Hardware Store All-Stars: Florida, Georgia and Alabama

No store is an island, as they say. And many of this year's Hardware Store All-Stars earned their esteemed status with the support of their communities.

HCN's fourth annual list of Hardware Store All-Stars recognizes hardware stores for their ability to serve their respective markets -- not to mention outstanding service, growth and innovation.

HCN Daily will profile the honorees, moving across the map of the United States from East to West -- continuing this week with Florida, Georgia and Alabama.

Florida: It's something of a feat to be one of a small handful of independent hardware stores still standing in Miami, let alone of of the top-rated on Yelp. Hence the All-Star title for Shell Lumber & Hardware, a store known for its old-fashioned charm, modern service and smart selection.

Georgia: Jim Stone's first store went up in 1959. Today, the 10-location Stone's Home Center chain is running on its third generation, with strong links to its Georgia and North Florida communities. Cases in point: the Hunter's Night Out event in the fall, animal shelter and pet adoption efforts and childhood cancer research campaigns.

Alabama: In 2009, Lincoln Hardware was named PRO Retailer of the Year by Long-Lewis Hardware Company. In 2014, it got the attention of HCN through multiple nominations and a strong showing of support from its business partners. A willingness to innovate and a basic integrity has gone a long way for owners Thomas and Elizabeth Heath.

For the full print issue feature and state-by-state list of HCN Hardware Store All-Stars, click here for the September digital edition.