Ace Hardware Franchise in 2025: Costs, Fee & FDD
Discover why Ace Hardware is a standout franchise opportunity in the competitive retail hardware industry. Learn about investment costs, franchise structure, and key success factors that make Ace Hardware a trusted name for potential franchisees.
Table of Contents:
Ace Hardware is more than just your neighborhood hardware store; it’s a cornerstone of the DIY and home improvement industry. Founded in 1924 by a group of Chicago hardware store owners—Frank Burke, E. Gunnard Lindquist, Oscar Fisher, and Richard Hesse—the company was born out of a desire to provide small retailers with the buying power to compete with larger chains. Over the decades, Ace Hardware has grown into a powerhouse in the industry, known for its customer-first philosophy and community focus.
Ace Hardware’s core offerings revolve around home improvement and maintenance products. This includes everything from paint, tools, and lawn and garden supplies to plumbing and electrical materials. But they don’t stop there—they also provide niche services like key cutting, screen repair, and even small engine repair, catering to the everyday needs of homeowners and DIY enthusiasts. Their primary market? Everyday consumers looking for reliable products and expert advice, whether they’re seasoned handymen or first-time homeowners tackling weekend projects.
With over 5,400 locations across 70 countries, Ace Hardware has cemented its global presence. In the U.S. alone, they serve millions of customers daily. Their cooperative structure, where store owners are shareholders, has allowed them to scale while maintaining a strong sense of local ownership and community connection. This model has proven successful, making Ace Hardware a trusted name worldwide.
As for support, Ace Hardware offers a comprehensive franchise system. They provide extensive training programs, from initial onboarding to ongoing development, ensuring franchisees are well-prepared to run their stores. This includes everything from product knowledge to customer service strategies. Additionally, Ace offers marketing support and a robust supply chain, allowing franchisees to focus on their customers. With a legacy of nearly a century, Ace Hardware continues to be a strong contender in the retail franchise space.
Ace Hardware Franchise Insights
- Ace Hardware’s cooperative model means store owners are also shareholders, creating a unique community-driven business model where everyone has a stake in the company’s success. This approach has helped the franchise expand to over 5,400 locations globally while maintaining a strong local focus.
- Ace Hardware stores are often recognized for their exceptional customer service, winning the J.D. Power Award for “Highest in Customer Satisfaction with Home Improvement Retail Stores” 15 out of the last 16 years. This reputation for service excellence can be a significant draw for potential franchisees.
- Ace Hardware’s average store size is around 10,000 square feet, offering an extensive range of products while still maintaining a neighborhood store feel. This balance allows franchisees to cater to a wide array of customer needs without overwhelming their space.
Ace Hardware Franchise Key indicators
Unit Growth YOY (%)
3%
vs industry 0%
Total U.S. Franchised Units
4,759
3-Year Failure Rate
5%
vs industry 14%
Sales-to-Investment ratio
2.7:1
How much does it cost to open an Ace Hardware franchise?
Understanding the potential investment size and capital requirements is crucial when considering opening an Ace Hardware franchise. These financial commitments, including initial franchise fees, equipment costs, and ongoing operational expenses, impact the feasibility and profitability of the venture. Thoroughly evaluating these factors ensures that potential franchisees are prepared for the financial responsibilities and can make informed decisions about their ability to sustain and grow the business, ultimately contributing to long-term success.
Min & Max Investment
Opening an Ace Hardware franchise involves several key costs, which are outlined in Item 7 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). You can see a breakdown of the costs to open an Ace Hardware below from the most recent Item 7 below:
| Type of Expenditure | Minimum Investment | Maximum Investment |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Franchise Fee | $10,000 | $10,000 |
| Advertising (Initial Brand Assessment) | $6,000 | $12,000 |
| Advertising (Local Lift Max Assessment) | $5,000 | $37,000 |
| Exterior Signage | $10,000 | $30,000 |
| Leasehold Improvements | $102,750 | $200,850 |
| Store Set-Up Labor | $48,000 | $160,000 |
| Equipment | $91,100 | $138,100 |
| Rent (First 3 Months) | $21,000 | $107,000 |
| Prepaid Expenses (Dues, Permits, Subscriptions, etc.) | $3,000 | $15,000 |
| Opening Inventory | $210,000 | $1,000,000 |
| Initial Supplies | $3,000 | $7,500 |
| Insurance | $2,500 | $30,000 |
| New Investor Retail Training | $0 | $37,730 |
| Additional Funds (Working capital for first 90 days) | $90,000 | $205,000 |
| Total Estimated Initial Investment | $602,350 | $1,990,180 |
Item 7 in the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) is the “Estimated Initial Investment” section. It outlines the total costs a franchisee can expect to incur when starting a franchise, including the initial franchise fee, equipment, inventory, real estate, and other startup expenses. This section is crucial because it provides potential franchisees with a detailed understanding of the financial commitment required, helping them assess affordability and plan their investment strategy effectively.
