A Long History of Community Support

Located in Brewer, W.S. Emerson has been in the wholesale apparel business for just over a century, currently employs over 50 full-time individuals, and all contribute to the success of the company.

Beginning in 1921 on Central Street in Bangor, Walter Emerson opened the doors to this family owned business. “Uncle” John Vickery was Walter’s first employee and later became the general manager. The sales team traveled throughout Maine selling national and private apparel brands to retailers. W.S. Emerson was rapidly growing and their need for more room became evident. A four story brick building was purchased on Exchange Street in Bangor. In 1950, John Vickery brought in his brother, Winslow, to help with the growth of the business, who later became President and GM. The brothers grew a corporate culture that emphasized family and hard work. “Uncle” John Vickery purchased W.S. Emerson in 1952, after the passing of Walter Emerson. Winslow expanded the business by leasing departments within Robert Miller’s retail stores throughout Maine. In 1965, Urban Renewal took the building on Exchange Street. Needing a new building, 15 Acme Road in Brewer was built.

After the death of Winslow in 1982, a new generation took over. Winslow’s sons, John and Russ, became President and Vice President. Business flourished during the 1980s with both the retail and wholesale divisions of the company expanding. As the 1990s arrived, so did big-box retailers, dramatically changing the business climate. In one year, over 2,500 of W.S. Emerson’s retail accounts closed their businesses. Reinventing the W.S. Emerson Company became the Vickerys top priority. Demand for customized apparel in the retail and wholesale sectors became main-stream. Using their strong relationship with suppliers and partners, the brothers invested in embroidery and screenprinting equipment. New technology was added and gave the Vickerys a new avenue to continue to expand their business offerings.

Today, W.S. Emerson is third generation owned. John Jr. and Betsy Vickery took the reins in 2013, building on modern and efficient technology while keeping to their roots of community support.

Their focus is on products and services that deliver an experience for the customer, along with developing eCommerce capabilities which offer innovative ideas and creative solutions that reach beyond the state. W.S. Emerson looks for ways to foster the need of feeling

COURTESY OF W.S. EMERSON

connected as a team with a shared purpose and identity — whether there are thousands of miles between teammates or just a few feet.

John and Betsy know the W.S. Emerson team is vital, hiring throughout the local community for over 100 years. Emphasizing collaboration, W.S. Emerson leadership employs highly skilled and talented people who design, manufacture, and fulfill products. Ranging from uniforms, Years of Service Recognition, and support gifts, W.S. Emerson fosters and supports people, businesses, and communities throughout Maine, New England, and beyond. W.S. Emerson continues focusing on its commitment to delivering quality products and experiences. While celebrating 2023 with a new look, W.S. Emerson is rooted to its original tenets that still support them as a family and a company.