Doneckers strives for customer satisfaction with its friendly and knowledgeable sales personnel.

Premier Business Partners:

Canvasbacks

A single real estate acquisition in 1949 led to the creation of Doneckers, a retail community. The Ephrata, Pa.-based clothing retailer since has expanded to include home décor, a restaurant and several guest inns.

This family-owned business has always been rooted in Lancaster County’s quaint, small-town atmosphere. In 1949, C. Paul Donecker and his son, Bill Donecker, began a mail order business called the C. Paul Donecker Club Plan. The main store, located at 409 N. State St., was purchased in 1957. This former tobacco warehouse was converted into a showroom for furniture and dry goods.

Doneckers incorporated more members of the family when Bill Donecker’s mother, wife and sister became involved in 1961. A dress store occupying three apartments was the first business venture. Seven years later, the family opened the Carriage Room, which featured boutique women’s clothing, and the Loft, which contained sportswear.

Additionally, in 1968, the Donecker family purchased a children’s clothing store in Shillington, Pa. This location was renamed Young World and later moved to the flagship Ephrata location. The 6,000-square-foot space was turned into a men’s store in 1978. Two years later, a store called Home Fashions opened across the street at the former site of a grocery store. This space was later moved to the lower level of 409 N. State St.

New Endeavors
In 1980, the family sought additional revenue by attaching its name to several bed-and-breakfast establishments. The family opened the Guesthouse, comprised of two adjoining Victorian buildings. Originally, 12 rooms were available, but in 1986, another house was added with seven rooms.

In 1984, the family moved Home Fashions to make room for a restaurant. Bill Donecker’s interest in American cuisine helped establish a fine dining and tavern-style eatery. Four years later, more rooms were added to the original bed-and-breakfast locations. Also in 1984, the Donecker family acquired the 1777 House. This building was restored to house larger guest rooms with fireplaces and Jacuzzis.

Doneckers added a fine arts location called Artworks in 1989. Three years later, a grocery store called Farmer’s Market opened. This location featured fresh produce and meats from Lancaster County. In 1993, an additional bed-and-breakfast location called Homestead was added to the inns. The contemporary building brought the number of guest rooms to a total of 35.

In 1994, a banquet hall was opened at the Artworks location. This dining facility specializes in receptions with a capacity of 450. A year later, La Fleur Boutique opened as a full-service floral shop. In 1998, Doneckers opened an exclusive department featuring holiday items by Christopher Radko. A year later, the family opened its Fine Furniture galleries. These galleries occupy 48,000 square feet on four floors. “The finest of furniture at the lowest possible prices,” Bill Donecker said in a statement.

Contemporary Taste
Doneckers satisfies its customers’ needs with high-end products. The Carriage specializes in occasional, daytime and evening dresses. Selections include petite, missy and women’s sizes. Wedding gowns are also available with additional outfits made to match for the mother of the bride. Seamstresses are on staff to handle alterations.

The rest of the women’s section at Doneckers includes casual sportswear, coats, suits and shoes. Some of the brands available are Pendleton, Canvasbacks and Vericci. Women will also find accessories such as jewelry, handbags and scarves. Doneckers’ cosmetics department carries fragrances and cosmetics by several brands. Personal consultations and makeovers are also available.

The Men’s Store at Doneckers features suits and sportcoats by brands including Burberry, Calvin Klein and Kenneth Cole. A tailor shop is located on the premises for any customization needs. Doneckers also carries a variety of polo shirts, khakis and jeans for men. Accessories include ties, belts, watches and footwear.

In addition, Young World children’s store carries clothing for school, special occasions and recreation.