Deb Shops
Deb Shops was a specialty retail chain store in the United States that sold women's clothing and accessories under its own private labels as well as other labels. The company was based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and principally served junior and plus-sized women in their early teens through their late twenties. At its peak, Deb Shops operated 337 stores across 42 states.
History
The company was founded by Philip Rounick and Aaron Weiner, who opened their first store under the name JOY Hosiery in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1932. JOY Hosiery initially sold reasonably priced hosiery, lingerie, and foundations in a wide variety of styles. In 1939, it added nylon stockings to its inventory when those became available.
The company expanded in the Philadelphia area in the 1950s. Company Co-Founder Philip Rounick's son, Marvin Rounick, became more involved in the management of the company joining in 1961. Co-Founder Aaron Weiner's son, Warren Weiner, followed suit in 1965. During this time, the company observed the new phenomenon of suburban growth and construction of shopping malls. They responded by opening stores in several locations making them larger and offering more merchandise.
