Pathmark

{{Short description|Supermarket chain owned by Allegiance Retail Services}}

{{Infobox company

| name = Pathmark

| logo = PathMark Logo.png

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| type = Subsidiary

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| industry = Grocery

| fate = Bankruptcy (original)

| foundation = {{start date and age|1968}} in Woodbridge,

New Jersey, United States

| location_city = Iselin, New Jersey

| area_served = Northeastern United States

| key_people =

| products = {{ublist |Bakery |Grocery |Florist |Deli |Produce |Seafood |Meats |Dairy |Pharmacy |General Merchandise}}

| brands = {{ublist |Pathmark 1968–2008 |No Frills 1978–1997 |Smart Price 1997–2010 |Chefmark 1975–2008, 2014–2015 |America's Choice 2008–2015 |Best Yet 2019–present}}

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| services = Bakery, Deli, Banking, Groceries

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| parent = {{ubl|Supermarkets General Corp. (1968–1993)|Pathmark Stores, Inc. (1993–2007)|A&P (2007–2016)|Allegiance Retail Services (2016–present)}}

| website = [http://pathmark.com pathmark.com]

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| location_country = U.S.

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}}

Pathmark is a supermarket brand owned by Allegiance Retail Services, a retailers’ cooperative based in Iselin, New Jersey, USA. Pathmark currently has one location in East Flatbush, Brooklyn, New York, which it has operated since 2019.

From 1968 until 2015, Pathmark operated a chain of supermarkets throughout the northeastern United States. The chain was founded by Supermarkets General, which previously operated ShopRite stores as a member of the Wakefern cooperative and chose to go into business for itself as a direct competitor. The company would eventually take the Pathmark name and would later be purchased by competing supermarket chain A&P in 2007.

Before its initial closure, Pathmark previously operated stores in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Maryland. In 2007, Supermarket News ranked Pathmark No. 31 in its annual "Top 75 North American Food Retailers" based on Pathmark's 2006 estimated sales of $4.1 billion (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=4100000000|start_year=2006}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}).[http://www.supermarketnews.com/sns-top-75/ 2007 Top 75 North American Food Retailers] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070307021209/http://www.supermarketnews.com/sns-top-75/ |date=March 7, 2007 }}, Supermarket News. Retrieved February 24, 2007. Based on 2005 revenue, Pathmark was the 67th largest retailer in the United States.[http://www.stores.org/pdf/06%20JULY%20TOP%20100.pdf Top 100 Retailers: The Nation's Retail Power Players (PDF)] {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070808215354/http://www.stores.org/pdf/06%20JULY%20TOP%20100.pdf |date=August 8, 2007 }}, Stores, July 2006.

Pathmark was well known for its radio and television commercials starring character actor James Karen, who was the chain's spokesperson for more than 20 years. Pathmark's original spokesperson was Arlene Francis, who appeared in its commercials beginning almost immediately after Pathmark left the ShopRite cooperative. Peter "Produce Pete" Napolitano had starred in many of the company's commercials from 2001 until 2009.{{Cite web|url=http://www.producepete.com/bio.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120801095415/http://www.producepete.com/bio.html|url-status=dead|title=History / Expertise: "KNOW A LITTLE ABOUT A LOT". JACK OF ALL TRADES MASTER OF NONE.....|archive-date=August 1, 2012|access-date=May 13, 2019}}

After A&P filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2015, Pathmark's remaining stores were liquidated and closed. In 2016, Allegiance Retail Services purchased the Pathmark name and all intellectual property with the intention of reviving the well-known brand. The brand's first new location opened in Brooklyn, New York on April 12, 2019. The company has stated that they will see how this first location performs before opening additional locations.

History

=Supermarkets General and Pathmark =

Pathmark was formed out of the Wakefern Food Corporation, parent company of ShopRite, Wakefern was both a wholesale operation and a retail operation; among its members was a subgroup, Supermarkets Operating Co., in Union, New Jersey,{{cite web | url = https://www.sec.gov/news/digest/1964/dig032364.pdf | title = Securities and Exchange Commission News Digest | access-date = October 10, 2013 | publisher = U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission | quote = Supermarkets Operating Co., 1416 Morris Ave., Union, N.J.,}} formed in 1956 by Alex Aidekman, Herb Brody, and Milt Perlmutter.{{Cite news |last=Nagle |first=James J. |date=1971-10-24 |title=Anticipating Consumerism |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1971/10/24/archives/anticipating-consumerism-policy-benefits-pathmark-food-chain.html |access-date=2024-08-29 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} This company operated ShopRite stores; in 1963 it branched into non-food retail by acquiring Crown Drugs.

In 1966, Supermarkets Operating Co. and General Super Markets (another subgroup within Wakefern) merged to become Supermarkets General Corporation, with Perlmutter as president.{{Cite news |last=Wedemeyer |first=Dee |date=1986-08-08 |title=BUSINESS PEOPLE; EX-LAWYER AT TOP IN GROCERIES |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1986/08/08/business/business-people-ex-lawyer-at-top-in-groceries.html |access-date=2024-08-29 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} At this time, Supermarkets General operated 75 ShopRite stores across Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, with annual sales of about $420 million (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=420000000|start_year=1966}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}). Supermarkets General achieved high volume by opening large stores in densely populated areas and keeping prices low on both nationally branded-goods and private-label items.

