(Sep. 9) Mooresville, N.C.-based Lowe’s Cos. has announced that Alan Huggins will be promoted to president, Lowe’s Canada, effective immediately.

Huggins, who has more than 25 years of retail experience and most recently served as VP operations for Lowe’s Canada, will replace Don Stallings, who will represent Lowe’s in its new joint venture with Australia’s largest retailer, Woolworths.

Lowe’s opened its first Canadian stores in December 2007 and currently operates 14 stores open in Ontario with two more stores opening later this year.

“Lowe’s steady growth and success in Canada have been the result of strong management and an outstanding team,” said Larry Stone, Lowe’s president and COO. “We appreciate the leadership Don provided as we opened stores in the Greater Toronto Area. We are pleased to maintain that level of experience and leadership under the direction of Alan Huggins as we continue to grow our business in Canada.”

Lowe’s announced its joint venture with Woolworths on Aug. 24, 2009.

Stallings has served as president of Lowe’s Canada operation since August 2007.