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Falls hardware store to get new name and owner

NEWTON FALLS — The local Ace Hardware store will have a new operator when family-owned E&H Hardware Group expands into Trumbull County early next year.

E&H Hardware Group is in the process of purchasing the Newton Falls business at 165 E. Broad St. The official changeover to E&H Ace Hardware is expected to take place Jan. 9, said E&H spokesman Christopher Buehler.

The Wooster-based company has locations in Middlefield and Garrettsville, but the transaction marks its first move into Trumbull County.

“We’re excited. This is great for us,” Buehler said. “We’re growing and it’s exciting to be moving into Trumbull County.”

Buehler said the 14 people now working at the Newton Falls Ace Hardware store will be given the option to stay. The company is also considering hiring additional staff as needed, he said.

Newton Falls Ace Hardware, originally called Fair Price Center, was founded in 1973 by owner Richard Kolovich and his brothers, John and Eugene. Kolovich bought the business outright in 1977. He said after 43 successful years, he is looking forward to enjoying more time with his family and new puppy.

However, he intends to continue operating his other two businesses, Falls Car Wash and RLK Enterprises.

“I sincerely appreciate the many years of support from the countless customers of Newton Falls and its surrounding area. The store’s success would not have been possible without the loyal employees that stood by my side,”  Kolovich said.

Buehler said E&H will lease the store from Kolovich. He said several departments will be refreshed with updated product selections and brighter lighting. However, E&H Ace Hardware will continue to offer a wide selection of  products that have consistently been available to customers.

Ace Hardware’s free “Ace Rewards” loyalty program will be available to customers, he said. Additionally, in-store pickup will be offered for those customers who prefer shopping online.

The store will close 7 p.m. Jan. 6 and reopen 8 a.m. Jan. 9 to complete the transfer over the weekend. Individuals with existing house accounts are encouraged to complete a new application by Jan. 6 so the information can be entered into the new computer system and a smooth transition to E&H Ace Hardware can be facilitated.

E&H Family Group, parent company of E&H Hardware Group and Buehler’s Fresh Foods, is wholly owned by the Buehler family of Wooster. The organization operates 13 Buehler’s Fresh Foods supermarkets in northern Ohio and 19 hardware stores under the E&H Ace Hardware name including several locations in the Canton area.

“We are excited to be entering the Newton Falls community in early 2017 and look forward to providing a hardware destination where customers can count on receiving trusted advice from our knowledgeable employees,” said Scott Buehler, president / COO, E&H Hardware Group.

vshank@tribtoday.com

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