The Hardware Connection is published seven times a year by The Hardware Connection Inc. to help independent hardware retailers improve and grow their businesses, to help manufacturers better understand the needs of retailers and to help strengthen the two-­‐step channel of distribution. We offer a fresh perspective to the industry from an independent retailers’ view. We have chosen an electronic format because it allows for interaction between readers and the editorial staff and advertisers. The Hardware Connection is a digital magazine targeted to:

• Independent hardware/home improvement retailers in the two-­‐step channel including specialty retailers in the paint, lawn and garden, plumbing, electrical, commercial/industrial and farm/feed markets.

• Wholesale buyers

• Hardware/home improvement manufacturers

We know hardware!