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United Hardware Distributing Co. announced Chad Ruth will serve in the role of President and CEO.
Ruth became interim President and CEO of the co-op on February 16, 2023, after Doug Audette resigned from his position. The Board of Directors is excited for Ruth to step into this permanent role. Ruth’s deep understanding of the business and many years of prior experience in the industry, along with skillful leadership and service are key factors in this decision.
For the past two years, Ruth served as vice president of merchandising and retail operations. He has also served as vice president of sales, vice president of sales and marketing, vice president of retail growth initiatives, director of power programs and division manager of United Garden & Home. Before joining United Hardware, he was a Hardware Hank retailer and the president and co-owner of Lyndale Gardens & Hardware, a retail garden hardware store in Richfield, Minnesota, for nine years.
As president and CEO, Ruth will be responsible for overseeing the overall strategy and operations of the company. He will continue to work closely with United Hardware’s leadership team and employees to drive growth and ensure the company continues to provide products and exceptional service to its members.
“The future is bright for United Hardware,” says Ruth.
United Hardware, home of Hardware Hank, is a full-line wholesale hardware distributor providing distinctive products, services and capabilities to help independent retailers build successful businesses and vibrant communities. Headquartered in Plymouth, Minnesota, United Hardware services retailers from its 440,000 square foot distribution center in Milbank, South Dakota and delivers to more than 1,200 stores in the upper Midwest.
