13 frequently asked questions answered with data from the 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document.
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The total initial investment to open a Ace Hardware franchise ranges from $604K to $2.0M (2025 FDD). This includes the franchise fee, equipment, build-out, inventory, and working capital needed before opening.
View full investment analysisThe initial franchise fee for Ace Hardware is $5K (2025 FDD). This one-time fee is paid to the franchisor when signing the franchise agreement and covers the right to use the brand, systems, and initial training.
View full investment analysisData sourced from the Ace Hardware 2025 Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). Always review the most current FDD and consult with a franchise attorney before making investment decisions.
No, Ace Hardware does not require franchisees to have dedicated real estate (2025 FDD). This can significantly reduce startup costs and ongoing overhead.
View full investment analysisThe total ongoing fee rate for a Ace Hardware franchise is approximately 2.0% of gross sales (2025 FDD). This includes the royalty fee, a 2.0% marketing/advertising fund contribution, a $315.25/month technology fee, and other recurring charges.
View full fees analysisAce Hardware has been involved in 3 litigation cases over the past 3 years (2025 FDD). There are no class action lawsuits pending.
View full litigation analysisNo, the Ace Hardware franchisor has no bankruptcy filings in their disclosure history (2025 FDD).
View full litigation analysisAce Hardware offers non-exclusive territory rights to its franchisees (2025 FDD). The franchise agreement does not include encroachment protection. Online sales rights are shared between the franchisor and franchisee.
View full territory analysisAce Hardware currently operates 5,144 locations (2025 FDD) (4,885 franchised, 259 company-owned). The system grew by 3.0% over the past year. The 3-year compound annual growth rate is 2.7%.
View full growth analysisThe 1-year franchisee turnover rate for Ace Hardware is 1.3% (2025 FDD). This includes closures, terminations, non-renewals, and transfers. A lower turnover rate generally indicates higher franchisee satisfaction and system stability.
View full growth analysisAce Hardware's post-termination non-compete clause lasts 1 year after termination or expiration (2025 FDD).
View full legal analysisYes, Ace Hardware's franchise agreement requires mandatory arbitration for dispute resolution (2025 FDD).
View full legal analysisAce Hardware provides 163 hours of initial training (2025 FDD). Ongoing field support is provided on a as-needed basis.
View full support analysisYes, Ace Hardware provides site selection assistance to help franchisees find the right location (2025 FDD). The franchisor also provides technology support and systems.
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