX opens new global HQ and testing facility

OnSpeX’s newest facility is set up to test both domestic and globally sourced products and it coordinates services needed to evaluate products manufactured in China. It is also designed to meet the increasingly complex evaluation needs of ever-more complex products that serve multiple functions. “Many of today’s at-home products serve more than one purpose,” says Sue Dempsey, vice-president and general manager of OnSpeX. “For example, a gas grill may also come with accessories including sinks, refrigerators, and even lights.”

She also notes that consumers are demanding products that are energy efficient, and OnSpeX can measure and test for that, as well.

Top

• TSC opens prototype “green” store
• Hardlines Conference lines up key pro dealer, top green retailer
• Can-Save’s kitchen manufacturing catches on with dealers
• CGC challenges contractors to test their skills
• Home Depot has its share of “late-night news” dramas
• In tough times, brand loyalty matters

“I’m like everybody else, I watch things on TV.”
— Lou Reed (American musician, 1942- )

The second store to open – and the 40th in the chain – is in a former RONA location in Collingwood, ON, on the southwestern shores of Georgian Bay. “It was our first-ever retrofit,” says Hicks, “because we like to build them from the ground up.” This one, although smaller than usual, manages to incorporate most of the features of a typical TSC store, but with an important twist.

“It’s the test for our renewable energy strategy. We have a 12-solar panel grid, the first of its kind in Collingwood, to provide power for the store.” Hicks says the 2.4-kilowatt system actually tilts to follow the sun, for maximum efficiency. The store also uses turbines to harness wind power.

Inside the store, a showroom dedicated to sustainable energy features a range of products. But, because of TSC’s rural, farm-based market, the products are tailored for large-scale projects.

“Unlike urban customers, there’s more room, and more opportunity for long-term payback among our farm customers,” says Scott Bennett, director, business development at TSC. A former category manager at Canadian Tire, he’s been spearheading the company’s sustainability program for the past eight months. “For projects of the size we are selling, you need a site assessment,” he says.

TSC has partnered with Solara, a renewable energy company that specializes in assessments and installations. Three other stores – in Orangeville, Owen Sound, and Alliston – are currently being retrofitted to the same sustainability standards.

Top.

Anthony Stokan, retail consultant with Anthony Russell & Associates, will once again join the Conference to share his observations of the best – and worst – retailing he has encountered during his travels around the world.

The 2008 HARDLINES Conference will feature today’s leading retail minds. Speakers confirmed so far are: Greg Hicks, CFO of TSC Stores, London, Ontario; Chuck Cote, vice-president, UFA; Ray Griffith, president and CEO of Ace Hardware Corp.; Yves Gagnon, president and CEO of Groupe BMR; Ian Gray, president and CEO of LBMX; and Anthony Stokan, principal, Anthony Russell & Associates.

For more info on this year’s HARDLINES Conference, Oct. 23-24, 2008, call us at 416-489-3396 or click here.

The program has recently been expanded with more than 20 new cabinet configurations, including cabinets for nine-foot high ceilings. Vanities were recently added to the line as well. (Find Cabinetsmith at www.cabinetsmith.ca.)

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MISSISSAUGA , ON — CGC Inc., the maker of gypsum wallboard and related products, ceiling tile and grid, is sponsoring a “Beat the Pro Tour” for contractors in Ontario and Western Canada this summer. The program is being run through CGC’s gypsum supply dealer customers from July to October.

The Beat the Pro tour pits the pros, one-on-one, in contests at various GSD yards to see who can set the fastest time for a boarding or taping challenge. Professional contractors up for the challenge will compete to set the best time in categories like fastest boarder and fastest taper. Prizes are then awarded from the program’s co-sponsor, DeWalt.

The tour was launched at the London, ON Western Fair Sports Complex, and will stop at 60 locations across Canada. CGC expects participation from more than 2,000 professional contractors.

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The home-improvement giant has received unwanted publicity beyond the police blotter, too. In Waterford Township, MI, a former store supervisor is suing the retailer, under the Whistleblower Protection Act. The 36-year-old Michael Boyer claims the company fired him because he called the police about a burglar instead of confronting or physically restraining the alleged thief himself, according to a report by the Detroit News.

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In tough times, brand loyalty matters

“Over three-quarters of all luxury consumers are members of at least one loyalty program, so these programs have a powerful appeal to ‘affluents’. What luxury brands and retailers need to learn is the key attributes of their brand as viewed by their customers, so that they can design their loyalty program to appeal to their unique customer base,” she says.

Unity Marketing has released a new comprehensive report on brand loyalty called A Trend Report on Brand Loyalty Programs for Luxury Marketers. It offers intelligence about luxury consumers who join luxury programs and how such programs impact their brand choices and spending behaviour. It also includes an analysis of the best practices of the most successful loyalty programs. The report is available for $295. Click here for more info, or contact Pam Danziger at 717-336-1600; pam@unitymarketingonline.com .

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SALES AGENT NORTHERN ONTARIO

Colonial Elegance is looking for a Sales Agent for Northern Ontario. The ideal candidate will sell and promote all of Colonial Elegance’s products to building supply dealers across Northern Ontario.

The territory is already established and has great earning potential. The position includes selling and servicing existing accounts prospecting and adding new clients within the building supply industry. The agent will report to the Sales Director for Ontario.

Qualifications

• Strong communication skills both written and verbal
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office ie Excel Word Power Point Outlook
• Knowledge of Territory and clients
• 3-5 years of experience working as a sales agent at the dealer level
• Proven Sales record
• Ability to work little Supervision
• Vehicle required

Compensation:

Commission based position

Please forward resume to
Colonial Elegance Inc
C/O Brant Danard Regional Sales Director
3800 Du Tricententaire Blvd
Montreal QC
HIB 5T8
Fax 514 640 1744
Email : bdanard@colonialelegance.com

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______________________________________________________________________

HOME IMPROVEMENT BUYER REQUIRED!

DirectBuy, a successful buying group with over 150 locations in North America,
requires an intermediate to senior buyer for its Home Improvement division.

Responsible for the fastest growing category within the company, you are a seasoned
professional focused on aggressively growing this portfolio with unlimited boundaries!

Your negotiating skills and professionalism are well respected by your peers. Strong
vendor relationships with analytical and strategic planning help you execute your
business plan.

Your knowledge and supplier base will be a natural spring board for you to take on this exciting opportunity.

Your experience should include but not limited to anyone of the following categories
from kitchen cabinetry, windows or doors.

This full-time position is based in the Canadian head office (Toronto) and offers a very
competitive salary along with benefits.

For a confidential interview, please email your resume to uccgarry@rogers.com

Top
______________________________________________________________________

MASCO CANADA LIMITED, is one of Canada’s largest distributors, manufacturers, and marketers of residential and commercial plumbing products with facilities in London, St. Thomas, Brantford, and Mississauga. Our brands include Delta, Waltec, Brasscraft, and Master Plumber to mention a few. Masco Canada Limited is the Canadian plumbing division of Masco Corporation, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of brand name consumer products for the home and family. We have the following immediate opening:

MASCO CANADA – RETAIL SALES DIV., MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO

RETAIL ACCOUNT MANAGER

General Description:
Reporting to the Director of Sales, Home Centre Channel, Canada

Primary Responsibilities:

• Main MCPG Contact with several large retail customers
• Sales plan development for all product lines (Budget).
• Achieve account sales targets.
• Promotional planning and new product listings.
• Daily management of product lines and SKU maintenance.
• Implementation and execution of strategic plans.
• Agency co-ordination on service criteria with assigned customer base.
• Product forecasting.
• Monitor and analysis of POS results by account.
• Plan-o-gram development and implementation.
• Support Director of Sales, Home Centre Channel, on special projects as required.

Secondary Account Responsibilities:

• Competitive and market analysis.
• Monthly reporting on account activity.
• Planning and attending customer trade shows
• Cross departmental business development.

Project Teams or Special projects:

• New store setup captain on assigned customer base.
• Market study on new opportunities.
• Develop and implement new sales opportunities within the assigned customer base.

The successful candidate will have extensive product knowledge and customer relation skills gathered over 3 to 5 years of National or Regional account experience within the Home Improvement sector, along with a post secondary education are required.

Excellent communication skills are required.

Advanced level Microsoft Office skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Bilingual would be a major asset

If interested, please forward your resume to:recruiting@mascocanada.com
or FAX 519-659-1531

Top

______________________________________________________________________

TIM-BR MART Northeastern Ontario Dealer Development Manager

TIM-BR MART has an immediate opportunity for a Dealer Development Manager to serve the northeast region of Ontario. This position leverages a strong combination of retail, communication and collaboration skills. From a broad perspective, the role is to serve as the conduit between independent retail Dealers and TIM-BR MART.

Specifically, responsibilities include working with independent retail Dealers to help them strengthen their bottom line and benefit from various programs and services available through TIM-BR MART. An understanding of the independent retailers’ business model, the ability to lead and educate Dealers and their staff, and collaborate with peers across the country to share best practices are imperative.

