Ace Hardware
Ace Hardware is the world’s largest retailer-owned hardware cooperative dedicated to supporting local, independent hardware stores globally. Headquartered in Oak Brook, Illinois, the company operates over 8,700 stores worldwide. Committed to serving communities with quality products and personalized service, Ace Hardware continually invests in innovation and infrastructure to enhance its distribution capabilities and operational efficiency. A notable milestone in its development is the opening of its state-of-the-art Retail Support Center in Kansas City, Missouri, in 2025. This facility spans over 1.5 million square feet, incorporating advanced automation technology and sustainability practices to better support its network of stores across the central United States and uphold its mission to empower local retailers.
News Summary
Ace Hardware inaugurated its new Retail Support Center in Kansas City, Missouri, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Spanning over 1.5 million square feet, the center enhances distribution capabilities for independent retailers. The facility will create over 350 jobs and features advanced automation technology aligned with sustainability goals. Ace Hardware’s commitment to local businesses is further underscored by this strategic investment, recognized with a Kansas City Business Journal Capstone Award.
Kansas City Celebrates New Ace Hardware Retail Support Center
Ace Hardware held a grand opening ceremony for its new Retail Support Center (RSC) in Kansas City, Missouri, on July 25, 2025. The facility, which spans over 1.5 million square feet, was officially inaugurated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. This strategic investment highlights Ace Hardware’s commitment to supporting its network of independent retailers.
Enhanced Distribution Capabilities
The new RSC, located along Interstate 29 and adjacent to Kansas City International Airport, provides immediate access to major highway and air freight networks. This prime location enables Ace Hardware to enhance its distribution capabilities, allowing for quicker and more reliable delivery of products to thousands of locally owned stores across the central United States. The facility’s size is nearly twice that of the average Ace distribution center, which is expected to significantly improve operations.
Job Creation and Economic Impact
The construction of the new support center has already had a positive impact on the local economy, providing around 100 jobs during the building phase. Once fully operational, the RSC is projected to generate over 350 new jobs in the community, further bolstering the local job market.
Technological Advancements and Sustainability Goals
The facility incorporates advanced automation technology and efficiency systems designed to streamline operations. It aligns with Ace Hardware’s long-term sustainability efforts, emphasizing reduced environmental impact throughout its operations. This commitment to sustainability not only enhances operational efficacy but also reflects the company’s values towards environmentally responsible business practices.
Acknowledgment and Recognition
The new Ace Hardware Retail Support Center has received acclaim for its innovation, winning a 2025 Kansas City Business Journal Capstone Award as the only winner in the industrial category. This recognition underlines the facility’s significance and the innovative approaches embodied within its design and operation.
Ace Hardware’s Ongoing Commitment
John Venhuizen, president and CEO of Ace Hardware, noted that the new facility is a testament to hard work, purpose, and teamwork among the organization. The RSC will join a robust network of over a dozen distribution centers across the country, specifically designed to support the independent retail model that Ace advocates.
About Ace Hardware
Ace Hardware is recognized as the world’s largest retailer-owned hardware cooperative, serving over 8,700 locally owned and operated stores globally. Headquartered in Oak Brook, Illinois, Ace Hardware continues to play a prominent role in the hardware retail landscape, emphasizing its commitment to local businesses and communities.
The launch of this Retail Support Center marks a significant milestone in Ace Hardware’s mission to enhance service and support to independent retailers, reflecting the company’s growth and dedication to the hardware industry.
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Additional Resources
- Home Page News: Ace Opens Kansas City Retail Support Center
- Wikipedia: Ace Hardware
- Hardware Retailing: Ace Hardware Opens New RSC in Kansas City
- Google Search: Ace Hardware Kansas City
- PR Newswire: Ace Hardware Celebrates Grand Opening in Kansas City
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Distribution Center
- Connect CRE: Federal Realty Buys Kansas City Retail Plaza
- Google News: Ace Hardware New Retail Support Center
Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.