In an attempt to diversify, Supermarkets General bought Genung's Inc., a White Plains retailer that operated the Howland's and Steinbach department stores in 1967. It also acquired the New Jersey–based Rickel home centers in 1968 and Hochschild Kohn stores of the Baltimore area in 1969.

In 1968, Supermarkets General left the Wakefern cooperative, renaming its ShopRite stores Pathmark. Pathmark's stores included not only supermarkets (33 of which had a drug department with a pharmacy) but 11 freestanding drugstores and 11 gasoline stations.

Pathmark's 81 supermarkets were accounting for about 85 percent of Supermarkets General's sales and 80 percent of its earnings in 1969.

=1970s=

The number of Pathmark supermarkets had reached 91 in October 1971, with 38 others either a gas station or a drugstore. In May 1972, many Pathmark locations began operating 24 hours a day. It was the first New York-area supermarket chain to have stores with overnight hours.{{Cite news |last=Murray |first=Alice |date=1972-12-17 |title=Pathmark Cuts Trail for 24-Hour Service |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1972/12/17/archives/pathmark-cuts-trail-for-24hour-service.html |access-date=2024-08-29 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} By February 1973, 90 of the company's 99 stores were open around the clock. That year, Pathmark instituted a price freeze on hundreds of products to help combat rising costs.{{Cite news |last=Barmash |first=Isadore |date=1973-02-14 |title=Pathmark Freezes Some Food Prices |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1973/02/14/archives/pathmark-freezes-some-food-prices-wide-range-of-increases-a.html |access-date=2024-08-29 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}

In September 1974, Pathmark introduced the use of computer scanners at checkout counters in its Middlesex Mall location. At this time, the company operated 104 Pathmark stores.{{Cite news |date=1974-10-04 |title=Electronic Checkout Speeds Food Buying |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1974/10/04/archives/electronic-checkout-speeds-food-buying-checkout-speeded.html |access-date=2024-08-29 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} By this time, Pathmark's profit margins had slipped to as low as 0.18 percent.{{Cite news |last=Barmash |first=Isadore |date=1983-04-17 |title=PATHMARK AND ITS SUPERSTORES |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1983/04/17/business/pathmark-and-its-superstores.html |access-date=2024-08-29 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}

In 1977, after relative stagnation, Pathmark opened its first 50,000-square-foot (4,600 m2) Super Center in Jericho on Long Island. These larger, discount grocery stores also offered health and beauty products, small appliances, and videotape rentals. Also in 1977, Pathmark started a joint venture with the Bedford-Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation to bring a community grocery store to the Bed-Stuy section of Brooklyn. It proved to be one of the company's most successful stores.{{Cite news |last=Kershaw |first=Sarah |date=1997-02-19 |title=Pathmark and Brooklyn Group Both Profit as Partners |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1997/02/19/nyregion/pathmark-and-brooklyn-group-both-profit-as-partners.html |access-date=2024-08-30 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}

Perlmutter died in 1978 and was succeeded by Louis Lowenstein as chief executive officer of Supermarkets General. After about a year, Lowenstein was removed and replaced by vice chairman Herb Brody in 1979.{{Cite news |last=Sloane |first=Leonard |date=1982-02-08 |title=BUSINESS PEOPLE; PATHMARK OPERATOR SELECTS A PRESIDENT |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1982/02/08/business/business-people-pathmark-operator-selects-a-president.html |access-date=2024-08-29 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}{{Cite news |last=Glaberson |first=William |date=1988-07-17 |title=CRUSADING PROFESSOR: Louis Lowenstein; From C.E.O. to Corporate Critic |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1988/07/17/business/crusading-professor-louis-lowenstein-from-ceo-to-corporate-critic.html |access-date=2024-08-30 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}

=1980s=

In February 1982, Leonard Lieberman was named president and chief operating officer of the Supermarkets General Corporation and Herbert Brody became vice chairman and chief executive officer. That month, the company agreed to acquire Pantry Pride, which operated 150 supermarkets in Florida, Georgia, and Virginia.{{Cite news |date=1982-02-10 |title=PATHMARK OPERATOR BUYS PANTRY PRIDE |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1982/02/10/business/pathmark-operator-buys-pantry-pride.html |access-date=2024-08-29 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} However, the deal fell through by April when shareholders sued to stop the sale.{{Cite news |last=Metz |first=Robert |date=1982-04-14 |title=Market Place; Pantry Pride: Lure of Losses |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1982/04/14/business/market-place-pantry-pride-lure-of-losses.html |access-date=2024-08-29 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}

Pathmark sales reached $2.8 billion (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=2800000000|start_year=1982}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}) in 1982, when it was the nation's 10th-largest supermarket chain.{{Cite web |date=April 14, 1983 |title=Herbert Brody Dies, Was Prominent Philanthropist |url=https://jhsnj-archives.org/?a=d&d=jeho19830414-01.1.19&e=-------en-20--1--txt-txIN------- |access-date=2024-08-29 |website=The Jewish Horizon |publisher=jhsnj-archives.org |page=19}} In 1983, Pathmark opened its first Manhattan superstore, a 42,600-square-foot (3,960 m2) unit, in Pike Slip, near Chinatown. At this time over 100 Pathmark locations included pharmacy departments and 27 had Barnes & Noble bookstore departments. Pathmark continued to dominate Supermarkets General's sales and operating profits, accounting for 87% of sales and 83% of operating profit, respectively.

