Hunt's Hardware
While many small family-owned hardware stores have gone the way of the dinosaur, Hunt’s Hardware of Rochester has thrived. The fourth-generation family-owned store, now in its 111thth year in business, is a recipient of a 2000 Galanis Award for Excellence in Family Business.
Founded in 1880 in Belfast by Isaac Hunt, the store was relocated to Rochester in 1914. Isaac Hunt eventually handed the business over to his son, Harvey K. Hunt, who managed the store until his death in 1968. Ownership was then turned over to Harvey Hunt’s son, William Hunt, who about 10 years ago handed the business over to his sons, Bill and Dave Hunt.
Hunt’s Hardware now has two stores, both in Rochester. The company currently has 17 employees.
While many hardware stores have found it difficult to compete with the large home stores and chain operations, Hunt’s has managed to thrive. Bill Hunt attributes his company’s continued growth and success to competitive pricing and and emphasis being placed on customer service.