Joe’s Hardware: A Shopper’s Guide

Why You Should Visit

• Exceptional Customer Service: You’ll encounter incredibly friendly and helpful staff. They go above and beyond; I even witnessed a staff member offering the use of their own tool to a customer! The owner, Tony, is frequently mentioned for his personal assistance and care.
• Surprisingly Broad Inventory: Don’t let the small-town setting fool you. The store boasts a surprisingly extensive selection of hardware, including a good paint selection. You can find a reasonable supply of items for homeowners and contractors, even some unexpected items.
• Local Support and Convenience: Supporting this local business is a major plus for many shoppers. Its location is very convenient for the community. For those outside Columbus or Marion, it’s a welcome alternative, even if prices are slightly higher.
• Quick and Efficient Service: You can often find what you need quickly and be in and out efficiently. The staff’s expertise helps you locate items with ease.

Why You Might Consider Alternatives

• Limited Hours: Be aware that the store closes at 5 PM, not 6 PM as advertised online. This might be inconvenient for those with later work schedules.
• Product Quality Concerns: I’ve heard reports of some items, such as plastic screws, being of questionable quality and breaking easily. It’s important to carefully inspect your purchases.
• Pricing: While generally reasonable for a small-town store and cheaper than larger chains in surrounding areas, the prices are acknowledged to be a bit higher than in bigger cities.