Celebrating Excellence: The 2025 Beacon Awards for Top Retailers
The 2025 Beacon Awards, celebrated annually, recognize the achievements of independent hardware retailers committed to excellence, innovation, and community engagement. These prestigious awards were presented during the Independent Home Improvement (IHI) Conference held on July 30–31, 2025, in Orlando, Florida. The ceremony was part of the event's awards gala, where notable figures from the hardware industry gathered to honor the winners. This year's edition marks the 13th anniversary of the Beacon Awards, which were first established in 2013 to spotlight the remarkable contributions of independent retailers across North America.
The awards serve as a testament to the creativity and determination displayed by retailers in navigating the ever-evolving market landscape. This year, a new category—the Digital Beacon Award—was introduced to recognize retailers with exceptional digital engagement and innovative online strategies. The winners exemplify how effective digital marketing and customer interaction can greatly enhance the retail experience.
The recipients of the Beacon Awards this year include distinguished names in the industry. The Retail Beacon Award, aimed at honoring individuals or companies with a significant impact, has been awarded to Randy Andes from Randy's Hardware in Timberville, Virginia; Peter Grebeck of Peter's True Value Hardware in Milford, Michigan; and the Theisen Family representing Theisen's Home•Farm•Auto in Dubuque, Iowa. Their contributions showcase a commitment to exemplary service and community involvement.
In addition, the Beacon Award for Best New Store went to Coulee Hardware in Grand Coulee, Washington; Matt's Building Materials in Pharr, Texas; and Three Sons Hardware True Value in Big Lake, Minnesota. These retailers were recognized for creating remarkable customer experiences and a positive community presence in launching their new locations.
Notably, the inaugural Digital Beacon Award was given to Sullivan Hardware & Garden located in Indianapolis, Indiana. This award highlights the importance of a strong online presence and effective use of technology in enhancing customer interactions. By excelling in digital marketing, Sullivan Hardware & Garden sets an example for others in the industry to follow.
Doug Donaldson, the editor of Hardware Connection, expressed his admiration for the 2025 Beacon Award winners, stating, "These retailers represent the very best of independent retail. Their accomplishments reflect the creativity, resilience, and impact that define this industry—and we're proud to spotlight their achievements."
The Beacon Awards are made possible thanks to sponsorship from several industry leaders, including Do it Best, Orgill, True Value, Ettore, Epicor, Fluidmaster, and WD-40 Low Odor. Their support underscores the shared commitment to excellence and innovation within the independent hardware channel.
For those interested in learning more about this year's honored retailers and the Beacon Awards, the September issue of Hardware Connection provides full profiles and deeper insights into their achievements. As the independent hardware retail sector continues to evolve, the Beacon Awards shine a light on those who strive to make an impact through exceptional service, community involvement, and keen innovation. This recognition not only celebrates current successes but also inspires future generations of retailers to achieve greatness in their endeavors.
The awards serve as a testament to the creativity and determination displayed by retailers in navigating the ever-evolving market landscape. This year, a new category—the Digital Beacon Award—was introduced to recognize retailers with exceptional digital engagement and innovative online strategies. The winners exemplify how effective digital marketing and customer interaction can greatly enhance the retail experience.
The recipients of the Beacon Awards this year include distinguished names in the industry. The Retail Beacon Award, aimed at honoring individuals or companies with a significant impact, has been awarded to Randy Andes from Randy's Hardware in Timberville, Virginia; Peter Grebeck of Peter's True Value Hardware in Milford, Michigan; and the Theisen Family representing Theisen's Home•Farm•Auto in Dubuque, Iowa. Their contributions showcase a commitment to exemplary service and community involvement.
In addition, the Beacon Award for Best New Store went to Coulee Hardware in Grand Coulee, Washington; Matt's Building Materials in Pharr, Texas; and Three Sons Hardware True Value in Big Lake, Minnesota. These retailers were recognized for creating remarkable customer experiences and a positive community presence in launching their new locations.
Notably, the inaugural Digital Beacon Award was given to Sullivan Hardware & Garden located in Indianapolis, Indiana. This award highlights the importance of a strong online presence and effective use of technology in enhancing customer interactions. By excelling in digital marketing, Sullivan Hardware & Garden sets an example for others in the industry to follow.
Doug Donaldson, the editor of Hardware Connection, expressed his admiration for the 2025 Beacon Award winners, stating, "These retailers represent the very best of independent retail. Their accomplishments reflect the creativity, resilience, and impact that define this industry—and we're proud to spotlight their achievements."
The Beacon Awards are made possible thanks to sponsorship from several industry leaders, including Do it Best, Orgill, True Value, Ettore, Epicor, Fluidmaster, and WD-40 Low Odor. Their support underscores the shared commitment to excellence and innovation within the independent hardware channel.
For those interested in learning more about this year's honored retailers and the Beacon Awards, the September issue of Hardware Connection provides full profiles and deeper insights into their achievements. As the independent hardware retail sector continues to evolve, the Beacon Awards shine a light on those who strive to make an impact through exceptional service, community involvement, and keen innovation. This recognition not only celebrates current successes but also inspires future generations of retailers to achieve greatness in their endeavors.
Topics Consumer Products & Retail）
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