Giant-Carlisle

Giant-Carlisle’s history began in 1923 when David Javitch opened a small meat market in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Javitch built his business on the simple premise of the “best products at the fairest price”. His store prospered during the 1920s and 1930s, and in 1936, Javitch’s entrepreneurial spirit took over when he decided to take a chance on a new business venture.  

He purchased a store in Lewistown, Pennsylvania which he named the Giant Food Shopping Center. The new store offered customers the opportunity to purchase dry goods and perishables under one roof: a new concept at that time. The modern, full-fledged grocery store grew out of these early innovations in supermarket shopping.

Since then, the company’s business has continued to grow and flourish. Today Giant-Carlisle operates more than 150 stores in four states – Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maryland and West Virginia – and employs approximately 22,000 full and part-time employees. Giant Food Stores compete as market leaders in the vast majority of their market area and are one of the best known brands in Pennsylvania. The company also offers a wide range of private label products (read more on private label).

Giant-Carlisle continues to distinguish itself with a high level of selection and value for the money. The company maintains a strong focus on one-stop shopping for busy families and a commitment to healthy living. Many stores offer on-site gas stations, expanded deli, bakery, and produce departments, and include a wide array of prepared foods and organic selections.

In addition to its more conventional supermarkets, Giant-Carlisle is developing new formats to expand and broaden its geographic reach. In 2009, Giant opened Giant To Go, the company’s first ever stand-alone convenience store. At a little more than 4,400 square feet, this store combines on-the-go service for busy families with high quality, fresh products and savings.

Giant opened its first large format Giant Super Food Store in 2005 in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania. In addition to a deep assortment of prepared meals, world-class specialty cheeses, a child play area, state-of-the-art supermarket technology, the store features an in-store nutritionist, cooking school and community center. Two additional super stores, in Willow Grove and Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, serve as larger shopping destinations.

Engagement in the local community is a strong part of the Giant-Carlisle culture.
We focus our attention on improving the lives of children and fighting hunger along with supporting other worthwhile efforts through volunteer time, products and monetary donations.