The recently opened Ace Hardware in Price, Utah (adjacent to the Lin’s), is already having a significant impact on the local community, proving to be a much-needed addition to the area. The new store, which features a 2,500-square-foot garden center, a 1,200-gallon external propane tank, and store aisles full of grills, hardware, home improvement, lawn and garden, and tools, has quickly become a go-to destination for residents.
“The grand opening was a huge success,” said Brendon Noble, a center store operations specialist who played a pivotal role in the store’s launch. “We had live demos, delicious food from Traeger and Green Egg, and even a local radio station broadcasting live. The mayor of Price attended, and the community really showed up—our first week brought in over $70,000 in sales. The response has been phenomenal.” Kim Owen, lead marketing specialist, agreed. “The excitement the Price community had at the grand opening was palpable, and a couple months later, I don’t think that excitement has dissipated.
The success of the Price location demonstrates the close collaboration between the Ace Hardware marketing and project teams, as well as the dedication of ARO Vice President Greg Welling and Marketing Specialist Kim Owen. Brendon emphasized the importance of tailoring the store’s offerings to meet the specific needs of the Price community. “The people here have unique needs because of their rural surroundings—they want outdoor equipment, hunting, fishing, and sporting goods. We’ve really focused on listening to what they want, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to see how the community has embraced us.”
For Price residents, the arrival of Ace Hardware means having a hardware store within a short drive, by providing a full-service store within just 5 to 10 miles of most residents. Before this, locals had to travel over 30 miles to access the nearest Ace Hardware.
From a business perspective, the new store represents a significant growth opportunity for both AFS and Ace Hardware. “It’s not just about retail,” Brendon explained. “We’re also meeting the needs of local businesses, from supplying cleaning products to the Holiday Inn Express to helping a concrete business with their supply needs. This store is a win-win for everyone involved.”
Reflecting on the experience, Brendon shared, “I’ve spent a lot of time in Price over the past few months, getting to know the people and the community. It’s been incredibly rewarding. The community is tight-knit, and they know each other well. It’s a beautiful place and it’s been very cool to be a part of this project.”
The success of the Price location mirrors Ace Hardware’s broader growth, with 130 new stores opening nationwide, allowing the brand to compete effectively with larger retailers. As Ace Hardware continues to expand, the Price location stands as a prime example of how a well-executed launch can benefit both the company and the community.