IHL’s Spring Hardware Investor Showcase!

After weeks of hard work, we are thrilled to present our newest Hardware Investor Flyer to the world! This season, we have so many wonderful offers for our loyal customers that I thought I’d put together a showcase of some of the Investor’s best and brightest deals.

Firstly, beginning April 27^th, when you buy a 20V kit from Dewalt, you receive your choice of: a 12V-20V/ 7.2-18V Dual Charger, a 20V Impact Driver, or a 3.0 ah battery – FREE!

Dewalt always strives to be number one in their field, and the fact that they are continuously evolving to meet their users’ needs certainly reflects this. The dual charger they are offering is a great example of this: the charging station- which houses spots for both their classic stick (XRP) battery, and their newer, faster, lighter, stronger, slide pack battery- ensures that no battery format is ignored.

This FREE giveaway is for the first 200 customers only, with the purchase of a 20V kit, so, come Friday, don’t delay!

Another great deal found in our Investor is from another brand customers know and trust- Makita. Makita is offering a $50 or $20 Manufacturer’s Instant Discount on their 18V LXT218 2-Tool Kit, LXT608 6-Tool Combo Kit, or their 18V LXT ½” Hammer Drill Kits!   

  

Pioneers of the 18V motor, Makita recognizes the needs of their users, and have strived to deliver the best performance from their tools. Makita’s motors allow heavy and prolonged use before their batteries run-out, and lasts longer than the competition!

This Manufacturer’s Instant Discount is not available in the box stores, and you can take advantage of these great prices throughout the Spring season!

Finally, I want to bring your attention to some of the quality products in our Investor from Stabila.  Stabila is a company who, for more than a century and
 a half, has produced innovative, precision-made tools
 in the time-honored tradition of 
German craftsmanship.

One of the best deals in our flyer, the Stabila 10” Torpedo level- with a heavy-duty, die-cast aluminum frame, multiple and adjustable viles, and a magnetic and v-grooved bottom for fitting on pipes- comes with a free 27’ measuring tape, for only $39.00! This tape measure has measurements on both sides, an 8’ standout, heavy nylon coating, and a shock absorber for fast recoil. 

The amazing prices and great deals in our Investor are certainly not limited to the products discussed above- download our flyer here, or pick it up in-store to see everything the Spring Hardware Investor has to offer! 

If you aren’t already on our mailing list, email alison@investmentshardware.com with your email or mailing address to receive future issues of the Hardware Investor, and other great offers from IHL!

Big Changes in the IHL Showroom Ensure the Customer is #1

With Spring comes rebirth and change: this theme is certainly in concert with the changes we have been experiencing here at the IHL Showroom and retail store over the last 9 months. Although in operation since 1985, IHL has only resided at 127B Aviva Park Drive for 7 years, and after much thought and careful planning, the redesign of our 10,000 square foot Showroom is one which we know will help us serve you better, and more efficiently, than ever.   

Our IHL Showroom: before

I’m sure you’ve noticed big changes in the layout of our store since Summer 2011: this was the beginning of our store redesign- all done with you, our valued customer, and your best interests in mind.

As with any project of this size, there have been several stages and phases. To start, of course, we had to do a lot of research and planning. There were a few months of back and forth brainstorming, but when it came down to it, Joe Martino, CEO, knew what he wanted to accomplish.

Though the physical changes began just last summer, the research, planning, and redesign discussions began well before then. Our IHL Hardware Investor flyer has dramatically increased its circulation over the years and has successfully brought in new clientele. With the influx of customers, we began to notice that our Showroom needed a serious makeover. A major problem we encountered was that we would advertise a product in the flyer and many customers would walk in and not be able to find it… what’s the point in that? With a lot of teamwork and some internal restructuring, we are working to ensure this won’t be an issue any longer!

The redesign project hopes to accomplish several other goals and objectives, namely:

The ability to better highlight opportunities for savings and sales: IHL has the Construction Industry’s Best Deals, and we think everyone should benefit from all of the great products- and great prices- that we offer!

With this, we realized a need for better signage and flow: we want to make your shopping experience at IHL as easy and informative as possible. The changes to our Showroom will only serve to help you locate the products you want, and need.

As you know, our staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and approachable. We wanted to emphasize this, and, as part of the redesign, we now have dedicated floor staff to answer your questions and get you what you need. Paul and Slawek, our floor associates, have combined industry experience of over 20 years, and are in-store- and always on-floor- to help!

After the research and planning stage came Phase Two: construction. Last year, we began with the removal of the old racking system, construction of a new checkout center, and the allocation of space for the suppliers in the most demand. Security, as in any retail business, is an important issue to consider, so the decision to move the sales counter closer to the door was an easy one. A positive side effect of this move is that this new location makes it easier for us to greet you as you come through the door!

