After serving the Perth community for over four decades, Mount Lawley Hardware, one of the city’s last independent hardware stores, is closing its doors. Owners Lisa and Glenn Stagg have announced that the shop, located on Beaufort Street, is no longer financially viable in the current economic climate.
The decision marks the end of an era for the Staggs, who have run the business for 23 years. Lisa Stagg explained the challenges they faced in maintaining the business.
“It’s just not really viable anymore to be able to maintain the level of stock and everything in the economy, the way it is today,” she told ABC Radio Perth.
Challenges in the Modern Retail Landscape
The closure of Mount Lawley Hardware highlights the broader struggles faced by small, independent retailers in a market increasingly dominated by online shopping and large retail chains. The rise of e-commerce has shifted consumer habits, with many opting for the convenience and often lower prices of online purchases.
While competition from the hardware giant Bunnings has played a role, it was not the primary reason for the closure, according to Ms. Stagg. She noted that the shop had managed to outlast two nearby Bunnings stores, both of which closed in recent years.
However, the influence of Bunnings on suppliers has been significant.
“Suppliers want bulk buys, they want to give more discounts and rebates for the purchase of more stock, you have to order a certain amount of stock before they’ll deliver,” Ms. Stagg explained.
The Bunnings Effect and Changing Demographics
The presence of Bunnings, a retail behemoth known for its extensive range and aggressive marketing, has reshaped consumer expectations. The store’s advertising campaigns have been so effective that people often refer to hardware shopping as “going to Bunnings,” rather than visiting a hardware store.
Adding to the mounting challenges, demographic changes in the area have also impacted business. Younger residents moving into smaller homes or units are less inclined towards DIY projects and gardening, further reducing the demand for traditional hardware supplies.
Community Support and Future Plans
Despite the challenges, the closure announcement has prompted an outpouring of support from loyal customers. Ms. Stagg expressed gratitude for the community’s loyalty and the relationships built over the years.
“Ninety per cent of our customers are regulars, they’ve all come to us loyally and had accounts with us,” she said. “Most of them are horrified [about the closure] which is understandable, they’re sad for us but in reality we’re more sad for them.”
Following the closure, Ms. Stagg plans to transition to another business venture, while her husband has already secured a position in a different hardware store. The couple is also looking forward to having weekends off, a luxury not often afforded to small business owners.
Reflections and Implications
The closure of Mount Lawley Hardware is a poignant reminder of the pressures faced by small businesses in an evolving economic landscape. As consumer habits continue to shift towards online and large-scale retail options, independent stores must adapt or face similar fates.
Looking ahead, the Staggs’ story raises broader questions about the sustainability of small businesses in a market dominated by giants like Bunnings. It also highlights the importance of community support and the unique value that local businesses bring to their neighborhoods.
As Mount Lawley Hardware prepares to close its doors on September 13th, the community is left to reflect on the changing face of retail and the enduring importance of supporting local enterprises.
