Open a New Store
Learn about one of the most profitable franchises to own
THE INVESTMENT
$579,000 - $1,900,000+
(depending on store size)
MINIMUM FINANCIAL REQUIREMENTS
$350,000
Liquid Capital
$700,000
Net Worth
Invest In A Trusted Brand
No Ongoing Franchise Fees
No Royalty Fees
No Royalty Fees
You Own the Brand,
Your Store and the Company
Entrepreneur's Franchise 500
#5 overall
#1 In our category by
Entrepreneur Magazine's Franchise 500 List
Franchise Direct
#3 on Franchise Direct
Top 100 Global Franchises
Franchise Times
#5 Franchise Times Top 400
New Store Process
These are the steps to open a hardware store and become a franchise owner.
1
Preview &
Qualification
Qualification
Ace Values
Ace Culture
Exploration
Ace Convention
2
Market
Research
Research
Market Identification
Site Selection
Sales Forecast
Proforma
3
New Store
Application
Application
Franchise Disclosure
Document (FDD)
(where applicable)
4
Store
Development
Development
Store Planning
Opening Stock Order
Store Set Up
5
Store
Opening
Opening
Store Opening
Grand Opening Event
Ace Team of 3 Support & New Owners Training
I've always believed from the start that the culture of our business is the thing that really drives it. It is the difference between our company and our competition.
- Walter Toole | Ace Hardware Owner
Our Results
See why Ace is one of the most popular franchises.
of net new store growth
stores added worldwide
billion in sales
How We Compete
It takes something special to succeed in the hardware business.
SERVICE
We can compete with big boxes with knowledgeable associates and the entrepreneurial spirit of its owners.
CONVENIENCE
Ace stores can be found right in the neighborhood and combine a quick, in-and-out shopping experience with fast checkout.
QUALITY
With top brands like Craftsman, Weber and STIHL, Ace Hardware stores offer the best brands in home improvement.
Ace is the place for...
Veterans
As a benefit for prospective Ace retailers who are also U.S. Veterans, Ace Hardware will waive its $5,000 application fee for those who qualify*
*Owner must have a DD214 and own at least 25% of the business
The Coolest Stores
Only a select few Ace Stores receive this coveted recognition annually, based on how well the store differentiates its offerings, services, and culture to meet the needs of the community.
Women in Retail
Ace supports women-owned franchises. Ace Women in Retail allows retailers to participate in a group that shares ideas, hosts guest speakers, and network with fellow retailers.
Ace History
The beginning of one of the most successful franchises.
1924
•
Four hardware shop owners unite to start Ace Stores, Inc.
1931
•
Ace Stores, Inc. officially changes its name to Ace Hardware Corporation.
1940
•
By the end of the 1940s, Ace Hardware Corporation is supplying 133 Ace stores in seven states.
1959
•
Ace celebrates its 35-year anniversary with sales of $24.5 million and 325 stores.
1963
•
Ace begins to expand into the southeastern and western states.
1975
•
With stores in nearly all 50 states, Ace expands internationally, opening a store in Guam.
1985
•
A retailer ordering masking tape at a store in Michigan pushes Ace past $1 billion wholesale.
1994
•
The "New Retail Age of Ace" is launched to battle the "big box" chain hardware stores and help ensure the company's growth for years to come.
2006
•
Wholesale sales reach 10-year highs and the bottom line exceeds $100 million for the fourth straight year.
2013
•
Ace's Clark+Kensington® semi-gloss and satin paints are ranked No. 1 by a leading consumer magazine.
2019
•
12 out of 13 years ranked "Highest in Customer Satisfaction" by J.D. Power*
