DISTRIBUTORS/CO-OPS

According to an article in the postbulletin.com, and old Hollywood Video store in Rochester, Minn., will soon be converted into the city's fourth Arrow Ace Hardware location.

Owner Dave Neiman, who reportedly owns stores in Byron, Owatonna, Northfield, Mankato, Shakopee, Chaska and St. Peter, said the store is expected to open in June. 

Murray Armstrong, an Ace Hardware executive who helped build the co-op’s international division during his 21-year tenure, has died at age 63. Armstrong passed away peacefully in his home in Winfield, Ill., on Dec. 14, according to a notice posted on the website of the North American Retail Hardware Association.

Chicago -- With a view toward driving profitable sales, Ace VP merchandising John Surane pointed to some merchandise initiatives, regional wins and corporate strategies during the co-op's 2011 Ace Convention and Exhibits.

One of the brightest merchandising spots was the Craftsman tools brand. Back in February 2010, Ace and Sears announced a partnership that opened the way for Ace retailers to sell the Sears-owned Craftsman brand. 

Chicago-based True Value Co. recognized 13 member hardware stores as part of its fourth annual "Best Hardware Store in Town" campaign.

"These 13 stores represent what it takes to exceed customer expectations,” said Lyle Heidemann, president and CEO of True Value Co. “This select group of retailers continues to succeed by constantly recognizing and adapting to meet the different needs of the local communities they serve.”

The winners are:

Chicago -- After a year in which consolidated wholesale sales were up 2.1%, Ace Hardware Corp. is planning for sales growth of 3.0% in 2011.

"It feels good to be back in the positives," said Dorvin Lively, Ace CFO, speaking to co-op members assembled during the Ace Spring Convention and Exhibits in Chicago last week.

True Value has announced the introduction of a 2-in-1 -- paint plus primer -- paint called EasyCare Platinum. The new paint promises a one-coat solution to painting projects because it eliminates the need for a primer.

EasyCare Platinum will be available in all the colors offered in the Chicago co-op’s EasyCare line, including Flat Enamel, Satin and Semi-Gloss finishes. EasyCare Platinum is mildew-resistant and backed by a lifetime warranty.

Coast Hardware, a True Value dealer in Willits, Calif., keeps some unusual merchandise in the front of the store: a large cage full of cats, ready for adoption. According to an article in the Willits News, owner Don Buchanan and staff have been helping place animal rescue shelter cats in homes for several years. 

The Northern California hardware store partners with the local chapter of the Humane Society and a group called Anderson Valley Animal Rescue.

Fort Wayne, Ind.-based Do it Best Corp. announced the appointment of new merchandise managers to replace three retiring managers, effective April 1, 2011.

The co-op appointed Gary Loosle for lawn and garden – green goods, Josh Meyer for paint and sundries, and Chris Steinlicht for rental and store supplies.