FAIRMOUNT — With all of the dismal economic news swirling around nowadays, it would seem like the worst time to purchase a small business in a small town.

However that is what Bill and Carla High and Bryan and Caroline Darr did. The two couples purchased the former Diel Hardware in Fairmount and began operating it Jan. 2.

They renamed it the Fairmount Hardware and Lumber Company and on Saturday had their grand opening.

Bill High is no stranger to the store; he had worked for Ralph and Marjorie Diel, the previous owners of the store, for 20 years. The Diels had operated the hardware store for 65 years.

Bryan Darr is a farmer and will work in the store when his farming operation will allow him. Caroline Darr has quit her job to work in the store full-time.

Carla High still has another job but hopes someday she can quit her job and work in the store also.

Bill High admits that business is down a little bit right now.

“However, we have a dedicated group of contractors who do business with us and that helps a great deal,” said Bill High.

“We also draw in customers from a 30-mile radius, which includes Sidell, Homer and Oakwood,” Bill High added. “But this town has always been very supportive of this hardware store.”

According to both couples, the name was changed to reflect their commitment to Fairmount.

“This is their store,” said Bryan Darr. “We wouldn’t be open if it wasn’t for the local people supporting us.”

When asked what they can offer over the large national retail chains, Caroline Darr replied, “Customer service.”

“We can’t compete with the large stores on price, but we offer convenience and customer service,” added Caroline Darr. “Good, personal customer service is what we can offer and it creates repeat customers.”

Another area the store specializes in is custom kitchen and bathroom design.

“We can help you design your kitchen or bathroom and then order all the materials and fixtures for you,” said Carla Darr.

The store offers a full line of paints and painting supplies.

“We can mix paint to whatever shade you want,” added Bill High.

The store also carries plumbing and electrical supplies, as well as a wide assortment of hand tools.

The couples say their immediate plans are to just get their feet planted and work on serving their customers.

They did send about 500 survey cards to previous customers to find out what people would like to see carried in the store.

“The most common comment was don’t change the quality of lumber that you carry,” Carla Darr said. “We carry No. 1 grade lumber and we offer free delivery.”

Not only does the store offer a wide array of hardware items it is also a meeting place for several of the locals.

“We have a gentleman who comes in early, makes coffee and puts up the flag,” explained Carla Darr.

“We may expand Saturday hours this spring if there is a need for it,” added Bill High.



BUSINESS HOURS

The Fairmount Hardware and Lumber Co. is open from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7:30 a.m, to noon on Saturdays.