Mt Alexander Timber & Hardware is the go-to when it comes to the hardware needs of Castlemaine and the surrounding areas.
But its roots run deeper than that, as The Tradie discovers the value of grassroots-minded suppliers who put community at the heart of their business.
DOWN ON ROAD
We recently caught up with General Manager Brad Maltby, who has been with Mt Alexander Timber & Hardware for the past two years, to hear how the business has evolved.
Established in 1993, the store originally traded as Beards Hardware, until Mt Alexander Timber & Hardware purchased it in 2017.
“Beards had a longstanding presence in the community, and we knew that we needed to continue to provide great service and products to our customers,” Brad said.
Since the purchase, Mt Alexander Timber & Hardware has extensively renovated the premises, restocked, acquired additional land and vehicles to ensure that they could grow with the demand and needs of their customers.
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The store’s customer base is wide and varied, ranging from experienced trades and DIYers to everyday retail shoppers. With an extensive timber, hardware, plumbing, and nursery range, Mt Alexander Timber & Hardware is a one-stop shop for the community.
Being situated in Campbells Creek, just outside Castlemaine, the store plays a vital role with the next closest alternatives over half an hour away.
“We’re competitive on pricing, and our product range is strong,” Brad explained.
“But our real point of difference is our staff and their deep connection with the community. We employ local people, we’re locally owned, and profits flow straight back into the community. We’re heavily involved in sponsoring sporting clubs, men’s and women’s sheds, schools, and the arts. We genuinely care about our customers and our responsibility to be part of the fabric of the community.”
PART OF THE FAMILY
Mt Alexander Timber & Hardware joined HBT National Buying Group at the time of the purchase and rebrand in 2017. Along with new vibrant signage across the storefront and inside the business, being part of HBT brought fresh opportunities to grow.
The decision to join was simple.
“The freedom HBT offers was the main drawcard” Brad said.
“We still get to choose our own suppliers and negotiate pricing. If we want to support a local supplier, we can. HBT’s philosophy really aligns with our own, they value small businesses and understand the challenges we face in a rural area. But they also provide us with the support and tools we need to thrive.”
Much like Mt Alexander Timber & Hardware, HBT prides itself on empowering locals and building strong supplier relationships. Its model ensures independent stores can remain competitive nationally while still keeping profits in the community.
“The benefit to our customers is clear,” Brad added.
“Through HBT, we’re able to offer competitive pricing and a great range of products while still delivering the personal service that comes from being local and independent.”