In January 1984, 7,000 butchers and delicatessen clerks at 336 Pathmark, ShopRite, Grand Union, and Foodtown supermarkets in New Jersey and New York voted to go on strike during contract negotiations.{{Cite news |last=Upi |date=1984-01-16 |title=7,000 Workers Strike At 336 Supermarkets |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1984/01/16/nyregion/7000-workers-strike-at-336-supermarkets.html |access-date=2024-08-29 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}{{Cite news |last=Narvaez |first=Alfonso A. |date=1984-02-02 |title=STRIKE AT SUPERMARKETS DRAGS ON AT HEAVY COST |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1984/02/02/nyregion/strike-at-supermarkets-drags-on-at-heavy-cost.html |access-date=2024-08-29 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} A tentative agreement was able to be reached after a 26-day strike.{{Cite news |last=Narvaez |first=Alfonso A. |date=1984-02-10 |title=STRIKING MEAT WORKERS REACH AN ACCORD WITH SUPERMARKETS |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1984/02/10/nyregion/striking-meat-workers-reach-an-accord-with-supermarkets.html |access-date=2024-08-29 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} In July the company announced the acquisition of Purity Supreme, including 28 supermarkets and 14 Heartland warehouse stores.{{Cite news |last= |date=1984-07-07 |title=Purity Supreme |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1984/07/07/business/purity-supreme.html |access-date=2024-08-30 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} The chain was still No. 1 in the New York metropolitan area in 1985, with a 12.5 percent sales share.

In order to foil a takeover bid by Dart Group Corp., Supermarkets General agreed to be acquired by Merrill Lynch Capital Markets Inc. and its own senior managers for $1.58 billion in April 1987. Pathmark president Kenneth Peskin replaced Leonard Lieberman as chairman and chief executive officer.{{Cite web |date=April 22, 1987 |title=Supermarkets General agrees to be acquired - UPI Archives |url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/1987/04/22/Supermarkets-General-agrees-to-be-acquired/9633546062400/ |access-date=2024-08-30 |website=UPI |language=en}}{{Cite news |last=Cuff |first=Daniel F. |date=1987-06-16 |title=BUSINESS PEOPLE; Supermarkets General Elects Its New Leader |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1987/06/16/business/business-people-supermarkets-general-elects-its-new-leader.html |access-date=2024-09-01 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} To help pay down related debt, the company sold 25 of its Heartland and Pharmacity drug stores in New Hampshire and Massachusetts to the Melville Corporation, which operated CVS at the time.{{Cite news |date=1987-07-14 |title=COMPANY NEWS; Melville to Buy 25 Drugstores |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1987/07/14/business/company-news-melville-to-buy-25-drugstores.html |access-date=2024-08-30 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}

Although corporate sales reached $6 billion (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=6000000000|start_year=1989}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}) in fiscal 1989 (which ended January 28, 1989), the 51-unit Rickel subsidiary was performing poorly, while Pathmark, now with 142 stores, had slipped to third place in the New York area. Many Pathmark units had become "unkempt, dirty, and outmoded" stocked with "scores of the dreary no-frills offerings customers have shunned for years."{{Cite web |last=Gasparino |first=Charles |title=Circle of Friends |url=https://bookreadfree.com/457780/11245149 |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=bookreadfree.com |page=8}} Merrill Lynch fired Chief Executive Kenneth Peskin, replacing him with Jack Futterman.

In November 1989, Robert E. Wunderle, the company's chief economist and vice president of public affairs, was found shot to death in a Rockaway drainage ditch. Police theorized it was a mob hit related to Wunderle's role with union negotiations, but the case was never solved.{{Cite news |last=Hanley |first=Robert |date=1989-11-18 |title=Grocery Official Is Found Slain By Rural Road |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1989/11/18/nyregion/grocery-official-is-found-slain-by-rural-road.html |access-date=2024-08-29 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}{{Cite web |last=Considine |first=Bob |date=2011-07-12 |title=Cold Case: Nearly 22 years later, Westfield supermarket exec's killing still baffles authorities |url=https://www.nj.com/news/2011/07/cold_case_nearly_22_years_late.html |access-date=2024-08-29 |website=The Star-Ledger |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Musson |first=Valerie |date=2021-11-16 |title=STILL UNSOLVED: Police Seek Clues Decades After North Jersey Businessman's Body Found In Sewer |url=https://dailyvoice.com/nj/parsippany-troy-hills/police-fire/still-unsolved-police-seek-clues-decades-after-north-jersey-businessmans-body-found-in-sewer/820139/ |access-date=2024-08-29 |website=Parsippany-Troy Hills Daily Voice |language=en}}

