Elk Grove Ace Hardware offers quick, friendly service you won't find in the big box stores

Far to often when people in Elk Grove need to buy something or go out for dinner, they point their car in the direction of one of big box retailers or national restaurant chains that dot our landscape.

This is unfortunate as there are many fine local retailers and restaurants who can serve your needs as good as, or most often better than the big boys. Such is the case of the Elk Grove Ace Hardware on Elk Grove-Florin Rd.

I frequently find myself going to the Ace on weekends to make purchases needed to fulfill my 'honey-do' chores. Not only does shopping at Ace save me valuable time, the prices are competitive with the super behemoth orange and blue hardware stores.

On Sunday I took a couple of screens in for repair (I don't think orange or blue even offer these type services) and was told by the friendly clerk they would be done by Thursday. I was in and out in five minutes and grabbed a bag of hot popcorn to boot.

Much to my delight, the work was completed yesterday - two days early!

When I went to pick up the screens and take a picture of the storefront, I coincidentally met the store owner, Randy Lawrence, in the parking lot and exchanged pleasantries. It is unlikely one would ever encounter a manager of big orange or blue, much less top management, in one of their sprawling parking lots.

While the consumers of Elk Grove have many choices, let's not forget that we have several locally owned businesses offering competitive pricing and superior service like Elk Grove Ace. More importantly, let's support these independent business people, especially during the current economic downturn, who offer great personalized service you won't find at the big-box retailers.

Elk Grove Ace Hardware is located at 9661 Elk Grove-Florin Rd. They are open seven days a week. Call (916) 685-3982 for hours.