For over 54 years, Harpeth True Value Home Center has been a staple in Franklin, Tennessee, serving the community with a wide range of home improvement products. However, the store is set to close permanently on April 1, 2026, marking a significant shift in the local retail landscape.
Previously, the expectation was that small, independent businesses like Harpeth True Value could thrive alongside larger competitors. Yet, the reality has changed dramatically. The store’s closure is attributed to financial difficulties and the evolving retail environment, which has increasingly favored large chains and online platforms.
In recent years, lumber sales accounted for a staggering 70% to 80% of the store’s revenue. This heavy reliance on a single product category left Harpeth True Value vulnerable to market fluctuations. Owner Mike Outlaw attempted to sell the business but was unsuccessful, leading to this difficult decision.
The impact of True Value’s bankruptcy filing in 2024 cannot be overlooked. Outlaw noted, “It’s hard to say how much the corporate bankruptcy hurt our business, but the perception was there.” This sentiment reflects the broader concerns among independent retailers facing competition from giants like Home Depot, which controlled 28% of the market in 2025, Lowe’s at 17%, and Amazon at 11%.
As Harpeth True Value prepares to close its doors, the store expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Franklin community, stating, “From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for welcoming us into your lives for more than 50 years.” This closure not only signifies the end of a local business but also highlights the challenges faced by small retailers in a rapidly changing market.
Experts suggest that the retail landscape will continue to evolve, with small businesses needing to adapt to survive. The dominance of large chains and online platforms presents ongoing challenges for independent stores, making it increasingly difficult for them to compete.
As the community bids farewell to Harpeth True Value, it serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting local businesses. The closure is a significant loss, not just for the store’s employees and owner but for the entire Franklin community that has relied on its services for decades.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any potential future developments or initiatives aimed at revitalizing the local retail scene in Franklin.