BUSINESS
DIY WINS AND FAILS
passionate associates in the store that use the products. We sell seasonings, sauces and wood chips, too, so many of them cook with the products so that they are experts on them. Barbecue and that whole outdoor living experience is popular in Maricopa. As the weather gets better, we grill every weekend and host events, which is a great opportunity to try a sauce or rub. What’s one thing you want customers to know about Ace Hardware? Obviously, there’s more choices today for our customers. The areas where we try to differentiate and make a difference really center around convenience, quality and service. Our format is low friction, easy in and out, manageable and close parking and customer- friendly layouts. We find our customers appreciate quality, so we’ve got those brands to back that up. We’re people-forward, people-first and problem-solvers who just want to help.
Failed project As a kid, when I tried a wiring project with a lamp, it
Like, maybe the dad is not as handy as he’d like to be. A project that stands out is a marshmallow shooter made with PVC pipe; it reminded me of Legos and was fun to lay it all out and put it together.
A lifelong DIY-er, Karsten has had his fair share of war stories, from helping parents with craft projects to a shocking experience.
ended up short- circuiting and I electrocuted myself. It was a bit of a shock, but I never made that mistake again.
Favorite project
Memorable DIY project assistance
I built a barn for working on cars. I’m “flying the colors” with vintage Ace sign décor.
I like helping parents help their kids with projects.
MARICOPA CAREGIVER CONFERENCE
What’s one lesson entrepreneurship taught you? Listen to the customer, for sure. We didn’t come into the business with any preconceived notions, but we truly ask customers what they’re looking for and how we can do a better job. That’s how we started the business and continue to do the
same thing today. I think that would apply to most businesses. Sounds cliché to say ‘listen to your customers’, but to me, that’s the heart of our business. This interview has been lightly edited for clarity and brevity.
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