Hardware All Stars: Indiana & New Mexico

Retail, like many sectors, is one that is experiencing significant upheaval. But there are certain timeless qualities that elevate stores to All-Star status.

Retail, like many sectors, is one that is experiencing significant upheaval. But there are certain timeless qualities that elevate stores to All-Star status.

This year's Hardware All Stars (sponsored by Epicor) represented some of the country's best product knowledge, customer service, and community involvement, as well as some of the most idiosyncratic hardware store stories in the land.

The April issue of Hardware + Building Supply Dealer magazine contains the full list of 2015 honorees, and more of their stories. Here are highlights from the class of 2015, continuing today with Indiana and New Mexico.

Rockport, Indiana: Obermeier Hardware & Rental

Originally established as an auto store in 1959, Obermeier has evolved considerably since to keep up with the community's home improvement needs.

With owner John Obermeier back in the family business, the store is being overhauled once more, expanding into convenience lumber and home decor, as well as awaiting a grand reopening in April after a recent store remodel.

It also maintains a strong commitment to green principles -- its last remodel added geothermal heating and cooling units, energy-efficient foam-insulated roofing, and energy-efficient lighting to the store.

Silver City, New Mexico: Mountain Ridge Ace Hardware

Assortments tailored to the Silver City community and a store boutique that nurtures a treasure-hunt experience are two of the factors that make Mountain Ridge Ace Hardware an All-Star performer.

Also, the retailer is one of the early adopters of the Ace Hardware same-day "Free Store Pickup" program for online orders.

More than anything, however, shoppers have extra-special things to say about the store's customer service, which has earned it repeated 5-star reviews.