Timeless Tradition: Gotskind's Celebrates 90 Years of Serving Families

In an era of impersonal retail experiences, one family-owned business in Naperville, Illinois, has stood the test of time, preserving a personal touch that has captivated generations of customers. Gotskind's Children's Shoes & Clothing, a 90-year-old institution, is commemorating its remarkable legacy with a celebratory event that promises to transport visitors back to a bygone era of genuine customer service and community connection.

Honoring a Century-Old Legacy of Personalized Care

Roots in the Great Depression

Gotskind's Children's Shoes & Clothing traces its origins back to the Great Depression, when Saul Gotskind, a Polish immigrant, had the courage to open a small shoe store in Chicago's Austin neighborhood. Despite the economic challenges of the time, Saul's vision and dedication to providing exceptional customer service laid the foundation for a business that would endure for decades.Saul's son, David Gotskind, recounts the humble beginnings of the family enterprise, where Saul and his wife, Claire, lived in the back of the store until the birth of their first child. This unwavering commitment to the business, even in the face of personal sacrifices, exemplifies the Gotskind family's unwavering dedication to their customers and community.

Expanding Horizons, Preserving Tradition

As the decades passed, Gotskind's evolved, expanding its footprint to include locations in Oak Park and Oakbrook Terrace. However, the core values instilled by Saul Gotskind remained steadfast, with David Gotskind and his daughter, Andrea Hamad, carrying on the family's legacy of personalized service and attention to detail.The Naperville location, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, has become the sole remaining outpost of the Gotskind's empire, a testament to the enduring appeal of the brand's commitment to its customers. Under Andrea's leadership, the store has maintained its old-school charm, with a calculator at the register and a focus on providing a warm, welcoming experience for every visitor.

A Family Affair: Passing the Torch

The Gotskind family's involvement in the business spans generations, with Andrea Hamad following in the footsteps of her father and grandfather. From a young age, Andrea was immersed in the store's operations, blowing up helium balloons and working the cash register, developing a deep appreciation for the family's legacy.As the oldest of three siblings, Andrea was the only one who truly embraced the family business, drawn to the unique charm and personal touch that set Gotskind's apart. Her decision to return to the store after a corporate career elsewhere underscores the powerful pull of the family's entrepreneurial spirit and the desire to preserve the store's timeless traditions.

Celebrating 90 Years of Serving Families

As Gotskind's Children's Shoes & Clothing commemorates its 90th anniversary, the upcoming celebration on July 20th promises to be a joyous occasion that pays homage to the store's rich history. Naperville Mayor Scott Wehrli will be in attendance, and the festivities will include refreshments and a visit from a princess clown, catering to the store's long-standing commitment to catering to the needs of children and families.For Andrea Hamad, the milestone represents more than just a numerical achievement; it's a testament to the enduring power of personalized service and the unwavering dedication of the Gotskind family. In an era where impersonal retail experiences have become the norm, Gotskind's stands as a shining example of how a family-owned business can thrive by staying true to its roots and prioritizing the needs of its community.As Gotskind's embarks on its next chapter, the Hamad family's vision remains clear: to continue being a "neighborhood store" that provides a warm, welcoming environment where families can find the perfect fit for their children's footwear and apparel. By preserving the store's old-school charm and personal touch, Gotskind's ensures that its legacy will continue to inspire and delight generations to come.