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Ace Hardware announced it has ranked sixth on the Franchise Times Top 400 list, an annual ranking that evaluates the largest U.S.-based franchise systems by global systemwide sales. Ace remains the highest-ranked hardware brand on the list.
Ace Hardware’s strong performance and continued growth helped secure its place among the world’s largest franchise systems. In 2025, Ace generated $24 billion in retail sales. Over the past five years, Ace continued expanding its global store network, opening more than 1,100 new stores worldwide. Ace ranked behind McDonald’s, 7-Eleven, KFC, Burger King and Chick-fil-A.
“Ace is proud to once again be recognized by Franchise Times as one of the largest franchise systems in the world and the only hardware brand in the top 10 on this respected list,” says Andy Schmitt, vice president of retail operations and new business at Ace Hardware. “This honor reflects the strength of our local store owners and their commitment to serving their communities with helpful service every day.”
While Ace shares similarities with traditional franchise systems, its structure is unique as a retailer-owned cooperative. Store owners are shareholders who benefit from annual profits distributed back to them as a patronage dividend. In 2025, Ace distributed $392 million in patronage dividends. Unlike traditional franchise models, Ace store owners pay no royalty or ongoing franchise fees.
