Ace Hardware participates in IBM-based training sessions

Ace Hardware recently participated in information technology training sessions in partnership with IBM.

Ace worked with IBM’s Global Technology Services business unit to design and perform training services for Ace’s inventory management application in several of the co-op’s stores. Through the program, local IBM trainers went to retail locations and helped train retailers on how to use the inventory management system.

Brian Mayer, Ace’s IT deployment manager, said the IBM program had the goal of helping Ace retailers “get up to speed on their inventory management system with minimal disruption to their business.”

The inventory management deal between Ace Hardware and IBM was signed in December 2006.

“Ace Hardware was proactive in their approach to employee training which will serve them well in the future,” said John Visentin, vp-end user services for IBM.

Ace, headquartered in Oak Brook, Ill., has been an IBM client in other aspects of the business, including maintenance and technical support services, since 2004.