Is Bealls Going Out Of Business? Despite rumors, they are only sometimes closing. Suppose you’re curious about the fate of your favorite Bealls store or how they’re adapting to modern challenges. Then, this article is your guide. Join us as we explore the truth behind the speculations and unveil what lies ahead for Bealls Department Stores. So, Let’s dive in!
So, Bealls is not going out of business. However, they have closed some operations to maintain its core business. Amid rumors, Bealls responded by addressing concerns with accurate information. While facing challenges in the evolving retail landscape, Bealls remains committed to transparency. It adapts to changes and delivers exceptional customer experiences.
The company has adapted to the changing retail landscape, focusing on e-commerce, digital marketing, and strategic collaborations.
E-commerce Integration
Bealls invested in a robust online platform. This allows customers to shop from anywhere conveniently. It has expanded beyond physical stores and offers a diverse product selection.
Digital Marketing Campaigns
It utilizes targeted online promotions and digital marketing. Bealls aimed to create brand awareness, drive online traffic, and enhance the customer experience through personalized approaches.
Partnerships and Collaborations
Recognizing the value of partnerships, Bealls collaborated with brands and influencers, leveraging their networks to tap into new audiences, expanding reach, and enhancing its online reputation.
About Bealls Holding Corp.
Bealls Holding Corp., a Texan chain of department stores, was owned by Stage Stores Inc. and had its headquarters in Houston, Texas. The store focused on selling popular brand-name clothing, accessories, cosmetics, footwear, and household items.
On May 11, 2020, it was announced that Stage had filed for bankruptcy. This led to the liquidation of all Bealls locations. The chain shared some territory with the unrelated Florida-based Bealls chain. The Florida chain changed its name to Burkes Outlet in areas where both chains operated.
As part of shutting down its operations, Stage sold its intellectual property, including the national rights to use the Bealls name, to the Florida Bealls for $7 million on October 21, 2020. Bealls also gained rights to Stage’s other chains’ terms, private label brands, customer lists, and a distribution center in Jacksonville, Texas.
There are more than 500 Bealls stores spread across 15 states. The states with the most stores include:
- Florida
- Texas
- Georgia
- Arizona
- Tennessee
- North Carolina
How do I pronounce it? It’s Bealls, but you don’t say the “a,” so it sounds like “bells” when spoken aloud.
If you’re looking for Bealls store hours near you, most Florida stores open at 9 a.m. and close at 11 p.m. daily. Some stores open an hour earlier, at 8 a.m.
What Is The History Of Bealls?
The first Beall store opened in Henderson, Texas, in 1923. It was founded by two brothers named Archie and Robbie (and later, Willie). They expanded with a second store in Nacogdoches in 1926 and a third in Mt. Pleasant in 1927.
By 1930, they had seven stores and acquired the business of J.L. Douglas, a Jacksonville merchant. This move made Jacksonville the home of the growing chain and its eighth store. 1935, the home office moved to the Mayfield Building in downtown Jacksonville. The store location moved in 1936, remaining there for almost 50 years. By 1940, Bealls had 15 stores.
Despite World War II, the store count grew to 19 by 1950 and 38 by 1957.
In the 1960s, they modernized stores and operations.
By 1972, Bealls had 60 stores in Texas and expanded to Oklahoma.
In the 1980s, buying operations moved to Irving, Texas.
In 1988, due to economic challenges in Texas, the Beall family sold the company to Specialty Retailers, Inc., based in Houston.
Specialty Retailers, Inc. later became Stage Stores. It operates over 850 stores in 40 states under various nameplates, including Bealls (unrelated to the Florida Bealls chain). Exclusive Bealls brands include:
- Valerie Stevens
- Signature Studio
- Sun River
- Rustic Blue
- Rebecca Malone
- Wishful Park
On May 10, 2020, Stage filed for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy. Unless a buyer was found, this announced the liquidation of all locations, including Bealls and Gordmans. Every buyer has yet to emerge, leading to going-out-of-business sales at all locations.
Is The Retail Landscape Shifting With The Rise of Online Shopping?
The retail industry is changing due to the rise of online shopping and shifting consumer habits. Traditional brick-and-mortar stores encounter challenges in this evolving landscape. Now, let’s examine the current state of retail. And the hurdles physical stores face and the impact of changing consumer preferences.
Online shopping’s popularity has soared due to its convenience. With a few clicks, consumers can explore various products from various brands, comparing prices effortlessly. The prevalence of smartphones has further fueled this growth, allowing people to shop anytime, anywhere.
Online retail brings unmatched advantages. It offers 24/7 shopping, eliminating the constraints of traditional store hours. Doorstep delivery and reliable shipping enhance the experience. Additionally, consumers can research products and read reviews, making informed decisions.
