DELMAR, Del. — Matthew Trader of Rinnier Development Company is pleased to announce the successful sale of the former Bryan & Brittingham Hardware & Feed property in Delmar, Delaware, marking the first change in ownership of the iconic property in more than five decades and the beginning of a new chapter for one of Delmar's most recognizable commercial landmarks.
The property, home to Bryan & Brittingham Hardware & Feed since 1951, has been a cornerstone of the Delmar community for more than 74 years. For generations, the family-owned business served homeowners, farmers, contractors, and local businesses, becoming much more than a hardware and farm supply store. It was a place where neighbors gathered, relationships were built, and countless memories were made before the business recently closed its doors.
"I've been fortunate to close a lot of transactions throughout my nearly 20-year career in commercial real estate, but this one will always be one of the most meaningful," said Trader. "Like so many people who grew up in Delmar, I have childhood memories of running around the loading dock while my family shopped. As I got older, I always looked forward to stopping in, cutting up with Jeff and Bobby, and talking with Robin and Mr. Bob. Bryan & Brittingham wasn't just a hardware and farm supply store. It was a gathering place, and it played a special role in the lives of so many families throughout our community.
It was an honor to be entrusted with the sale of such an iconic property. I'm incredibly grateful to the Messick and Breasure families for placing their trust in me, and I'm so happy we were able to get this transaction across the finish line together. I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to play a small part in the history of such a special place. I sincerely wish both families nothing but the best in the next chapter of their lives. Their legacy will always be a part of Delmar."
For decades, under the leadership of the Messick and Breasure families, Bryan & Brittingham earned a reputation for outstanding customer service while supporting local schools, youth sports, churches, civic organizations, agricultural programs, veterans organizations, and numerous charitable causes. The company's impact extended well beyond its storefront, making it one of Delmar's most respected and enduring local businesses.
The property was purchased by Window World, represented by Keith Walpole of R&R Commercial Realty. Window World plans to relocate its Delmar operations to the site, ensuring the property remains an active commercial destination within the community. In addition to occupying a portion of the building, the company intends to market additional space for lease, creating opportunities for other businesses to become part of this landmark property's next chapter.
Trader added, "While it's bittersweet to see one chapter come to an end, I'm excited to see another begin. I truly hope the Delmar community embraces Window World the same way it embraced Bryan & Brittingham for generations. Although Window World is a nationally recognized brand, the Delmar franchise is family-owned and operated by people with strong values and a genuine commitment to customer service. I wish them nothing but success as they begin this exciting new chapter."
Trader also added, "I'd also like to thank everyone at the Town of Delmar for helping Robin, Jeff, and their family through some of the challenges that came up during this transaction. It was great to see the town take care of the people who spent so many years taking care of the community."
The successful transaction represents another significant commercial real estate sale for Matthew Trader and Rinnier Development Company while marking the first transfer of ownership of the property in more than 50 years. With Window World's investment, one of Delmar's most historic commercial properties will continue serving the community for generations to come.
Matthew Trader specializes in the sale and leasing of Commercial Real Estate. You can contact Trader at: 443-614-4297 I mtrader@rinnier.com
