Home Hardware Named Canada’s Most Trusted Home Retailer

“As a truly Canadian company, we are extremely honoured to be recognized as one of the most trusted brands,” said Kevin Macnab, President and CEO, Home Hardware Stores Limited. “With more than 1,050 stores across the country, our Dealer-Owners are committed to serving their customers and earning their trust. The COVID-19 pandemic has reinforced the important role Home stores play in their communities and their unique ability to respond to the essential needs of Canadians during good times and bad.” 

The GBTI, released annually by the University of Victoria’s Peter B. Gustavson School of Business, surveyed close to 9,000 Canadians on 391 national and global brands and 10 regional brands, in 33 different categories. It is the only study done by an academic institution that investigates consumer trust, the factors that affect it and the brands that succeed at it. 

“As the world climbs out of the pandemic, brand awareness is no longer the currency of business—consumer trust is the priority,” said Dr. Saul Klein, Dean, Gustavson School of Business. “The 2021 GBTI study found that consumers’ trust in brands is linked to authenticity—their belief that the brand reflects their values.” 

Established in 2015, the GBTI champions responsible management within organizations through its findings, highlighting the increased need for 21st century businesses to contribute positively to their communities.

The Gustavson Brand Trust Index (GBTI) is the only study done by an academic institution that investigates consumer trust, the factors that affect it and the brands that succeed at it. Established in 2015, the GBTI champions responsible management within organizations through its findings, highlighting the increased need for 21st century businesses to contribute positively to their communities. As a school, the Gustavson School of Business is uniquely positioned to both evaluate brand values and educate on their importance to consumer trust in today’s society. Comprising top researchers in their fields, the GBTI team measures overall consumer trust in brands and emphasizes the role of brand values in its study of almost 400 brands across Canada. 

Home Hardware Stores Limited is Canada's largest Dealer-owned hardware, lumber, building materials, and furniture home improvement retailer with over 1,050 stores under the Home Hardware, Home Building Centre, Home Hardware Building Centre and Home Furniture banners. Founded in 1964 in rural St. Jacobs, Ontario, Home Hardware remains 100% Canadian owned and operated. Through the Home Hardware network, Dealer-Owners have extensive distribution and marketing capabilities as well as access to thousands of quality, brand name and private label products. Home Hardware Stores Limited has received designation as one of Canada's Best Brands and Best Managed Companies and is committed to helping Canadians with all of their project needs. More information about the company is available at homehardware.ca.