Part of a more refined era in haberdashery in Duluth is coming to a close.
Allenfall's, which has been selling quality gentlemen's clothing downtown since 1940, is going out of business, owners said Thursday.
Thirty-year employee and part-owner John Mohn said changing demographics, changing culture and a changing uniform all contributed to the decision to close the business.
"Throw in the last 24 months of an economic situation that's been challenging to businesses, and long-term projections don't see any of that changing," he said.
He also said the biggest reason for closing at this time is that how people dress for business has changed.
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"There's less tailored clothing being worn," he said.
Located at 324 W. Superior St., Allenfall's has served male clientele with brands such as Robert Talbot, Alan Paine and Barbour. The clothing is made in the U.S. and is of an investment quality, Mohn said. The clothier sold women's apparel from the early 1960s until 1999.
Harry Allenfall started the business and ran it until he died unexpectedly during a buying trip to New York City in 1955. Until 2003, Leo Spooner owned Allenfall's and served as its CEO. Ruby Allenfall, Harry's widow, also continued as an active force in the business for many years. In 2003, Ed Gould III purchased the business from Spooner when he retired.
Gould now plans to retire and most of the six employees, save Mohn, are also of retirement age, Mohn said.
Allenfall's customers received letters in the past week telling them of the store's plans to close Oct. 1.
Most of those customers were the major businessmen and CEOs in the region, Mohn said.
Mohn has been taking calls from customers, who have told him it's sad and that the store and clothing would be missed.
"I can't say enough kind things about people we've done business with," he said. "It's been a wonderful experience."
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At 9 a.m. Monday, the store's liquidation sale will begin with "legendary" savings on all men's clothing, furnishings, sportswear and shoes. The furniture, fixtures, office and display items will also be for sale.
