Long-time E.C. Barton employee retires

Harold Bouland, vp-retail purchasing and wholesale operations of E.C. Barton & Company, has retired from the company after 43 years.

E.C. Barton, a hardware store chain with 11 locations in Arkansas and nine in Missouri, is a member of the Do it Best co-op. Joe Corah, division manager of commodities for Do it Best, and Tom Nolen, a retail development specialist with the company, were on hand at Bouland’s retirement celebration to present him with plaques commemorating his long-term support of E.C. Barton’s relationship with the Fort Wayne, Ind.-based co-op.

Bouland began working at E.C. Barton after graduating from Arkansas State College (now Arkansas State University) in 1965. With a degree in accounting, Bouland initially managed the company’s books and handled sales. He was soon promoted to assistant manager, a position he held for 11 years, before being named a district manager, a position he held for 20 years. Bouland later served as vp-special projects. He will remain on the company’s board of directors.

“Harold Bouland has served E.C. Barton & Company with uncompromising honor and loyalty,” said Niel Crowson, president and CEO of the company. “We are grateful for his 43 years of service and the many contributions he has made to our success.”