New chief for Alliance International
Former Mid-States General Merchandise Manager Greg Mann has been named as the new executive director of Alliance International, the buying partnership between Fort Wayne, Indiana-based Do it Best Corp. and Home Hardware Stores Limited of Canada, effective immediately.
In his new role, Mann will guide the Alliance International team with its $5 billion in combined purchasing power to negotiate competitive product pricing on behalf of Do it Best Corp. and Home Hardware member-owners around the world.
Mann replaces Greg Thomas, who is retiring in April after 21 years as executive director of Alliance International.
“It is an honor to lead this partnership and build on Mr. Thomas’ considerable achievements over the last two decades,” Mann said. “Offering a broad selection of competitively priced products is a core component of how we’re consistently able to help our members grow – and it will continue to be our number one focus at Alliance International.”
Mann brings more than 30 years of experience in hardlines merchandise buying and management to the Alliance. Most recently, he served for eight years as the general merchandise manager for Mid-States, a Minnesota-based farm and ranch cooperative covering more than 750 stores.
“Greg brings an impressive level of experience to this role, along with a keen understanding of the Alliance’s importance in supporting and strengthening all of our members,” added Steve Markley, vice president of merchandising for Do it Best Corp. “Combine that with his industry expertise and considerable enthusiasm, and we’re excited about what he and his team have planned to bring even greater value to Do it Best Corp. and Home Hardware members every day.”
Home Hardware Stores Limited is Canada's largest dealer-owned hardware, lumber, building materials and furniture cooperative with close to 1,100 stores under the Home Hardware, Home Building Centre, Home Hardware Building Centre and Home Furniture banners.
“Home Hardware is proud of the effort and results the Alliance achieved under Greg Thomas’ leadership and we wish him well in retirement,” says Ray Gabel, VP of merchandise & marketing at Home Hardware Stores Limited. “We are thrilled to welcome Greg Mann to Alliance International and look forward to the expertise that he will bring to his new role.”