Beaufort Ace Home Center
Looking back, Beaufort Ace Home Center is truly the fulfillment of a dream I had for many years. And its location in the old Huntley Building Supply could not have been more perfect. When I was twenty-one and starting out with my first construction business, Mr. Huntley gave me credit to buy materials without which I would never have gotten Thomas Simpson Home Building and Improvements off the ground. Five years later, I incorporated the business, and changed the company name to Thomas Simpson Construction Inc. Many years later, Mrs. Huntley approached me about purchasing the Huntley property; I knew it was time for my dream of owning a Hardware store to come true.
I chose to become a member of the ACE Hardware Cooperative which is the largest retailer-owned hardware cooperative in the industry. Ace Hardware began as a small chain of stores in 1924 and has grown to include more than 5,000 stores in 50 states and more than 70 countries.
As part of a cooperative, every Ace Hardware store is independently owned. From neighborhood hardware stores, to lumberyards and super-size home centers, each Ace Hardware is unique and tailored to meet the needs of its local community. Being in the construction business, I knew what contractors needed, but it has been an enjoyable experience learning what the DIY’ers need. I’m most proud that our female customers have had the biggest effect on the current design and layout. Thank you, ladies, for your support.
In 1998 I hired Otto Daly as our first store manager. With his leadership Beaufort ACE became a reality. We started with a completely renovated store of 7500 square feet of retail space, a lumber yard, and a garden center. With the support of the Beaufort community and a wonderful staff, we enlarged the store in 2014 to include an additional 3000 square feet of retail space. Then in 2020 we completed our third renovation which created a total 18.000 plus square feet of retail space, a brand new 10,000 square foot lumber warehouse and our garden center. And hidden from view is a 10,000 square feet of warehouse for back stock so we can keep our shelves full. We continue to add products and services so that we, at Beaufort Ace, can truly be your “Helpful Hardware Store”! But in reality we are Problem Solvers. Every customer has a different problem that requires a different what-cha-ma-call-it!!!
It is with such gratitude that I thank our the many staff members that have worked with Beaufort Ace and the lovely customers that have supported us. Together I hope we can always be the go-to place for all your Hardware and Home needs.
Thomas Simpson
Owner, Beaufort Ace Home Center
Tommy@thomassimpsonconstruction.com
