LOOK INSIDE: New independent hardware store opens in Leigh-on-Sea

A new independent hardware store has opened in Leigh-on-Sea and has quickly established itself as a go-to destination for home improvement supplies.

Leigh Hardware Store, located at 1080 London Road directly opposite Waitrose, is already drawing in people for its wide range of tools and DIY essentials, with friendly helpful staff.

The shop has been opened by a local man, who has brought in his sister to help run the business – making it a true family effort. Their aim is to create a reliable community store where people can get everything they need for home projects without leaving town.

They told us: “We opened the store because we believed Leigh-on-Sea was missing an all-in-one, old-school hardware shop – the kind of place where you can find everything you need under one roof, with service you can trust.

“We wanted to bring back the kind of friendly, local service where you’re treated like a neighbour, not just a customer. We strove to offer honest advice, quality products, and a warm welcome to everyone who walks through our door.

Product ranges include tools, plumbing, electrical, decorating, gardening, security and key cutting. 

One recent customer praised the store saying: “It’s a handy shop just across the road from Waitrose. Very competitively priced too. I would expect to pay a bit of a premium for the convenience but it was actually very reasonable.”

The store fills a gap for people wanting to shop locally for DIY needs without travelling further afield or relying solely on larger chains. Independent hardware retailers have been declining nationally over the past decade, with many communities left without easy access to such stores.

The owners of the new Leigh Hardware store added: “Whether you’re a local DIYer or a tradesman, you can count on us for the right supplies and practical guidance. We want to be the store you can turn to for everyday jobs as well as those unexpected emergencies, and for the times when you need an extra hand, we also have a trusted handyman on call to help.

“This isn’t just a shop to us – it’s our way of giving back to Leigh-on-Sea. The town means so much to our family. From big projects to the little bits and bobs, we’re here to help every step of the way.”

Leigh-on-Sea itself has built a strong reputation for its independent shopping scene, with a high street lined with unique boutiques, family-run cafés, gift shops and artisan food outlets. The addition of a hardware store strengthens the town’s offering, giving residents more reason to keep their spending local rather than online or at national chains.

This comes at a time when high streets across the UK are under pressure, with many struggling against the convenience of internet shopping and the dominance of large retailers. Local businesses in towns like Leigh-on-Sea play a key role in keeping high streets vibrant and sustainable, while also supporting jobs in the community.

Shoppers can find everything at Leigh Hardware Store from basic fixings and painting supplies to power tools, gardening equipment and home maintenance essentials.

The owner says he wants to create a place where locals can get reliable advice and avoid the hassle of ordering online for simple items.

Leigh Hardware Store is open six days a week from Monday to Saturday.

You can find the store at: 1080 London Road, Leigh-on-Sea, SS9 3NA.

The shop’s central location makes it easily accessible for anyone in Leigh-on-Sea looking to pick up last-minute items or stock up for bigger home projects.