Required Capital
When considering an investment in Ace Hardware, or a similar franchise in the retail hardware industry, you’ll need to be prepared for a substantial financial commitment. Below are the estimated capital requirements and financial criteria needed to get started:
- Initial Capital Investment To open an Ace Hardware store, you’ll typically need between $602,000 to $1.99 million. This range covers costs such as inventory, equipment, and initial leasehold improvements, though actual costs can vary depending on location and store size. Assuming that you will finance your franchise investment, you should plan to have 20% of the total investment amount in the form of equity (cash) for the investment.
- Liquid Assets Requirement You should have at least $250,000 in liquid assets. This ensures you have enough cash on hand to cover the early operating expenses and any unforeseen costs during the initial stages of the business.
- Net Worth Requirement A net worth of at least $400,000 to $800,000 is generally recommended. This figure reflects your overall financial health and ensures you’re in a strong position to manage the business long-term.
How much does an Ace Hardware store franchise owner make?
Calculating the salary of an Ace Hardware store franchise owner involves analyzing gross sales to determine total revenue, assessing operational efficiency to understand profit margins, and accounting for franchisor fees and additional expenses such as rent, utilities, and payroll. Effective management of these factors can significantly impact the profitability and financial success of an Ace Hardware store franchise owner. This comprehensive financial analysis helps estimate net profits, from which the owner’s salary can be derived. A clear understanding of these factors ensures accurate salary projections and financial planning for sustainable business operations.
Ace Hardware store Revenue & Gross Sales
Based on most recent analysis, Ace Hardware franchises have a median gross sales of $2,895,085. This solid performance highlights the revenue and profitability potential of Ace Hardware stores and their potential to deliver strong returns on investment. The high gross sales level makes Ace Hardware an appealing option for entrepreneurs looking to enter the retail hardware space.
Which key factors impact the average revenue performance of Ace Hardware franchisees?
The strong performance of U.S. franchisee median gross sales for Ace Hardware can be attributed to several key factors. First, the brand’s reputation for exceptional customer service has helped drive repeat business and build a loyal customer base. Additionally, Ace Hardware’s focus on serving local communities with a personalized shopping experience sets it apart from larger, impersonal big-box stores. The franchise’s cooperative structure, where owners have a vested interest in success, likely motivates them to invest in their stores and cater to their unique markets. Furthermore, the steady demand for home improvement products, particularly during economic shifts that encourage DIY projects, has supported sales growth. Finally, Ace’s comprehensive support and supply chain efficiency ensure franchisees have the tools and products needed to meet customer demands effectively.
Ace Hardware Franchise Operational Costs
When considering opening an Ace Hardware franchise, it’s important to factor in the ongoing operational costs that will impact your bottom line. Understanding these costs will help you plan for long-term success and ensure that your business runs smoothly.
- Inventory Management Regularly replenishing stock is essential to meet customer demands, especially for high-turnover items like tools, paint, and seasonal products.
- Employee Wages and Benefits Staffing your store with knowledgeable employees is crucial for maintaining Ace Hardware’s reputation for excellent customer service.
- Utilities and Rent Operating a retail space involves ongoing expenses like electricity, heating, cooling, and the cost of leasing your store location.
- Equipment Maintenance Maintaining store fixtures, point-of-sale systems, and any repair or service equipment is necessary to keep operations running efficiently.
- Marketing and Local Advertising While Ace Hardware provides national marketing support, you’ll also want to invest in local promotions to attract customers in your community.
Being aware of these primary ongoing operational costs will help you manage your budget effectively and keep your franchise profitable over time.
