February 2026 CUTTINGEDGE Products 51 WALL AND CAVITY FOAMDAP is revolutionizing spray foam application with the introduction of a first-of-its-kind, patent pending wide spray applicator and pre-mixed formula that, like a 2-Component spray foam, air seals and insulates with ultimate spray control. Wall & Cavity Foam with Wide Spray Applicator is always on ratio, using the latest in polyurethane sealant technology to provide outstanding performance. It is a spray ready, easyto-use, single canister solution with 2-Component spray foam versatility. Its 8-foot hose is convenient for hard-to-reach areas, while the responsive flow control trigger provides flexibility, making it the ideal spray foam applicator for repairs, renovations and new installations.DAP PRODUCTSDAP.COM WOOSTER’S PAINTER’S BACKPACKWooster Painters Backpack – painting tool organization meets convenient transportation. Built for the Pro and featuring multiple brush pockets, storage for rollers frames and covers, and zippered compartments for prep tools, screwdrivers, or other accessories, this rugged backpack easily carries all your tools to the job site.WOOSTER BRUSH COMPANY800-392-7246 OR WOOSTERBRUSH.COM MARINE GRADE CLEAR PREMIUM WOOD SEALERSEAL-ONCE, a U-C Coatings, LLC brand, has recently launched a new line of advanced wood protection products designed for exterior wood surfaces like docks, decks, fences, and siding. This product delivers exceptional protection and stability for wood, with a performance comparable to oil-based finishes.The Marine Grade Clear Premium Wood Sealer is water-based, eco-friendly, ultra-low VOC, and safe for pets, plants, people, and aquatic life. This product is engineered for all environments, including the toughest conditions near open water. This unique formula penetrates deep below the surface, forming a flexible, breathable barrier that adapts to environmental changes and protects against water damage. U-C COATINGS, LLCSEAL-ONCE.COM | EMAIL [email protected] OR CALL 716-833-9366 DIRTEX SPRAY CLEANERThe No. 1 rated extra strength ammoniated spray cleaner for cleaning many surfaces around the home or office. Excellent for glass, chrome, porcelain, ceramic tile, appliance enamels, etc. Removes dirt, grease, and grime with just a wipe, and also removes latex paint overspray (not recommended for shellac or lacquer). Spray Dirtex® has a pleasant odor and contains no fluorocarbons.SUNNYSIDE CORPORATION847-541-5700 OR WWW.SUNNYSIDECORP.COM KEROSENEKerosene is a highly refined 1-K heater and appliance fuel, ideally suited for use in kerosene heaters, lanterns, and stoves. It is crystal clear, has no dyes, and is refined to reduce sulfur content and extend the wick life of kerosene-burning appliances. Kerosene meets ASTM 1-K Specifications and is suitable for all keroseneburning heaters, lamps, and stoves.SUNNYSIDE CORPORATION847-541-5700 OR WWW.SUNNYSIDECORP.COM
52 CUTTINGEDGE Products February 2026CATEGORY SPOTLIGHTTECHNOLOGYBaby Boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, experience retail technology differently from younger generations. Unlike digital natives who are comfortable in a tech-driven world, Boomers bridge the gap between traditional and emerging technologies. Their mixed feelings about automation demand special consideration from retailers seeking to balance innovation with familiarity. Retailers must not overlook Baby Boomers when integrating new technology, especially in independent hardware stores where Boomers are key customers. The core issue is whether automation enhances or undermines the experience these loyal shoppers expect. Owners face crucial decisions on balancing advanced automation with the personalized service older shoppers value.WHAT DO BOOMERS REALLY THINK?As technology in stores increases, retailers need an omnichannel strategy tailored to Boomers’ expectations to maintain loyalty. The main challenge is adopting technology that enhances without disrupting the personal touch Boomers value. Understanding Boomers’ attitudes toward retail automation is essential to making informed decisions and protecting customer relationships.• 47% think automation is impersonal (31% of Gen Z).• 67% feel that automations limit human contact (26% Gen Z).• Almost 3 in 4 (71%) are uninterested in using ChatGPT.Boomers are not against technology, but they want automation to serve their needs without replacing the valued personal connection with store staff. Their acceptance depends on user-friendly options that supplement, rather than substitute, personalized service. Choice and human interaction remain at the core of their retail preferences. • Boomers don’t want to struggle to figure things out.• Technology must serve a real purpose, not just change for the sake of change.• They don’t like chatbots but value them for speed rather than complex apps. CONCERNS ABOUT USING AUTOMATIONOlder people are often seen as wary of technology, but their attitudes are nuanced. They value digital tools that offer convenience and are willing to adapt if the technology is useful. However, in retail, they still prefer personalized service and meaningful interactions. There are also other concerns rooted in experience and expectation.• Job displacement due to automation will result in fewer jobs and negatively impact employees and the community.• Boomers don’t feel technically adept when using the latest automated systems since they can be complex and the instructions may be unclear.• Concerns about security and privacy are factors when automated systems request customer data to complete processes.WHAT BOOMERS LIKE ABOUT AUTOMATIONBaby boomers appreciate technology that makes transactions more convenient. Self-checkout stations and cashier-less stores are becoming more prevalent in retail spaces. Boomers appreciate automation that saves time by speeding up checkout. • App-based ordering for curbside pickup.• Simple tools that don’t have too many steps and a lot of clicking.• Chatbots for immediate answers and access to quick product information.• Ordering online and picking up in-store.• Smart kiosks for locating items and checking prices.Small- and mid-size stores can satisfy older shoppers by adopting technology that supports—not replaces—personal service. Implement simple digital options like apps, QR codes, and online pickup ordering, but always prioritize the human touch Boomers appreciate most. Balancing these elements is key to meeting Boomers’ evolving expectations. What Baby Boomers Think about Automation in Stores
