True Value in honor of Lyle Heidemann

As Chief Executive Officer of True Value (now retired), Mr. Heidemann led one of the world’s largest retailer-owned hardware cooperatives. As a result of his leadership, he helped revitalize the True Value Company within the hardware business.

During his tenure, Heidemann guided retail growth and expansion through Destination True Value, the co-op’s 21-Century store format; transformed the culture from a wholesale-focused company to a retail-focused company; and delivered consistent dividends to their shareholders. Leading by example, Heidemann inspired True Value retailers, co-op associates, and store employees to “Help Every True Value be the Best Hardware Store in their Town.”

Heidemann began his career in 1967 with Sears, Roebuck and Co., where he gained extensive experience in retail operations, merchandising, brand management, logistics, supply chain, and merchandise systems. During his tenure at Sears, Heidemann had exposure to many different operating units of the company, including hardware, lawn & garden, sporting goods, appliances, electronics, and home fashions, all of which gave him a well-rounded knowledge of the industry.

Heidemann served as Executive Vice President and General Manager of Home and Off-Mall Stores until his retirement in 2003. In that role, he directed some of Sears’ most profitable and successful operating units and brands including Sears Hardware and Orchard Supply Hardware stores, Sears Dealer stores, Sears Auto Centers, and National Tire and Battery stores as well as their commercial sales business and lead national brands such as Craftsman, Kenmore and Die-Hard. He was responsible for more than $20 billion in revenue-generating businesses.

Heidemann holds a bachelor of science degree in marketing from Northern Illinois University and is on the Advisory Council for the College of Business at NIU, and the board of the Woodstream Corporation. He has also served on the True Value Board of Directors, the True Value Foundation Board, and the Circuit City Board. Lyle was born and raised in Grant Park, IL and currently resides in Lake in the Hills, Illinois, with his wife Ann who is also an NIU graduate.