Fairfax Hardware has been sold to the owner of a nearby store in the same business.
Owner Art Pleasanton announced via Facebook he will retire after more than 40 years at the hardware store at the Fairfax Shopping Center off Concord Pike.
He said the store will be operated by Jeff Ulmer, whose family has owned and operated Action Hardware on Marsh Road.
Both hardware retailers have survived a changing retail environment.
The number of independent hardware stores has declined in northern Delaware, due to the big boxes, retirements, real estate costs and the next generation deciding not to continue in the business.
Media coverage often centered on the demise of independent businesses. However, growth has continued in the industry. Ace, the member-owned hardware wholesaler recently reported strong financial results.
Big box stores are also struggling with issues that include finding employees in a strong economy and the difficulty of finding merchandise.
Consolidation is also common among independents, with many store operators owning multiple locations.
