About Bytown-Bonhomme
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you ever wonder how smaller, independent hardware stores can survive against the “Big Box” stores? Here are some honest answers.
How can you compete with the big box stores?
Big box stores serve an important role in terms of providing a wide variety of off-the-shelf products – from 2x4s to garbage bags. But despite their size – and the perception that they have everything – they don’t stock it all, and they work on a formula for selling: if it’s on the shelves, it’s available for sale. Specialty orders and products, however, are definitely not their specialty, and neither is the building supplies side of the business. This is one area in which Bytown Lumber excels when compared to the box stores. We specialize in providing a complete line of lumber and building supplies from the foundation to the roof, and we pride ourselves on being able to deliver to customers in a timely manner.
Aren’t your prices higher?
Actually, they are often lower than those of the big box stores. Our company, and many others like us throughout Canada, are members of the Independent Lumber Dealers Cooperative (ILDC). This buying organization represents some of the largest independent retailers in Canada, with combined purchases of over 4.5 Billion dollars. As such, our buying power is at par with – if not better than – many of the big boxes stores. We also generally have lower overheads, as our stores are more compact and user-friendly.
Will I find everything I need at your store?
If you’re looking for building supplies and materials, the answer is yes! We not only carry a huge variety of building products, but we also showcase them in our stores so that you can see and feel is the products you are considering for purchase. Best of all, all of our products are at eye level.
What kind of service can I expect at your store?
At Bytown Lumber, our retail store locations are staffed by building supplies experts who have been with the company for many years. We provide end-to-end services that include Estimating, DIY Building Kits, and a range of Building Services for engineered flooring and roof trusses. We will give you a fast and complete material estimate breakdown for your project and precise material lists, quantities and costing.We’ll also deliver the materials on time and without damage. Our job is to stay on top of your schedules and plan out deliveries well before you need them.
How can you stock so much if your store is smaller?
Our stores are compact to make our building supplies easier to find. Our lumber yards and stocking buildings, however, are often huge. At Bytown Lubmer, we will always have enough staff to help you find what you need. There’s no need to chase it down yourself – all you need to do is ask, and we’ll be at your service.
What makes the Bytown Lumber shopping experience different?
Most of our staff are full-time employees and all of them are subject matter experts in building construction. They can speak from many different perspectives – technology, installation, maintenance and relative costs to name just a few – and can help point you in the right direction so that you can make informed decisions and extract the most value from your purchase.
What about delivery? Are you better than the other guys?
Absolutely! Prompt delivery is one of our greatest assets. We have a fleet of delivery vehicles of all sizes to ensure that you get your order when you need it – as opposed to when a truck is available or heading in your area. Throughout our history, we have supplied the construction trades industry directly, and the only way to do this successfully is by providing immediate service.
What about business hours?
This is an area in which big box stores excel, but it comes at the cost of service. Our staff is mature and dependable, and our hours are geared towards early risers. That said, you can always call in an order and we’ll likely have it for you before you get home that night – which is something the big box stores can’t touch.
