Hardware All Stars: Delaware & Nevada

It takes a little more to be an All Star.

It takes a little more to be an All Star.

This year's Hardware All Stars (sponsored by Epicor) is a send-up of the nation's retail prowess, recognizing stores that go above and beyond the call of duty (and sometimes come with an interesting story).

The April issue of Hardware + Building Supply Dealer magazine contains the full list of 2015 honorees. Here are highlights from the class of 2015, continuing today with Delaware and Nevada.

New Castle, Delaware: New Castle Hardware

So far, it seems that Brian Smyth is doing quite a fine job of upholding the legacy cultivated by his parents, owners Jim and Janet Smyth, of outstanding customer service from a knowledgeable, bilingual staff.

The store's more serviceable nature spills over into the online realm, where more than 70,000 items can be purchased for store or home delivery.

Fallon, Nevada: Western Big R

Western Big R describes itself as a classic farm-and-ranch retailer with deep roots in the community and the hardware business.

"Where we really excel from a farm-store perspective is the hardware side of it: electrical and plumbing," said Lane McAllister, co-owner. "We started life as a hardware store."

The recipe has lead to growth -- Big R hosted a grand opening of its fifth store in February.