Retired Surgeon and Top Men's Apparel Exec Build An Unlikely Partnership in Men's High End Retail

Online, November 12, 2012 (Newswire.com) - Dr. Joel Korelitz, retired Cincinnati surgeon, and Chuck Hellman, former CEO of Robert Graham Apparel and 28 year veteran of the apparel industry, team up with the intent of providing Cincinnati with an invaluable service of making accessible clothing and brands they would not normally enjoy.

Having originally met through Blaine's while Joel was a loyal customer and Chuck was a helpful industry insider, the two had no idea their acquaintance would lead to a powerful partnership that would provide Cincinnati men with an impeccable hi-line and bespoke clothing shopping experience. Chuck had another reason for his visits from New York City to Cincinnati, because his father was ill. Dr. Korelitz visited the hospital regularly and provided the family the comfort of knowing they were receiving quality care, as well as interpret daily procedures. Chuck said "I felt indebted to him for all of the help and visitations that he gave to my family and dad and I thought here's a person I'd love to be in business with."

Their relationship grew as Dr. Korelitz retired from medicine and his role at Blaine's changed from customer to part-timer working in an industry that he could enjoy as an enthusiast and businessman, while Chuck provided the apparel industry expertise that Joel could rely on to excel in his chosen second career. Joel, Chuck and partner and CFO, Tim Needham acquired Blaine's and they set about taking Blaine's to new heights, focusing on increasing exclusivity through brand relationships such as Paul and Shark, Canali, Brioni, Eton, and J Brand and many others. Building on Chuck's relationship with Robert Graham, they have constructed a Robert Graham 'store within a store' carrying the full line rather than just a few select pieces, which is the industry norm.

Blaine's is intent on tailoring customer service to every client that comes through the door whether it is Cincinnati glitterati from the sports and entertainment industries, CEO's and business executives or women that shop for their men, that demand the very best. "We think that Blaine's should be the ultimate men's shopping experience with serious 'wow' factor" exclaims Chuck. Joel adds, "It is common for our clients to spend over an hour in the store each visit going over new arrivals and continuing to build their wardrobe. We take this time to get to know each client by name. Our sales manager, Bryan Witherspoon, takes pride in this and all elements of the exemplary service we strive to provide." Blaine's also hosts celebrity attended trunk shows in the store as a service to their discerning clientele looking for the finest world-class brands bought the way they are frequently purchased in fashion centers around the world.

Chuck and Joel are well-aware of the chance they are taking by continuing to foster the high-end nature of Blaine's growth, but they are risks that meet their tolerance levels which are admittedly heightened by and with their passion for the industry and for their partnership and friendship. Current and prospective clients can learn more about Blaine's apparel lines, trunk shows, and future events at http://www.blainesapparel.com.