HARDWARE STORES

Selecting just 50 All Stars is never easy. This year was no exception, given the amount of qualified candidates that came to the attention of HBSDealer editors.

Chanute, Kan.-based Cleaver Farm & Home was recognized by Chicago-based True Value Co. as one of 13 “Best Hardware Store in Town” honorees.

Accepting the award at a True Value hosted ceremony were Chris and Jason Cleaver. 

The retailer converted to the co-op’s Destination True Value format in spring 2013, and the owners see continued community support along with opportunities for growth. 

The farm-and-ranch segment has been an area of focus for the wholesaler, which describes the segment as its fastest growing. 

The Hillman Cos. agreed to buy Toronto-based fastener distributor H. Paulin & Co. for $103.7 million (C$103 million).

“We are excited to become an integral part of the Hillman organization,” said Richard Paulin, who will continue as president of the new division of Hillman Canada. “This acquisition joins two great and complementary industry leaders with over 140 years of combined fastener knowledge.”

The transaction is expected to close in the first quarter of 2013.

New Britain, Conn.-based Stanley Black & Decker President and CEO John Lundgren will present at the Bank Of America Merrill Lynch Global Industrials Conference on Wednesday, Dec. 15th, 2010 at 1:25 pm eastern standard time.

The webcast will be available on the company’s website.