W Hurst & Son was started by Charles Wheeler in 1859 as a foundry concentrating on agricultural implement manufacture, servicing and repair for the Island’s booming farming industry.
Charles Wheeler purchased 33 Holyrood Street in Newport, which remains our flagship store to this day.
We began to expand, opening a further five branches across the island: Ventnor, Ryde, Cowes, Freshwater & Shanklin, which was down to the great leadership skills of Harry Chivers & Robin McLaughlin as Managing Directors.
After taking over from Robin McLaughlin, David Bowley was instrumental in introducing our online store, which has grown from strength to strength over the years with many loyal returning customers. Just take a look at our trust pilot reviews, that says it all!
Peter Hartnell brought with him a wealth of experience as Managing Director. He supported growth online and continued to put the customer first whilst delivering several strategic changes. His leadership was invaluable steering the company through a Global Pandemic maintaining a service to the local community.
The current Managing Director, Jevon Kennedy, is building upon a strong community driven foundation, recognising changes in shopping habits and the need to evolve further whilst celebrating our company DNA and the difference we can make to the local economy.
Although we have remained true to our roots as an ironmongers, we've gradually expanded our product range over the years to follow the current trends. We now stock products relating to lighting, chinaware, glassware, housewares and gardening & outdoor living to name just a few. With tens of thousands of products to choose from, our customers really are spoilt for choice.
