Downers Grove Brothers Celebrate Grand Reopening of Sears Hardware

Three Downers Grove brothers are celebrating the grand reopening of their new venture, Sears Appliance and Hardware.

The store, located at 925 Ogden Ave., was recently purchased by Mike, Dan and Rick Gilbert—all lifelong residents of Downers Grove.

A celebratory grand opening event will be held Friday and Saturday during regular business owners. 

“I was thrilled that the Gilbert family decided to purchase and operate Sears Hardware Store on Ogden, of which my family has long been customers,” Downers Grove Mayor Martin Tully said. “I think it is a real bonus when ‘shop local’ means supporting both local merchants and local residents. The Gilbert family has contributed much to our community over many years and this investment further deepens their roots in Downers Grove.” 

Dan Gilbert said that he and his two brothers are "advanced-level hobbyist handymen" who have never hired anyone to work on their homes. Learning that Sears was launching a franchise program, Dan said the three of them were excited. 

“I remember thinking, how cool would it be to own a hardware store. We love hardware.”

The timing was perfect as Mike and Rick had recently sold their businesses, and Dan was retired from his career with the Downers Grove Fire Department. Their individual interests and talents are perfectly suited to taking on distinctive roles within the organization.  

Dan references the hardware store on the television hit series "Home Improvement" when talking about what the Sears Appliance and Hardware shopping experience will be like. 

“We want to be like the old-school, old time hardware store where you can come in, chat and have a cup of coffee," he said. "We’ll answer question and help with problems. We want people to try us first, before they chase around trying to find what they need. Our interest is really in solving problems."  

The Gilberts have purchased three additional Sears stores outside of the immediate area, and look forward to the opportunity of expanding their business more in the future. 

“This is a fun adventure. It’s a late-in-life new adventure and we’re having more fun than should be legal," Dan said.

The grand opening celebration in Downers Grove will be held from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Activities will include:

• Q&A sessions and demonstrations by local experts;
• Photo opportunities with a Craftsman stock car;
• A Diveheart information booth;
• Special pricing incentives.