=1990s=

By 1991, Pathmark had 146 supermarkets and 32 drugstores. In April, Supermarkets General announced it would be spending $385 million over the next three years to expand its Pathmark supermarket division.{{Cite news |last= |date=1991-04-12 |title=COMPANY NEWS; Expansion Plan For Pathmark |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1991/04/12/business/company-news-expansion-plan-for-pathmark.html |access-date=2024-08-30 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} In July, Purity Supreme was sold off.{{Cite news |date=1991-07-31 |title=COMPANY NEWS; Freeman to Buy Purity Supreme |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1991/07/31/business/company-news-freeman-to-buy-purity-supreme.html |access-date=2024-08-30 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} The company introduced its new concept, Pathmark 2000, in 1992.{{Cite web |last=Fiorilla |first=Paul |date=May 29, 1996 |title=Pathmark Searches For New Leadership |url=https://njbiz.com/pathmark-searches-for-new-leadership/ |access-date=2024-08-31 |website=NJBIZ |language=en-US}} These stores were up to 64,000 square feet and included produce, seafood, baked goods, flowers, health and beauty products, video rentals, film processing, and UPS delivery; and restrooms with tables for changing diapers.{{Cite web |last=Brookman |first=Faye |date=1995-02-27 |title=PATHMARK 2000 FORMAT GIVES COSMETICS LINES A HIGH PROFILE |url=https://www.supermarketnews.com/archive/pathmark-2000-format-gives-cosmetics-lines-high-profile |access-date=2024-08-30 |website=Supermarket News |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Merrefield |first=David |date=1995-01-23 |title=PATHMARK 2000 |url=https://www.supermarketnews.com/archive/pathmark-2000 |access-date=2024-08-31 |website=Supermarket News |language=en}}

In March 1993, Supermarkets General announced it was planning to take the company public, though this was later cancelled. It also spun off Rickel Home Centers and sold it a year later. It also split off its distribution and transportation business.{{Cite news |agency=Associated Press |date=1993-03-18 |title=COMPANY NEWS; PATHMARK PARENT TO FOCUS ON MARKETS AND PHARMACIES |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1993/03/18/business/company-news-pathmark-parent-to-focus-on-markets-and-pharmacies.html |access-date=2024-08-29 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}{{Cite news |last=Levin |first=Doron P. |date=1994-08-26 |title=COMPANY NEWS; Sale Set Of Channel And Rickel |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1994/08/26/business/company-news-sale-set-of-channel-and-rickel.html |access-date=2024-08-29 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} That October, in a corporate reorganization, Supermarkets General Corp., a subsidiary of Supermarkets General Holdings Corp., changed its name to Pathmark Stores, Inc.

In 1994, Pathmark added to its private-label products, introducing Pathmark Preferred, an upscale line to match its mid-tier Pathmark and generic No Frills brands. Pathmark's over 3,300 private-label items were accounting for about 24 percent of its sales.{{Cite web |last=Dowdell |first=Stephen |date=1994-08-29 |title=PATHMARK INTRODUCES UPSCALE PRIVATE LABEL |url=https://www.supermarketnews.com/archive/pathmark-introduces-upscale-private-label |access-date=2024-08-31 |website=Supermarket News |language=en}} On April 30, 1994, Pathmark opened its third Super Drug discount store in Connecticut.{{Cite web |date=1994-06-20 |title=RETAIL ROUNDUP |url=https://www.supermarketnews.com/archive/retail-roundup-2 |access-date=2024-08-31 |website=Supermarket News |language=en}} In November, the company closed seven stores in Pennsylvania after union workers rejected a proposal to cut employee salaries.{{Cite web |last=Zwiebach |first=Elliot |date=1994-11-07 |title=7 PENNSYLVANIA PATHMARK STORES TO CLOSE |url=https://www.supermarketnews.com/archive/7-pennsylvania-pathmark-stores-close |access-date=2024-08-31 |website=Supermarket News |language=en}}

File:Pathmark store brands.JPG

By 1995, there were 27 Pathmark 2000 stores in operation. In August 1995, Pathmark launched Chef's Creations, which offered a menu of entrees, side dishes, and salads, made daily by a team of chefs.{{Cite web |last=Harper |first=Roseanne |date=1995-10-30 |title=CHEF, CHILLED ENTREES FIRSTS FOR PATHMARK |url=https://www.supermarketnews.com/archive/chef-chilled-entrees-firsts-pathmark |access-date=2024-08-31 |website=Supermarket News |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Harper |first=Roseanne |date=1996-01-22 |title=NEW PATHMARK UNIT BECOMES 2ND CHEF'S CREATIONS SITE |url=https://www.supermarketnews.com/archive/new-pathmark-unit-becomes-2nd-chefs-creations-site |access-date=2024-08-31 |website=Supermarket News |language=en}}

Pathmark was named 1995 "Pharmacy Chain of the Year" by the magazine Drug Topics, the first time a supermarket had won the award. Of Pathmark's 142 supermarkets, all had pharmacies except six found in shopping centers. Prescriptions accounted for nearly 7% of Pathmark's sales volume in 1994.

In May 1995, Purity Supreme supermarkets and its Li'l Peach convenience stores were sold to Stop and Shop.{{Cite web |last=Zwiebach |first=Elliot |date=1995-05-01 |title=STOP & SHOP TO BUY PURITY SUPREME CHAIN |url=https://www.supermarketnews.com/archive/stop-shop-buy-purity-supreme-chain |access-date=2024-08-31 |website=Supermarket News |language=en}} In June, Pathmark reduced its pharmacy operations, selling 30 of its 36 freestanding drugstores to Rite Aid Corp. for $60 million (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=60000000|start_year=1995}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}) in order to concentrate on its in-store pharmacies.{{Cite news |last=Quint |first=Michael |date=1995-06-22 |title=Pathmark to Sell Rite Aid New York City Drugstores |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1995/06/22/business/pathmark-to-sell-rite-aid-new-york-city-drugstores.html |access-date=2024-08-30 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} In December, Pathmark announced it would be closing its six remaining drugstores operating under the "Super Drug" banner in Connecticut.{{Cite news |date=1995-12-30 |title=Company Briefs |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1995/12/30/business/company-briefs-045950.html |access-date=2024-08-31 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} Pathmark's two remaining Connecticut supermarkets, in Bridgeport and Norwalk, were closed in September 1998, signaling Pathmark's exit from New England.

