The Ace Hardware Spring Convention of 2025 unfolded from March 4 to 6 in the historical city of San Antonio, Texas, bringing a festive holiday spirit back to the event for the first time in five years. This year’s focus was on holiday decorations, a vital category for sales in the fourth quarter. Over 11,200 participants, including a record number of retailers, connected with thousands of vendors. Significant discussions revolved around improvements in the supply chain and a pledge to bolster traditional stores. Chairman Steve Burggraf took pride in Ace’s century-long milestones, while Rick DiMaio, Executive Chief Supply Chain Officer, shared insights into advancements in capacity, automation, and technology aimed at better-supporting retailers. A standout feature was the rollout of an automated storage system across various locations to enhance operational efficiency.
In a pivotal general session, Ace’s president and CEO John Venhuizen addressed the hurdles that retail giants face today, highlighting Ace Hardware’s distinctive combination of global influence and local independence as essential for thriving. He stressed the importance of evolving with consumer trends, leveraging e-commerce, and honing in on four key priorities: Elevate3 Ace, the Famous For Four model (covering paint, power tools, outdoor living, and home maintenance), and striving for Pinnacle Performance status. Venhuizen pointed out that Ace’s definition of success lies in solving community issues and providing service rather than merely focusing on sales figures.
During the convention, Chairman Steve Burggraf acknowledged Ace’s centenary accomplishments. Rick DiMaio elaborated on the company’s enhancements in capacity and technology, notably the introduction of The Shuttle, an automated storage and retrieval system. DiMaio emphasized the necessity of ongoing investment in operations to guarantee prompt and intact deliveries. Ace executives, SVP of Merchandising Brian Wiborg, and SVP Chief Marketing Officer Kim Lefko addressed retailer inquiries about merchandising and marketing strategies. Wiborg noted that Ace is forging exclusive partnerships with popular brands, reporting a remarkable 12% sales boost in stores testing the new Elevate3 Ace program. Lefko highlighted the effectiveness of Ace’s digital marketing initiatives, revealing a 15% rise in online sales and a 30% increase in store visits driven by digital outreach. Furthermore, Ace unveiled Ace YardRx, a subscription service tailored for customized yard care aimed at customers who have not recently bought lawn and garden products, with 72% of Ace Rewards members fitting this profile.
Ace Hardware is also enhancing its delivery options through its website and app, targeting 500 app downloads per Pinnacle store each year, as users tend to spend more. The company is shifting towards digital circular advertisements. The recent acquisition of True Value by Do it Best opens avenues for Ace retailers to gain market share and strengthen their negotiation leverage. With its size, Ace can negotiate better pricing with vendors, and retailers were reassured at the convention about stable pricing despite tariff worries. Attendees were encouraged to seize special offers and engage with fellow peers, highlighting the value of learning and team-building throughout the event.
About Ace Hardware
Ace Hardware is the largest hardware cooperative in the world, serving more than 8,900 locally owned and operated stores and providing the best products, services, and operating methods to over 5,900 Ace retail stores in approximately 60 countries. Ace Hardware’s family of brands includes Ace Hardware, Emery Jensen Distribution (EJD), and independent retailers worldwide. Headquartered in Oak Brook, Ill., Ace operates an expansive network of U.S. distribution centers, along with international capabilities in Ningbo, China, and Cuautitlán Izcalli, Mexico. Since 1924, Ace has been a part of local communities, known as the place with the helpful hardware folks. For more information, visit acehardware.com or newsroom.acehardware.com.
