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Industry NEWS

Through the publication and app, members can Canada, Walmart Canada and Hudson’s on September 8 as Director, Merchandise
participate in: Bay. Strategy and Execution, which is a new
Craig Thompson is now Director, role established to drive the success
• member “booths” with company profiles, Merchandise Hardlines, which was of Home’s Merchandise strategies;
product info and staff intros created by the previously held by Rob Szekszer. Prior and she will be reporting to Marianne
members to Home Hardware, Craig held almost Thompson, Senior Vice-President,
• new products feature area 20 years of leadership retail positions, Merchandise. She brings over 14 years
• show specials including his most recent role as a of solid retail industry experience from
• warehouse sales Commercial Planning and Analytics Walmart Canada, Sobeys and AC Nielsen
• opportunities to connect with other leader at Walmart Canada. with a focus on category management
members Meriyem Kaf joined Home Hardware optimization.
• in-app contests

Members can also have virtual product Management and POS Solutions for the
knowledge sessions hosted by the WRLA and
the association will be holding various education Hardware and Building Supply Industries
sessions on industry and business topics from
January 18-29, 2021.
“This new format is actually a really exciting
opportunity for members. This is a fresh way for
vendors to reach people they would have seen at
the show, plus they can also connect with others
who may not normally travel to the show. Via the affordable
app and magazine, members can connect in ways
that work within their schedule,” says Joel Seibert,
WRLA board chair. “This is the next best thing to an and robust
in-person event.”

news from home hardware

2021 wrla showcase
changes format

New Directors support Home’s growth and
business strategy it’s the best
Home Hardware Stores Limited announced the
appointment of new directors in the merchandise of both worlds!
department to support their strategic growth and
focus on customer-centric category management.
The following directors joined Home Hardware on
August 31 and will be reporting to Rob Szekszer:
Tara Spengen is now Director, Merchandise
Hardlines which was previously held by Brian
Straus. With over 25 years in retail experience
at ACI Brands INC, Korhani Home, Walmart
Canada and Hudson’s Bay Company, she is highly
successful in building supplier relationships and
delivering on profit and growth results.
Carol Crystal is now Director, Merchandise
Hardlines, which was previously held by Dave
Martin. She brings almost 20 years of retail transaxion.ca | 1 800 361-3607
experience from organizations such as Lowe’s

www.lbmao.on.ca LBMAO Reporter - September-October 2020 11