YOUR PARTNER FOR 2024 SPRING MARKET MARCH 23-25 | HOUSTON SUCCESS
2 | SPRING MARKET PLANNING GUIDE The city with no limits. Home to the world’s greatest space center. The crossroads where daydreams and discovery meet to chart a path for the future—our future. Welcome to Houston. They say everything is bigger in Texas, and the Do it Best Spring Market is bigger and better than ever. Dive into deals, discover new products and power-packed assortments, network with fellow members and vendors, and gain insights from our team as we showcase the strength of our partnership at the 2024 spring market. MAJOR MARKET UPDATES Don’t miss these new opportunities and events at the spring market. 5% back on all market warehouse orders Save even more on all market warehouse orders when you join us in Houston. Excludes Sneak Peek orders. Win up to $25,000 at the Market Mixer We’re giving away $25,000, $15,000, and $10,000 in store credit at the Market Mixer. All you have to do is attend! Then join us for the Merchandising Preview on Sunday morning where we’ll announce the winners. Special keynote with George W. Bush Enjoy an enlightened evening on leadership with a talk by Dan Starr, followed by a fireside chat with President George W. Bush. See more on page 7. Houston, we have a MARKET! NASA’s Mission Control Center, responsible for overseeing spaceflight operations, is based in Houston. It played a crucial role in historic events like the Apollo moon landing.
Sneak Peek is officially supersized Shop supersized deals from 100 Sneak Peek vendors. These are the best deals of the market and offer a valuable opportunity to maximize your margin. Enter the market floor to release your orders—no badge scanning required. Bonus: Enjoy 2% 6 months dating on all Sneak Peek orders! Market Buys Big savings! Shop tens of thousands of items priced only for our market on the Market Savings Builder. All orders are due by April 5 at 8 pm ET. Market Closeouts Benefit from great last-call pricing online. Use these products to draw in customers to your store with a blowout sale! Submit your orders before March 25 at 8 pm ET. Act quickly—once it’s gone, it’s gone! LBM Super Specials Score unbeatable deals on core lumber and building materials categories on March 24 until 4 pm ET. Talk to the LBM team to learn about the many opportunities to save. Win up to $25,000 at the Market Mixer We’re giving away $25,000, $15,000, and $10,000 in store credit at the Market Mixer. Then join us for the Merchandising Preview on Sunday morning where we’ll announce the winners. 5% back on all market warehouse orders Get ready to giddyup. Score an additional 5% off your order total on all non-Sneak Peek orders when you attend the market. You’ll receive 5% of your purchases back in the form of a statement credit. SPRING MARKET PLANNING GUIDE | 3 BIGGER BUYING OPPORTUNITIES Everything is bigger in Texas, especially the savings. Don’t miss out on these major opportunities to maximize your market buys.
EXPLORE THE MARKET FLOOR Browse featured categories, shop bulk deals, and discover your new favorite products. Launch Zone Find the newest, most innovative products to debut in the hardware channel. Your customers will love products that solve their home repair problems in new ways, and our hand-picked Launch Zone vendors are ready to demonstrate them all weekend long. 4 | SPRING MARKET PLANNING GUIDE 2025 Patio Showcase Try it before you buy it! For the first time, we’re showcasing the items in the Patio Pre-Planner so you can prepare for the 2025 season better than ever before. New Item Gallery Uncover hot new items. Our merchandising experts have hand picked over a thousand trending items stocked in our warehouses, conveniently showcased in one place. Visit vendor booths for more information and to place your orders right from the floor. The Vault We’re opening the Do it Best vault for a limited time—available only at the spring market. Featuring an exclusive supply of deeply discounted items, quantities are limited and will go quickly. Don’t miss this chance to score significant savings before the vault closes at market’s end. Pallet Specials Check out full pallets, partial pallets, and floor displays. Work these deals into your endcap or power aisle promotional plan. Pass along the savings to your customers and improve your price perception or earn additional margin.
