A hardware store which has been created from scratch opened its doors for the first time this month.
New to retail, Geoff and Claire Wilcockson turned to Home Hardware for advice and practical help in developing Groundhog Home Hardware in Poringland, south east of Norwich.

Mr Wilcockson is an experienced builder, running Groundhog Property Services, but the couple had long wanted to own a hardware store. So when a vacant site became available, it seemed too good an opportunity to miss.

Mr and Mrs Wilcockson equipped virtually the whole store with stock from Home Hardware and Direct 2U shopfitting suppliers.

Said Mrs Wilcockson: "Being a new business, the benefit of being able to buy in singles is a real advantage to us. We haven't had to tie up lots of cash in stock, which gives us a chance to feel the market and really develop the lines that sell well."

The new business currently comprises the main hardware store, while a trade counter, including tool hire, will follow in a few months. There are also plans to develop some ground at the rear to incorporate a gardening section.

Mr Wilcockson added: "As a tradesman myself, I appreciate the early starts, so to capture the tradesman on their way to work the store opens at 7:30am, as the convenience of buying local rather than driving into Norwich will be appreciated."

At Home Hardware, corporate brand manager Pam Moss said: "We're not just another supplier, and I believe this is why Geoff and Claire chose us. The couple are both new to retail, so our valued support behind the scenes is an added advantage that they have been able to call upon."

The grand opening event spanned three days from Friday, February 6 and included consumer offers and a free raffle.