Rich Tradition
Since 1888, the Southern woman has come to rely on Belk first, for her, for her family, for life. What began as a small bargain store in Monroe, NC has grown into the nation's largest privately held department store. Founder William Henry Belk's dedication to friendly service, fair prices and community involvement hasn't changed – in fact, it's stronger than ever.
1888
24-year old William Henry Belk opens his first store in Monroe, NC with $750 in savings, a $500 loan, and $3,000 worth of goods taken on consignment. Thinking an impressive name is a must, he names it the New York Racket Store.
It works. So much that he realizes his own name is even more impressive.
He convinces his brother, Dr. John Belk, to join as his partner. The business begins to flourish, often through store partnerships with trusted businessmen.
1988
Belk celebrates its 100th anniversary, in 300 stores across 16 states.
2004
Tim Belk is named chairman and CEO. His brothers — Johnny and McKay — are named president and chief operating officer, and president and chief merchandising officer, respectively. Under their guidance, they acquire other key department stores, including Proffitt’s, McRae’s and Parisian, completing a dominant market share.
2008
Belk.com launches, giving shoppers a whole new way to get the fashion they desire and the value they deserve.
2010
Belk rebrands itself. A fresh new logo and tagline firmly re-establishes Belk as the retail destination for "Modern. Southern. Style."
Belk also embraces the power of social media with the addition of the Belk Blog, as well as a solid presence on facebook and Twitter.
2011
Belk remodels and renovates many of their stores, offering shoppers an even better shopping experience.
Belk gains a national presence as the first annual Belk Bowl football game is broadcast nationally. As a result, millions of TV viewers outside of Belk’s geographical footprint are introduced to Belk and Belk.com.
The Future
Belk currently occupies 29 million feet of retail space, and continues to grow and prosper. With a rich history and a bright future ahead, Belk continues to blaze a trail as America’s leading purveyor of "Modern. Southern. Style."
In 2013, Belk will commemorate its 125th anniversary with a year-long celebration full of events that promises to be fun and exciting for all.
Belk continually commits to embracing cutting-edge technology and game-changing innovations. We look forward to giving our shoppers the power to get the fashion they desire and the value they deserve via their smart phone with the forthcoming launch of the Belk mobile shopping app.
