Williams Hardware Celebrates 50 Years!

William's Hardware was started in 1972 by Owen Williams. Owen chose to start his business in Champaign County due to the vibrant economy and close-knit community. The store is now celebrating 50 years in business!

Doug Williams took over his father's business in 2012 and has remained the owner for the past ten years. Doug decided to keep the location of the business because of the community support and the personal and business relationships that have been built over the years. He has stated that he loves Urbana and would never leave the city.

A lot has changed in the past 50 years. Doug Williams commented, "Retail space has gone up, consumers now have multiple choices, and business is more competitive". Changing with the times and keeping an open mind has helped the store continue to thrive. The business has always stayed pliable and open to new ideas.

Champaign County is a wonderful place to start your own business, and Doug had a few pieces of advice for anyone looking to create their own business: "Starting a business is more difficult than it seems, and you need to have a vision and commitment. You need to put in the work and have an open mind". He also mentions that listening to your customers is important to having success.

Lastly, Doug wanted to thank the broader community for the relationships that Williams Hardware has been able to build, and he is thankful for the business. They have had a lot of great customers that they enjoy taking care of. He is proud that this entity has been in Urbana for the past 50 years and he hopes it will continue for 50 more, but they will continue to take things one day at a time.

Williams Hardware is located at 795 Scioto Street in Urbana. Stop in to see their friendly staff and shop their extensive inventory, or visit their website at www.urbanahardware.com. Click here to follow their Facebook page and congratulate them on 50 years in business!