In the heart of Kilrea, Northern Ireland, family-run business EA Martin and Son emerged back in 1924. Through decades of triumphs and challenges, the business developed from strength to strength into today’s industry-leading hand tools and hardware store.
From a humble hardware store based at rented premises at 31-33 Maghera Street, the Martins expanded their operations in 1927 by acquiring a property across the street, known as The Royal Arcade. The hardware business thrived, becoming a vital part of the local community, renowned for quality and service.
With the outbreak of World War II in 1939, unprecedented challenges impacted the region and in turn the business. The premises at 31-33 Maghera Street were requisitioned by the army and repurposed as a canteen. Despite the difficulties, the Martins persevered, demonstrating their commitment to their customers and the community.
Sam Martin joined his father in the business in 1942, injecting new energy and ideas. 1945 saw the end of the war and the reopening of 31-33 Maghera Street, now a second premises stocking goods and toys, diversifying the family’s retail offerings.
The wholesale element of the business emerged in the mid-1960s, marking a significant milestone in the direction of the company.
Running this new arm of the business from the storage area at the rear of the shop, the company quickly branched out into wholesale distribution with brands such as UHU glue, Topps Furniture Polish, Ship Household Matches, Weissenfel chain, Bar-I-Pac and a selection of other well-known goods. This successful expansion led to the hiring of John Stewart, the first sales representative, who travelled around the local area selling goods directly from the boot of his car.
Significant damage to both sides of Maghera Street, from a car bomb in 1972 and another in 1976, gutted the well-known and established hardware shop. Undeterred, the EA Martin team quickly relocated to premises on Maghera Street, whilst also purchasing land at Drumsaragh, Kilrea, and establishing a new warehouse for the wholesale business.
In 1994, the retail shop in Kilrea was sold to Roy McAllister, an employee of EA Martin and Son. With the focus now on wholesale, James Martin joined the team in 1996, to take the reins after his father Sam suffered a stroke. During this time, EA Martin expanded its local roots and extended its sales into the Republic of Ireland.
Continuous growth in the wholesale business prompted an extension of the warehouse in 2001, ensuring the company’s continuing commitment to meet the needs of its growing clientele. In 2014, Lyle Pyper joined as a business partner, leading to the incorporation of the business into a limited company.
2016 saw EA Martin and Son embrace new technology by installing an ERP system to optimise customer service and lay the ground for web-enabled services, reflecting the company’s adaptability to modern business practices.
A new chapter to the EA Martin and Son story took place in 2023 when they were acquired by The Troy Group. This transition marks the continuation of the legacy built by the Martin family, combining tradition with the resources and capabilities of a larger organisation.
This family-run business has weathered storms, embraced innovation and left an enduring mark on the hardware sector. The story of this hardware and wholesale business is one of resilience, adaptability and a commitment to quality of service that has echoed for a century.
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