when did lowes start
Founded in 1946, Loweâs has grown from a small hardware store to the 2nd largest home improvement retailer. worldwide, the 8th largest retailer in the U.S. and 19th largest in the world. The Loweâs story began in North Carolina when H. Carl Buchan, part owner of the North Wilkesboro Hardware Company, envisioned creating a chain of hardware stores. At the time, Loweâs was a typical, small-town hardware store selling. everything from overalls to wash tubs, work boots and even horse collars.