Brinkmann's hardware chain buys Trio Hardware in Plainview

Trio Hardware in Plainview has changed owners and will soon have a new name after more than 60 years in business.

Hardware retailer Brinkmann’s purchased Trio in the fall from Todd and Ritsa Kirschner, Todd Kirschner said via text message Thursday.

“A rebranding will occur over the winter,” said Kirschner, adding that he and his wife will stay involved in the business.

Trio, at 1655 Old Country Rd., has 12 employees — who will all remain on staff — he said.

Brinkmann’s, which is headquartered in Sayville, could not be immediately reached for comment Thursday.

Bernie Carlow bought Trio Hardware in 1963 and expanded the business. In 1973, one of his sons, Bruce Carlow, left his job as a high school teacher to help his father run the store, Newsday reported in 2014.

Bruce Carlow and his wife, Francesca Carlow, later took over the store.

In 2012, the couple created a buyout deal that gave the Kirschners 50% ownership in Trio,  growing to 100% by 2017.

Brinkmann’s has five other stores on Long Island, including in Blue Point, Glen Cove and Holbrook.

Founded in 1976 by Tony and Pat Brinkmann, the hardware business is part of the True Value buying group.

The Brinkmanns' three children — Hank, Ben and Mary — now run the business.

Check back for updates on this developing story.

By Tory N. Parrish

tory.parrish@newsday.comToryParrish1

Tory N. Parrish covers retail and small business for Newsday. She has worked at the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review and Observer-Dispatch in Utica, N.Y.