Today we’d like to introduce you to Brent Weiss.
Like many family-owned outfitters, Uncle Dan’s name has meaning behind it. According to the history of the store, 13-year-old Brent Weiss and his 15-year-old brother worked for their uncle, Dan Weinberg, at his Chicago dry goods store, Boyce Surplus. In 1971, their uncle passed away and the then 16-year-old Brent and his 18-year-old brother decided that they should open their own store.
Our adventure began in 1972 with a simple goal: help outfit the great people of Chicago to explore the outdoors.
What was once a small army navy surplus shop has grown to become so much more. We believe in carrying the best products, hiring passionate people and treating you as more than a customer, but as our neighbor and our friend.
Whether it’s navigating cold winters, camping in the mountains, or backpacking through Europe, Uncle Dan’s Outfitters is for everyone. All are welcome from travelers to hikers to walkers to campers to glampers to commuters to dog walkers. From path to pub, mountain to museum, we will outfit you from everyday urban adventures to exciting excursions abroad.
We don’t just sell the latest in clothing, footwear and gear, we’re all about quality. From partnering with the best brands in the industry to handpicking our collection each season, everything we recommend is something we would wear and use ourselves. We pride ourselves on our great team who really know the ins-and-outs of all things outdoors. They’re a bunch of passionate outdoor enthusiasts who want to share their knowledge and help you find exactly what you need.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Being in the retail business since 1972 (45 years) It has been similar to being on a roller coaster,
You know, it’s so interesting to me that a roller coaster ride could make you frightened, so scared, so sick, so excited, and so thrilled all together!
The only constant in retail is change. Today the most recent change we have made is giving our customers an Omni Channel experience which means they are able to shop online at UDANS.COM and pick up their item in store or have it shipped to them within 24 hours.
One of the challenges has been giving our customers an experience that is so memorable that after they leave our store they tell at least one person about how terrific it was.
So, let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Uncle Dan’s The Great Outdoor Store story. Tell us more about the business.
I am most proud of the exceptional customer experience our staff offers.
What sets us apart is the curated selection of great products and exceptional brands that you cannot find at any other retailer in the Chicago area.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
None.
You have to be dedicated and work hard.
Contact Info:
- Address:
Chicago – Lincoln Square
4724 N. Lincoln Ave.
Chicago, IL 60625
Chicago – Lakeview
3551 N Southport Ave.
Chicago, IL 60657 - Website: www.udans.com
- Phone: 773-271-1000 (Lincoln Square) and (773) 348-5800 (Lakeview)
- Email: sales@udans.com
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
