Hardware All Stars: Alabama & Alaska

Now in its fifth year, the 2015 Hardware + Building Supply Dealer All-Star project is designed to recognize retail excellence.

After a months-in-the-making review of nominations from vendors, distributors and manufacturers, HBSDealer published a list of 50 All Stars from 50 states. The 2015 All-Star project is sponsored by Epicor. 

Now in its fifth year, the 2015 Hardware + Building Supply Dealer All-Star project is designed to recognize retail excellence.

After a months-in-the-making review of nominations from vendors, distributors and manufacturers, HBSDealer published a list of 50 All Stars from 50 states. The 2015 All-Star project is sponsored by Epicor. 

The full article can be found online in our digital issue. In the meantime, here’s our digital spotlight on this year’s honorees from Alabama and Alaska.

Alabama

Weathers Hardware

Boaz, Alabama

Weathers Hardware could stand out sufficiently for its customer service and associate training, but it’s also a part of a larger, rather unusual retail concept: Weathers lays claim to several locations that specialize in furniture and appliances in addition to the standard hardware store product assortment.

Weathers operates 10 locations, including Weathers Ace Hardware in Boaz and Oneonta, a couple of rental centers, plus a Weathers True Value Hardware in Albertville.

Alaska           

Hammer & Wikan True Value

Petersburg, Alaska

The Hammer & Wikan name has been an Alaskan stronghold since 1921, having expanded since to include three locations – inclusive of a grocery store. Its hardware and convenience outfit honors the town’s Norwegian heritage with an assortment of gift items, in addition to a full line of paint, home improvement, hunting, camping, housewares, appliances and more.

The store is one of three outlets of the Hammer & Wikan company, formed in 1921 by John Hammer and Andrew Wikan. The retailer’s hardware and convenience store occupies the original Hammer & Wikan location.