PREECEVILLE — Ed Balyski of Preeceville, owner of Preeceville Home Hardware, has a lot to be thankful for over the past 30 years. He began and started growing the business when he took over from his father-in-law, John Stadnick, who operated under the True Value banner for many years prior to Ed taking over in 1994.
It wasn’t until 2008 that he made the big decision to switch to the Home Hardware banner with the grand opening a year later in 2009.
“The decision was not easy for me,” said Ed Balyki, “but, it was a necessary move in order to grow and keep up with the changing times. I had been approached by other companies but Home Hardware offered the best fit for us,” he stated.
He expanded the store through the years with the addition of The Source electronic division. It was added in 2012 and was a good fit for a few years until The Source closed out and the store had to diversify with the opportunity to expand its major appliances section. “We have always had some appliances but due to the lack of room we were unable to carry many appliances,” said Balyski.
The addition of M and M Meats was incorporated into the store in 2020. The addition came at a difficult time with COVID rules and regulations forcing many non-essential businesses to close.
“The move ensured we were providing an essential food service and did not have to close our doors. Over the years it has been well received by the public and continues to play a key role in the store,” he said,
Prior to taking over the store, Ed had 18 years experience in business and has been a long-time dedicated community volunteer. He served for two terms as a Town of Preeceville councillor, was instrumental in starting the Boy Scout movement and served as president and past-president of that club, was a Preeceville Lions Club president, started the stock car racing club and was president of that club, served for two terms on the local school board and coached hockey for more than 10 years in Preeceville Minor Hockey through the many divisions. He has also received many awards for his volunteerism.
The store has 11 employees and is looking forward to the future, offering continued dedicated quality service. “The store will be featuring a major anniversary sale event in the near future,” stated Balyski.
