January 23 2012

Chalifour will close its Montreal office
TIM-BR MARTS takes team to hockey championships
Home launches 2012 contractor shows
Lowe’s not a threat, says RONA CEO
RONA to relocate Studio stores into big boxes
World retail sales improve, but 2012 looks weak
PLUS: Housing resales up, Cantin moves, Sexton Group shows model store, European association grows —and more!

January 9 2012

New Unimat store features more LBM
Target president talks to Canucks
Target announces first Canadian locations
RONA’s extended credit will help it keep consolidating
Canadian Tire counts on social media
PLUS: Castle signs major Ontario dealer, Home Hardware plans DC expansion, Lowe’s buys online seller, Kenny and Sutton form new agency, Activant now Epicor, Home Depot moves DC —and more!

TIM-BR MARTS completes purchase of IRLY
Housing starts end the year strong
Dutton positive about dealer growth
Construction spending in U.S. rises more than forecast
PLUS: HARDLINES presents a Target Boot Camp, Lowe’s opens two more stores in Ontario, Target building DC near Calgary, Hillman makes acquisitions, building permits dip, man falls off ladder, Home Depot to offer construction equipment rentals, Canadian Tire svp moves, Swanson to launch pro too line —and more!

Home Hardware shuffles execs
RONA introduces modular home sales for dealers
Canadian mission to Cologne will include store tours, buyer networking
OGC retail system integrates Orgill compatibility
RONA realigns executive team
Gift cards will be popular again this Christmas
PLUS: Home Hardware makes key dealer conversions, housing starts fall in November, Unimat steps up its retail offering, Richelieu buys back shares, Walmart stays open, Home plans DC expansion, Ikea opens largest Canadian store, Target Canada battles unions, new vp at RONA, Tembec sells off —and more!