Fact-checked by Grok 2 weeks ago

Marc's

Marc's Stores is a drugstore and grocery chain headquartered in , specializing in affordable groceries, pharmaceuticals, health and beauty products, and closeout merchandise. Founded in 1979 by Marc Glassman, the company began as a single unpretentious drugstore in , quickly attracting cost-conscious shoppers with its low prices and wide selection. As of 2025, Marc's operates 61 stores across northern and central , including regions like , Akron, Canton, Youngstown, and Columbus, remaining a locally owned and operated business under Glassman's leadership. The chain's emphasizes everyday low pricing on fresh produce, meats, dairy, and household essentials, alongside services such as prescription fulfillment and management (MTM). Marc's distinguishes itself through closeout sections featuring discounted , toys, housewares, and seasonal items sourced from auctions and overstock, allowing customers to find unique deals without compromising on quality groceries or health needs. Over the decades, the company has expanded from its drugstore roots into a hybrid grocery retailer, adapting to local markets while maintaining a commitment to community involvement, including donations to animal charities via its Doggie Rewards Program and partnerships for food drives. Marc Glassman, the founder and chairman, has overseen steady growth, with the chain now serving as a key player in Ohio's landscape, known for its no-frills and focus on value-driven savings. Despite economic challenges, Marc's continues to prioritize fresh, high-quality products from local growers and responsive supply chains, ensuring accessibility for families across its service areas.

Corporate profile

Ownership and leadership

Marc Glassman founded Marc's in 1979 by opening a single drugstore in , marking the beginning of what would become a regional retail chain. As a native, Glassman drew on his experience in the retail sector to establish a model focused on low prices and broad accessibility for everyday consumers. Glassman has served as the sole owner, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of Marc's since its inception, maintaining direct control over the company's direction and operations. The company operates as a privately held entity under Marc Glassman Inc., with no public shareholders and limited disclosure of internal board structures, reflecting its family-owned status. This structure has allowed Glassman to guide strategic decisions without external investor pressures. In February 2025, Glassman expanded his business interests beyond by becoming the largest in the Restaurant Management Group (CRMG), which acquired several local eateries including Jack's Deli and Eat at Joe's. This move represents a diversification into restaurant management, with CRMG operating 11 locations in as of May 2025 under Glassman's significant influence, with plans to add at least five more that year.

Locations and operations

Marc's operates approximately 61 stores across northern and central , primarily in the metropolitan areas of , Akron, , Youngstown, and . The chain maintains a regional focus, serving value-conscious consumers in these urban and suburban communities without expanding beyond the state. The stores follow a hybrid model that integrates grocery, , and general merchandise offerings within large, warehouse-style spaces typically averaging 40,000 to 50,000 square feet. This format emphasizes layouts with well-lighted, logically planned aisles to facilitate efficient shopping, except in specialized areas like prescription drugs and . Key in-store services include a for fresh , cakes, and pastries, as well as a section featuring cold cuts and prepared foods. Headquartered in , Marc's stores generally operate from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. through and 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Sundays, with hours typically shorter at 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. weekdays and reduced on weekends. The company, owned by Marc Glassman, supports these operations through a high-volume, low-markup strategy centered on name-brand products and closeout deals. Notable operational events include the 2020 opening of a new 54,000-square-foot store at 3112 Avenue NW in , which replaced an older location and introduced an updated design while retaining popular closeout sections. In contrast, the chain closed its store in Oak Creek Plaza in February 2023 due to underperformance, resulting in 44 layoffs and highlighting challenges in select markets.

