Proud of our Past. Embracing the Future.
Our History:
The Bon-Ton tradition dates back to 1898 when Max Grumbacher opened a
one-room millinery and dry goods store on Market Street in York, Pennsylvania. The business operated
"with a close attention to detail and a conviction that business success would come to those who
offered customers quality merchandise at a fair price with careful attention to their individual
needs and wants." Those words have held true over the company’s 100+ years.
In the 1960s, Bon-Ton began an era of rapid expansion which continues today.
In 2003, the company doubled in size by acquiring Elder-Beerman, based in Dayton, OH. And three
years later, Bon-Ton doubled the number of stores again, when it acquired the Northern
Department Store Group from Saks, Inc.
Our Present:
Today, we're proud to say that Bon-Ton is one of the nation's
leading regional retailers with 281 stores in 23 states. We're big enough to leverage costs
but small enough to know our local customer. We're big enough to have the systems and training
to drive success, but small enough so each associate has the opportunity for individual
recognition and success. You could say we're not too big, not too small, but just right!
Our Future:
What happens next? At Bon-Ton, we’ve built a solid foundation in
our more than 100 years in business and continue to grow smartly. We'll hold true to the balance
we've achieved – between not being "too big" or "too small."
- We'll continue our rich tradition of commitment to our individual communities and local store names.
- We'll be nimble and adapt to the ever-changing retail industry.
- We'll embrace new ideas, innovative creativity and differing points of view.
- We'll continue to be a place where an individual can be recognized and rewarded.
- We'll continue to be the right place for our associates and customers.
- Discover the difference at Bon-Ton. Help shape our future!