The story of Dobbens’ Hardware/C&S Auto Accessories & Rentals began almost 23 years ago when Bernie and Irene Dobben purchased the existing store at 21 Wellington St. N. in Drayton.
The store transitioned into Dobbens’ Country Village Market and a few years later became Dobbens’ True Value Hardware. Bernie and Irene have an extensive background in hardware, having spent a combined 60-some years in the industry. Their previous experience in the retail industry made it an obvious choice for the Dobbens and they haven’t looked back since.
This truly has become a family business; in fact every member of the Dobben family has at some point worked in the store, including daughter Nicole, sons Steve and Corey and eventually their wives Crystal and Gina. Steve and Corey came on board mid-way through their high-school years, working part time for their parents, thus gaining a hands-on training in the retail and business industry. This experience convinced the sons that they too could become business entrepreneurs. A key strength behind the success of the Dobbens’ business is their willingness to diversify and while the big box store boom came shortly after they opened, they rose to the challenge.
The Dobbens’ mission has always been to fill gaps in the retail industry that have been lacking or missing within Mapleton Township. They note many first-time customers are amazed by the selection and a common phrase heard in store is – “I’ve been all over the city looking for this.”
The business expanded into electronics (Radio Shack) and automotive accessories – hence the beginnings of C&S Auto Accessories & Rentals. After a few years U-Haul service was added, however, recognizing that there always seemed to be a shortage of trailers, the decision was made to invest in their own fleet of trailers. 2013 saw the addition of a line of ATVs. A recent renovation/move has allowed all aspects of the business to be housed under one roof. One side is dedicated to hardware/retail and the other side to auto accessories.
Just like their parents, the goal for Steve and Corey is to constantly expand their area of expertise, thus making C&S Auto Accessories & Rentals a one-stop accessory shop. The addition and expansion of the trailer rental division has really enhanced their auto services. Their trailer fleet includes enclosed trailers ranging from a basic 5’ x 10’ up to a 8’ x 20’ size. The fleet features car haulers, dump trailers and even a dedicated motorcycle hauler set-up complete with wheel chocks and tie-downs. On the automotive side, accessories from hood protectors and grill inserts to toolboxes, fuel tanks, truck caps and tonneau covers are available. Interior products such as seat covers, floor liners and window tinting services are available. Expert installations are available for everything from a basic set of mud flaps, tonneau covers to spray-in truck bed liners. Suspension kits with oversized wheels and tires are ready and waiting for installation. Corey and Steve can customize your ride; give them a call.
Aside from offering traditional hardware merchandise such as electrical and plumbing supplies, the store carries an extensive variety of retail items. They feature Para Paints along with a complete line of applicators for all your painting projects. Save the drive to the city! Dobbens also offers house ware items, sporting goods, skate sharpening, lawn and garden supplies, stationary. They feature computer accessories including an assortment of computer ink cartridges, cables and supplies. In search of television services? They offer everything you need to hook up that new TV, including the Bell TV satellite service, off-air antennas and, of course, all the necessary cables. They are also an authorized dealer for Xplornet High-Speed Internet and an authorized Bell Mobility internet and home phone dealer. And what about the tools you need? Yes, they stock both power and hand, along with accessories. They sport a seasonal garden centre and seasonal decorations such as a full Christmas line of lighting. Even their cleaning supplies go above and beyond. Dry-cleaning drop off and pick-up service is available at the store. Toys, giftware, cards … there’s just no reason not to shop local when you consider all the services and supplies offered by Dobbens/C&S Auto Accessories & Rentals.
The Dobbens’ and their staff are proud to offer such a diverse variety of merchandise and services. They are truly grateful for the support this community has shown them.
Dobbens’ Hardware/C&S Auto Accessories & Rentals, located at 21 and 23 Wellington Street North, is open Monday to Friday from 7am to 6pm and Saturdays from 8am to 5pm.
