MAPLE RIDGE, B.C. — In a landmark moment for the local business community, Maple Ridge bid farewell to one of its most iconic names in 2024. The historic Fuller Watson store, which has been a mainstay on the city’s business landscape for over a century, officially changed hands and underwent a major rebranding this year.
Founded in 1924, Fuller Watson has been synonymous with quality furniture and community service for generations of Maple Ridge residents. The family-owned business weathered the ups and downs of the local economy, adapting to changing times while maintaining its reputation for personal service and reliability.
That legacy entered a new chapter this year when the owners announced the sale of the business. The new proprietors, eager to bring their vision to the beloved institution, decided to retire the Fuller Watson name and introduce a new brand for the store.
A Sentimental Farewell
For many in Maple Ridge, news of the sale brought a wave of nostalgia. Customers shared memories of shopping at the store with parents and grandparents, while longtime employees reflected on decades of service and community involvement.
“It’s the end of an era,” said resident Linda Thompson, who recalled buying her first sofa at Fuller Watson nearly 40 years ago. “The name Fuller Watson was part of Maple Ridge’s identity. It’s hard to imagine downtown without it.”
Looking Ahead
While the iconic name is gone, the new owners have promised to honor the legacy of Fuller Watson by continuing to operate from the same location and maintaining the store’s commitment to quality and customer service. Early signs indicate that the transition has been smooth, with many familiar faces still behind the counter and a renewed sense of energy in the showroom.
“We’re excited to build on what Fuller Watson created,” said the new owner in a statement. “Our goal is to respect the history while bringing fresh ideas to serve the Maple Ridge community for years to come.”
A Sign of Changing Times
The sale and rebranding of Fuller Watson reflect broader changes taking place in Maple Ridge and across the region, as long-established family businesses adapt to new economic realities. While some mourn the loss of a familiar name, others see opportunity in the store’s next chapter.
As 2024 draws to a close, the story of Fuller Watson’s transformation stands as a reminder of Maple Ridge’s resilience and ongoing evolution — and of the cherished role that local businesses play in the heart of the community. The legacy of Fuller Watson is far from forgotten. Instead, it now becomes part of the city’s rich history — a story of resilience, commitment, and the enduring spirit of small-town business.
For many in Maple Ridge, 2024 will be remembered not just for the change but for the century of service that came before it.