In February 1996, Pathmark announced a restructuring of the company that split its two operating divisions into five marketing regions covering 30 stores each: New York City and Connecticut, Long Island, northern New Jersey, central New Jersey and the Greater Philadelphia area.{{Cite web |date=1996-02-05 |title=PATHMARK REALIGNS OPERATIONS UNIT IN MOVE TOWARD DECENTRALIZATION |url=https://www.supermarketnews.com/archive/pathmark-realigns-operations-unit-move-toward-decentralization |access-date=2024-08-31 |website=Supermarket News |language=en}} In March, chief executive Jack Futterman left the company and president Anthony Cuti quit in April. Pathmark appointed James Donald, formerly with Safeway and Walmart, as its chief executive and chairman that October. By January, he had the company cut about a third of its executives.{{Cite news |last=Foderaro |first=Lisa W. |date=1997-01-31 |title=Pathmark Trims Jobs at Headquarters |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1997/01/31/nyregion/pathmark-trims-jobs-at-headquarters.html |access-date=2024-08-30 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} In late 1996, Pathmark introduced Chef's Creations To Go, fresh, prepackaged meals for takeout, offering choice entrees and side dishes in microwavable containers.{{Cite web |last=Harper |first=Roseanne |date=1997-01-06 |title=PATHMARK OFFERS PREPACKED VERSION OF FRESH MEALS PROGRAM |url=https://www.supermarketnews.com/archive/pathmark-offers-prepacked-version-fresh-meals-program |access-date=2024-08-31 |website=Supermarket News |language=en}}

After five years, construction began in August 1997 on Pathmark's controversial $14.5 million (~${{Format price|{{Inflation|index=US-GDP|value=14500000|start_year=1997}}}} in {{Inflation/year|US-GDP}}) supermarket on 125th Street in Manhattan's East Harlem.{{Cite news |last=Hicks |first=Jonathan P. |date=1995-06-23 |title=Harlem Pathmark Is Stalled, Awaiting Word From Mayor |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1995/06/23/nyregion/harlem-pathmark-is-stalled-awaiting-word-from-mayor.html |access-date=2024-08-31 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}{{Cite news |last=Lueck |first=Thomas J. |date=1997-08-23 |title=Work to Begin On Pathmark In Harlem After 5 Years |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1997/08/23/nyregion/work-to-begin-on-pathmark-in-harlem-after-5-years.html |access-date=2024-08-31 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} This {{convert|53000|sqft|m2|adj=on}} unit was the largest supermarket in Harlem, and had been bitterly opposed by owners of neighborhood convenience stores. This Pathmark was expected to generate hundreds of construction jobs, and within the store, which would include a pharmacy and a Chase bank branch. It opened for business in April 1999.{{Cite news |last=Pristin |first=Terry |date=1999-04-28 |title=A Supermarket as a Spur for Change; New Harlem Pathmark Promises Competition and Convenience |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1999/04/28/nyregion/supermarket-spur-for-change-new-harlem-pathmark-promises-competition-convenience.html |access-date=2024-08-31 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} Pathmark was planning its biggest Bronx store in 1998: a {{convert|55000|sqft|m2|adj=on}} unit on {{convert|10|acre|m2}} in the blighted area east of Crotona Park.{{Cite news |last=Halbfinger |first=David M. |date=1998-02-04 |title=A Pathmark Project With a Difference |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1998/02/04/nyregion/a-pathmark-project-with-a-difference.html |access-date=2024-08-31 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}

In fiscal year 1997 (ending February 1, 1997), the parent company had a net loss of $20 million on sales of $3.71 billion. This included a charge the company took for the upcoming sale of 12 unprofitable Pathmark stores, mostly in southern New Jersey. Pathmark's supermarket sales came to all but $9 million of the corporate total. Same-store sales decreased 2.8 percent from the previous fiscal year, primarily due to heavy competition.

In October 1997, Pathmark announced that C&S Wholesale Grocers of Brattleboro, Vermont would take over its Woodbridge, New Jersey distribution facilities and become the chain's supplier for almost all groceries and perishables. The facilities also included a frozen food distribution facility in Dayton, New Jersey, a complex for dry groceries in New Brunswick, New Jersey, and one for general merchandise in Edison, New Jersey. It had processing facilities for delicatessen products in Somerset, New Jersey and for banana ripening in Avenel, New Jersey.{{Cite web |last=Zwiebach |first=Elliot |date=1997-10-13 |title=C&S TO TAKE OVER PATHMARK'S DISTRIBUTION |url=https://www.supermarketnews.com/archive/cs-take-over-pathmarks-distribution |access-date=2024-08-31 |website=Supermarket News |language=en}} Pathmark received $50 million from the deal, which was used towards its $1.47 billion debt.

