Oak Brook, Ill. — Ace Hardware, the world’s largest hardware cooperative, has marked its 100th new store opening of 2026 and remains on pace to open more than 170 new stores by year-end. The growth reflects strong demand from existing Ace retailers expanding their businesses, independent operators converting to the Ace brand and new entrepreneurs joining the cooperative.
“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,” says John Surane, executive vice president and chief growth officer at Ace Hardware. “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.”
Over the past 6 years, Ace has added more than 1,100 new stores.
Today, Ace operates nearly 5,300 locally owned stores across all 50 states and continues to invest in innovation, supply chain capabilities, retail support programs and marketing initiatives designed to help retailers thrive.
Ace Hardware is the largest hardware cooperative in the world with more than 8,950 locally owned and operated stores around the globe (almost 5,300 Ace retail stores being in the United States). Ace Hardware’s family of brands includes Ace Hardware, Emery Jensen Distribution and independent retailers worldwide. Headquartered in Oak Brook, Ill., Ace was founded in 1924. For more information, visit www.myace.com.
SOURCE: Ace Hardware Corporation