History was made in Indianapolis as Do it Best and True Value welcomed thousands of independent dealers to their first-ever fully integrated Fall Market. The four-day event not only drew record-breaking attendance but also underscored the growing momentum of independents in today’s competitive retail landscape.
“This Market is proof of what independents can achieve when two industry leaders come together with a shared vision,” said Dan Starr, CEO of Do it Best and True Value. “Our investments in branding, merchandising, and vendor partnerships are designed to help independent dealers grow bigger, stronger, and faster in their communities.”
Branding, Merchandising, and Marketing at the Forefront
The Market placed a spotlight on the shared strength of the two organizations. Dealers got a firsthand look at major investments in branding and consumer marketing, including True Value’s upcoming 2026 national awareness campaign featuring a celebrity spokesperson, and Do it Best’s expanded promotional programs. Together, these initiatives reinforce a common goal: equipping independents with modern marketing tools to capture consumer attention and strengthen loyalty.
True Value President Dent Johnson highlighted the reintroduction of Destination True Value, a refreshed store concept with modern layouts, new signage, and curated assortments. Dealers toured the full installation in Assortment City, gaining practical ideas for elevating in-store experiences. Meanwhile, Do it Best presented its award-winning Solutions in Action concept, emphasizing designs that help independents maintain local identity while building stronger, more unified branding.
Outdoor Living and LBM Take Center Stage
Product innovation was another major theme. Outdoor living received top billing with Broil King and Napoleon expanding into both assortments. These premium grill brands strengthen the “good, better, best” strategy that dealers can use to create full-fledged grilling destinations. At the energetic Power Preview event, attendees saw the grills in action while also securing exclusive discounts and promotional terms.
On the building materials side, Do it Best President Nick Talarico pointed to LBM as a cornerstone of independent dealer growth. The show floor featured can’t-miss LBM VIP Deals on essential categories, while the expanded Studio 695 showroom showcased complete lifestyle solutions—from garages and laundry rooms to outdoor patios and baths. “We want our dealers to walk away with inspiration that positions their stores as true full-service destinations,” Talarico said.
Learning and Networking Opportunities
Beyond buying and merchandising, the Market also focused heavily on education. Dealers participated in LBM Learning Sessions covering emerging topics such as AI applications for profitability, futures market insights, and operational playbooks for margin growth. Networking opportunities across the four days allowed independents to connect not only with vendors but with peers from across the country, exchanging best practices and growth strategies.
A Milestone for Independents
From vendor showcases and immersive storefronts to more than 800 Market-only VIP Deals, the unified event demonstrated the scale and opportunities available through Do it Best and True Value’s partnership.
“With record-breaking attendance, a unified Market floor, and an expanded lineup of vendor programs, the first integrated Fall Market sets a powerful tone for the future,” Starr said. “The message is clear: the combined strength of Do it Best and True Value is fueling a new era of growth for independents.”
About Do it Best
Based in Fort Wayne, IN, Do it Best is the only US-based, member-owned comprehensive and fully integrated hardware, lumber, and building materials buying cooperative in the home improvement industry. With annual sales of nearly $6 billion, Do it Best serves thousands of member-owned locations across the United States and in more than 60 other countries, and is now part of the Do it Best Group, the world’s largest independent home improvement co-op.
About True Value
For more than 75 years, True Value has empowered independent retailers to become a recognized, trusted fixture on Main Streets everywhere through its iconic brand. From expansive product sets and market-customized assortments to innovative marketing programs and value-added services, True Value is the partner for all things hardware. Now part of the Do it Best Group, the world’s largest independent home improvement co-op, True Value continues to support thousands of stores globally while retaining an independent spirit, community focus, and its trusted legacy brand. For more information, visit truevaluecompany.com.