The landscape of the building materials industry is constantly evolving. The consumer is more informed, the competition is more sophisticated, and the independent retailer needs constant innovation and relevance to stay competitive. Understanding how retailers, contractors and homeowners think and make decisions and an appetite to stay on top of trends and the competitive landscape are vital to this role. Travel and the ability to both use and teach technology tools are necessary.

TIM-BR MART is one of Canada’s largest co-operative building material buying groups. Owned by its members, which represent over 650 locations, $2 billion in purchases and $3.6 billion in retail sales, TIM-BR MART is the buying group of choice for independent retailers, commercial dealers and manufacturers. We do this by combining volume to purchase at the lowest cost, understanding the needs of our Dealers, and providing a menu of value-added services.

Email resume in confidence to: careers@timbrmart.ca

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______________________________________________________________________

Better Living Products is a dynamic, successful organization that continues to grow internationally and is looking to expand our sales team. Located in Woodbridge, Ontario Better Living Products is an international manufacturer and distributor of bath & shower organizational products to the retail trade, and pioneers of the original award-winning shower organizer The Dispenser TM.

Our plans to introduce a whole new range of European designed unique and innovative products to North America has opened up immediate positions in our sales and marketing department. We are currently seeking to fill the following positions:

National Account Manager to assist us in achieving our aggressive growth plans by managing specific accounts and channels within Canada and the USA. The successful candidate will possess 3-5 years account management experience and demonstrates exceptional interpersonal, communication and analytical skills. Experience with Mass Merchandise retailers is preferred. This is an intermediate position.

Sales Assistant  to support us with administrative duties, trade shows, sales analysis, forecasting, planograms, direct marketing campaigns, new product launches and other sales & marketing related projects. Excellent communication and proficient computer skills is required.

Both positions will be based at our world-wide corporate headquarters in Woodbridge, Ontario. We offer competitive wages, benefits and a fun working environment. Please submit your resumé and salary expectations to Camillo Caperchione, Executive Vice President, Better Living Products, Telephone: 905-264-7100 Fax: 905-264-3690 Email: camillo@dispenser.com

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______________________________________________________________________

Did your email system make this newsletter unreadable?
You can read it online instead. call us to find out how.

Publishing Details:
HARDLINES is published weekly (except monthly in December and August) by
HARDLINES Inc.
360 Dupont Street
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5R 1V 9
© 2008 by HARDLINES Inc.
HARDLINES™ the electronic newsletter www.HARDLINES.ca ;
Phone: 416.489.3396; Fax: 416.489.6154

Michael McLarney – President – mike@HARDLINES.ca
Beverly Allen, Publisher – bev@HARDLINES.ca
Brady Peever – Circulation Manager – brady@HARDLINES.ca
Barb Hills – Sales Manager – barb@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.

Top

• IRLY celebrates 45th anniversary with consumer giveaway
• Hardlines Conference lines up key pro dealer, top green retailer
• BMF acquires fixturing competitor, signs distribution deal
• Former Home Depot buyer pleads guilty to kickbacks
• Fraudulent card use puts retailers on alert

“The most fatal illusion is the settled point of view. Since life is growth
and motion, a fixed point of view kills anybody who has one.”
— Brooks Atkinson (American critic and essayist, 1894-1984)

The contest began in May, coinciding with the creation of IRLY — which stands for Independent Retail Lumber Yards — in May 1963. The group was established by four independent dealers in the Vancouver area (including Kerrisdale Lumber, shown here), who wanted to remain competitive. Unlike other buying groups, IRLY set up its own distribution arm. Originally located in New Westminster, the warehouse and head offices soon moved to its current location in Surrey.

In the early days, the group’s members flew the IRLY Bird banner, and IRLY’s distinctive bird has left the company’s signage, but remains as its mascot, “so he’s still part of our promotions at store level,” says Brownlow.

IRLY’s birthday celebrations coincide with some important changes to management. Susan Robinson has been appointed to the newly created role of president and CEO, starting today. In addition, Garry Anderson, formerly general manager, has been promoted to vice-president, operations (see companies in the news).

Growth will be a key mandate of the group under new leadership. IRLY has recently expanded its dealer development team (see our March 3, 2008 issue–Editor) and its partnership with another LBM buying group, TIM-BR MART, has given it access to more potential customers for IRLY’s Western Hardware division. This business sells to independent dealers who are not IRLY members. According to Brownlow, since the partnership was forged at the beginning of this year, a number of TIM-BR MART dealers have become customers of Western. In fact, the total number of dealers served by Western Hardware has grown from about 100 in 2006 to more than 140 today.

Top.

WORLD HQ — What are the success secrets of North America’s top retailers? The home improvement industry will gather to find out at the 13^th Annual HARDLINES Conference, Oct. 23-24, 2008.

There, the industry’s top executives will learn how TSC Stores added seven stores and increased sales by 40% in one year. They’ll find out how UFA Co-operative has built its farm and hardware business through innovation, new store formats and an acquisition. Vendors and retailers alike will gather to hear how Groupe BMR has reinvented itself from an LBM buying group to a full-service support entity for both hardware and building materials retailers.

Ray Civello, Founder and president of the Civello Salon Spa Group and Collega International, Distributor of Aveda Products, will describe how Aveda grew to be one of the most respected brands in North America, while maintaining a leadership role as a model for sustainable business practices.

But case studies from top retailers will be just part the next HARDLINES Conference. Analysis and understanding of the trends driving success – or impeding it – will be central to the Conference experience. Dr. Kyle Murray, Director of the School of Retailing and an Associate Professor of Marketing in the School of Business at the University of Alberta, will join the Conference this year. His research centres around the mind of the consumer, and what motivates them to spend the way that they do.

Anthony Stokan, retail consultant with Anthony Russell & Associates, will once again join the Conference to share his observations of the best – and worst – retailing he has encountered during his travels around the world.

The 2008 HARDLINES Conference will feature today’s leading retail minds. Speakers confirmed so far are: Greg Hicks, CFO of TSC Stores, London, Ontario; Chuck Cote, vice-president, UFA; Ray Griffith, president and CEO of Ace Hardware Corp.; Yves Gagnon, president and CEO of Groupe BMR; Ian Gray, president and CEO of LBMX; and Anthony Stokan, principal, Anthony Russell & Associates.

For more info on this year’s HARDLINES Conference, Oct. 23-24, 2008, call us at 416-489-3396 or click here.

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BURLINGTON, ON — Burlington Merchandising and Fixtures has acquired the assets of Cambridge, ON-based The Store Fixture Group. The deal includes all of the racking, equipment and inventory in its 30,000-square-foot warehouse, which has now been re-installed in BMF’s facility in Burlington.

According to Rob Wilbrink, president of BMF, “This gives us an important hedge against the escalating price of steel which is impacting all store fixture manufacturers.” The cost of raw steel has more than doubled in the past six months.

BMF’s expansion efforts include the addition of a new fixturing line. It has negotiated with Madix Inc. of Terrell, TX to acquire the right to distribute Madix store fixtures to the hardware and home improvement industry in Canada. The Store Fixture Group previously had an exclusive agreement for all Madix distribution into the Canadian market. Madix is reportedly the second-largest brand name of store fixtures in North America. Canadian clients include Home Depot, Sobey’s, Loblaws and Business Depot. In the U.S., Madix supplies Ace Hardware, Do it Best and Home Depot.

In addition to the Madix line, BMF will continue to carry Storflex shelving, a line it acquired the exclusive distribution rights for in 2006. These fixtures have already been installed in nearly 30 building centres across Canada.

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The 42-year-old Tesvich could face 20 years in prison on the conspiracy count and another 15 on the tax evasion charges. Tesvich admitted to evading federal taxes on his ill-gotten income for tax years 2003 ($212,937 in unpaid taxes); 2004 ($821,981); and 2005 ($386,997).

Top

HOME IMPROVEMENT BUYER REQUIRED!

DirectBuy, a successful buying group with over 150 locations in North America,
requires an intermediate to senior buyer for its Home Improvement division.

Responsible for the fastest growing category within the company, you are a seasoned
professional focused on aggressively growing this portfolio with unlimited boundaries!

Your negotiating skills and professionalism are well respected by your peers. Strong
vendor relationships with analytical and strategic planning help you execute your
business plan.

Your knowledge and supplier base will be a natural spring board for you to take on this exciting opportunity.

Your experience should include but not limited to anyone of the following categories
from kitchen cabinetry, windows or doors.

This full-time position is based in the Canadian head office (Toronto) and offers a very
competitive salary along with benefits.

