How I Built This with Guy Raz

Men's Wearhouse: George Zimmer

Apr 15, 2019
George Zimmer, the founder and former CEO of Men's Wearhouse, shares his journey from uncertain college graduate to retail mogul with the iconic tagline, "You're going to like the way you look. I guarantee it." He reveals how a pivotal business trip to Asia inspired his fashion venture, leading to the creation of a brand that revolutionized affordable men's suits. Zimmer discusses branding strategies, the impact of his famous slogan, and the challenges of navigating leadership changes and his eventual ousting, all while maintaining a vision for confident customer experiences.
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ANECDOTE

Maternal Influence

  • George Zimmer credits his mother for instilling a strong sense of self-belief, even though he didn't initially recognize it.
  • This confidence, he realized later, played a crucial role in his entrepreneurial journey and risk-taking.
ANECDOTE

Trip to Asia

  • Zimmer's father, a clothing manufacturer, asked him to go on a business trip to Asia to explore manufacturing opportunities.
  • This trip marked the beginning of Zimmer's business experience and exposed him to the apparel industry.
ANECDOTE

Dallas and Houston

  • After a brief stint on the McGovern campaign, Zimmer's father offered him a sales job in Dallas.
  • A significant account loss in Houston led Zimmer to realize the lack of understanding in apparel retail, particularly in discounting.
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