LBM Journal

05/22/2026

Two locally owned Do it Best stores are giving their customers a way to support those affected by the recent fire and explosion at Robbins Lumber.

Damariscotta Hardware and Randolph Hardware have implemented a Register Round-Up fundraiser. Customers have the opportunity to round up their purchases at checkout, with donations being matched by store co-owner Rob Gardiner and directed through the Maine Strong Memorial Foundation.

“When something like this happens in Maine, it affects all of us, especially those of us in the independent hardware and lumber community,” said Rob Gardiner.

“Independent hardware stores and lumberyards are more than businesses. They are part of the fabric of their communities,” Gardiner said. “We know many of our customers have been looking for a way to help, and we are grateful for every contribution, large or small.”

The fundraiser gives customers the opportunity to round up their purchases at checkout, with donations being matched by store co-owner Rob Gardiner and directed through the Maine Strong Memorial Foundation to support relief efforts connected to the tragedy.

05/21/2026

Cole Lumber is celebrating 80 years in business.

Through strategic acquisitions and steady growth, Cole Lumber has continued to expand reach while maintaining the local service our customers expect. Their employee ownership drives long-term commitment, accountability, and pride in everything they do.

Cole Lumber offers a full range of building materials, including lumber, trusses, windows, cabinetry, roofing, siding, decking, doors, drywall, flooring, and insulation.

Here's to 80 years!

Originally founded as Cole Lumber and Supply Company, they became 100% employee-owned through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in 1988.

05/20/2026

Who has the best taste in music?

05/19/2026

As a fellow Maine-based company, Hammond Lumber Company announced a $100,000 donation to support the victims and families impacted by the recent fire at Robbins Lumber.

The contribution will be made directly to the Maine Strong Memorial Foundation to help provide financial assistance, resources, and ongoing support to those affected.

Robbins Lumber, a longtime valued supplier partner of Hammond Lumber Company, has deep roots in the state, and this tragedy has been deeply felt across Maine’s lumber industry.

If you or your company wishes to make a donations, go to https://www.mainestrongfoundation.org/emergencyrelief and send the news to [email protected].

05/19/2026

Our hearts go out to the Robbins family and community after several people were injured and firefighter Andrew Cross for the Morrill Volunteer Fire Department was killed in an unexpected explosion and fire at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont, ME on May 15th.

Robbins Lumber shared in a statement that its two owners Jim Robbins and Alden Robbins, along with family member Lily Robbins, are receiving care at Massachusetts General Hospital's world-class burn center.

They ask that anyone wishing to donate direct contributions to their local fire department or to the Shriners in honor of the firefighters and families impacted by this tragedy.

Robbins Lumber has shared that they are committed to rebuilding and moving forward together, and they will not make further comments as they cooperate with investigators conducting a review of the event.

05/18/2026

One firefighter has died and several people were injured following an explosion and fire at Robbins Lumber in Searsmont, ME on May 15. According to reporting from CBS News, officials have not announced a cause for the incident.

Read their statement here:

"Our hearts are with the family of the firefighter who lost his life in service to our community, and with the firefighters who remain hospitalized as they recover from their injuries," the Robbins family said in a statement. "We are profoundly thankful for the courage, professionalism, and sacrific...

05/18/2026

Every year, the LBM industry comes together for LBM Strategies 2026.

This October 14-16, we'll gather in downtown Milwaukee, WI at the iconic Pfister Hotel for three days of networking, operational insights, leadership discussions, and real-world learning.

From a tour of Bliffert and peer discussions to networking and fresh ideas, this event is all about learning from each other and building stronger businesses together.

We’re looking forward to it. Will we see you there?

(From now until May 30th, get $250 off your registration at lbmstrategies.com)

05/15/2026

We start 'em young at LBM Journal!

05/14/2026

David and Leah from Ambridge Do It Best Home Center are the latest guest on LBM Talks Social Media!

Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/A4pC4mvPHfg

05/12/2026

From whiskey barrel staves in 1921 to a growing “whole house” building supply business today, Orgain Building Supply has spent more than a century evolving alongside Middle Tennessee.

We spoke with the Clarksville, Tennessee-based dealer to learn how the company is expanding its reach while staying rooted in the culture and customer relationships that helped build its reputation over the last 100 years.

Today, Orgain offers everything from lumber and hardware to custom doors, cabinets, flooring, countertops, and more—all while investing in technology, employee development, and future growth opportunities.

As General Manager Chuck Mailloux told us: “We don’t sell building materials… what we’re selling is our service.”

Read the full article in the May issue of LBM Journal or on our website.

05/07/2026

Once again, Arnold Lumber had been named one of the Best Places to Work in Rhode Island by Providence Business News for 2026, marking their second year in a row receiving this title.

"We’re proud to be a place where people feel supported, valued, and empowered to grow; both personally and professionally."

Strong culture is hard to build, but one of greatest things a business can achieve.

The company received the recognition from Providence Business News for the second year in a row.