For a confidential interview, please email your resume to uccgarry@rogers.com
______________________________________________________________________

MASCO CANADA LIMITED, is one of Canada’s largest distributors, manufacturers, and marketers of residential and commercial plumbing products with facilities in London, St. Thomas, Brantford, and Mississauga. Our brands include Delta, Waltec, Brasscraft, and Master Plumber to mention a few. Masco Canada Limited is the Canadian plumbing division of Masco Corporation, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of brand name consumer products for the home and family. We have the following immediate opening:

MASCO CANADA – RETAIL SALES DIV., MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO

RETAIL ACCOUNT MANAGER

General Description:
Reporting to the Director of Sales, Home Centre Channel, Canada

Primary Responsibilities:

• Main MCPG Contact with several large retail customers
• Sales plan development for all product lines (Budget).
• Achieve account sales targets.
• Promotional planning and new product listings.
• Daily management of product lines and SKU maintenance.
• Implementation and execution of strategic plans.
• Agency co-ordination on service criteria with assigned customer base.
• Product forecasting.
• Monitor and analysis of POS results by account.
• Plan-o-gram development and implementation.
• Support Director of Sales, Home Centre Channel, on special projects as required.

Secondary Account Responsibilities:

• Competitive and market analysis.
• Monthly reporting on account activity.
• Planning and attending customer trade shows
• Cross departmental business development.

Project Teams or Special projects:

• New store setup captain on assigned customer base.
• Market study on new opportunities.
• Develop and implement new sales opportunities within the assigned customer base.

The successful candidate will have extensive product knowledge and customer relation skills gathered over 3 to 5 years of National or Regional account experience within the Home Improvement sector, along with a post secondary education are required.

Excellent communication skills are required.

Advanced level Microsoft Office skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Bilingual would be a major asset

If interested, please forward your resume to:recruiting@mascocanada.com
or FAX 519-659-1531

Top

______________________________________________________________________

TIM-BR MART Northeastern Ontario Dealer Development Manager

TIM-BR MART has an immediate opportunity for a Dealer Development Manager to serve the northeast region of Ontario. This position leverages a strong combination of retail, communication and collaboration skills. From a broad perspective, the role is to serve as the conduit between independent retail Dealers and TIM-BR MART.

Specifically, responsibilities include working with independent retail Dealers to help them strengthen their bottom line and benefit from various programs and services available through TIM-BR MART. An understanding of the independent retailers’ business model, the ability to lead and educate Dealers and their staff, and collaborate with peers across the country to share best practices are imperative.

The landscape of the building materials industry is constantly evolving. The consumer is more informed, the competition is more sophisticated, and the independent retailer needs constant innovation and relevance to stay competitive. Understanding how retailers, contractors and homeowners think and make decisions and an appetite to stay on top of trends and the competitive landscape are vital to this role. Travel and the ability to both use and teach technology tools are necessary.

TIM-BR MART is one of Canada’s largest co-operative building material buying groups. Owned by its members, which represent over 650 locations, $2 billion in purchases and $3.6 billion in retail sales, TIM-BR MART is the buying group of choice for independent retailers, commercial dealers and manufacturers. We do this by combining volume to purchase at the lowest cost, understanding the needs of our Dealers, and providing a menu of value-added services.

Email resume in confidence to: careers@timbrmart.ca

Top

______________________________________________________________________

Better Living Products is a dynamic, successful organization that continues to grow internationally and is looking to expand our sales team. Located in Woodbridge, Ontario Better Living Products is an international manufacturer and distributor of bath & shower organizational products to the retail trade, and pioneers of the original award-winning shower organizer The Dispenser TM.

Our plans to introduce a whole new range of European designed unique and innovative products to North America has opened up immediate positions in our sales and marketing department. We are currently seeking to fill the following positions:

National Account Manager to assist us in achieving our aggressive growth plans by managing specific accounts and channels within Canada and the USA. The successful candidate will possess 3-5 years account management experience and demonstrates exceptional interpersonal, communication and analytical skills. Experience with Mass Merchandise retailers is preferred. This is an intermediate position.

Sales Assistant to support us with administrative duties, trade shows, sales analysis, forecasting, planograms, direct marketing campaigns, new product launches and other sales & marketing related projects. Excellent communication and proficient computer skills is required.

Both positions will be based at our world-wide corporate headquarters in Woodbridge, Ontario. We offer competitive wages, benefits and a fun working environment. Please submit your resumé and salary expectations to Camillo Caperchione, Executive Vice President, Better Living Products, Telephone: 905-264-7100 Fax: 905-264-3690 Email: camillo@dispenser.com

Top

_____________________________________________________________________

Did your email system make this newsletter unreadable?
You can read it online instead. call us to find out how.

Publishing Details:
HARDLINES is published weekly (except monthly in December and August) by
HARDLINES Inc.
360 Dupont Street
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5R 1V 9
© 2008 by HARDLINES Inc.
HARDLINES™ the electronic newsletter www.HARDLINES.ca ;
Phone: 416.489.3396; Fax: 416.489.6154

Michael McLarney – President – mike@HARDLINES.ca
Beverly Allen, Publisher – bev@HARDLINES.ca
Brady Peever – Circulation Manager – brady@HARDLINES.ca
Barb Hills – Sales Manager – barb@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.

Top

• IRLY celebrates 45th anniversary with consumer giveaway
• Hardlines Conference lines up key pro dealer, top green retailer
• BMF acquires fixturing competitor, signs distribution deal
• Former Home Depot buyer pleads guilty to kickbacks
• Fraudulent card use puts retailers on alert

“The most fatal illusion is the settled point of view. Since life is growth
and motion, a fixed point of view kills anybody who has one.”
— Brooks Atkinson (American critic and essayist, 1894-1984)

The contest began in May, coinciding with the creation of IRLY — which stands for Independent Retail Lumber Yards — in May 1963. The group was established by four independent dealers in the Vancouver area (including Kerrisdale Lumber, shown here), who wanted to remain competitive. Unlike other buying groups, IRLY set up its own distribution arm. Originally located in New Westminster, the warehouse and head offices soon moved to its current location in Surrey.

In the early days, the group’s members flew the IRLY Bird banner, and IRLY’s distinctive bird has left the company’s signage, but remains as its mascot, “so he’s still part of our promotions at store level,” says Brownlow.

IRLY’s birthday celebrations coincide with some important changes to management. Susan Robinson has been appointed to the newly created role of president and CEO, starting today. In addition, Garry Anderson, formerly general manager, has been promoted to vice-president, operations (see companies in the news).

Growth will be a key mandate of the group under new leadership. IRLY has recently expanded its dealer development team (see our March 3, 2008 issue–Editor) and its partnership with another LBM buying group, TIM-BR MART, has given it access to more potential customers for IRLY’s Western Hardware division. This business sells to independent dealers who are not IRLY members. According to Brownlow, since the partnership was forged at the beginning of this year, a number of TIM-BR MART dealers have become customers of Western. In fact, the total number of dealers served by Western Hardware has grown from about 100 in 2006 to more than 140 today.

Top.

WORLD HQ — What are the success secrets of North America’s top retailers? The home improvement industry will gather to find out at the 13^th Annual HARDLINES Conference, Oct. 23-24, 2008.

There, the industry’s top executives will learn how TSC Stores added seven stores and increased sales by 40% in one year. They’ll find out how UFA Co-operative has built its farm and hardware business through innovation, new store formats and an acquisition. Vendors and retailers alike will gather to hear how Groupe BMR has reinvented itself from an LBM buying group to a full-service support entity for both hardware and building materials retailers.

Ray Civello, Founder and president of the Civello Salon Spa Group and Collega International, Distributor of Aveda Products, will describe how Aveda grew to be one of the most respected brands in North America, while maintaining a leadership role as a model for sustainable business practices.

But case studies from top retailers will be just part the next HARDLINES Conference. Analysis and understanding of the trends driving success – or impeding it – will be central to the Conference experience. Dr. Kyle Murray, Director of the School of Retailing and an Associate Professor of Marketing in the School of Business at the University of Alberta, will join the Conference this year. His research centres around the mind of the consumer, and what motivates them to spend the way that they do.

Anthony Stokan, retail consultant with Anthony Russell & Associates, will once again join the Conference to share his observations of the best – and worst – retailing he has encountered during his travels around the world.

The 2008 HARDLINES Conference will feature today’s leading retail minds. Speakers confirmed so far are: Greg Hicks, CFO of TSC Stores, London, Ontario; Chuck Cote, vice-president, UFA; Ray Griffith, president and CEO of Ace Hardware Corp.; Yves Gagnon, president and CEO of Groupe BMR; Ian Gray, president and CEO of LBMX; and Anthony Stokan, principal, Anthony Russell & Associates.

For more info on this year’s HARDLINES Conference, Oct. 23-24, 2008, call us at 416-489-3396 or click here.

Top

BURLINGTON, ON — Burlington Merchandising and Fixtures has acquired the assets of Cambridge, ON-based The Store Fixture Group. The deal includes all of the racking, equipment and inventory in its 30,000-square-foot warehouse, which has now been re-installed in BMF’s facility in Burlington.

