Bon Worth

Bon Worth, a women's apparel retailer, was founded in 1976 in Hendersonville, North Carolina. The company gained a reputation for offering affordable and comfortable clothing, specifically catering to mature women who valued classic styles with a good fit. During the 1980s and 1990s, Bon Worth experienced significant growth, establishing a presence in shopping malls and outlet centers throughout the United States. By the early 2000s, the retailer had expanded to over 300 locations, primarily in the Southeast, Midwest, and along the East Coast. Its stores were particularly prevalent in outlet malls and tourist areas, making it a familiar name in these regions.

As of March 2020, Bon Worth had ceased operations following a Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in November 2019. The company began closing its remaining stores due to challenges such as declining foot traffic in malls and shifts in retail trends. By early 2020, both its website and physical locations had largely shut down, with only a few stores remaining open briefly before final liquidation. Throughout its operational years, Bon Worth was privately held and did not engage in franchising.

At its height, Bon Worth employed around 1,000 people across the nation. The retailer was known for its small-format stores, typically ranging from 2,000 to 3,500 square feet, which were designed to create a welcoming shopping environment for its target demographic. The brand featured signature lines like "Bon Worth Classics" and "Petite Shop," offering a curated selection of casual and career wear. For commercial real estate professionals, Bon Worth was recognized for its consistent store footprint and reliable tenancy, making it a sought-after tenant for outlet center landlords seeking stable and traffic-driving retailers. Despite its closure, Bon Worth's legacy in the retail apparel sector is marked by its long-standing presence, regional influence, and ability to adapt to various retail environments.