Most recently, within the last month, we have built an elevated platform at the east end of our store to showcase our major power tool suppliers like Dewalt, Bosch, Makita and Milwaukee. Now the brands you know and trust are displayed in a way you can’t miss!

Before our elevated platform

After! 

Next, we will be working on implementing the proper signage: aisle signs and hanging banners will ensure that your favourite store is easy to navigate, and the construction supplies you need are easy to find. Alongside this, new item racks will be introduced in order to feature a consistent design throughout the Showroom. The old Showroom was half occupied by tall racks, towering nearly to the roof: it had a real “warehouse” sort of feel to it. Now, with our new design, you can see the whole store, from one end to the other, without heavy and bulky storage racks impeding your view.

 The old Showroom's towering shelves

The New Showroom so far: looking good!

The IHL Showroom redesign project is set to be complete by the end of 2012. After that, we will be focused on perfecting our ecommerce store, www.ihlcanada.com: the only way to access the Construction Industry’s Best Deals 24/7!    

So, if you haven’t already, stop by soon and check out the evolution of our Showroom; we’re certain you’ll be impressed with the changes implemented so far, and the changes that are yet to come. See you there!

Caulk is Cheap, and other Quick March Break Renovation Tips

As you may know, March Break is just around the corner. If you do know this, chances are you have kids, and if you have kids, chances are you may be taking a few days off to be home with them. A few days off from work is the perfect chance to start- and finish- a quick home renovation!

Renovations can often feel like a daunting chore. If you’re not in the market for a full-on home reno,  but want to make your home look and feel like a more modern version of its old self, a weekend or a few days can be the perfect time frame for a quick spruce-up of any room.

Changing the floor of a room can make a phenomenal difference on how you look at a room (and even how much time you spend in it). IHL has knee pads, gloves, nail pullers, tape measures, and whatever else you may need for pulling up that old carpet, or lifting that scuffed and worn floor. Out with the old and in with the new!

Are you thinking about updating the laundry room or back porch, but working on a budget? Have a look on Craigslist for secondhand cabinetry. Make them your own by sanding them down, painting, and adding new hardware.

Get rid of brown and brittle, mildew-y caulk in your bathroom or kitchen in a flash. You’ve heard that talk is cheap, and luckily, so is caulk (okay, okay, I didn't make that up, but it's funny, right?). Recaulking your kitchen or bathroom takes only a few hours, and will instantly brighten the room, even on a shoestring budget.

Don’t just focus on the inside of the home this March Break. Spring will be here before we know it, so why not take advantage of our mild winter, and clean up the yard? This Garant rake will do the trick, as will this Erie wheelbarrow. These items will surely come in handy in the warm, landscaping months ahead!

Eager to get started, but unsure about how to use a certain tool, or what you may need to get the job done? Come into our store and chat with one of our helpful and knowledgeable staff: we’re here to help!  

Even if you’re not taking any time off work next week, you still have the weekend: so get a head start on spring and start those home renos and spring cleaning! Search the web for ideas on how to make a quick DIY renovation work for you and your home. Sites like thisoldhouse.com can offer plenty of tips and tricks for your one or two day renos, and, as always, all of us at IHL are here to help you get the job done!

Happy renos everyone!

Toolio's Top 10 Specials: on Now until March 13th !

Hi everyone,

Toolio here. It's been a while, so I thought I should update you all with some of the amazing deals we are currently offering.

My Top 10 Deals are back and in full swing! This time around we have plenty of amazing offers, with a little something for everyone. These deals are only available until March 13th, so don't delay! Here are a few of Toolio's Top 10 Specials:

Keep everything you need handy, and get the job done (at a great price!) with:

As we can see by the weather this week, winter isn't over just yet! Keep dry AND warm with these Baffin insulated rubber boots:

I know you've had your eye on this Milwaukee Compact Lithium Ion Impact Driver Kit... now's your chance to save!

But that's not all: take a look at the rest of the great deals we are offering, and don't forget: you can shop with us in-store, or 24/7 on the web, at www.IHLCANADA.com!

Showtime!

IHL’s front staff helps a lineup of customers during the DeWalt “Knockout Sale” - April, 2011

Here I am blogging again after a 4-month hiatus!

Before I move ahead with today’s precept, I’d like to thank the leaders of DeWalt, Makita, Bosch, and Milwaukee. My appreciation is equal. They’ve each chosen IHL to co-host some of the most exciting shows this industry has seen for a long time. And for that I am wholly grateful. DeWalt had great success with “Knockout Sale”.  So did Makita with “Speed Impulse” and the same goes for Milwaukee’s famous “RedLithium”, and Bosch’s “In it to Win It”. These shows were part of our 2011 spring-summer annual sale.

