Hardware Store All-Stars: Tennessee and the Carolinas

You don't have to be a fourth-generation hardware store operator to earn a spot in the HCN All-Star list. But it certainly doesn't hurt.

HCN's fourth annual list of Hardware Store All-Stars recognizes hardware stores for outstanding service, as well as 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 Tennessee, North Carolina and South Carolina.

Tennessee: The relationship between Anderson Lumber Company and the community of Alcoa is nothing if not symbiotic: In return for four generations of local support, Anderson makes sure to do things like rally behind local and state athletic teams and raise over $100,000 for cancer research.

North Carolina: Danny Meendering and his crew are no strangers to recognition. True Value of Concord is receiving its fair share of recognition this year. A sampling of customer reviews online reveals why: a willingness to go the extra mile for its customers, regardless of whether it's for a big-ticket purchase or a two-dollar part.

South Carolina: Paradise Home Center is one brick-and-mortar outpost that's figured out its website game. Backed up by an efficient in-store experience, its e-commerce operations keep the business thriving, providing a level of one-click convenience to give the national players a run for their money.

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