Burlington Stores, which operates the Burlington Coat Factory chain, is an off-price retailer of high-quality branded merchandise at deep discounts, typically selling items for 60% off department store prices. Its first store opened in Burlington, N.J., in 1972. It now has around 1,100 stores in 46 states, and its merchandise assortment has expanded to include women’s ready-to-wear apparel, menswear, youth apparel, beauty products, and more. Like rival businesses including Ross Stores and TJX, Burlington not only sells close-out items that went unsold at department stores; it also offers merchandise made by top brands, which sell them directly to Burlington Stores.
Paul Weaver—SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images
Best Large Workplaces in Retail 2025
Employees say:
"Burlington truly is a caring company that offers everyone an opportunity to grow and flourish and reach their full potential within the organization. Burlington actively invests in the growth and advancement of its team members. I am proud to work for a company who considers the well-being of their associates and provides such a supporting environment for personal and professional development."
"All ideas are valued and heard. Senior leadership exudes the company's culture and encourages us to step out of our comfort zone. I have autonomy to make the decisions for my team and to take appropriate risks. My senior leadership truly listens and respects my opinions. We don't always agree, however I have never felt ashamed when redirected or my ideas were not implemented."
Best Large Workplaces in Retail 2023 Employees say:
"All ideas are valued and heard. Senior leadership exudes the company's culture and encourages us to step out of our comfort zone. I have autonomy to make the decisions for my team and to take appropriate risks. My senior leadership truly listens to my methodology and respects my opinions."