The hardware space continues to be a hotbed of acquisition activity. The latest acquisition is Costello’s Ace Hardware of Deer Park, NY has acquired a family-owned group of 11 stores.

It’s the largest acquisition in Costello’s 52-year history, and an important one for their footprint. It strengthens their presence in the Mid-Atlantic region and brings their store count up to 62 across six states.

They’ve announced the acquisition of Rommel’s Ace Home Centers, which have been serving their local communities for more that 40 years.

For Costello’s, growth is not just about adding stores. It is about building a team that makes us stronger, more adaptive, and capable of taking on the future. We are proud to continue guiding the Rommel brand, which for decades has been synonymous with attentive, expert service, time-saving convenience, and quality products from premium brands, all delivered by teams with huge hearts for serving their communities.

Michael Costello, CEO of Costello’s Ace Hardware

After the acquisition, the Rommel’s Ace Home Centers name will be retained. They’ll also be retaining the 170 Rommel’s employees, which brings the total number of employees for Costello’s to 1,250.

The acquired Ace stores are located across the following areas.

• Delaware – Dover and Selbyville
• Virginia – Chincoteague and Exmore
• Maryland – Ocean City, Severna Park, Salisbury, Cambridge, Stevensville, Perry Hall, and Rock Hall

Welcoming the Rommel’s team into the Costello’s family is something I’m very proud of. It is more than an expansion. It is about uniting two strong teams with the same love for people and service. Together, we will continue growing in a way that strengthens our communities and builds on what matters most.

Jaime Maloney, President of Costello’s Ace Hardware

Costello’s Ace Hardware is one of the largest family-owned Ace Hardware groups in the country. Their customer-focused approach and family values are the main reasons that Rommel’s wanted to work with them.

Dave Rommel and I are thrilled that our stores are now part of the Costello’s organization. Rommel’s has always been about people, our employees, our customers, and our communities. I am confident that Costello’s Ace Hardware will carry our legacy forward with the same family values and customer-first approach that have made Rommel’s successful for more than 40 years. Thank you to our loyal customers and dedicated employees for your trust and support. It has truly been an honor to be part of your lives.

Michael Cottingham, CEO of Rommel’s Ace Home Centers