Welcome to Gimbels, the iconic department store that has been a part of American culture since 1887. Gimbels is known for its expansive selection of products ranging from fashion apparel and accessories to electronics and household goods. With over 100 locations across the United States, Gimbels prides itself on providing quality and affordable merchandise to customers for over 130 years. Whether you’re shopping for a new wardrobe or just browsing, Gimbels has something for everyone. Visit one of our stores today and experience the Gimbels difference!
What is Gimbels?
Gimbels is a historic department store that has been providing quality and affordable merchandise to customers since 1887. With over 100 locations across the United States, Gimbels offers an impressive selection of products, ranging from fashion apparel and accessories to electronics and household goods. Gimbels is known for its commitment to customer satisfaction, offering competitive pricing and a wide array of stylish products. Whether you’re shopping for a new wardrobe or just browsing, Gimbels has something for everyone. Visit one of our stores today and experience the Gimbels difference!
History of Gimbels
Gimbels is an iconic American department store that has been providing quality merchandise to customers since 1887. Established by Adam Gimbel, the first Gimbels store was opened in Vincennes, Indiana and soon became a chain of retail stores with locations across the United States. In 1932, Gimbels opened its flagship store in Philadelphia, where it quickly became one of the largest department stores in the country. Over the years, Gimbels has evolved to meet the changing needs of its customers, offering a diverse selection of products from fashion apparel and accessories to electronics and household goods. Today, Gimbels continues to be a leader in retail with locations in many cities across the US.
The Rise and Fall of Gimbels
Early Successes
Gimbels early success can be attributed to founder Adam Gimbel’s keen business acumen. He was quick to recognize the emerging popularity of department stores and adapted his store model accordingly, which helped Gimbels quickly become one of the most successful department stores in the country. Under Adam’s leadership, Gimbels opened its flagship store in Philadelphia in 1932 and soon became one of the largest department stores in the country.
Expansion and Diversification
Gimbels experienced continued growth throughout the 20th century, expanding its presence across the United States and offering a wide selection of products. To keep up with customer demands, Gimbels diversified its product offerings to include fashion apparel and accessories, electronics, furniture, and more. Additionally, Gimbels invested in technology to improve shopping experiences – such as the introduction of self-service checkout kiosks and automated warehouses.
Competition with Macy’s
In the early 1900s, Gimbels faced fierce competition from its rival Macy’s. Both stores were known for providing quality and affordable merchandise to customers and had similar locations across the United States. To compete with Macy’s, Gimbels began offering exclusive items such as designer clothing lines and high-end electronics. Additionally, Gimbels invested in creating a unique shopping experience by remodeling and modernizing stores, launching promotional campaigns, and introducing innovative technology.
Decline and Closure
Unfortunately, Gimbels was unable to keep pace with the changes in the retail industry and eventually went through a period of decline in the late 1980s and early 1990s. This was due to numerous factors including increased competition from big-box retailers, changing customer preferences, and financial difficulties. In 1986, Gimbels was sold to BATUS Retail Group and eventually all stores were closed by the early 1990s.
Impact of Gimbels
Contributions to the Retail Industry
Gimbels made significant contributions to the retail industry during its existence. It was one of the first department stores to diversify its product offering and invest in innovative technology, such as self-service checkout kiosks and automated warehouses. Gimbels also revolutionized the shopping experience with their modern redesigns of stores and unique promotional campaigns. Additionally, Gimbels was a pioneer in the use of credit cards, which helped to expand the customer base and increase sales.
Influence on American Culture
Gimbels had a lasting influence on American culture during its time. It was one of the first department stores to appeal to a wide range of customers, including individuals from different backgrounds and income levels. Gimbels also helped to shape the way Americans shopped, as they were among the first to introduce self-service checkout kiosks and automated warehouses.
Legacy and Cultural Significance
Gimbels has left a lasting impact on the American culture and retail industry. Despite its closure in the early 1990s, Gimbels is still remembered fondly for its innovative approach to retailing and contribution to the shopping experience. The store was one of the first to diversify its product offering, invest in innovative technology, and appeal to a wide range of customers, making it a pioneering force in the retail industry. Gimbels’ legacy continues to live on in the minds of shoppers who remember its unique shopping experience and commitment to quality products.
Gimbels’Notable Features
Holiday Displays
Gimbels was well-known for its festive holiday displays. Each year, the store would transform into a winter wonderland with eye-catching decorations and elaborate window displays. Gimbels was one of the first stores to bring the spirit of the holidays to its customers, creating an immersive experience that many shoppers looked forward to. Additionally, Gimbels was known for its annual holiday parade, which was held in downtown Philadelphia and featured elaborate floats and performances.
Legendary Service
Gimbels was known for its legendary customer service. The store had a team of experienced and knowledgeable staff members who were dedicated to providing quality service and helping customers find exactly what they were looking for. Gimbels was also the first department store to introduce the “no questions asked” return policy, allowing customers to return any items within 30 days without having to provide a receipt.
Unique Marketing Strategies
Gimbels was known for its innovative and unique marketing strategies. The store was one of the first to introduce promotional campaigns that targeted specific customer groups, such as retired individuals or working mothers. Gimbels also invested heavily in radio and television advertisements, which helped to draw in customers from across the country. Additionally, the store was well-known for its loyalty programs, which rewarded customers with discounts and other benefits.
Conclusion
Gimbels made a lasting impact on the retail industry and American culture during its existence. It was one of the first department stores to diversify its product offering, invest in innovative technology, and appeal to a wide range of customers. Gimbels also revolutionized the shopping experience with their modern redesigns of stores and unique promotional campaigns. Additionally, Gimbels was a pioneer in the use of credit cards and loyalty programs, which helped to expand the customer base and increase sales. Gimbels’ legacy continues to live on in the minds of shoppers who remember its unique shopping experience and commitment to quality products.