Historical development

Origins and early years

Marc Glassman's early career in the discount drugstore industry provided the foundation for Marc's, where he gained experience as a manager at Bernie Shulman's chain of stores, which had launched its first location in , in the 1970s. Following Shulman's death in 1976, Glassman acquired the chain's operations in 1983, setting the stage for future integration and rebranding efforts. In 1979, Glassman founded Marc's by opening its first store in , at the Southland Shopping Center, positioning it as an unpretentious discount drugstore designed to attract cost-conscious consumers seeking affordable health, beauty, and general merchandise. The young chain faced a significant setback in October 1980 when a fire originating in the adjacent J.C. Penney severely damaged the original Middleburg Heights location. Marc Glassman, Inc., doing business as Marc's, subsequently filed a against J.C. Penney Company, Inc., and related parties to recover damages from the incident. The store was promptly rebuilt in a larger adjacent space and reopened by early 1981, allowing operations to resume without prolonged interruption. During the early 1980s, Glassman expanded by incorporating the acquired Shulman's stores into the Marc's network, rebranding them progressively to unify the brand. By the end of 1992, all former Shulman's locations had transitioned to the Marc's name, establishing the chain's distinctive identity across Cleveland's suburbs and laying the groundwork for further development.

Expansion and growth

In the 2000s and 2010s, Marc's significantly scaled its operations, growing to nearly 61 stores across northern and central by establishing new locations in key markets including Akron, , Youngstown, and . This period marked a strategic push into underserved areas, with the chain emphasizing its discount model to attract value-oriented shoppers amid increasing competition from larger retailers. A notable milestone came in August 2018 with the opening of the store, which became the company's 59th location in and featured an expanded focus on closeout merchandise alongside groceries. Expansion continued into the early , exemplified by the , 2020, grand opening of a new 54,000-square-foot store in at 3112 Avenue, which replaced an older site and launched just as the began impacting retail operations nationwide. However, not all ventures proved sustainable; the store closed permanently on February 5, 2023, due to underperformance and low sales, resulting in 44 layoffs. In September 2025, pharmacies at the Akron (470 Howe Avenue) and Lakewood (14861 Detroit Avenue) stores closed permanently, with prescriptions transferred to nearby locations. Despite such setbacks, Marc's maintained nearly 61 stores as of 2025, supported by a centered on shorter markups and high-volume sales to keep prices competitive. This approach allowed the chain to hold its ground against national discount giants like and by prioritizing accessible, everyday essentials in regional markets.

Products and services

Grocery and general merchandise

Marc's offers a wide selection of grocery items, emphasizing affordability and everyday essentials. The fresh produce department features a large assortment of vegetables, fruits, nuts, and herbs, sourced through the chain's own facility to ensure quality and freshness. Meat and poultry selections include fresh cuts, while the dairy aisle stocks staples such as butter and cream cheese, often under private-label brands like Everyday Essentials. The bakery provides in-house baked goods, complemented by a deli counter specializing in cut-to-order luncheon meats and cheeses. Frozen foods, snacks like chips and candy, and pantry staples such as canned goods and beverages round out the offerings, with a focus on name-brand and discount items to support budget-conscious shopping. In addition to groceries, Marc's general merchandise departments provide variety for household needs. Housewares include cleaning supplies, air fresheners, and bath items, while pet supplies cover grooming products, flea protection, and accessories. The stores stock , children's , and home decor items, often through closeout sections that feature discounted apparel, , cookware, and . Seasonal merchandise rotates to include holiday decorations, party supplies, garden items, pool , and summer gear, allowing customers to find timely deals year-round. Marc's sourcing strategy prioritizes cost efficiency and regional ties, utilizing private-label products like Everyday Essentials for competitive pricing on staples. Produce and meat are supported by local suppliers and the chain's dedicated facility, enhancing freshness for locations. Pricing remains a core strength, with the lowest rates in the area achieved through and closeout deals. Promotions are facilitated via weekly ads highlighting hot deals and digital coupons redeemable at checkout by entering a phone number, enabling further savings on groceries and merchandise. Unique in-store features enhance the shopping experience, including a dedicated floral offering plants and fresh flowers for arrangements. Select superstore formats incorporate hot food sections with prepared items like party trays and deli selections, integrating convenience with the discount model. These elements complement broader services, such as -linked groceries for basic wellness needs.

