Hardware Store All-Stars: Mass., Conn. and R.I.

HCN's fourth annual list of Hardware Store All-Stars recognizes hardware stores -- one from each state -- that stand out for service, service and more service.

They also show growth, innovation and the values of the hardware industry.

HCN Daily will profile the honorees, moving across the map of the United States from East to West -- continuing this week with Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island.

Massachusetts: The 65,000-sq.-ft. O'Connor Hardware and Rental is big in a lot of ways. A sophisticated lawn-and-garden business (it's one of the top Scotts dealers in all of New England) works in concert with strong paint and rental departments. The Billerica, Massachusetts-based True Value store sends direct mail circulars every two weeks to 50,000 people, and promotes itself on cable TV each morning.

Connecticut: It weathered the storm, and now it thrives. Owner Tom Sato saw to it that his customers were taken care of in the days leading up to Hurricane Sandy -- even though it had originally planned its grand opening for a few days later. True Value considers Wilton Hardware a "store of the future," touting its flexible pickup and delivery options.

Rhode Island: Damon's Hardware has figured out how to turn a shopping trip into a pleasurable experience. Customers know better than to scour the aisles themselves, small and manageable as the store is. The staff is always more than happy to help shoppers find what they're looking for in five minutes or less -- be it a product or the name of someone who can help with a project.

For the full print issue feature and state-by-state list of HCN Hardware Store All-Stars, click here for the September digital edition.