Ace Hardware — Attraction in Traverse City

Went in to Maxbaurer Ace Hardware on Front Street this morning to purchase two Weber grills. I had to have a key cut and decided to have it done before buying the grills. A young gentleman was very helpful saying he could cut me a key and walked me back to the key duplicating machine where he began the simple process. He stated that they don't guaranty that the newly cut duplicate key would work which I understood. When I asked why, an older tall employee that was standing at the counter abruptly interrupted stating exactly what the younger gentlemen said, saying "we do not guaranty the duplicate key will work". So I ask the older employee why wouldn't the key work? He said "we do not guaranty that the duplicate key will work" not answering my question and pointed to his statement written on a piece of paper taped to the counter. I responded with saying that the original key wasn't a transponder key as I truly was curious as to what would be the reasons the duplicate key might not work asking him if it could be due to the blank profile not matching exactly. He responded rudely and was argumentative stating that they do not guaranty the key will work, which I understood. At this point I asked the young gentleman for my original key back saying I was sorry but I'll just go somewhere else to have the duplicate key made, he's being a complete a** hole, I was just trying to carry on a friendly...

I have been relying on the Ace expert staff on front street since I moved to Traverse City 3 years ago . I sometimes feel like I spend more time at that store than at home ! It never cease to amaze me how attentive , knowledgable and consistent their service is . From purchases and renovation advices , I rely on the staff and have never been disappointed . And I can add that the friendly atmosphere is even conducive to light and humorous exchanges ! My last experience with Mike Peacock deserves mentioning ! I purchased 2 of 3 Ego products there , my lawnmower from Lowe’s . When my battery from the mower failed to charge , I went to Lowe’s who no longer carry that line and didn’t stand behind the warranty , Mike took it upon himself to contract his rep and did all the necessary paper work to get it replaced ! Amazing !

I have to give a special shout to Colin , young staff member , with whom I have dealt multiple times , from advice on purchases , to warranty issues , even acquiring discarded pallets ! He is a pro , always well informed, great listener , with the friendliest smile ! So rare to come across young staff of that caliber , knowledge and...

This afternoon I stopped in needing help with a wagon that has seen serious duty with my golden retriever puppy who has decided he would rather walk than ride. One of the screws came loose slightly bending the frame. Al, came to my rescue, finding a longer bolt with a nut and wrestling it back into perfect working order. I was charged a whopping grand total of $1.18 for the bolt and nut - the service was free! This was not an isolated incident either. They go out of their way to be helpful every single time. They are just the nicest people on the planet. The least I can do is give them a shout out and let them know that Al is...