+- MacResource (https://forums.macresource.com)
+-- Forum: My Category (https://forums.macresource.com/forumdisplay.php?fid=1)
+--- Forum: Tips and Deals (https://forums.macresource.com/forumdisplay.php?fid=3)
+--- Thread: Ace Hardware store question (/showthread.php?tid=260548)
Pages:
1
2
Ace Hardware store question - space-time - 10-09-2021
many of them have a person's name like Smith's Ace Hardware or Fisher's Ace Hardware, other had different names like Strathmann Home Center or Town Hardware Inc
is Ace Hardware a franchise or why do some stores have different names?
Thanks
Re: Ace Hardware store question - Spiff - 10-09-2021
They are a franchise, but are independently owned, within the franchise.
Re: Ace Hardware store question - Sarcany - 10-09-2021
They aren't franchises in this country.
It's a co-op.
The stores are locally-owned and operated and use the "Ace" logo as part of their agreement, but are free to use the name/brand in different ways than a franchisee would.
Instead of being required to stock/brand/advertise in various ways dictated entirely from above, they utilize economies of scale to increase their purchasing power and decrease costs and mostly just need to avoid tainting the brand.
When one of them innovates, others can copy from that without seeking permission from a franchiser with the result that they can adapt quickly to changing markets and economic conditions and survive in a recession or a global pandemic.
Re: Ace Hardware store question - space-time - 10-09-2021
I found the people working there more helpful than Lowes and Home Depot, but their prices are a little higher. Also I do not have one in the areas I shop frequently but when I pass by one, I try to stop by and check it out.
Re: Ace Hardware store question - bfd - 10-09-2021
The one closest to here is run by cheapskates. They never turn on the AC in the summer, employing fans which do little to cool down the shopping experience. Working there has to suck big time. Generally, leaving the store is a relief. Obviously, they don't get much business from here… nickel and dime stuff (to match their business model).
Re: Ace Hardware store question - Rick-o - 10-09-2021
We had a local Ace Hardware in my little town. Talk around the campfire says the owner had to pay $60,000. a year (probably around 10 years ago) just to have the Ace Hardware name.
He ditched them and became a "Do-It Center" branded hardware. Still as expensive as Fook. A ten mile drive would get you to a Home Depot, but when you need just one little item, it might be worth it to shop the local hardware and forget about the 20+ mile round trip.
Re: Ace Hardware store question - testcase - 10-09-2021
A well organized and run "old time" hardware store is a JOY to shop in. Staff is usually VERY well versed in their stock and are often able to make good suggestions to help customers solve their problems. I can spend hours roaming the aisles! :oldfogey:
Re: Ace Hardware store question - NewtonMP2100 - 10-10-2021
....Ace is the place with the helpful hardware man.......
Re: Ace Hardware store question - C(-)ris - 10-10-2021
Was just in my local Ace today. Only place that will fix a screen, sharpen a lawn mower blade and keeps spark plugs and air filters in stock for my mower.
They also have an impressive amount of rental tools for those odd times when you need a Dingo or a jack hammer... or maybe just a really tall ladder.
Re: Ace Hardware store question - space-time - 10-10-2021
C(-)ris wrote:
Was just in my local Ace today. Only place that will fix a screen, sharpen a lawn mower blade and keeps spark plugs and air filters in stock for my mower.
They also have an impressive amount of rental tools for those odd times when you need a Dingo or a jack hammer... or maybe just a really tall ladder.
good to know! I need to fix a screen, Thanks!