BLIGHT’S HOME HARDWARE: In the People Business, Selling Hardware Story by Sarah Gordon
photos by Sandra Steier and Carolynne Palla
Jeffrey Ho’s dream was to own a hardware store and in the last 18 years, he fulfilled that goal threefold beginning with Blight’s Home Hardware. Originally from South Africa, Jeffrey arrived in Canada in 1987 where he lived for four years before heading back to Johannesburg to help with his family’s butchery business. Five years later he returned to Canada. He worked briefly as a web developer but lost his job when the company closed. After many months of job searching, he was offered a job at Hewer Home Hardware in Point Grey Village. This is when Jeffrey discovered his passion for retail hardware and his dream to operate his own business was born. He heard through the grapevine that Blight’s Home Hardware might be for sale and contacted Ted Blightt to ask for first consideration. His wish came true—Jeffrey purchased the store in March 2003. 8
Blight's Home Hardware has been part of the community since 1946. Harry Blightt and his father-in-law Jim Pulham were the founders. After Jim passed away, Harry Blightt operated the shop until Ted Blightt joined him; they ran the family business until 2003. The well-loved neighbourhood shop offers a wide selection of products. If something is not carried it can be special ordered. Jeffrey says, “We will go the extra mile for a vacuum bag or a special light bulb.”
“I get excited when I see opportunities.” In 2011, an opportunity arose to purchase Gandy’s Home Hardware on West 4th Avenue. In April 2021, the 75-year-old business was forced to move due to a rent increase; it is now located on West Broadway Avenue near Macdonald Street.
September 1 - November 15, 2021
www.DunbarLife.com
