Cardsmart

CardSmart is a well-established retail brand known for offering discounted greeting cards, gifts, and party supplies. It was founded in 1989, quickly gaining recognition as a cost-effective alternative in the greeting card and gift retail market. CardSmart's stores are typically found in strip centers and neighborhood shopping plazas, where they provide a wide selection of greeting cards at significant discounts, often half the manufacturer's suggested retail price. This approach has helped the brand cultivate a loyal customer base.

During its peak in the mid-2000s, CardSmart operated over 1,000 stores nationwide, benefiting from a franchise model that empowered independent operators to use the brand's purchasing power and marketing support while maintaining local ownership. This strategy allowed CardSmart to expand rapidly, particularly in the Northeast, Midwest, and Southeast regions of the United States. The brand's promise of "Every Card, Every Day, Half Price" resonated with budget-conscious shoppers, solidifying its place in the market.

In recent years, CardSmart has undergone significant changes. As of November 2025, the brand operates around 200 stores, with most locations now independently owned. This shift resulted from a strategic restructuring by its parent company, Designer Greetings, which began in 2019. The restructuring aimed to address challenges in the greeting card industry, such as increased competition from big-box retailers and the rise of digital alternatives. Consequently, CardSmart has reduced its focus on company-owned stores and instead supports independent retailers and franchisees through wholesale supply and branding agreements.

Despite these changes, CardSmart remains a recognizable name in the value greeting card segment. Its adaptable store formats and enduring presence in select markets make it an appealing option for landlords and brokers looking for established retail tenants in neighborhood and community shopping centers.