BOUCHERVILLE, Que. ― Lowe’s is planning a “gradual evolution” at RONA after closing its acquisition of the larger Canadian retailer, according to the Canadian Press. “It’s not something that will happen overnight,” Lowe’s Canada CEO Sylvain Prud’homme told a press conference at RONA’s headquarters. “[Consumers] will see some changes in the early stages but I think it’s probably going to come to a point where early 2017 is probably going to be where you are going to see some major changes.” Those changes will include ramped-up e-retail offerings and the roll-out of appliances.
In the meantime, Lowe’s will focus on building brand awareness in the Canadian market, retaining the existing RONA banners. “We are going to make sure that we have the proper big box store in Québec,” said Prudh’homme. “It doesn’t mean at this point that they will be branded Lowe’s.” Other possibilities include the opening of more Réno-Dépôt stores outside Quebec. HARDLINES’ own intrepid editor Michael McLarney told Report on Business that Lowe’s is likely looking to emulate Home Hardware’s success in establishing brand recognition. “Home Depot may have the biggest sales but Home Hardware still has the biggest brand awareness,” he said.
