Hardware Store All-Stars: Washington, Oregon and Idaho

HCN congratulates the 50 hardware store, home center and farm & ranch retailers who made the annual HCN Hardware Store All-Star list.

Now in its third year, HCN's annual list of high performers recognizes hardware stores -- one from each state -- that are outstanding in their field. The complete list and analysis can be found in the September issue of HCN. Meanwhile, HCN Daily will work its way across the country with mini profiles, continuing this week with Washington, Oregon and Idaho.

• Washington: As outlined in "Seven Secrets of the Hardware Store All-Stars," many retailers succeed when they faithfully reflect the needs of their community. Island Do it Best Home Center and Lumber, located on the island of Vashon, features a broad assortment of upscale products tailored to the local waterfront homeowners. Owner Earl Van Buskirk expanded from 30,000 sq. ft. to 7.5 acres since buying the business in 1988 to make sure customers find everything they need on the remote island.
  
   


• Oregon: Hardware stores don't always fall within the purview of "cool," unless you're talking about Parkrose Hardware in Portland. Recently, It was one of five stores across the entire Ace cooperative to be awarded the title of "Coolest Hardware Store." With a savvily designed website, cotton candy machines for rent and some classic how-to guides and videos, Parkrose meets its community's needs in style.
  
   


• Idaho: There may be more than one D&B Supply scattered across the state of Idaho, but their ratings are consistently good. Specializing in farm and ranch, as well as rodeo equipment and other hard to find products, D&B manages to speak to the heart of its community and stay current (live Chicken Chats on Facebook, anyone?). This is truly a one-stop shop, featuring farm & ranch, clothing, lawn & garden, pet supplies, home decor, automotive, toys and hardware.

Next week, HCN Daily will highlight Nevada, Utah and Arizona honorees. For the full state-by-state list of HCN Hardware Store All Stars, click here.