REST IN PEACE BURT TANSKY, NOVEMBER 1937-MARCH 2025

MR magazine is saddened to report the recent passing of Burton Tansky (aka Mr. Luxury) at age 87. He was a respected leader in luxury retail, described by those who knew him best as a man of elegance, vision, and dedication. The son of immigrant parents, he valued hard work and integrity but was equally admired for his warmth, generosity, and humor.

After graduating from the University of Pittsburgh, Tansky started his retail career at Kaufmann’s in Pittsburgh and then Filene’s in Boston. He ultimately worked his way from mid-market department stores to top management spots at luxury giants Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, and Neiman Marcus. His favorite pastime was said to be “walking the floors”—where he learned (and taught) much about retailing: what works, what doesn’t, and why. In addition to his merchandising expertise, he was an early believer in online shopping, even at the luxury level. He was also known for his generous views on work/life balance. As former Lord&Taylor president Brendon Hoffman put it, “He gave me a ton of responsibility but always made sure I left the office in time for dinner.”

Says Tom Ott, former VP at Saks Fifth Avenue, “Burt Tansky was an amazing leader. He was great with his teams, always ensuring a clear merchandising message would run through the merchants into the stores and out to our customers. He was always a fair partner to his brands, thereby guaranteeing mutual success.”

And from Russ Patrick, who worked for Tansky at Neiman Marcus: “Burt Tansky made a lasting and positive mark on the luxury market, creating a legacy that influenced countless merchants, brands, and individuals. Personally, he educated and motivated me to become not just a stronger merchant but also a better person.”

“From day one, his vision for Neiman Marcus was clear. He sought to quickly elevate our assortment, store environment, and customer service, knowing that the luxury market in America had immense potential at the pinnacle of quality and design. Importantly, Mr. Tansky drove us to increase our focus on discovering products of exceptional workmanship and to embrace value over mere price.”

“He represented Neiman Marcus to the international community with passion, intellect, deep knowledge, and sharp wit that enabled many luxury brands to attain the success they enjoy today. As a true merchant, ‘Mr. Luxury’ appreciated all levels of retail. I vividly remember him walking into my office one Monday morning with a stack of cashmere sweaters—no labels. He plopped them on my desk and asked for my opinion on their design and quality. The sweaters were from his weekend trip to Costco and thus began his mission to ensure we deliver far superior quality within our private label program. It was a powerful lesson in understanding the full spectrum of the market; I continue to shop the apparel tables at Costco and think of him fondly with each visit.”

“As a young buyer, I had the privilege of celebrating an award with Mr. Tansky over lunch. I was given the choice of eating at Sonny Bryan’s barbecue or a fancy outing at The Mansion on Turtle Creek. I chose the rare opportunity to dine at The Mansion, and though I was quite nervous, it became one of the most enjoyable meals of my career. Mr. Tansky appreciated the afternoon too but later confessed he’d secretly hoped I would choose the barbecue…”

Tansky’s philanthropic endeavors centered on culture and community and included notable support to Jupiter Hospital & Cancer Center, Phoenix House, University of Pittsburgh, and Temple Judea in Palm Beach Gardens. He is survived by his adored wife of 67 years, Rita; his loving children, Hyla (Eric) and Michael (Ellen); treasured grandchildren, Emily, Coby, and Sascha; his dear sister Eva (Norman); and countless wonderful friends and followers who carry forward his vision and his remarkable joie de vivre.