For over a century, Kaufmann has been an integral part of the American retail industry. Their story is one of perseverance, innovation, and a passion for providing quality products and exceptional customer service. This blog post will take you on a journey through the history of Kaufmann, from its humble beginnings to becoming a nationally recognized brand.
The story of Kaufmann began in 1871, when Jacob and Isaac Kaufmann opened a small dry goods store in downtown Pittsburgh. Over the years, the store grew in size and reputation, eventually becoming one of the largest retail stores in the city. In the early 1900s, the Kaufmann brothers made a bold move by purchasing the entire block where their store was located. They demolished the existing buildings and built a massive new department store, featuring the latest in modern amenities and technology.
Kaufmann quickly became a destination for shoppers from all over Western Pennsylvania, and the store’s reputation for quality and customer service continued to grow. In the 1920s and 1930s, Kaufmann’s pioneered several innovations that would change the retail industry forever. They were one of the first stores to offer personal shopping services and to install escalators to move customers from floor to floor quickly.
In 1924, Kaufmann’s made history by becoming the first department store in the country to offer a collection of designer clothing. Their Fashion floor showcased the latest styles from renowned designers such as Christian Dior, Chanel, and Yves Saint Laurent. Kaufmann’s also established a reputation for promoting young designers, giving them a platform to showcase their talent on a national stage.
Throughout the 20th century, Kaufmann’s continued to grow and expand, opening new stores in cities such as Atlanta, Houston, and San Francisco. They were among the first retailers to offer online shopping, and in the 1990s, they launched Kaufmann’s Online, which allowed customers to purchase products directly from their website.
Today, Kaufmann’s legacy lives on as a symbol of American innovation and perseverance. Although the company no longer exists under its original name, its impact on the retail industry is still felt to this day. Kaufmann’s commitment to quality, customer service, and innovation made it an iconic American brand, and it remains a source of inspiration for generations to come.
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