Established
1924
Franchise Units
5250
Minimum Investment
$603,850
Franchise Fee
$5,000
Total Investment Range
$2,001,550
Home Based
No
Description
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 5,900 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.
Why Invest in an Ace Hardware Franchise?
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.
Key Reasons to Invest:
Established in 1924 – Over 100 years of proven success
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Highly trusted and recognized brand across the USA and globally
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Retailer-owned cooperative model – earn dividends and retain control
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Comprehensive training & support in operations, marketing, and merchandising
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Flexible store formats – from urban centers to rural communities
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Recession-resistant business in essential retail category
Background
- Founded Year: 1924
Founders: Richard Hesse, E. Gunnard Lindquist, Frank Burke, Oscar Fisher, and William Stauber.
Ownership: Retailer-owned cooperative (Headquartered in Oak Brook, Illinois).
Active Units: Over 5,250 domestic stores (USA) and 5,900+ globally as of early 2026.
Market Presence: Operates in all 50 U.S. states and approximately 60 countries.
Industry Category: Home Improvement / Hardware Retail.
Brand Journey: What started as a small group of Chicago store owners joining forces to increase buying power has evolved into a multi-billion dollar global entity. In 1973, it officially became a cooperative owned by its retailers, ensuring that the people running the stores are the ones guiding the company's future.
Support Training
Ace Hardware provides extensive support to ensure franchisee success:
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Pre-Opening Support: Site selection, lease negotiation, store design, build-out assistance
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Comprehensive Training: In-person and virtual training sessions for owners and staff
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Marketing Assistance: National advertising campaigns, digital marketing tools, local marketing guidance
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Operational Support: Ongoing field support, inventory management tools, technology systems, and a 24/7 support center
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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.
Ideal Candidate
Ace Hardware is looking for individuals who are:
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Passionate about serving their local community
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Driven to succeed and grow their own business
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Interested in retail and home improvement
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Experienced in management or business (preferred but not required)
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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.
Financial Detail
Ace Hardware franchise fees for 2026:
Cash Investment: $250,000
Total Investment:
$603,850 - $2,001,550
Minimum Net Worth: $400,000
Franchise Fee: $5,000
Royalty: $0
Advertising Fund: $0
Average Number of Employees: 20
Passive Ownership: Yes
Home-Based: No
B2B: Yes
Master Franchise Opportunities: Yes