Renys is a family-owned department store chain operating in Maine, United States. The company was founded in 1949 by Robert H. Reny in Damariscotta and operates 17 locations throughout the state as of 2025. Renys specializes in selling closeout merchandise, production overruns, and factory seconds from major brands at discounted prices.
History
Founding and early years
Robert H. Reny, known as "R.H.," opened the first Renys store in Damariscotta, Maine in 1949. The first winter proved challenging, with business so slow that R.H. had to sell merchandise door-to-door around the area using his old Hudson automobile to keep the store operational. This direct customer interaction helped him build relationships with local residents, who became loyal customers when they visited the store the following spring.
Family succession
The company remained family-owned and operated through multiple generations. R.H.'s oldest son, John Reny, joined the business in 1957 at age five, while his middle son, Robert D. "Bob" Reny, joined in 1959 at age seven.
Business model and operations
Merchandising strategy
Renys distinguishes itself through its purchasing strategy of acquiring small lots of high-quality brand merchandise at significant discounts. The company sources inventory through production overruns, closeouts, irregulars, and factory seconds from established manufacturers.
- Bath
- Belfast
- Bridgton
- Camden
- Damariscotta
- Dexter
- Ellsworth
- Farmington
- Gardiner
- Madison
- Pittsfield
- Saco
- Topsham
- Waterville (opened April 2025)
Former locations
Renys previously operated a store in Fort Kent in Aroostook County, which served residents throughout the St. John Valley. The store, which had survived multiple floods from the St. John River and fire damage on two occasions, was permanently closed in September 1999 due to unsafe building conditions.
Expansion
Despite challenges facing many retailers, Renys has pursued expansion in recent years. The company opened a new location in Bangor in April 2024, occupying a 31,000 square foot space in a former Christmas Tree Shops building.
The company announced plans to open an additional location in Augusta in 2025 which will occupy a 32,000 square foot space formerly used by Big Lots and employ approximately 30-40 people.