A town staple changed hands for a new generation of longevity on July 1. Clay Center’s Gibson ACE Hardware, located on the west side of town off Crawford, was purchased by Morree and Aaron Floersch. 

Gibson’s has been operating in Clay Center for 50 years by the Jones family out of Salina.

“We’re incredibly honored to carry the torch,” Morree said. “We’re stepping into this role with deep respect and great enthusiasm. Our goal is to preserve everything people love about Gibson’s while enhancing the customer experience.” 

The Floersches reached out to the Jones family after hearing they sold their El Dorado store; the Joneses retain the Salina Gibson’s location. 

Eventually, new inventory may be offered, but the new owners first plan to offer building updates.

Tentatively slated for October, Aaron said sales will be hosted prior to create necessary space for the remodel. The store will remain open as “dramatic” changes will be made with “thoughtful improvements” to the current infrastructure.

“This is about honoring tradition while embracing progress,” he said. “We don’t want to lose the reputation of having one of everything. It’s the only toy store in town, the only place to get a kid’s bike. We’re still going to offer hunting and fishing gear and licenses through the state of Kansas.” 

He added that the location will work to fulfill local needs that can be shopped locally. 

“There is that Amazon buyer who has to wait for it, but you can hopefully walk in and get it right now. Or if you’re on your way to a party and can swing in and get a kids’ gift.” 

Current employees will stay with the store, while the Floersches will work both on and off-site. 

As the CEO of Ray’s Apple Market, he said Gibson’s will remain a separate entity, but will utilize some of Ray’s workforce. 

“We will use some common resources, payroll, HR, and employee benefits. The staff is excited to switch it up and do something different too.” 

In addition, Morree works as Project Manager for Oetinger-Lloyd Construction and is the Chairperson for the Clay Center Community Improvement Foundation Board of Directors. 

The pair live in Clay Center and have three children.