Burlington Coat Factory

Burlington Stores, Inc., known to many as Burlington Coat Factory, stands as a prominent name in the American off-price retail sector. Established in 1972 by Monroe and Henrietta Milstein in Burlington, New Jersey, the company began its journey in a former factory outlet. Originally, Burlington focused on coats and outerwear, but it soon broadened its offerings to include apparel, accessories, home goods, baby products, and footwear. This diversification helped reduce its dependence on seasonal sales and attracted a wider customer base.

During the 1970s and 1980s, Burlington experienced steady growth. It opened its second store in Copiague, Long Island in 1975 and expanded to 31 stores by 1983, the year it first went public. Over the years, the company operated under various banners, including Burlington Coat Factory, Cohoes Fashions, Baby Depot, and MJM Designer Shoes. A significant change came in 2006 when Bain Capital Partners acquired Burlington, and the company returned to public markets in 2013. By 2016, Burlington had joined the ranks of the Fortune 500, highlighting its influence in the retail industry.

As of November 2025, Burlington boasts 1,115 stores across 47 states and Puerto Rico, making it one of the largest off-price retailers in the country, following TJX Companies and Ross Stores. The company's headquarters remain in Burlington Township, New Jersey, after investing in a new corporate campus in Florence, NJ. Burlington's growth has been fueled by strategic acquisitions, such as taking over more than 40 former Bed Bath & Beyond locations in 2023 and 15 Conn’s HomePlus sites in 2024. This approach has allowed Burlington to swiftly expand into new and existing markets.

Burlington's stores are known for offering a wide range of brand-name merchandise at discounted prices, appealing to value-conscious shoppers. Its ability to quickly occupy large retail spaces makes Burlington an attractive tenant for landlords, particularly those with vacant anchor spaces in shopping centers and power centers. The company's continued expansion and strategic site acquisitions indicate a strong commitment to growth in both urban and suburban areas.

Employing approximately 40,000 people and generating annual revenues exceeding $9 billion, Burlington maintains a robust operational and financial presence. Its leadership, public company status, and adaptability in a changing retail landscape solidify Burlington's reputation as a credible and desirable anchor tenant nationwide.