Idaho Lumber celebrates 50 years
By MIKE MCKENNA
In a world full of “me first” people, it’s nice to live in a community where so many folks put “us” or “we” first. It’s these types of people, folks who care deeply for this place and put their time, talents and energy into supporting it, that make the Wood River Valley so special.
And there’s no better example of this “we first” attitude than Idaho Lumber.
Originally opened in 1974 as a truss company, Idaho Lumber will be celebrating its 50th Anniversary with a free concert and birthday party (see details below).
There once was time, however, when Idaho Lumber wasn’t as community-focused. In fact, it used to be known as “I Don’t Know Lumber” and shopping there was about as enjoyable as getting a root canal.
But that all changed after the Hunters bought the place in 2015.
Todd and Angie Hunter decided to purchase Idaho Lumber and move their family of three boys (Gavin, Cash and Lennon) back home to Idaho. On their first night in town, Todd went out to grab some pizza to celebrate. While waiting for their to-go food, Todd asked the bartender what he thought of Idaho Lumber. He told Todd its negative nickname, which everyone else at the bar confirmed.
While this news may have been a setback for some folks, the Hunters quickly realized it was actually a setup for success. They instantly made some major changes, including a big remodel, adding over 20,000 more products, becoming an Ace Hardware partner and creating the new tagline, “We do know lumber … and hardware and much more.”
“We just embraced that challenge as an opportunity,” said Todd, who’s coached local high school football for the last nine years.
Idaho Lumber business instantly took off. While all the aforementioned changes made a difference, Todd said the real keys to their success are their employees.
“A big focus for us is our staff. We really value our employees and we treat them like family,” Todd said. “We want this to be the type of place where people want to come to work.”
Angie oversees much of the staffing details, while all three Hunter boys can be found working at the store when they’re not in school or playing football. “Angie and I make a really great team,” Todd said.
Idaho Lumber just redid its parking lot and is in the midst of a remodel that will add another 2,500 square feet. The new space will expand their RV and camping products as well as a variety of home and sporting goods.
“We’re adding more things that people in this community need,” Todd said.
Already well known for giving back, Idaho Lumber’s birthday bash is just another example of the “we first” attitude that makes it so great.
As Chamber Board President Sarah Benson said, “We need more Todd Hunters in this community.”
Idaho Lumber’s 50th birthday celebration will take place on Saturday, October 12 from 3-9 p.m. at the Hailey rodeo grounds. Food and beverages from Sawtooth Brewery will be available for purchase. The concert is free and everyone in the community is welcome.