Ace Hardware gave a sneak peek of what is to come when the store opens its doors in Tullahoma in the near future – with the store to include a Benjamin Moore paint store, a pet supply store, a garden center and a gift shop along with its hardware portion.

Store owners Greg and Christa Yandell of Hendersonville invited civic leaders for lunch and a tour of the building which is still being converted from the former Office Max that was originally in the building located off Jackson next to Buffalo Wild Wings. Mr. Yandell pointed out that they had been building businesses for the past 20 years and they got into Ace Hardware about six years ago.

“We love the brand. We love that it’s local,” he told those on hand for the sneak peek even as workmen continued readying for the store opening. “We love being part of the community so Ace just fit with us as a family.”

Mr. Yandell pointed out that Tullahoma Ace is bigger than most Ace Hardware stores and will house more than just hardware. One special store within the store will be the Gifted Cricket where customers can buy all types of gifts. There will also be a paint store.

“This is a full-fledged paint store within an Ace Hardware,” he explained. “If there’s anything you want from Benjamin Moore, we will have it or we can get it.”

Along with a huge Ace Hardware section there will be a big BBQ section. “We are big into BBQ,” he said, adding there will be a knife section in the store offering one of the largest knife selections in the area.

Mrs. Yandell noted that they love hearing suggestions. “If you have something you think would do great in our Ace Hardware we are always open to listen.”

The opening date is being targeted for April 17.