Est.1954, Coulsdon Home Hardware began with founder Geoff Harris. Three generations on, we proudly serve our community as we share our story—from humble beginnings to a trusted, family-run business.
We are proud and excited to invite you on a journey through the rich 70-year history of Coulsdon Home Hardware. Since our founding in 1954 by Geoff Harris, our story has been one of family, community, and unwavering dedication to service. Over the decades, we’ve grown and evolved, but our commitment to our customers and the local area has remained at the heart of everything we do.
Our detailed timeline showcases the key moments, milestones, and cherished memories that have shaped who we are today. From our humble beginnings as a small local shop to becoming a trusted, third-generation family-run business, every chapter reflects the values that have guided us through the years.
We warmly encourage you to explore and immerse yourself in the legacy of Coulsdon Home Hardware. As we celebrate our past and honour those who have been part of our journey, we also look forward with excitement and optimism. Together, let’s continue building a future rooted in community, tradition, and trust.
It All Begins
Geoff Harris started from a humble rented shed out the back of a printer’s sharpening tools. In November 1954 he sold his house to take over the rent on a run-down hardware store at 172 Brighton Road, Coulsdon.
The Shop Next Door
In 1960 Geoff bought the store next door at 170 Brighton Road, Coulsdon to the businesses first expansion
Alan Joins
Alan, Geoff's son joins Coulsdon Hardware helping in the store, learning the ropes.
Our First Fleet of Vans
We purchased our first fleet of vans with Coulsdon Hardware branding, allowing us to become mobile to our growing loyal customers
New Shop Front
To further bring the two stores together a new shop front was made combining as well as renovations to 170 Brighton Road, Coulsdon to bring the two stores together.
Lynn Joins
Lynn (whose parents owned Louise fashions in Caterham) joined the family firm having got engaged to Alan in February & they were married August 31st (on a Wednesday as it was half day closing)
Both Alans dad Geoff and Lynns dad Bert were Rotarians and Alan & Lynn met in Rotaract (Rotarys youth club)
Founder Retires
Coulsdon Hardware Founder Geoff Harris retires leaving Alan his son & wife Lynn as the new full owners.
Queens Window Display
The window display for the Queens silver jubilee created by Lynn.
Something she will make a name for doing.
25th Anniversary
Connie & Geoff, Alan & Lynn celebrate Coulsdon Home Hardware being in business for 25 years.
New Corporate T-shirts
Alan & Lynn show off the new corporate uniforms for Coulsdon Hardware. One of many uniforms to come.
Expansion
Alan & Lynn took over renting 174 Brighton Road (next door) and converted Coulsdon Hardware to increase sales area.
New Premises Acquired
Alan & Lynn purchase 22-24 Chipstead Valley Road from the Burridge family who had run a furniture business from the property for 3 generations.
On the Move
Coulsdon Hardware is moved into the new renovated premises, around the corner from the old shop. This is where we still live today.
40th Anniversary
Coulsdon Hardware celebrate 40th Anniversary
New Corporate Identity
Coulsdon Hardware joined with over 200 other hardware shops all trading under the Home Hardware name.
Coulsdon Home Hardware is born.
50th Anniversary
Another 10 years and Coulsdon Home Hardware celebrate 50yrs in business and in the Coulsdon community.
Bathrooms & Kitchens
Bathrooms & Kitchen’s showroom added to Coulsdon Home Hardware
Further Family Partnership
Store fascia is changed to show the partnership between Coulsdon Home hardware & Signature Homes, run by Lynn & Alan's Son, Simon.
Competition Winners
Coulsdon Home Hardware win Home Hardware's, Christmas window competition.
Lynn Harris was renowned for her wonderful window dressing skills.
Alan & Lynn Retire
After 52 years in the business Alan and his wife Lynn retire, leaving Coulsdon Home Hardware in the capable hands of their eldest son Simon Harris & his wife Sarah.
Becoming the third generation of Harris to own the business.
A Fond Farewell
After seeing his grandson become the third generation Harris to own Coulsdon Home Hardware. Geoff Harris, founder, sadly passed away just before his 96th birthday.
A New Generation
The 4th generation of the ‘Harris Family’ is making her debut at the shop today after 69 years from when Coulsdon Home Hardware first opened its doors!
Home, Hardware and Pets...
After Pets Galore closed its doors, we were delighted to bring many of their popular products into our own growing range. This has allowed us to offer even more great options for our customers and their beloved pets, with a fantastic selection of trusted items now available all in one place.
70th Anniversary Celebrations
Our team celebrated this giant milestone. 70 years of business in Coulsdon supporting the wonderful community.
Coulsdon Home Hardware
22-24 Chipstead Valley Rd
Coulsdon, Surrey, CR5 2RA
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