Ace Hardware Franchise Fees
When evaluating the financial commitments of owning an Ace Hardware franchise, it’s essential to understand the fee structure beyond just the initial investment. Ace Hardware stands out in the industry by offering a unique fee model that provides some financial relief for franchisees, particularly through the absence of ongoing royalty fees.
- Royalty Fee Unlike many franchises, Ace Hardware does not require ongoing franchise or royalty fees, allowing franchisees to retain more of their profits.
- Annual Brand Assessment For the store’s first calendar year, a flat fee of $6,000 per store is charged. In subsequent years, the fee is calculated as 2% of the prior year’s purchases, subject to minimum and maximum assessments, ensuring that the fee aligns with your store’s scale.
- Additional Fees There are additional fees for training programs, technology, and other items provided by Ace Hardware that may be applied.
Understanding these fees is crucial for planning your financial strategy and ensuring that you have the necessary resources to support both the initial setup and the ongoing success of your Ace Hardware franchise.
Ace Hardware Franchise Earnings
The earnings potential for an Ace Hardware franchise owner can be quite attractive, particularly for those taking an active, hands-on approach. With median gross sales of approximately $2,895,085, owner-operators can expect estimated earnings of roughly $347,000, which equates to an operating profit margin of 12%, showcasing the potential for significant income when the business is managed efficiently.
Operating as an owner-operator allows franchisees to directly influence their store’s performance, maximizing profitability through effective cost management and customer service. By being involved in day-to-day operations, franchise owners can better control expenses, optimize inventory, and engage with the local community, all of which contribute to stronger financial results. This model highlights the potential rewards of a well-managed Ace Hardware franchise, particularly for those willing to invest time and effort into their business.
How to Open an Ace Hardware Franchise
Becoming a franchisee involves a series of steps designed to ensure that both you and the franchisor are aligned in your business goals. The process is thorough to help prospective franchisees make an informed decision and set up a successful operation.
- Initial Inquiry You or your franchise specialist submits an initial inquiry basic information about your interest and background. You should also conduct thorough research on the franchise, including seeing all of the information available on the Vetted Biz franchise intelligence platform, including access to the most recent Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).
- Application and Evaluation Submit a formal application to the franchisor, including financial information and personal background. The franchisor will evaluate your application to ensure you meet their criteria and have the necessary resources.
- Discovery Day If your application is successful, you’ll be invited to a Discovery Day. This is an opportunity to visit the franchise headquarters, meet with the team, and gain deeper insights into the business operations and culture.
- Franchise Agreement If both parties agree to move forward, you’ll sign the franchise agreement. This legal document outlines the terms of the partnership, including fees, obligations, and rights.
- Training and Preparation Before opening your store, you’ll undergo comprehensive training provided by the franchisor. This includes operational procedures, marketing strategies, and customer service standards.
- Site Selection and Setup Work with the franchisor to choose a suitable location for your store. Once selected, you’ll proceed with site development, including construction, equipment installation, and inventory setup.
- Grand Opening After finalizing preparations, your store will be ready for its grand opening. The franchisor may assist with launch promotions and provide ongoing support to ensure a successful start.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Strong Brand Reputation: Ace Hardware is renowned for its customer service and community-oriented approach, which can attract a loyal customer base and enhance your store’s reputation.
No Ongoing Royalty Fees: The absence of ongoing royalty fees allows you to retain more of your profits, making it financially appealing for franchisees.
Established Market Presence: With over 5,400 locations globally, Ace Hardware’s well-established presence and solid market performance provide a reliable foundation for your investment.
Flexibility in Store Management: The cooperative model allows you to be actively involved in managing your store, which can lead to better operational efficiency and profitability.
Cons
Dependence on Local Market: Success can heavily depend on the local market conditions and competition. A less favorable location or economic downturn could impact sales.
Operational Challenges: Managing a retail store requires handling various aspects of operations, from inventory management to staffing, which can be demanding and time-consuming.
Competitive Market: The hardware and home improvement sector is highly competitive, with numerous national and local players. This can pose challenges in differentiating your store and attracting customers.
Seasonal Fluctuations: Sales in the hardware industry can be affected by seasonal changes, with varying demand for products throughout the year, which may impact cash flow and inventory management.