The surge in online shopping has affected physical stores. Traditional retailers face a decline in foot traffic as consumers opt for online convenience. However, some stores have adapted by integrating online and offline channels, offering click-and-collect options and personalized in-store experiences. The impact on physical stores is not solely negative; adaptation strategies can attract customers in this changing retail landscape.
Why Did Bealls Close Austin Stores?
Bealls closed two Austin stores recently as part of its nationwide closure of eight locations. The department store chain is affiliated with Houston-based Stage Stores. It closed stores in Northeast Austin’s Windsor Village shopping center and Southwest Austin’s Westgate shopping center. The closures are part of Stage Stores’ strategy to strengthen operations and focus on growth, emphasizing productivity. Despite these closures, Bealls still maintains a presence in South Austin’s Southpark Meadows shopping center and various surrounding communities, including:
- Bastrop
- Cedar Park
- Elgin
- Georgetown
- Marble Falls
- Pflugerville
- Round Rock
- Taylor
Is Bealls Being Rebranded?
Over two years ago, Houston’s Stage Stores sold its intellectual property in a bankruptcy sale, including national naming rights to its Bealls department stores. Now, the Bealls brand is set to receive a boost.
Bealls Inc. has decided to change the name of its 83 Burkes Outlet stores in Texas to Bealls by the end of 2023. This rebranding effort includes two stores near Houston in Porter and Sugar Land.
Stage Stores faced bankruptcy during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In the acquisition, Bealls Inc. obtained intellectual property from Stage Stores, such as:
- Trademarks
- Trade names
- Customer lists
- A Texas distribution center
When it filed for bankruptcy in 2020, Stage Stores operated 738 stores under various brands. The company, formed in 1988, resulted from the merger of two Texas family-owned department store chains established in the 1920s. It acquired department stores in small towns that needed access to malls and other apparel retailers.
Bealls operates over 600 stores in 23 states under names like Beall Florida, Bealls, Home Centric, and Rugged Earth Outfitters, as stated in a company release.
What Is The New Branding Of Bealls?
Bealls is amidst a significant rebranding effort for its two major chains. The company’s 600 Bealls Outlet and Burkes Outlet locations across 23 states are now unified under “Bealls.” Bealls is now known as “Bealls Florida,” marking a change during a period of consistent expansion with the opening of more than 150 stores in the last 2.5 years.
CEO Matt Beall sheds light on the company’s success during challenging times. Despite initial struggles during the pandemic, loyal customers helped the business rebound, leading to three of its best years.
Bealls Outlet and Burkes Outlet initially operated under different names. This is due to ownership constraints, which have now merged as one chain called “Bealls.” The decision to drop the term “Outlet” was motivated by a desire to move away from the perception of cheap or second-rate goods. This rebranding has shown positive results, with increased sales and new customers.
The Bealls stores are now known as “Bealls Florida” in Florida. It aligns with their e-commerce business and the Live. Life. Local marketing campaign. This change reflects the company’s evolution into a specialty retailer, offering consistent value without heavy promotions.
The conversion of all stores, including new signage, is planned for November 10. The company’s headquarters in Bradenton, Florida, has been family-owned since 1915. Matt Beall emphasizes the benefits of being a family business, citing flexibility, empowerment, and faster adaptability to change. Despite challenges faced by many family businesses, Bealls has maintained its success. This is attributed to a strong family culture and shareholder support. The unique aspect of being a private, family-owned company. It is likened to a committed marriage, where daily dedication is essential for continued success.
Why Did Burkes Change To Bealls?
The store may have a new sign, but it’s still the same store.
Bealls Inc. recently renamed Burkes Outlet in The Shops at Turkey Creek to Bealls Outlet. A temporary banner is in place, waiting for a permanent fixture.
The decision to retire the Burkes name extends to all 12 Oklahoma stores, aligning with Bealls’ national growth.
At the Bartlesville location, which opened in September 2020. According to company officials, there are no anticipated staffing changes.
District Manager Michael Allison assured, “Our team is committed to providing our guests with the same great products, service, and value. Bealls is gaining popularity, and we’re excited to unite all our outlet stores under one name.”
Bealls operates over 550 stores in 23 states, including Burkes Outlet and Bealls Outlet. Their portfolio includes Bealls stores, Home Centric, and Rugged Earth Outfitters.
Bealls Inc. is changing its approach on a national and Florida level by announcing a rebranding initiative for some of its chains, the Bradenton-based retailer revealed.