A prelude to the action

It starts with a successful marketing campaign. We reach out to interested end-users. Make sure they know about this very opportune time to reexamine there tool arsenal. Recalibrate. And, be ready for a new season.

Showtime! Excitement! Sale! Free Goods!

The shows were exciting. They ran for three days each. Much knowledge on tools’ optimum use, specs, and accessories were shared. Valuable information such as maintenance and warranties were passed along. Manufactures received instant feedback from end-users. A tremendous value - especially if the tool is newly introduced to the marketplace. Alongside this information exchange, a major sale was taking place. Tools and accessories were sold at low cost and often paired with freebies like batteries, blades and even autographs! This, as you can imagine, faired well for our contractors.

Many thanks.

I personally thank you for being part of our network. At IHL, we’re aimed at keeping you linked to the newest technologies being introduced to the construction market. I cannot emphasize enough, the great savings you get by being informed about these opportunities. So stay tuned. It seems DeWalt and Milwaukee might be brewing another round of shows at IHL!

@toolio127

Let’s connect. Stay informed. Get up to date info by subscribing to our e-mail list at investmentshardware.com or simply text “TOOLIO” to “22828.

Want more?

Visit IHLCanada.com to shop or browse the construction industry’s best deals.

FOR IMMIDIATE RELEASE:

Construction Supply Giant Celebrates a 25 Year Strong Commitment

A family business has flourished into a multi-million dollar company. As a team, the De Giorgio’s number one priority is to serve as a one-stop-shop for contractors. A special event will be held at IHL on Tuesday, July 20th.

Toronto, Ontario – July 14, 2010 – Investments Hardware Ltd. (IHL) is a construction and industrial supply centre located in Woodbridge, ON. This year marks their 25th anniversary of supplying the industry with an ever-growing product line. IHL is a family owned and operated business that has flourished into a multi-million dollar company. Working as a team, the De Giorgio family’s first priority is to serve the diverse group of contractors that make up the bulk of their client base.

IHL is highly invested in their client’s projects from start to finish. It takes research, planning and persistence to guarantee that clients get the lowest price and the highest level of quality and service within such a volatile market.

To keep abreast with all the changes, IHL has placed a great emphasis on product knowledge. “Increasingly, this business is becoming knowledge based. Building codes, safety and environmental regulations are constantly evolving, which, is in addition to a slew of new and innovative products being introduced by our suppliers. We want to help our staff help our clients navigate the labyrinth of information, making sure our clients make the right decision” notes Domenic, president of IHL. Almost every Friday there is some sort of training going on at IHL.

“I always find it hard to describe IHL, construction store just doesn’t do it justice” states Juliea who works in their marketing department.

“We are unique in the sense that Jack or Jill can walk in and pick up everything they need for the work week, well, everything but lunch!” jokes Joe Martino, VP of Operations. “Be it clothes, boots, safety gear, hand tools, power tools, fasteners, storage equipment, building materials, the list goes on and on. And there’s always someone available to answer questions or just ‘ShopTalk’, you know?”

In honour of the 25th Anniversary, Bosch’s power tool division is hosting a single-day-sale on Tuesday, July 20th. They’ve called it “Bosch Blitz” and they’re excited to invite all tradesmen and women to see what’s new from Bosch and Powers Fasteners. Visit this Tuesday July 20th and see “Bosch Blitz” in action.

For those who don’t know, a single-day-sale is just as it sounds a one day event where tools and accessories are presented well below the market price. “–paired with free goods too!” blurts Amir, the director of marketing. “It’s become a trademark event for IHL. Partnering with suppliers, the day is really our way to appreciate the contractors, giving them the best offering possible. Similar to what Henry Ford said, ‘It is the customer who pays the wages!’ and we need to recognize that”.

For customer convenience, IHL is open from 6 AM to 6 PM Monday to Friday and from 6 AM to 12 PM on Saturdays.

Contact: Investments Hardware Ltd.
127B Aviva Park Drive, Woodbrige, ON L4L 9C1
416-748-0204
www.InvestmentsHardware.com
www.toolioshoptalk.blogspot.com
www.twitter.com/toolio127
www.facebook.com/toolio%20hardware#!/profile.php?id=100001234193874&ref=ts

SafetyTalk: A 200 lbs. Person Hitting a Hard Surface Can Generate Thousands of Pounds of Force

- Gabriele Fusco P.Eng., President Peakworks Inc.

Everyday as we climb into our cars over 90% of us will do up our seatbelts without thinking. Those that don’t fasten their belts roll the dice either because they are invincible or didn’t do well in high school physics. The same scenario plays out everyday on worksites across Ontario. Instead of seatbelts, workers play roulette with their fall protection equipment. On December 24th, four workers plunged to their death in Toronto.

