*afr weekend mentioned WOW getting into hardware*davo77 also...

*afr weekend mentioned WOW getting into hardware
*davo77 also mentioned - not sure of source?

found three names
Stratco
Thrifty
Home

Stratco are private SA firm.
Historically, roofing supply company, then moved into handyman stores.
National presence now, emerging brand

Thrifty and Home are owned by Danks
National outlets - well known
market cap $50million (or WOW pocket change)

NOTE: attached indicates Danks demonstated interest in hooking up with a big boy.

http://www.insideretailing.com.au/Latest/tabid/53/ID/1011/categoryId/55/Collapse-of-Mitre-10-and-Danks-merger-talks-gives-Wesfarmers-a-reason-to-smile.aspx
also

also,
found Sunshine hardware - Mitre10 already taken

http://www.insideretailing.com.au/Latest/tabid/53/ID/2791/Mitre-10-buys-stake-in-Qld-hardware-retailer.aspx

Questions of anyone who has followed WOW
1. Are they serious about hardware? Would they take on Bunnings and Mitre10?
2. I assume they wouldn't start own brand. Their history says otherwise to me.
3. Are there any other Hardware stores I haven't listed. (I don't think they would go smaller - no point - might as well start own brand)


I come from building - I know Stratco well - family co. maybe interested. But haven't really established name yet.
Danks - not heard of until I sourced behind Home Hardware.

Any thoughts?