According to Rob Wilbrink, president of BMF, “This gives us an important hedge against the escalating price of steel which is impacting all store fixture manufacturers.” The cost of raw steel has more than doubled in the past six months.

BMF’s expansion efforts include the addition of a new fixturing line. It has negotiated with Madix Inc. of Terrell, TX to acquire the right to distribute Madix store fixtures to the hardware and home improvement industry in Canada. The Store Fixture Group previously had an exclusive agreement for all Madix distribution into the Canadian market. Madix is reportedly the second-largest brand name of store fixtures in North America. Canadian clients include Home Depot, Sobey’s, Loblaws and Business Depot. In the U.S., Madix supplies Ace Hardware, Do it Best and Home Depot.

In addition to the Madix line, BMF will continue to carry Storflex shelving, a line it acquired the exclusive distribution rights for in 2006. These fixtures have already been installed in nearly 30 building centres across Canada.

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The 42-year-old Tesvich could face 20 years in prison on the conspiracy count and another 15 on the tax evasion charges. Tesvich admitted to evading federal taxes on his ill-gotten income for tax years 2003 ($212,937 in unpaid taxes); 2004 ($821,981); and 2005 ($386,997).

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HOME IMPROVEMENT BUYER REQUIRED!

DirectBuy, a successful buying group with over 150 locations in North America,
requires an intermediate to senior buyer for its Home Improvement division.

Responsible for the fastest growing category within the company, you are a seasoned
professional focused on aggressively growing this portfolio with unlimited boundaries!

Your negotiating skills and professionalism are well respected by your peers. Strong
vendor relationships with analytical and strategic planning help you execute your
business plan.

Your knowledge and supplier base will be a natural spring board for you to take on this exciting opportunity.

Your experience should include but not limited to anyone of the following categories
from kitchen cabinetry, windows or doors.

This full-time position is based in the Canadian head office (Toronto) and offers a very
competitive salary along with benefits.

For a confidential interview, please email your resume to uccgarry@rogers.com
______________________________________________________________________

MASCO CANADA LIMITED, is one of Canada’s largest distributors, manufacturers, and marketers of residential and commercial plumbing products with facilities in London, St. Thomas, Brantford, and Mississauga. Our brands include Delta, Waltec, Brasscraft, and Master Plumber to mention a few. Masco Canada Limited is the Canadian plumbing division of Masco Corporation, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of brand name consumer products for the home and family. We have the following immediate opening:

MASCO CANADA – RETAIL SALES DIV., MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO

RETAIL ACCOUNT MANAGER

General Description:
Reporting to the Director of Sales, Home Centre Channel, Canada

Primary Responsibilities:

• Main MCPG Contact with several large retail customers
• Sales plan development for all product lines (Budget).
• Achieve account sales targets.
• Promotional planning and new product listings.
• Daily management of product lines and SKU maintenance.
• Implementation and execution of strategic plans.
• Agency co-ordination on service criteria with assigned customer base.
• Product forecasting.
• Monitor and analysis of POS results by account.
• Plan-o-gram development and implementation.
• Support Director of Sales, Home Centre Channel, on special projects as required.

Secondary Account Responsibilities:

• Competitive and market analysis.
• Monthly reporting on account activity.
• Planning and attending customer trade shows
• Cross departmental business development.

Project Teams or Special projects:

• New store setup captain on assigned customer base.
• Market study on new opportunities.
• Develop and implement new sales opportunities within the assigned customer base.

The successful candidate will have extensive product knowledge and customer relation skills gathered over 3 to 5 years of National or Regional account experience within the Home Improvement sector, along with a post secondary education are required.

Excellent communication skills are required.

Advanced level Microsoft Office skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Bilingual would be a major asset

If interested, please forward your resume to:recruiting@mascocanada.com
or FAX 519-659-1531

Top

______________________________________________________________________

TIM-BR MART Northeastern Ontario Dealer Development Manager

TIM-BR MART has an immediate opportunity for a Dealer Development Manager to serve the northeast region of Ontario. This position leverages a strong combination of retail, communication and collaboration skills. From a broad perspective, the role is to serve as the conduit between independent retail Dealers and TIM-BR MART.

Specifically, responsibilities include working with independent retail Dealers to help them strengthen their bottom line and benefit from various programs and services available through TIM-BR MART. An understanding of the independent retailers’ business model, the ability to lead and educate Dealers and their staff, and collaborate with peers across the country to share best practices are imperative.

The landscape of the building materials industry is constantly evolving. The consumer is more informed, the competition is more sophisticated, and the independent retailer needs constant innovation and relevance to stay competitive. Understanding how retailers, contractors and homeowners think and make decisions and an appetite to stay on top of trends and the competitive landscape are vital to this role. Travel and the ability to both use and teach technology tools are necessary.

TIM-BR MART is one of Canada’s largest co-operative building material buying groups. Owned by its members, which represent over 650 locations, $2 billion in purchases and $3.6 billion in retail sales, TIM-BR MART is the buying group of choice for independent retailers, commercial dealers and manufacturers. We do this by combining volume to purchase at the lowest cost, understanding the needs of our Dealers, and providing a menu of value-added services.

Email resume in confidence to: careers@timbrmart.ca

Top

______________________________________________________________________

Better Living Products is a dynamic, successful organization that continues to grow internationally and is looking to expand our sales team. Located in Woodbridge, Ontario Better Living Products is an international manufacturer and distributor of bath & shower organizational products to the retail trade, and pioneers of the original award-winning shower organizer The Dispenser TM.

Our plans to introduce a whole new range of European designed unique and innovative products to North America has opened up immediate positions in our sales and marketing department. We are currently seeking to fill the following positions:

National Account Manager to assist us in achieving our aggressive growth plans by managing specific accounts and channels within Canada and the USA. The successful candidate will possess 3-5 years account management experience and demonstrates exceptional interpersonal, communication and analytical skills. Experience with Mass Merchandise retailers is preferred. This is an intermediate position.

Sales Assistant to support us with administrative duties, trade shows, sales analysis, forecasting, planograms, direct marketing campaigns, new product launches and other sales & marketing related projects. Excellent communication and proficient computer skills is required.

Both positions will be based at our world-wide corporate headquarters in Woodbridge, Ontario. We offer competitive wages, benefits and a fun working environment. Please submit your resumé and salary expectations to Camillo Caperchione, Executive Vice President, Better Living Products, Telephone: 905-264-7100 Fax: 905-264-3690 Email: camillo@dispenser.com

Top

_____________________________________________________________________

Did your email system make this newsletter unreadable?
You can read it online instead. call us to find out how.

Publishing Details:
HARDLINES is published weekly (except monthly in December and August) by
HARDLINES Inc.
360 Dupont Street
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5R 1V 9
© 2008 by HARDLINES Inc.
HARDLINES™ the electronic newsletter www.HARDLINES.ca ;
Phone: 416.489.3396; Fax: 416.489.6154

Michael McLarney – President – mike@HARDLINES.ca
Beverly Allen, Publisher – bev@HARDLINES.ca
Brady Peever – Circulation Manager – brady@HARDLINES.ca
Barb Hills – Sales Manager – barb@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.

Top

• RONA initiates recycled paint program in Ontario
• Going green can be good for business
• Home Depot U.S. will recycle compact fluorescent bulbs
• Price slashing still can’t spur U.S. home sales
• Classified ads

“When I see an adult on a bicycle I do not despair for the future of the human race.” — H.G. Wells (English writer, 1866-1946)

BOUCHERVILLE, QC — RONA inc. is finally launching its used paint recovery program into its stores in Ontario, beginning July 1. The program, which has run in Quebec for 10 years, was held up in Ontario by legalities.

 RONA is the first retailer to recover paint in Ontario following the passing of a new Municipal Hazardous or Special Waste (MHSW) Program Plan. The MHSW program is being implemented by Stewardship Ontario, an industry organization that developed the plan, in conjunction with Waste Diversion Ontario, an organization set up by the provincial government to oversee waste diversion programs in Ontario.

“This new program … will help ensure that consumer products such as leftover paints and solvents are collected so they can be reused and recycled,” said Glenda Gies, executive director of Waste Diversion Ontario in a prepared release. “RONA is playing an important role by accepting leftover paint at their Ontario retail locations.”

From collection points at all RONA stores (except its Botanix garden centres) across Ontario, the old paint and containers are then sent to its Boucherville distribution centre. From there, the old paint is sent to Peintures récupérées du Quebec, which manages the program under its “Boomerang” paint brand. About 80% of the old paint is reconditioned and put back on the market. Leftover latex and alkyd paint, stain and varnish are all accepted in the recovery and recycling program.

Top.

Lawrence has been traveling the world for years in search of environmentally aware companies that can provide products made from materials, such as certified hardwoods from developing countries, that will meet her rigorous standards. She can’t always determine for herself the provenance of many of these products and materials, and noted a number of agencies, such as FSC, which perform third-party testing and certification. Lawrence added that many of the relationships she established years ago remain strong today.

