Hardware Store All-Stars: Alaska and Hawaii

Knowing your niche is good -- but sometimes it's a matter of sheer survival.

HBSDealer's fourth annual list of Hardware Store All-Stars recognizes hardware stores that adapt to the unique realities of their environments, all while maintaining classic traits of good retailing.

HBSDealer Daily has profiled the honorees, moving across the map of the United States from East to West -- concluding this week with Alaska and Hawaii.

Alaska: Hunting supplies, fishing rods and Interior Alaska's largest selection of fasteners bolster the All-Star status of Sentry Hardware, suited to the unique needs of Alaskan customers. The retailer's Wooly Rhino division purveys performance apparel for the Alaskan female DIYer.

Hawaii: With five Hawaii locations, Big Island's HPM (Hawaii Planing Mill) brings the All-Star traits of growth and service. A recent expansion has extended the dealer's reach to Oahu, Maui and Kauai. That's good news for these communities, as the HPM Foundation has donated more than $500,000 annually to 11 different non-profit organizations.

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

Know any stores deserving of the All-Star title for 2015? HBSDealer is now taking nominations. Send us a note here explaining why your store of choice rises above the rest.