A large storefront at The Waterworks, empty since mid-December, soon will house the area’s only hardware store.
Buddy’s Ace Hardware is scheduled to open the second week of May in the former Staples location.
“We felt this market really needed a good hardware store,” owner Vince Grlovich said. “We want to be your go-to.”
Up to 25 jobs will be created.
Hiring for the first crop of about 15 employees is underway. Anyone interested can apply online or in person at the store.
The former Staples, situated at the end of the outdoor shopping plaza near Ross Dress for Less, is about 14,000 square feet. Grlovich said crews have been working to rehab the interior, and he expects products to start lining the shelves in the next week.
“We’re barreling forward,” he said.
Shoppers can expect a full array of home-good needs, including grills, outdoor power equipment, paint, electrical gear, small appliances and tools.
“We not only will have the product but we want to accommodate people who need help to successfully complete their project,” Grlovich said.
The Fox Chapel area has been without a hardware store for several years. The next closest stores are in Etna and Oakmont.
A native of Washington, Pa., Grlovich had a career as a supplier of power tools to the hardware industry before opening his first store in Moon about three years ago.
“We hope to fill the need here,” he said.
“We take pride in being knowledgeable and attentive — with a smiling face, too.”