Jim Van Der Werf : ACE Hardware Stores ACE Hardware Stores: Partnership approach breath of fresh air for hardware retailer

As part of his various business ventures over the past 30 years, Jim Van Der Werf has had many interesting experiences working with commercial landlords.some good and some not so good. "Most of the time, I got the feeling that the landlords didn't really care about me and my business. They just saw me as another faceless tenant. That's why I have been so pleasantly surprised by my amazing experience working with Champion." Van Der Werf is the owner of ACE Hardware Stores, which opened a new location at the Camelback development in January 2007. "Ricky Lyons and the team at Champion have made me feel that our success is important to their success. They treat us like partners, not just as tenants. Everything they do demonstrates their commitment to the future of our company. They want to have a long-term and mutually beneficial relationship." Van Der Werf says that he is extremely pleased with the service and support he has received from the Champion team. "As we were getting ready to move into the store, they stood behind their promises 100 percent. When an issue came up, they dealt with it swiftly. If there was a delay, they were up front and did everything they could to get back on schedule. They have demonstrated the highest level of integrity I.ve ever experienced from a real estate developer." Looking forward, Van Der Werf is very confident about the success of his store at Camelback and about his relationship with Champion. "Since we opened, our store has met its financial targets. With its great location, we are confident that the store will continue to prosper. We are also confident about our on-going relationship with Champion. Even after we moved in, the team has been very enthusiastic and helpful. When we open up our next store, I hope it will once again be with Champion."