Von Maur takes on New York

Regional department store retailer Von Maur isn’t so regional anymore following the opening of its first store in New York.

The opening of the 140,000-sq.-ft. two story unit just outside of Rochester at the Eastview Mall in the town of Victor, brings Von Maur’s store count to 28 and extends its presence far beyond core Midwestern markets. The closest Von Maur store is located in Columbus, Ohio. Next week, the company plans to open its 29th store at Riverchase Galleria Mall in Hoover, Ala. Located just outside of Birmingham, Ala., the three-level, 185,000-sq.-ft. store will be the company's first location in Alabama as well as one of the retailer’s largest stores in the country.

"After several years of exploring the market, we're excited to finally open our doors at Eastview Mall and make our mark in the Northeast," said Jim von Maur, president of the Davenport, Iowa-based chain. "The greater Rochester area is a vibrant community with a strong history of quality retailers. We look forward to building on this local history and providing shoppers with our unparalleled customer service, selection and overall shopping experience we've prided ourselves on for more than 140 years."

The company’s new unit anchors the Eastview Mall’s southwestern wing in the location of a former Bon Ton store that underwent a complete reconstruction. The store features a brick facade with arching entryways accented by a copper roof and cupolas. Inside, the design is said to accentuate Von Maur's residential ambiance, complete with antiques, original artwork and music from the store's grand piano. Fresh layouts in many departments, especially lingerie, juniors and handbags add ease to the shopping experience. An interactive, life-sized tree in children's is designed to entertain Von Maur's youngest shoppers while amenities such as an antique pub display piece, motorcycle and television are feature in the men's areas.