SPRING MARKET PLANNING GUIDE | 5 A 360-degree Shopping Experience Step into a Texas-sized shopping experience with our Solutions in Action storefront. Located at the heart of the market floor, this real-world exhibit features a best-in-class home center loaded with proven solutions to grow your sales. Engage with Power Aisle Promotions, Category Solutions, and Core Solutions built for peak performance, all presented in our award-winning store design. Chart Your Path Use the Solutions in Action guide as your map while you shop the full-scale home center. Designed with onsite shopping in mind, the guide features planograms across all categories, making it easy to choose custom solutions for your store. Market tip: Take measurements of these departments before you leave your store to know exactly the space you have to showcase the top products your customers want. Pro Zone Create the perfect assortment for your lumberyard or pro-focused business. We’re offering a full lineup of convenience pro sets of tools and building materials, located inside Solutions in Action. Create a Paint Destination Keep growing your store’s abilities and offerings as a paint destination with the most robust paint program in the industry. Explore our extensive selection of premium and professional paints including Do it Best Paints, Benjamin Moore, Valspar, and Glidden. Combined with top paint sundries brands like 3M, DAP, Graco, Purdy, Werner, and Wooster, we have everything you need to offer your customers the complete paint assortment. SOLUTIONS IN ACTION
6 | SPRING MARKET PLANNING GUIDE LBM Industry Update Saturday, March 23 | 12 pm Lunch served at 11:45 am Marriott Marquis | Houston Ballroom IV-VII See our expert LBM team live and on stage where they’ll share the latest insights on industry trends, challenges, and opportunities. THE MAIN EVENTS Launch your market mission with our lineup of live events. Preview the best deals of the market, hear an industry update from LBM professionals, and hear exciting major updates and announcements. Market Kickoff Saturday, March 23 | 3:15 pm Marriott Marquis | Texas Ballroom Meet us at the main stage as we announce major system enhancements and exciting new ways for you to partner with your co-op for success. Market Mixer Saturday, March 23 | 4:15 pm Market Floor | GRB Convention Center Network with other members and the Do it Best team and enjoy exclusive access to Sneak Peek vendors during the Market Mixer. The market floor will only be open to Sneak Peek vendors and members during this time, making it easy to target and secure the best deals. Merchandising Preview Sunday, March 24 | 7:30 am Breakfast served at 7 am Marriott Marquis | Texas Ballroom Rise and shine! Join us for breakfast as our Merchandising team takes to the main stage to showcase new products, vendors, and market exclusives. Use your Merchandising Preview buying guide to plan your list of must-see specials and vendors. Market Tip: Arrive early, save your seat, and buckle up. This event fills up quickly.
SPRING MARKET PLANNING GUIDE | 7 A Conversation with President George W. Bush Enjoy a fireside chat with special guest George W. Bush, 43rd President of the United States and Founder of the George W. Bush Presidential Center, hosted by Curtis Smith. As Commander in Chief, President Bush worked to expand freedom, opportunity, and security at home and abroad. His Administration reformed America’s education system, restored robust private-sector economic growth and job creation, protected our environment, and pursued a comprehensive strategy to keep America safe after the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001. 5:00 pm - Doors open. 6:00 pm - Doors close. Late admission is not permitted. Navigating the Helm: Leadership Insights Embark on a journey into the heart of leadership with Do it Best President & CEO Dan Starr. As leaders, we all embody common, learned traits. Join us for a concise and impactful exploration of leadership excellence, offering actionable takeaways for leaders at every stage of their journey. Event Reception Sunday, March 24 | 7:30 pm Marriott Marquis | Houston Ballroom Continue your evening with insightful conversations while you make valuable connections over heavy hors d’oeuvres and complimentary drinks. PERSPECTIVES ON LEADERSHIP with special guest President George W. Bush 43rd President of the United States Sunday, March 24 | 6 pm | Marriott Marquis | Texas Ballroom ATTENDANCE GUIDELINES Attendees must pre-register. Attendance guidelines are available on the website.
