Beloved Bolton Hardware Store to Close After 51 Years
A beloved hardware store in Bolton is set to close its doors permanently before the end of the year, marking the end of an era for the community. J Maher’s Garden and DIY Hardware, a family-run business established in 1973 by Rita and Jack Maher, will cease trading around December 10th.
The family, consisting of Barrie and Janette, along with their son Jon, shared the news on their Facebook page, citing the "cost of living crisis and ever-increasing costs" as the reason for the closure. They explained that the business is no longer viable.
Challenges Post-COVID
Barrie Maher spoke to The Bolton News about the challenges the business has faced in recent years. He noted a shift in customer behavior following the COVID-19 pandemic, with people increasingly choosing larger brands. Despite setting up a website to expand their reach, they struggled to compete.
"We’ve been here fifty-one years, people know us, and we have a great relationship with all our loyal customers, we know them by name and by sight," Barrie shared. "It’s upset a lot of people — since we announced the closure, the news has spread really quickly."
Janette added, "The shop was a pillar in the community."
Community Mourns the Loss
Customers have taken to social media to express their sadness over the closure.
"So sorry to be reading this sad news, your shop was my go-to shop, from being young to middle aged," one customer wrote. "If we needed anything my nan would say Mahers will have it. Will miss you all."
Another added: "End of an era. Had some good times working in the shop."
A third commented: "So sorry about this, you have been a staple of Lever Edge Lane for decades!! Sadly will be missed."
Remembering a Local Gem
The closure of J Maher’s Garden and DIY Hardware marks the end of a chapter for Bolton. The family’s dedication to serving the community for over five decades has left a lasting impact, and their absence will be felt by many.
Share your memories of J Maher’s in the comments below!