BM_FallStrategies2020-FINAL

COMPANY NEWS Industry Leaders Star Lumber’s Patrick Goebel Named NRHA Top Gun

T he North American Retail Hardware Association (NRHA) has recognized Star Lumber president Patrick Goebel in its annual Top Guns Awards program. For the last 13 years, NRHA has bestowed this award on retailers who are strong players in the independent hardware retailing market and are driving innovation throughout the industry. Goebel’s grandfather founded Star Lumber in Wichita, Kansas, in 1939 when he found an opportunity to sell used lumber to builders. The company has since grown to include three divisions: the original lumber and building supply business; a flooring and decorating business in Oklahoma; and a trusses business. After pursuing a brief career in finance after college, Goebel returned to his family business and is now one of many Goebel family members who are growing the company. Star Lumber has been a longtime Blish-Mize customer, and Goebel is certain the company’s relationship with the distributor has been key to its success, especially as it has grown into hardlines in addition to its lumber operations. “We love Blish-Mize. They have been a trusted partner on the hardware side for many years,” he says. “They work very well with us on hardlines and our distribution and warehousing. They make it so we don’t have to worry about it because of their efficiency and accuracy. They also helped us complete a massive reset of our two main hardware-focused stores to include more of a pro builder and subcontractor hardware set. It has made a huge difference in our business.” Read a conversation with Goebel at hardwareretailing.com/top-guns-2020 and listen to a podcast episode featuring Goebel at hardwareretailing.com/pod. Goebel and the other Top Guns honorees will also be featured in a panel discussion at the virtual NRHA All-Industry Conference. Visit nrhaconference.com for more details and to register.

42 Fall 2020 • Hardlines Strategies