Westlake Ace Hardware (35th & Peoria): A Shopper’s Perspective
Why You Should Visit
- Exceptional Customer Service: You’ll consistently encounter friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable staff. Many shoppers rave about the positive interactions with employees like Paula, Joe, and Michael, who go above and beyond to assist with queries and repairs. One shopper even mentioned a staff member’s expertise in Stihl appliances. Expect personalized service in departments like grill sales and assembly, with staff such as John and Nate assisting with delivery.
- Wide Product Selection: This location boasts a large inventory across various departments. You’ll find everything from standard hardware supplies (drills, drill bits, pool salt, mulch, propane) to more unique items like pizza dough, houseplants (though availability varies), and smoking pellets. They also carry a significant selection of BBQ grills.
- Convenient Services: The store offers services such as Stihl weed eater repair at an affordable price and mower blade sharpening ($9). While key making is a mixed bag (see below), other services are highlighted as reliable and helpful.
- Improved Layout Since Remodel: Post-remodel, the store is clean, well-organized, and easy to navigate. Finding items is effortless, even those without barcodes.
Why You Might Consider Alternatives
- Inconsistent Inventory: Be aware that stock levels can fluctuate. Several shoppers reported frequent out-of-stock situations for items like dog snacks, pool salt, pinion wood, and freeze-dried chicken. Pricing might also be higher than competitors for some items (like smoking pellets, compared to Atwood’s).
- Inconsistent Staff Expertise: While many employees are praised for their helpfulness and knowledge, some shoppers have experienced unhelpful or inexperienced staff, particularly when seeking assistance with specific items. The key-making service is specifically mentioned as unreliable.
- Loss of “Small Town Feel”: Some long-time customers feel the post-remodel store lacks the previous friendly, personal atmosphere.
