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Towson, Md.-based Black & Decker has introduced the GYRO 4V MAX Lithium-ion Rechargeable Screwdriver (BDCS40G).

The manufacturer describes the new product as “the world’s first motion-activated screwdriver.” It uses gyroscopic technology that allows users to rotate their wrist one-quarter turn to the right for forward or left for reverse.

The variable speed feature and direction change that occurs with a twist of the wrist provide improved control while screwdriving, the company said.

The Chamberlain Group, a specialist and leader in garage-door openers, appointed Robert Markwart to president, LiftMaster, Americas and Gary Scott to president, Chamberlain and HeathCo, Americas.

Channel analysis
Consumer research from The NPD Group shows that after a slight sales dip in the 12 months ended July 2011, the drills category has seen a boost back to levels above those of two years ago. Dollar volume from August to July rose 8.4%, with most dollars overall (61.9%) spent in warehouse home centers.

The makers of a leading exterior moss, mold, mildew and algae stain remover are rolling out a low-maintenance shower cleaner called Wet and Forget Shower.

The product slogan is: “Spray weekly. Scrub never.” And it expands the company's easy-to-use brand messaging. 

Scranton, Pa.-based CPG International Inc. agreed to acquire TimberTech, a subsidiary of the Crane Group and manufacturer of decking, railing and accessory products.

CPG International is the parent company of AZEK Building Products, a leading manufacturer of premium, low-maintenance exterior products that includes decking, railing, porch boards, trim, moldings and recycled composite pavers.

It’s official. The Lumber Association of California and Nevada is now the West Coast Lumber & Building Material Association (WCLBMA).

In an announcement letter, the association’s Executive Director Ken Dunham explained the motive for the name change:

Sales of new single-family houses in July 2012 rose 3.6% over the previous month, with a seasonally adjusted estimate of 372,000, according to the U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

This compares with a July 2011 estimate of 297,000, a jump of 25.3%.

Simpson Pinewood Hardware held its grand opening on Aug. 22 after a soft opening last month, according to an article in The Item. 

Now operated by the third generation of the Simpson family, the Sumter, S.C., store closed in 2011 but has since undergone a remodeling and expansion. It will now carry lawn and garden and lumber.

Civic leaders in Barrington, Ill., 32 miles northwest of Chicago, approved an economic incentive and special use permit sought by an applicant for an Ace Hardware store, according to an article in the Chicago Daily Herald. The agreement allows the hardware store to recoup up to $13,000 per year in municipal sales tax for its first five years. Anything above that would be paid to the village as usual.

Expectations are high that mobile payments represent the future of commerce, and a group of leading retailers this week formed a new organization to offer an alternative way to pay.

The group, Merchant Customer Exchange, will integrate a range of consumer offers, promotions and retail programs available via any smartphone. Participating retailers include Wal-Mart, Lowe's, Sears Holdings Corp. and Target. Additional members are expected to be announced in the coming months.  

Boucherville, Quebec-based RONA, the Canadian hardware retailer and distributor, has unveiled its new website and mobile application.

The new Rona.ca site offers a more user-friendly interface, and helps inform and guide consumers in their renovation or decoration projects based on personal interests. It also allows shoppers to evaluate and comment on some 30,000 products online.