Tag: Department Stores
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Ames Department Store – What Happened to Them?
Ames Department Stores Inc. was an American discount store chain headquartered in Rocky Hill, Connecticut. Founded in 1958 in Southbridge, Massachusetts, the company grew to operate 700 stores across 20 states, becoming the fourth-largest discount retailer in the United States. However, despite initial success, Ames faced financial troubles due to debt incurred from acquisitions and…
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Two Guys Department Store
Two Guys – What Happened to Them? Two Guys from Harrison, later known simply as Two Guys, emerged as a discount retail chain in 1946, founded by siblings Herbert and Sidney Hubschman in Harrison, New Jersey. Initially, the store specialized in selling major appliances like televisions. In 1959, Two Guys expanded its reach by acquiring…
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What Happened to Bradlees?
Bradlees History – What Happened? Bradlees got its name from Connecticut’s Bradley International Airport, where early planning meetings were convened by the store’s founders. The inaugural store opened its doors in New London, Connecticut, on March 14, 1958. Subsequently, grocery chain Stop & Shop acquired the company in 1961, maintaining ownership until 1992. Following this…
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Ben Franklin Stores
From its humble beginnings as a small mail-order wholesaler in 1877 to its nationwide expansion, Ben Franklin Stores have left quite a mark on the American retail landscape. The history of this forgotten chain is closely linked with the emergence of major retail players, making for an intriguing account of the industry’s progression. Come along…
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Kmart Cafeteria – Did You Ever Visit?
The Kmart Cafe: A Forgotten Icon Do you remember the tantalizing aroma of freshly made burgers, the sizzle of golden fries, and the inviting warmth of a cup of coffee at the Kmart cafeteria? If you are a product of the late 20th century, chances are, you’ve spent more than a few afternoons at one…
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McCrory Stores- What Happened?
Remembering Penny Candy and Oriole Records at McCrory McCrory Stores, also known as J.G. McCrory’s, was a beloved chain of five-and-dime stores that operated throughout the United States. Headquartered in York, Pennsylvania, these stores were known for their wide variety of merchandise, including shoes, clothing, housewares, fabrics, penny candy, toys, and cosmetics. Yet, despite its…
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Zayre – Where’d They Go?
Zayre: The Story of Humble Beginnings and a Bittersweet End Zayre was a household name for many folks in the eastern United States for over three decades. Founded in 1956, the discount store chain quickly gained popularity for its wide selection of affordable goods and convenient locations. However, despite its success, Zayre eventually met its…
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Kresge – How They Became Kmart
From Dime Stores to Discount Retail Dime stores, also known as variety stores or five and dimes, were a familiar sight in neighborhoods and small towns across the United States in the early to mid-20th century. These small, budget-friendly retail stores offered a wide range of inexpensive items, from household goods and novelties to candy…
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Radio Shack – What The Heck Happened?
You’ve Got Questions, We’ve Got Answers Radio Shack was once a household name, with over 7,000 stores across the United States. It was the go-to destination for electronics enthusiasts and DIYers for decades, offering a vast selection of gadgets, components, and tech-related services. However, in recent years, Radio Shack has faced a steep decline, closing…
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JC PENNEY – Unknown Facts
This Main-street Merchant is No Stranger to Adversity JC Penney is a retail company that is deeply rooted in American culture. Anchored in nearly every mall across the country, it started with one location and grew into one of the nation’s largest department store chains. From its humble beginnings selling dry goods to the iconic…