She Started a Niche Business in Her Basement with $10,000. Now It Does $113 Million in Sales: ‘Took Off Like a Rocket.’
Ace Handyman Services grows from 119 to 383 territories post-Ace Hardware acquisition.
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Ace Handyman Services, formerly known as Handyman Matters, has significantly expanded from 119 territories to 383 territories after its acquisition by Ace Hardware in 2019. The company reported total sales of over $113 million, showcasing robust growth strategies and customer service enhancements that contributed to their success.
Why It Matters
This expansion may compress available territories for new franchisees, suggesting potential competition for prospective operators in home services. The increase in unit count also highlights a successful operational model, which could impact future franchise valuations.
Ace Handyman Services, originally established by Colette and Andy Bell in 1998, has seen remarkable growth since its inception. The company was founded in Denver, Colorado, to fill a void in the handyman market for small home projects that larger contractors often overlooked. The Bells initially operated the business under the name Handyman Matters before successfully franchising it in 2001.
After connecting with Ace Hardware in 2018, which acquired Handyman Matters in 2019, the Bells shifted their focus within the expanding Ace Handyman Services. Andy is currently the CEO, while Colette serves as the Vice President of Franchise Development, a role she has embraced since the acquisition. Under their leadership, the company has grown from 119 territories in 2019 to an impressive 383 territories by April 2023. This expansion indicates a strong commitment to growth and signifies the health of the brand within the handyman service market.
For fiscal year 2025, Ace Handyman Services reported over $113 million in sales, demonstrating a 12% growth from the previous fiscal year. The brand’s strategic focus on delivering high-quality customer service—including punctuality, professionalism, and follow-up—has been a critical component of its success. Colette emphasizes the significance of their approach: “if you’re not early, you’re late,” highlighting their operational philosophy that prioritizes customer satisfaction and attention to detail.
