History of GIANT

1923...
The GIANT® history began in 1923 when David Javitch opened a small meat market in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. At that time, he did not envision the great company that would grow from the humble beginnings of a two-man butcher shop called the Carlisle Meat Market.

 

1936...
In 1936, Javitch’s entrepreneurial spirit took over and he decided to take a chance on a new business opportunity. He purchased a store in Lewistown, PA, which he named GIANT® Shopping Food Center. It was very modern and offered customers the opportunity to purchase their dry goods and perishables under one roof, a new concept for the time.

1968...
In 1968, the 9th store opened in Harrisburg, PA and Lee Javitch took over as President of the GIANT® Food Stores chain. David was named to the post of Chairman of the Board.

1970...
In 1970, a strategic decision was made to compete with the larger regional and national chains. Growth accelerated with the purchase of the MARTIN’S Food Markets chain in Hagerstown, Maryland, and it was now becoming more difficult for the family to personally supervise the operation of the expanding company.

1972...
In 1972, a new merchandising effort was begun with the introduction of Everyday Low Prices, a move which would begin a span of over 31 consecutive years of record sales and earnings.

1980...
As the 80s approached, the company had grown to a work force of 3,400; one of the most dramatic events in the company’s history was about to take place.

1981...
In 1981, the Javitch family made a key decision to perpetuate the growth and financial stability of the company. GIANT® entered into an agreement with Ahold, a food retailing business based in Zaandam, Netherlands.

1982...
In 1982, Nick Riso was appointed President of GIANT® Food Stores, LLC.

1988...
In 1988, Allan Noddle assumed the position of president of GIANT® Food Stores, with the opening of the company’s 50th store. Allan was known for his dedication to the business and as a television persona and spokesperson for GIANT.

1992...
The late 80s through mid-90s saw a complete modernization of both GIANT® Food Stores and MARTIN’S Food Markets as remodels, expansions and interior upgrades were completed in every store in the chain. In addition, many new customer conveniences were added including in-store banks, pharmacies, chinese kitchens, coffee shoppes and photo processing.

 

1997...
In 1997, Tony Schiano, former president and CEO of Edwards Super Food Stores became President and CEO of GIANT® Food Stores, LLC.

2000...
In 2000, Tony Schiano unveiled the largest consumer promotion in the company's history, the BONUSCARD®. This program offers shoppers "the key to low prices and more" on in-store purchases, products and services from local and national business partners, and special reward incentive programs.

2002...
The Company experienced phenomenal success in 2002. A new marketing campaign, "Quality. Selection. Savings. Every Day.," spread GIANT’s message of delivering the best products and selection at the best value all of the time. This message carried through as GIANT celebrated its 80th year.

2003...
Shared Services evolved to the extent where TOPS Markets was fully integrated into the GIANT organization. The new structure resulted in many organizational changes consistent with Ahold's strategy of operating local stores that are focused on meeting and exceeding the needs of customers.

2004...
The first MARTIN’S Super Food Store opened in Perinton, New York.

2005...
On October 12, 2005, GIANT opened the first-of-its-kind GIANT Super Food Store in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania. In an effort to offer value-driven and time-starved customers "solutions" to their busy lifestyles, this 91,200 square-foot store features numerous amenities to make shopping easy and convenient: state-of-the-art supermarket technology, an enhanced health and wellness focus, two in-store nutritionists, a community center, cooking school, and supervised play area for children. The Camp Hill GIANT Super Food Store serves as a "concept store" to test customer amenities and then migrate what works well to other markets.

2006...
Throughout its 83 year history, GIANT Food Stores has continued to deliver exceptional service and value to its customers. They remain committed to supporting community needs with an emphasis on eradicating hunger and improving the quality of life for children. In 2005, GIANT Food Stores, along with its customers and Associates, proudly donated over $21.4 million in cash and product contributions to support local hunger-related organizations, children's hospitals, and non-profit groups.

Today and Beyond...
With all of the changes throughout our 83 years in the business, some things will always remain the same...
• Service and value to our customers.
• A positive work environment for our Associates.
• Involvement in the community and support for its welfare.