In Ontario, the law dictates that anyone more than 3 metres (10 feet) off the ground must have some sort of fall protection. In most cases, workers wear a harness and are connected to a solid structure with a lanyard. If the worker should fall, the harness and lanyard keep the worker from falling to the ground. In the tragedy on Christmas Eve, it is unclear what safety equipment the workers had.

Our laws go further than just calling for fall protection equipment. Every person that works at height must be trained in fall protection. All fall protection equipment needs to be inspected by a qualified inspector at least once a year. Ministry of Labour inspectors regularly check both industrial and construction sites to ensure that workers are trained and have the proper equipment. Despite the diligence of the Ministry of Labour, it is easy to spot violations. Drive around your neighbourhood and have a look at workers up on roofs. It is an easy bet that you will find one without any fall protection equipment.

Any company that has workers that are exposed to fall hazards must have a fall protection plan. The plan must identify the fall hazards that exist, what equipment will be used to mitigate the risk of the hazard, what personnel are qualified to use the equipment and a rescue plan in the event of a fall. Despite the resources available to help create a fall protection plan, many companies are without one.

Despite the legislation in Ontario that makes supervisors and managers responsible for safety in their facilities and locations, every person must take ownership for their own responsibility. In Ontario employees have the right to refuse work if they deem it to be unsafe.The physics behind falling is eye opening. After falling 10 feet, a person will be travelling almost 30 kilometres per hour. A 200 pound person hitting a hard surface can generate forces in the thousands of pounds. None of us would step in front of a car travelling at 30 kilometres per hour, so why don’t we wear fall protection equipment.

SafetyTalk: A jobsite office is the first indication to the level of safety on the worksite

- Juliea Hollingsworth., Marketing Investments Hardware Ltd.

In a recent interview with Gabe Fusco, president of PeakWorks Inc., we ask, “What does a standard visit to a jobsite entail for PeakWorks and ultimately the prospective clients?”
Gabe explains how PeakWorks initiates the relationship by conducting a complimentary safety Audit Program. Specifying that, “The first impression gives a lot of insight to the culture of the site. When walking through a jobsite the first thing that catches my attention is how the site office is maintained.” What he means by this is, “is there a formal procedure on how to sign in, policies for PPE (meaning hard hat, safety glasses and safety shoes).”
The second thing he looks for is whether or not the employees are following these procedures. He continues, “Once I have reviewed their site office I can gauge how the rest of the site feels towards safety. A poorly maintained site office is usually a sign that things may be overlooked or may have fallen to the way side.”

We inquire, “What do you look for once you are on site?”
Confidently, he states, “Once on site I inspect the guard rails and staircases to see if they pose a fall hazard. Is their adequate protection? Are all open “holes” covered or guarded off? Again, these are signs or indication as to how the site is maintained.”

“So, what does all this mean for fall protection?”
“Sites that neglect these issues often overlook the need for fall protection. The term fall protection does not just refer to the PPE (personal protective equipment) the worker wears; it entails much more than that.” He informs, “It starts with training. Are all those that work at heights competently trained to work at heights? Does the worker know the difference between fall arrest and fall restraint? Can they calculate their fall distance to determine if the equipment they are using will safely arrest their fall?”

“Well Gabe, this is really starting to sound like serious business – a matter of life and death,” we emphasize.
He agrees, “Certainly! Training is not just about knowing how to don a harness or how to inspect the equipment, it involves the ability to understand the hazard and assess which equipment will properly protect the worker.”

“Do you have any sort of checklist to assess their current fall protection program?”
“Yes, once the workers are adequately trained to work at heights, the next thing to complete is a fall protection plan for the site.”

“What does a fall protection plan involve?”
“It is a simple document that describes all the fall hazards and provides a procedure on how to handle each fall hazard. For example: if one of the fall hazards is the unguarded edge of the roof, a fall protection plan must be written to detail; What the hazard is – an unguarded edge of the roof, Can you control the hazard with engineered controls (Y/N)? If no: what PPE is required to protect the workers from this hazard? Do all the workers assigned to this task have the appropriate training? Finally, what is the rescue plan in the event of an accident?”

“Is your list identical to that of a safety inspector?”
Gabe answers, “The above is a very simple fall protection plan to explain some of the issues that need to be addressed during an audit. This is a very similar approach used by other safety inspectors to assess any site safety program in regards to heights.”

Lastly, “What do you usually recommend when conducting safety training?”
“Safety should be a company culture not a necessity. I truly believe that my role when assessing a job site is to ensure that all the workers go home safe that day and every day that follows. When safety is part of the culture of the company, it always results in safer workers and more productivity. Workers should not be ostracized for recommending safer ways to complete a task – instead the company culture should empower workers to freely recommend and make the changes to the tasks they perform daily so they become even safer.” He concludes, “This makes it a win-win situation for both the company and the workers.”

