On March 31, John Venhuizen will step from behind the scenes into one of the most front-and-center posts in the hardware business — that of CEO of Ace Hardware Corp. After standing and delivering a motivational presentation to thousands of dealers at the co-op's Spring Convention & Exhibits in New Orleans, he sat down with HCN.

HCN: What worries you as you step into the CEO role?

A landmark settlement in toxic drywall cases was reached today, one that may  bring relief to thousands of homeowners and put an end to hundreds of state and federal cases filed against insulation manufacturers.  

Joining the ranks of new Ace Hardware dealers is Ralph Peperone, a retired police lieutenant from New Orleans who plans to open a 10,322-sq.-ft. store in the town of Oakland, Tenn., according to an article in the Memphis Business Journal.

National pro dealer 84 Lumber is exploring the idea of a construction trades training program in the New Orleans and Baton Rouge, La. markets, according to an article in The Advocate.

The 2011 Ace Hardware Spring Convention and Exhibits held last week in Chicago saw a significant boost in attendance from the two previous years, according to the Oak Brook, Ill.-based hardware co-op.

Retailer attendance was up 36% compared with Ace's previous spring show in New Orleans. The Chicago event also posted a 17% increase in attendance compared with the spring show held two years ago in Las Vegas. 

Total convention attendance in Chicago topped out at about 15,000, according to Ace.