John Hogan with his grandsons, Jay and Sonny Taylor.
For two decades, John Hogan has been the steady hand behind Finley Hardware - a cornerstone of the local community and a go-to destination for paints, tools, and every nut and bolt imaginable.
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What began with a stressful first month, when the business software would not work, has evolved into a trusted, family-run business that’s become part of the town’s fabric.
John first leased the shop 20 years ago, running it for 17 years before purchasing the building outright three years ago.
Through it all, the store’s layout has remained largely unchanged.
“It’s good for the customers. They know where everything is and just bring it up to the counter,” he said.
That consistency has helped build a local and loyal customer base.
“The Finley customers are great; very loyal,” John said.
“They’ll hardly buy out of town if they don’t have to.”
Finley Hardware is more than just a business, it’s a family affair.
All of John’s children have worked in the shop over the years, and now the next generation is getting involved.
“I’ve started to teach the grandkids how to count money,” he said.
“One of them said they wanted to work in a shop, so I spent that afternoon counting change.”
While winter tends to slow things down, Mr Hogan said business picks up again in October as the warmer weather rolls in.
After 20 years in the business, he reflected on his time.
“Year to year, business has always been fantastic,” he said.
John Hogan with his grandsons, Jay and Sonny Taylor.
