Multiformat, multibrand Central Network Retail Group (CNRG) will open seven stores in California, all in locations formerly operated by Orchard Supply Hardware. Lowe’s acquired Orchard Hardware Supply in 2013, and closed all 99 locations nationwide in August 2018 as part of its collective effort to focus on its home improvement business.
CNRG will create a new brand for the seven new branches, called Outdoor Supply Hardware. Outdoor Supply Hardware will become the 16th brand operated by CNRG. CNRG will bring its own merchandising assortments to the stores, but the retailer said it will strive to honor the long-standing appeal of Orchard Supply by offering many of the same products and services.
“These stores have meant so much to these communities over the years and we are excited to be able to bring them back to life,” said John Sieggreen, CNRG president. “These are fantastic locations in highly trafficked shopping centers and we look forward to getting them staffed and merchandised in the next few months so we can be open sometime this fall.”
Collierville, Tenn.-based CNRG ranked 60th in size on the 2018 ProSales 100 and operates 104 hardware stores, home centers, and lumberyards across the country. Its diverse portfolio meant CNRG only generated 27% of its 2017 sales from pros.