Forks Outfitters and Ace Hardware has been recognized for its community service. A presentation of the association’s Community Service Award was on May 7, 2025 during a surprise visit to the store.

Owner Bruce Paul is a fourth-generation grocer whose great grandfather was a meat cutter in the store. Today, Forks Outfitter has become a lifeline for the town and surrounding community, located close to the Olympic National Park and just miles away from Pacific Ocean beaches.  

“I cannot underscore how fortunate this community is to have someone like Bruce Paul involved not only as an independent grocer, but as a local leader,” said Tammie Hetrick, president and CEO of the Washington Food Industry Association. “Forks Outfitters and Ace Hardware provides the people of Forks and its surrounding communities with access to essential food and groceries. They are a lifeline to all who live and visit here, and we are grateful for all you do.”

Paul and his staff are deeply involved in community activities and charitable giving, whether its supporting youth activities, scholarships and school events (including the Forks Senior Class BBQ), the town’s July Fourth parade, programs for prisoners at Clallam Bay, and the local food bank. The store is also a hub for law enforcement and other first responders, who often meet there for coffee.

“Bruce and his employees make personal connections with their customers and know the locals on a first-name basis,” added Hetrick. “Independent grocers like Bruce Paul and Forks Outfitters are the lifeblood of our industry. They serve a vital role not only in providing access to fresh food and groceries, but also in the health and well-being of the greater community they serve.”

WFIA Community Service Award winners are nominated by fellow independent grocers from around the state.