Johnston & Murphy

Johnston & Murphy is an established American footwear and apparel brand known for its craftsmanship and classic style. The company began in 1850 as a bespoke shoemaker in Newark, New Jersey, and quickly earned a reputation for quality and durability. One notable milestone in its history is outfitting numerous U.S. presidents, a tradition that has spanned from Millard Fillmore to Barack Obama, which has helped cement the brand’s credibility and national recognition.

As of November 2025, Johnston & Murphy operates 104 retail locations across the United States. Its footprint includes a mix of standalone boutiques, outlet stores, and a strong e-commerce presence. Over the past five years, the brand has steadily expanded, focusing on high-traffic retail corridors and lifestyle centers, particularly in major urban markets and affluent suburban areas. Recent store openings and planned locations highlight a commitment to maintaining a broad national presence while adapting store formats to meet evolving consumer preferences.

The company is owned by Genesco Inc., a publicly traded footwear and accessories company based in Nashville. Under Genesco’s ownership, Johnston & Murphy has continued to grow thoughtfully, leveraging the parent company’s resources to secure premium retail space and support ongoing innovation. The brand’s current expansion strategy targets key metropolitan regions such as New York, Chicago, Dallas, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Miami, reflecting a focus on markets with strong retail fundamentals.

Johnston & Murphy is recognized for its stable growth posture and proven retail formats, making it a reliable tenant in upscale retail environments. The brand continues to evolve, introducing new store concepts and product offerings that balance its heritage with contemporary design, ensuring ongoing relevance in a competitive retail landscape.