T O P 2 O

ORA WINNER PROFILE
FLE
Brenda and Larry Fullerton (centre), owners of TRU Hardware Breton; with (from left): Mona Caplan and Sam Russo of Schlage, which sponsored the award;
Mark Wilson of Schlage; and Beverly Allen of Hardlines, host of the awards.
TRU HARDWARE BRETON
BEST HARDWARE STORE (ANY SIZE)
In a town with a population of just 580
people, one retailer has managed to grow
substantially since opening in 2010. In fact,
TRU Hardware Breton, owned by Larry
and Brenda Fullerton, in Breton, Alta., has
managed to double sales within its first two
years of business.
But for Larry and Brenda, business isn’t
just about making a profit. It’s about serving
the community and helping residents find
what they need locally. Since opening their
doors, the Fullertons’ mission has been, “To
provide prompt, dependable, and competitive
service for our customers.”
HISTORY
The Fullertons bought an existing auto parts
business in 1995. They had no previous retail
experience, but believed that there was an
opportunity. Importantly, they decided to
change the focus of the auto parts store from
selling to local garages to selling to end users.
The strategy worked and after just three
years they were already looking for a larger
location. But they didn’t stop there: they
bought and renovated the liquor store
down the street and moved their business.
Then, adding another 4,500 square feet in a
renovation, the Fullertons opened the TRU
Hardware in 2010. The wall between the
auto parts and hardware store was opened
up so that customers could shop at both
stores in one trip.
To further diversify their business,
Brenda and Larry added a Husqvarna dealership,
offering small engine repairs. They
even have an Esso Bulk oil lot across the
street. The Fullertons have evolved their
PHOTO: LIZ SZYNKOWSKI
44 THIURD QU A R TER / 2014
Hardlines Home Improvement Quarterly
www.hardlines.ca