Hardware Store All-Stars: Wyoming, Montana and Idaho

Times are tough, economically speaking. But that hasn't stopped the shrewdest of hardware stores from investing in their operations.

Hardware stores of All-Star caliber know when to tighten their budgets and when to make calculated spending decisions, whether that be in the form of a store expansion or leading their co-ops in paint purchases.

HCN's fourth annual list of Hardware Store All-Stars recognizes hardware stores that took risks and reaped the gains, among other qualifying traits.

HCN Daily will profile the honorees, moving across the map of the United States from East to West -- continuing this week with Wyoming, Montana and Idaho.

Wyoming: The True Value of Rawlins store is the largest purchaser of True Value paint out of the Denver regional distribution center, and it was one of the original beta testers of the True Value Rewards card. All-Star community involvement includes Chamber of Commerce membership, Downtown Development Association, Kiwanis Club and fundraising on behalf of an injured policeman.

Montana: Not all progress follows a straight line -- especially when your local hardware store celebrates 25 years in the same location by renovating its exterior to resemble an old-time lumberyard. The family business known as Triple "S" Building Center takes the All-Star route of investing in its people -- a tactic that gives it an edge over larger competitors.

Idaho: A doubling-down on marketing efforts has paid off big time for Pro X Home Center, which now houses a new double drive-through lumber shed and additional property. The growth will continue next year, as recently purchased property for a planned expansion shows confidence in the future.

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