Back in the day, there were far more national and regional chains in the market.When we talk about home-improvement retail, we're essentially talking about two different companies: Home Depot and Lowe's.Throughout the 20th century, plenty of home-improvement chains sprung up around the US.
But the business proved increasingly competitive and unforgiving over time.Builders Square launched in 1970 and grew quickly from there. Kmart bought the home-improvement retailer in 1984. Builders Square became a major player in the do-it-yourself business, but its downfall began after Kmart arranged a merger with rival Hechinger. When Hechinger filed to liquidate in 1999, all Builders Square stores shut down.