60 Years
of Coffman’s Mens Wear
Originally founded by George Coffman, Coffman’s Mens Wear has built a strong reputation for carrying
the finest in men’s fashions, while upholding its tradition of quality, style and exemplary customer service.
1956
Mr. Coffman purchases Batchelor Brothers.
1957
1 Year Anniversary Sale Ad.
1959
First Grady White boat built in Greenville.
1960
1960
Hardee’s restaurant opened in Greenville.
1967
Origins of Polo Ralph Lauren begin with neckwear line.
1967
ECTC becomes ECU.
1968
The doors swing open on a completely modernized Coffman’s in the old JC Penny Building. The space is a handsome contemporary appointment with added space, gentle lighting, sensible air conditioning and much, much more.
1968
Coffman’s attends Pitti show in Florence, Italy and continues to do so for the next 44 years.
1970
Canali brings its Italian made suits to the US.
1970
Coffman’s used English Taxi Cab to make deliveries.
1970
Christmas ‘70 mail order catalog.
1977
ECU School of Medicine was established.
1979
Carolina East Mall location opening announcement.
1980
Fall 1980 Norman catalog.
1986
Congrats George Coffman on 30 years of service.
1988
Bill joins after receiving MBA from Elon.
1988
Hart Schaffner and Marx celebrates 100th anniversary. It is the only line still carried in store from 1956.
1990
John returns from Hart Schaffner and Marx to join the family business.
1990
Lynndale Shoppes location opens.
1992
Down 34-17 with 8:41 to go and its never-say-die fans chanting “We believe,” East Carolina mustered an incredible rally to overcome North Carolina State, 37-34, in the 24th Annual Peach Bowl. (Mike Grizzard, Daily Reflector)
1993
Downtown shop is closed, locations are consolidated to Red Banks store.
1996
Todd Howell joins staff.
1996
Coffman’s 40th Anniversary.
1998
The Little League World Series is played in Williamsport, PA. The Greenville Little League team loses to Toms River, New Jersey. Toms River, New Jersey, USA defeats Kashima, Ibaraki, Japan in the Championship Game.
1999
Hurricane Floyd – Flood of the Century.
2000
First robotic heart valve surgery in the US performed at Brody School of Medicine at ECU by Dr. Randolph Chitwood.
2001
ECU alumnus Chris Knott starts Peter Millar with an offering of 12 cashmere sweaters.
2004
Nominated by the Industry Vendors in 2004 as “one of the most exciting specialty retailers in America”.
2006
50th anniversary.
2007
ECU Centennial.
2008
In July 2008, Coffman’s Mens Wear was honored with the Uptown/Downtown Award by MR Magazine, the leading men’s fashion trade publication.
2008
Coffman’s opens first Peter Millar Crown Shop in the World.
2011
ECU School of Dental Medicine opens.
2016
Coffman’s celebrates 60 Years!
2018
Peter Millar Shop Renovated.
2021
Johnnie O Shop Opens.
