Ace Hardware owner buys rival Lynden store

The Lynden location of True Value will soon operate as the city’s second Ace Hardware store. Brandon York, who owns both businesses, recently confirmed that plans are underway to rebrand the True Value site. He intends to replace the exterior signage at 119 17th St. as quickly as the permitting process allows.

This acquisition resolves a staffing issue that arose in late January. At that time, CHS northwest announced its plan to sell the Lynden True Value store. The announcement included a notification that the store’s employees would be laid off. In April, York purchased the store from CHS northwest. He retained all 11 workers who were on the payroll at the time of the sale.

York also hired the son of the former manager. He stated that retaining the existing staff was a key factor in his decision to buy the property. He noted that he has known some of the employees for years and was eager for them to join his team.

The purchase allows York to expand product categories that do not fit in the existing Ace Hardware store at 1736 Front St. He described his main motivation as enhancing the customer shopping experience. He said the new location will meet everyday and specialty needs locally, preventing residents from driving to outlying areas for specific items.

York outlined a distinct role for each store. The current Ace Hardware location will specialize in categories that support contractors. The rebranded True Value location will focus on do-it-yourself home improvement and other categories that require more representation in the community. He explained that this division allows the company to serve a wider range of customer needs.

York kept the True Value branding initially to allow time to evaluate the partnership. He said both True Value and Ace have strong corporate support. He decided that continuing his relationship with Ace would best serve the community. He noted that the company learned a lot during the transition period while managing two different corporate identities.

There is no official date set for the rebranding to be complete. York said the team is still transforming plans and space at both locations. He acknowledged that many customers have a strong attachment to the True Value brand. He stated that the store will do its best to meet their expectations going forward.

York emphasized the support from the local community. He described it as a blessing to live and work in Lynden. He said both locations are loved by the town. The team aims to keep people shopping locally by offering more products and services.