February 2026 CUTTINGEDGE Products 53PRODUCT SPOTLIGHTTECHNOLOGY MIGHTY MULE MM371W SMART GATE OPENERThe Mighty Mule MM371W is ideal for the DIY property owner. Perfect for all single gate types including ornamental, chain link, tube, panel, vinyl, and wood. The Mighty Mule MM371W is solar capable, HomeLink® compatible, and can be controlled from anywhere using the Mighty Mule smart phone app with an optional MMS100 Wireless Connectivity Kit. Customers can access detailed instructions, online howto videos, 3-D installation guide app, technical support line and 24-hour online resources, and it’s backed by a 12-month warranty.MIGHTY MULE800-421-1587 OR MIGHTYMULE.COM TEXT2VIP SMS SOFTWAREDrive customer engagement and grow your business with text message marketing. Text2VIP is the #1 rated no-contract SMS message marketing software. After all, 90% of all texts are read within the first five minutes of receipt. Text2VIP software does it all: 2-way messaging, automatic appointment reminders or employee schedule reminders, create a loyalty text club, blast notices about events & promotions, or create a survey to collect useful feedback. Simply choose your keyword, grow your mass text message list and send out your blasts—or have our agents help set up a campaign for you!TEXT2VIP - A SOFTWARE BY IES, INC. OF PLYMOUTH888-813-TEXT(8398) OR TEXT2VIP.COM MIGHTY MULE FM231 WIRELESS DRIVEWAY ALARM SYSTEM The FM231 Wireless Driveway Alarm is ideal for gateless properties. This easy to install alarm notifies you with a chime on the included indoor base station when someone enters your driveway or property entrance. Featuring reliable electromagnetic technology that senses mass metals, the FM231 only detects vehicles, avoiding false alarm notifications. Up to 400 ft. wireless range from outdoor transmitter to indoor receiver. 12-month Mighty Mule warranty and technical support. MIGHTY MULE800-421-1587 OR MIGHTYMULE.COM INDUSTRY-SPECIFIC BUSINESS AND INVENTORY MANAGEMENT SOFTWARESpruce® business management software is an easy-to-use solution that transforms operations so you can grow. The software is cloud-based and completely integrated, from inventory purchasing through delivery, to help streamline processes and reduce costly errors. Access your data from anywhere to make decisions based on facts that improve your bottom line. Our solution gives you solid data so you can make informed business decisions, provide a seamless experience for your customers, and compete at a higher level. ECI SOFTWARE SOLUTIONSHTTPS://WWW.ECISOLUTIONS.COM/PRODUCTS/BUILDINGMATERIALS-SOFTWARE/ LEADING POS SOFTWARERockSolid MAX® software includes the features you need to run your business at one affordable monthly price. With integrated point of sale, purchasing, inventory management, and accounts receivable—you will operate efficiently and grow. It’s cloud-based, so you can access the system from anywhere, and your data is always protected.ECI SOFTWARE SOLUTIONSHTTPS://WWW.ECISOLUTIONS.COM/PRODUCTS/ROCKSOLID-MAX/
54 CUTTINGEDGE Products February 2026PRODUCT SPOTLIGHTTECHNOLOGYADVERTISERS’ INDEXThis directory is provided as a service. The Publisher assumes no liability for errors and/or omissions.ADVERTISER AD PAGE # PR PAGE #Bacon Up 27Clorox 47Cofair Products, Inc. 39 38, 42DAP 40 50Do it Best 11Duravent Group 37 42, 43House-Hasson Hardware Company 16-17Howard Products, Inc. 45 46, 47Mayhew Tools 41 38, 42, 43Midwest Fastener 2-3 37ADVERTISER AD PAGE # PR PAGE #NorthAB 55, OutsertOrgill 4Paladin Data Corporation 20-21Pavestone 33Quikrete 32Rescue 56 30, 31Starbrite 34-35 43, 50Sunnyside Corporation 28-29 49, 50, 51The Inspired Home Show 15The Wooster Brush Company 9 50, 51FOR MORE PRODUCT AND CONTACT INFORMATION VISIT CUTTINGEDGEPRODUCTS.ORG PRODUCT BY CATEGORY. FERRET LITE – MULTIPURPOSE WIRELESS INSPECTION CAMERA The Ferret Lite, designed and engineered by Ferret Tools, is a general-purpose high-quality inspection camera that allows you to see and reach where you can’t. Ideal inspection camera for all Homeowners & Professionals. Built-in WiFi with a range of up to 50-ft., 720p HD streaming, free Ferret App. The kit includes a full range of attachments & thread adaptors.FERRET TOOLS312-485-2156 OR FERRETTOOLS.COM WATCHER VISION 360Your new Digital Security Guard! Watcher Vision 360 is your complete loss prevention solution. It connects to existing surveillance systems (Watcher, and non-Watcher camera systems). Analyzes selected aisle camera video to detect typical shoplifting behavior. Sends alerts with video segments to smartphones or computers within 15 to 20 seconds of detected suspicious activity with no user limits. System will also track product costs saved by shoplifting stopped due to alert notifications.WATCHER TOTAL PROTECTION877-289-2824 OR WATCHERPROTECT.COM
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