HOME DEPOT AND LOWE’S ATTENTION TO PROS SHOW DOUBLE DIGIT SALES INCREASES

Both Home Depot and Lowe’s report that they have increased sales to professional customers by double digits. They have taken several steps to seek out professional and MRO buyers, including adding products to their pro business lines as well as offering new services, making it easier for pro customers to order and receive supplies. “We continue to strengthen our pro business, driving comps well above the company average, by further advancing our products and services offering to better serve the pro customer,” said Lowe's COO Ricky Damron during the company's Q1 earnings conference call.

Lowe’s has developed an omni-channel approach to pro business, using Account Executive Pro Services with more than 180 representatives in the field. They also have a targeted marketing strategy aimed at the professional customer and buying events in store to generate new business.

Home Depot offers pros private label cards with extended terms and special return policies. They are also expanding a flexible delivery program seven days a week and next-day delivery, as well as in-store pick-up in 2 hours. Home Depot says it currently has a small percentage of sales in building and maintenance and Menear said “we think there’s lots of opportunity to grow.”

Source: Inddist.com

Lowe's Improves Lowesforpros.com Website for Professional Customers

Lowe’s used feedback from professional customers to test and launch an improved LowesforPros.com website. Professional customers can make and track purchases of more than a half a million items via computer, tablet or smartphone. Customers can choose to buy online and pick-up in store or have their orders delivered directly to their business or job location.

Lowe’s intent is to make their LowesforPros.com a complete online solution to develop requisition lists, access purchasing reports and create custom catalogs that enable their customers to maintain their brand across multiple buyers and locations. The site also provides customers with purchase approvals and ability to process tax-exempt purchases.

The site also provides industry resources and gives 5% off online purchases with Lowe’s Business Credit.

"LowesForPros.com helps Pros save time, money and run their businesses as efficiently as possible," said Mike Horn, Lowe's vice president of ProServices. "Pros have the ability to buy online and pick-up in-store or have orders delivered directly to their business or jobsite while taking advantage of the 5 percent discount every day wherever they choose to shop with us – through their mobile device, tablet or computer. This new website was designed by the Pro, for the Pro."

Source: Retailing Today