Small Business Spotlight |
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B&W Hardware
Buddy Willis, Owner
Buddy Willis remembers stopping into B&W Hardware with his father as a small boy to get supplies, enjoy a bottle of Coke and sit with his father’s friends. As owner since 1986, Buddy still welcomes the town with a vast array of home improvement supplies and those very same hospitalities. “The store opened in 1949 and has remained in this location,” says Buddy. “I have lived here all my life and
This has not been easy as a small business trying to keep pace with the big box stores. But, since B&W carries or can order almost anything you need, the appeal is obvious. B&W Hardware sells general hardware, from nuts and bolts, to plumbing, electrical, plants and garden supplies. They also carry radio flyer wagons and many hard to find items, as well as specialty goods.
“You can still get glass cut to order, along with storm window and screen repair. We sharpen tools. Two years ago, we started doing custom closets, which has expanded our customer base to builders as well as home owners. So, as you can see, we offer a wide range of products and services,” explains Buddy.
This is perhaps the reason that B&W continues to meet with such success. Buddy contends that surviving in today’s market as a true small business is one of his biggest successes. He is proud that B&W specializes in good service to customers and having those items that are hard to find.
Indeed, a small Coke in a bottle is hard to find. So if you’re ever nearby historic downtown