Best of business at Home Hardware

Home Hardware in Cranbrook has been a busy place with a bevy of awards and owners that love the people they work with

Martin Torgerson (R) and his wife, Dawn, accept an Orion award for Outstanding Business Supply and Hardware Store in B.C. — Photo courtesy Martin Torgerson

Home Hardware in Cranbrook, B.C., must be doing something right. They won platinum in six categories with the Kootenay Business Best of Business awards. Owners Martin and Dawn Torgerson were also proud to have recently won an Orion award for Outstanding Building Supply and Hardware Store in the province. The award, given annually by the Building Supply Industry Association of B.C., is judged by mystery shoppers in 11 different catagories. After a busy week, Martin took the time to talk to Kootenay Business.

What do you like most about your job?

The staff—we've got great staff—and just the interaction with our customers and contractors. 

What is your number 1 passion outside work?

Fishing. I have my own secret little lakes. I love salmon fishing down at the coast too. (Altogether) I get to go out about four or five times a year.

What was your first job?

I actually worked in a building supply store and I worked out in the yard doing deliveries. 

What’s something that people might be surprised to learn about you?

I like live theatre. I enjoy the (Studio) Stage Door  (here in Cranbrook) and when we lived down at the Coast we used to go to the Queen Elizabeth Theatre and watch some of the live plays that came through.

Why did you choose to get into this business?

I got tired of the corporate end of things. We just wanted to go into business on our own as well. 

What advice would you give to someone going into business?

Be prepared to work really hard, seven days a week, even if you're at home.