Handy Hardware
Owners: Jim and Colleen Bennett
Location: Westville, Okla.
History: “We have the oldest business in town under the same ownership. We opened in the early ‘70s as Otasco Home and Auto and remained with that franchise until 1988 when it combined with Coast-to-Coast Hardware. Because we were unsure how the transition would work, we also joined Ace Hardware and had two franchises. In 2011 we transitioned to Handy Hardware to fit my customers’ diverse needs. Regardless of the name, the customers and most of the employees have stayed the same.”
Products and Services: “A small town hardware needs to have one or two of many and often hard-to-find items rather than maintaining large supplies of stock items. That means our products and services cover a broad range. We have a complete service department for lawnmowers and chainsaws as well as a selection of appliances and hand tools for farmers. We carry both plumbing and electrical supplies as well as fluids and tires for cars and trucks. We also have lawn and garden supplies and interior and exterior paint. In addition we are a factory authorized Eureka dealer and frequently have vacuums sent in from other areas for repair. Our typical customer may come in to fix a water leak or electrical problem and remember he needs a battery for his truck and some welding supplies to weld corner fence posts. This is a nuts and bolts place. Farmers comprise 50 to 75 percent of our business, and we always have a pot of hot coffee ready.”
Story and Photo by Terry Ropp
