Ace Hardware fills VP of merchandising role

Oak Brook, Illinois-based Ace Hardware Corp. appointed John Sommers, Jr. to the position of VP of merchandising, effective July 10.

Sommers, 52, is a 23-year veteran of The Home Depot and has held various roles in merchandising, store environment and new store development. He replaces Frank Carroll, who left Ace to take the CEO spot at Broan-NuTone in May.

In his most recent role, Sommers held the position of VP of merchandising for The Home Depot. He was directly responsible for the flooring division.

Prior to assuming responsibility for flooring, Mr. Sommers held roles throughout his career that gave him direct responsibility for plumbing, electrical and hardware. He has extensive experience in new store concepts and development as well as visual merchandising, signing/fixtures and reset implementation.

“We are excited to welcome John Sommers to the Ace team,” said John Surane, executive VP, merchandising, retail operations, business to business, and wholesale Hholdings. “John is a recognized expert in the industry with a proven track record.”

Sommers received an MBA from Emory University and holds a bachelor of science degree in business administration and marketing from Marquette University.