History of True Value
True Value Company is an American wholesaler and cooperative of independently owned hardware stores. It traces its roots back to 1948 when John Cotter founded Cotter & Company, a cooperative to help independent hardware retailers compete with larger chains. In 1962, Cotter & Company acquired the True Value trademark from Harlan Kirsch, merging it with its existing operations. Over the decades, True Value expanded its product offerings and services, becoming a trusted brand in the hardware retail industry.
In 2018, True Value transitioned from a member-owned cooperative to a privately held company after selling a majority stake to ACON Investments. This shift allowed independent retailers to maintain their branding while benefiting from improved supply chain efficiencies and enhanced services. Today, True Value continues to support thousands of independent hardware stores worldwide, providing a wide range of products, including tools, paint, home improvement supplies, and seasonal goods.