A recent news release states that the Florida-only Bealls Department Stores will now be known as Bealls Florida. This shift is part of a marketing strategy highlighting local ties. This aims to “differentiate” and “distance” the brand from national department stores. The renaming also aligns with their online business, beallsflorida.com, which was established during the rise of e-commerce in the 1990s.
Additionally, two other brands under Bealls are undergoing consolidation. Burkes Outlet and Bealls Outlet, with stores across 23 states, rebranded under the Bealls name in 2023. The company mentioned that “outlet” is considered “dated” and can lead to product origins and quality confusion.
Matt Beall, Chairperson and CEO of Bealls, stated, “These changes will allow us to achieve our limitless potential. As we face competition from big names like TJ Maxx, Marshalls, and Kohl’s, in a recent announcement”.
How Many Bealls Are In The Florida?
As of November 16, 2023, 68 Bealls Inc. stores are in the United States. All 68 stores are in Florida, making up 100% of Bealls Inc locations in the US.
Here are some of the cities in Florida with Bealls Inc. stores and their respective counts:
- Naples: 3 stores
- Ft Myers: 2 stores
- Lakeland: 2 stores
- St Petersburg: 2 stores
- Sarasota: 2 stores
- Ocala: 2 stores
- Cape Coral: 2 stores
- Bradenton: 2 stores
- Port St Lucie: 2 stores
- Inverness: 1 store
Is Bealls the Same As TJ Maxx?
Bealls is not part of the TJ Maxx and Marshalls family; it remains a family business. The Beall family has privately owned and operated it.
Founded in 1915 by 22-year-old Robert M. Beall, Bealls is currently led by his direct descendant, the CEO, Matt Beall.
What Is The Future Of Bealls?
Bealls Department Stores is expected to invest in digital transformation initiatives. This has strengthened its online presence and utilized digital marketing strategies to engage a broader customer base in response to the growing influence of e-commerce.
Focusing on delivering exceptional customer experiences. Bealls aims to prioritize personalization, convenience, and seamless channel integration by leveraging data-driven insights to tailor its product offerings to meet evolving customer needs.
To adapt to changing market dynamics, Bealls plans to monitor emerging trends, competitive forces, and evolving customer expectations, potentially exploring strategic partnerships, collaborations, or acquisitions to enhance its product portfolio and expand into new markets.
In response to increasing consumer emphasis on sustainability and social responsibility, Bealls is expected to integrate environmentally friendly practices, ethical sourcing, and community initiatives to foster stronger customer loyalty and differentiate itself in the market.
While anticipating challenges such as intensified competition and economic fluctuations, Bealls aims to stay agile, innovate continuously, and leverage its established brand reputation to identify and seize growth opportunities, ensuring its future success in the evolving retail landscape.
Who Are The Competitors Of Bealls?
Bealls is a department store chain offering clothing, footwear, accessories, and home goods. According to Owler, some of Bealls’ top competitors include:
Boscov’s:
A family-owned department store founded in 1911. It is known for its diverse product range, including:
Clothing
Footwear
Jewelry
Beauty products.
It has over 50 stores. Boscov’s is recognized for its customer service and competitive pricing.
Dillard’s:
Established in 1938, Dillard’s boasts over 250 stores across the United States. It specializes in high-end clothing, footwear, accessories, and beauty products. It is acclaimed for excellent customer service.
JCPenney:
A department store chain founded in 1902. JCPenney operates over 600 stores. It offers a wide range of products at affordable prices, with frequent sales.
TJX:
A multinational off-price department store chain founded in 1956. TJX operates over 4,500 stores globally. It is known for discounted prices and a constantly changing inventory.
Target:
Founded in 1902, Target is a retail corporation with over 1,900 stores. It offers affordable prices and trendy merchandise across various product categories.
Ross Stores:
An American off-price department store chain was established in 1950. Ross Stores operates over 1,800 stores and is renowned for its discounted prices and frequently changing inventory.
Kohl’s:
Founded in 1962, Kohl’s is a department store chain with over 1,100 stores. It offers a diverse range of products at affordable prices, with frequent sales.
Walmart:
A multinational retail corporation founded in 1962. Walmart has over 11,000 stores worldwide. It is known for its discounted prices and extensive selection of merchandise.
Final Thoughts
In the end, contrary to speculations, Bealls is not going out of business. Instead, it has strategically closed some stores while maintaining its overall presence. Closing specific locations aligns with a broader strategy to enhance the company’s strength, productivity, and growth. Bealls remains committed to serving its customers and communities, adapting to industry changes, and leveraging its established brand.
Amidst the dynamic retail landscape, Bealls continues to thrive. It emphasizes transparency in official communications and showcases a proactive approach to the evolving market. As it navigates challenges and embraces opportunities, Bealls stands resilient, ensuring a prosperous and enduring future.
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