PHOTO: A surprise move that’s left small hardware retailers across New Zealand scrambling. FILE
🧱 Mitre 10 Cuts Supply Ties with Hammer Hardware in Major Retail Shake-Up
In a surprise move that’s left small hardware retailers across New Zealand scrambling, retail giant Mitre 10 has announced it will no longer supply stock to Hammer Hardware stores, despite both brands operating under the same corporate umbrella.
The decision marks a major shift in New Zealand’s DIY and hardware landscape, with over 40 independently owned Hammer Hardware stores now forced to source alternative suppliers—and fast.
🏪 Hammer Hardware Stores in Limbo
Store owners around the country were reportedly instructed not to speak to media, sparking confusion and concern among communities that rely on these smaller, localised shops.
With the loss of a trusted supply line from Mitre 10, many stores now face uncertain futures, particularly those in regional towns where alternatives may be limited.
📣 Official Statement from Mitre 10
In a response to The Post, Mitre 10 Chairperson Andrew Smith confirmed the decision, stating:
“Hammer Hardware and Mitre 10 have had a strong partnership, but it is now time for both to focus on their distinct parts of the market.”
While the statement suggests a strategic separation, some industry insiders believe the move signals a potential restructuring or spin-off, especially with rumours swirling about Four Square-branded hardware offerings entering the space.
🛒 What Does This Mean for Customers?
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🧰 Fewer options for local DIYers, especially in smaller towns
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🔧 Hammer Hardware stores may raise prices or reduce product ranges
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🏡 Community support for local stores becomes more important than ever
Customers may start seeing stock shortages or major brand changes as stores scramble to replace the Mitre 10 supply chain.
📦 The Bigger Picture: Is a Retail Shake-Up Coming?
This move could be part of a larger retail realignment, with Mitre 10 sharpening its focus on larger-format stores and higher-volume operations—potentially leaving smaller operators like Hammer Hardware behind.
There is also speculation that Foodstuffs’ Four Square brand could enter the small-format hardware game, leveraging their extensive footprint across New Zealand.
📎 Summary:
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🔌 Mitre 10 will no longer supply Hammer Hardware
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🏪 40+ stores affected nationwide
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🤐 Store owners told not to speak to media
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🗣️ Mitre 10 says brands will now focus on their own market segments
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🔄 Potential signs of wider restructuring or market entry by Four Square
SOURCE: THE POST