Hayward Hardware Store Serves Community for 92 Years

​For 92 years, the Northern Lake Cooperative has been a cornerstone of the community, providing essential supplies, supporting local projects, and offering employment opportunities.

What sets this hardware store apart is its unwavering commitment to customer service, quality products, and community involvement. It has faced challenges from big box stores and changing technology trends.
Looking ahead, Northern Lakes True Value plans to expand, renovate, and continue its legacy of service to the community. Join us as we explore the rich history and promising future of this beloved hardware store.

Key Takeaways:

• The hardware store has been a pillar of the community for 92 years, providing essential supplies, supporting local projects and events, and creating employment opportunities.
• What sets this hardware store apart is their commitment to customer service, offering quality products and services, and actively engaging in community involvement and philanthropy.
• Challenges faced by the hardware store include competition from big box stores and adapting to changing technology and trends, but their future plans include expansion, continued community involvement, and maintaining a legacy of service.

History of the Northern Lakes Cooperative

Northern Lakes Cooperative was formed in 1932 by a group of sixty farmers that was fed up with paying high fuel prices to large petroleum monopolies. Through the 1930’s the cooperative added fuel outlets in surrounding communities, as well as groceries, farm supplies, and a grain elevator.

By the late 1950s, the Northern Lakes Cooperative complex consisted of bulk fuels, grocery, feed mill, hardware, clothing, a gas station and garage, a lunch counter and a credit union. There were 1,700 stockholders and 35 employees.

In 1969, the progressive Co-op Board of Directors and management facilitated construction of the first shopping mall in “Northwoods Wisconsin.” The mall housed the supermarket, a variety store, clothing store, barbershop, beauty salon and the credit union.

The 1970s and 1980s brought the additions of LP gas sales, heating and air conditioning service, liquors, as well as numerous remodeling projects. The pharmacy, the new Cenex convenience store, and a new office/energy center building were added in the 1990s. Also during that time the feed mill and food store underwent major remodeling projects.

Throughout its history, Northern Lakes Cooperative has set the standard for progressive retailing and innovation in the Hayward area.  Through all the changes, its principles have remained the same: Excellent customer service, patron growth, and a commitment to community.

How Has the Hardware Store Served the Community?

Hardware stores like Northern Lakes True Value Hardware have played a vital role in serving the community by providing essential supplies, tools, and services to meet the diverse needs of local residents.

Providing Essential Supplies

Northern Lakes True Value and similar hardware stores have been instrumental in providing essential supplies such as tools, plumbing materials, paint, and garden supplies to meet the daily needs of residents in the area.

These diverse offerings cater to a plethora of projects and maintenance tasks, be it fixing a leaky faucet or embarking on a DIY crafting project. Hardware stores like Northern Lakes True Value are not just about basic tools and nails; they also offer specialized items such as power tools, electrical supplies, and even outdoor equipment for various landscaping projects.

Whether you are a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just looking to tackle a small repair job, these stores play a pivotal role in supplying the necessary items for home improvement and maintenance tasks.

Supporting Local Projects and Events

Hardware stores like Northern Lakes True Value actively support local projects and events by donating supplies, sponsoring initiatives, and engaging in community-building activities to enhance the quality of life in the region.

These community-focused efforts not only demonstrate their dedication to the area but also highlight their commitment to community development and charity work. Whether it's providing materials for a community garden, supporting local school projects, or participating in town clean-up days, Northern Lakes Co-op continually proves their value as a key player in fostering a strong and united community.

Employment Opportunities and Economic Impact

Northern Lakes True Value creates valuable employment opportunities within the community, contributing to the local economy through job creation, revenue generation, and sustained economic growth.
Hardware stores play a crucial role in the economic ecosystem by not only offering products and services but also by being hubs of employment opportunities.

The jobs provided by hardware stores range from sales and customer service roles to managerial positions and technical expertise, catering to a diverse skill set of individuals.

These employment opportunities not only contribute to the financial stability of individuals but also add to the overall prosperity of the community by boosting consumer spending and supporting other local businesses.

What Sets This Hardware Store Apart?

Northern Lakes True Value stands out from the competition due to its unwavering commitment to exceptional customer service, high-quality products, and active involvement in community initiatives that enrich the lives of residents.

Commitment to Customer ServiceNorthern Lakes True Value prides itself on its unwavering commitment to customer service, ensuring that every shopper receives personalized assistance, expert advice, and a memorable shopping experience.

The friendly and knowledgeable staff at the hardware store go above and beyond to assist customers in finding the right tools and materials for their projects. Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a first-time homeowner, the team at True Value Hardware is always ready to provide expert guidance and recommendations to ensure your project goes smoothly.

What sets this hardware store apart is its customer-centric approach; they take the time to understand your needs and preferences, tailoring their recommendations to suit your specific requirements. This personalized attention creates a welcoming atmosphere where customers feel valued and appreciated.

From helping you choose the perfect paint color to offering tips on tackling a home renovation project, the team at Northern Lakes True Value is dedicated to making your shopping experience enjoyable and successful. Their commitment to exceptional service ensures that you leave the store feeling confident and satisfied with your purchase.

