I've heard of this being done in other, smaller, hardware stores. For instance, Harvey's Hardware in Needham, MA started off packing its shelves with empty box

I've heard of this being done in other, smaller, hardware stores. For instance, Harvey's Hardware in Needham, MA started off packing its shelves with empty boxes to make the store look like it had more inventory: https://www.inc.com/magazine/19970701/1277.html https://www.inc.com/magazine/19970701/1277.html