The Greater Bridgman Chamber & Growth Alliance (BCGA) is pleased to announce that Ace Hardware will soon open a new location in the Greater Bridgman area. The store will be in Lake Charter Township at the corner of Shawnee and Gast Roads, occupying the former Rite Aid building in the same shopping center as Harding’s Family Friendly Market.
The CGA began collaborating with the building’s owner shortly after the property became vacant, actively identifying potential tenants who would bring value to the community. Among those outreach efforts was Ace Hardware which is an ideal fit for the site and a well-recognized brand serving customers across the region
Local entrepreneur Mathew (Chip) Borre, owner and operator of the Ace Hardware stores in St. Joseph, Stevensville, and Watervliet for the past 40 years expressed a strong interest in expanding to Bridgman. Recognizing the opportunity, Nancy Kiernan, Director of the Bridgman CGA, helped facilitate the connection, bringing the property owner and Borre together.
“We are excited to welcome Ace Hardware to the Greater Bridgman area,” said Kiernan. “This addition not only fills a key commercial space but brings a trusted business operator and a much-requested retailer into our community. We’re proud to have played a role in making this match.”
Borre shared his enthusiasm for the project, saying, “The Bridgman community has long been on our radar. We’ve heard from many customers who wanted the convenience of a local Ace in this area, and when this location became available, it felt like the perfect opportunity. We are thrilled to bring our friendly service and helpful expertise to Bridgman and look forward to serving our new neighbors.”
Chip’s son, Mat Borre will continue to be the General Manager of all four Ace Hardware locations. The Borre’s new Ace Hardware is expected to enhance local shopping convenience, support area homeowners and contractors, and contribute to continued economic growth in Bridgman, Lake Charter Township, and the surrounding region.
The Borre’s are looking forward to having an Ace Hardware in the Bridgman area and plan to contribute to the continued economic growth with in Bridgman community and the surrounding area. We hope to be open for business by the end of April 2026.