Pharmacy and health offerings

Marc's pharmacies offer full-service prescription fulfillment, including online refills, transfers from other pharmacies, and generic medications available in 30- and 90-day supplies to promote affordability. These services extend to pet prescriptions, with licensed pharmacists providing guidance on usage and alternatives. services are available daily at Marc's pharmacies, covering vaccines such as flu, , , and , administered by trained staff to support preventive . Health screenings and consultations include medication therapy management (MTM) programs, where pharmacists review patient medications to optimize therapy, resolve issues, and educate on proper use. Marc's pharmacies also accept major plans, serving as a preferred provider for and Medicare Advantage and Plans in , which enables lower copays and for eligible members. Nearly all Marc's locations integrate a pharmacy department staffed by licensed professionals, allowing customers to combine prescription needs with everyday shopping while emphasizing cost savings through generic options and discount programs. In June 2025, Marc's partnered with NationsBenefits to expand access to over-the-counter medications and services, facilitating food-as-medicine initiatives for benefit card users seeking nutritious groceries and health essentials. The and beauty sections in Marc's stores feature a wide selection of over-the-counter medications, , , vitamins, supplements, and baby care items, with consultations available for personalized recommendations. These aisles include categories for diet and nutrition, shaving and grooming, dental hygiene, and bath and body products, often incorporating closeout deals to offer branded items at reduced prices. During the store expansions, Marc's enhanced these wellness and beauty offerings in larger superstore formats to attract a broader base focused on affordable solutions.

Business and media

Financial performance and employment

As a , Marc's (operated by Marc Glassman, Inc.) discloses limited financial information publicly, with growth primarily driven by store expansions and its pricing model that emphasizes cost efficiencies. In , the company's annual revenue was estimated at $1.53 billion, reflecting a 13% increase from $1.35 billion in 2020, attributed to expanded grocery and offerings across its locations. For 2024, revenue was estimated at $1.915 billion. This revenue figure underscores the scale of its operations as a regional chain, though detailed breakdowns remain unavailable due to its private status. Marc's employed approximately 3,000 workers as of early 2021, with the majority in part-time and positions to support flexible store operations. The company emphasizes local hiring within , drawing from the regional labor pool to maintain community ties and in its discount model. The 2023 closure of the store impacted headcount, aligning with adjustments in expansion strategies. The business maintains a low-overhead model, minimizing expenditures by relying on word-of-mouth recommendations and cost-effective weekly circulars rather than broad campaigns. No significant or large-scale external investments have been publicly reported, allowing focus on internal efficiencies like and streamlined store layouts. In 2025, Glassman's involvement in the Cleveland Restaurant Management Group, which acquired several eateries including Jack's Deli, introduced diversification into food service, potentially enhancing revenue streams through complementary operations without disrupting core finances.

Media coverage and public perception

Marc's maintains a notably low media profile, with CEO Marc Glassman rarely engaging with the press, resulting in coverage limited primarily to local business announcements rather than in-depth features. This approach has kept the chain out of national spotlight, with most reporting confined to outlets like and the focusing on operational updates. Notable media mentions have centered on store expansions and closures, such as the March 2020 opening of a 54,000-square-foot location in , which received coverage from local outlets highlighting its role in filling retail gaps in Stark County. Similarly, the 2023 permanent closure of the store was reported by WDTN and the , attributing it to lease expiration without further company commentary. In 2025, media outlets like and Cleveland Scene covered Glassman's purchase of local restaurants through the Cleveland Restaurant Management Group, framing it as a diversification beyond groceries. Public perception positions Marc's as a budget-friendly, locally owned alternative to national chains like or , particularly in northeastern and central communities where it fosters loyalty through affordable pricing on groceries and closeouts. Customer reviews on reflect this mixed view, with store averages typically ranging from 2.4 to 3.3 stars across locations, praising low prices and variety in discount items while criticizing occasional stock shortages and disorganized aisles. Despite these critiques, the chain enjoys strong regional support, often described in local forums as a "NE Ohio staple" for value-driven shopping. The company has faced minor controversies, primarily through customer complaints filed with the regarding pricing discrepancies, such as register errors overcharging on advertised deals reported in late , though Marc's has not issued public responses to these issues. Its rating remains low (F) due to patterns of unaddressed complaints, but no major scandals or widespread legal actions have emerged.

