Hardware Hank: Empowering Independent Retailers in the Heartland

Founded in 1945 in Plymouth, Minnesota, Hardware Hank is a well-established hardware retail franchise that operates under the umbrella of United Hardware Distributing Company.

Headquartered in Maple Grove, Minnesota, United Hardware evolved into a dealer-owned cooperative in 1957, allowing independent hardware store owners to benefit from shared resources while retaining operational independence.

The Hardware Hank franchise began offering membership agreements in 1954. These agreements allow retailers to purchase inventory through United Hardware on a cost-plus basis and receive year-end rebates.

Hardware Hank stores offer a wide range of products, including hand and power tools, electrical and plumbing supplies, home improvement materials, and lawn and garden equipment. Their diverse inventory caters to homeowners, DIYers, and professional contractors alike.

What sets Hardware Hank apart is its cooperative model, which supports independently owned and operated stores with centralized purchasing power, marketing programs, and access to more than 55,000 products.

Training

Hardware Hank provides essential training and support to ensure franchisees are equipped to run their stores effectively. Here are the core training offerings by the franchisor:

1. Onboarding Training Program
   Franchisees are not mandated to attend a specific training program; however, they are expected to maintain the confidentiality of proprietary materials provided by United Hardware. This training support generally includes familiarization with business operations and access to resources like catalogs and printed materials.
2. Voluntary Training and Support
   While not compulsory, United provides ongoing access to assistance and guidance in areas such as store setup, operations, and merchandising. Franchisees can leverage this support at their discretion to enhance their business performance.
3. Trademark Licensing Training Guidance
   Franchisees granted licenses to use trademarks like Hardware Hank® receive specific guidance regarding branding and product placement. This ensures consistency across stores using United’s private label merchandise.

Territory Protection

Hardware Hank does not offer exclusive territory protection to its franchisees. The membership is granted for a specific location, but United reserves the right to operate or grant additional memberships for stores that may compete with your location.

This includes the ability to sell products under United's trademarks or through other channels such as the Internet, catalog, or direct marketing. Additionally, United may supply hardware and merchandise to non-members, including competing retailers like Trustworthy Hardware and Golden Rule Lumber Centers.

These provisions mean that franchisees may face direct competition from other United-affiliated or independent businesses, even within their immediate area. The franchisor retains broad rights to distribute products and authorize stores without territorial limitations.