Is Norm Thompson Still in Business?

Norm Thompson Outfitters was a well-known catalog and online retailer that specialized in outdoor and casual clothing, footwear, and accessories. The company had a long history, having been founded in 1949 by Norman A. Thompson in Portland, Oregon. Over the years, it built a reputation for offering high-quality products and exceptional customer service. However, like many other retailers, Norm Thompson faced challenges in the ever-evolving retail landscape.

Is Norm Thompson still in business? No, Norm Thompson is no longer in business. The company ceased operations in 2016. The parent company, Orchard Brands, which owned Norm Thompson, decided to shut down the brand as part of a broader restructuring effort. This decision was influenced by various factors, including changes in consumer preferences, increased competition, and the rise of e-commerce giants.

The History of Norm Thompson

Norm Thompson Outfitters began as a small business venture in 1949, focusing primarily on outdoor gear and clothing. Over the decades, it expanded its product range to include casual and travel wear, catering to a broader audience. The company became known for its high-quality merchandise and unique offerings, often featuring items that were difficult to find elsewhere.

In the 1980s and 1990s, Norm Thompson capitalized on the growing trend of catalog shopping, sending out millions of catalogs to customers across the United States. This approach allowed the company to reach a wider audience and build a loyal customer base. The advent of the internet further expanded its reach, as Norm Thompson launched an online store to complement its catalog business.

Challenges and Closure

Despite its initial success, Norm Thompson faced significant challenges in the 21st century. The retail industry underwent profound changes, with the rise of e-commerce giants like Amazon and the shift in consumer shopping habits. Traditional catalog and brick-and-mortar retailers found it increasingly difficult to compete with the convenience and variety offered by online platforms.

In 2015, Norm Thompson’s parent company, Orchard Brands, was acquired by Bluestem Brands, a multi-brand online retailer. As part of the acquisition, Bluestem Brands conducted a thorough review of its portfolio and decided to discontinue several underperforming brands, including Norm Thompson. The decision to shut down Norm Thompson was finalized in 2016, marking the end of an era for the once-popular retailer.

Norm Thompson’s closure reflects the broader challenges faced by many traditional retailers in adapting to the rapidly changing retail landscape. While the brand is no longer in business, its legacy lives on through the memories of its loyal customers and the impact it had on the outdoor and casual clothing market.