For the most part, Ben Franklin variety stores have vanished for the public scene. Walmart and Micheals both have history by their founders being involved with the chain before they would go on and start their own. Yet, there are some locations that continue to hang on for whatever reason. Some have adapted to become tourist traps (looking at you Nags Head, NC) while others continue with the traditional general merchandise. Today's post takes you on a tour of the Ben Franklin store in Clarkstown, PA- which is near Muncy.
Although known for being a variety store, Ben Franklin pushed to be more stationery, craft and decor focused in more recent decades. From my observations, I'd say about 1/2 of the store is just those categories. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem to have helped a lot for the chain as a whole.
Interestingly, this particular location had a pharmacy operate within it until recently. I have a suspicion that this was ran by an outside company as I'm not aware of other instances of this occurring.
Really neat to see an old 5 and 10 type store still hanging around in the present day. This store has a real Kmart vibe to it - not in the bad dumpy way, but in the old school discount store way. That last photo showing the small grocery section looks like it was taken in a Kmart - the lighting and the all white floors really help with that feel. Hopefully this Ben Franklin will stick around for a while more!
ReplyDeleteDefinitely had an old time feel to it while walking around, but not in a bad way. Store was clean and stocked decently for what it did carry.
DeleteNice store tour! It's cool to see one of the few surviving locations.
ReplyDeleteIndeed.
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