Fuller’s True Value Hardware in East Palestine gives customers a different experience than the big box stores. “We’re an old-fashioned hardware store,” says Ron Fuller, owner. “You won’t get treated better anywhere else.”
Treating the community right is important to Ron, a lifelong East Palestine resident. The store has been selling hardware in this location for 134 years. Ron has been running the business for the last 36 years, with customers coming in from outside the area for the level of service they receive.
Ron’s wife, Christine, says that Fuller’s Hardware has a “mom and pop” feel, and they’re proud of that. They describe the employees as “loyal, honest and dedicated.” They also just might greet you by name! It harkens back to the old days when everyone did their shopping in town.
“This type of thing has gone by the wayside in many locations,” says Christine. “But it reminds me of when I used to shop as a kid. Coming from a small town, this is what you want.”
All employees can help with advice through their product knowledge and expertise in a wide range of hardware products. In the spring, the store carries flats of vegetables and flowers, hanging baskets and ferns. Christine takes care of these outdoor gardening products, including topsoil, fertilizers and mulch.
And customers come from miles around for the prices on water softener salt.
“We offer the best price in Columbiana County, and they come from all over to buy it,” says Ron. “We sell about a semi-load of it every three weeks.”
Shopping at a locally owned hardware store means that some of your money spent goes back to the community. Ron says Fuller’s True Value tries to support all local school events, sporting events and organizations.
“The community means everything to me. I’m a fourth-generation family in East Palestine,” says Ron. “Family is first, but my store is second. When you come in my store, you’re a friend. That’s how we want to treat you.”