=Failed Ahold bid and bankruptcy =

In March 1999, Royal Ahold, a Dutch supermarket company which operated Edwards stores in the New York area, agreed to a $1.75 billion deal to acquire Pathmark. Under the terms of the deal, Edwards Super Food Stores would become Pathmark stores.{{cite news |last=Rather |first=John |date=March 14, 1999 |title=The Owner of Edwards To Purchase Pathmark |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1999/03/14/nyregion/in-brief-the-owner-of-edwards-to-purchase-pathmark.html |access-date=October 10, 2009 |newspaper=The New York Times}} The sale was abandoned after the FTC rejected Ahold's offer to divest overlapping stores, saying the offer would "not preserve competition" in the New York area.{{cite news |date=December 17, 1999 |title=Purchase of Pathmark Canceled |url=https://www.nytimes.com/1999/12/17/business/purchase-of-pathmark-canceled.html?scp=10&sq=Ahold%20Pathmark&st=cse |access-date=October 10, 2009 |newspaper=The New York Times}} Ahold ultimately cancelled the deal and later announced that it would rebrand Edwards stores as Stop & Shop.{{Cite web |last=Zwiebach |first=Elliot |date=2000-05-29 |title=AHOLD PLANS TO REBANNER EDWARDS AS STOP & SHOP |url=https://www.supermarketnews.com/archive/ahold-plans-rebanner-edwards-stop-shop |access-date=2024-08-29 |website=Supermarket News |language=en}}

In September 1999, the company started selling prepackaged veal, lamb and pork products instead of fresh cut meat.{{Cite news |last=O'Grady |first=Jim |date=2001-06-03 |title=NEIGHBORHOOD REPORT: NEW YORK UP CLOSE; Pathmark Workers Rally Against the Unkindest Cut |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2001/06/03/nyregion/neighborhood-report-new-york-up-close-pathmark-workers-rally-against-unkindest.html |access-date=2024-09-01 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} In November, Pathmark opened its first, smaller community store in the Kew Gardens of Queens.{{Cite web |last=Murray |first=Barbara |date=1999-11-22 |title=PATHMARK OPENS ITS FIRST COMMUNITY STORE IN N.Y. |url=https://www.supermarketnews.com/archive/pathmark-opens-its-first-community-store-ny |access-date=2024-08-31 |website=Supermarket News |language=en}}

Because the FTC did not allow Pathmark's acquisition plans, it filed for bankruptcy in July 2000, recovering a year later.{{Cite news |last= |date=2000-07-13 |title=COMPANY NEWS; PATHMARK FILES FOR CHAPTER 11 PROTECTION IN DELAWARE |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2000/07/13/business/company-news-pathmark-files-for-chapter-11-protection-in-delaware.html |access-date=2024-08-31 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}{{Cite news |last= |first= |date=2000-09-20 |title=Pathmark Stores Emerges From Bankruptcy |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2000/09/20/business/pathmark-stores-emerges-from-bankruptcy.html |access-date=2024-08-31 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} In February 2001, Pathmark bought six Grand Union supermarkets after C&S bought the chain.{{Cite web |last=Zwiebach |first=Elliot |date=2001-02-12 |title=FTC CLEARS SALE OF 185 GRAND UNION UNITS TO C&S |url=https://www.supermarketnews.com/archive/ftc-clears-sale-185-grand-union-units-cs |access-date=2024-08-31 |website=Supermarket News |language=en}} In March 2002, Stop and Shop purchased 26 Big V Supermarkets, selling nine of them to Pathmark.{{Cite web |date=2002-03-04 |title=Stop & Shop, Pathmark Join Forces to Bid for Big V Stores |url=https://progressivegrocer.com/stop-shop-pathmark-join-forces-bid-big-v-stores |access-date=2024-08-31 |website=Progressive Grocer |language=en}}{{Cite news |last= |first= |date=2000-12-06 |title=Metro Business Briefing; PATHMARK BUYS 6 GRAND UNIONS |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2000/12/06/nyregion/metro-business-briefing-pathmark-buys-6-grand-unions.html |access-date=2024-08-31 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}{{Cite web |last=Lee |first=Karen M. |title=Pathmark Files Plan For Big V, To Buy 9 Company Supermarkets |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/DJFDBR0020080714dy35000l2 |access-date=August 30, 2024 |website=The Wall Street Journal}} In March 2005, Yucaipa Companies paid $150 million for a 40 percent stake in Pathmark.{{Cite news |last= |date=2005-03-25 |title=COMPANY NEWS; YUCAIPA BUYS A 40% STAKE IN PATHMARK STORES |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2005/03/25/business/company-news-yucaipa-buys-a-40-stake-in-pathmark-stores.html |access-date=2024-08-31 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}

In February 2007, Pathmark partnered with Wild Oats Markets by adding Wild Oats-brand private label goods to the 141 Pathmarks. Approximately 150 organic and natural products were included in the partnership, among them: Italian sodas, balsamic vinegar, organic fruit spreads, and flatbread crackers.{{Cite web |date=2012-07-15 |title=Wild Oats - Investor Relations - News Release |url=https://archive.today/20120715003628/http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=70699&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=959034&highlight= |access-date=2024-08-31 |website=archive.ph}}

