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    Ace Hardware
    Retail

    Ace Hardware

    United States flagUnited States

    "The Helpful Place"

    Founded October 25, 1924 Oak Brook, Illinois
    Community

    About

    Richard Hesse and three partners opened the first Ace Stores in Chicago on October 25, 1924. They built a network that grew rapidly after World War II, tripling sales volume between the late 1940s and 1959. The company rebranded to Ace Hardware Corporation in 1931 before undergoing a major structural change in 1973 when Hesse retired.

    The shift turned the business into a retailer-owned cooperative where local shop owners hold equity rather than acting as simple franchisees. This model allows independent operators to tailor inventory to neighborhood needs while leveraging centralized purchasing power. Wholesale sales hit $1 billion in 1985 and surged to $5 billion by 2015.

    Today the organization operates more than 5,200 locations across over 60 countries. It manages 17 distribution centers in the United States alongside international facilities in China, Panama, and the United Arab Emirates. The brand maintains a strong digital presence through AceHardware.com and offers online shopping tools alongside its physical stores.

    Products & Sub-brands

    GrillsPower toolsLawn and garden suppliesPaintAutomotive productsSeasonal itemsHand toolsPlumbing supplies

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Who owns Ace Hardware?
    Ace Hardware is owned by its independent member-owners who operate the local stores. It functions as a retailer-owned cooperative headquartered in Oak Brook, Illinois, rather than a publicly traded corporation.
    Is Ace Hardware still in business?
    Yes, Ace Hardware is thriving with over 5,200 locations globally. The company continues to expand its footprint and recently celebrated its nearly century-long history since its founding in 1924.
    How much is Ace Hardware worth?
    As a private cooperative, exact valuation figures are not public. The company reported $5 billion in wholesale sales by 2015 and continues to grow its market share against big-box competitors.
    What is the difference between Ace Hardware and Home Depot?
    Ace Hardware consists of independently owned local stores offering personalized service and community-focused inventory. Home Depot operates as a massive corporate chain with standardized big-box locations.
    Where is Ace Hardware located?
    Ace Hardware has over 5,200 stores across more than 60 countries. Its headquarters sits in Oak Brook, Illinois, with distribution centers strategically placed in the U.S., China, Panama, and the UAE.

    Keywords

    hardware storecooperativehome improvementretailtoolslocal businessAce Rewards

    Sources

    WikipediaOfficial WebsiteForbesBusiness WireInc. Magazine

    Company Info

    Founded
    October 25, 1924
    Founder
    Richard Hesse
    Headquarters
    Oak Brook, Illinois
    Industry
    Retail
    Parent Company
    Ace Hardware Corporation (Retailer-Owned Cooperative)
    Global Locations
    Over 5,200
    Countries Served
    Over 60
    Distribution Centers
    17 in US plus international
    Wholesale Sales (2015)
    $5 billion

    Official Website

    www.acehardware.com/

    Links

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