Southern Hardware: An Informed Shopper’s Guide

Why You Should Visit

• Exceptional Customer Service: You’ll consistently encounter friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable staff. Many shoppers praise the staff’s willingness to go above and beyond to assist with needs, offering advice and solutions. One shopper even received excellent DIY project ideas from a staff member. Several reviewers specifically recommend Gary Dale and a long-haired employee named Earl for their expertise.
• Competitive Pricing and Value: While some prices might be slightly higher than big-box stores like Lowe’s or Home Depot, many reviewers emphasize the excellent value and competitive pricing, especially on dog food, pet supplies, and plant starts. The mower repair service, however, seems to be a mixed bag (see below).
• Wide Selection in a Unique Setting: This isn’t your typical big-box store. Expect a charming, old-fashioned hardware store experience with a surprisingly broad selection. You’ll find hardware, home and garden supplies, pet food (including high-grade and grain-free options), pest removal products, straw, laying mash for hens, vaccines and dewormers for pets, and even mopeds. The store also includes a separate mower repair shop in the back.
• Convenient Pet Supplies: Southern Hardware is a great one-stop shop for pet owners. You can find a wide variety of pet food, vaccines (starting at $9.99), dewormers, and accessories.
• Support a Local Business: Southern Hardware is a family-owned and operated business, offering a personal touch often missing in larger chains.

Why You Might Consider Alternatives

• Inconsistent Mower Repair Service: One shopper reported a negative experience with mower repair, paying $50 initially, then facing further delays and potential additional charges ($75 estimated) without a satisfactory resolution.
• Potential for Unpleasant Interactions: While most experiences are positive, one reviewer described a negative encounter with an elderly staff member who provided poor service and was perceived as rude to their family. This was an isolated incident, but it’s something to be aware of.
• Smaller Scale Than Big Box Stores: If you need an extremely wide selection or very specific items, a larger retailer might offer more choices. While Southern Hardware has a surprising variety, its smaller size means stock might be limited in certain areas.
• Slightly Higher Prices on Some Items: Although many shoppers find the value excellent, keep in mind that prices on some items might be marginally higher than those at large chain stores.