Ace Hardware is the Place for an Economically Resistant Business Opportunity

Ace Hardware is not just the #1 retailer in convenience hardware, the brand is also virtually resistant to economic ups and downs. That makes it a solid investment opportunity for franchisees.

Ace Hardware is the undisputed convenience hardware leader in the home improvement industry. “As a retailer-owned cooperative, owners have access to the most recognized and respected brand in the industry, they own their store, and are a shareholder of the company,” said Ace Hardware’s Jason Hipskind, Vice President of New Business. “There are no franchise fees, they keep all their store's profit, plus receive a year-end patronage dividend based on the profitability of the company.”

The hard numbers back up Ace Hardware’s success. Twelve years in a row of increased same-store sales and gross profit, fourteen years in a row of increased transaction size, 10 years in a row of net new store growth, including 182 new locations in 2021, and 15 out of 16 years ranked “Highest in Customer Satisfaction” by J.D. Power and Associates.  “Add those incredible results with the most recognized and trusted name in convenience hardware and there has never been a better time to invest in opening your Ace Hardware,” said Hipskind.

Ace Hardware’s business model is able to face the challenge of changing economic cycles. Hipskind said the stores are well positioned as the best, most helpful hardware stores on the planet.  They are an essential business that serves local communities no matter the economic conditions. “It’s a recession-resistant business because consumers always have a need to protect and improve what is typically their largest asset - their home,” he said.

Ace Hardware is globally trusted and locally embraced with 86% brand recognition and the flexibility to cater to the needs of local customers. Owners can localize their business to best serve their neighbors and can expect the world-class support of the Ace Hardware Team. “Our passion is the in the ever-improving store model and all our efforts are focused on driving a higher top line and a fatter bottom line at every store,” said Hipskind.

Right now Ace is looking to partner with entrepreneurs who are aligned with the brand’s values and committed to delivering on its helpful promise. Hipskind said the brand relentlessly pursues winning, excellence, love, integrity, gratitude, humility, and teamwork, and expects the same dedication from store owners. 

Franchisees receive extensive support before, during, and after coming on board with the brand. A team of local experts support owners with market analysis, sales forecasting, and final site selection. That’s followed by in-person training, virtual training, product knowledge training, one-on-one coaching, and in-store training. Prior to the opening of the store, owners have an Ace Project Manager assigned to assist with the store planning and project management process through the opening of the store.  After opening, owners have an Ace District Manager assigned that partners with owners to support their ongoing operations and team.

There is no better time than right now to find out more about how you can own and operate one of the best, most helpful hardware stores on the planet. The brand has identified hundreds of development areas in target markets all across the country, offers franchisees a network of local tenant brokers working with their national real estate partner, and there are a few existing Ace locations that are for sale. Find out more about how you can join the Ace team by visiting myace.com.

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Ace Hardware
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