SUMMERSIDE – After 32 years, Pro-Hardware Wholesale is closing its doors. But customers of the business won’t have to do without, as HMS Office Supplies is taking possession of the stock.
In recent years, HMS Office Supplies has been encouraged to branch out by its buying partners.
“When word got out that Pro-Hardware was closing, we considered ways we’d like to see the business go. Then a customer encouraged us saying they thought we could do really great things,” said Pierre Gallant, vice-president of sales at HMS Office Supplies in Summerside.
“We were able to acquire the stock and keep the business going.”
HMS Office Supplies has been owned and operated in Downtown Summerside by Henri and Gloria Gallant for 35 years, and in 2002 their son, Pierre Gallant, joined the team.
“We are excited to take on this new venture and look forward to being able to offer our current customers a new service and introduce ourselves to new customers,” said Gallant.
Wayne Poirier, the owner of Pro-Hardware Wholesale, purchased Pro-Hardware in 1985 and then Dominion Wholesale in 2003. Once located on Water Street, Pro-Hardware moved to Heather Moyse Drive in the HQ building, once renovations began on the Holman Centre. Now he is taking a step back from business and retiring.
“Being a part of the Summerside business community for so many years has been more rewarding than words can describe. We have experienced and seen many changes over the years, but have always enjoyed being part of it. But, now it is time to enjoy another part of life,” said Poirier.
Pro-Hardware Wholesale will officially close on Nov. 25.
Gallant said he hopes to carry on the company’s legacy.
“[Wayne] has given so much to Summerside by having the store for so many years. Hopefully we can continue that.”
The crew at HMS is also hoping the new additions to the business will bring growth as well.
“That’s always a hope. We already distribute quite a bit and hopefully we’ll be able to gain a few customers along with extra product selection.”
It’s going to be a learning experience, he added.
“We’ll need to learn what the customers want in that market. We’re going to have to learn the demand in the wholesale side.
“It will be adding products to the services we already offer. But they will be new to us, and we want to continue to offer that service in the downtown. That was important to us.”