But sustainable products aren’t restricted to the garden and yard. Johns Manville Canada took that pro-active approach years ago when it reformulated its batt insulation to eliminate formaldehyde in it. That step is proving a powerful one for the company, as more and more architects are looking to spec “green” products to meet ever-tightening standards and codes for green building.

According to Gino Allegro, Canadian regional sales manager for JM Canada, “Green will become a true measured standard. It’s not just going to be the flavour of the month.”

Missed the Webinar?
You can order a copy on CD-ROM.
Click here for more info!

Top

Ron Jarvis, the retailer’s senior vice-president of environmental innovation, said in a prepared statement that 75% of the households in America live within 10 miles of a Home Depot store. Last year, Home Depot’s stores sold 75 million CFLs, a 50% increase over 2006 sales.

Home Depot has also started changing out the bulbs in its stores’ lighting departments to CFLs, a move that should be completed by this fall and is expected to save the company $16 million in energy costs annually. Even before this move, Home Depot had ordered its stores to reduce the number of lights that were illuminated in fixtures in those departments to cut down on energy.

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One glimmer of hope can be found in the 16.9% drop in the number of new homes for sale, to a seasonally adjusted annualized rate of 453,000 units in May. Most builders have all but stopped building “spec” homes (i.e., homes that don’t have buyers), and, in markets like southern California, have reduced their inventories of unsold homes to around three months’ supply.

However, two big problems loom over the housing industry: foreclosures and the credit crunch. There are more than one million foreclosed homes on the market right now, many of them owned by banks that are doing anything they can to get them off their books. In Sacramento, CA, for example, an interested buyer could purchase a 1,600-square-foot house on a 5,500-square-foot lot — which during boom times might have sold for $300,000 — for under $90,000, according to Greg Paquin, president of The Gregory Group, a consultant and market tracker there.

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MASCO CANADA LIMITED, is one of Canada’s largest distributors, manufacturers, and marketers of residential and commercial plumbing products with facilities in London, St. Thomas, Brantford, and Mississauga. Our brands include Delta, Waltec, Brasscraft, and Master Plumber to mention a few. Masco Canada Limited is the Canadian plumbing division of Masco Corporation, one of the world’s largest manufacturers of brand name consumer products for the home and family. We have the following immediate opening:

MASCO CANADA – RETAIL SALES DIV., MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO

RETAIL ACCOUNT MANAGER

General Description:
Reporting to the Director of Sales, Home Centre Channel, Canada

Primary Responsibilities:

• Main MCPG Contact with several large retail customers
• Sales plan development for all product lines (Budget).
• Achieve account sales targets.
• Promotional planning and new product listings.
• Daily management of product lines and SKU maintenance.
• Implementation and execution of strategic plans.
• Agency co-ordination on service criteria with assigned customer base.
• Product forecasting.
• Monitor and analysis of POS results by account.
• Plan-o-gram development and implementation.
• Support Director of Sales, Home Centre Channel, on special projects as required.

Secondary Account Responsibilities:

• Competitive and market analysis.
• Monthly reporting on account activity.
• Planning and attending customer trade shows
• Cross departmental business development.

Project Teams or Special projects:

• New store setup captain on assigned customer base.
• Market study on new opportunities.
• Develop and implement new sales opportunities within the assigned customer base.

The successful candidate will have extensive product knowledge and customer relation skills gathered over 3 to 5 years of National or Regional account experience within the Home Improvement sector, along with a post secondary education are required.

Excellent communication skills are required.

Advanced level Microsoft Office skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Bilingual would be a major asset

If interested, please forward your resume to:recruiting@mascocanada.com
or FAX 519-659-1531

Top

______________________________________________________________________

TIM-BR MART Northeastern Ontario Dealer Development Manager

TIM-BR MART has an immediate opportunity for a Dealer Development Manager to serve the northeast region of Ontario. This position leverages a strong combination of retail, communication and collaboration skills. From a broad perspective, the role is to serve as the conduit between independent retail Dealers and TIM-BR MART.

Specifically, responsibilities include working with independent retail Dealers to help them strengthen their bottom line and benefit from various programs and services available through TIM-BR MART. An understanding of the independent retailers’ business model, the ability to lead and educate Dealers and their staff, and collaborate with peers across the country to share best practices are imperative.

The landscape of the building materials industry is constantly evolving. The consumer is more informed, the competition is more sophisticated, and the independent retailer needs constant innovation and relevance to stay competitive. Understanding how retailers, contractors and homeowners think and make decisions and an appetite to stay on top of trends and the competitive landscape are vital to this role. Travel and the ability to both use and teach technology tools are necessary.

TIM-BR MART is one of Canada’s largest co-operative building material buying groups. Owned by its members, which represent over 650 locations, $2 billion in purchases and $3.6 billion in retail sales, TIM-BR MART is the buying group of choice for independent retailers, commercial dealers and manufacturers. We do this by combining volume to purchase at the lowest cost, understanding the needs of our Dealers, and providing a menu of value-added services.

Email resume in confidence to: careers@timbrmart.ca

Top

______________________________________________________________________

Better Living Products is a dynamic, successful organization that continues to grow internationally and is looking to expand our sales team. Located in Woodbridge, Ontario Better Living Products is an international manufacturer and distributor of bath & shower organizational products to the retail trade, and pioneers of the original award-winning shower organizer The Dispenser TM.

Our plans to introduce a whole new range of European designed unique and innovative products to North America has opened up immediate positions in our sales and marketing department. We are currently seeking to fill the following positions:

National Account Manager to assist us in achieving our aggressive growth plans by managing specific accounts and channels within Canada and the USA. The successful candidate will possess 3-5 years account management experience and demonstrates exceptional interpersonal, communication and analytical skills. Experience with Mass Merchandise retailers is preferred. This is an intermediate position.

Sales Assistant to support us with administrative duties, trade shows, sales analysis, forecasting, planograms, direct marketing campaigns, new product launches and other sales & marketing related projects. Excellent communication and proficient computer skills is required.

Both positions will be based at our world-wide corporate headquarters in Woodbridge, Ontario. We offer competitive wages, benefits and a fun working environment. Please submit your resumé and salary expectations to Camillo Caperchione, Executive Vice President, Better Living Products, Telephone: 905-264-7100 Fax: 905-264-3690 Email: camillo@dispenser.com

Top

_____________________________________________________________________

Sales Representative

Can-Save
Position: Sales Representative (Ottawa & Kingston area)
Location: Eastern Ontario, Start Date: Immediately
Company Information: www.can-save.ca
Can-Save, a progressive building materials distributor – specializing in specialty building products, doors, and kitchen and bath cabinets, has an immediate opening for an Outside Sales Representative for its Eastern Ontario territory

The successful candidate will:

• Have a proven successful sales call background in the building materials industry; Lumber yards, Big Box Stores. etc. (minimum 3 years experience)
• A keen interest to analyze, develop and carry out sale’s strategies so as to aid customers in growing their business.
• Must have consultative, front-line experience working with customers in a sales capacity.
• Ability to navigate and utilize Customer Relationship Management software
• Excellent communication and business relationship skills.
• Must be a team player able to work with a variety of disciplines and organizational functions.

Travel within the region and participation in trade show events will be required.

We offer a competitive remuneration and benefit package.

If interested please forward, via e-mail, your resume and salary requirements to the attention the Human Resources manager at hr@can-save.ca

We thank all applicants, however only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.

Can-Save is an equal opportunity employer.

Top

_____________________________________________________________________

Did your email system make this newsletter unreadable?
You can read it online instead. call us to find out how.

Publishing Details:
HARDLINES is published weekly (except monthly in December and August) by
HARDLINES Inc.
360 Dupont Street
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5R 1V 9
© 2008 by HARDLINES Inc.
HARDLINES™ the electronic newsletter www.HARDLINES.ca ;
Phone: 416.489.3396; Fax: 416.489.6154

Michael McLarney – President – mike@HARDLINES.ca
Beverly Allen, Publisher – bev@HARDLINES.ca
Brady Peever – Circulation Manager – brady@HARDLINES.ca
Barb Hills – Sales Manager – barb@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.

Top

• ILDC to stay focused on vendor programs
• Home Depot will localize its stores’ product mix
• Mat Plus loses founding member to RONA
• Industry will stay buoyant despite declining growth
• TIM-BR MART adds members
  

“The hardest job of all is trying to look busy when you’re not.”
— William Feather (American author, 1889-1981) 

“These four new members are expected to continue the way that the co-op has operated over the years,” says Andrew Battagliotti, general manager of ILDC. They joined forces with ILDC, he points out, because of the appeal of his group’s way of doing business. “Even with these new members, we expect to remain true to vendor commitments and to live up to our promises.”

In addition, the relationship between ILDC’s hardware buying group, Spancan, and the co-ops, remains unchanged. Coop fédérée and FCL joined Spancan effective, Jan. 1, 2008, after departing from the now-defunct Mutual Hardware.

