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Medina Hardware

Today the hardware store is owned and operated by Willard's son, Rick Stephenson. Rick Stephenson has tried to keep the store running the same way it has been since his father took over. He still uses the same cash register that his father bought in 1935. Althougth the country is going through technilogical proliferation the only modern technology Medina Hardware has is a calculator. He believes that, to run a good business, the manager must keep the business small, take nobody for granted, and always put service first. With the expansion of North Court Street bringing in new business such as Home Depot, one may believe that this would hurt Medina Hardware. In reality Stephenson says that this has helped his business because shoppers are now looking for a place where they can find help fast and get in and out of the store as quickly as possible. Medina Hardware provides this need with its knowledgeable workers and unique items that other stores may not carry. Stephenson preaches the importance of the difference between value and price. He says that Medina Hardware may not provide the cheapest prices but they will give you the greatest value for your dollar.In 2008 Medina Hardware awarded for the restoration of the 1872 Oatman Building.



(9) Today, Medina Hardware is filled with many incomparable items, which is one of the many reasons why many locals prefer Medina hardware over commercial companies, like Home Depot. What makes the tools and supplies of Medina Hardware so incomparable are that they are often uniquely made and are often specific items that are not sold at other stores. Other reasons why Medina Hardware is preferred are its exceptional customer service and the outstanding value of its merchandise.

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Mr. Stephenson demonstrates for us how the original Medina Hardware cash register works. The usage of the register still today helps maintain a sense of tradition. This is important because the past is slowly slipping away, and the usage of this register helps keep the history in tact. Nowadays, many people have decided to attempt to keep history alive. This is a perfect example. Without things such as this cash register, it would be impossible for generations to come to understand how things were and remember.



(10) The outside of Medina Hardware has been restored in the 1970's to resemble the Victorian-style architecture that it once was when the building first became known as Medina Hardware. The Victorian storefront appeals to many, along with the glass showcase that resides next to the store's entrance. The glass showcase above, is being used to advertise the store's specific sales on May 20, 2011, which were on forms of wrenches and pliers.

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Mr. Stephenson discusses the reason why Medina Hardware has such a strong and loyal group of customers. This fact alone keeps Medina Hardware in business when it has to compete with large corporations such as Home Depot. Medina Hardware is able to keep this group of customers and continues to provide amazing service. While large corporations are changing, growing, and globalizing, Medina Hardware tries to be the "Classic Store" that people seem to like more and more. While everything seems to get bigger, Medina Hardware stays the same, making it easier for everyone.



Here is a 3 Dimensional Model of Medina Hardware today. The Storefront and a Cutaway image of the first floor are available in this model.