8 | SPRING MARKET PLANNING GUIDE TECHNOLOGY Discover How WMS and DOMS Can Work for You Brian Etzler and Jared Hufford | 8:45-10 am Dive into the enhancements in documentation and delivery experience achieved through our new WMS system. During this session, you’ll review mydoitbest Admin, step through the process of setting up your electronic delivery of paperwork, and select how your packing lists are organized. Amplify Your Business with AI Hart Brown | 8:45-10 am and 10:30-11:45 am Unpack the biggest misconceptions of AI, its benefits and limitations, and how to leverage it as a business tool. You’ll learn three areas where AI will have the greatest impact and learn how to train your team to effectively use it as a tool to drive growth. Epicor Eagle: Data Import Tools Max Pollard | 10:30-11:45 am Uncover ways to simplify, save time, and improve the quality of your data using existing import tools and managing it in your Epicor Eagle POS. For the last 30 years, Max has assisted retailers in selecting the best technology to reach their business goals. Increase Your ROI with BisTrack and Do it Best Michael Roise | 10:30-11:45 am Discover ways to increase your software ROI through existing features, business intelligence, and add-ons. Take away action items you can implement in your business as you learn from BisTrack expert Michael Roise, with nearly a decade of BisTrack experience in the LBM industry. Preparing Your Business for Ecommerce Max Pollard | 1:30-2:45 pm Learn how to prepare your POS system to participate in the Do it Best ecommerce platform. From inventory accuracy to educating your staff on simplifying a successful online experience, you’ll leave with a full understanding of what’s next in your digital journey. Get Organized with BisTrack Michael Roise | 1:30-2:45 pm Take a detailed look at product and catalog setup and handling units of measure. Learn from industry expert Michael Roise, with nearly a decade of BisTrack experience in the LBM industry. Brian Etzler Do it Best Anne Obarski Merchandise Concepts Kim Peffley NHPA Corbin Prows Do it Best Max Pollard Epicor Lee Resnick Resnick Succession Group Terry Resnick Resnick Succession Group Michael Roise Epicor Brianna Wells Do it Best Patrick Pleiss Hyperlocology Jared Hufford Do it Best Learn from the best in the business with our lineup of Knowledge Central sessions designed to build your know-how and enhance your skills. KNOWLEDGE CENTRAL Hart Brown Future Point of View Rod Bristol Profit Soup
INCREASING SALES The Power of Your Website Corbin Prows and Brianna Wells | 8:45-10 am and 1:30-2:45 pm Discover pro tips to unleash the full potential of your Do it Best website. Learn how to leverage the platform to connect with customers and propel your sales. Delivering Excellence in Your Customer’s Experience Anne Obarski | 8:45-10 am and 1:30-2:45 pm Uncover the keys to building a successful customer experience initiative that goes beyond “Have a nice day.” Explore the critical components of a ‘touchpoint’ score and delve into the essential roles your employees play. Learn from marketplace leaders, discover the elements of a robust company culture, and establish a system of ongoing training to drive continuous success in your customer experience journey. Drive More Sales with Digital Marketing Patrick Pleiss | 10:30-11:45 am Empower your marketing strategy, measure success, and pave the way for growth when you attend this session. Understand the customer journey, learn how to digitally target your audience, and capture their attention with quality content. Then use data analytics to measure and build upon your success. BUSINESS MANAGEMENT Navigating the Upcoming Tax Law Shift and Safeguarding Business Sustainability Lee and Terry Resnick | 8:45-10 am Explore how the upcoming reduction in the federal estate tax exemption will impact business owners. Plus, explore retention programs for Do it Best members that preserve ownership while keeping essential employees engaged in the current labor climate. Profitable Pathways: Steering Clear of Big Financial Mistakes Rod Bristol | 10:30-11:45 am and 1:30-2:45 pm Explore top financial mistakes business leaders make that negatively impact profits and uncover steps you can take to avoid them. Assess your own situation to see if these mistakes are derailing your store’s progress toward continuous improvement. Then, brainstorm with your peers about possible systems, skill sets, reporting, and accountability to use to correct the mistakes. 