Central tops in B.C.

One of Enderby's best kept secrets is no longer a secret.

The Building Supply Dealers Association has declared Central Hardware in Enderby to be the best store under 10,000 square feet in all of B.C

Dave Kehler picked up the Orion Award September 9 at the BSDA gala in Langley in front of 375 people.

"Enderby is on the map now. If they didn't know about Enderby, they do now," said Kehler.

B.C. member stores are ranked based evaluations by independent mystery shoppers and the top 20 are recognized at the annual gala. The stores that reach this level show commitment to excellence with staff who work hard to make their store a friendly environment, a pleasant place to shop and one where customers feel valued when they leave.

It was not until the top three stores were announced at the gala that Kehler found out Central Hardware had won and it was a pleasant surprise.

He said the gala even and the preceding trade show were great opportunities to network with others in the building supply industry but winning the award has really put Central Hardware front and centre.

"It's a good way to open communication with others in the industry."

Kehler will stand out in people's minds for another reason, too. He and wife Doris, along with the BSDA directors, were the only ones at the gala who read or paid attention to the night's theme, which encouraged people to dress as gangsters and their molls. He has a dandy picture with the award decked out in a pinstripe suit and jauntily cocked fedora.

The award was front and centre at Central Hardware's customer appreciation day September 16. People enjoyed sandwiches, vegetables, fruit, goodies and cake plus lots of great sales and a chance to win a side of beef, which was won by Ken Case.