Menard’s

Menards is an independent, family-owned home improvement retailer based in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. The company began in 1960 when John Menard Jr. opened a small lumber and building materials business. Over time, Menards expanded its offerings to become a full-service home improvement destination, adding products such as appliances, hardware, flooring, paint, garden supplies, and groceries.

As of November 2025, Menards operates 335 stores across 15 states, with a particularly strong footprint throughout the Midwest. The company’s stores are found in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin, and Kentucky. Menards remains privately held and does not franchise, maintaining a consistent approach to store operations and customer experience.

In the last five years, Menards has continued to grow its presence by targeting suburban and exurban communities experiencing population gains and increased demand for home improvement goods. The retailer regularly evaluates both new construction and redevelopment opportunities, with several new stores planned for 2026 in Illinois, Ohio, and Michigan. This steady expansion reflects Menards’ ongoing commitment to serving both homeowners and professional contractors.

Menards is recognized for its large-format stores that serve as anchors in retail developments, drawing significant customer traffic and supporting surrounding businesses. Its stable ownership, established reputation, and history of successful store launches contribute to its credibility as a tenant in commercial real estate projects.