Want a real competitive edge that big-box chains can’t copy? Start with a story only your store can tell. We sat down on the floor at the Do It Best Market in Indianapolis with Marketing Director Kerry Hasselbach to unpack how independent hardware and LBM dealers turn authenticity into measurable growth without chasing perfection.

Kerry’s journey from designing handbags to leading co‑op marketing reveals a powerful truth, that industry fluency plus agency-level execution is a force multiplier for small businesses. We walk through how Do It Best’s in-house team acts like a bespoke agency: creative, paid social, display, and reputation management, tailored to each member’s goals. You’ll hear why service-led marketing outperforms product-only pushes, how to translate store life into scroll-stopping posts, and the simple habits that keep your brand top of mind in your neighborhood.

We dig into omnichannel strategy for today’s buyer: organic content meets targeted social, review responses, display placements, and smart email to create demand before customers are ready to swipe a card. Kerry shares practical wins from the new digital marketing solutions platform that centralizes campaigns and reviews into one app, saving time while improving results. We also spotlight Do it Best's CORE, the College of Retail Education, and Market Learning Sessions that turn knowledge into action so teams leave with a plan, not a pamphlet.

If you’re an independent looking to grow foot traffic, strengthen community ties, and build a brand that lasts, this conversation lays out a clear path: be consistent, be unmistakable, and let your customers see the humans behind the counter.

Topics we covered:
• Storytelling as a long-term competitive advantage
• How Do It Best functions as an in-house agency for members
• Managed services across creative, social, display, and reviews
• Why promoting services outperforms product-only posts
• Building an omnichannel plan that matches consumer behavior
• Using analytics to target demographics and share of wallet
• Creating relatable content from everyday store moments
• Progress over perfection for social video and photos
• CORE education and Market sessions to enable teams
• Final advice to lead with authenticity and consistency

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👉 About Stefanie Couch & Grit Blueprint

I'm Stefanie Couch, the founder of Grit Blueprint. I grew up in a third-generation building supply business. I've worked inside dealers, distributors, and manufacturers. I built Grit Blueprint to solve problems I saw in our industry.

Grit Blueprint is a visibility, media, and growth partner for manufacturers, distributors, dealers, service providers, and leaders in the building industry.
We help you get seen, build trust, and become unmistakable.