Gray retailer recognized for service innovation, broad capabilities and commitment to meeting the needs of southern Maine
GRAY — Gray Village Hardware has been selected as Maine’s 2026 Hardware All Star by Hardware + Building Supply Dealer magazine, earning recognition as one of just 50 independent home improvement businesses honored nationwide.
The annual Hardware All Stars program recognizes one outstanding hardware store, lumberyard or home center from each state for excellence in areas including innovation, business performance, customer service and community involvement.
Under owners Jill and Rod Pooler, Gray Village Hardware has grown into a 12,000- square-foot destination built around a simple idea: make it easier for customers to get what they need and get the job done. That philosophy has resulted in an unusually broad combination of products, rentals, and specialized services for homeowners, contractors, agricultural customers and even those planning community and family events.
The store’s extensive rental operation ranges from mini excavators, skid steers and boom lifts to bounce houses, tables and chairs. Rental delivery adds another level of convenience, while culvert delivery supports roadwork, agricultural and construction projects throughout the area.
Gray Village continues to reinvest in the shopping experience as well. A recent store reset introduced The Color Bar paint destination and an expanded Milwaukee tool assortment. Other offerings range from propane filling for small tanks, recreational vehicles and motor homes to livestock feed, farm supplies and seasonal merchandise.
“Being selected to represent Maine is a tremendous honor, especially because it recognizes what our entire team works so hard to do every day,” co-owner Jill Pooler said. “Rod and I have always wanted Gray Village Hardware to be the place our neighbors can turn to, whether they need a piece of equipment, an unusual part, or simply someone willing to help them figure out a solution. We’re incredibly proud of our team and grateful to the customers and communities that continue to support us.”
That service mindset extends to dozens of everyday conveniences. Employees help customers load heavy purchases and assemble grills while also providing specialized services including electronic key fob and transponder key programming, blade sharpening, glass and Plexiglas cutting and watch battery replacement.
The result is a business designed around the varied needs of the communities it serves. At Gray Village Hardware, being a one-stop shop means much more than carrying a broad assortment. It means finding practical ways to make customers’ projects and lives easier.
Gray Village Hardware is member-owner of Do it Best Group, an international home improvement cooperative based in Indiana.
Gray Village Hardware is a locally owned, 12,000-square-foot independent hardware store serving Gray and surrounding communities in southern Maine. Owned by Jill and Rod Pooler, the business combines traditional hardware and home improvement products with an extensive equipment and event rental operation, paint, tools, propane, farm and livestock supplies, and a wide range of specialized services. Built around knowledgeable assistance, convenience, and hands-on problem solving, Gray Village Hardware serves homeowners, contractors, agricultural customers and other members of its community.