Spring 2013 Hardlines Strategies

VENDOR PROFILE

and the transcontinental railroad. “A lot of jobs were done manually back then, so the hand tools we made had a big role. We have long roots in the industry and the building of the nation,” Saffron says. Ames True Temper also has much to offer the independent retailer, such as a comprehensive, good-better-best line of products; products that can’t be found at big-box stores; and a regular presence at the Blish-Mize Buying Market with assortments and displays tailored to the needs of the independent channel. The True Temper True American line, a made-in-the-U.S.A. line of tools, is one of those lines not sold at big-box retailers. “There have been significant increases in popularity in the buy-local and buy-American trends,” Saffron says. “These trends all bode well for the independent.” He says the company treasures its relationship with Blish-Mize, too. “It’s a long-standing and friendly relationship. Blish-Mize has been a proponent of the True American line, and it’s been one of the company’s primary growth vehicles. It’s a mutually beneficial relationship.” At a Glance Ames True Temper Year Founded: 1774, by Oliver Ames President: Les Ireland Headquarters: Camp Hill, Pa. Principal Products: Hand tools, power tools

over the past 50 years,” says Jeanette Kellogg, Genova’s vice president of sales and marketing. Some milestones for the company have been the distribution of PVC-DWV pipe and fittings; adding new manufacturing plants in several states; introducing vinyl rain gutter and downspout systems; and producing vinyl fencing, decking and railing. Genova and Blish-Mize have been partners for almost all 50 years of Genova’s history. “We have been great partners because it is a partnership based on both companies having similar values and vision,” Kellogg says. Genova supports independent retailers with quality products, merchandising and advertising programs. Other value-added attributes include efficient shipments on designated truck fleets, a dedicated customer service department and an engineering staff to assist with technical questions. “Independent retailers play a key role in their communities and the industry as a whole,” Kellogg says. “They are passionate about their businesses. Genova supports independent retailers with innovative, quality products that solve their customers’ plumbing and building material needs at competitive prices.” At a Glance Genova Year Founded: 1962, by Robert F. Williams President: Robert M. Williams Headquarters: Davison, Mich. Principal Products: Pipes; fittings; vinyl fencing, decking and railings

manufacturing hand planes, hammers and screwdrivers. By 1900, it was the largest manufacturer in the country. Over the next several decades, Stanley continued to add new products, such as specialty tools during World War I and World War II, the electric drill and other power tools, and the Utility Knife and Phillips head screwdriver (both of which the company invented). The company also introduced the power lock and retractable measuring tape. Meanwhile, Duncan Black and Alonzo Decker had started a small shop in Baltimore in 1910. The two filed their first patent—for a portable electric drill—in 1916, the same year they launched a portable air compressor. Black & Decker expanded into Canada, the United Kingdom and Australia in the 1920s. Like Stanley, it manufactured products for soldiers during both world wars. Black & Decker also started a line of drills and other D-I-Y accessories in the 1940s and outdoor tools in the 1950s. In 2010, the two companies merged together. “We preserved the brands the way they’ve always been,” says Todd Langston, director of brand marketing for Stanley Black & Decker. “We protected the DNA of each brand—each has its own set of characteristics.” In celebration of its 170th anniversary this year, Stanley Black & Decker will be working with the Smithsonian Institution to put together a series of exhibits recognizing the company’s inventions and accomplishments. The company is also a source for American-made products. “We have a lot of products made in the U.S., and we want to work hard to send the message that we’re an American company,” Langston says. “We’ve been a significant part of history.” Year Founded: 1843, by Frederick Stanley President and CEO: John F. Lundgren Headquarters: New Britain, Conn. Principal Products: Hand tools, mechanics tools, pneumatic tools, hardware, security products, hydraulic tools, power tools and accessories. At a Glance Stanley Black & Decker

Genova: A New Face for Plumbing

In 1962, Robert F. Williams founded Genova as he sought to develop more economical, easier-to-install plumbing systems. He replaced the metal pipes and fittings with plastic ones, which changed the nature of plumbing in the building industry. “Genova has been at the forefront of the innovation that has taken place in the plumbing and building industries

Stanley Black & Decker: Teaming Up In 1843, Frederick Stanley started a workshop in New Britain, Conn., where he began manufacturing hardware. Two decades later, his company began

32 Spring 2013 • Hardlines Strategies