Last of Ollie’s founders, current CEO dies unexpectedly

The last of four founders of Ollie’s Bargain Outlet died unexpectedly Sunday while spending the Thanksgiving weekend with his family.

Founder, chairman of the board and CEO Mark Butler, 61, will be “dearly missed,” said Richard Zannino on behalf of the board of directors in a statement Monday.

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“Mark was an exceptional entrepreneur, merchant, leader, philanthropist, friend and family man,” Zannino said. “From ringing the first sale in the first Ollie’s store in Mechanicsburg, Penn., in 1982, to leading the Company’s highly profitable growth to 345 stores in 25 states, Mark built a successful and enduring retail concept, assembled an incredible team, created thousands of jobs and delivered millions of bargains to our customers, while delivering exceptional shareholder value along the way.”

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Ollie’s has a location near the Dayton Mall, in Springfield and four in the Cincinnati area.

John Swygert has been named interim president and CEO of Ollie’s. He has been the executive vice president and chief operating officer since January 2018 and served as the chief financial officer from 2004 until then.

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