Stern Brothers & Co.: A Comprehensive Company Overview

About Stern Brothers & Co.

Stern Brothers & Co. was a renowned department store chain founded in 1867 by Samuel, Louis, and Isaac Stern. Headquartered in New York City, the company operated 12 stores across the United States, with its flagship store located in Manhattan's Herald Square.

Legacy and Impact

For over a century, Stern Brothers & Co. played a pivotal role in shaping the retail landscape of the United States. The company pioneered innovative merchandising techniques, introduced exclusive brands, and became a cultural icon.

Key Statistics:

• Annual sales exceeding $100 million in the early 20th century
• 12 department stores in major cities
• Over 5,000 employees
• Flagship store with a floor area of 2.5 million square feet

Products and Services

Stern Brothers & Co. offered a wide range of products, including:

• Apparel for men, women, and children
• Accessories, jewelry, and watches
• Home furnishings and décor
• Beauty products and fragrances
• Specialty items, such as toys and gifts

Innovative Retail Practices

Stern Brothers & Co. was known for its innovative retail practices:

• Introduced the department store concept to New York City
• Pioneered the use of mannequins and window displays
• Offered a wide selection of goods under one roof
• Provided exceptional customer service

Exclusive Brands

Stern Brothers & Co. created and sold a number of exclusive brands:

• Lane Bryant (plus-size clothing)
• Eagle Clothes (men's suits)
• Silver Rose (lingerie)
• Pocketbook Shop (handbags and accessories)

The Herald Square Flagship

The flagship store in Herald Square was a landmark in its own right:

• Contained 24 passenger elevators
• Had a 20-foot-tall statue of Mercury on its facade
• Featured a rooftop garden and observation deck
• Hosted a variety of cultural events and exhibitions

Acquisition and Merger

In 1964, Stern Brothers & Co. was acquired by Allied Stores Corporation. The company continued to operate as a separate entity until it was merged with Gimbels in 1980. The combined entity operated under the name Stern's Gimbels.

Legacy Today

Although the Stern Brothers & Co. name no longer exists, its legacy lives on through:

• The iconic Herald Square building, which is now home to Macy's
• The popular Lane Bryant clothing brand
• The innovative retail practices that shaped the industry
• The cultural and historical significance of its flagship store

Tips and Tricks for Stern Brothers & Co. Shoppers

• Visit the flagship store during non-peak hours to avoid crowds.
• Take advantage of sales and promotions, which are frequently offered.
• Use loyalty programs to earn rewards and discounts.
• Sign up for the email list to receive exclusive offers and updates.
• Check the company's website for online shopping options.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Don't expect to find all the same brands and products at every Stern Brothers & Co. store.
• Beware of counterfeit goods, especially when shopping online.
• Don't overspend just because an item is on sale.
• Check return policies before making a purchase.
• Avoid visiting the flagship store during the holiday season, as it can be extremely crowded.

Step-by-Step Approach to Shopping at Stern Brothers & Co.

1. Identify the products you are interested in.
2. Visit a nearby Stern Brothers & Co. store or shop online.
3. Compare prices and features before making a decision.
4. Sign up for loyalty programs and take advantage of promotions.
5. Make a purchase and enjoy your new items!

Tables

Table 1: Stern Brothers & Co. Stores

Table 2: Exclusive Stern Brothers & Co. Brands

Table 3: Stern Brothers & Co. Flagship Store Statistics

Table 4: Stern Brothers & Co. Acquisition and Merger Timeline