Penfield, N.Y. -- "We've learned from past seasons and we've bulked up on the things we sell the most of and we're definitely prepared for the season,” says Beyond Hardware’s Andie Schweigert on winter accessories.If the past is any indication of what the future holds, stores like Beyond Hardware in Penfield are well prepared; the only problem, what they're waiting for really hasn't arrived.
"Last year we had trouble keeping shovels and snow blowers in stock, they would sell as quickly as we could get them in,” said Schweigert.
The hardware store relies on winter sales for a good chunk of its business.
Instead, in the middle of winter, the store’s shelves are fully stocked at a time when they should be empty.
Even the procrastinator can have their first pick of any shovel, snow blower or a bag of ice melt.
"I got a shovel thinking I would need it, ready for the season and then I never ended up using it, it's still sitting in the garage,” said Tyler Cannan.
While the unusual mild weather has put sales in a slumber, it's awakened a nuisance for pet owners.
"The weather's been warm so the fleas came out of hibernation so now I've got a summer issue in the middle of January,” said Clarice Wilkinson.
Wilkinson is now searching for flea medicine.
"I'd be better off finding a snow brush,” Wilkinson said.
There's plenty of that in stock and chances are, if you stock them, that winter weather will come – this is Western New York after all.
Bigger stores like Home Depot say they have lots of winter supplies in stock with the exception of snow blowers.
The store also says it’s starting to make room for spring items.
