Costello’s Ace Hardware Implements ELEVATE³ Ace Store Format at Several Locations

In August, Ace Hardware marked one year since it unveiled its experiential store format, ELEVATE³ Ace, which reimagines the traditional hardware store by creating immersive brand experiences in four key areas: paint, power, backyard and barbecue and home preservation.

Since the program rolled out in August 2024, more than 130 ELEVATE³ Ace stores have been completed so far. These stores are reporting an increase of 12% in sales and 10% in gross profit dollars compared to non-implementing stores. Looking at specific categories, ELEVATE³ Ace stores have seen sales increase 25% in power, 22% in barbecue, 6% in backyard, 6% in paint and 8% in home preservation.

Costello’s Ace Hardware operates 62 stores in six states—New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Delaware and Virginia—and has plans to add four additional ground-up stores in 2026, all of which will feature the ELEVATE³ Ace store format. On top of that, at least three existing locations are slated to undergo ELEVATE³ Ace remodels in 2026.

“The new concept creates an exciting customer experience by showcasing Ace’s dominant brand assortment, most notably in grilling, outdoor power equipment and power tools,” says Joey Costello, director of strategic partnerships for Costello’s Ace Hardware. “ELEVATE³ Ace highlights the brands that consumers are searching for, connecting the in-store and online digital experience seamlessly.”

Although it is too early to measure sales results in the Costello’s locations, Costello says they are hearing positive feedback from customers, who have noticed and appreciate the changes. Costello’s location in Abington, Pennsylvania, which will open in early spring 2026, will include the ELEVATE³ Ace format.

“With only 12,000 square feet to work with, we are getting creative to ensure that our customers experience all our best brands while still offering the essentials you’d expect from a hardware store,” Costellos says.

Costello’s mission is to engage and delight DIY and professional customers with service, convenience, quality and heart, Costello says, and ELEVATE³ Ace delivers the best assortment of products that are displayed in a way that heightens the senses.

“At just 12,000 square feet, size does not dictate our ambition,” Costello says. “We designed this store to bring the biggest and best brands in the industry together under one roof, delivering a more elevated and brand immersive experience while still meeting the core hardware needs the community relies on.”