STIHL Hardware All Stars recognizes one hardware store, lumberyard, or home center from each state that has found success amid retail transformation. Through consistent innovation, determination, and community engagement, these independents prove they are resilient in their markets, and capable of thriving anywhere.
The criteria includes:
- Innovation in operations, marketing or merchandising.
- High performance, exhibited through expansion or sales growth.
- Customer-centricity, community involvement and a commitmen to the traditions of the hardware and building supply industry.
The LMC Dealers that have earned their spot on the 2026 list include:
Dakota County Lumber (Minnesota): Founder Steve Finden built Dakota County Lumber on a simple principle: If he could build better loads and deliver materials with the needs of the builders in mind, the business would thrive. Today, Dakota County is led by "Chief Everything Officer" Sunny Bowman, who has been the sole owner since 2018. Bowman says her goal is to double revenue at Dakota's Farmington location and to expand "to at least one other strategic location" in the Minneapolis metro region. Dakota County Lumber has been an LMC Dealer since 2020.
Water Mill Building Supply (New York): Founded in 1986, Water Mill Building Supply has evolved from a modest Montauk Highway hardware shop into a premier resource for Eastern Long Island. Under the stewardship of Trade Supply Group since 2008, the company has undergone significant expansion, including a renovated showroom, an outside sales team, and the addition of Simon's Hardware and Bath. Today, it "super serves" builders and architects with premium materials ranging from engineered beams to luxury fixtures. By combining legacy family values with modern technology, Water Mill remains a cornerstone for the Hamptons' construction community. Water Mill Building Supply has been an LMC Dealer since 2014.
Cumberland Supply Co. (Pennsylvania): Atop an oversized novelty Adirondack chair (the kind you see at theme parks), the staff at Newville, Pennsylvania-based Cumberland Supply Co. deliver pro and DIY tips in a video series called "The Chair." Topics range from marking for accurate cuts to the major decisions that guide pole barn builds. In addition to its educational and entertaining Facebook Reels, this All Star distinguishes itself through the combination of a full-service lumberyard and a specialized manufacturing facility. Meanwhile, the showroom offers a comprehensive selection of windows, doors, and hardware. Cumberland Supply Co. has been an LMC Dealer since 2023.
rk Miles (Vermont): Question: why the lowercase "rk" in rk Miles when three former company leaders were named Richard K. Miles? Answer: Because it's not about the person, it's about the company. The r and k remain lowercase. With nine New England locations, mostly in Vermont, rk Miles is a fourth-generation family business that appreciates its role as an employer and partner in the communities it serves. The mission is clear: to strive to be the most reliable, responsive, informed, and caring supplier of building materials and related products and services. Current president Joe Miles is a big believer in leading "basic training" for all employees, especially in the art of helpful service. rk Miles has been an LMC Dealer since 2006.
Zuern Building Products & Design Center (Wisconsin): Quality. Family. Independence. Those are some of the guiding ideas that drive the 10-location Zuern Building Products & Design Center forward. "I think our culture really wins the day—and our team," said company president Tom Zuern. Professionalism shows up in every corner of the business. Visitors to Zuern's yards and showrooms immediately notice the difference. The facilities, racks, trucks, and equipment are clean, well maintained, and purposefully designed to impress. "Expectations now are higher than ever," said Jen Zuern (Tom's cousin). "I think you either adapt to it and figure out a way to rise with them, or you're left in the dust." Zuern Building Products Inc. has been a LMC Dealer since 1984.
