Hallmark Cards is the largest maker of greeting cards in the United States.
Industry Leaders in Greeting Cards
The US greeting card market is primarily dominated by two major players, with Hallmark Cards holding the top position.
Hallmark Cards: The Market Dominator
Hallmark Cards, based in Kansas City, Missouri, stands as the undisputed leader in the US greeting card industry. With a long-standing history and extensive distribution, Hallmark offers a vast array of cards for every occasion, along with other related products such as gifts, stationery, and ornaments. Its brand recognition and market penetration are unparalleled, solidifying its status as the world's largest greeting card producer.
American Greetings: A Significant Contender
American Greetings Corporation, a privately held American company, holds the position as the world's second largest greeting card producer. Based in Westlake, Ohio, American Greetings offers a wide variety of card brands, gift wrap, and party goods. Its substantial presence makes it a formidable competitor, but it remains behind Hallmark Cards in terms of overall market share and production volume.
Comparing the Top US Greeting Card Companies
To better understand their respective positions, here's a brief comparison of the two leading companies:
| Company | Primary Market Position | Headquarters | Key Offerings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hallmark Cards | Largest globally and in the US | Kansas City, Missouri | Greeting cards, gifts, stationery, party supplies |
| American Greetings | Second largest globally | Westlake, Ohio | Greeting cards, gift wrap, party goods |
Understanding the US Greeting Card Market
The greeting card market in the United States remains a significant industry, blending tradition with evolving consumer preferences. Despite the rise of digital communication, physical greeting cards continue to be cherished for their personal touch and tangible nature.
Key aspects of the market include:
- Diverse Occasions: Cards are produced for a multitude of events, from major holidays like Christmas and Valentine's Day to everyday sentiments, birthdays, and anniversaries.
- Extensive Retail Presence: Both major companies utilize broad retail networks, including their own branded stores, major retail chains, and independent gift shops, ensuring widespread availability of their products.
- Continuous Innovation: Companies in this sector constantly innovate with new designs, materials, and interactive features to align with evolving consumer tastes and maintain interest.
The continued strength of these leading companies underscores the enduring cultural importance of sending and receiving physical greeting cards in the US.
