Keeping up with today’s more savvy consumer might be challenging to some stores, but not Hartman’s True Value that is flexible and eager to meet just about any need.
It means having the kind of merchandise that today’s buyer wants, and that’s why store Manager Eddie Hartman is pleased they carry quality goods like Yeti and Stihl chainsaws.“We have new stuff coming out like a new 12-quart soft bag for cold items,” he said.
The “indestructible” product makes it a good seller at the store, Hartman said. This cooler is used for hunting, recreation and even on construction sites.
“There isn’t a situation I can’t think of where it’s not applicable. Yeti is the pioneer of these coolers … the rugged outdoor, indestructible cooler,” Hartman said. “It can go anywhere. It can be used as a ladder, as well as a cooler. It’s why I carry it.”
Although he hasn’t seen them yet, he’s heard a new expanded, larger cooler line is coming around Christmas.
At Hartman’s, the Stihl brand is part of the store’s growing power tools line.
“They’re the No. 1 saw manufacturer worldwide, an 80-year-old company … U.S. made,” Hartman said. “Honestly, there isn’t a model that isn’t suitable for somebody no matter what you’re doing.”
Chainsaws are a big item for hunting season.
“Our power equipment side has evolved more than anything else,” he said. “We added the Echo line of power equipment about four years ago.”
Knowing what customers want is easy for Hartman’s, an established 30-year-old, family-owned store in Boutte. The business has been at 13171 U.S. Highway 90 for 25 years and earned customers’ trust for quality goods.
Business has grown 30 percent in the last 15 years, reflecting a growing customer base. Hartman added their growth has paralleled the growth of St. Charles Parish, widening both clients and market area.
“We’re more easily adaptable,” he said. “I can update the inventory of the store faster. I can add merchandise as needed quicker. I’m not a big box. I can bring an item as requested.”
Keeping pace with today’s buyer is critical for any business, Hartman said. They’ve become younger, more prone to looking online before coming in the store, and they’re coming in knowing what they want. Earlier customers averaged 40 to 60 years old as opposed to today’s 25 to 50 years old.
“You’re talking about catering to a different clientele than when we started this 30 years ago. They’re a more informed buyer,” he said. “For any small business, you have to change that environment as that clientele changes.”
Today’s customer is definitely more tech savvy, as well. Hartman said they are more apt to get on their cell phone or tablet to look up an item before making the purchase.
They know exactly what they product they want down to the ratings of paint.
“In many cases, it makes our job a little easier,” Hartman said. “They can pull a picture online and show us what they want. If we don’t have it, we can find it and add it to our inventory.”
To reach Hartman’s True Value Hardware, call (985)785-1352. The store is at 13171 U.S. Highway 90 in Boutte.
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