Hardware Retailing The Industry's Source for Insights and Information
Ace Hardware’s group purchasing program, SAVINGSource, is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year and approaching a major milestone: $100 million in collective savings since its launch in 2015, with projections to surpass that milestone by year-end.
“Reaching $100 million in savings is a testament to the strength of our partnerships and the impact we’ve made,” says Leigh Barbeau, director of indirect procurement and co-creator of SAVINGSource at Ace Hardware Corporation. “We’re proud to be a trusted ally in helping retailers protect their margins and reinvest in their businesses.”
SAVINGSource helps retailers reduce operating costs by offering pre-negotiated pricing with suppliers that were meticulously chosen through a competitive review process, says Barbeau.
“By reducing expenses on items such as technology, facility services and supplies, retailers can retain a larger portion of their revenue, ultimately preserving their margins without compromising quality or efficiency,” Barbeau says.
SAVINGSource consolidates supplier relationships for everyday essential goods and services, lowering costs, saving time and money and reducing risk through a network of pre-vetted partners.
“SAVINGSource’s mission is simple,” says Jason Haddad, manager of SAVINGSource at Ace Hardware Corporation. “From delivery vehicles and digital signage to office supplies and facility maintenance, the program partners with more than 50 suppliers that deliver real value through expert negotiation and tailored solutions.”
Because every store is different, SAVINGSource works closely with retailers to understand their specific challenges and goals and the team tailors SAVINGSource resources by actively listening to retailer feedback and incorporating it into the decision-making process, Barbeau says.
“Participant input plays a crucial role, alongside consultations with subject matter experts, to ensure the programs and supplier partnerships meet the unique needs of each store,” Barbeau says. “This collaborative approach helps us deliver solutions that are both relevant and impactful.”
To learn more, retailers can visit the external SAVINGSource website or visit the SAVINGSource page on Ace’s internal intranet site, AceNet, to explore available programs and see which suppliers are part of the network. They can also reach out directly to the SAVINGSource team for personalized support or to schedule a walkthrough of cost-saving opportunities.
“Ace SAVINGSource has saved me a lot of dollars over the years, and I have learned to check them first on any purchase,” says Jaret Gordon, owner & CEO of Gordon’s Ace Hardware. “They have already negotiated the best deal. I’ve purchased forklifts, phones, copy machines and much more. There is strength in numbers—they have buying power, and every time SAVINGSource has saved me money.”
