17;s deals with approximately 7,000 venders worldwide. Of the merchandise that each location stocks, approximately 50% purchased and distributed from one of Lowe’s regional distribution centers (RDCs) 4which are strategically located throughout the United Sates. There are distribution centers located in North Carolina, Indiana, Georgia, Pennsylvania, and Texas, with the plan to open two new RDCs in 2001 in Perris, California and Findlay, Ohio. There are also 9 support facilities, which are smaller than the RDCs, and are designed to handle and distribute items that need special packaging or shipping. Robert L. Tillman is currently the Chief Executive Officer and President of Lowe’s Companies, Inc. and has held the position since August 1996. Mr. Tillman has a long track record with the involvement of Lowe’s Companies, Inc. He was the Executive Vice President of Merchandising from 1991-1994. From 1994 through July 1996 Mr. Tillman acted as the Senior Vice President and Chief Operation Officer, and in 1998 he became the Chairman of the Board. During Mr. Tillman’s reign Lowe’s has seen vast improvement in all aspects of the company. With the most noticeable changes coming in 1999 with the merger of Eagle Hardware and Garden, through the end of 2001 where the most aggressive expansion plan in the company’s history is taking place. (http://yahoo.marketguide.com) Lowe’s knows its owes a large portion of its success to its employees, and rewards them with a competitive salary, benefits, and room to expand their career. Lowe’s ensures that its employees get on-going training to help them develop their product knowledge, job expertise and people/ communication skills. This is done through the company mentorship programs, which provide on the job skills for both the veteran worker and newcomers alike. This knowledge base sets Lowe’s leaps and bounds ahead of the competition an...
