Cox's

Cox's Department Store was a beloved regional retailer that operated a branch in Monroeville Mall during the 1970s. Originally a major fixture of downtown McKeesport, the company expanded into several Pittsburgh-area malls before filing for bankruptcy in 1982.

History and Operations

• Expansion to Monroeville: Following the success of its modern flagship store in McKeesport (opened in 1955), Cox's expanded into suburban malls, including Monroeville Mall, during the 1970s.
• Store Offerings: The store was known for high-quality merchandise, including children's clothing, men's wear, and footwear. It also hosted unique community events like "Charm School" for local youth on Saturday mornings.
• Local Competitors: In the mall, Cox's competed with other major department stores of the era, such as Gimbels, Horne's, and JCPenney.

Closure and Legacy

• Bankruptcy: The company struggled during the economic recession of the early 1980s, which saw high unemployment in the Pittsburgh region. Cox's filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on November 2, 1982.
• Final Days: By 1983, the suburban mall locations had closed, leaving only the original McKeesport flagship store operational for a short time before it also shut down.