Gimbel

Gimbel is a surname of German origin. It is found among German and Jewish communities in Europe and North America, and has been borne by several individuals in business, journalism, and the arts.

The most widely known use of the name in popular culture is the Gimbels department store, a major American retailer named after its founders. Established in the late 19th century, the chain expanded to multiple cities and became a prominent feature of mid-20th-century retail, renowned for its breadth of merchandise, advertising campaigns, and in-store experiences. Gimbels faced intense competition from other national chains in the latter half of the 20th century. In 1986, Macy's acquired Gimbels' assets, and the remaining stores were phased out within a year, marking the end of Gimbels as an independent retail brand. The Gimbels name, however, endures in historical records and in the study of American retail and brand development.

Beyond commerce, Gimbel is a family surname shared by various individuals who have contributed to business, government, and culture. Because of its association with the department store, the name Gimbel is often cited in discussions of American retail history and branding.