George McCandliss, who plans to keep Scheidt True Value Hardware (7320 Manchester Road) running after owner Bob Scheidt retires, returned recently from a True Value trade show in Chicago.
He ordered some new things and learned about some he’s not ready for yet — like a $75,000 tool rental program that would take up 3,000 square feet.
He did order a dowel display, wrenches with a display, gloves for the spring, ice melt, toilet seats, all-natural insect repellent and extension cords with white and red stripes for Christmas.
He’s in the process of making room for new displays — one will be for DeWalt cordless power tools. He’s also planning a camping display and one for Pinewood Derby racers in November.
See also: Local contractor has plans to buy Scheidt Hardware
Also, “My dream is to set up a Boy Scout display. I’ve got lots of historical Boy Scout collections,” McCandliss said. “A lot of people come in the store just to look around — old hardware store with wood floors. People know that Scouting is over a hundred years old; the store is over a hundred years old. It would be nice to equate those two things.”
He said it’s just difficult in retail space where not to have retail.
“Gotta bring people in the door, right? That’s all we’re looking for — people to come in, get their stuff here,” McCandliss said. “Our prices are the same or less than those other places”
He said everyone comments how nice it is to come in, get what you need and go back out, instead of “taking a hike in those other stores.
“I think we have a lot to offer, especially since we probably spend more time helping people with their problems than selling them stuff,” he said.
All the best!
great news, so glad the store is staying open!
Best of luck to you George. A strong sense of history is a valuable asset.