Our History
"Good neighbour, good advice" - Since 1932
1932 to Present
A lot has changed over the years, but the one thing that has remained the same here at Fulfords is the importance of serving our customers. Cash drawers have been replaced with computers and horses with trucks, but our purpose has always been to improve the way we serve you.
While hints of the past remain - original wood floors and unique stained glass - the friendly, knowledgeable service you receive remains our constant.
The Beginnings
Fulfords in Owen Sound began in 1932 as a hardware store during the depths of the Great Depression. The principles were simple: work hard, know your product, and respect everyone who walks through your door.
Mindful of hardworking farmers, the store often stayed open until midnight, ensuring a warm greeting and exemplary service were always available after the day's chores were done.
The Second Generation
In 1960, Jim Sr. joined his father in the business after studying Retail Merchandising and attending Bible College. Purchasing the business in 1980, he dedicated it to his faith, beginning every day with prayer.
Under Jim Sr.'s leadership, the business expanded significantly, purchasing neighboring buildings to increase floor space five times over.
The Third Generation
In 2005, Jim Jr. took the reins. Leveraging his background in Mathematics and Computer Science, he grew the business in unprecedented ways, diversifying into luxury bath and kitchen fixtures.
"We search the world for the best products," Jim Jr. says, noting that Fulfords now carries exquisite stoneware sinks and gourmet cookware that rivals the best in Ontario.
The Fourth Generation
In 2022, Jim and Jenn's son Dave Fulford joined the business with his wife Sarah. Leaving a decade-long career at Sherwin Williams, Dave stepped in with a vision to grow The Cook's Cupboard brand.
"Food connects us in so many ways," Dave shares. "Our hope is to create a place where people can connect with each other and be inspired".
Expansion with Purpose
Our recent multi-store expansion across the Grey County and Saugeen Shores region is born out of a deep-seated passion for community-focused retail. From the acquisition of The Cook's Cupboard in Southampton in 2020 to the opening of our Meaford location in 2023, every step is designed to bring world-class products to our neighbors.
We believe that local retail is the heartbeat of a community. By expanding our physical presence into towns like Walkerton and Port Elgin, we aren't just selling hardware or kitchenware; we are creating hubs of connection, providing expert advice, and maintaining the "Way of Life" that the Fulford family has championed for over 90 years.
Visit Us Today
Experience nearly a century of service at any of our five regional locations.
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