A special thanks to Gabe for bringing us up to date on jobsite safety and inspection. If you have any questions about site audits please feel free to contact us at Investments Hardware Ltd. to arrange a free site assessment by a PeakWorks professional.

Top-Cast® - A Breakthrough in Concrete Surface Retarders

An interview with John Marcone, Dayton Superior

Why is Top-Cast® considered a breakthrough?
It has a low application cost, is easy to apply and looks beautiful.

John, What is Top-Cast®?
Top-Cast is a water-based, top-surface retarder which does not require covering with plastic for protection. It is available in 11 depths of etch, each one color and number coded for safety and convenience.

What is Top-Cast® ideal for?
Top-Cast is Ideal for poured-in-place flatwork and the top surface of pre-cast panels. The wide selection of grades available provides a comprehensive range of effects, from a simulated light acid wash or sand blast finish up to full exposure of 1 1/4 in. (32 mm) aggregate.

How should Top-Cast® be applied?
You should make sure to protect all curbs, borders, adjacent stones, pavers, etc., with a coat of Face Off. Allow coating to dry before placing concrete. Place concrete and float or trowel to finish.

John, what are the advantages of using Top-Cast®?
- Excellent range and control of etch depths
- Heavily pigmented for ease of application
- Excellent coverage rates
- Color and Number coded products
- Solvent-free, odorless
- Requires no plastic covering
- Enhanced appearance and protection when using Dayton Superior’s Ultra Seal 30 EF

SafetyTalk: It Might Just Save a Life

with Gabriele Fusco P.Eng., President Peakworks Inc.

In the development of laws and regulations, there is always a pivotal moment that makes governments, industry and regulating bodies spring to action and formulate a law.

The most influential incident that I can remember in my career that changed the standard was the development of the CSA standard for a “Panic Rope Grab”. The incident took place approximately 12 years ago when a tower climber was climbing a structure during the winter. The worker was wearing a full body harness attached to a rope grab and a vertical lifeline. All the PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) were CSA approved products and the user was certified to work at heights. As he was climbing up the structure at the 112 ft level, he lost his footing. The worker was found at the bottom of the tower with the full body harness and rope grab still connected.

The coroner’s report revealed that the injuries the worker suffered to his hand were consist with a worker grabbing on to something as he was falling in attempt to gain his balance. This phenomenon was known in the fall protection industry as a “panic” grip on the rope grab. The Ministry of Labour (MOL) lobbied the CSA technical committee to have the CSA Standard Z259.2.1 for fall arrester revised to include a design requirement that would ensure that in the event the worker tries the grab onto the eye of the rope grab, that the rope grab would still function and arrest the user’s fall. This single accident changed the way all rope grabs were designed going forward, thus creating the Panic Rope Grab classification. Now all rope grabs in the industry are a safer product stemming from this single accident.

Did You Know? Anyone that is working at heights should be properly trained and have the certificate to prove their competency. Also a fall protection plan is a requirement from the MOL for any work that is to take place at heights, which should include a rescue plan.

Fines: An employee caught at heights without the proper equipment or training is would be subject to a min. fine of $250.00. An employer may be criminally responsible and could serve time for an injury or death due to a fall.

Ask the Experts: Understanding how a fall protection system should be used is sometimes not as simple as it looks. The ABC’s of fall protection are not clear and simple for all applications. Using a Fall Protection expert to analyze and assess your fall protection hazards is a simple way to ensure your workers are properly protected and the system will safely arrest their fall without injury.

PeakWorks also provides training, recertification programs, audit, and productivity gains, decreased down time and a cost-benefit analysis in order to facilitate compliance with law C21.

PeakWorks can help you reduce incidents at your facility and reduce the cost of safety.

So, What’s the deal with Metabo?

Recently, Domenic came to inform us about a new line of power tools we are carrying at IHL. Immediately, we could tell he was thrilled. He explained how a number of contractors have been requesting Metabo, and it was about time we got on board. After some research we learned that Metabo is fairly new to Canada, but has been producing the highest quality products, for professionals, in Nurtingen, Germany since 1924. The culture of Metabo, is to produce high quality products that are safe, reliable and durable that will exceed application demands, and out last competitive products in the most demanding applications. This obsession with quality can be found in the full product range from impact hammer drills to rotary hammers, angle grinders to cordless tools, carbide masonry bits to jigsaw blades. At Metabo, they offer complete contractor solutions to application needs, such as the Multi-fit universal concrete bit system that matches most competitive power tools, old and new, to a complete line of carbide bits, core bits and unique rebar cutter bits, minimizing costs and improving productivity.

