W E Boone & Co is Trader of the Week

Established in 1820, W E Boone & Co is a well-known hardware store stocking a vast product range.

It is run by Kim Marchant, a Hamworthy resident who has worked there for 40 years. She said: “I started at the age of 16. I was going to stay a week, but I’ve stayed all this time.”

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Customers can shop for tools, cleaning products, fishing gear, gardening equipment, electricals, clothing, and so much more.

W E Boone & Co Ltd (Image: NQ)

There are also draws towering behind the till, filled with loose screws, nuts and bolts which can be purchased individually.

Kim said: “There’s all sorts of things we do.

“I think people like the fact that they can come in and buy an individual product, like a loose screw.”

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The staff at W E Boone & Co also help shoppers to fix their own items where possible, and often find themselves repairing a dog lead or lampshade for their elderly customers.

As a result, the team have been able to establish strong relationships within the community, with many returning known to them on first name basis.

W E Boone & Co Ltd (Image: NQ)

Kim said: “People also love the personal service- you can either be left alone, or we can offer help and advice.”

Whilst W E Boone & Co’s best seller is typically a kettle descaler or light bulb, Kim found that demand for other products had increased amid the cost-of-living crisis.

She said: “Now, everyone’s wanting candles and fireside products.

“Everyone’s buying hot water bottles, they’re all getting ready for the winter “People are starting to go back to mending things rather just throwing away and buying new. So, they come in for nails and screws and adhesive, those sort of things.”

W E Boone & Co is found in the high street in Poole. It is open from 8.30am-5pm Monday-Saturday.