References

  1. [1]
    Marc's | Marc’s - Where it all began - Learn About Marc's
    ### Summary of Marc's Founding, Ownership, Leadership, and Early Involvement
  2. [2]
    Marc's | Marc's Store & Pharmacy Fresh Savings Deals
    ### Summary of Marc's
  3. [3]
    Marc's aims for low prices | Drug Store News
    Apr 25, 2011 · “We went to one customs auction a while ago and bought some artifacts,” said company founder Marc Glassman in a recent YouTube video. “Then we ...
  4. [4]
    https://drugstorenews.com/pharmacy/marcs-aims-low-prices
  5. [5]
    Marc Glassman, Inc. Company Profile | Cleveland, Ohio
    Owner and chairman Marc Glassman founded the company in Middleburg Heights, Ohio, in 1979. Read Less. Key Principal: Marc Glassman
  6. [6]
    Marc Glassman - Chairman at Marc's | LinkedIn
    Chairman at Marc's · Experience: Marc's · Location: Cleveland · 147 connections on LinkedIn. View Marc Glassman's profile on LinkedIn, a professional ...
  7. [7]
    Cleveland restaurant group gives Northeast Ohio eateries new life
    Feb 13, 2025 · The Cleveland Restaurant Management Group, co-owned by Marc's Grocery CEO Marc Glassman, has purchased local restaurants like Jack's Deli and Eat at Joe's.
  8. [8]
    Marc Glassman's Cleveland Restaurant Management Group has 16 ...
    May 12, 2025 · At the helm is Marc Glassman, the largest investor in CRMG, but best known as the founder and CEO of 61 Marc's stores throughout the Cleveland, ...
  9. [9]
    Canton's newest 54,000-square-foot Marc's store opens to the public
    Mar 4, 2020 · At 54,000 square feet, the store offers a new design, but still offers the close-out section customers have come to expect and love. The new ...Missing: format size
  10. [10]
    Marc's grocery store in Kettering to feature closeout merchandise
    Aug 2, 2018 · The 50,000 square-foot Marc's grocery store will open at 2100 E. Whipp Road in Kettering Wednesday, offering groceries, beer and wine, household ...
  11. [11]
    https://www.daytondailynews.com/news/sneak-peek-new-kettering-grocery-store-features-closeout-merchandise/nrWsaD3LYrQus3EASGfYBN/
  12. [12]
    https://www.marcs.com/Shopping/Bakery
  13. [13]
    Marc's | BBB Business Profile | Better Business Bureau
    5841 W. 130th St. Middleburg Heights, OH 44130. View Service Area
  14. [14]
    Marc's to permanently close Kettering location - WDTN.com
    Jan 4, 2023 · The Marc's location in Kettering will be permanently closing their doors for the last time at the end of the business day on Sunday, Feb. 5, according to the ...
  15. [15]
    Marc's to close one of its discount drugstores in the Dayton area
    Jan 5, 2023 · Marc's is planning to close its store at 2100 E. Whipp Road in Kettering, Ohio's Oak Creek Plaza on Feb. 5, according to a post at the retailer's Facebook page.
  16. [16]
    Marc's - Alchetron, The Free Social Encyclopedia
    Oct 13, 2024 · Following the success of the Middleburg Heights store, Glassman built additional Marc's stores. In 1983, he purchased Shulman's store. Glassman ...
  17. [17]
    Royal Indem. Co. v. J.C. Penney Co., Inc. - Case Law - vLex
    ... fire in the J.C. Penney store at the Southland Shopping Center in Middleburg Heights, Ohio in October 1980.During discovery, appelleeJ.C. Penney sought to ...
  18. [18]
    LEADING OHIO DRUG CHAIN INCREASINGLY STOCKING ...
    Marc Glassman, named for its founder and chief executive officer, operates 46 Marc's stores in northeast Ohio, where it is the leader among drug chains, and ...<|control11|><|separator|>
  19. [19]
    Kettering grocery store to close next month - Dayton Daily News