=A&P Takeover and Pathmark Sav-A-Center=

In March 2007, Pathmark's competitor A&P bought it for $678.6 million.Mestanza, Jean-Pierre. "N. Bergen Pathmark to close" Hudson Dispatch Weekly; September 1, 2010; Pages 1 and 5{{Cite news |last= |date=2007-03-06 |title=A.& P. to Buy Pathmark, a Rival Grocer |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2007/03/06/business/06grocery.html |access-date=2024-08-31 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}} Conditions for the acquisition included the sale of five Waldbaum's locations and one Pathmark store.{{Cite web |date=2007-11-28 |title=FTC Complaint Wants Sale of 6 Stores in A&P-Pathmark Deal |url=https://progressivegrocer.com/ftc-complaint-wants-sale-6-stores-ap-pathmark-deal |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=Progressive Grocer |language=en}} Pathmark and A&P remained separate banners. Store level staff were not affected, while buying and back-office functions were consolidated. A&P sold off Pathmark's Carteret, New Jersey headquarters in June 2008.{{Cite web |last=Peterson |first=Eric |date=June 26, 2008 |title=Pathmark HQ Office Sells for $15M |url=https://www.globest.com/2008/06/26/pathmark-hq-office-sells-for-15m/?slreturn=20240901-41038 |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=benefitspro.com |language=en}} The merger was approved on December 3, with the sale completed that month.{{Cite web |date=2007-12-04 |title=A&P, Pathmark Merger Complete |url=https://progressivegrocer.com/ap-pathmark-merger-complete |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=Progressive Grocer |language=en}}

In spring 2008, Pathmark introduced a "price impact" store concept, under the Pathmark Sav-A-Center brand. This format was introduced to remodeled stores in Irvington and South Edison, New Jersey.{{cite news|url=http://www.progressivegrocer.com/progressivegrocer/content_display/features/fresh-foods/e3ie29ff31c80c6e3df21e81d9f1d830826?imw=Y |title=A&P-owned Pathmark's First Price Impact Store Opens |publisher=Progressive Grocer |date=June 2, 2008 |access-date=October 10, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090324001115/http://www.progressivegrocer.com/progressivegrocer/content_display/features/fresh-foods/e3ie29ff31c80c6e3df21e81d9f1d830826?imw=Y |archive-date=March 24, 2009 }} The Sav-A-Center name had been used for A&P stores in the 1980s, and for an A&P-owned chain of stores in the New Orleans area which were sold in 2007.{{Cite web |last=Pleasant |first=Matthew |title=Rouses buys 18 Sav-A-Center stores |url=https://www.houmatoday.com/story/news/2007/09/16/rouses-buys-18-sav-a-center-stores/26745783007/ |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=The Courier |language=en-US}}

After the concept was tested in the two Northern New Jersey stores, A&P announced the conversion of 16 Pathmark Super Centers, plus eight of the 13 Philadelphia-area A&P Super Fresh stores to the Pathmark Sav-A-Center banner.{{Cite web |last=Panaritis |first=Maria |date=2008-06-26 |title=Pathmarks, some Acmes to get new name |url=https://www.inquirer.com/philly/business/homepage/20080626_Pathmarks__some_Acmes_to_get_new_name.html |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=The Philadelphia Inquirer |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Boss |first=Donna |date=2008-06-30 |title=A&P Takes Price-Impact to Philly |url=https://www.supermarketnews.com/retail-amp-financial/ap-takes-price-impact-philly |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=Supermarket News |language=en}} A&P eventually rolled out the Sav-A-Center branding to Pathmark's website and circulars.

In 2009, several changes were made to Pathmark. In July, the Randolph, New Jersey store was closed.{{Cite web |last=Schillaci |first=Sarah |date=2009-07-23 |title=Pathmark store in Randolph is closing |url=https://www.nj.com/news/local/2009/07/pathmark_store_in_randolph_is.html |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=The Star Ledger |language=en}} A former A&P in nearby South Plainfield opened as a Pathmark Sav-A-Center. The North Plainfield Pathmark also closed as part of this store consolidation. Meanwhile, A&P was updating its former Super Center branding by retrofitting older stores with new interior decor to comply with its Sav-A-Center branding.

=A&P bankruptcy filings and closing=

In August 2010, A&P announced it would close 25 stores, including nine Pathmark locations in New Jersey.{{cite web |last=Tangel |first=Andrew |title=Update: A&P to close 25 stores in five states |url=http://www.northjersey.com/news/business/081310_AP_parent_to_close_25_stores_in_five_states.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100816041851/http://www.northjersey.com/news/business/081310_AP_parent_to_close_25_stores_in_five_states.html |archive-date=August 16, 2010 |access-date=August 17, 2010 |work=NorthJersey.com}}{{Cite web |last=Mestanza |first=Jean-Pierre |date=2010-08-30 |title=North Bergen Pathmark to close by end of October |url=https://www.nj.com/hudson/2010/08/north_bergen_pathmark_to_close.html |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=The Jersey Journalist |language=en}}

On December 12, 2010, A&P filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, citing assets of $2.5 billion and debts totaling $3.2 billion.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2010-12-13 |title=N.J. grocer A&P files for bankruptcy |url=https://www.nj.com/news/2010/12/nj_grocer_ap_files_for_bankrup.html |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=The Star-Ledger |language=en}} The company emerged from bankruptcy protection on March 13, 2012, making its six supermarket divisions, including Pathmark, private.{{Cite web |date=2012-03-14 |title=A&P operator emerges from bankruptcy {{!}} Jefferson City News-Tribune |url=https://www.newstribune.com/news/2012/mar/14/p-operator-emerges-bankruptcy/ |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=www.newstribune.com |language=en}}

In August 2011, a Super Fresh store opened in the Northern Liberties section of Philadelphia in place of a planned Pathmark, reflecting the parent company's diminished faith in the Pathmark banner.{{Cite web |date=August 26, 2011 |title=Northern Liberties Superfresh opens today |url=https://whyy.org/articles/northern-liberties-superfresh-opens-today/ |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=WHYY |language=en-US}}File:Pathmark-Closing.jpg closing in 2012 as workers take down the Pathmark sign.]]

