www.SanTanSun.com
Business
June 2 - 15, 2007 23
Ace not typical hardware store
by Sharon Schnakenburg complete the look.
Home improvements can seem Once homeowners have the structural
overwhelming. The prospect of going to basics down, they can shop in Chandler Ace’s
one business to fi nd granite countertops, to in-store boutique and choose from decorative
another for sunscreens, then to yet another for accents such as Willow Tree statues, Primal
pergola or barbecue island options may make Elements designer soaps, lamps, plates,
the average person go nuts and bolt. However, fragranced candles and more.
Chandler Ace Hardware’s integrated business Vasquez, who along with Freeland worked
philosophy aims to solve the dilemma. for seven years at a Christmas accessories
“We thought that we could innovate the company, says service is integral to customer
Ace concept and make this place a one-stop experience.
STSN photo by Gordon Murray
shop, and offer things that typical Aces don’t “If you walk in the store, you’re going to
offer,” says Robert Vasquez of Gilbert, who
MADE IN THE SHADE: Sunscreens can drastically cool down a patio. Different colors are
available at Chandler Ace Hardware.
get greeted, you’re going to get taken care
started the business seven months ago with of, you’re going to be treated as a guest,” he
Arden Park resident Brian Freeland.
Chandler Ace Hardware recently started selling
explains. “You know a lot of that spirit of taking
Besides offering the hardware store mainstays that
adjustable-roof patio covers with remote control operation,
care of people is gone in so many different businesses. For
carved a name for Ace Hardware nationwide, the Chandler
too.
Chandler-Gilbert, we can have that hometown feel in our
store also sells and installs granite countertops. Customers
Vasquez claims his store is the only Ace in the U.S.
store.”
can choose from the store’s selection of about 100 varieties,
to have adjustable-top pergolas, which withstand 100
and Ace does the fabrication.
mph winds and are fully customizable. Chandler Ace
“Someone has to, like an artist, take this huge piece of
even provides a blueprint for HOA pre-approval when
granite rock and they have to cut it down to make it look
requested to do so by homeowners.
beautiful,” Vasquez explains.
Outdoor barbecue island
The store also offers decorative
creation is another custom service
yet energy-efficient custom
offered by the business, and
residential sunscreens with frames
Vasquez says his store is the only
in tan, champagne, white, mill
Ace nationwide to vend Capital and
(stainless steel) or bronze hues.
Viking grills.
SunTex screen fabric is available
Customers desiring a barbecue
STSN photo by Gordon Murray
in black, gray, brown, stucco and
island have several other options in
THERE’S MORE: A young shopper checks out toys at Chandler Ace
beige.
addition to a choice of grills. Hardware.
Throughout June, the store
“They can get a granite
honors SRP’s 20 percent off
countertop, they can get stacked
Chandler Ace Hardware is located at 4870 S. Gilbert Rd.
sunscreens coupons even if
STSN photo by Gordon Murray
stone around it, they can get a
in Chandler. Business hours are 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday
customers can’t physically locate ACE IN THE HOLE: Robert Vasquez of Gilbert is
pullout cooler, they can get a side
through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays and 8 a.m. to
a coupon.
co-owner of Chandler Ace Hardware.
burner, they can get a barbecue
6 p.m. Sundays. For information, call 480-802-2100.
“If you have a sunscreen over a window, you dramatically
light, they can get a three-drawer system,” he explains.
cut down the amount of heat that goes into your home,”
“We basically create an outdoor kitchen.”
Sharon Schnakenburg is a freelance reporter who can be
says Vasquez.
In addition, Ace will install a pool deck or fl agstone to
reached at Sharon@SanTanSun.com.
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