Nation’s Best expanded in Colorado through the acquisition of Hotchkiss-based Gambles Hardware. The acquisition adds a second Colorado location for Nation’s Best and represents the company’s 57th branch overall.

“When owner Kimberly Shay expressed an interest in selling her family’s hardware store so she could refocus her efforts on her other businesses in town, we stepped in to take a closer look at Gambles Hardware knowing that store could be a great fit within the Nation’s Best model,” Tina Green, regional vice president of operations for Nation’s Best’s west region, said. “She and her late husband built up a solid store that aimed to serve all of the community’s needs. The store is clean, welcoming, well-organized, and broad in its mix of diverse products across its 7,000 square feet of retail space.”

Founded in 1942, Gambles Hardware is known for its strong selection of plumber and electrical products, gardening, and paint products.

“Nation’s Best has no plans to slow down,” Robert Debs, who oversees acquisitions for Nation’s Best, said of the company’s acquisition plans for 2024. “With almost sixty stores now in operation under the Nation’s Best family of over thirty distinct brands, we have honed our winning formula for success. We are looking forward to continuing to demonstrate the value and relevance of independent home improvement across the country.”

Gambles Hardware will maintain operations under its existing brand name with key management personnel remaining in place. Nation’s Best will provide the strategic and financial support necessary to drive growth and profitability, according to the company.