Business Buzz
Shore True Value Hardware is now Shore Ace Hardware — marking a new chapter for the third-generation family business.
We go through our daily lives not knowing the stories behind some of our favorite businesses in our communities. We don’t realize the blood, sweat and tears that go on to make them not only survive, but to thrive. Competition over the years has become more intense between not only local businesses, but now each and every one faces fierce online competitors. We don’t even know or meet the online competitors, but we know they are there every time Fedex or UPS delivers a package at our neighbors’ doors.
The consumers have a variety of choices where they can purchase their merchandise. The question is, what does a business have to do to differentiate themselves?
The owners of Shore Ace Hardware, formerly Shore True Value, have been separating themselves from the competition for over 60 years.
From the first day of business in 1963, proprietor and entrepreneur Sam Giunta started Shore True Value Hardware with one thought in mind: quality service. He wanted to make sure when customers came into the store, he and all of the employees would have the proper answers to the many questions about home repair and maintenance. This philosophy rings clear to this day.
Shore Hardware is a true family success story where the torch has been passed down three generations. Sam Guinta was fortunate to have a son, Paul, who was raised in the business, where he learned the original motto: “Provide the best service possible and you will have a customer for life.” Paul and his wife Alison assumed the reins back in the early 1980s. The Somers Point community came to expect the same courteous service that Sam provided.
The store services and products grew almost exponentially to the 10,000- square-foot building as it is today. Paul knew if the store was going to continue to grow, the product lines and services would have to expand; So, he did just that. They listened to their customers’ requests and expanded the inventory to include such items as paint mixing, top-of-the-line Weber and Traeger grills and accessories and one of South Jersey’s largest lawn and garden supplies.
However, they pride themselves on quality and knowledgeable employees who can solve any question — simple or complex — that customers generally cannot receive at the big box stores.
In 2005, Paul Jr. and his sister Alison Dannenhower, who were raised in the business and learned everything from nuts and bolts to running the business, knew it was time to step up and purchase the business.
Paul senior and his wife Alison also knew the time was right to transition the business over to the next generation of Guintas. Paul Jr. and Alison not only learned the business, but also they became deeply embedded and involved with the community, which helps to maintain and expand the bond with the customers.
The road was not always easy for Paul Jr. and Alison. They expanded their products and services in order to maintain and expand their customer base.
However, along the way they have faced challenges from a fire in June 2018 and the Covid-19 pandemic. Their loyal customers seemed to like the friendly environment with knowledgeable employees, who know their customers’ names and needs. It is paramount to have a team who reflects the core family values and goals.
After much thought and consideration, The Guintas recently made the decision to rebrand Shore True Value Hardware as Shore Ace Hardware.
“We are keeping the same fantastic team members. We will be conducting the change over the next couple of months with an expected completion in October of 2025. The inventory will be expanding. We will be offering online options, loyalty programs and national promotions,” Paul Jr. said.
Customers will still be able to find hard-to-find parts and quality merchandise for just about every household need.
So far, the transition from to Shore Ace Hardware has been seamless. Ace Hardware, like True Value, is deeply rooted in the communities they serve. The store will continue to be a vital resource for local residents, offering expert advice and support for all of the home improvement needs.
Stop in at 515 New Road, Somers Point to see the difference with even better tools, paint products and other items. See them on facebook shore ace hardware or on Instagram.
Remember to shop local, especially small businesses.
Rich Baehrle, of Berkshire Hathaway Fox and Roach, can be reached at 609-226-6680 or 609-641-0011. Email richardbaehrle@gmail.com or see www.getrichinrealestateSJ.com