Metabo is not found in any big box locations, only through industrial distribution channels offering professional power tools for professionals. The Metabo power tool line stands out from its competitors in many ways. At the heart is the Metabo, high output Marathon Motor. It is extremely resistant to destructive dust, features an optimum motor cooling and armature protection grid, and can out last competitive models up to five times. All efforts are made to efficiently converting input power to useable maximum output power, giving up to 20% more.

Another key advantage for Metabo is their focus on tool safety; in fact Metabo introduced the first angle grinder with safety clutch in 1966. The majority of Metabo angle grinders and hammer drills come with a patented and proven mechanical safety clutch that protects both the end user and tool from the dangerous kickback that can occur when a carbide bit jambs in rebar or grinding wheel binds. Metabo also offers a large selection of grinders with dead man paddle switches that switch off when the operator releases the safety switch. Other innovative safety features can be found with the electronic equipped models such as WE14-150 Q, 6″ angle grinder or UHE28 universal SDS+ rotary hammer drill. These tools have additional standard safety features including current interruption protection, to prevent false starts and advanced anti-vibration mechanisms, such as Metabo’s anti- vibration side handles, to reduce injury related problems such as “White Finger Syndrome” a condition associated with prolonged power tool use. Metabo recently introduced a new level of grinder safety with the new grinder brake models designed to stop a thin cutting wheel in 1 second, when the grinder is switched off.

Metabo is continuously raising the bar in power tool efficiency and safety. Metabo’s success has been rooted in innovation. With the increased regulation of tool use tied to tool vibration in Europe and soon to North America, Metabo is on the leading edge with technology to reduce tool vibration and increase operator productivity. The new autobalance angle grinders, soon to be available in Canada, will revolutionize tool safety in the metal working industries, with the lowest vibration level of any grinder available. The new line of larger SDS Max hammers and chippers, have significant anti vibration dampening systems to combat the ever growing problems associated with power tool use. You can expect Metabo to be an innovation leader ensuring a prosperous future.

Many trades people are not aware of Metabo’s high value offering in terms of longevity, quality, performance, reliability, safety, and increased productivity. With this new found partnership we will offer the trades people higher quality products at a fair price. Professional contractors, demand superior products and service, and grow tired of the push to cheaper, disposable tools. Higher productivity ensures continued success. We believe Metabo will be successful in IHL for the simple fact that Metabo’s professional tool line fits perfectly with the types of applications and customers that IHL services. The more demanding the application, such as drilling in hard concrete or tuck pointing for the restoration trades, the better the fit. There is an attractive display in IHL that is instructional for the end users. The close positioning to the customer order counter will permit those customers with additional questions to be served by the well trained IHL staff. Additional literature, product catalogues and “Why Choose Metabo” brochures will assist the customer in making an informed product decision.

- A special thanks to Metabo representatives, Ian Dick and Alan Reed for their assistance in launching these products.

Peakworks Protection Program (3P)

1. Accountability


2. Quick Response


3. On-Site Product Assessment


4. Customization

The 3P combines the equipment along with the training, inspection, cleaning and maintenance of the equipment into a convenient monthly fee for each worker. Programs are tailored to each client’s situation by evaluating the size of the workforce, employee turnover, the work environment and the unique inspection requirements.
The PeakWorks Protection Program has no upfront cost and offers the most convenience. We take care of all the inspections, repairs and maintenance and deliver compliant products to the job site. The PeakWorks Protection Program provides you with the assurance of your employees’ safety while allowing you to focus on running your business. PeakWorks can protect your employees from height hazards while ensuring the products are 100% in compliance. With 3P, you are not purchasing fall protection equipment, so there are no high start-up costs.

Dare to Compare

Fein MultiMaster – The Ultimate Renovation Tool

Original Technology
The FEIN MultiMaster is a premium tool “Made in Germany” with high quality parts and designed for continuous use. A professional tool that is easily used by anyone, with range of over 90 different accessories covering almost every application.

Compare the FEIN MultiMaster to any other; you can immediately feel and hear the difference. Try the competition and the superior performance of the FEIN MultiMaster becomes obvious. The FEIN MultiMaster is clearly a top-notch product, made to meet the highest standards and priced accordingly.

FEIN is the original, the one the others want to be.

Unlimited applications
Plunge-cut, saw, sand, scrape separate, polish, file; one tool does it all! The MultiMaster is lightweight, vibration-free and comfortable to use in any application. The FEIN MultiMaster’s unique oscillating motion ensures effortless precision with the highest standard of safety.

The extensive range of accessories allows the user to customize the MultiMaster to meet their individual needs.

