All Star Review: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa
It takes a little more to be an All Star.
To provide the best customer service; fit perfectly with your community; find the niche categories for your locals; and have the people and personalities to create that certain something extra.
This year’s class of STIHL Hardware All Stars marks the 14th year of the program, in which editors recognize one business from each of the 50 states.
ILLINOIS
• Whitmore Ace
Founded in 1896 and based in Wilmington, Whitmore Ace has a rich history of serving its customer needs with impeccable sales and service. This fifth-generation, family-owned and operated local hardware store group spans 14 locations across northeastern Illinois. Starting in 2017, Whitmore began a partnership with STIHL and has expanded the line across all locations. The business continues to increase its store count and has taken its place as a top retailer in northeastern Illinois.
INDIANA
• McCord’s Do it Best
Here’s an independent reinventing itself to remain relevant. Examples: When Radio Shack went under, this store expanded its RCA selection. When Staples closed, they opened a copy, print, and mail operation with a dedicated staff. And they’re now an authorized UPS store. They also boast an impressive 1,200 square-foot display of lighting and bath fixtures that rivals big boxes. Part of their community since 1935, involved in philanthropy and community events, this is a snapshot of how hardware survives and thrives, All Star style.
IOWA
• Lockridge Lumber and Hardware in Centerville
Let’s begin at the beginning – in 1946. Lockridge, Inc. was started by Bob Lockridge and his parents in Promise City as a small farm and hardware store. By 1968, they added lumber. Bob passed away in 1981. His nephew, Max Moore, hired Dale Housh as manager. Dale and his wife Jill became partners and eventually purchased Lockridge. The Centerville location opened in 1998. Dale, front row, Jill, and Courtney Power, and back row, Clint Housh and Caleb Housh operate the business today supplying materials for new home construction, remodeling, farm and fencing.
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