DETROIT — It is the end of an era for the city.
After more than 130 years in business, Dittrich Furs, Detroit’s oldest privately held business and a longtime fashion landmark, has announced it will permanently close its doors as its owners retire.
The announcement was made Saturday on the company’s website and social media channels by the fifth-generation Dittrich family, citing the decision to step away from the business and focus on family health and well-being.
Founded in 1893, Dittrich Furs has served Detroit and Southeast Michigan for five generations, becoming a fixture in the city’s fashion history through its craftsmanship, personal service, and specialty in fur and natural material garments.
In a letter addressed to customers, the family said the decision was made “with deep gratitude—and a somewhat heavy heart,” marking the close of what they described as a remarkable era defined by relationships, traditions, and decades of loyal clientele.
As part of the closure, the company announced a retirement liquidation sale. According to the family, the entire inventory of more than 3,000 items—valued at over $9 million—will be sold at 70% off, which they say represents the lowest prices ever offered by the business. Customers are encouraged to shop early for the best selection.
“Serving this community has been our esteemed privilege,” the family wrote, adding that Dittrich Furs will forever remain part of Detroit’s history because of its customers.
The Dittrich Furs store is located at 7373 Third Ave. in Detroit’s New Center area.
With its closing, Detroit loses not just a retailer, but one of the last remaining family-run institutions that connected the city’s present to its 19th-century past.
- NMD Staff
Staff@NewMediaDetroit.com