United Hardware and Do it Best announce intent to merge

FORT WAYNE, IN and MAPLE GROVE, MN — In a historic move that reshapes the landscape of the home improvement industry, United Hardware and Do it Best announce that they intend to merge. This strategic merger creates one of the industry’s leading cooperatives, aimed at delivering unparalleled support to our member-owners. 

The intent to merge, which received unanimous approval from the boards of directors of both companies, brings together two industry leaders with a shared commitment to exceptional service, quality products, and a comprehensive range of programs designed to support the growth and success of the independent entrepreneur. 

“We are embarking on a significant milestone in our journey as a cooperative that will change our future for the good,” said United Hardware President & CEO Chad Ruth. “By aligning with a like-minded co-op, we’re better positioned to serve our members and help them win in the marketplace.”

“We believe deeply in the power of the co-op model. It’s about partnership, mutual growth, and shared success,” said Do it Best President & CEO Dan Starr. “United Hardware joining us is not just a merger. It’s a declaration of our belief in this model, a belief in partnering with our members to compete and win.”

The merger is expected to deliver significant benefits to member-owners, employees, and customers through enhanced scale, efficiency, and innovation. United Hardware shareholders will vote to make the merger official in the coming weeks. 

 

About United Hardware

Maple Grove, Minnesota-based United Hardware Distributing Co., home of the Hardware Hank brand, is a full-line wholesale hardware distributor providing distinctive brands, services, and capabilities to help our independent retailers build successful businesses and vibrant communities. United Hardware services retailers from its distribution center in Milbank, South Dakota, and delivers an extensive product line to more than 700 stores in the Midwest.

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About Do it Best

Based in Fort Wayne, IN, Do it Best is the only US-based, member-owned comprehensive and fully integrated hardware, lumber, and building materials buying cooperative in the home improvement industry. With annual sales of nearly $5 billion, Do it Best serves thousands of member-owned locations across the United States and in more than 50 other countries. For more information, visit doitbestonline.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.

For more information:

Taylor Feighner, Ferguson Advertising
260.428.1174
taylor@fai2.com