Ace Hardware
- Ownership Requirement
- Full-time
- Business Type
- Franchise
Own Your Neighborhood Hardware Store
Join the world's largest retailer-owned hardware cooperative and become the helpful place in your community.
Brand overview
Ace Hardware is the world's largest retailer-owned hardware cooperative, where independent owners run their own stores as part of the cooperative. Rather than paying royalties to a franchisor, retailers become owners of the Ace Hardware corporation itself. For generations, the brand has been the trusted neighborhood destination for tools, home improvement supplies, lawn and garden products, paint, and more, backed by national brand recognition and a powerful supply chain network.
Availability
We are currently accepting inquiries in these states:
Gallery
Why choose Ace Hardware
No royalty fees and no ongoing franchise fees. Free initial inventory to stock your shelves. You own the brand, your store, and the company. National brand recognition paired with a strong supply chain network. Award-winning brand ranked #4 on Entrepreneur's Franchise 500 and #1 in its category on the Forbes Best Customer Service List.
Revenue Potential & Investment Requirements
Average Unit Revenue
* in 2025
Total investment
$250,000–$1,000,000
Cash Required
$350,000
Net worth
$700,000
Franchise fee
$5,000
Royalty fee
None - franchisor charges no royalty
Ad fund %
2%
Total units
5,144
Financing available
Financing is available through installment payments for certain costs under incentive programs.
Real estate required
Yes
Growth Trends
Training & support
Ace supports owners through every step, from initial discussions to market selection, site selection, and real estate negotiations. Once your store is open, ongoing support covers merchandising, marketing, inventory management, training, and technology, so you are never running your business alone.
Ideal candidate
Local entrepreneurs who want to be the helpful place in their community and build a lasting legacy their family and neighborhood can be proud of. If you are passionate about service, connected to your community, and ready to own a business that neighbors rely on, Ace Hardware may be the right fit.
With no royalty fees, free initial inventory, and the backing of a nationally recognized cooperative, Ace Hardware offers a proven path to business ownership. If you are ready to bring helpful, local service to your community, request more information to start the conversation.