It's Family, Supplies and Longevity at Lakewood Hardware & Paint

If there were a supply store people called home, would be the place.

The family-owned establishment has served local customers and commercial businesses since 1948. Over the years, they've built a dependable clientele by priding themselves in quality customer service.

"We hope they say we're willing to help them out," said owner Donn Tyler, whose father originally co-started the business. "We cater to them, so they can succeed."

The family, or Lakewood Hardware & Paint, has 15 employees. The offices are next door to each other, like in a house. At times, a pair of beagles run around.

Lakewood Hardware & Paint presents a home atmosphere.

But how are they able to compete with big-box corporations like and situated around the corner? They've endured bumps and bruises in a tighter economic climate but the longevity speaks for itself.

A couple years ago Tyler said they took a financial hit. But business has picked up and slowly grown this year.

Another way the locally-owned business competes with larger suppliers is their price-matching guarantee. Tyler said they will match any item found in a different store. They can special order items not in inventory.

"You won't find that in many places," he said.

There is an extensive paint department on the west-side of the building. Their 12,000 square-foot floor space includes an acre of land in the backyard with several small buildings crammed with paint, lumber and other tools.

They even sell appliances, but that's not their bread and butter. The shop has maintained an unchanging relationship with local facilities like Greater Lakes Mental Health Care.

It's the first hardware store to set up shop in Lakewood.

Wes Karry, loyal customer for 15 years, said he visits Lakewood Hardware & Paint just about every day. He picks up supplies ranging from plumbing, lumber and tools for his construction job.

"I like the home-town treatment," Karry said. "It's one-on-one. You don't have to track down people to help you."

University Place resident Marshall Scott said they have the best deals and service.

"You can get everything right away," Scott said.

The business started up a Facebook page to promote its business. They are planning an exterior redesign that Tyler hopes will draw more people in.

Click to visit our Patch places to learn more about Lakewood Hardware & Paint.