Handy Hardware celebrates 50 years

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Houston-based co-op Handy Hardware celebrated its 50th Anniversary during its Fall Market in San Antonio. The co-op has about 1,300 dealer locations. 

Merchandising VP Mickey Schulte ran down the show specials during a Saturday morning breakfast. Earlier, new CEO Ken White made his first Handy market speech.  He addressed issues with distribution inaccuracies, described 2012 as a turnaround year and thanked members for their loyalty. "We know that we have to earn your business back," White said. 

Handy Hardware president Tina Kirbie greeted attendees at the entrance to the show floor. Here, she speaks with board member Ken Blackman of Ken's Discount Building Materials in El Dorado, Ark.

Carlos Bolivar, representing Anderle Lumber Co. of Cameron, Texas, finds a place to relax on the show floor in San Antonio.

At the event's 50th Anniversary breakfast event, Handy Hardware retail district managers Lamar Chapman, left, and Hubert Bailey were recognized for their many years of quality service to the co-op and its members. 

Ladonna Vaughn and Gayle Vaughn of J&G Variety in Athens, Ala., taste the fudge at the Calico Cottage booth. Calico's Liz Cannetti describes the product as a high-margin niche category for hardware stores.

A Golden Anniversary party on Saturday night at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center included the sounds of a Mariachi band.

Kathy Cobb of Cobb Building Materials in San Antonio and Ralph Sanchez, also of Cobb, pose for the camera during Handy's Saturday night anniversary party.  

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