Ace Hardware Celebrates One Year of ELEVATE³ Ace Experiential Store Format

Celebrating a Year of Innovation

This month, Ace Hardware proudly marks the one-year anniversary of its groundbreaking ELEVATE³ Ace experiential store format. Initially introduced during last year's Ace Hardware Fall Convention, this fresh approach transforms the traditional hardware shopping experience into a vibrant, immersive journey.

By focusing on four key areas—Paint, Power, Backyard Barbecue, and Home Preservation—Ace has created engaging spaces that invite customers to explore, interact with products, and enjoy a more inspired shopping atmosphere. With the successful completion of over 130 remodels, the impact of ELEVATE³ Ace is evident, driving growth of +12% in sales and +10% in gross profit dollars when compared to stores that have not embraced this new format.

What Makes ELEVATE³ Ace Stand Out?

John Venhuizen, President and CEO of Ace Hardware, emphasized the importance of the new format, stating, "ELEVATE³ Ace is experiential retail wrapped in the servant-hearted humanity that's made Ace famous. These stores allow customers to see, touch, and try the best of Ace while staying true to our mission of serving neighbors. A year in, they’re driving strong growth for our retailers and making Ace an even more valuable part of the communities we serve.”

Category Insights

The results from the newly remodeled businesses showcase remarkable sales improvements across key categories. The Power tools section experienced an impressive +25% sales increase, showcasing trusted brands such as Craftsman, DeWalt, EGO, Milwaukee, Stihl, and Toro. Similarly, the Barbecue category surged with a +22% increase, featuring top names like Big Green Egg, Blackstone, Traeger, and Weber. The Backyard category grew by +6% in sales through offerings from Lodge, Solo Stove, Stanley, and YETI, while the Paint category displayed a +6% increase in sales with reputable brands including Benjamin Moore, Clark+Kensington, and Magnolia Home. Finally, the Home Preservation category saw an +8% sales growth, supported by leading products from Scotts.

Highlights from the Fall Convention

From August 12th to 14th, Ace Hardware hosted its annual Fall Convention in downtown Chicago. This major event brought together thousands of Ace retailers and vendors, showcasing the ELEVATE³ Ace store model within a spectacular 10,000 sq. ft. space, with highlighted Power and BBQ brand destinations.

New enhancements introduced at the convention included a pilot “Sun & Shade” department offering premium sunglasses from brands like Costa, Native, and Oakley, alongside lifestyle apparel and other outdoor equipment. An upgraded lighting aisle was also unveiled, featuring adjustable white lighting in bulbs and fixtures, and an exclusive Ace Kohler faucet that reinforces Ace’s commitment to an exceptional in-store experience.

Future Plans

Ace Hardware is set to continue the evolution of the ELEVATE³ Ace format, with plans to retrofit additional stores backed by a staggering $1 billion investment. This initiative highlights the company’s desire to innovate, adapt to consumer needs, and solidify its role as a community staple.

About Ace Hardware

Ace Hardware has long been recognized as the largest hardware cooperative in the world, supporting over 8,700 locally owned and operated stores globally. With a dedication to providing the best products and services, Ace aims to remain a valuable asset to its communities through continued innovation. For more information, visit acehardware.com.