Hardware store bows out

Greymouth will be down to a single hardware store by the end of the day as Campbell Renton Hardware closes the doors for the final time.
Owner, Hokitika-based Renton Hardware, announced the closure of its Greymouth outlet in May due to the economic downturn and changes within the retailing market.
For the past seven years it has struggled with inefficiencies with the current set up which involved split locations, with the retail store in Mackay Street and the bulk store in Herbert Street. Attempts three years ago to build a new one-stop store in High Street also failed.
Campbell Renton Hardware opened in 1981.
Manager Mike Coll said all but two staff had found new jobs.
The five people who finished up today have racked up a combined 76 years’ work for the company. The longest serving was David Warnes, who had 23 years’ service, followed by Russell Knipe 22, Mike Coll 11 ½, Dave Hunt 11, and Glenda Douglas two and a half years and Jo Sweetman two.
After the doors shut this afternoon, staff were to toast the closure with “a few drinks,” Mr Coll said.
The building has been on the market for a few months and Trevor Kendrick, of Property Brokers E V Arthur, said there was plenty of interest from prospective tenants.
“I am sure something positive will come of the premises, however no pen has been put to paper as yet.”