(5-10-26) Jeff Kuenning, co-owner of Western Ohio True Value in Minster, Ohio, has been named one of the independent home improvement industry’s 2026 Young Retailer of the Year honorees.
DO IT BEST GROUP CELEBRATES THREE 2026 YOUNG RETAILER OF THE YEAR HONOREES
Jeff Kuenning is part of the third generation of leadership at Western Ohio True Value, a family business that began in 1953 and has grown to four locations. After working his way through the business from the ground up, Jeff has become a key leader in store operations, technology, and category development. His creation of a Milwaukee Destination Center in the Minster location expanded the category from 84 linear feet to 200 linear feet with a 1,066-square-foot showroom. Jeff also leads IT infrastructure across all four stores and supports the company’s ecommerce capabilities, while investing in training that builds capability across his team.
Dan Starr, Do it Best Group CEO
“Taylor, Jeff, and Shannon represent the very best of what’s ahead for independent home improvement retail. Each of them is building on a strong local legacy while bringing fresh thinking, operational discipline, and a deep commitment to serving their teams, customers and communities. We’re proud to celebrate their well-earned recognition.”
The award is given by the North American Hardware and Paint Association, marking 30 years of the Young Retailer of the Year program, which identifies and promotes the next generation of aspiring independent home improvement, paint, and decorating retailers.
The 2026 Young Retailer of the Year honorees will be recognized as part of the Independent Awards Gala in Orlando on July 29.
Mercer County Outlook 