In many small towns, the hardware store has always been more than a place that sells tools, paint or a box of screws — the place to go when something breaks and advice is needed from someone you trust.

Roy Cade Carter, Sr. established that tradition in Tavares in 1964 when he bought into a hardware store while working as a hardware wholesaler in Central Florida.

What started as one store grew into a multi-generation family business known throughout the region as Carter’s Ace Hardware.

“Every small town needs a hardware store,” Cade says. “Really, what we do is we help people fix problems.”

Siblings Roy Cade “Cade” Carter III, Zach Carter and Brittany Britton lead the company started by their grandfather and expanded by their father, Roy Cade “Cadie” Carter, Jr.

The family business has grown to 11 locations across Central Florida, including historic stores like Mount Dora Hardware, a business founded in 1915. While the stores have evolved with online ordering, rapid pickup services and modern inventory systems, the company’s focus remains rooted in customer service and community connection.

Carter’s Ace Hardware stores have consistently ranked among Ace Hardware’s top-performing locations nationwide, earning Visionary, Platinum and Pinnacle recognition — designations reserved for top-tier stores within the Ace network.

The family legacy carries both pride and responsibility. That mindset continues to shape the company today, where helping customers, and supporting the communities around them, remains at the center of the business.

“It’s an honor to be able to carry on what my grandfather started and build it and grow it,” Cade says. “Not many businesses make it into the third generation or even the fourth generation. We’ve been blessed to be where we are.”

 
By the numbers in 1964
● Gallon of paint was $2
● Lawn mower cost $60
● Most popular car debut: Ford Mustang