Do it Best, headquartered in Fort Wayne, Ind., moved its corporate office to the Electric Works site in December 2022.

Two of the nation’s largest hardware distributors join forces in an historic merger

Do it Best and United Hardware will become one company, and the merger is expected to benefit member-owners, employees and customers through enhanced scale, efficiency and innovation, according to a press release issued by the two companies.

This merger will change the landscape of the home improvement industry, creating one of the industry’s biggest cooperatives.

“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.”

Do it Best President and CEO Dan Starr (right) with Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb.

United Hardware President and CEO Chad Ruth.

Details of the merger, including how the merger will affect staffing and financial considerations, haven’t been released.

The boards of directors of both companies gave unanimous approval for the merger. United Hardware shareholders will vote to make the merger official in the coming weeks.

“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.”

United Hardware, based in Maple Grove, Minn., is the distributor for 700 stores in 16 states from as far east as Ohio to as far west as Idaho.

Continue Reading in the March 2024 Issue of Hardware Connection