The World's Largest Retailer Owned Hardware Cooperative
Ace Hardware Corporation stands as the world's largest retailer-owned hardware cooperative, operating over 5,500 locally owned and operated stores across approximately 70 countries. Founded in 1924 and headquartered in Oak Brook, Illinois, Ace has built a century-long legacy as "the helpful place" for hardware and home improvement needs, ranking among the top 25 U.S. retailers with multi-billion dollar annual sales.
Unique Cooperative Business Model
Ace's distinctive approach serves thousands of independent hardware store owners, providing resources, inventory, and support through an expansive network of distribution centers across the U.S., with additional capabilities in Ningbo, China, and Santa Catarina, Mexico. This global reach combined with local community focus creates opportunities for professionals to gain experience in both wholesale and retail operations within the hardware and home improvement industry.
Values Driven Culture
At Ace, employees live by the W.E.L.I.G.H.T values: Winning, Excellence, Love, Integrity, Gratitude, Humility, and Teamwork. This distinctive corporate culture emphasizes gratitude, humility, and love-values fundamental to Ace's identity and commitment to employees, retailers, and communities worldwide. Team members work in a competitive, fast-paced, and collaborative atmosphere where every voice matters.
Comprehensive Benefits and Growth
- Competitive compensation with incentive opportunities averaging 122% payout
- 18 days immediate vacation plus up to 9 paid holidays annually
- Comprehensive health coverage including short-term disability protection
- Generous 401(k) with company contributions averaging 10.4% of eligible compensation
- Extensive development programs including on-site classes and tuition assistance
- Employee discounts on premium brands including Weber, Traeger, Yeti, and Craftsman
Safety First Environment
Ace Hardware prioritizes creating a safe, healthy, and injury-free workplace as their number one commitment. Safety champions promote productive workplaces through proper equipment operation, active participation in facility safety culture, and a shared responsibility for protecting every team member.
