Ace Ranks No. 4 on Entrepreneuer's Franchise 500
Ace Hardware has been ranked No. 4 on Entrepreneur magazine’s Franchise 500 list, moving up one spot in the annual ranking of the world’s top franchise systems.
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For the fifth consecutive year, Ace Hardware was also named the No. 1 franchise in the ‘Miscellaneous Retail Businesses’ category.
According to Ace officials, the recognition reflects Ace’s continued focus on supporting locally owned businesses, driving sustainable growth, and strengthening its brand through operational, marketing, and supply chain support.
In 2025, Ace surpassed its domestic expansion goals, opening 180 new stores across the U.S., further extending its presence in communities nationwide.
With more than 947 new store openings over the past five years, including conversions to Ace, the cooperative’s continued expansion reflects its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of customers and entrepreneurs alike.
By combining strong local ownership with a globally recognized brand, Ace remains a trusted partner for business owners and the communities they serve.
“We’re proud to be recognized once again among the top franchises in the country and honored to move up to No. 4 on this year’s Franchise 500 list,” said Andy Enright, senior vice president of Retail Strategy and Operations at Ace Hardware. “This recognition is a testament to the strength of our cooperative model and the dedication of our local owners and associates, who deliver helpful, reliable service in their communities every day. Continued growth across our store network reflects the enduring appeal of local ownership backed by a trusted national brand.”
The Franchise 500 ranking evaluates franchisors using more than 150 data points across five pillars: costs and fees, size and growth, franchisee support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability. The 500 franchises with the highest cumulative scores earn a place on the annual list, making inclusion a highly sought-after distinction across the industry.
"For 47 years, the Franchise 500 has been the gold standard for identifying franchise excellence. This year's ranking proves that the best brands don't just survive changing markets; they thrive in them," said Jason Feifer, Entrepreneur magazine's editor in chief. "These 500 companies represent some of the most reliable pathways to business ownership in America, each one vetted through our rigorous analysis of what actually drives franchisee success."
Ace Hardware wasn’t the only Ace brand recognized on the 2026 Franchise 500.
The No.1 ranking in the ‘Home Repairs/Handyman Services’ category and No. 259 overall was Ace Handyman Services, a subsidiary of Ace Hardware Corporation.
To view the full Franchise 500 ranking, visit entrepreneur.com/franchise500.
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