Learning.
Networking.
Fellowship.
Bringing together senior sales and marketing executives in the home improvement manufacturing industry since 1971.
What is HMC?
The Hardware Marketing Council (HMC) was organized in 1971 by a handful of individuals representing leading manufacturers who were fulfilling the product requirements of home improvement retailers. The organization’s “founding fathers” included senior sales and marketing executives from leading name brand companies.
Today, the organization gathers twice a year to hear industry leaders speak on relevant topics so members keep pace with the rapidly changing trends within the industry. Some of the past speakers include:
- Bobby Baylis, VP of Merchandising, The Home Depot
- Ged King, CEO, Sales Factory
- Mark Fisher, President, TZ Recruiting
- Connor Lokar, Economist, ITR Economics
- Boyden Moore, President and CEO, Orgill
- Mark Herbek, Executive Director and Partner, Cleveland Research
- Dan Tratensek, Executive VP and Publisher, North American Retail Hardware Association
- Jon Surane, Executive VP, Chief Merchandising & Sales Officer, Ace Hardware
Learning
HMC hosts two annual events giving members insights from notable industry figures, motivational speakers and industry experts on a wide range of topics including management skills, line reviews, team building, leadership and trends affecting the industry.
Networking
With more than 100 companies represented, HMC provides members multiple opportunities to connect, share ideas and learn practices at its two annual events, which include cocktail receptions, dinners, golf outings and more.
Fellowship
HMC members are able to build a large network of peers to connect with throughout the year. HMC represents the home improvement industry and its goal is to provide members an outlet to learn from each other and ensure a strong future for the industry.
Who belongs to HMC?
HMC members represent more than 100 companies including large and small manufacturing brands in the home improvement industry. Many of its founding companies are still active today.
Membership
HMC is made up of senior sales and marketing executives representing leading manufacturers that serve the material and equipment needs of the home improvement industry. Membership is granted exclusively to individuals who meet the criteria for membership including the individual’s company responsibilities, personal stature within the industry and ability to contribute to group discussion. New members are sponsored by existing members and are accepted into membership by a vote. HMC also employs and supports anti-trust protocol and have counsel in attendance to ensure we protect our members accordingly.
Membership benefits include:
- an invitation to two annual meetings with an excellent line-up of industry experts and speakers and endless networking opportunities
- follow leading indicators in the industry
- identify and quantify customer base
- monitor distribution trends in the industry
- analysis of new distribution trends
- access to a robust member directory of leading manufacturers
Why am I a member?
Hear from a few current members about how HMC has been beneficial for them in their businesses and professional careers.
“HMC offers a unique opportunity to be in a room with people from different positions and experience levels in the home improvement industry. It allows me to build new connections, network and share best practices. The diverse group of speakers at each event ensures we are focused on current issues, making it a must-attend event for me.”
-Karen OConnell,
Director of Sales, Westchester Gear
“A true bond is formed with this trusted network of industry leaders, many of whom are also willing to support and share their wisdom outside of the meetings. This opportunity wouldn’t be available to many small companies if they hadn’t invested the time to participate. ”
-Dee Willoughby,
President, Fulton Corporation
“Members consist of an exclusive group of industry leaders with the opportunity to network in a small and intimate setting. This is our industry’s best option for networking with fellow vendors and our largest customer’s leaders.”
-Bill Lown, VP Retail Division & Business Development, The Stow Company
December 1-3
Fall 2026 Meeting
May 11-13
Spring 2027 Meeting
Fall 2026 Meeting
Mission Resort + Club
Howey-In-The-Hills, Florida
Dec. 1-3
Spring 2027 Meeting
Washington Duke Inn & Golf Club
Durham, North Carolina
May 11-13
May 2026 Meeting Highlights
- Speakers at the meeting included:
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CONNOR LOKAR, ITR Economics, presented “The Advantages of Anticipating Changes in Business Direction”
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PETE DUMIAK, Retired Sales Leader with WD-40, presented “Bringing Out the Best in Your People”
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BRIAN BECK, Managing Partner, Enceiba, presented “Amazon Business: Creating Opportunity from Disruption”
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CRAIG WEBB, Webb Analytics, presented “New Rules for Supply Chain Success”
- JASON STOFLETH, EVP of Merchandising and Supply Chain at Do it Best gave an update on Do it Best and the acquisition of True Value.