What's the application fee for? Is it refunded if I don't qualify?
The application fee covers our processing expenses only and will not be collected until a formal application for membership is submitted. Please keep in mind that this will not happen until you've had a chance to fully review the Ace opportunity and work with our New Business staff. Once submitted, application fees are non-refundable.
In a nutshell, why is Ace a better investment than other brands?
The short answer is we have superior brand recognition, a proven business model, unparalleled support, and an exclusive incentive package, which helps you to prepare for ownership and drives down your total investment costs by nearly 20 percent.
The Ace hardware brand has been around for 80 years. According to The Gallup Organization (2006), Ace "The Helpful Place" is the most recognized slogan in the home improvement industry. And this is an industry that is growing. Studies indicate that home-improvement sales will increase 5.7 percent from 2005 through 2010 (source: Hardware Retailing Dec. 2006). Consumers will turn to the brand they know and trust. Ace Hardware store owners also have the advantage of our extensive training program, proven computer and distribution systems, and the combined buying-power of more than 4,800 locations.
May I obtain the funds to open an Ace Hardware store from a relative, friend or associate?
Do I need to actually work in my store(s)?
At Ace Hardware, we want you to work according to your strengths. Traditionally, our store owners enjoy helping people and solving problems for the neighborhood "do-it-yourselfers." However, some of our owners prefer working in the "back office." Some own a chain of stores and don't regulate their time to a specific location. Regardless of where our store owners spend their days, however, they all have a common responsibility to be ambassadors of the well-respected Ace Hardware brand.
What are the next steps?
1. Learn all you can about Ace Hardware
2. Complete our free, no-obligation confidential qualification form
3. A regionally based field member of our Business Development team will contact you.
4. When we've mutually decided Ace Hardware is the right business for you, an application for membership will be completed.
5. Begin the process of opening your store.
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What We Offer
