Strategies Spring 2026_No Crops

OPERATIONS

KNOW THE COMMUNITY YOU SERVE 1

Hathaway works closely with small businesses through the Small Business Development Center and draws heavily from her own experience as a former retailer. She says the strongest independent stores understand what drives their local economy and stock accordingly. “You know what’s happening in your community,” she says. “You know the industries, the projects, the corporations around you, and you can fill that gap.” That local knowledge allows stores to avoid overextending themselves and instead focus on products and services customers actually need.

“You’re the signage on the Little League banners. You’re at the chamber events. You’re part of the town and woven into the community

BE VISIBLE AND BE PRESENT 2

Winning locally isn’t limited to what’s on the shelves. Hathaway says community presence plays a major role in long-term success. “You’re the signage on the Little League banners,” she says. “You’re at the chamber events. You’re part of the town and woven into the community so tightly that people know who you are and trust you.” That visibility helps position independent hardware stores as community partners rather than just places to shop.

so tightly that people know who you are and trust you.”

—Jill Hathaway, Small Business Development Center

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