What makes Maria's Hallmark shops so popular are the customer service, the employees and the selection of merchandise, Pettit said. Tied into customer service is the staff employed at the stores, Pettit said. We have managers at each of our stores and we're extremely fortunate to have the manager we do. About 70 people are employed by Maria's Hallmark stores and in the company's main warehouse and distribution center in Crown Point. The array of merchandise offered at the stores is another reason customers come in again and again, Pettit said.
Collectibles are another major category of merchandise customers buy.
Among the major name brands are Precious Moments, Cherished Teddys, Seraphim Angles and NAO by Lladro. The stores also have expanded seasonal hours during major holidays.