In a world of evolving technology, tightening regulations, and growing customer expectations, one thing remains constant in the hardware industry: the value of skilled, confident staff. That’s where Lantra steps in. As a leading provider of training and qualifications across the land-based and environmental sectors, Lantra helps businesses build capability, improve safety, and increase productivity. And yes, this includes the hardware industry too.
Whether your business sells power tools, PPE, chainsaws, garden machinery, or agricultural supplies, Lantra’s training can help ensure your team understands the products they’re selling and can also provide accurate advice and safe demonstrations. As a result, your customers get better service, your staff work more confidently, and your business gains a stronger reputation.
Who We Are
Lantra is a nationally recognised awarding body with over 50 years’ experience in delivering high-quality training across sectors including agriculture, arboriculture, forestry, landscaping, and construction. We accredit over 1,000 training providers and instructors across Ireland and the UK, offering more than 500 courses and qualifications tailored to industry needs.
While we’re best known for our work in the land-based sector, the hardware and tool trade engages with many of the industries in this sector daily. The products you sell are used by arborists, landscapers, farmers, and construction workers, all of whom rely on the safe, competent use of tools and machinery. That’s why Lantra’s training is a natural fit for your industry.
How Our Training Supports Your Business
Let’s say you’re selling chainsaws or brush cutters – knowing how to operate and maintain these machines safely isn’t just a bonus, it’s essential. Lantra’s chainsaw maintenance and crosscutting course, for example, can be used to train your team, so they understand the product inside out. This enables better customer guidance, fewer returns, and fewer warranty disputes.
Our training also covers areas like lifting and manual handling, first aid, abrasive wheels, working at height, and equipment inspection – skills that benefit not just your customers, but your own team’s daily operations in-store or in the warehouse.
We also offer product specific training in pesticide application, ATVs, and mowers, which are frequently sold by hardware and garden machinery retailers. Training your staff on these types of equipment improves technical knowledge, ensures they are up to date with regulations, and enhances their ability to sell with authority.
Staff Development = Business Growth
In today’s competitive market, investing in staff training is more than a compliance exercise, it’s a smart business move. Trained employees are more engaged, less likely to leave, and more effective in their roles. They upsell better, they build customer trust, they reduce accidents, and they represent your brand with professionalism.
Lantra courses are designed with flexibility in mind. Whether you want on-site group training, remote learning, or accredited qualifications for individual staff members, our training provider network can accommodate your needs. Many of our courses are CPD recognised, allowing staff to maintain and build on their professional credentials.
Boosting Customer Confidence
Customers are more knowledgeable than ever. They come in asking specific questions and expect specific answers. When your staff can confidently discuss the features, safety considerations, and usage techniques of a product, it sets your store apart from the competition. By partnering with Lantra for training, you’re not just investing in compliance, you’re investing in customer service, product knowledge, and longterm brand trust.
Get Started Today
The hardware and building materials trade is vital to many of the industries Lantra serves, and we’re here to help you thrive. Whether you’re a national chain or an independent retailer, we can guide you in understanding the needs of your team, helping you stay ahead.
To learn more about our full range of courses and how they can benefit your business, visit www.lantra.co.uk or contact us directly for tailored advice enquiriesirl@lantra.co.uk.
PAULA SMYTH, Director, All Ireland, Lantra
