For the past 59 years, the Retailers’ Choice Awards, presented by the North American Hardware and Paint Association, have highlighted the best products on display at the National Hardware Show. The Retailers’ Choice Awards differ from most award programs as the judges’ panel is exclusively independent home improvement retailers who know best what sells in the channel. The judges walk the show floor looking for those products they feel would be bestselling options in any independent operation.
This year’s panel included:
- Jared Brown, Aubuchon Hardware
- Neal DeLowery, Aubuchon Hardware
- Joel Pletch, Walkerton Home Hardware
- Eddie Grundy, Carthage Hardware
- Christian Herrick, Randy’s Do it Best Hardware
- Jay Enberg, Busy Beaver Building Centers
Paint Roller
The BetterGrip 9-inch Paint Roller Kit includes a main handle, two arms, a roller cover and an extension handle. Its center-balanced handle allows equal pressure application for consistent paint coverage. This roller accommodates nine-inch roller covers and is compatible with extension poles for hard-to-reach areas.
BetterGrip | bettergrippaintroller.com
Bucket Handle
BucketGrips are detachable handles that attach to two-, three- and five-gallon buckets to help distribute weight and make carrying easier. These patent-pending grips reduce hand strain during lifting and are designed for quick attachment and removal. Suitable for use in construction, painting, gardening or any task involving heavy buckets.
BucketGrips | bucketgrips.com
Adhesive Remover
The TakeOff Adhesive Remover is a two ounce spray bottle with a non-toxic, eco-friendly solution made from 100% organic compound that dissolves sticker adhesive, tar, grease, tree sap, oil, grime, chewing gum and other stubborn residents. This spray leaves no residue behind and is safe for use on sealed surfaces.
DS Cleaning Kits, Inc. | takeoffwipe.com
Utility Scaffold
The ScaffoldMart 5-foot Utility Scaffold is a foldable, mobile work platform designed for stability and versatility. It includes three configurable platforms, a telescoping handrail and an integrated tool shelf. The scaffold supports up to 900 pounds and features 5-inch double-locking casters for mobility. It folds flat for transport and is suitable for indoor or outdoor use.
Scaffoldmart | scaffoldmart.com
Drywall Patch Kit
The Waitless Wall-Patch Kit by Wall-Russ is designed to repair small wall anchor holes quickly and efficiently. The kit includes a hand tool with a metal blade to shave wall texture, a safety cap for blending seams, six light-texture patches, six heavy-texture patches and a pick for cleaning the blade. Suitable for textured drywall surfaces, this kit allows for seamless repairs without the need for spackle or sanding.
Wall-Russ Tools | wallrusstools.com
Ergonomic Paintbrush
The FreeForm Grip-Free Paintbrush is an angled brush with a patented ergonomic handle that rests on top of the hand. This design shifts the weight away from the fingers, allowing the arm to support the load and reducing strain during extended use. The brushes feature stainless steel ferrules and tapered synthetic filaments, suitable for various painting tasks.
FreeForm Brush Inc. | freeformbrush.com
