Bergner’s/Bonton/Carsons/ElderBeerman

Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. has a storied history in American retail, having been established in 1898 in York, Pennsylvania. Over the years, it became a significant player in the department store sector, operating under various regional names such as Bergner’s, Carson’s, Elder-Beerman, Younkers, Herberger’s, and Boston Store. The company expanded its footprint through strategic acquisitions, notably enhancing its presence in the Midwest with the addition of Elder-Beerman and Carson Pirie Scott.

At its zenith, Bon-Ton managed over 260 stores across 23 states, predominantly in the Northeast, Midwest, and Great Plains. These stores were often key anchors in regional malls, offering a wide range of products from apparel and footwear to cosmetics and home goods. However, like many traditional department stores, Bon-Ton faced financial challenges and filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in February 2018. Unable to secure a buyer, the company closed all its stores by August 2018.

Following its liquidation, the brand names were acquired by CSC Generation. Since then, Bon-Ton has transitioned to an online-first model, focusing on e-commerce rather than physical retail spaces. As of August 2018, there are no plans to reopen physical stores, and the brand operates primarily in the digital realm. This shift reflects a broader trend in retail, where online presence often takes precedence over traditional brick-and-mortar locations.

For commercial real estate professionals, Bon-Ton's history is noteworthy due to its previous scale and influence in regional markets. The closure of its stores has had significant implications for mall occupancy and redevelopment opportunities, highlighting the evolving landscape of retail real estate.