In August 2012, an employee of the Old Bridge, New Jersey Pathmark opened fire on his coworkers with an assault rifle while working an overnight shift. Two employees were killed before he took his own life.{{Cite news |last=McGeehan |first=Patrick |date=2012-08-31 |title=Man Kills 2 Co-Workers and Himself in New Jersey |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/01/nyregion/shooting-at-a-new-jersey-pathmark-leaves-3-dead.html |access-date=2024-08-29 |work=The New York Times |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}{{Cite web |date=2012-09-14 |title='I don't want to die': NJ supermarket shooting terror laid out in 911 calls |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/i-dont-want-die-nj-supermarket-shooting-terror-laid-out-flna998424 |access-date=2024-08-29 |website=NBC News |language=en}}

On July 26, 2013, the Wall Street Journal reported that A&P was seeking to sell the company after emerging from bankruptcy in 2012.{{cite web |last=Nicastro |first=Steven |date=July 26, 2013 |title=Pathmark For Sale |url=http://malverne-lynbrook.patch.com/groups/business-news/p/report-pathmark-for-sale_b6e271ef |access-date=July 28, 2013 |publisher=Patch.com}}

On July 19, 2015, A&P filed for Chapter 11 protection for the second time in less than five years. The company announced that 25 stores would be closed immediately, including 16 Pathmark locations.{{Cite web |last=Bresswein |first=Kurt |date=2015-07-23 |title=Walnutport Pathmark is among 25 A&P stores closing |url=https://www.lehighvalleylive.com/news/2015/07/walnutport_pathmark_is_among_2.html |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=lehighvalleylive.com |language=en}} Other locations were sold.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=August 13, 2015 |title=Union: A&P won't run stores after bankruptcy |url=https://www.dailyrecord.com/story/news/local/morris-county/2015/08/13/union-ap-run-stores-bankruptcy/31664771/ |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=Daily Record |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Porpora |first=Tracey |date=2015-10-22 |title=What is the fate of our Pathmark stores? |url=https://www.silive.com/news/2015/10/6_staten_island_ap_stores_sold.html |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=silive |language=en}} By November 25, 2015, all Pathmark stores were either closed or sold to other chains such as Acme Markets, Stop & Shop, Key Food, ShopRite, and other competitors.{{Cite web |last=Westhoven |first=William |title=Pathmark, A&P exit Morris County |url=https://www.dailyrecord.com/story/news/2015/11/25/pathmark-p-exit-morris-county/76373556/ |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=Daily Record |language=en-US}}

File:Former Pathmark - Linden, NJ.jpg

=Revival=

In 2016, Allegiance Retail Services LLC bought up several stores and the corporation's intellectual property.{{Cite web |last=Sweeney |first=Jennifer |date=February 15, 2019 |title=Pathmark poised for a comeback with new Brooklyn store |url=https://www.grocerydive.com/news/pathmark-poised-for-a-comeback-with-new-brooklyn-store/548528/ |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=Grocery Dive |language=en-US}} It renovated and reopened the East Flatbush Pathmark store in April 2019.{{Cite web |last=Culliton |first=Kathleen |date=2019-04-03 |title=East Flatbush Pathmark Grocery Store Reopening After 4 Years |url=https://patch.com/new-york/ditmaspark/pathmark-reopens-east-flatbush-grocery-store |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=Ditmas Park-Flatbush, NY Patch |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=April 3, 2019 |title=Pathmark Supermarket reopens in East Flatbush under new retailer |url=https://brooklyn.news12.com/pathmark-supermarket-reopens-in-east-flatbush-under-new-retailer-40248614 |access-date=2024-09-01 |website=News 12 Brooklyn}}

Slogans

Shop Pathmark, the store for value (1968–1978)
All Signs Point to Pathmark for One Stop Shopping (1978–1981)
You've got Pathmark. Who could ask for anything more? (1978–1981)
We're Pathmark, We're All-Ways There! (1981–1982)
Savings all over means savings over all (1982–1984)
You're the one who's number one (1984–1988)
Pathmark, More Value For Your Dollar (1988–1990)
Count on Pathmark For Savings That Count (1991–1992)
Count on Pathmark For Savings That (Really) Count (1991–1994)
Pathmark, Your Place to Really Save (1993–1994)
Shop Smart, Pathmark Smart (1994–1997)
Pathmark, The way it should be! (1997–2000)
Pathmark, Take a Fresh Look (2000–2002)
Get a Little More at Pathmark (2002–2004)
Pathmark, It's about time (2004–late 2006)
Go Fresh. Go Local. (2006–2008)
Fresh For Less (2008)
Count On Pathmark When It Counts (2008–2009)
Pathmark! Save all over the place! (2009 – April 2010)
Where the only prices are low prices. (April 2010 – January 2011)
Your Store For Value! (January 2011 – March 2011)
Great Food. Great Value. (March 2011 – November 2015)
We priced it right (April 2019 – Present)
Pathmark makes life easier. (January 2019 – Present){{Cite web |title=Allegiance Retail Services, LLC Trademarks & Logos |url=https://uspto.report/company/Allegiance-Retail-Services-L-L-C |access-date=2024-08-28 |website=uspto.report}}