The renowned Roman brand is making a brief comeback after disappearing from the scene years ago. Apparently, shoppers will have a chance to snag some designer pieces at significantly reduced prices, according to reports.
This temporary pop-up of the historic department store, which filed for bankruptcy in 2013, is set to open on Long Island on August 21, the new owner has announced.
Rival retailer Century 21 acquired the brand quietly in 2020, and as reported, they are revamping it with a series of pop-up locations, starting with Tanger Outlets in Deer Park.
The initial two weeks of sales will include Loehmann’s well-known “backroom,” featuring deeply discounted luxury brands like Michael Kors, Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, Fendi, and Oscar de la Renta, among others.
“I hope there’s some nostalgia after 11 years, that people remember the brand fondly,” said Larry Menzer, COO of Century 21, during an interview.
Menzer chose not to disclose specific brands available in the backroom since many designers prefer to stay distanced from the discount image.
He mentioned that there will be a combination of “well-known European designer labels, familiar names, and up-and-coming brands.”
Besides the Long Island location, another pop-up is set for Florida later this year, and Menzer hinted at plans for a New York City opening next year.
“I think there’s genuine potential for brands moving forward,” he added, noting that the off-price sector is currently thriving in retail.
The Gindi family, which owns Century 21, acquired the Loehmann brand for approximately $300,000 following its third bankruptcy filing, a source shared.
The New York-based company, which had filed for bankruptcy in 2020 before its reopening, remains one of the last discount department stores emphasizing designer labels.
Other competitors like Filine’s Basement, Daffy’s, and Syms have all closed down in the past decade, unable to compete with larger chain stores like TJ Maxx and Ross.
In its heyday, Loehmann’s operated approximately 100 stores nationwide during the 1990s, while Century 21 had 13 stores, mainly located in the New York metropolitan area.
Currently, only one Century 21 store continues to operate at its flagship location in Lower Manhattan.
