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John Dixon & Bruce Richardson Retire from the Hardware Industry

July 30, 2009

After many years of service to the retail hardware industry John Dixon and Bruce Richardson are retiring from Clarke’s Hardware.  They both will be very missed by all of us here at the store as well as the thousands of customers that have come to rely on their help and knowledge.

John started here over thirteen years ago as the manager of our rental department.  He was instrumental in the set up and development of the rental equipment that we offered.  John later was asked and he accepted the position of store manager.  He lead the company thru tremendous growth and expanded many product offerings at the request of our customers.  A few of the many other activities he supervised were the development of the stores training program, safety counsel, store layout & product presentation.  In his letter of resignation John says “….I will miss the enthusiasm and support of my fellow employee but most of all I will miss our customers that we worked so are to satisfy”   All of us wish John and his family the greatest success with his new adventures.

Bruce was looking for “something” to do when he started with us.  He had worked for the government and a few other private businesses but always desired to get back into the retail hardware business.  Bruce brought knowledge, care, concern, and cheerfulness to our sales team.  Always willing to help out any customer’s request he was constantly straightening the inventory and available to all.  Bruce’s letter stated…”I wish I had found Clarke’s Hardware earlier in my career.  It is a great place to work,  Lots of laughs, fun and team work all focused on satisfying the customer. Now that’s success”  Bruce is moving on to fill his time with family and community volunteer work.  I am sure we will see him often around town.  Go get them, Bruce.  We will miss you.

With the new economy and these great guys leaving we have rebuilt our retail floor team with the leadership Murray Forbes & Kevin Simoni.  Both bring tremendous energy and experience to our team and are looking forward to the challenges of the future.    Change is a wonderful opportunity to do things better.