Quality Products and Services

Northern Lakes True Value is renowned for offering top-notch products and services, including durable tools, premium hardware, and expert services that cater to the diverse needs of DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors.

With a keen focus on quality, the hardware store goes above and beyond to ensure that customers have access to only the best tools and materials for their projects. The comprehensive range of products available at the store includes everything from high-quality power tools to top-of-the-line building materials. The expert team at Home Hardware Building Centre is always ready to provide guidance and assistance to customers, ensuring that they make the right choices for their specific requirements.

Community Involvement and Philanthropy

Northern Lakes True Value actively engages in community involvement and philanthropic activities, supporting local causes, sponsoring events, and contributing to charitable initiatives that benefit the wider community.

This commitment to giving back to their community is deeply ingrained in the core values of Northern Lakes True Value Whether it's providing supplies for local school projects or participating in fundraising drives for a new community center, the store continually seeks ways to enhance the lives of those in the neighborhood. Through their support for local causes, they have become a pillar of strength for many families facing challenges. Their involvement in sponsoring events not only fosters community spirit but also creates lasting memories for residents. In addition, their generous contributions to charitable initiatives have made a tangible impact on improving the quality of life for the community at large.

Challenges Faced by the Hardware Store

Despite its longstanding presence in the market, the hardware store faces challenges such as intense competition from big box stores like WalMart and L&M Fleet Supply require the need to adapt to rapidly changing technology and consumer trends.

Competition from Big Box StoresThe hardware store faces stiff competition from big box stores like Walmart and L&M Fleet Supply, which offer a wide range of products at competitive prices, posing a challenge to the store's market share and customer base.

One of the key factors driving customers towards big box stores is their ability to offer competitive pricing due to economies of scale and bulk purchasing.

These larger retailers boast an extensive product variety, catering to diverse customer needs all under one roof, creating convenience and one-stop shopping.

In response, hardware stores have been forced to rethink their market strategies, focusing on personalized customer service, niche products, and community engagement to differentiate themselves from the competition.
Adapting to Changing Technology and TrendsIn the era of digital transformation, hardware stores like Ace Hardware must adapt to changing technology trends, such as online platforms, e-commerce solutions, and smart tools, to meet the evolving needs of tech-savvy customers.

Utilizing cutting-edge technology is not merely an option but a necessity for hardware retailers in today's competitive market. Establishing a robust online presence is crucial, allowing customers to explore products, compare prices, and make purchases conveniently from anywhere. Embracing e-commerce capabilities provides a seamless shopping experience, catering to the growing number of online shoppers seeking convenience and efficiency. Integrating smart tools like inventory management systems and IoT devices streamlines operations and enhances customer satisfaction, demonstrating a commitment to staying ahead in the digital age.

Future Plans and Goals for the Hardware Store

Looking ahead, Northern Lakes True Value aims to expand their operations, enhance community involve
ent, and maintain a legacy of exceptional service to continue meeting the evolving needs of customers.

Expansion and Renovations

Northern Lakes True Value is poised for expansion and renovations to cater to a broader customer base, enhance store facilities, and offer innovative services that align with evolving market demands.
With plans to revamp existing locations and open new stores in strategic locations, the company aims to enhance store layouts and decor, introduce state-of-the-art technology for an improved shopping experience, and provide specialized customer services tailored to individual needs.

Northern Lakes True Value is committed to strengthening its online presence through an upgraded e-commerce platform, ensuring seamless integration between physical and digital shopping channels to meet the demands of tech-savvy consumers.

Continued Community Involvement

Northern Lakes True Value remains committed to continued community involvement by supporting local events, sponsoring initiatives, and fostering partnerships that benefit the community and reinforce the store's reputation as a responsible corporate citizen.

This dedication to community engagement has allowed Northern Lakes True Value to be an active participant in various local initiatives and collaborations that aim to enhance the well-being of the community.
Whether it's partnering with local schools for educational programs or sponsoring neighborhood cleanup drives, the store consistently demonstrates its commitment to giving back and making a positive impact.
Through these efforts, Northern Lakes True Value contributes to the local economy but also helps build a stronger, more connected community.
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Maintaining a Legacy of Service

Northern Lakes True Value hardware store strives to maintain a legacy of exceptional service by upholding high standards of customer care, product quality, and community support, ensuring that the store's heritage of service excellence endures for future generations.

In today's fast-paced world, where personalized attention can be scarce, Northern Lakes True Value sets itself apart by putting the customer at the heart of its operations. Each team member embodies the ethos of going the extra mile to assist every customer, consistently delivering a shopping experience that is both efficient and enjoyable.

The commitment to product excellence is evident in the store's meticulous selection process, ensuring that only top-notch items grace its shelves. Whether it's a simple tool or a complex machinery part, customers can rely on the store's expertise to provide the best solutions for their needs.

Beyond commerce, Northern Lakes True Value views itself as a crucial pillar of the community. Through various initiatives and partnerships, the store actively contributes to local causes, reinforcing its role not just as a place of business, but as a trusted ally in the neighborhood's growth and well-being.