A VP retires from Ace Hardware Corp.

Rick Whitson, VP-distribution, will retire from Ace after 37 years with the Oak Brook, Illinois-based company.

Rick has a long history of contributions in the Retail Support area. During his career, Rick directed the operational start-up of the La Crosse, Yakima (now Moxee) and Princeton Retail Support Centers (RSCs). Rick also ran each of these RSCs, in particular, the Princeton RSC, for many years.

Several of the RSC initiatives we have today — containerization, voice pick with scanning, RSC slotting software and the SAP implementation within the RSCs — were led by Rick. In addition, under Rick’s tenure as Vice President - Distribution, he led the opening of the Wilmer and West Jefferson Retail Support Centers. Theses RSCs were successfully opened within the same year — a first for Ace.

The effective date of the retirement is Dec. 31.



According to the co-op: “Rick is known for his steady hand, his deep knowledge of distribution processes, and for his passion for serving Ace retailers. Rick plans to spend his retirement enjoying his grandsons and continuing his volunteer efforts.”