Ricklin's Celebrates 100 Years in Narberth

How does a family-owned hardware store survive in the age of big box companies like Home Depot and Lowes?

It all comes down to service and knowledgable staff, said Jed Riddell, owner of Ricklin's Hardware in Narberth.

The hardware store, one of Narberth's longest-standing and most-loved businesses, is celebrating its 100th birthday this year. Riddell has been there for 40 of them.

"I've been here for three generations, really," Riddell said. "I've seen families evolve, I've seen the area evolve, and I get to take the long view."

The store was originally owned by the Ricklin family, and Riddell's family bought the store from them in 1960. Riddell's three sons, now grown, all put in their time at the store too.

Competition from national hardware chains has meant a cut in profits for the shop.

"The big box stores—they've diminished our ability to make a good profit," Riddell explained.  "We're surviving, but we're not making money like we used to."

Where they beat the big stores is in the level of knowledgeable service staff is able to offer, he added.

"We do our best to represent courteous service and a solid value. We're not the cheapest store out there and we're not the most expensive—but we do our best to make sure people get served here [the best we can]," Riddell said.

Ricklin's Hardware is located at 203 Haverford Avenue in Narberth.  The store has free parking on Essex Avenue.

Do you shop at Ricklin's? What do you think sets it apart? Tell us in the comments.