Ace Hardware has reached a major milestone of opening its 100th store in 2026 and is on track to open over 170 stores by year-end.
This growth shows strong demand from existing Ace retailers expanding their businesses and independent operators moving to the Ace brand.
The hardware cooperative has been on a major expansion spree, adding over 1,100 stores and growing access to its range of products and services.
Ace Hardware currently operates nearly 5,300 locally owned locations across all 50 states and is pushing towards investments in innovation, supply chain capabilities, and retail support programs.
The business is the largest hardware cooperative in the world and currently serves over 8,950 locally owned and operated stores around the globe.
John Surane, EVP and chief growth officer at Ace Hardware said: “There is a special pride that comes with owning an Ace Hardware store because a great hardware store is more than a place to buy products. It’s part of the fabric of the community it serves.
“For more than a century, independent Ace retailers have proven that local ownership, personal service, and a genuine commitment to their neighbors can not only compete but win against some of the largest and most powerful retailers in the world.
“Reaching our 100th new store yet again this year is a powerful reflection of the strength of that model and the confidence entrepreneurs continue to place in Ace.”
Earlier this year the company expanded its optimization push across warehouses, pricing, and operations as part of its mission to improve efficiency across its supply chain and operations.
Click here to sign up to Retail Gazette‘s free daily email newsletter
