HFG Acquires Kabelin Ace Hardware in Indiana
Houchens Food Group (HFG) has agreed to purchase Kabelin Ace Hardware, a local, family-owned hardware store that has served Northwest Indiana for more than 100 years.
All employees will be retained in the transition, and Kabelin’s will continue to operate under the same name, leadership, and local management across all eight locations.
“While we’re proud of the business our family has built, it has become increasingly difficult to operate as a small independent retailer in this day and age,” said Mackenzie Kabelin Watkins, President of Kabelin Ace Hardware. “We knew we wanted to continue the Kabelin legacy, but we wanted to do it from a position of strength while also giving back to our employees. By partnering with Houchens, we believe we’re securing the future of our company while also ensuring the longevity of our stores and serving the people that matter most – our employees and our communities.”
Mackenzie Kabelin Watkins will continue leading the Kabelin Ace division of HFG as Director of Operations and will focus on strategic growth of the division. Joe Wardman, a third-generation hardware retailer with more than 25 years of experience, whose father and grandfather also worked alongside the Kabelin family, will continue to serve as Regional Operational Specialist within the company helping drive day-to-day interactions with customers.
The Kabelin Ace Hardware locations include:
- 727 W Michigan St. New Carlisle, Indiana
- 2309 E Michigan St. Michigan, Indiana
- 432 St. John Rd. Michigan, Indiana
- 410 Indiana St. Walkerton, Indiana
- 12820 Adams Rd. Granger, Indiana
- 52295 In-933 South Bend, Indiana
- 605 E Lincolnway La Porte, Indiana
Houchens Food Group operates more than 40 Ace Hardware stores across the country along with more than 400 grocery, convenience, and quick service restaurant locations. All employees under the Kabelin banner will have the opportunity to participate in the Houchens ESOP once meeting the plan’s age and service requirements.
“What makes Kabelin special is how much they care about their customers, their people, and their communities,” said Tracy Worley, Vice President of Houchens Food Group. “That spirit fits perfectly with who we are. We’re excited to welcome the Kabelin team into our employee-owned family and continue serving Northern Indiana.”
Kabelin Ace Hardware will keep its name, local management, and the same community focus across all eight current locations and will use this opportunity to open new stores in adjacent markets. Customers will still see the same friendly faces, helpful service, and hometown values that have made Kabelin a trusted part of Northwest Indiana for over a century.
“We’re proud to welcome Kabelin Ace Hardware into the HFG family and to become part of the communities they’ve served with such dedication,” said Greg Rush, President of Houchens Food Group. “Kabelin has built an outstanding reputation for quality, service, and hometown care which are values that align perfectly with our mission. As an employee-owned company, we believe in empowering local teams to continue that legacy while providing the resources and support to help our business grow and thrive.”
About Kabelin Ace Hardware
Founded in 1912, Kabelin Ace Hardware has been a staple in Northwest Indiana for over 100 years, known for expert advice, friendly service, and community commitment. With eight locations and 150 employees, Kabelin Ace remains dedicated to being “the helpful place.”
