Valentine True Value store prepares to reopen under new ownership

VALENTINE, Neb. - Even with paper still covering the windows, people have been slipping into Huskerland Hardware and Appliance in Valentine ahead of opening day.

“We’ve brought in a lot of new things,” owner Matt Sandoz said.

Sandoz hopes to officially open the True Value-affiliated store Tuesday or Wednesday of this week. True Value’s bankruptcy last year led to a merger with Do it Best, forming what the companies say is now the world’s largest network of independent home-improvement stores. Sandoz purchased the Valentine location after the previous owners retired.

“It’s something completely different than what we’ve ever done,” Sandoz said.

While he’s new to the hardware business, Sandoz has owned cellular stores across Nebraska since 1999. He said running a hardware store lets him blend work with hobbies.

“I’ve always been a do-it-yourselfer. I’ve built a lot of things, like pergolas, at my house,” he said.

But for Sandoz, the biggest motivation is keeping key services available in his hometown.

“It’s extremely important in Valentine for us to keep these businesses open,” Sandoz said.