“They are already members of Spancan and wanted to retain their independent status in that group, which has always been very, very positive for them,” says Battagliotti. Delroc and Sexton will have access to Spancan’s buying programs as part of ILDC.

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The company has recognized that it needs to make changes in light of current market conditions that are significantly reducing Home Depot’s business related to home sales. High oil prices and rising unemployment are also cutting into Home Depot’s growth.

Menear told his audience that one of Home Depot’s goals is to raise its stores’ profitability over the next several years by between 1 and 1.4 percentage points. (In the three months ended May 4, the retailer’s gross margin on revenue of $17.9 billion was 33.9%, and its operating margin was 4.1%.) To that end, it has been eliminating categories like pet supplies and automotive (which it never really committed to in the first place) which are of little interest to its core customers.

More dramatic are Home Depot’s plans to localize its stores’ product assortments. Its field merchants will be working more closely with buyers at its Atlanta headquarters to devise product mixes that align with buyers’ needs in particular markets. Menear added that, in some cases, products will be priced differently from market to market, too.

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On a personal note, the move will fit in, as well, with his own long-term plans for involvement in the business. But ultimately, it was a good deal, he admits. “It’s one of those things I didn’t expect. They offered me a deal I couldn’t refuse,” he says.

As for his departure from Mat Plus, Strulovitch expresses his sadness. “On an emotional level, it was very, very tough. It was a very hard choice for me to make. But, at the end of the day, it was a business decision.”

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Consolidation is again one of the driving forces in the industry, as a handful of companies — RONA inc., Home Depot Canada, Canadian Tire, and Home Hardware Stores — represent more than half of all sales by home improvement retailers in this country.

The latest issue of HQR also features the Who’s Who Directory of the top retail customers in the country. More than 70 retail chains, buying groups, and co-ops are listed, with full contact information, executive teams, and complete buyer listings. (For more info and to order your copy of HQR, including the Who’s Who Directory at no extra charge, click here

Top

Better Living Products is a dynamic, successful organization that continues to grow internationally and is looking to expand our sales team. Located in Woodbridge, Ontario Better Living Products is an international manufacturer and distributor of bath & shower organizational products to the retail trade, and pioneers of the original award-winning shower organizer The Dispenser TM.

Our plans to introduce a whole new range of European designed unique and innovative products to North America has opened up immediate positions in our sales and marketing department. We are currently seeking to fill the following positions:

National Account Manager to assist us in achieving our aggressive growth plans by managing specific accounts and channels within Canada and the USA. The successful candidate will possess 3-5 years account management experience and demonstrates exceptional interpersonal, communication and analytical skills. Experience with Mass Merchandise retailers is preferred. This is an intermediate position.

Sales Assistant to support us with administrative duties, trade shows, sales analysis, forecasting, planograms, direct marketing campaigns, new product launches and other sales & marketing related projects. Excellent communication and proficient computer skills is required.

Both positions will be based at our world-wide corporate headquarters in Woodbridge, Ontario. We offer competitive wages, benefits and a fun working environment. Please submit your resumé and salary expectations to Camillo Caperchione, Executive Vice President, Better Living Products, Telephone: 905-264-7100 Fax: 905-264-3690 Email: camillo@dispenser.com

______________________________________________________________________

Sales Representative

Can-Save
Position: Sales Representative (Ottawa & Kingston area)
Location: Eastern Ontario, Start Date: Immediately
Company Information: www.can-save.ca
Can-Save, a progressive building materials distributor – specializing in specialty building products, doors, and kitchen and bath cabinets, has an immediate opening for an Outside Sales Representative for its Eastern Ontario territory

The successful candidate will:

• Have a proven successful sales call background in the building materials industry; Lumber yards, Big Box Stores. etc. (minimum 3 years experience)
• A keen interest to analyze, develop and carry out sale’s strategies so as to aid customers in growing their business.
• Must have consultative, front-line experience working with customers in a sales capacity.
• Ability to navigate and utilize Customer Relationship Management software
• Excellent communication and business relationship skills.
• Must be a team player able to work with a variety of disciplines and organizational functions.

Travel within the region and participation in trade show events will be required.

We offer a competitive remuneration and benefit package.

If interested please forward, via e-mail, your resume and salary requirements to the attention the Human Resources manager at hr@can-save.ca

We thank all applicants, however only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.

Can-Save is an equal opportunity employer.
______________________________________________________________________

SALES AGENT NORTHERN ONTARIO

Colonial Elegance is looking for a Sales Agent for Northern Ontario. The ideal candidate will sell and promote all of Colonial Elegance’s products to building supply dealers across Northern Ontario.

The territory is already established and has great earning potential. The position includes selling and servicing existing accounts prospecting and adding new clients within the building supply industry. The agent will report to the Sales Director for Ontario.

Qualifications

• Strong communication skills both written and verbal
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office ie Excel Word Power Point Outlook
• Knowledge of Territory and clients
• 3-5 years of experience working as a sales agent or Outside sales Representative
• Proven Sales record
• Ability to work with little supervision
• Vehicle required

Compensation:

• Commission based position

Please forward resume to
Colonial Elegance Inc
C/O Brant Danard Regional Sales Director
3800 Du Tricententaire Blvd
Montreal QC
HIB 5T8
Fax 514 640 1744

Email : bdanard@colonialelegance.com
______________________________________________________________________

Black Eagle Consulting provides a variety of Career Transition services in the areas of Executive Search, Outplacement, and Career Counseling. President Richard Simms has many years of experience in the home improvement industry both as a manufacturer and consultant with a wide range of contacts.
For more information:

905-842-3010

rsimms@blackeagle.ca

www.blackeagle.ca
______________________________________________________________________

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Did your email system make this newsletter unreadable?
You can read it online instead. call us to find out how.

Publishing Details:
HARDLINES is published weekly (except monthly in December and August) by
HARDLINES Inc.
360 Dupont Street
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5R 1V 9
© 2008 by HARDLINES Inc.
HARDLINES™ the electronic newsletter www.HARDLINES.ca ;
Phone: 416.489.3396; Fax: 416.489.6154

Michael McLarney – President – mike@HARDLINES.ca
Beverly Allen, Publisher – bev@HARDLINES.ca
Brady Peever – Circulation Manager – brady@HARDLINES.ca
Barb Hills – Sales Manager – barb@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.

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• ILDC joins forces with Sexton, Delroc and Co-ops
• Fate of Reliance Group uncertain following defections
• Home Hardware recruits key BMR director
• Second Home Depot employee nabbed in kickback scheme
• Barbecues are front and centre at Cologne garden show
  

Also due to their size, he expects the new members to be influential participants on ILDC’s board. “They bring a lot to the party.”

According to Battagliotti, the combined organization will draw on its history of working co-operatively to improve each member’s business. In addition to purchasing merchandise at the lowest landed cost, ILDC members have a strong tradition of sharing best practices.

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Reliance’s erosion began last year, when La Co-op fédérée and Federated Co-operatives Ltd. decided to leave Mutual Hardware to join the rival group, Spancan. Spancan’s alliance with ILDC upset the co-ops’ involvement in Reliance. Then, at the beginning of 2008, Castle Building Centres announced it would leave Reliance, as well.

“When you close one door, you have to open another,” says Holmes.

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Reporting to Eric Konecsni, vice-president, operations, Wilson, who is known for his affability and is fluently bilingual, will give Home Hardware an important leg-up in Quebec, where the group has established itself with more than 80 members. The group is also facing an ongoing threat from RONA inc., which is strongest in Quebec and views Home Hardware’s 1,000-plus dealers as prime candidates for recruitment – or outright acquisition.

The move comes as a surprise, since Wilson is considered a key part of BMR’s own efforts to expand outside of its core markets within francophone Canada. Besides the buying function, he had been director of sales and business development for BMR since joining that company in 2005. Under Wilson’s direction, BMR has been recruiting building centre dealers in Ontario and the Maritimes, and it recently launched a “BMR Hardware” program to attract hardware dealers.

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Once again, the largest product group at spoga+gafa 2008 will be Outdoor Living, including the Furniture & Home Items segment, with about 730 exhibiting companies. Within that section, 190 suppliers will be in the Grills & Barbecues section. This section will be supplemented by the Camping and Leisure segment, with 160 exhibitors, and the Sport and Games segment, with 115 suppliers.

In the Outdoor Technology area, the two largest product groups will be Machines & Equipment, with 343 exhibitors, and Equipment and Garden Structures, with 377 exhibitors. A total of 61 suppliers are expected in the Hand Tools & Accessories segment. At the Floristry Supplies & Decorations section, about 238 suppliers will be exhibiting and will form the largest contingent in the Indoor/Outdoor Ambience area, followed by Water & Outdoor Lighting, with 197 exhibitors. The product range will be rounded off by 51 exhibitors in the Plants and Plant Care Products section, and 31 manufacturers of Pet Care Supplies & Accessories.

