New York City — On April 7, 2018, Brooks Brothers, America’s oldest retailer, marked its 200-year anniversary. Since opening its doors on April 7, 1818, in New York City, Brooks Brothers has grown from a small family haberdasher to become a global brand that has shaped and defined American style.
“Our anniversary marks a significant and historic milestone not only for Brooks Brothers but also for the retail industry,” says Claudio Del Vecchio, chairman and CEO of Brooks Brothers. “This is a moment to celebrate 200 years steeped in both tradition and innovation.”
Today, Brooks Brothers has more than 280 stores in the United States and more than 700 locations internationally in 45 countries.
Among the company’s historical highlights:
- In 1818, Henry Sands Brooks opened clothing shop “H. & D. H. Brooks & Co” on the corner of Catherine and Cherry Streets. The first recorded transaction was actually a loan to a friend.
- In 1865, President Abraham Lincoln wore a custom-made Brooks Brothers coat to his second inauguration. He was also wearing it when he was assassinated a month later.
- In 1915, Brooks Brothers opened its 346 Madison Avenue flagship store, where it remains today.
- In 1957, Brooks Brothers introduced Argyle socks to America.
- In 1961, Brooks Brothers designed the “#2 suit” — a favorite of longtime customer President John F. Kennedy.
- In 1979, Brooks Brothers was one of the first international brands to expand to Japan.
- In 2008, Brooks Brothers acquired Southwick in Massachusetts so that it could resume the manufacturing of tailored clothing in America.
SOURCE: Brooks Brothers