| (1909
- 1999) |
| Inducted: |
1980 |
| Region: |
MidWest |
| Industry: |
Retail
|
|
William M. Batten had an uncanny ability to look for and identify merchandising trends. He had the courage to stand behind what he believed, a trait that led to his position as president, CEO, and eventually chairman of the JC Penney Company, Inc. Batten took the basic sound policies of the JC Penney Company and added his progressive and challenging ideas. He introduced new and broader merchandise lines, expanded services to the suburbs, and found ways to increase profits. Batten was well respected for developing a genuine and caring relationship with his employees. |
