Our local Hallmark stores, at Congressional Plaza and Westfield Montgomery mall, are heading into the holidays under new ownership. Banner’s, the Gaithersburg-based franchisee that previously ran them, recently sold off its Maryland holdings and then filed Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Banner’s still owns 39 stores in Virginia, which it hopes to keep open. All the Maryland stores now belong to Norman’s Hallmark, an 86-year-old company with 75 locations in four states. So far, the merchandise mix looks pretty much the same: The shelves are full of cards, holiday decor, tote bags, and gifts from brands like Warmies, Vera Bradley, Life is Good, Scout, Willow Tree and Stonewall Kitchen.
Barbara Pauley
Is there a Store Reporter for Gaithersburg to Frederick areas?
Store Reporter
There is no other Store Reporter, just us! We are a hyper-local publication dedicated to Rockville, Potomac and North Bethesda.
Sherry Christofferson
Is this the beginning of the end for the much loved Hallmark trademark?
Store Reporter
Unlikely. Norman’s, the company that bought our local Hallmark stores, has a huge portfolio and obviously thought the Maryland locations were worth owning.