Depot's top merchant points to sales wins

The Home Depot saw positive comps in all of its departments during the second quarter, which was described by executives as one of the best quarters in the company's recent history.

Craig Menear, executive VP of merchandising pointed to four key factors for the success: strong summer events, a recovering seasonal business, commodity inflation and strength across the remainder of the store.

Some areas did better than others. During the company's second quarter earnings call, Menear listed those departments that scored double-digit positive comps: kitchens, indoor garden, lumber, outdoor garden, lighting, electrical and flooring. 

"Our seasonal business exceeded our plan as spring finally kicked into gear in the second quarter," he said. 

There was also good news on the big-ticket front. Strong sales in appliances,riding mowers, flooring and pro business pushed transactions for tickets over $900 up 15.5% in the quarter. These big ticket sales represent about 20% of Home Depot's U.S. sales. 

Looking into the third quarter, Menear called out several products that will play into its innovation at retail approach to merchandising: Behr Premium Deckover wood and concrete coating, LED 90-watt equivalent flood lights from Cree and DAP Smartbond adhesive foaming gel for pro customers.

Also for the pro, Menear mentioned Homedepot.com will offer a new line of fully welded Husky steel cabinets.