18 April, 2023
Business of the week: Miller’s Hardware - Mitre 10 Narangba
A multi-generational business that has survived in a world of monopolisation and big business competitiveness has clearly been able to do so by excelling in the customer satisfaction department.
Miller’s Hardware was one of 14 local hardware businesses in the surrounding area when it began trading on its existing “Chooks Corner” Old Gympie Road, Narangba location.
It was 1990 and Ron and Nanette Miller were invited to open up their store in a new development being created by local business legend “Chook” Yourell.
Chook was a well-known local business identity who helped establish the Matilda Fuel Supplies chain, many of which are still in existence today under the Swiss-owned Puma brand.
Chook and Ron were fellow Rotarians, and the opportunity was just what Ron was looking for.
Ron, who had been in the industry for most of his professional life, decided to leave a managing role within BBC Hardware’s state office to open his own business.
The store was less than half the size of what stands today, and the financial restraints at this early time prevented Ron from employing staff.
As a result, Ron and his wife Nanette introduced their sons Jason and Simon into the business immediately after completing their schooling.
Jason, the current proprietor of the family owned business, certainly got to know every facet of the business well, in a hands-on role for over the 30 plus years.
From its creation, the store was positioned in an industrial estate, and support from surrounding businesses has always been strong.
Demand for rural and landscape products was also quite high, and the family has always been quick to fulfil its customers’ needs and with a “we’ve never said no to anything” attitude, Jason confirms “we try to be a one stop shop and do a bit of everything”.
Jason took over the reins from his parents 10 years ago, and in that time the store has developed in both size and product range and today proudly employs 18 local staff members.
It’s testament to the business that some of the staff members have nearly been there as long as Jason.
Tom Admiraal has been a valued member of Millers for almost 30 years, providing sound knowledge and advice as part of the sales team. However Tom is not the only loyal servant at Miller’s Hardware, which gives you an insight into what a quality organisation it must be.
John Prior and Murray Fellows have both been on board for over 25 years. The duo crossed to the successful Narangba Company after leaving similar roles within another local hardware store and both bring enormous experience and knowledge assisting Millers to provide genuine service.
Jason is happy to admit that the operation is only as good as the quality people they employ, and the considered expertise that run each individual department, ensures customers will always be provided with the very best level of service and advice.
It’s also fantastic to acknowledge that this proud family business has become third generational.
Jason’s two daughters Jessica and Georgia keenly work alongside their dad with younger son Jacob, who is still currently at school, lending a hand on occasion.
In addition to the hard working staff, there have been from time to time a few unconventional members join the team that linger in the work place and don’t really pull their weight.
A resident possum, a few glorious water dragons, the odd snake (very rarely) and an overly chatty cockatoo named cocky (of course), enjoy the rural ambience of the place.
Jason is definitely a proud community man. He regularly responds to requests of assistance from many community groups, and believes that his business is here to provide service and support to the community and its residents.
Millers Hardware provide a delivery service to both local customers and those in the greater community, which has seen them deliver as far as Rockhampton to Toowoomba and even to Moreton Island.
They understand the importance in getting products to customers as soon as they can and will do everything in their power to accommodate that.
In closing, Jason extends his warm gratitude to the continued support he has received from his many loyal customers over the years and would relish the opportunity to showcase to new customers, what “good old fashioned service” is still about.
Millers Hardware is open seven days a week, and stock hardware, timber and trade, industrial products (BOC Gas and Gear agent) work wear, steel and alloy profiles, fasteners, turf, landscaping and even hire out machinery and equipment.
Give Millers a try for your next project solutions.
