Weir Furniture Centre has been in the community for decades; however, its start was not in furniture but ice.
In 1945, Kenneth Weir and some relatives would cut ice from the river and deliver it to locals for their ice boxes. Ice delivery soon evolved into furniture delivery in Montgomery Ward, which became a moving company and, eventually, a furniture store.
Julie Weir's husband, David Weir, is the third generation involved in the family business. Starting when it was a moving company, he saw the business change from one form to another and to a new location when, in 1981, a fire burned down the store. They rebuilt on Ridge Street, which is where they still are today.
One aspect that hasn't changed throughout the decades is the business's dedication to its customers and Sault Ste. Marie.
"If someone has a problem, we go out of our way to fix that," Julie says, adding that they've replaced furniture for people even when it wasn't under warranty.
Over the years, Weir Furniture Centre has also sponsored hockey teams, players, skating clubs, and the Sault High Boosters, and it takes pleasure in donating items for charity fundraising auctions.
As one of only two furniture stores in town — both family-run — Julie says the relationship between the stores is good and they will even refer customers to the other store if they don't carry an item.
"It's very important to take care of the people who keep coming back," she says.
Nearly 80 years ago, the Weir family was cutting out ice to deliver to the community; now a landmark name, it continues to service the people of Sault. Ste. Marie for their furniture needs.
To learn more about Weir Furniture Centre, visit their website here.
