Stepping Through Time: The Heritage of Peltz Famous Brand Shoes

There are few names in American footwear retail that carry as much local legend and customer loyalty as Peltz Famous Brand Shoes. From a humble family venture to a beloved regional institution, the Peltz story is one of passion, community, and timeless devotion to quality and service.

A Family Dream Takes Root

The story begins in 1957, when Bernard and Gonna Peltz, a young couple with a clear vision, opened the very first Peltz store on Central Avenue in St. Petersburg, Florida. Their goal was simple yet bold: wherever they lived, "Peltz was going to mean shoes."

That dream grew quickly. With Bernard's sharp eye for fashion and quality, and Gonna's unwavering support, the brand became synonymous with wide selections, fair prices, and personalized service that customers couldn't find elsewhere.

As the store expanded to numerous locations, Bernard and Gonna's vision has expanded to encompass multiple generations.

Putting Customers First

What truly set Peltz apart from the beginning was their customer-first philosophy. Instead of just selling shoes, the family aimed to help people find the right shoes — the ones that fit perfectly, looked great, and felt comfortable through every step of life. This approach resonated deeply with shoppers and helped the business grow organically through community support and word-of-mouth loyalty.

As the years passed, Peltz continued to adapt — from boutique-style spaces to a modern retail format — but the ethos remained the same: caring for customers with honest, personable service.

Growth & Innovation Over Generations

From that single storefront in downtown St. Pete, the Peltz legacy expanded into multiple retail locations across Florida — including Clearwater, Brandon, Bradenton, Sarasota, and Fort Myers — each serving thousands of loyal customers and visitors.

Alongside physical stores, the company embraced the digital age with PeltzShoes.com, becoming a multichannel merchant where customers nationwide could explore hundreds of brands, styles, and sizes from the comfort of home.

Despite growth and modernization — from warehouse expansions to advanced retail tech integrations — Peltz has preserved the essence of what started it all: authentic service, community connection, and commitment to a perfect fit.

A Legacy Built on Trust