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Sales Representative

Can-Save
Position: Sales Representative (Ottawa & Kingston area)
Location: Eastern Ontario, Start Date: Immediately
Company Information: www.can-save.ca
Can-Save, a progressive building materials distributor – specializing in specialty building products, doors, and kitchen and bath cabinets, has an immediate opening for an Outside Sales Representative for its Eastern Ontario territory

The successful candidate will:

• Have a proven successful sales call background in the building materials industry; Lumber yards, Big Box Stores. etc. (minimum 3 years experience)
• A keen interest to analyze, develop and carry out sale’s strategies so as to aid customers in growing their business.
• Must have consultative, front-line experience working with customers in a sales capacity.
• Ability to navigate and utilize Customer Relationship Management software
• Excellent communication and business relationship skills.
• Must be a team player able to work with a variety of disciplines and organizational functions.

Travel within the region and participation in trade show events will be required.

We offer a competitive remuneration and benefit package.

If interested please forward, via e-mail, your resume and salary requirements to the attention the Human Resources manager at hr@can-save.ca

We thank all applicants, however only those chosen for an interview will be contacted.

Can-Save is an equal opportunity employer.
______________________________________________________________________

SALES AGENT NORTHERN ONTARIO

Colonial Elegance is looking for a Sales Agent for Northern Ontario. The ideal candidate will sell and promote all of Colonial Elegance’s products to building supply dealers across Northern Ontario.

The territory is already established and has great earning potential. The position includes selling and servicing existing accounts prospecting and adding new clients within the building supply industry. The agent will report to the Sales Director for Ontario.

Qualifications

• Strong communication skills both written and verbal
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office ie Excel Word Power Point Outlook
• Knowledge of Territory and clients
• 3-5 years of experience working as a sales agent or Outside sales Representative
• Proven Sales record
• Ability to work with little supervision
• Vehicle required

Compensation:

• Commission based position

Please forward resume to
Colonial Elegance Inc
C/O Brant Danard Regional Sales Director
3800 Du Tricententaire Blvd
Montreal QC
HIB 5T8
Fax 514 640 1744

Email : bdanard@colonialelegance.com
______________________________________________________________________

Black Eagle Consulting provides a variety of Career Transition services in the areas of Executive Search, Outplacement, and Career Counseling. President Richard Simms has many years of experience in the home improvement industry both as a manufacturer and consultant with a wide range of contacts.
For more information:

905-842-3010

rsimms@blackeagle.ca

www.blackeagle.ca
______________________________________________________________________

Product Manager – Vancouver, BC

Since 1968 our client has been providing quality, innovative hardware products, services and solutions to customers across North America. The company has a solid foundation of success, and is poised for aggressive growth across Canada and the US. As our client implements a major re-branding initiative, the Product Manager will play an integral role in the marketing department’s business plans and growth expectations. The primary responsibility of the successful candidate will be to represent the voice of a key portfolio of products in all matters. He/She will have the autonomy to lead the creation of strategy and the implementation and execution of annual marketing plans.

We are seeking candidates with extensive experience within the Hardware industry on branded consumer goods and have a passion for developing new products. We offer a competitive salary plus bonus, benefits and relocation assistance.

Interested parties should submit their resume in confidence to Dawn Longshaw at Holloway Schulz & Partners c/o jobs@recruiters.com (quoting job reference 11406).
______________________________________________________________________

Top

Did your email system make this newsletter unreadable?
You can read it online instead. call us to find out how.

Publishing Details:
HARDLINES is published weekly (except monthly in December and August) by
HARDLINES Inc.
360 Dupont Street
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5R 1V 9
© 2008 by HARDLINES Inc.
HARDLINES™ the electronic newsletter www.HARDLINES.ca ;
Phone: 416.489.3396; Fax: 416.489.6154

Michael McLarney – President – mike@HARDLINES.ca
Beverly Allen, Publisher – bev@HARDLINES.ca
Brady Peever – Circulation Manager – brady@HARDLINES.ca
Barb Hills – Sales Manager – barb@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.

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• IRLY buying group appoints new president
• Can-Save hosts dealers at another successful buying day
• Industry logs in to learn slowdown strategies
• Home Depot takes a new view on installed sales
• Cologne attracts big brands to outdoor leisure show
  

“Our deeds follow us, and what we have been makes us what we are.”
—John Dykes (English clergyman and composer, 1832-76)

Robinson brings extensive strategic business experience and growth management in several industries. She was most recently self-employed in her consulting business, PathMasters International, providing business solutions in procurement, logistics, quality assurance and research and development. She served as vice-president, operations for both B.C. Hot House Foods and Olafson’s Baking Co. Robinson also taught operations management and logistics at BCIT for 10 years.

Her experience in industries supporting the construction and building sectors includes InterWrap Industries and Gescan Electrical Distributors, where she spent more than 10 years in senior logistics and manufacturing roles.

“Susan brings 30 years of senior executive and strategic business experience, including expertise in distribution, warehousing, logistics, manufacturing and growth management,” said George Linger, chairman of IRLY. “Her energy and enthusiasm will lead IRLY Distributors in substantial growth in the coming years.”

IRLY is the only distributor of both hardware and building materials in BC and supplies more than 40 independent retailers in the province.

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In spite of McLarney’s sobering introduction, it wasn’t all doom and gloom about the economy. Norman pointed out that the slowdown in residential housing starts is not based so much on economic conditions as it is part of “a longer term cycle in housing based on underlying demographic demand.”

And if there is a slowdown to come, it is a slowdown from an absolutely torrid last 10 years for renovation spending. Norman said that Canadian renovation spending had increased an average of 10.3% each year of the last decade, growing from $20 billion in 1998 to slightly over $50-billion in 2007. Furthermore, Norman said, although housing starts are slowing, renovation spending will still increase “between 7% and 8%” in 2008. “The renovation industry is still relatively healthy,” he concluded.

Tratensek described conditions that have faced U.S. dealers in recent years. “The U.S. housing market is in its worst downturn in decades,” Tratensek said. “It’s a trifecta of causes.” The three culprits are a crash in housing starts (from 1.6 million last year to a predicted 1.0 million this year), a crash in new home sales (from 825,000 to 600,000), and a similar drop in resale transactions (6.3 million to 5.0 million).

Tratensek then outlined a number of initiatives that U.S.-based home improvement retailers are undertaking to stay the course. Among them are: expanding your trading area geographically, selling more “quasi-builder services” (installed sales), introducing loyalty programs, providing favourable credit terms, and focusing on new specialty niches, especially commercial construction, which has been less hard-hit by the homeowner credit crunch.

Francis of DMD offered examples of how vendors can work with retailers to provide packaging and merchandising programs to ensure their products stand out on the retailers’ shelves. Sometimes, he said, marketing initiatives from head office aren’t always reflected consistently in messages at point-of-sale. “Leveraging brands and vendor support assists the consumer in making their purchasing decision,” he noted.

To order your copy of this landmark webinar on CD-ROM, click here.

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However, the company continues to operate eight call centres, which provide customers with price quotes and complete orders for customers who go into stores to order products and labour. Blake said the company remains committed to offering installation, but primarily as an incentive to drive store traffic.

This is an almost complete reversal of the goals for installed sales set for by Blake’s predecessor, Bob Nardelli, who saw installation as one of the linchpins to cultivating more sales from professional customers. In 2002, Nardelli was projecting that Home Depot could expand its installed sales to $10 billion in sales by 2005. The person who spearheaded that program for Nardelli was Blake.

Now that he’s running the company, Blake is more focused on improving the customer service within Home Depot’s stores. Reuters quotes Blake as saying the retailer would continue to improve aging stores that most drive its earnings and sales growth. Home Depot has more than 650 stores that are older than 10 years, and these stores as a group are almost 20% more productive than the company average.

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COLOGNE, GERMANY — This city on the banks of the Rhine will be the destination for the global lawn and garden and outdoor leisure industry Cologne is preparing for a full house for the 50th anniversary of spoga from Aug. 31-Sept. 2, 2008 Spoga, the fair for Sports, Camping and Garden Lifestyle — will once again be showcasing a top-quality range of garden furniture, camping gear, outdoor leisure equipment, beach products and barbecue equipment. The show is held in tandem with gafa, the International Garden Trade Fair.

This year marks the 50th edition of spoga — and the show will feature a wide range of products from many of the industry’s leading names. This year, the segment for Plants & Plant Care will feature Landgard as an exhibitor for the first time. The Florists’ Supplies & Decoration section promises to be bigger and better this year, featuring names such as Elho, Deroma, Grosfillex, Lechuza, Marchioro, Scheurich und Soendgen, Kirschke and Gusto.

With wood now playing an increasingly important role in gardens, more and more space is being devoted to related products. Hall 8 is now almost completely booked with many of the leading names in this sector, including Arrow Group, BM Massivholz, Jungle Gym, KBT, Kiehnholz, Kraus, Ubbink, Universo, Videx WEKA and wolff Finnhaus.

