Virginia Hardware Store Serves Community for 135 Years

Since 1888, Solenberger’s Hardware has been a fixture in the community of Winchester, Virginia.

With personalized customer service, expert advice and community involvement as core values, Solenberger’s has built a history and trust with generations of customers, says Rich Weller, marketing manager of Solenberger’s Hardware.

“At Solenberger’s Hardware, our keys to success are continual change and adaptation to economic times, excellent customer service, adherence to core values and expressing community care,” Weller says. “Our longevity can be attributed to a strong commitment to exceptional customer service, a deep understanding of our community’s needs and a focus on quality products. We have adapted to changing times while maintaining the traditions that made us successful.”

For over 100 years, Solenberger’s has given its customers a broad range of both specialty and everyday products. Specializing in the plumbing, electrical and hardware categories, Solenberger’s also offers sporting goods, canning supplies, locally made products and local author books and book signings. 

“We have special displays for local books and products, showcasing what makes our region special. We listen to our customers and try to stock new items that will appeal to them,” Weller says.

Solenberger’s prides itself on its employee engagement and customer service. The team of 45 employees understands that store processes are secondary to customer engagement, Weller says. 

“Customers are often surprised by how much our employee’s care. A customer shared about one of our plumbing associates giving him his phone number so the customer could text him pictures of his plumbing project and our employee responded with solutions,” Weller says.

Engaging with the local community is and has always been an essential aspect of Solenberger’s service. Solenberger’s owners have served on nonprofit boards and the Top of Virginia Regional Chamber. The store also supports local 4-H and FFA chapters, first responders and veterans’ organizations.

In the next year, Solenberger’s will remodel their store and rebrand to a new name: Solenberger’s Home and Hardware. 

“Over the next five years, we hope to continue our growth while maintaining the personal touch that has made us successful, potentially expanding to new locations and staying ahead of market trends to remain the go-to hardware store for generations to come,” Weller says. “At Solenberger’s Home and Hardware, it’s not about transactions but relationships.”