This tool is designed for everything from simple do-it-yourself projects to sustained use in a variety of professional capacities.

Pros and DIY-ers
Whether a DIY enthusiast or a professional, anyone can benefit from the added value of a tool with universal applications because it saves time and money. The FEIN MultiMaster offers top performance and versatility on virtually any material for a lifetime of jobs.

The Man behind PeakWorks

Founded by Gabriele Fusco, P.Eng., who has worked in the industry for over 12 years. Through his years in the fall protection business Gabriele has seen a gap in the market place between the product suppliers and the service providers. PeakWorks was formed to close that gap and offer customers a complete solution for aerial productivity by offering product solutions with real value-added services such as cleaning, inspection, and compliance services.

Why Clean your Personal Protective Equipment?

Here are four reasons why you should have your PPE cleaned.

1. Inspections are extremely difficult if there is heavy build up of dirt.
   
2. OSHA and other regulatory bodies recommend cleaning PPE on a regular basis.
   
3. Cleaning minimizes the passing of communicable diseases when PPE is shared.
   
4. Cleaning extends the life of equipment thus saving on replacement costs.

Cleaning and inspection of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) are essential services that could prolong the life of your equipment many times over. Cleaning and inspection will ensure that your equipment will be ready if the need arises. PeakWorks offers a hassle-free approach to the cleaning and inspection of your PPE. Our team of experts can clean and inspect your PPE fast and conveniently - usually within a week. Our non-evasive cleaning process does not weaken reflective materials, stitching or seams. The colours of your items will not fade nor will delicate materials such as leather be ruined.

ShopTalk: A Total Safety Package Saves a Lot More than Money

with Domenic De Giorgio, President Investments Hardware Ltd.

Ever wonder what can you do with an old harness/lanyard? As far as I know, you can do one of the following;

1. Condemn it and buy a new one


2. Send it to inspection, get charged for inspection and then buy a new one- Double the trouble!


3. Wait ‘till your site is inspected and get a hefty safety fine - Doesn’t make for a good day at the job! Of course there are worse case scenarios, God forbid, I will not get into those.

But imagine there is a better option which includes a program designed to save you time, money and let you download all your fall protection safety concerns to a single, able, qualified and certified entity- wouldn’t you jump on that immediately?!In the course of a week there are numerous new products that pass my desk; new construction tools, equipments, gadgets of all kinds, new chemicals, mixes, you name it. Hardly do I ever get to hear a company selling me on a service primarily and products secondarily. Peakworks did exactly that. They sold me on not selling more products, but, rather selling you a total concept of“Being Safe at your jobsite Under the Auspices of PeakWorks” and, I liked that greatly. The PeakWorks Protection Program (3P) saves a lot more than money!

ShopTalk: Purchaser 2 Purchaser

with Domenic De Giorgio, President Investments Hardware Ltd.

Being a purchaser myself, I know exactly how volatile times can affect your decisions when it comes to buying. The unstable Canadian dollar, the cost of raw materials, and discouraging news from the global economy concerning a credit crunch, can create some buying uncertainties. Albeit, if I have learnt one thing in the last 25 years, it is the fact that markets are cyclical and you and I, have to go on and make a living during the good as well as the not so good times.

A couple of years ago when the signs of market slowdown started to surface, I implemented a number of changes on how IHL does business. Given where we are in the chain supply, I felt responsible to mitigate the affect of a volatile market by absorbing some of the aftershock created by unsavory new market realities.
Entirely with our customers in mind, we drastically adjusted how we conduct business. Some of the first steps we implemented to make sure the market instability will not jeopardize our customers’ ongoing and future projects were to:

· develop a comprehensive forecast system
· make our purchasing decisions in consultation with our clients
· utilize IHL’s purchasing power to leverage pricing
· define and contract selected vendors who are willing to go the distance with us by relating to and prioritizing our clients demand
· negotiate contracts that are favorable for our customers in terms of cost and time of delivery
· streamline our own processes to lower inventory and administrative costs
· provide better logistical support to customers with advance booking incentives

Here at IHL, we are going to positively use this time to reach out and further assist our customers. I can personally discuss potential issues that may arise and help plan for your particular business needs. This will be extremely useful to younger businesses that have not yet experienced the ups and downs of the industry.
Come visit us at Investments Hardware and we’ll ShopTALK.

A Proud Partnership Built on Cutting Edge R&D, Technical Service & Ongoing Support

“The Euclid Chemical Company philosophy of “demonstratively better” is the foundation upon which Euclid Chemical serves and supports it’s customers. Cutting edge research and development, technical service and support, and educational driven specification effort along with ongoing customer training provides Euclid customers with the best products and support in the industry.”

