Hardlines Announces Ownership Transition

Hardlines Inc. has announced a change in ownership and leadership. David Chestnut has purchased the company from founder and president Michael McLarney and has assumed the role of president. He was previously vice-president, publisher, and a business partner in the firm.

McLarney launched Hardlines more than 30 years ago, building it from a weekly fax newsletter into a multiplatform information provider. It serves the information, research, and networking needs of retailers, store managers, head offices, suppliers, and pro dealers across the home improvement sector.

Chestnut joined Hardlines in 2016 in a senior sales leadership role and has since played an integral part in the company’s growth. He has been instrumental in expanding advertising revenues and forging strategic
partnerships with key industry organizations across both the vendor and retail sectors.

As president, Chestnut will continue advancing Hardlines’ position as a primary news and intelligence source for the industry.

“I’m looking forward to building on the legacy that Michael established,” Chestnut said. “The home improvement industry in Canada is dynamic and ever-changing. Hardlines is committed to supporting it with valuable information and insights that help drive business forward.”

Hardlines products include its flagship Hardlines Weekly Report newsletter and quarterly trade magazines
Hardlines Home Improvement Quarterly and Hardlines PRO Dealer. The annual Hardlines Conference is the industry’s premier event, attracting major retailer and supplier executives. The upcoming conference in Ottawa, Oct. 21 and 22, will mark Hardlines’ 30th anniversary.

McLarney will remain involved with Hardlines as its editor-at-large. “I am excited to watch Hardlines grow to new heights under David and his team,” he said, “and I am pleased to be able to continue in a role that will contribute to that growth.”

ABOUT HARDLINES
Hardlines Inc. is Canada’s leading authority on the retail home improvement industry. Hardlines’ products and services include a range of online newsletters and two print trade magazines, plus dedicated research and events, including the Hardlines Conference every October. The company is committed to helping the industry it serves with networking, news, insights, and thought leadership.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
David Chestnut, President at Hardlines Inc.
416-725-7992, david@hardlines.ca

Steve Payne, Editor-in-Chief at Hardlines Inc.
416-219-9949, steve@hardlines.ca