History of Martins’ Country Market

John F. Martin, founder of John F. Martin and Sons Inc. and Martins’ Country Markets was originally a farmer by trade. The business originated when, in 1932, Mr. Martin needed to generate more income to pay his debts. To do this he began raising produce and poultry for resale at the 5th and Olney Market in Philadelphia.

Twenty one years of travel to market led John to decide to open his own butcher shop on his farm in Stevens, Pennsylvania. After several years of custom butchering Mr. Martin was asked to sell meat products in the newly opened Hollinger’s Roadside Market. As business began to increase at the butcher shop and market stand, John decided he would form a corporation with four of his sons.

As a result, John F. Martin and Sons was established in 1961 marketing their fine meat products statewide and business began to flourish. Eventually, the Martins decided that the time had come to open their own retail establishment.

This became a reality on October 5, 1983 when Lincoln Mall opened for business. Success of this first store initiated an expansion in 1987. Shortly thereafter another milestone was reached as Martins’ Country Markets added two more franchises in Morgantown and Fleetwood by purchasing Farmer Brown’s Markets in 1991 from Leroy Hoover. In 1999 the Fleetwood store was sold to Shurfine Markets. On September 15, 2011 the Morgantown store was sold to BB’S Grocery Outlet.

For over thirty years now both the John F. Martin and Sons Inc. and Martins Country Markets have been under the ownership of the Martin family. The meat plant distributes its quality meat products into eight states with continued success as Martin’s Country Market continues to grow. In November of 2012, Martin’s completed a total store renovation. With expanded retail space, new display cases and modern décor, Martins now has a whole new look with the same quality products and service. One of the highlights of the remodel is “The Corner Café”, featuring breakfast, lunch and dinner.

At John F. Martin and Sons and Martins’ Country Market we strive to be the best in our business by providing our customers with the ultimate shopping experience. Service with a smile, quality products, wide selection, variety, and a customer friendly environment are keys to our continued success.