Content about Chicago

May 15, 2013

True Value Co. gross billings slip 0.9% in first quarter

Chicago-based True Value Co. reported first-quarter gross billings of $443.3 million, down 0.9% from the same quarter last year.

A nearly non-existent spring in many parts of the country hurt sales. The company also explained gross billings were affected by a decline in lumber and building material vendor direct-ship sales.

"While winter-related product sales exceeded the prior year, the general lack of spring weather this March versus last year was too much to overcome," said Lyle Heidemann, president ad CEO.

April 24, 2013

USG gets back in the black

USG Corp. hailed its "first quarter of net income in more than five years," as sales increase 4% in the first quarter.

Chicago-based building industry giant USG Corp. reported first-quarter net sales of $814 million, up 4% from first-quarter 2012 net sales of $783 million.

First-quarter 2013 net income was $2 million. This result compares with a $27 million net loss in the first quarter of 2012.

April 22, 2013

Use social media smartly when hiring

There are so many legal pitfalls to avoid when using social media in the candidate sourcing and screening processes, some employers might wonder whether it’s worth all the trouble.

The answer is yes -- if it’s done carefully. Social media can significantly expand the universe of applicants and shed valuable light on job candidates -- when a disciplined approach is used, experts say.

April 11, 2013

True Value points to valuable partners

The Chicago-based co-op has recognized its 2012 Supplier of the Year, among others.

Chicago-based True Value Co. recognized its top suppliers for their commitment and service. Topping the list was Christmas and seasonal decorative light provider Inliten of Glenview, Ill., honored as Partner of the Year.

“We applaud this year’s winners for their outstanding commitment to excellence, as well as their extraordinary contributions and positive financial impact on the co-op and our members’ businesses,” said Lyle Heidemann, True Value president and CEO.

April 5, 2013

True Value posts gains in full year and fourth quarter

CEO Lyle Heidemann describes 2012 as “one of the most profitable years in the company’s history.”

Chicago-based True Value Co. reported “gross billings” of $451.9 million for the fourth quarter, up 2.3% from the same quarter last year.

“Gross billings” -- a term not used in the co-op’s 2012 earnings announcement -- is a measure of the total amount invoiced to customers, without subtracting discounts or adjustments.

The company’s revenue was $340.4 million, up 3.3% from the prior-year quarter.

March 27, 2013

True Value elects new chairman of the board

The Chicago-based co-op tapped Brent Burger, owner of hardware stores in Maine.

Chicago-based True Value Co. tapped Brent Burger, owner of hardware stores in Maine, as chairman of the board.

Burger replaces outgoing chairman Brian Webb, owner of Krueger’s True Value in Neenah, Wis. and Grand Rental Station in Appleton, Wis.

Burger has served on the board since 2007, sitting on the compensation and corporate governance committees. He also serves on the board of the True Value Foundation.

March 19, 2013

Floor and Decor Outlets to open stores in Chicagoland area

Floor and Decor Outlets of America has announced plans to expand its Midwest presence with the openings of two more stores in the Metropolitan Chicago area.