Owenhouse Ace Hardware
Bozeman, MT
Owenhouse Ace Hardware - West
Owenhouse Ace Hardware - Downtown
Owenhouse Ace Hardware has been a cornerstone of the Bozeman community since 1879, evolving from a frontier-era farm and supply store into a full-service, locally owned hardware destination. Originally serving early settlers with wagons, harnesses, and agricultural goods, the business grew alongside the town, eventually becoming known as Benepe–Owenhouse Hardware after E.J. Owenhouse joined in the late 1800s. Over the decades, it adapted to changing customer needs—expanding into home goods, adding delivery services, and building a reputation for hands-on, knowledgeable customer care.
Today, Owenhouse Ace Hardware blends its long-standing heritage with modern convenience as part of the Ace Hardware co-op, which it joined in 1964 to stay competitive with national chains. Still family-owned and operated for four generations, the business now operates two locations in Bozeman and offers not only a wide range of hardware and home improvement products, but also specialized services like equipment repair, paint matching, and even a full-service bike shop. With more than a century of continuous operation, Owenhouse remains defined by its commitment to service, community, and helping customers get the job done right.
Ongoing Retail Support & Reset Strategy
Both Owenhouse locations are high-volume stores that require consistent, strategic updates to maintain performance and customer engagement. Through an ongoing partnership, they utilize Arrowhead Retail Innovations’ subscription model to support Level 2 and Level 3 resets, as well as targeted department refreshes.
This approach ensures alignment with Ace Hardware’s biannual planogram updates while allowing for flexibility at the store level. Beyond execution, the focus is on keeping the sales floor dynamic—introducing refreshed displays, improving shopability, and creating an experience that encourages repeat visits.
An added benefit of this model is that it frees up in-store staff to remain focused on serving customers, rather than being pulled off the floor to manage reset projects.
The following projects highlight examples of this ongoing work in action.
Housewares Department Transformation
Before…
Scope of Work
This project centered on a full-scale reset of the Housewares department, requiring both strategic layout planning and comprehensive in-store execution.
The existing setup—configured in a maze-like format—created a congested shopping experience that limited visibility and made navigation difficult. The approach focused on opening up the space and establishing a more intuitive flow for customers.
The scope included fixture relocation, layout redesign, and complete aisle-by-aisle merchandising. Fixtures were repositioned into a clean, linear format with wider, more navigable aisles. Each section was carefully reset to improve sightlines, product accessibility, and overall shopability.
As with most large-scale department resets, ongoing adjustments were made during execution to account for product variation and real-time floor constraints, ensuring the final layout was both functional and visually consistent.
Completed in just over two weeks, the result is a streamlined, easy-to-shop department that enhances the customer experience while supporting stronger sales performance.
After…
Fireplace & Hearth Category Reset
The image shown reflects the completed project following the reset and merchandising updates.
Scope of Work
Owenhouse partnered with Arrowhead Retail Innovations to refresh and optimize their Fireplace and Hearth category to improve space productivity, product visibility, and overall shopability.
The project began with a provided planogram as a foundational guide; however, rather than executing it as-is, the approach focused on maximizing every inch of selling space. Traditional planograms often leave underutilized gaps, but in a high-performing retail environment, floor and wall space should actively drive sales—not simply display fixtures.
Adjustments were made to better align with the store’s physical footprint, including refining the layout from the original 12’ fireplace and 8’ hearth accessory allocation. The set was thoughtfully reworked to ensure a more cohesive flow between categories while maintaining clear product segmentation.
To further enhance performance, empty space within the set was eliminated by introducing additional facings of high-velocity products. This ensured stronger in-stock presence, improved visual impact, and increased opportunity for conversion.
The end result was a more efficient, sales-driven category that balances structure with flexibility—designed to support both customer experience and revenue growth.
Rope Category Refresh
Scope of Work
This project focused on condensing and refining the Rope category to create a more efficient and visually structured set.
The provided planogram was followed fairly closely as a baseline, while still allowing for necessary adjustments to accommodate the reduced footprint and updated assortment strategy. The category was condensed from 11’ to 8’, requiring a thoughtful reallocation of space and product flow.
Excess bulk rope was strategically closed out to support the transition and make room for a stronger mix of prepackaged rope, better aligned with current merchandising and customer expectations. This shift also helped improve consistency and simplify the shopping experience.
A key priority throughout the reset was eliminating unused pegboard and building out full coverage across the set to reduce gaps and improve visual completeness. Clean, consistent lines were maintained to bring structure and clarity to the category.
The result is a streamlined, easy-to-shop display that balances planogram integrity with practical in-store execution and improved product presentation.
Before
After
Tie Down Category Update
Before
Scope of Work
This project focused on updating and refining the Tie Down category to improve functionality, product flow, and overall shopability, while incorporating a range of new discovery items.
