Since 1911, Granite Falls Hardware has been the only tool shop here in town. But now that McDaniels started to build up their walls, it looks like Granite Ace has some competition. Not only for business, but also for popularity and employment. The new business plans on opening this fall so Granite Falls Hardware (who has partnered with Ace) has a chance to catch up, but not much, as newly minted sixteen year olds start applying to McDaniels, who are already hiring.
McDaniels’s Do it Center has had many people singing their praises, including being nationally recognized with the “Do it Best Award – Highest Warehouse Purchases” coming in a very impressive first place. They also have several other awards from various corporations. They are also beloved by communities, being a part of several community organizations, and showing their passion for the various communities around Snohomish County. McDaniels started off small in a family owned business in 1966 before partnering with the Do It Best Corporation in 1992. Personally I think it is both economically and socially great that the town of Granite Falls is getting a new big business. But I also feel as though our old school, good old Mom-n-Pop shop feel of the Granite Falls hardware store has a large place in our hearts.
However many have faith that Granite will pull through; after all they had to rebuild after the infamous fire of 1911, having several dedicated owners since then, and it’s still running. You have to admit that you feel the small town charm when you walk through those creaky wooden aisles while attempting to look for some miscellaneous nut or bolt. The sad part is that wherever you go in Granite, you see Arlington Hardware hats and hoodies, in Granite Falls, because Arlington has become such an iconic brand around here. Arlington doesn’t even have a cat you can see lazing on the checkout counter, and you know there’s not going to be one in the brand true McDaniels. They have to capitalize on that, or they are going to be out of business.
Though McDaniels is beloved in Snohomish, being the centerpoint of the town, we already have our very own Granite Falls Hardware here. Something tells me that the older generations will still stay dedicated to the tried and true Granite Falls Hardware.
