Bernice Fitz-Gibbon

Date of Birth: September 29, 1894

Zodiac Sign: Libra

Date of Death: February 22, 1982

Biography

Bernice Fitz-Gibbon, a pioneering American businesswoman, was one of the most influential figures in the field of retail advertising. Born in Waunakee, Wisconsin, Fitz-Gibbon began her career as a journalist before transitioning to advertising. Her innovative ideas and bold strategies revolutionized retail marketing during the 20th century. She is best known for her work with Macy’s and Gimbels, where she created some of the most memorable and effective advertising campaigns of the era. Her book, “Macy’s, Gimbels, and Me,” chronicles her experiences and contributions to the industry. Fitz-Gibbon’s work earned her a place in the Advertising Hall of Fame in 1981, solidifying her legacy as a trailblazer for women in business.

5 Interesting Facts about Bernice Fitz-Gibbon

1. Bernice Fitz-Gibbon coined the famous Macy’s slogan, “It’s smart to be thrifty.”

2. She was one of the first women to hold a top executive position in the advertising industry.

3. Fitz-Gibbon’s work with Gimbels included the creation of the iconic slogan, “Nobody, but nobody, undersells Gimbels.”

4. She was a mentor to many young women in the advertising industry, encouraging them to pursue their careers.

5. Fitz-Gibbon’s innovative window displays and in-store promotions set new standards in retail marketing.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Bernice Fitz-Gibbon

1. “Creativity often consists of merely turning up what is already there.”

2. “A good ad should be like a good sermon: It must not only comfort the afflicted, it also must afflict the comfortable.”

3. “The headline is the ‘ticket on the meat.’ Use it to flag down readers.”

4. “Advertising is a business of words, but advertising agencies are infested with men and women who cannot write. They cannot write advertisements, and they cannot write plans.”

5. “A store should be like a song of which you never tire.”