I’m not sure of all the details. What I do know is that the ACE Hardware store down the road about three miles from our house closed shop last year and built a new facility much farther away. The former building remained empty until True Value decided to open a store there.
I’ve heard that the hardware stores have a personal feud, as they are owned by siblings who want to outdo the other. I can’t verify this, but if it’s true there could be an added factor in the mix. Either way, all I want is to buy water softener salt at a reasonable price, get paint mixed without disappointment, and buy filters for the furnace and the dryer with ease.
The new True Value hardware store opened this morning, and Earl went there to reconnoiter. He introduced himself to the new owners, but beyond that I don’t know what he said. I’ve heard True Value wants to cater to contractors, which seems like a good strategy given our neighborhood is abuzz with residential building. So where does that leave the homeowner? I’m not sure.
The truth is, I’m fickle. I loved the ACE store and was sad to see it depart. I felt sold out. But if True Value has what I want, I may go there instead of visiting the new ACE. I realize that my decision has no bearing on either company’s business plan.
I’m also reminded of the time, about four years ago, that six supermarkets opened within a two mile radius of each other. I wondered if each could survive, and in the end only three did: Martin’s, Harding’s, and Meijer. The others, as they say, are history. We’ll have to wait and watch if fifty percent of the hardware stores will stay intact. I’ll keep you posted.
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