Brennan's Men's Wear to close by end of year
by DAVID F. SHERMAN Managing Editor

A Buffalo-area tradition dating back to 1915 will come to an end this year.

Brennan's Men's Wear, 5522 Main St., will sell its remaining inventory and close for good by the end of December, according to manager Bob Goulding.

The firm was established by his grandfather and great-grandfather at Niagara and Hertel in Buffalo. After stints in smaller locations, the firm consolidated on Main Street in 2001.

Goulding said changing times have taken their toll on his firm.

"First and foremost, we are selling fewer suits and sport coats to members of the business sector," he said. "Even when you go into a car dealership, the salesman is wearing a golf shirt. Attorneys only dress up for clients. The business world has become pretty relaxed."

Goulding also said the effects of the Sept. 11 attacks remain prominent in the retail field. Consumers are still making smaller purchases and do so less frequently, just as they did after the attacks, he said.

Energy costs continue to limit spending, he added, with the high cost of natural gas last year and the rise in gasoline prices earlier this year also taking a toll.

"My customers are getting older. We just can't compete any more," he said.