The planogram was used as a starting point and general guide, but adjustments were made throughout to better align with in-store performance and customer interaction. The updated assortment introduced several new discovery-driven products, requiring additional flexibility in layout and spacing.
A key issue identified in the original configuration was a waterfall fixture used for bungee straps at the top of the set. While visually intended for display, it created practical challenges in execution—hooked ends frequently caught on the fixture, making product difficult for customers to remove.
To improve usability, the waterfall fixture was eliminated and the assortment was re-merchandised into a more functional layout that maintained full product integrity while improving accessibility. Despite removing the fixture, all products were successfully accommodated within the set.
The result is a cleaner, more customer-friendly presentation that prioritizes ease of shopping while supporting a broader and more modern assortment.
After
Aisle Reconfiguration – Housewares Expansion
Scope of Work
This project focused on a strategic aisle reconfiguration to support the continued growth of the Housewares department at the West location.
As one of the store’s leading categories, Housewares required additional space to expand its assortment. To accommodate this, the existing cleaning aisle was relocated, freeing up a more prominent footprint for Housewares.
The scope included making targeted adjustments within the Hardware department to create space for a newly positioned cleaning aisle, including both sides of the run. Once relocated, the vacated area was reallocated to Housewares, allowing for a broader and more impactful product presentation.
The result is a more intentional use of floor space—supporting a high-performing department with room to grow, while maintaining logical category flow and overall store shopability.
The images shown reflect the updated layout following the aisle reconfiguration.
Door Mat Category Refresh
The image shown reflects the completed set following the category refresh.
Scope of Work
This project focused on refreshing and optimizing the Door Mat category to better integrate an expanded assortment of dropship items into the existing set.
The challenge was incorporating these additional SKUs into the planogram without compromising flow, clarity, or overall shopability. The layout was thoughtfully adjusted to accommodate the broader assortment while maintaining a cohesive and easy-to-navigate presentation for customers.
The result is a more organized, visually balanced category that supports product discovery and maximizes available space.
Weather Stripping Category Reset
Scope of Work
This project focused on resetting and downsizing the Weather Stripping category from a 12’ footprint to 8’, requiring a strategic approach to both space optimization and inventory management.
The reduction in space resulted in a significant amount of discontinued and clearance product. These items were systematically reviewed, clearly priced, and discounted to support sell-through while maintaining an organized and shopable presentation.
A key challenge within this category is that customers are often seeking highly specific solutions, making clearance strategies less straightforward than in other departments. To address this, an in-line exit strategy was implemented—allowing discounted product to remain within the set for a period of time prior to the reset, increasing visibility and improving the likelihood of sell-through.
This approach not only supported a smoother transition to the new 8’ layout but also minimized leftover inventory and preserved the integrity of the refreshed category.
The image shown reflects the completed set following the reset and clearance integration.
Tote Category Refresh
The image shown reflects the completed set following the reset and clearance integration.
Scope of Work
This project focused on refreshing and reorganizing the Tote category to improve visual consistency, accessibility, and overall shopability.
Due to an expanded assortment that exceeded standard planogram limitations, the category was merchandised without relying on a fixed planogram. Instead, the set was thoughtfully designed to accommodate the full range of products while maintaining a clean and cohesive presentation.
A structured approach using straight, intentional lines was implemented to create visual order across varying product sizes. While totes can be challenging to merchandise due to their inconsistent dimensions, careful placement ensured both balance and ease of navigation for customers.
Special consideration was given to product density to reduce the need for constant restocking. Sufficient inventory was worked into the set without compromising the overall aesthetic or accessibility. Although some larger items appear to be placed higher, the top shelf sits at approximately chest height, keeping products within a comfortable and safe reach for customers.
The result is a streamlined, functional display that effectively balances visual appeal with practical merchandising needs.
Rain Gutter & Accessories Reset
Before
Scope of Work
This project focused on organizing and optimizing the Rain Gutter and Accessories category to improve space utilization and overall shopability.
The reset began with a standard planogram as a baseline, followed by strategic adjustments to better align with the store’s inventory mix and physical space. Rather than adhering rigidly to the planogram, the set was refined to create a more practical and efficient layout.
Given the advantage of higher ceilings, vertical space was intentionally leveraged to house non-discovery, high-performing items. These linear products—while often awkward to merchandise—are lightweight and well-suited for higher placement, freeing up prime eye-level space for more browse-driven items.
The result is a well-structured, easy-to-shop category that maximizes both vertical and horizontal space while balancing functionality with a clean visual presentation.
After
Sprinkler & Hose Accessories Reset
Before
Scope of Work
This project focused on executing and preparing the Sprinkler and Hose Accessories category for a full assortment transition.
The reset followed the provided planogram closely, as several new items had not yet arrived at the time of execution. As a result, open space was intentionally left within the set to ensure accurate placement once all products are received. While this may present as gaps in the completed photo, it reflects a forward-planned layout rather than an incomplete set.
