DRILLS IN DADS' FUTURE FOR FATHER'S DAY.

• Position: Ideas for Father's Day presents - Brief Article

A poll of Ace Hardware retailers suggests that power and hand tools may be more ubiquitous than neckties as Father's Day gifts this June. The survey also indicates that hardware stores are fast becoming a popular gift-shopping destination for consumers throughout the year.

When asked to name the top four occasions for gift-buying in their stores, 74% of the hardware retailers cited Father's Day, a strong second to Christmas (named by 95%). Mother's Day ranked third, cited by 46%, and 38% said birthdays were popular for gift purchases at their stores.

"Growing numbers of do-it-your-selfers mean more shoppers are looking for practical gift ideas that people will actually use," notes Paula Erickson, manager of consumer affairs for Ace Hardware Corporation. Thirty-nine percent of the retailers reported increased gift sales over the past...