Gordmans

In a ’32 Chevy bound for California, Dan Gordman left his job at Bloomingdale’s in New York in 1936 for a career of his own making. Armed with little more than a head full of innovative plans and a lot of gumption, Dan headed west to seek his fortune. As luck would have it, he only made it as far as Omaha. His fated stop for car repairs led Dan to a lasting romance with Esther Richman and a lifelong business relationship with her father Sam.

Russian immigrant Sam Richman had owned and operated his small Omaha retail clothing store since 1915. With the addition of Dan Gordman to the family, Sam gained not only with a new son-in-law, but a new business partner as well. Inventive and sharp, Dan quickly energized the small company. Out of this relationship, Richman Gordman was born.

Richman Gordman prospered, leading to progressively faster expansion. Over several decades, the Company added additional stores in Omaha and Lincoln, and eventually, elsewhere in Nebraska along with communities in Iowa and Kansas. Centralized checkouts, shopping carts, and self-service shoes were all introduced to the Midwest by Dan and his growing retail chain. In 1975, a second group of retail stores, 1/2 Price Stores, was launched. By 1990, the Company had grown to 16 Richman Gordman stores and 16 1/2 Price Stores.

In 1996, Jeff Gordman became CEO of the company. Dedicated to preserving his grandfather’s sense of innovation and tenacity, Jeff realized the importance of constantly improving upon the status quo. After repositioning to strengthen the portfolio of brand names, foster the development of a new prototype store, and upgrade the presentation, Gordmans as we know it today was born.

Under Jeff’s leadership, Gordmans now offers an easy-to-shop layout, energetic signage and graphics, Gordmans Giggles children’s theater, a sports-themed seating area, and most importantly, a huge selection of brand name fashions at incredible savings. Under the mission statement, “To delight our guests with big savings, big selection, and fun, friendly associates,” Gordmans has grown to an impressive 65 stores in a total of 16 states, to date.

No matter what the future may bring, it’s nice to know you can still find the deep commitment to guest satisfaction that makes an ordinary shopping experience extraordinary. You’re always welcome at Gordmans!