| (1872
- 1967) |
| Inducted: |
1993 |
| Region: |
Northeast |
| Industry: |
Retail
|
|
L. L. Bean, a 40-year-old hunter and fisherman, made a hunting boot with a leather top and a rubber bottom. He believed in his new boots so much he started selling them through the mail to fellow sportsmen, promising refunds if customers weren't satisfied. They weren't–90 of his first 100 pairs fell apart. He kept his word and refunded the full price, then he borrowed $400 and used it to perfect the boot. Today, L.L. Bean, Inc. continues to replace or repair faulty goods, sometimes years after they are sold. |
