News Summary
Rush Wilson Ltd., a renowned menswear store, commemorates its 75th anniversary this year, signifying a lasting commitment to quality clothing and community ties. Founded by Rush Wilson Jr. in 1950, the store has adapted through generations, now managed by Rush III and his son Jay. With a rich legacy and a focus on customer relationships, the store continues to thrive, embracing both tradition and modern strategies in Downtown Greenville.
Greenville, SC – Rush Wilson Ltd., a distinguished menswear store, proudly celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, marking a significant milestone in the world of fashion and community involvement. Founded in 1950 by Rush Wilson Jr. in Davidson, North Carolina, the store has transitioned through generations and has become a staple in the Greenville area since moving there in 1965. Now run by Rush Wilson III and his son Jay Wilson, the family business has continuously evolved while maintaining a dedication to quality clothing and exceptional customer service.
Founded shortly after Rush Wilson Jr.’s wedding, Wilson and Wright opened its doors on August 20, 1950. The inaugural sale featured a $2 tie, marking the start of what would become a long-standing tradition in menswear. In just a year, after Homer Wright sold his interest, Wilson Jr. sought out financial assistance to purchase the remainder of the store, leading to the renaming to Rush Wilson Ltd. After relocating to Greenville, the store solidified its presence in the community and became well-known for its distinct offerings.
Rush Wilson Jr. retired in 1998 but continued to influence the business until his passing in 2009. His son, Rush Wilson III, joined the family enterprise following his service in the Army and gaining experience in other professions. Rush III’s commitment to the store began at the tender age of 12, working part-time to comprehend the workings of retail. Over the years, the store has adapted to shifting trends, with a notable increase in emphasis on sportswear, which has become a major part of business operations, while made-to-measure clothing continues to attract clientele.
Customer relationships are fundamental to Rush Wilson Ltd.’s philosophy. The store prides itself on remembering customer preferences, which fosters loyalty and repeat business. Major brands featured at the store include Peter Millar, Johnnie-O, Duckhead, Emanuel Berg, Gitman Brothers, Samuelsohn, and Alden shoes, all recognized for their quality and fit.
Moreover, the marketing strategies have adapted to contemporary methods, incorporating social media campaigns to engage the community. One innovative initiative was the “Window Shopping Wednesday,” launched during the pandemic to maintain connections with customers. The growing influx of families and students in Greenville has also led to a surge in new clientele, further expanding the store’s reach and reinforcing its role in the local economy.
With the store now serving fourth-generation shoppers, there are plans for the business to continue thriving with aspirations of welcoming even the fifth generation under Jay Wilson’s future leadership. Jay returned to Rush Wilson Ltd. in 2014 after acquiring expertise in banking. His vision incorporates a balance between timeless American style and current fashion trends, aiming to keep the store relevant and appealing.
The store’s resilience through the evolving landscape of Downtown Greenville speaks volumes about its significance in the community. By celebrating milestones with loyal customers who appreciate the personal touch in service and quality products, Rush Wilson Ltd. reinforces its legacy. Jay Wilson hopes his daughters will one day follow in the family tradition, continuing the century-long commitment to expert menswear and customer satisfaction that started with Rush Wilson Jr. in 1950.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WWD: Rush Wilson Ltd. 75th Anniversary
- WYFF: Downtown Greenville’s Rush Wilson 75 Years
- Upstate Business Journal: Rush Wilson’s 70 Year Milestone
- Greenville Business Magazine: 2024 SC Best in Business
- Wikipedia: Rush Wilson Ltd.
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
