RONA inc., one of Canada’s leading home improvement retailers operating or servicing some 425 corporate and affiliated stores under different banners, is honoured to accept the Best Large Surface Retailer award (over 65,000 sq. ft.) for the RONA+ Whitby store as part of the Outstanding Retailer Awards (ORA) 2023. Organized by Hardlines, the recent ORA Gala celebrates and recognizes the best in Canada’s home improvement and hardware industries.

Store Manager Paul Santos was present to accept the prestigious award: “Over the years we have focused on operational excellence to deliver world class results. Our dedication to the customer and employee experience goes hand in hand in delivering consistency in the service we provide”, he explains. “Beyond customer satisfaction, what makes me most proud is our team. Their commitment to the business and each other is worth celebrating.”

“It’s all well and good to say that retail is all about customer service, but at RONA+ Whitby, the focus is also on the employees. That’s the aspect that really stood out to the judges. Store manager Paul Santos has shown tremendous leadership in guiding, growing, and inspiring his great team,” says Michael McLarney, president of Hardlines Inc.

Newly converted to the RONA+ banner, the store opened in October 2009 under the Lowe’s banner. Today, the store has over 140 employees, all of whom are committed to delivering the best possible customer experience. The retail and contractor sales floor is 110,000 sq. ft., including a 35,000 sq. ft. garden centre.

• 
•