TOMS RIVER, NJ – Chess King, a once-popular clothing store in the 80s with a location at Ocean County Mall, has a rich history. Established in 1968 by the Melville Corporation, the retailer quickly expanded to over 500 locations nationwide by the mid-1980s. However, despite its initial success, the chain eventually faced challenges that led to its closure in 1995.
The idea for Chess King emerged from market research conducted by traveling salespeople from Melville’s Thom McAn shoe business in 1967. Recognizing a niche in the market for young men’s clothing, the company capitalized on popular interests like chess and auto racing. This vision materialized with the opening of the first Chess King branch in Dedham, Massachusetts, in March 1968.
Described by The New York Times in 1970 as “teen-male apparel dress shops,” Chess King’s stores were characterized by bold designs aimed at appealing to the 12-to-20 male demographic. The concept resonated with consumers, leading to rapid expansion. By late 1972, the chain had already grown to about 150 locations, reaching 300 stores by 1978 and surpassing 500 stores by 1984.
In addition to its core stores, Chess King ventured into specialty retail with three spin-off brands in the late 1980s and early 1990s. These included “FreeFall,” offering designer labels for both men and women, “The B Club,” specializing in activewear, and “Garage,” featuring a 1950s-inspired decor. While successful in capitalizing on 1980s fashion trends, changing tastes in the 1990s posed challenges for the retailer.
Amidst shifting market dynamics, Melville Corporation opted to sell Chess King in March 1993 to Maryland-based Merry Go Round Enterprises (MGRE). However, MGRE’s subsequent Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in January 1994 marked the beginning of the end for Chess King. By November 1995, the chain had ceased operations, marking the conclusion of an era in men’s fashion retail.