Hardware leader on track to open more than 170 stores this year while investing in retailer growth, supply chain expansion and strategic partnerships

OAK BROOK, Ill., Sept. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Ace Hardware, the world’s largest hardware cooperative, today marked its 100^th 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,” said 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 100^th 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 six years, Ace has added more than 1,100 new stores, expanding access to the products, services and expertise customers rely on in communities nationwide.

Ace’s growth and stability continue to earn recognition across the franchise industry. In 2026, Ace Hardware was named the No. 1 franchise in the hardware category and among the top-ranked brands overall in Entrepreneur magazine’s “Best of the Best” rankings. Ace also climbed to No. 4 overall on Entrepreneur’s annual Franchise 500 ranking, maintaining its place among the top-ranked franchises for the fifth consecutive year.

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.

Those interested in exploring Ace Hardware store ownership opportunities can learn more at www.myace.com.

About Ace Hardware
Ace Hardware is the largest hardware cooperative in the world, serving more than 8,950 locally owned and operated stores around the globe, while providing the best products, services, and operating methods to almost 5,300 Ace retail stores 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 operates an expansive network of U.S. distribution centers, along with international capabilities in Ningbo, China. Since 1924, Ace has been a part of local communities, known as the place with the helpful hardware folks. For more information, visit acehardware.com or newsroom.acehardware.com.

Contact: Media@AceHardware.com

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SOURCE Ace Hardware Corporation