LOEHMANN’S GOING-OUT-OF-BUSINESS SALE STARTS THURSDAY

Photo by Brandie Lustbader.

After nearly 93 years, it’s time to say goodbye to Loehmann’s. An investment group won the right to liquidate the company’s 39 stores, including the one on Broadway between 73rd and 74th streets. The sales will being on Thursday.

The stores are set to close in March.

Here’s the press release:

“After almost 93 years, Loehmann’s, the premier upscale off-price specialty retailer that originated the concept, is going out of business.

The U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Manhattan approved an order authorizing a joint venture formed by Tiger Capital Group, LLC, and SB Capital Group, LLC, to conduct “Going Out of Business” sales in each of Loehmann’s 39 locations in 11 states and the District of Columbia.  More than $65 million of current in-season inventory and new arrivals from many of the top designer names will be liquidated during the sale, which begins January 9.

Loehmann’s began operating in 1921 when Frieda Loehmann opened the first store in Brooklyn, N.Y.  Loehmann made her rounds to designer’s showrooms, buying their overstocks, cancellations and samples at a fraction of the original wholesale price.  A trendsetter at a time when women rarely assumed that role, Frieda Loehmann’s forward thinking and innovative approach to retail set the standard for what became an entire industry.

The “Back Room” was a Loehmann’s exclusive, featuring American and European designer selections from the best names in the business, all at bargain prices.  The legendary Back Room was a favorite fashion destination for generations of stylish women.

More recently, declining economic conditions in the retailer’s key markets of California, New York, Florida and the Midwest adversely affected Loehmann’s operations. The company’s performance was also impacted by intense competition from other off-price and outlet retailers, as well as the e-commerce channel. In November, Loehmann’s tried to sell its business as a going concern, but was unable to secure meaningful bids. On December 15, 2013, Loehmann’s filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection for the third time in its history.

Loehmann’s stores feature men’s and women’s designer apparel, shoes and accessories from such brands as Calvin Klein, Theory, Michael Kors, Max Studio, Tahari and Vince,  with prices typically 30% to 65% lower than traditional retail. The “Going Out of Business” sales will offer discounts off these already low prices, with as much as 40% off the lowest, ticketed price on everything, including markdowns and clearance.

Daniel Kane, Managing Partner of Tiger Group, said, “We invite the public to shop early to get the best deals on a wide range of current designer merchandise at liquidation prices.  New inventory will be arriving daily from Loehmann’s distribution center, assuring shoppers an incredible selection.”

Loehmann’s stores are located in Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Virginia, Georgia, Florida, Michigan, Illinois, Texas, California and the District of Columbia. For a list of locations, go to: https://www.loehmanns.com/locationEventMapping.aspx. All stores will maintain their normal business hours during this special sale. Cash and major credit cards will be accepted.

In addition to the liquidation of merchandise inventories, fixtures and equipment from all 39 stores as well as the company’s Rutherford, N.J. distribution center will be sold. Loehmann’s stores range from 15,000 to 60,000 square feet in size, and average 28,000 square feet.