West Wendover Hardware Store: A Shopper’s Guide
Why You Should Visit
- Exceptional Customer Service (Especially in Emergencies): The owner and staff have repeatedly gone above and beyond, even opening after hours to help customers with urgent needs related to plumbing issues, trailer repairs, and bicycle malfunctions. This is invaluable in a remote location. Expect personalized assistance and a willingness to help solve problems.
- Convenient Location: Situated conveniently across from Smith’s grocery store, it’s easy to combine a hardware run with grocery shopping.
- Good Selection of Items: You’ll find a wide variety of hardware and household items, including Milwaukee accessories and topsoil. While the selection isn’t vast, they offer a good range of products to serve the community’s needs. The store also regularly receives shipments.
- Special Order Capabilities: Irma, an employee, can order most items you need, even if not in stock, with a typical turnaround of about a week. This is particularly beneficial for a small town with limited resources.
- Reasonable Prices: While prices may not always compete with larger cities like Salt Lake City or Elko, the convenience of avoiding a long drive easily offsets any potential price differences. Prices appear reasonable for a small-town store.
Why You Might Consider Alternatives
- Limited Selection: The store doesn’t have a huge selection, and some shoppers may find it difficult to locate specific items. There is no garden center, despite requests for seasonally available plants.
- Inconsistent Staff Attitude: While many rave about the amazing service, some shoppers have reported encountering grumpy or unhelpful staff, even from the owner. Your experience may vary.
- Potential for Damaged Merchandise: At least one customer reported purchasing a damaged (open-box) space heater. Carefully inspect any items before purchasing.
- Not All Items Available: The store may not always have the exact part or item you need in stock. Be prepared for the possibility that you might need to order something special.
