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Ace Hardware Ranks No. 4 on Entrepreneur's Franchise 500

Ace Hardware, renowned as the world's largest hardware cooperative, has once again made headlines by securing the No. 4 spot on Entrepreneur magazine's prestigious Franchise 500 list. This recognition marks a significant achievement for the brand, as it has not only moved up one spot from last year but has also maintained its dominance by being ranked No. 1 in the ‘Miscellaneous Retail Businesses’ category for an impressive fifth consecutive year.

The Franchise 500 ranking is widely regarded as the gold standard of the franchise industry. It evaluates franchise systems based on key metrics such as costs, fees, growth and size, franchisee support, brand strength, and financial stability. It selects the top franchises from hundreds of companies, with the highest scorers making it onto the coveted list.

Commitment to Local Businesses

This recognition is a testament to Ace Hardware's unwavering commitment to supporting small business owners. Their cooperative model is designed to empower local entrepreneurs and ensure they have access to robust operational, marketing, and supply chain support. In the past year, Ace Hardware took significant strides in its growth, opening 180 new stores across the United States, illustrating the company's effective strategy in extending its national footprint.

Andy Enright, Senior Vice President of Retail Strategy and Operations at Ace Hardware, expressed his pride in this achievement, stating, “This recognition is a clear testament to the strength of our cooperative model and the dedication of our local owners and associates, who provide dependable, personal service in their communities every single day.”

Thriving Amidst Change

According to Jason Feifer, editor in chief of Entrepreneur magazine, “For 47 years, the Franchise 500 has been the gold standard for identifying franchise excellence. This year's ranking proves that the best brands don't just survive changing markets; they thrive in them.” This statement emphasizes not only the resilient nature of Ace Hardware but also the strategic effectiveness of its operational practices that have led to consistent growth and success in an ever-evolving market.

Since 2018, Ace has inaugurated 947 new store openings, which includes several conversions to the Ace brand, reiterating its commitment to meeting the dynamic needs of both its customer base and aspiring business owners alike. By blending robust local ownership with a globally recognized brand identity, Ace Hardware remains a reliable partner for franchisees and the communities they serve.

The Broader Ace Family

Additionally, Ace Handyman Services, a subsidiary of Ace Hardware Corporation, has also gained accolades in the 2026 Franchise 500 listing. Ranking No. 1 in the ‘Home Repairs/Handyman Services’ category and No. 259 overall, this division has been instrumental in facilitating local franchise owners to provide professional home repair and enhancement services, addressing various projects such as carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, drywall, painting, and flooring since its launch in 2019.

Looking Ahead

As Ace Hardware continues to navigate the challenges of the retail landscape, its business model's strength shines brightly. The cooperative structure not only supports the growth of individual franchisees but also fosters a sense of community among customers nationwide. The future looks promising as they prepare to tackle evolving consumer demands and continue expanding their impressive network of stores.

To explore the complete Franchise 500 rankings or learn more about becoming a franchise owner with Ace, visit Entrepreneur.com or myace.com.

With Ace Hardware being the trusted name for local hardware needs since 1924, it remains committed to providing exceptional service and fostering strong ties within the community. Whether you require tools, hardware, or expert advice, Ace Hardware exemplifies the spirit of neighborhood service that resonates with countless Americans.