Many people searching "How long has Beaver Mart been in business?" are actually referring to Bi-Mart, the employee-owned retail chain in the Pacific Northwest.
Bi-Mart was founded in 1955, when its very first store opened in Yakima, Washington. That means the company has been serving customers for more than 70 years. It began as a small membership-based discount store operating out of a founder's garage before expanding across Oregon, Washington and Idaho.
Why Is Beaver Mart Trending?
The question has become popular because many people mistakenly search for "Beaver Mart" instead of "Bi-Mart."
Others are curious about the company's history after seeing new store openings, anniversary promotions or hearing longtime customers talk about shopping there for decades.
When Did Bi-Mart Start?
Bi-Mart officially opened its first store in 1955 in Yakima, Washington.
The founders wanted to create a membership store where working families could buy everyday products at lower prices. At that time, pricing laws made it difficult for retailers to offer discounts, so the membership model helped Bi-Mart provide better deals while following the rules.
Why Is It Called Bi-Mart?
The "Bi" in Bi-Mart originally referred to the membership shopping concept.
Customers purchased a low-cost lifetime membership card that allowed them to shop at discounted prices. Even though retail laws have changed over the years, the membership system remains part of the company's identity.
How Has Bi-Mart Grown?
What started as a single garage store has grown into a well-known retail chain across the Pacific Northwest.
Today, Bi-Mart operates dozens of stores in:
- Oregon
- Washington
- Idaho
The company offers products including hardware, sporting goods, automotive supplies, electronics, clothing, groceries, seasonal items and household essentials.
Is Bi-Mart Employee-Owned?
Yes.
One of the biggest milestones in the company's history came in 2004, when Bi-Mart became employee-owned through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan.
This means many employees have an ownership stake in the company, making Bi-Mart one of the larger employee-owned retail chains in the region.
Why Do Customers Still Shop at Bi-Mart?
Many shoppers continue choosing Bi-Mart because of:
- Membership savings
- Competitive prices
- Local Northwest focus
- Friendly customer service
- Wide selection of everyday products
The retailer has built a loyal customer base over several generations, with many families shopping there for decades.
How Long Has Bi-Mart Been in Business?
As of 2026, Bi-Mart has been in business for more than 70 years.
From its humble beginning in a garage in Yakima to becoming a well-known employee-owned retailer with stores across the Northwest, Bi-Mart has remained focused on providing value and service to its members for over seven decades.