Leveraging extensive experience in the hardware industry, the space was proactively allocated to accommodate the full assortment, ensuring a smooth and efficient transition as inventory is replenished. Product adjacencies and flow were carefully considered to support both functionality and ease of shopping.
The result is a structured, planogram-aligned category that is fully prepared for incoming product, minimizing the need for rework and supporting long-term consistency.
After
Extension Cords & Surge Protectors Refresh
Before
Scope of Work
This project focused on reorganizing the Extension Cord and Surge Protector category to improve shopability, product flow, and visual consistency.
Rather than following the standard planogram, the set was redesigned to better align with how customers shop the category. The layout prioritizes intuitive product groupings and clear navigation, creating a more functional and customer-friendly experience.
The assortment included Owenhouse private-label extension cords, which were thoughtfully integrated into the set to ensure strong visibility and seamless placement alongside national brands. In addition, select non-discovery, high-velocity surge protector items were intentionally retained within prime space to support ongoing sales performance.
A strong emphasis was placed on maintaining clean, straight lines throughout the set—bringing structure and clarity to a category that can easily become visually cluttered.
The result is a streamlined, easy-to-shop display that balances brand integration, product performance, and overall visual impact.
After
The image shown reflects the completed set following the reset and clearance integration.
A similar approach was implemented for the Downtown location, adapted to a more condensed footprint. The set was strategically reduced by 4’ to accommodate the addition of timers, while maintaining overall flow, shopability, and product visibility.
Outdoor Thermometer Reset
The image shown reflects the completed set following the reset and clearance integration.
Scope of Work
This project focused on resetting and refining the Outdoor Thermometer category to improve coverage, visual consistency, and overall presentation.
The initial planogram served as a starting point; however, it resulted in excess visible pegboard, which can detract from the visual impact of the set. Adjustments were made throughout to better utilize space and create a more filled-in, cohesive appearance.
Due to the wide variation in packaging sizes and shapes within this category, the set required hands-on refinement during execution. Outdoor thermometers rarely fit perfectly into a planogram on the first pass, so multiple adjustments were made to ensure proper spacing, alignment, and visual balance.
The result is a more polished, fully merchandised display that minimizes empty space while maintaining a clean and organized presentation.
Flags & Mounting Accessories Refresh
The image shown reflects the completed set following the reset and clearance integration.
Scope of Work
This project focused on organizing and refining the Flags and Mounting Accessories category to create a more cohesive and visually complete presentation.
While the planogram provided a general framework, adjustments were necessary to account for inconsistencies within the assortment—particularly with items sourced from an outside vendor. These products did not always align seamlessly with standard spacing or packaging expectations, requiring a more flexible, hands-on approach during execution.
Careful attention was given to balancing product placement, improving flow between flags and their corresponding hardware, and minimizing visual gaps throughout the set. The goal was to create a display that feels intentional and easy to shop, despite the variability in product formats.
The result is a well-integrated category that brings together multiple product sources into a unified, clean, and functional presentation.
Paint Department Reset – Downtown Location
Scope of Work
This project focused on a rapid reset and reorganization of the Paint department at the Downtown location to improve layout, flow, and overall shopability.
The scope included the full reset of 104 four-foot gondola sections, completed in an accelerated three-day timeline. Rather than relocating fixtures, the work centered on adjusting shelving and re-merchandising each section to create a more structured and efficient layout.
Execution required a highly coordinated approach, supported by a full-time helper, to ensure speed without sacrificing accuracy or presentation. Each section was carefully reset to improve product accessibility, consistency, and overall visual clarity.
This project highlights the ability to execute large-scale resets quickly and efficiently, even within existing fixture constraints.
The images shown reflect the completed department following the reset.
Seasonal Set Execution – Christmas
Scope of Work
This project focuses on the annual setup and merchandising of the Christmas departments across both Owenhouse locations, requiring detailed planning, coordination, and efficient execution.
Preparation plays a key role in the success of these sets. Product is pre-sorted by category to streamline the merchandising process, and at the West location, fixtures are assembled in advance to support a faster, more organized install. At the Downtown location, the scope is more extensive, requiring the temporary teardown of the majority of the Lawn & Garden department to create space for the seasonal set.
Execution includes full category merchandising across lighting, light clips, electrical, and tree trimming, and greenery with a strategic shift away from lower-performing trinket items. Light sets are typically merchandised to planograms to ensure consistency and accuracy, while electrical, light clips, tree trimming, and greenery are dry set to allow for flexibility and a more tailored in-store presentation.
Following completion, backstock is organized to support efficient replenishment throughout the season, making it easier for store teams to locate and restock product as needed.
Through process improvements and streamlined execution, a project that previously required a full week now takes approximately 4–6 days to complete across both locations.
The images shown reflect the completed seasonal set following installation and merchandising.
Owenhouse Ace Hardware - Downtown
Owenhouse Ace Hardware - West
