In the heart of Bendigo, a city renowned for its rich history and vibrant community spirit, stands Hume & Iser Mitre 10- a testament to enduring family enterprise and unwavering dedication to local service. Established in the 1880’s by William Hümme and Henry Iser, both immigrants from Hamburg, Germany, the company began as a humble timber supplier catering to the burgeoning goldfields. Over the decades, it has evolved into one of Australia's oldest family owned hardware businesses, now under the leadership of CEO David Pontell.

Reflecting on the company's journey, Pontell remarks, "Our founders laid a foundation of hard work and community focus. It's a legacy we've strived to uphold through five generations.

The early 20th century posed significant challenges, especially during the World Wars. Despite their German heritage, the Hümme and Iser families remained integral to the Bendigo community, a testament to their deep-rooted local ties. This connection enabled them to navigate periods of adversity, including the Great Depression and more recent economic downturns.

In the 1980s, under the guidance of Managing Director Stephen Iser, the company expanded its horizons by joining the Home Timber & Hardware group. This move marked a pivotal shift from a primarily trade-focused timber supplier to a comprehensive hardware retailer, balancing both trade and retail operations. The transformation continued in 2018 when Hume & Iser became the first Home store to undergo the Mitre 10 Sapphire transformation program, enhancing its retail and trade facilities to better serve the community.

Beyond its commercial endeavours, Hume & Iser has consistently prioritised community engagement. The company supports various local initiatives, including Bendigo Foodshare, which addresses food insecurity, and the Men's Shed movement, promoting men's health and wellbeing. Additionally, CEO David Pontell and Sales Manager Paul Woolley have played leading roles in organising Bendigo's Biggest Ever Blokes' Lunch, an annual event raising funds to combat prostate cancer.

Pontell emphasises, "Our commitment extends beyond business. We believe in giving back to the community that has supported us for over a century. This philosophy is evident in the company's recent initiatives, such as the integration of Bendigo Mower Service into the Hume & Iser family, combining over 50 years of lawn care expertise with their trusted legacy. They've also introduced services like the DIY dog wash facility, catering to the diverse needs of Bendigo residents.

As Hume & Iser looks to the future, the focus remains on innovation while honouring tradition. The company's resilience and adaptability have been key to its longevity. Pontell reflects, "Our history is a source of pride, but it's our commitment to evolving with the times and serving our community that will define our future. In an era where businesses often prioritise rapid expansion and short-term gains, Hume & Iser Mitre 10 stands as a beacon of enduring values, community dedication, and a legacy built on trust and service. As Bendigo continues to grow and change, this family-owned enterprise remains a steadfast partner, committed to building a brighter future alongside its community.