Outdoor power equipment manufacturers on hand will include Agria, AL-KO, Blount Oregon, Echo, GGP, Grillo, IKRA, Kohler, Ratioparts, SABO John Deere, Telsnig, Tielbürger and Wolf-Garten. These will be joined by a further 295 companies in sections for hand tools and accessories, water & outdoor lighting (e.g. Brill/Gloria, OASE), and garden structures.

Top

SALES AGENT NORTHERN ONTARIO

Colonial Elegance is looking for a Sales Agent for Northern Ontario. The ideal candidate will sell and promote all of Colonial Elegance’s products to building supply dealers across Northern Ontario.

The territory is already established and has great earning potential. The position includes selling and servicing existing accounts prospecting and adding new clients within the building supply industry. The agent will report to the Sales Director for Ontario.

Qualifications

• Strong communication skills both written and verbal
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office ie Excel Word Power Point Outlook
• Knowledge of Territory and clients
• 3-5 years of experience working as a sales agent or Outside sales Representative
• Proven Sales record
• Ability to work with little supervision
• Vehicle required

Compensation:

• Commission based position

Please forward resume to
Colonial Elegance Inc
C/O Brant Danard Regional Sales Director
3800 Du Tricententaire Blvd
Montreal QC
HIB 5T8
Fax 514 640 1744

Email : bdanard@colonialelegance.com
______________________________________________________________________

Black Eagle Consulting provides a variety of Career Transition services in the areas of Executive Search, Outplacement, and Career Counseling. President Richard Simms has many years of experience in the home improvement industry both as a manufacturer and consultant with a wide range of contacts.
For more information:

905-842-3010

rsimms@blackeagle.ca

www.blackeagle.ca
______________________________________________________________________

Product Manager – Vancouver, BC

Since 1968 our client has been providing quality, innovative hardware products, services and solutions to customers across North America. The company has a solid foundation of success, and is poised for aggressive growth across Canada and the US. As our client implements a major re-branding initiative, the Product Manager will play an integral role in the marketing department’s business plans and growth expectations. The primary responsibility of the successful candidate will be to represent the voice of a key portfolio of products in all matters. He/She will have the autonomy to lead the creation of strategy and the implementation and execution of annual marketing plans.

We are seeking candidates with extensive experience within the Hardware industry on branded consumer goods and have a passion for developing new products. We offer a competitive salary plus bonus, benefits and relocation assistance.

Interested parties should submit their resume in confidence to Dawn Longshaw at Holloway Schulz & Partners c/o jobs@recruiters.com (quoting job reference 11406).
______________________________________________________________________

NORTH AMERICAN SALES MANAGER

to develop our U.S. and Canadian market. The successful candidate will have a minimum of 3 years experience in Consumer Goods or the Food Service Industry and will have acquired exceptional business development skills. A minimum of community college is required. Travel throughout North America will be necessary.

Duties will include sales and marketing strategy development, market analysis, trade show participation, lead follow up, and customer presentation and follow up.

Industrial Thermo Polymers offers competitive wages and a benefit package and we are an equal opportunity employer. Interested applicants should fax or email their resume to:

Industrial Thermo Polymers Limited
Brampton , ON
Attention: Human Resources
(905) 846-0363
akelly@tundrafoam.com

We thank all applicants for their response however only those selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls please.

Top

Did your email system make this newsletter unreadable?
You can read it online instead. call us to find out how.

Publishing Details:
HARDLINES is published weekly (except monthly in December and August) by
HARDLINES Inc.
360 Dupont Street
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5R 1V 9
© 2008 by HARDLINES Inc.
HARDLINES™ the electronic newsletter www.HARDLINES.ca ;
Phone: 416.489.3396; Fax: 416.489.6154

Michael McLarney – President – mike@HARDLINES.ca
Beverly Allen, Publisher – bev@HARDLINES.ca
Brady Peever – Circulation Manager – brady@HARDLINES.ca
Barb Hills – Sales Manager – barb@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.

Top

• North American assiduously affects acquisitions
• Castle continues consolidation with co-openings
• TIM-BR MART Dealers do deal to direct dollars via Air Miles
• RONA puts pep into its plans for profitability
  

“Whatever you do, stamp out abuses, and love those who love you.”
—Voltaire (1694-1778) 

Two retrofits completed last fall, in Red Lake, ON and Radville, SK (shown here), are the company’s latest efforts to enhance existing operations and represent North American’s flagship efforts to remerchandise.

In fact, with this latest addition in Kerrobert, and two more possible deals in the works, “we expect up to three this year,” he notes. New stores tend to be existing outlets, owned by dealers who are looking to retire or otherwise exit the business. As a member of TIM-BR MARTS, Gibson relies on that buying group’s head office for help on an informal basis. “Sometimes Tim Urquhart [president of TIM-BR MARTS] will pass along tips for acquisition targets.” And the focus is, for the most part, smaller, rural markets. The most notable exception is the store in Thunder Bay, one of four in Ontario, and a site in the east end of Winnipeg. North American now has 19 outlets, from the Lakehead to Saskatchewan, plus two home construction divisions in Manitoba and a concrete plant and roof truss manufacturing facility in Saskatchewan.

“We are small-market retailers and that, over the last 102 years, is where we seem to fit best,” says Gibson.

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Leo’s Building Supplies in Olds, AB had a grand opening of its own over the same weekend. A new 22,000-square-foot retail store replaces the existing site for this 12-year-old operation, which joined Castle in the fall of 2006.

Leo’s Castle is a true family operation – along with owner Leo Visser and his wife Ingelise, sons Dan and Jan, and daughter Tina, all are involved full time in the business. Drawing from Castle’s Store Development Program, Leo’s incorporated new imagery in the store’s design.

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RONA has also been trying to get its inventory levels down, after being stuck with surpluses coming into 2008. It managed in 1Q to shave $83 million, or 9%, off its inventories on a comparable basis to first-quarter 2007.

According to Rona CEO Robert Dutton, a number of efficiency improvements were achieved under the PEP program in the first quarter to battle slowing economic conditions. “This program allowed us to improve our gross margin, reduce inventory levels, excluding acquisitions and new stores, optimize the network of existing stores and distribution centres, and improve the results from recent store openings.”

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“This is the largest contest TIM-BR MART has ever done with AIR MILES, and an indicator of the new era of retailing for TIM-BR MART dealers,” said Steve Stremecki, vice-president, retail services division at TIM-BR MART. “We’ll continue to leverage the strength of Canada’s leading loyalty program over the year throughout various consumer touch points.”

The draws will be made on Sept. 15, 2008.

Top

Product Manager – Vancouver, BC

Since 1968 our client has been providing quality, innovative hardware products, services and solutions to customers across North America. The company has a solid foundation of success, and is poised for aggressive growth across Canada and the US. As our client implements a major re-branding initiative, the Product Manager will play an integral role in the marketing department’s business plans and growth expectations. The primary responsibility of the successful candidate will be to represent the voice of a key portfolio of products in all matters. He/She will have the autonomy to lead the creation of strategy and the implementation and execution of annual marketing plans.

We are seeking candidates with extensive experience within the Hardware industry on branded consumer goods and have a passion for developing new products. We offer a competitive salary plus bonus, benefits and relocation assistance.

Interested parties should submit their resume in confidence to Dawn Longshaw at Holloway Schulz & Partners c/o jobs@recruiters.com (quoting job reference 11406).
______________________________________________________________________

NORTH AMERICAN SALES MANAGER

to develop our U.S. and Canadian market. The successful candidate will have a minimum of 3 years experience in Consumer Goods or the Food Service Industry and will have acquired exceptional business development skills. A minimum of community college is required. Travel throughout North America will be necessary.

Duties will include sales and marketing strategy development, market analysis, trade show participation, lead follow up, and customer presentation and follow up.

Industrial Thermo Polymers offers competitive wages and a benefit package and we are an equal opportunity employer. Interested applicants should fax or email their resume to:

Industrial Thermo Polymers Limited
Brampton , ON
Attention: Human Resources
(905) 846-0363
akelly@tundrafoam.com

We thank all applicants for their response however only those selected for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls please.

Top

Did your email system make this newsletter unreadable?
You can read it online instead. call us to find out how.

Publishing Details:
HARDLINES is published weekly (except monthly in December and August) by
HARDLINES Inc.
360 Dupont Street
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5R 1V 9
© 2008 by HARDLINES Inc.
HARDLINES™ the electronic newsletter www.HARDLINES.ca ;
Phone: 416.489.3396; Fax: 416.489.6154

Michael McLarney – President – mike@HARDLINES.ca
Beverly Allen, Publisher – bev@HARDLINES.ca
Brady Peever – Circulation Manager – brady@HARDLINES.ca
Barb Hills – Sales Manager – barb@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.

Top