We are proud of the partnership we have built over the years with IHL, as they have grown to become one of our largest distributors in the country. Their ongoing commitment to finding top quality products for their customers is nodoubt the reason for their unprecedented success, and exactly the kind of distributor we want.

At Euclid, as with IHL, we stand behind everything we sell, and would enjoy the opportunity of doing joint calls with their outside sales people, to discuss your particular job requirements.

It has been very exciting to be part of IHL’s growth, and we at Euclid Canada look forward to continuing to build our businesses together.

- Brett Barnum, Technical Sales Representative, Euclid Canada

IHL Launches New Business Enterprise Software

“I want technology to work for us and for our customers too.”
- Joe Martino, Vice President of Operations

During the past few months, our Information Technology team has been busy. They have taken it upon themselves to move our company into the new and exciting realm of Business Enterprise Software. Joe Martino, our VP of Operations and Steve Zheng, IT Manager, were at the helm of this massive Information and Infrastructure leap.
It could possibly seem like a simple task of exchanging an old inventory system with a modern one; however, when examined closely, it was quite a complex task. It involved integrating all aspects of IHL business processes from financial, to customer service, and human resources into a single IT backbone.

Partnering with TGO, a Toronto IT firm specializing in technology consulting and business process engineering, our team worked diligently for a good part of 2008 to finish the new system deployment. Bravo and congratulations. On May 3rd, 2008 our company was fully utilizing one of the best business Enterprise solutions out there. Not only has our team managed to finish the project successfully and in a timely fashion, they have also worked equally as hard on training the rest of the IHL staff.

In an answer to a question we posted to our boss Joe Martino about the timing for this big transformation IHL is undertaking he said, “We just had to do it. We needed a more robust IT solution to meet the demands of our growing business and our customers growing demands. We require all sorts of information to be readily available to our staff each in their perceptive departments and capacity.”

He added, “From a senior management point of view we needed powerful reporting capabilities and tools to monitor and manage business performance in order to improve productivity. The time limitation of our customers required and deserved a more efficient transaction process.” And that’s exactly what we have done.

We asked Mr. Martino about what this new system implementation should mean to our customers. He answered “I want technology to work for us and for our customers too. We need to execute orders in an expedient fashion, and eliminate undesired office work redundancies. I can certainly use the saved time to follow up with customers and address their work related issues, see how their projects are developing. The good stuff, you know.”

We left it here with our busy boss! Again, we congratulate Mr. Martino, Mr. Zheng and the TGO team.

Stabila Sets Home @ IHL

“It is quite possibly the best display in North America, maybe the world.”

- Mike Fraser, President Stabila North America

Stabila’s life-time guarantee and patented design features are unbeatable in today’s construction industry. Mike Fraser of Stabila was recently interviewed regarding the success of the manufacturer/distributor relationship between Investments Hardware Ltd (IHL) and Stabila.

“Measuring confidence!” was the first reaction when Mike was asked how Stabila products stand out from its competitors. “Stabila has built a name of being the most dependable level manufacturer in the industry.” “Top-quality customer service begins in a German factory and continues through to IHL, who have created a clear and informative display area, highlighting their confidence in Stabila’s product line. It does not take long for a “Stabila Measuring tool” to pay for itself. Without the guaranteed precision of a Stabila level, “one mistake on a measuring application can triple a job’s cost,” explained Mike.

It is obvious that Stabila’s standard of precision is set high, but is it possible to develop newer products that are even more precise? “The answer is ‘Yes,’” Mike assured, “It is possible to make even more precise measuring tools, but the main goal with Stabila is to make dependable products that offer optimal precision that don’t create frustration.” Mike noted that Stabila’s investment at IHL has been “absolutely successful.” He continued, “IHL is consistently meeting and exceeding our expectations as a serious trade partner.” The display area dedicated to Stabila at IHL benefits the customers because “contractors want and need recommendations.” “The display area at IHL benefits Stabila as well by giving the measuring department a real presence. When a distributor shows their support on a product line like they have with Stabila, it shows the contractors have added confidence in the product.” Mike added, “We feel that there is no display to date [that] is like the display at Investments Hardware. It is quite possibly the best display in North America, maybe the world.” Stabila expressed interest in expanding the line of products sold by IHL. Mike said, “There are many areas of growth that are possible with Stabila and IHL. One for example, is Lasers. With proper teamwork, IHL could be the leading distributor of Lasers in Canada.”

Tradespeople will benefit by having a distributor that is highly trained on Lasers, an often misunderstood and, therfore, intimidating category. In the future, a dedicated yet continually evolving hands-on demonstration area could really make an impact on sales and customer product knowledge. Investments Hardware Ltd. would like to thank Stabila for their contributions and ongoing excellence in providing quality products that are proudly promoted to valued customers and business partners.