Editor,
This week we were told we will soon lose a small independent lumber yard (Palo Alto Lumber) in Redwood City. I am the third generation owner of a 75-year-old single location independent lumber yard. We have a fourth generation working here now. I have worked here most of my life for 50 years.
Palo Alto Lumber is much like my business in that it is a family-run business. We know our customers’ names and they know us. We are like family to many or our customers. If you have never been to a business like this, the clock is ticking. Once upon a time, the Bay Area was full of small lumber yards like this. But now the number is dwindling due to numerous circumstances. The Great Recession, the advent of big-box stores (Lowe’s and The Home Depot), retirement, etc. are just a few of the reasons these family type lumber yards are going away.
If you have never been to a lumber yard of this type, you are missing out. You cannot buy this kind of experience online. These are businesses which are most likely in your neighborhood, which enables you to buy local. What they give back to your neighborhood as far as community service is priceless.
If these small lumber yards go away (that appears to be the trend), we will be in big trouble. No matter how big Home Depot and Lowe’s are, there are a lot of goods and services they cannot provide. Sponsor your small lumber yard and hardware stores while they still exist.
David Thom
San Carlos
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