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In 1996, Witmark experienced its fourth consecutive year of declining sales and earnings, and the company announced changes to its operating strategy. Unfortunately, vast barriers—such as long-term leases on real estate—limited the company's ability to adapt to the changing business climate. The
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Over its nearly 30-year history, Witmark dominated the jewelry market with an average of a 34% market share. The organization made it a point to develop and keep close ties with the communities the stores served.
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By the early 1990s, Witmark's earnings began to decrease due to continued involvement in unprofitable categories outside of jewelry. Big box stores such as
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following year, Witmark liquidated its assets and laid off its 700+ employees. Like the larger national chains of catalog showrooms (such as
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This article is about the U.S. based specialty retail chain. For the Tin Pan Alley the music publisher, see
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Plainfield Township, MI Witmark Catalog Showroom. Opened 1969, demolished 2021.
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Grand Rapids Press: "Witmark
Closings Surprise Landlords"
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from 1969 to 1997. The chain was founded by Paul Leven.
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349:Witmark catalog from the 1997 spring season.
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409:1990s portal
395:1980s portal
381:1960s portal
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270:Circuit City
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103:October 2008
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45:Please help
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274:Toys "R" Us
251:electronics
220:Area served
419:Categories
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179:Paul Leven
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282:MC Sports
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