The Story of Our Store

In 2007, Marshall Smith, a legendary entrepreneur and New England bookseller, bought what was called Lema's Grocery Store in the historic, circa 1935 building that now is home to Wellfleet Marketplace.

Always a visionary, Marshall turned Wellfleet Marketplace into a vital community hub, expanding the traditional grocery store to include everything our village and visitors need: deli, prepared foods, beer and wine, gifts, and, of course, a bookstore. 

Under Marshall’s leadership, the store became relentlessly focused on our customers. Bob Medeiros, his right-hand man and long-time manager and people person, helped grow the business by responding to community needs, sourcing high-quality products, and hiring an excellent, local staff eager to go above and beyond.

Marshall passed away on May 10, 2022. His son Jed, an accomplished entrepreneur, pioneering impact investor, and environmental activist took the store over at the height of the pandemic. He’s grateful for the opportunity to build on his father’s legacy and continue to serve Wellfleet and the surrounding community.