Dennis Gerdeman
Principal
Chute Gerdeman Retail

Denny Gerdeman’s hands-on approach aims to get the job done right the first time around. He prides himself on clear strategic thinking and ability to hone in on the realities of any given situation. Gerdeman’s communication skills have proven adept at brainstorming, advising, motivating, and listening, allowing him to capture core design objectives and map effective solutions for clients.

Gerdeman began his career in 1976 as a designer with The Limited, a position that exposed him to a wide range of international retailing. In 1989, he partnered with Elle Chute to form Chute Gerdeman Inc., now recognized as one of the nation’s top-grossing design firms. He has worked with a diverse range of clients such as Aramark, Ashley Stewart, Blockbuster, CompUSA, CVS, Donatos Pizza, Einstein Bros., Federated Department Stores, Hilton Grand Vacations, Kroger’s, Lane Bryant, Lowe’s, Marriott Vacation Club International, M&M’s World, Orange Lake Resort and Country Club, Pepsi, Red Lobster, Sara Lee Direct, 7-Eleven, Sheetz, Smithsonian Institution, Stride Rite, Thorntons, Timberland, Wal-Mart, Walt Disney Imagineering, Wolverine World Wide, and YUM! Brands.

Gerdeman studied architecture at The Ohio State University and is a member and past president of the Ohio Chapter of the Institute of Store Planners. He has served on the NASFM Board of Directors and now serves on the editorial advisory board of DDI magazine. His tenure in the industry, as well as Chute Gerdeman’s awards and recognition, have made him a well-known presence in the community of retailers, service providers, and manufacturers of consumer products.