Reno-Depot Takes a New Direction

BOUCHERVILLE, QUEBEC--(Marketwired - Jan. 21, 2014) -

Editors Note: A photo for this release will be available via Marketwired.

RONA inc. (TSX:RON)(TSX:RON.PR.A), Canada's leading retailer and distributor of hardware, home renovation and gardening products, is proud to unveil the new positioning of its Réno-Dépôt banner and the new store concept for its Saint-Hubert store. This major repositioning is part of RONA's overall recovery strategy.

"The Réno-Dépôt repositioning marks a pivotal point in the RONA relaunch. It makes Réno-Dépôt the market's undisputed leader for delivering the best value and best product selection. We have revised our entire marketing strategy to better meet the needs of our customers, which includes professionals and contractors as well as expert and novice home renovators. We are confident that the concept we have developed will keep our existing customers, draw in those who have gone elsewhere and attract new ones," said the President and Chief Executive Officer of RONA, Robert Sawyer.

The new Réno-Dépôt concept being rolled out at the Saint-Hubert store is an excellent illustration of everything that differentiates the banner. A full line of quality brand-name products has been carefully chosen to meet all of the renovation needs of do-it-yourself consumers and renovation professionals. The procurement policy has also been changed to make sure the right amount of products is always in stock. The in-store shopping experience has been entirely redesigned so that it's easier for customers to find the products they want, in an environment that makes it a pleasure to shop, with more user-friendly signage, more staff on the floor and faster service.

"We have spared no effort in redesigning the Réno-Dépôt branding and marketing strategy. Everything has been thought through and upgraded. We want to create a real difference in the retail industry and offer the customer a memorable experience that is primarily based on outstanding customer service. The way products are now arranged in the store, with easier access, will allow our employees to spend more time advising customers. As mentioned in our opening ad campaign, we are driving down the cost of your home improvement projects and you'd be crazy not to stop by" said Mario St-Louis, Vice President - Operations for Réno-Dépôt.

The Saint-Hubert store is the first of the 16 Réno-Dépôt stores to be remodelled under the new concept. The Réno-Dépôt stores on the Island of Montreal - Marché Central, Anjou, NDG, LaSalle and Pointe-Claire - are next on the list and will be ready by the end of February. By late 2014, all the Réno-Dépôt stores will have been completely transformed in line with the new image for the banner.

About RONA

RONA inc. is a major Canadian retailer and distributor of hardware, building materials and home renovation products. The Corporation operates a network of over 530 corporate, franchise and affiliate stores under several banners and in a number of complementary formats. With its 13 distribution centers and its specialized TruServ Canada wholesaler, RONA serves its network as well as many independent dealers operating under different banners. With some 25,000 employees, the Corporation generates annual consolidated sales of $4.2 billion. For more information, visit rona.ca.