Tools You Can Trust – Meet Mal from Direct Bargain Warehouse

For over a decade, Mal Heron has been the driving force behind Direct Bargain Warehouse—a business built on decades of industry experience and a dedication to quality over quantity. Shoppers at the Manning Road Farmers Market will likely recognise Mal’s popular stall, known for its well-curated range of garden tools and home solutions that truly stand the test of time.

Mal isn’t new to the world of hardware. In fact, before launching Direct Bargain Warehouse, he spent 29 years running a hardware wholesale business. When that chapter came to a close, he decided to pivot his expertise and start something new. The result is a thriving small business focused on providing the public with reliable, effective tools—without compromising on quality.

“I concentrate on quality over price,” Mal explains. It’s a philosophy that runs through every product he stocks, from heavy-duty ratchet secateurs to fruit fly traps made right here in Western Australia.

Direct Bargain Warehouse has developed a loyal customer base over the years, thanks in large part to Mal’s commitment to sourcing high-quality products and providing excellent service. His stall at Manning Road Farmers Market is a testament to how useful, practical tools can still find a place in today’s fast-paced, digital-first world.

Among the standout products in Mal’s range are the ratchet secateurs, gall wasp traps, and WA-made fruit fly traps. These are staples for any home gardener or backyard enthusiast—especially in a state like Western Australia where growing your own produce is increasingly popular. Each item in his collection is chosen not for how trendy it might be, but for how well it works and how long it lasts.

Mal’s tools are particularly well-suited to Perth’s climate and gardening conditions. He imports many of his gardening tools from Taiwan, ensuring they’re made to a high standard, and his pest control products are local favourites for tackling seasonal issues that affect fruit trees and veggie patches across the state.

But as with any market-based business, there are seasonal challenges. “The major challenge is selling in winter,” says Mal, noting that his products are less in demand during the wet season. To navigate this, he adjusts his attendance to a fortnightly schedule during the colder months, ensuring his offerings remain relevant and valuable to customers.

Despite those seasonal fluctuations, Mal says one of the things he enjoys most about being at Manning Road Farmers Market is the atmosphere—and the people. “Great customers and atmosphere,” he says, describing what keeps him coming back week after week.

For Mal, it’s not just about making sales—it’s about creating relationships and becoming a reliable presence in the community. “Having repeat customers and fantastic feedback from customers” are some of his proudest achievements, and it’s clear he’s earned their trust by consistently showing up with quality products and genuine advice.

His community involvement also extends beyond the market, as he regularly attends community meetings and collaborates with other local businesses and stallholders as much as possible. Whether it’s sharing knowledge or simply supporting each other, Mal values the strong sense of community that Manning Road Farmers Market fosters among both vendors and visitors alike.

Looking ahead, Mal has no plans to slow down just yet. “To continue for a few more years,” he says when asked about his future plans. With major events like the Perth Garden Festival on his radar, he continues to look for new opportunities to connect with customers and grow his business.

You can find Mal and Direct Bargain Warehouse most Saturdays at Manning Road Farmers Market—especially during the warmer months—where he’s always happy to help you find the right tools for your garden or home. His full range is also available online at directbargainwarehouse.com.au, offering even more convenience for customers across Perth and beyond.

If you’re after high-quality gardening tools, pest solutions, or advice from someone who knows his products inside out, don’t miss Direct Bargain Warehouse at the market. It’s small business done right—with a solid handshake, honest products, and decades of experience behind every sale.