Gimbels was a major American department store chain, famous for its rivalry with Macy's, holiday parades (the first Thanksgiving Day Parade!), and iconic city locations, but it was discontinued as the parent company BATUS liquidated the brand in 1987, closing its remaining 35 stores after a struggle against competitors like Sears and JCPenney, leaving behind a legacy in pop culture like Elf and Miracle on 34th Street.

Key Aspects of Gimbels:

Origins: Founded by Adam Gimbel in Vincennes, Indiana, in 1842, expanding to Milwaukee, Philadelphia, and New York City.

Iconic Status: Known for its grand flagship stores, especially in Philadelphia (8th & Market) and NYC (Herald Square), and its famous window displays.

Cultural Impact: Created the first Thanksgiving Day Parade (now Macy's) and featured in films like Miracle on 34th Street.

Decline & Closure: The chain faced tough competition, diluted its brand with suburban sprawl, and was eventually liquidated by its parent company (BATUS) in 1987.