Hardware Retailing The Industry's Source for Insights and Information
In the last two weeks, major wildfires in the greater Los Angeles area have killed 27 people and destroyed more than 14,000 structures. Several in the independent home improvement retail community have been directly impacted, including the Orlandini family, owners of the nearly century-old Altadena Hardware, which was completely destroyed in the Eaton fire.
Despite the heartbreak over losing their beloved store, the Orlandini family is committed to supporting their 19 employees and their families and remaining a cornerstone of the Altadena community.
Brothers Rob and Jimmy Orlandini are continuing a family legacy of nearly 50 years in the hardware business.
“We’ve always said that Altadena Hardware is a family, not just a store,” says Rob Orlandini. “In our darkest hour, we’ve been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from our neighbors and friends. It’s a reminder of the strength of this community and why we’re committed to rebuilding—not just for ourselves but for everyone who calls Altadena home.”
The Orlandini family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds that will directly support their 19 employees, covering payroll and helping them navigate this challenging time.
“Our employees are the heart and soul of Altadena Hardware,” says Jimmy Orlandini. “They’ve been there for our customers, day in and day out. Now it’s our turn to be there for them. We’re asking for your support to help ensure their livelihoods and to bring Altadena Hardware back to life.”
Rob and Jimmy Orlandini, both lifelong residents of Altadena, have raised their families in the neighborhood. Their parents, Jim and Paula Orlandini, have been active members of the community for over four decades. Although the Orlandinis’ homes survived the fires, many friends and neighbors lost everything. The Orlandini family says they are determined to rebuild, not just for the business but as a symbol of hope and resilience for the entire community.
Anawalt Lumber, which has five locations in the Los Angeles area, temporarily closed its Malibu and Pacific Palisades stores when the fires first started, with the Pacific Palisades location still temporarily closed.
President and CEO of Anawalt Lumber Rolando Robles says he was sure the Pacific Palisades location had burned down, as Ralph’s Grocery Store, which is only 80 yards away in the same lot, was destroyed.
“By some miracle, we were still standing,” Robles says. “We were lucky to survive the next few days, and as of today, we are still there with minimal damage. We feel lucky we were spared and now wait until the evacuations lift so we can clean up our store and help rebuild our community.”
According to the Anawalt Lumber Facebook page, the stores are bringing in extra stock of emergency supplies and the Malibu location is giving away free hot dogs and burgers to members of the community.
Topanga Lumber & Hardware Co., which has locations in Topanga and Northridge, temporarily closed its Topanga store but reopened with limited hours this week.
The operation posted on its Facebook page, “We hope you and your loved ones are safe. While it has been a challenging time, we are happy to share that we are still standing strong and are committed to continuing to serve you. We wanted to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude for the incredible support you’ve shown us during the recent fires. Your kind messages, thoughtful words and encouragement have meant so much to our team as we navigate through these challenging times. Knowing that our community is standing with us has made all the difference, and it’s a reminder of why we do what we do. Your support during this time means the world to us, and we remain fully committed to delivering the best possible service.”