7 Tips to Build Your Leadership Bench Kim Peffley | 1:30-2:45 pm Explore seven essential tips that can help you cultivate and develop a strong team of leaders within your organization. These tips will enable you to create a robust leadership pipeline, ensuring the long-term success and growth of your store. Learn how to create a culture of leadership development, empower your employees, and build a team of capable leaders who will drive your store forward. CONTINUE BUILDING YOUR KNOWLEDGE Build your knowledge year-round with online and in-person learning opportunities designed to maximize your co-op knowhow and your professional growth as business leaders in your communities. FREE ONLINE TRAINING LIBRARY for Do it Best members and their employees Build your team’s expertise with courses for every role in your business. The Learning Zone is available through mydoitbest on any device 24/7. To learn more, visit the booth in Programs & Services. LBM Academy April 16–18 This three-day, interactive education course combines the concepts of lumber and building materials, best business practices, and current design trends and tools. LBM Academy has course tracks designed for every role in your business including associates, designers, managers, and owners. Leadership Development Institute (LDI) April 22–26 | October 14–18 Do it Best offers the Leadership Development Institute to provide the tools and concepts to understand why people do what they do and how leaders can effectively manage themselves, their team, and their business. College of Retail Education (CORE) August 5–8 | November 11–14 CORE is a comprehensive orientation program that introduces attendees to Do it Best systems, programs, operations, and staff. This program is the best and fastest way to learn how to leverage your co-op partnership and is recommended for all key store employees and managers. LBM Pro Sales School October 9-11 Join us for an exclusive seminar with Bradley Hartmann designed specifically for Do it Best. This is a can’t-miss course for pro-focused outside salespeople and LBM sales managers. SPRING MARKET PLANNING GUIDE | 9
10 | SPRING MARKET PLANNING GUIDE EXPLORE THE CITY Alive with energy and rich in diversity, Houston is a dynamic mix of imagination, talent, and first-class attractions that makes it a world-class city. George R. Brown Convention Center Nestled in downtown Houston, the convention center is located in the heart of the action. Within a few blocks, you’ll find Minute Maid Park (home of the Houston Astros), Shell Energy Stadium (the Texas Dynamo soccer club plays here), and Toyota Center (home of the Houston Rockets). Discovery Green Look outside the convention center windows and you’ll find Discovery Green, a modern 12-acre park featuring Kinder Lake (with kayak rentals), playgrounds (including a putting green), bocce and shuffleboard courts, endless art installations, and botanical gardens. CREATE YOUR BUYING PLAN Ready, set, save! Make note of these key dates to score the biggest deals before, during, and after the market. Sneak Peek Live: February 26 at 8 am ET Orders due by: March 25 at 8 pm ET Market Buys Live: February 26 at 8 am ET Orders due by: April 5 at 8 pm ET Market Closeouts Live: March 11 at 11 am EST Orders due by: March 25 at 8 pm ET Pallet Specials Live: February 26 at 8 am ET Orders due by: April 5 at 8 pm ET New Item Gallery Live: March 11 at 11 am ET Orders due by: April 5 at 8 pm ET LBM Super Specials Live: Sunday, March 24 Orders due by: 4 pm (close of market floor) Save an extra 5% off all market warehouse orders (excludes Sneak Peek). Score 2% 6 month dating on all Sneak Peek orders. Houston was the first word spoken from the surface of the moon.
SPRING MARKET PLANNING GUIDE | 11 Close for Comfort Location is everything for these eateries within a quick walk of the convention center. The Rustic | 1836 Polk St. Take a walk on the savory side with wild boar meatballs and prickly pear fries. Grotto | 1001 Avenida de las Americas, Suite A Upscale Italian favorites, conveniently located at Avenida Houston and connected to the George R. Brown Convention Center. Saltgrass Steak House | 1001 Avenida De Las Americas, Suite B Located in the George R. Brown Convention Center, this eatery features everyone’s favorite foods. Family Favorites Houston’s top picks for family dining. The Lake House | 1600 McKinney St. Located on the south shore of Kinder Lake, in the heart of Discovery Green park. Here you’ll find kid-approved picks along with adult-level eats, like a Kobe beef hot dog. Vinny’s | 1201 St. Emanuel St. Everybody loves pizza, especially Vinny’s pies by the slice. Houston’s Best BBQ Among the city’s list of the best barbeque spots, these picks are the closest to the convention center stomping grounds. Pappas Bar-B-Q | 1217 Pierce St. Slow-smoked, juicy, and multi-generational. Try their smoky brisket with warm homemade barbeque sauce. Brookstreet Bar-B-Q | 1009 Missouri St. Dine in, enjoy a meal al fresco, or take advantage of the drive-thru and take your meal to-go. Fun for All Try these top places to snack, drink, and play during your visit. Puttshack | 1200 McKinney St. Tee up, eat up, and drink up. Try your hand at tech-boosted mini golf with multiple indoor courses tucked throughout an electric bar with big-city style. 810 Billiards and Bowling | 1201 San Jacinto St., Suite 321 Rack ‘em up and knock ‘em down. Get social with bowling, billiards, arcade games, darts, shuffleboard, ping pong, and more. EAT LIKE A LOCAL With a bustling international food scene, Houston is home to the region’s best places to eat and drink.
12 |Spring Market Planning Guide P.O. Box 868 Fort Wayne, IN 46801-0868 JOIN US IN THE FALL Mark your calendar for the fall market September 6–9 in Indianapolis. MARCH 23-25 | HOUSTON George R. Brown Convention Center