Delphi store expands inventory
By Kevin Schnepp Staff writer

Standing behind their products Jim and Marianne Bowyer display a bay window for sale at their store on US421 across from Delphi Community High School. The store offers a variety of new items at reduced prices. Comet photo by Kevin Schnepp

The timeless adage goes something like, "If you want something done the way you want it, you're going to have to do it yourself."

When Jim and Marianne Bowyer bought the former Delphi Nursing Home building at 1433 S. Washington St. in Delphi five years ago, they said they hoped to rent the space to businesses.

While they rented the front space to a local restaurant, they sold a few items from the back room of the building. When the restaurant re-located, they decided to put their own ideas to work and expand their own store instead of renting to another business.

They created MB Discounts, a variety store of sorts with strong inclinations toward do-ityourself home improvement balanced out by a selection of quality decorative creature comforts.

Most recently the couple has worked to expand store inventory. Jim Bowyer gave the Comet a store tour during a May 1 interview and revealed a host of new products.

A short list of those items include patio and deck furniture, tools, door handles, kitchen cabinets, plumbing and electrical supplies, signage, paint products, toys, seasonal products, hardware and windows.

Jim Bowyer said the windows are a special deal because he can sell them at steep discounts compared to retail prices. In-stock windows come in a wide range of sizes and shapes, including square, rectangular, round and bay styles.

He suggested if customers see something they like they should get it while they can. Although most items are re-stocked regularly, some are special one-time deals that may not re-appear for some time.

"If there's something you like but we don't have the quantity you need, let me know," Jim Bowyer said. "In many cases I can keep my eyes peeled and find the rest of what you need."

Marianne Bowyer, the "MB" in MB Discounts, said the front of the store changes by season. Currently brimming with spring and summer items, the area will experience transformation as autumn approaches. She added holiday themes also appear during the year.

The couple lived in Tippecanoe County for many years. They said they moved to Delphi because of how much they like the area. They have five children, one of whom is a senior at DCHS.

"We are local people," the couple agreed. "We love to cater to local needs."

MB Discounts is open Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.