2016 Best Hardware Store: Ace Hardware

The family behind Griggs Department Store and Ace Hardware have very strong ties to the Tri-Cities. Griggs was first opened in 1938 by Mr. and Mrs. Charles G. Grigg in a small store in Pasco, where they sold furniture, appliances and general merchandise. After a few expansions, Griggs became the largest locally owned and independent retailer in the Northwest. In 1969, Griggs began their affiliation with Ace Hardware.

There are four store locations: two in Richland, one in Kennewick and one in Pasco. The Richland Ace Hardware and Sporting Goods on George Washington Way, which opened in 2005, was one of the most successful openings in Ace Hardware history.

Then in 2007, the Ace Hardware on Keene Road opened with 22,000 square feet of retail space and also broke Ace Hardware opening records.

Charlie Grigg, vice president of Griggs and local Ace Hardware locations, said accessibility and selection is what contributes to the success of the stores.

“The convenience of being able to get in and get what you need and get on with your day is really important,” he said. “We have what you need when you need it, and you won’t be wandering aimlessly around the aisles like in other big department stores.”

And it’s not just general hardware equipment you will find at Ace, as they offer a range of different products.

“We have sporting goods, gardening supplies and much more,” Grigg said. “It really is a one-stop shop.”

1. Ace Hardware

Multiple Mid-Columbia locations

acetricities.com

Four in a row winner - 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016

2. Home Depot

3910 W. 27th Ave., Kennewick, 509-582-6697

2855 Duportail St., Richland, 509-627-0111

homedepot.com

3. Lowes

1020 N. Colorado St., Kennewick, 509-736-1451

4520 N. Road 68, Pasco, 509-546-7600

lowes.com

This story was originally published May 12, 2016 at 6:33 PM.