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Kroner's Hardware Sold to River Valley Co-op

  //business-finance.news-articles.net/content/202 .. roner-s-hardware-sold-to-river-valley-co-op.html
  Published in Business and Finance on Saturday, February 7th 2026 at 16:42 GMT by News 8000
      Locales: Wisconsin, UNITED STATES

EAU CLAIRE, Wis. - A cornerstone of Eau Claire's commercial landscape has shifted ownership. Kroner's Hardware, a local institution boasting a remarkable 150-year history under continuous family stewardship, has been purchased by River Valley Co-op. The sale, finalized Friday, marks the end of an era for the Kroner family but promises continued service and a preserved spirit for the community.

Founded in 1876 as a humble general store, Kroner's Hardware has evolved alongside Eau Claire, adapting to changing needs and solidifying its position as a trusted provider of tools, supplies, and expertise. The transition is described by Mike Kroner, the current family representative, as a "bittersweet" moment, acknowledging the emotional weight of relinquishing a legacy spanning five generations.

"It's a lot to process, naturally," Kroner explained. "My great-grandparents envisioned something when they first opened the doors, and my grandparents and parents continued to build on that foundation. It wasn't a decision we took lightly. We reached a point where ensuring the long-term viability of the store and continuing its service to Eau Claire required a different approach."

The decision to sell wasn't driven by financial hardship or declining business. Rather, it was a proactive move to guarantee Kroner's Hardware's continued success and community contribution. The family sought an entity that shared their values and commitment to local service. River Valley Co-op emerged as the ideal successor, offering both the resources to modernize and expand offerings, while also pledging to maintain the store's unique character.

River Valley Co-op, already a significant player in the regional agricultural and consumer goods market, sees Kroner's Hardware as a natural extension of their commitment to serving the local community. Paul Johnson, General Manager of River Valley Co-op, expressed his enthusiasm for the acquisition. "We are thrilled to welcome Kroner's Hardware into the Co-op family. It's an honor to build upon such a strong legacy of customer service and community involvement."

Johnson outlined plans to retain the existing Kroner's Hardware staff, recognizing their invaluable knowledge and dedication. "The team at Kroner's are the heart and soul of that store. Their expertise and relationships with customers are irreplaceable. We intend to build upon that foundation, not dismantle it." While immediate changes are not anticipated, River Valley Co-op intends to invest in upgrades to inventory management systems and potentially expand product lines, offering a wider range of both traditional hardware and specialized items.

This sale represents a broader trend observed in many small towns and cities across the nation. As family-owned businesses face increasing competition from national chains and online retailers, many owners are seeking succession plans that prioritize the preservation of their legacy and local impact. River Valley Co-op's acquisition of Kroner's Hardware provides a successful model for such a transition, ensuring that a beloved community asset remains in local hands.

The preservation of local character is paramount for River Valley Co-op. They plan to retain the store's familiar name and aesthetic, acknowledging the strong emotional connection residents have with the Kroner's Hardware brand. Community members have expressed a mix of emotions, with many acknowledging the end of an era but expressing optimism about the future under River Valley Co-op's ownership. Social media has been abuzz with well wishes for the Kroner family and cautious optimism regarding the co-op's plans.

Looking ahead, River Valley Co-op envisions Kroner's Hardware continuing to serve as a vital hub for homeowners, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts in Eau Claire. They plan to leverage the co-op's existing resources and expertise to enhance the customer experience and provide even more value to the community. The acquisition of Kroner's Hardware signifies not just a change in ownership, but a continued commitment to the principles of local service, quality products, and community engagement that have defined Kroner's Hardware for the past 150 years.