    Jan 5, 2023 · Marc Glassman started his namesake in the Cleveland area in 1979 and expanded into Youngstown, Akron, Columbus and then the Dayton market. The ...
  20. [20]
    Marc's Helps Expand OTC, Grocery and Pharmacy Access in Ohio
    Jun 17, 2025 · Locally owned and operated, Cleveland, Ohio-based Marc's serves communities throughout Cleveland, Akron, Canton, Youngstown and Columbus, Ohio, ...
  21. [21]
    https://progressivegrocer.com/marcs-helps-expand-otc-grocery-and-pharmacy-access-ohio
  22. [22]
    https://www.marcs.com/Smart-Living/Healthy-Living/farmfresh.aspx
  23. [23]
    https://www.marcs.com/Shopping/Grocery
  24. [24]
    https://www.marcs.com/Shopping/Cold-Cut-Counter
  25. [25]
    https://www.marcs.com/Shopping/Pet-Department
  26. [26]
    https://www.marcs.com/Shopping/Closeouts
  27. [27]
    https://www.marcs.com/Shopping/Seasonal
  28. [28]
    https://www.marcs.com/weeklyad
  29. [29]
    Marc's | Marc's Pharmacy - Prescription Refill, Generic Medication, Immunization
    ### Summary of Marc's Pharmacy Services
  30. [30]
    https://www.marcs.com/Pharmacy
  31. [31]
    https://www.marcs.com/stores/marcs-broadview-grocery-store-44147
  32. [32]
    https://www.marcs.com/Pharmacy/Immunization-Services.aspx
  33. [33]
    https://www.marcs.com/pharmacy/medication-therapy-management
  34. [34]
    https://www.marcs.com/store-finder
  35. [35]
    New Marc's to bring over 100 jobs - Morning Journal
    Nov 4, 2000 · “It takes quite a crew to run a Marc's store and we'll have more than 100 full and part-time positions,” Hosier said. Marc's will have a ...
  36. [36]
    The PG 100: Ranking Top Food Retailers in North America
    May 16, 2022 · In 2021, the combined sales of the companies on The PG 100 increased 11% to $2,275 trillion ... Marc Glassman Inc. $1,530. $1,353. 13.08%. 61.
  37. [37]
    Marc Glassman Revenue, Growth & Competitor Profile - IncFact
    Oct 13, 2025 · Marc Glassman's annual revenues are Over $500 million (see exact revenue data) ... Marc Glassman is classified as operating in the Pharmacies & ...
  38. [38]
    Marc Glassman Inc. - GovTribe
    Marc's is a discount grocery chain in Ohio offering fresh produce, pharmacy services, closeout deals, and more. With over 60 locations, Marc's provides ...
  39. [39]
    https://incfact.com/company/marcglassman-cleveland-oh/
  40. [40]
    Jack's Deli Purchased by Cleveland Restaurant Management Group
    Feb 10, 2025 · Jack's Deli (14490 Cedar Rd., 216-691-6837), a classic Cleveland delicatessen around since 1980, has been acquired by the Cleveland ...
  41. [41]
    https://www.indeed.com/cmp/Marc%27s/reviews
  42. [42]
    MARC'S STORES - Grocery - Yelp
    Rating 3.3 (58) · $Marc's Stores. 3.3 (58 reviews). $InexpensiveGrocery, Discount Store. Open • 8:00 am - 9:00 pm. Updated over 3 months ago. Add Review · Call. Directions.
  43. [43]
    MARC'S STORES - Updated November 2025 - 15 Reviews - Yelp
    Rating 2.6 (15) Great locally owned grocery store to shop at. They now accept all credit cards and have better prices than the nationwide stores.<|separator|>
  44. [44]
    MARC'S STORES - Updated November 2025 - 13 Reviews - Yelp
    Rating 2.4 (13) · $$More info about Marc's Stores ; 7353 Mentor Ave. Mentor, OH 44060. Directions ; (440) 951-0100. Call Now ; Visit Website. http://www.marcs.com.
  45. [45]
    Marc's | BBB Complaints | Better Business Bureau
    Marc's as a company works to provide our customers with quality products at affordable pricing. ... Date:12/13/2022. Type: Product Issues. Status: Unanswered ...
  46. [46]
    Marc's | BBB Business Profile | Better Business Bureau
    BBB Rating. F. Reasons for rating. Failure to respond to 7 complaint(s) filed against business; 13 complaint(s) filed against business.