Ace Hardware in Emily: A Shopper’s Guide
Why You Should Visit
- Extensive Selection: You’ll find an incredibly wide variety of products, exceeding what you’d expect from a typical hardware store. The store has expanded significantly, offering everything from plumbing and electrical supplies to landscaping needs and even a surprisingly large garden center.
- Exceptional Garden Center: The garden center is a highlight, boasting high-quality plants (perennials, annuals, vegetables) at reasonable prices, especially during spring and summer.
- Unparalleled Customer Service: Shoppers can expect consistently friendly and knowledgeable staff. Employees are often described as highly accommodating, going above and beyond to assist customers and ensure satisfaction. They’re also quick to offer solutions to even the most unusual problems.
- Convenient Location & Speedy Service: Even with ongoing remodeling, the store maintains business as usual. Many shoppers report finding what they need quickly, sometimes completing their shopping in under five minutes thanks to efficient staff assistance.
- Added Perks: You’ll find a free popcorn machine available for a tasty treat while shopping.
- Competitive Pricing (with caveats): While prices are sometimes higher than big-box stores in Brainerd, the convenience and service often justify the cost for local residents.
- Repair Services: The staff offers repair services; one review details a storm door window repair for just $13.
Why You Might Consider Alternatives
- Pricing: Be aware that prices may be higher than at other larger hardware stores in the Brainerd area. This has been described as “up north pricing.”
- Inconsistent Service: While generally excellent, customer service can be inconsistent. There have been isolated instances of staff being engrossed in personal conversations, requiring customers to repeatedly interrupt for assistance.
- Phone Service: The phone system may be unreliable. One shopper reported being hung up on multiple times after attempting to inquire about product pricing.
- Hours of Operation: The store’s hours might not extend into the evening, which could be inconvenient for some shoppers.
