Farewell to Neff's Hallmark: Local Favorite Shuts Doors After Half a Century

After more than 50 years of serving the community, Jerry Neff, owner of Neff's Hallmark in Chillicothe, will close his doors permanently at the end of May.

During his decades in business, Neff has witnessed various trends pass through the aisles of his store. Despite a loyal customer base, the time has come for him to say goodbye.

Affordable Finds at Neff's Hallmark

According to a Yahoo News report, Neff's Hallmark on Bridge Street has been a go-to spot for customers looking for bargain prices on various cards, customizable shirts, and candles.

The store's owner, Jerry Neff, humorously claims that there are three price categories worldwide: wholesale, discount, and Neff's. His pricing strategy has appealed primarily to businesses, organizations, and individuals who appreciated the low costs.

Neff's Hallmark has stood for 55 years, becoming a community staple. However, Neff acknowledges that once he retires, his customers will lose access to the unique deals they have enjoyed for decades. The decision to close the store was driven by financial challenges, including the need to pay rent for unsold items, such as Hallmark cards.

During his years at the store, Neff has cherished his relationships with customers and colleagues and takes pride in the store's creative shirt designs, many of which have sold hundreds of copies. "This is the reason I come to work," Neff said, reflecting on the community he's built in the store.

At 85, Neff is looking forward to retirement. He plans to spend his newfound free time renovating his woodland home and visiting friends in Florida during Ohio's colder months.

Neff's Hallmark is set to close its doors for the last time on May 31, 2024.

In the US retail sector, 2,847 stores have closed or are set to close, per an Insider report on 20 major retailers in 2023.

Also Read: Target's New Age Check Policy Sparks Outrage Among Mall Shoppers

Reasons range from bankruptcy to cost-cutting and adapting to changing shopping habits. Rite Aid plans to close 154 drugstores amid bankruptcy negotiations.

Bed Bath & Beyond tops closures, shutting 896 stores across three brands by 2026, followed by Foot Locker, with 545 closures across two brands, shifting focus from malls. This trend signals significant changes in the retail landscape, impacting businesses like Neff's Hallmark and others nationwide.

Customers Rave About Neff's Hallmark\

According to Neff's Hallmark Facebook page reviews, customers have shared their positive experiences with the store. Jennifer Walters highly recommends Neff's Hallmark, praising it as a great place to find T-shirts and gifts, with friendly and helpful staff.

Similarly, Gail Fyffe Lochbaum and David C. Mitten commend Neff's Hallmark for its friendly and helpful staff and add that it's a great locally owned business.

On the other hand, Katie Spencer expresses a negative sentiment, stating she prefers businesses with more intelligence and soul.

Heidi Toparcean expresses love for the store, highlighting Jerry and his staff's helpfulness. She particularly appreciates their assistance in finding masks for her children.

In a recommendation from 2020, Joyce Thomas mentions the variety of unique home decor, candles, and T-shirts available at Neff's Hallmark. She also praises the accommodating staff and the ever-changing selection of items in the store, all at great prices.

Related Article: PIRCH's Downfall: Sudden Store Closures Precede Emergency Bankruptcy Amid Financial Turmoil