In a world where big-box stores dominate the hardware industry, one co-op is bucking the trend by empowering its 9,000+ member-owned stores to compete with the giants. This episode, we're joined by Justin Hanford from Do It Best, a company that's been returning over $100 million in patronage dividends to its members for 19 consecutive years. That's real money that store owners can use to reinvest in their businesses and grow their communities.

As a co-op, Do It Best offers its members a unique business model that allows them to pool their resources and negotiate better prices on products and services. This means they can compete with the likes of Lowe's and Home Depot, which would be a daunting task for individual stores to tackle on their own. But it's not just about the products – it's also about the services and technology that help store owners stay ahead of the curve.

From loyalty programs to e-commerce platforms, Do It Best is helping its members stay relevant in a rapidly changing market. And it's not just about the big picture – it's also about the personal touch that comes with shopping at a local, independently owned store. As Justin shares, many of these stores have become lifestyle destinations, offering everything from grills and coolers to unique products that set them apart from the big-box stores.

If you're curious about how this co-op model is working for its members, and how Do It Best is helping them stay ahead of the competition, tune in to this interview to hear Justin's insights.