Counting down the Hardware All Stars

Earlier this year, HBSDealer went looking for a few good hardware stores, lumberyards and farm and ranch retailers. The goal was to find 50 All-Star performers, one from each state.

(For the complete list in our May issue, click here.)

The three All Star retailers below combine nuts-and-bolts home repair strength, plus a willingness to push the definition of what it means to be a hardware store.

New York

Stevenson Hardware True Value

The name Stevenson has become synonymous with hardware retailing in upstate New York. Robert Stevenson is the third generation of Stevensons to run the 70-year-old business. “We are the trusted source in town,” he said. Customers agree, with one posting on Yelp!: “The knowhow and experience isn’t matched anywhere.”

North Carolina

Blackhawk Hardware

This past winner of Ace’s “coolest hardware stores” award is serious about being the best trained and prepared staff in the business. It conducts mystery shops every week and typically scores in the outstanding 90+ range. The hardware store also is known for its cabinet and door hardware selection, said to be the best anywhere east of the Mississippi.

North Dakota

Scheels Home & Hardware

This Fargo destination store measures 45,000 sq. ft., with plenty of room to push the boundaries of hardware store offerings. In store Lunchbox Seminars include “Spring Fashion Preview” and “The Art of Working with Florals.” Also inside: the Weber Grill Museum and Stihl power equipment.

Do you know a hardware store, lumberyard or farm and ranch retailer worthy of All Star status? Let us know at [email protected].