1924
4800
$579,000
$5,000
$579,000
No
Become part of the #1 hardware franchise in the U.S. with Ace Hardware. With nearly a century of proven success and brand trust, Ace Hardware offers franchise owners a powerful opportunity to build a community-focused business. As a locally-owned store with the backing of a national cooperative, Ace franchisees benefit from one of the most recognizable names in retail hardware. Founded in 1924, Ace Hardware has grown into the world’s largest retailer-owned hardware cooperative, with more than 5,600 locations across the globe. Headquartered in Oak Brook, Illinois, Ace has become a trusted name in home improvement, tools, paint, lawn & garden, and local hardware solutions. Known as “The Helpful Place,” Ace Hardware has built its reputation on outstanding customer service, quality products, and deep community roots.
Ace Hardware offers a unique franchise model that blends the benefits of independent ownership with the power and support of a globally recognized brand. Unlike typical franchise structures, Ace is a cooperative, meaning store owners are shareholders who receive a portion of company profits through annual dividends. This model promotes collaboration and long-term success.
Established in 1924 – Over 100 years of proven success
Highly trusted and recognized brand across the USA and globally
Retailer-owned cooperative model – earn dividends and retain control
Comprehensive training & support in operations, marketing, and merchandising
Flexible store formats – from urban centers to rural communities
Recession-resistant business in essential retail category
Ace Hardware was founded in 1924 and has grown into the world’s largest hardware cooperative. Unlike traditional franchises, Ace is a retailer-owned cooperative, meaning franchisees are actually owners with voting rights and receive a share of profits annually. This unique structure allows Ace store owners to benefit from national buying power while maintaining local independence.
Today, Ace Hardware is recognized for superior customer service, strong supply chain support, and a broad range of high-quality products including tools, paint, lawn & garden, outdoor living, and home improvement goods.
Ace Hardware began when a small group of Chicago hardware store owners joined forces to buy merchandise in bulk and lower costs. Their cooperative approach created a scalable, sustainable model that continues to thrive today. Over the decades, Ace has helped thousands of entrepreneurs become successful local business owners, offering everything from DIY supplies to professional-grade tools and services.
Ace Hardware provides extensive support to ensure franchisee success:
Pre-Opening Support: Site selection, lease negotiation, store design, build-out assistance
Comprehensive Training: In-person and virtual training sessions for owners and staff
Marketing Assistance: National advertising campaigns, digital marketing tools, local marketing guidance
Operational Support: Ongoing field support, inventory management tools, technology systems, and a 24/7 support center
Merchandising & Product Sourcing: Access to over 100,000 SKUs, private-label products, and top national brands
Ace’s support system is designed to empower franchisees to operate a high-performing store from day one.
Ace Hardware is looking for individuals who are:
Passionate about serving their local community
Driven to succeed and grow their own business
Interested in retail and home improvement
Experienced in management or business (preferred but not required)
Financially qualified with access to necessary capital
Whether you're a first-time entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, Ace Hardware supports you every step of the way.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Franchise Fee | $5,000 |
| Total Investment Range | $579,000 – $1,913,000 |
| Minimum Investment | $579,000 |
| Ongoing Royalty Fee | None (as a cooperative) |
| Marketing Fee | Varies (contributions to national fund) |
| Franchise Units (USA) | Over 4,800 |
