Columbia, SC, September 25, 2025
News Summary
Perry Lancaster, a key figure at Brittons in Columbia, SC, celebrates 50 years with the store. His long career is marked by dedication to customer service and a personal touch. Lancaster’s unique approach includes personalized fitting assistance and handwritten notes to customers, reflecting his commitment to maintaining family and community ties, as he works alongside his wife, the store’s owner.
Columbia, SC – Perry Lancaster has marked a significant milestone in his career, celebrating 50 years at Brittons, a locally beloved clothing store. Starting his journey in the summer of 1975, Lancaster has dedicated nearly three decades to the store located at 2818 Devine Street. His tenure is remarkable in a landscape where retail jobs often have high turnover rates.
During Lancaster’s first days at Brittons, the landscape of America was quite different – Gerald Ford was the President, “Jaws” had just topped the box office, and the Eagles were ruling the music charts. Today, he remains passionate and engaged, emphasizing the importance of customer experience and attention to detail in his daily interactions.
One of the distinctive features of Lancaster’s approach is his readiness to assist customers with the perfect fit. Recognizable by his measuring tape draped around his neck and an array of straight pins at hand, he personalizes the shopping experience, a testament to his commitment to quality service. His philosophy reflects a broader trend in retail that prioritizes customer engagement and satisfaction.
Brittons holds a special significance for Lancaster, as he is married to Stacy Levinson, whose family founded the store in the 1940s. Following her brother’s retirement in 2017, Stacy became the sole owner, ensuring the store’s legacy continues under family management. The marriage of Lancaster and Levinson merges personal life with professional dedication, reinforcing the connection between family and community that the store embodies.
Known for his “passion for fashion,” Lancaster is integral to the daily operations of Brittons. He actively engages with customers, sending out approximately 25 handwritten notes each week to express thanks, announce special events, or offer condolences. This personal touch is a significant contributor to the store’s welcoming atmosphere.
His dedication is also evident in his personalized vehicle, which is adorned with a license plate reading “RAGMAN,” a nod to his long-standing career in the clothing industry. Colleagues like Heather Lester highlight his supportive nature, noting that he is willing to assist customers across both men’s and women’s clothing sections, fostering an inclusive shopping environment.
Longtime customer Hobart Trotter reinforces Lancaster’s influential role, stating that he is synonymous with Brittons. Lancaster’s involvement extends beyond sales; he recently aided a USC baseball player in finding attire suitable for a special occasion. His commitment to the customer experience has not waned, as he approaches his work with the same enthusiasm in 2025 as he did in 1975.
Over the years, Lancaster has also designed custom clothing for notable Gamecock figures, including ties for celebrated figures like Steve Spurrier. Brittons itself has evolved since it opened on Main Street in the 1940s, consolidating from four locations to its current spot on Devine Street. The store specializes in clothing aimed at Gamecock fans, maintaining deep-rooted ties to USC athletics. Through various gestures, such as sending birthday cakes to coaches, Lancaster has contributed actively to the local community.
The partnership between Perry and Stacy Lancaster reflects a shared commitment to uphold Brittons’ legacy. As they engage with both customers and fans, they create a warm environment that resonates throughout the community, continuing to foster relationships that have defined the store for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Perry Lancaster’s role at Brittons?
How long has Brittons been in operation?
What unique services does Perry Lancaster provide?
What community initiatives does Brittons participate in?
Key Features of Perry Lancaster’s Career at Brittons
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration at Brittons | 50 years |
| Personal Touch | Sends 25 personalized handwritten notes weekly |
| Family Connection | Married to the store’s owner, Stacy Levinson |
| Community Involvement | Engages in local events, acknowledges milestones with personalized gestures |
| Store’s Specialization | Carolina-centric and Gamecock-themed clothing |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- The State
- Wikipedia: Retail
- WLTX
- Google Search: Columbia South Carolina
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community
- The State
- Google News: Brittons Clothing Columbia
- Dignity Memorial
- Google Scholar: South Carolina retail trends
- Vogue
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Customer Service
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