SUNDRE — The dealer and owner of the local Home Hardware Building Centre was recently named Best Young Retailer in the western region.
Josh Hengen was recognized at the Proud of My Home Achievement Awards and Celebration during Home Hardware’s 2022 Homecoming event on Sept. 23.
“I am honoured to be acknowledged,” the 33-year-old was quoted in a press release issued by the company late last month.
The award is open to any dealer aged 35 or under.
“My initial reaction was one of shock,” he said. “I didn’t think a little hometown store like ours could get noticed on such a large scale.”
Early life lessons developed in him not only a work ethic but also an understanding of how the store operates which paved the way to his position.
“Spending three hours each Saturday when I was 10 years old helping my parents at the store built the foundation that turned me into the business owner I am today,” he said.
“I started at the bottom and worked up through almost every position in the company, which I think gives me unique insight as a dealer and a deep appreciation for all my staff.”
According to Home Hardware Stores Limited’s press release, the award celebrates the next generation of independent home retailers.
“Josh Hengen is one of a select few to be recognized with it,” reads a portion of the statement, going onto add that recipients must among other criteria demonstrate excellence in staff performance and customer service as well as interior presentation including clear signage and tidiness.
Hengen noted that every day his employees come into work, they are always adaptable and passionate about helping to meet their customers’ needs.
The Sundre Home Hardware Building Centre is a family business jointly owned by Josh Hengen and his sister Nicole Weatherbee since 2018 after they took over for their parents Les and Michele Hengen. The siblings are active community members.
Kevin Macnab, Home Hardware Stores Limited president and chief executive officer, extended congratulatory praise to Hengen on behalf of the company, which represents close to 1,100 locations in communities throughout the country.
For his part, Hengen said the award belongs just as much to his staff.
“We have such an amazing group of people,” he said. “Without them, this wouldn’t have been possible.”
Additionally, he extended appreciation to their customers not only for their continuing support but especially their trust.
