Zimmerman Trail Ace Hardware Shopping Guide
Why You Should Visit
- Exceptional Customer Service (Sometimes): You’ll find incredibly helpful and knowledgeable staff in certain departments. One shopper received outstanding assistance finding plumbing supplies, with the associate going above and beyond to ensure the right products were selected. Another shopper received excellent painting advice and product recommendations. However, be aware that this positive experience isn’t guaranteed.
- Wide Selection: The location boasts a large variety of products, including plumbing supplies, painting accessories, and even a surprising clothing boutique – something not found at other hardware stores. They carry Blue Wilderness dog food, though pricing should be carefully checked. They also have Forstner bits, though stock availability may vary.
- Convenient Amenities: This Ace Hardware offers added perks such as free popcorn and an in-store post office. A coffee or slushie option is also mentioned.
- Local Support: It’s a locally owned business, so shopping here directly supports your community.
- Knowledgeable Staff (In Some Areas): Certain associates demonstrate extensive product knowledge, particularly in plumbing and painting.
Why You Might Consider Alternatives
- Inconsistent Customer Service: Be aware that some shoppers have reported significantly negative experiences with staff. Several employees were observed ignoring customers, and one shopper encountered an unhelpful and argumentative associate. Interactions can range from exceptionally helpful to completely unhelpful depending on the individual and department.
- Pricing Concerns: The store is often more expensive than competitors like Home Depot and Lowe’s. One shopper noted paying a significantly higher price for Blue Wilderness dog food than at Walmart, even after a change in bag size. It’s crucial to price-check items before purchase. They have also been observed advertising items they may not have in stock.
- Stock Availability Issues: Items may be locked up or unavailable. One shopper had trouble obtaining a forstner bit because it was locked up and staff was unavailable to unlock it.
- Travel Distance and Cost: For some customers, the location’s distance can increase the overall cost of shopping due to gas expenses. One shopper mentioned a 26-28 mile round trip costing $3.00/gallon in gas.