Women's fashion retailer opens in Quincy Commons


Tuesday, November 14, 2006

By Betty Anders

Herald-Whig Staff Writer

Cato, a retailer of women's fashion apparel, opened for business Monday in the Quincy Commons, 36th and Broadway.

Cato offers clothing for girls, juniors and misses and plus sizes, as well as lingerie, outerwear, accessories and shoes. The target customer, according to district manager Gail White, is "the middle-class woman who wants a stylish appearance without the Niemann Marcus price tag."

Cato will be sharing with Party Plus the building that formerly housed Fashion Bug.

The chain, established in 1946, is the oldest specialty retailer of women's apparel in the country. According to the company's Web site, Cato currently operates 1,200 stores in 31 states. White said 100 new stores open each year under the names Cato and It's Fashion! The most recent opening was on Sept. 27 in Desoto, Mo.

White has found the Quincy community friendly and believes a sound customer base exists.

"We know that there are ladies from Hannibal and Quincy who already frequent our stores in Keokuk, Wentzville and Troy, so now they will be able to stay local to shop," she said.

Cato will bring about six local jobs to the area, two of which will be full-time. White said Cato is a civic-minded company that has a "grass roots" allowance built in.

"This is funding and merchandise contributions to meet local needs and to support community events," she said.

A grand opening event is scheduled for Wednesday. The first 500 customers will receive a pocket mirror, and those who spend $30 or more will receive a Cato tote bag (while supplies last). Hours of operation will be 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 12 to 6 p.m. on Sunday.

On The Web: www.catofashions.com.