Hardware All Stars: Illinois & South Dakota

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Each year, HBSDealer editors face the tough task of sifting through dozens of nominations for the annual Hardware All Stars feature.

It's not exactly tough to find retailers that provide knowledgeable service, or stores that are important to their communities. When it comes to All-Star status, however, it's usually a matter of "a little extra" -- be it exceptional service, an unusual market niche, or perhaps just a really great story.

This year's Hardware All Star selection (sponsored by Epicor) is a representation of hardware stores that can play the retailing game, and do so with a heavy dose of personality.

The April issue of Hardware + Building Supply Dealer magazine contains the full list of 2015 honorees. Here are highlights from the class of 2015, continuing today with Illinois and South Dakota.

Franklin Park, Illinois: Olson's Ace Hardware

Olson's always seemed to be ahead of the pack. When it was founded in 1948, it was one of the first retail stores on the street.

During its subsequent expansions in 1960 and 1976, it was one of the largest Ace stores of its time.

Today, it continues pushing the envelope with community involvement, a willingness to pilot new Ace programs, generous staff bonuses and inventive promotional events (Carhartt Fashion Show, anyone?).

Belle Fourche, South Dakota: Dakota Do it Best Lumber

The Bowman family business has been the community supplier of products for the maintenance and upkeep of Belle Fourche homes since 1979.

Last year, the second- and third-generation home center opened a new location -- Do it Best Hardware in nearby Sturgis.