People like to shop at stores that are interesting and make the trip worthwhile. One of the best things about shopping at Costco is that you never know what to expect in new product assortments or free food samples. Shoppers look forward to the experience because they get value for their money, plus something extra. Is your business so focused on selling products that you forget to create excitement by offering something extra? Anyone who runs a successful hardware store is an expert in their marketplace who helps customers with maintenance and repair solutions.

Repositioning your business as a problem-solving hub focused on service will broaden how customers view your operation and help differentiate your store. Younger homeowners can buy products anywhere they choose; what they want is hands-on learning and guidance from an expert who can deliver personalized experiences.

• During the pandemic, 73% of Gen Z homeowners started a project and seek opportunities to improve their skills.
• 75% of hardware store customers are DIYers who would value attending workshops.

Help Shoppers Save Money
Shoppers are accustomed to coming to the neighborhood hardware store for seasonal sales or to drop by for plumbing, lawn, or paint supplies. But retailers must motivate consumers to use specialty services, workshops, and vendor-sponsored events. Younger consumers can learn how to maintain their homes, save money on repairs, and handle tools properly. Just as importantly, customers will see that meeting their needs goes beyond simply selling them products. The fact that 88% of hardware store revenue comes from in-store sales shows how important it is to build relationships.

• Offering tool and equipment repair is a convenience customers would appreciate.
• Customers with questions find a Project Consultation Desk handy for DIY projects.
• Services like key-cutting, screen repair, and tool sharpening generate repeat business and add-on sales.

Simple Workshop Ideas that Generate Sales
Store owners often avoid workshops and events because they lack time and staff. But small-scale, well-executed events can drive sales for businesses with a limited budget and small staff. A birdhouse workshop in spring brings in birders and families who need to buy wood, stain, brushes, chains, and hooks. Gardening workshops attract homeowners who need to buy essentials like soil, tools, seed, gloves, and fertilizers. Be mindful of the season, and plan events when customers are in the mood to participate and buy.

Hands-on Learning for Young Homeowners
While store owners recognize the need to refresh their assortments, they often overlook the need to excite shoppers with new experiences. Partnering with vendors and local specialty shops can encourage shoppers to support local businesses rather than spending their dollars with big-box retailers. Bringing in trusted partners with special expertise can help you reach specific customers who are instrumental to your store growing profitably.

• Local contractors can show participants how to patch drywall or install shelves.
• Teach DIYers how to replace a faucet or repair a leaky toilet
• Invite women to a paint demo workshop led by a local designer
• Home weatherization and home safety workshops led by national suppliers
• Holiday decorations and gifts led by a popular boutique owner

Staying Ahead of the Game
On rough days, remind yourself why customers shop your business instead of Home Depot or Walmart. Could it be because you know their name and care about the project they work hard to complete? Or is it the expert service they consistently receive from your staff? Hardware stores can create a sense of community that big boxes can’t duplicate. When owners keep thinking bigger and engage customers in unexpected ways, their stores become legendary and stand the test of time. Aligning quality products with community-driven experiences will make your store a hub where people want to shop.