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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

SCHEDULE 14A

Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Amendment No.          )

Filed by the Registrantý

Filed by a Party other than the Registranto

Check the appropriate box:

o

 

Preliminary Proxy Statement

o

 

Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2))

ý

 

Definitive Proxy Statement

o

 

Definitive Additional Materials

o

 

Soliciting Material under §240.14a-12

 

THE BON-TON STORES, INC.

(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)

 

(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)

Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):

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No fee required.

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Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and 0-11.
  (1) Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies:
         
  (2) Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies:
         
  (3) Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (set forth the amount on which the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined):
         
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Fee paid previously with preliminary materials.

o

 

Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement number, or the Form or Schedule and the date of its filing.

 

 

(1)

 

Amount Previously Paid:
        
 
  (2) Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.:
         
  (3) Filing Party:
         
  (4) Date Filed:
         

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LOGO

2801 East Market Street
York, PA 17402
www.bonton.com

May 6, 20145, 2015

Dear Shareholder:

        You are cordially invited to attend our Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held at the Company's offices, 2801 East Market Street, York, Pennsylvania on Tuesday, June 17, 2014,16, 2015, beginning at 9:00 a.m.

        We are using the Securities and Exchange Commission rule that allows companies to furnish proxy materials over the internet. The proxy materials consist of our official notice of meeting, the proxy statement, the proxy card and our 20132014 Annual Report. We are mailing to many of our shareholders a notice that the proxy materials are available on our website rather than sending a paper copy of this proxy statement and our 20132014 Annual Report. We believe this electronic proxy process will expedite shareholders' receipt of proxy materials, conserve valuable natural resources and reduce the Company's costs of printing and distributing proxy materials.

        Your vote is important to us. Even if you plan to attend the meeting, please vote your shares by telephone or over the internet, or, alternatively, if you elect to receive a paper copy of the proxy card by mail, by signing, dating and mailing the proxy card in the postage-paid envelope provided. Instructions regarding these three methods of voting are contained in our proxy materials. If you attend the meeting, you may continue to have your shares voted as previously indicated or you may withdraw your proxy at the meeting and vote the shares in person.

 Sincerely,

 

 


GRAPHIC

 

Tim Grumbacher
Chairman of the Board


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LOGO


2801 East Market Street
York, PA 17402
www.bonton.com

NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING

        The Annual Meeting of Shareholders of The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. will be held on Tuesday, June 17, 2014,16, 2015, at 9:00 a.m., at the Company's offices, 2801 East Market Street, York, Pennsylvania.

        The purposes of the meeting are:

        Shareholders who owned shares of our stock at the close of business on April 17, 20142015 may attend and vote at the meeting. You may vote by telephone or over the internet or, if you elect to receive a paper copy of the proxy card by mail, you may vote by signing, dating and mailing the proxy card in the postage-paid envelope provided. Any shareholder attending the meeting may vote in person, even if he or she has already returned a proxy card or voted by telephone or over the internet.

  
GRAPHIC

 J. Gregory Yawman
Vice President—General Counsel and Secretary

York, Pennsylvania
May 6, 20145, 2015

        Please vote by telephone or over the internet as instructed on the proxy card or, if you have elected to receive a paper copy of our proxy materials by mail, complete, sign and date the proxy card as promptly as possible and return it in the envelope provided. If you vote by telephone or over the internet, do not return your proxy card.

IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING THE AVAILABILITY OF PROXY MATERIALS

FOR THE SHAREHOLDER MEETING TO BE HELD ON JUNE 17, 201416, 2015

        This proxy statement and the Company's Annual Report for the fiscal year ended February 1, 2014January 31, 2015 are both available in the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at www.bonton.com.


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TABLE OF CONTENTS

 
 Page

Voting Procedures and Security Ownership

 1

Outstanding Shares and Voting Rights

 1

Principal Shareholders

 3

Security Ownership of Directors and Executive Officers

 4

Proposal One: Election of Directors

 6

Corporate Governance and Board of Directors Information

 9

Governing Documents

 9

Code of Conduct

 9

Director Independence

 9

Leadership Structure

 9

Meetings of the Board of Directors

 10

Board Committees

 10

Role of the Vice Chairman

 12

Role of the Board in Risk Oversight

 1213

Director Nominations Process and Director Qualifications

 13

Director Attendance at Annual Meetings

 14

Shareholder Communication with the Board of Directors

 14

Compensation of Directors

 14

Share Ownership Guidelines

 15

Proposal Two: Approval, on an Advisory Basis, of Compensation of the Named Executive Officers

 17

Proposal Three: Ratification of the Appointment of the Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 18

Report of the Audit Committee

 19

Executive Compensation

 21

Compensation Discussion and Analysis

 21

Report of the Human Resources and Compensation Committee

 3334

Risk Considerations in our Compensation Policies

 3435

Summary Compensation Table

 3536

Grants of Plan-Based Awards

 3738

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

 3839

Option Exercises and Stock Vested During 20132014

 3940

Summary of Employment Agreements with Named Executive Officers

 4041

Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control

 4447

Equity Compensation Plan Information

 4650

Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance

 4650

Related Party Transactions

 4650

Shareholder Proposals

 4751

Householding of Proxy Materials

 4751

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THE BON-TON STORES, INC.
PROXY STATEMENT

        We are providing this proxy statement to solicit your proxy for use at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders (the "meeting"), which will be held at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 17, 2014.16, 2015. The proxy materials, which consist of the 20132014 Annual Report, the Notice of Annual Meeting, this proxy statement and the proxy card, are being made available to our shareholders on or about May 6, 2014.5, 2015.

        The Company is furnishing proxy materials over the internet pursuant to rules adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). We are mailing to many of our shareholders a notice that the proxy materials are available on our website. The notice provides instructions on accessing the proxy materials and submitting your proxy on-line. The notice also provides instructions for requesting paper copies of the proxy materials, which are available free of charge.

        We do not anticipate that any matters will be raised at the meeting other than those described in the Notice of Annual Meeting. If any other matters come before the meeting, your proxies will be authorized to act in accordance with their best judgment.

        When your proxy card is signed and returned, or you have submitted your proxy over the internet or by telephone, your shares will be voted in accordance with your instructions. If your proxy card is signed and returned without specifying choices, your shares will be voted "for" the Board nominees, "for" the approval of the compensation of the Named Executive Officers and "for" ratification of the appointment of KPMG LLP as independent registered public accounting firm.

        You may revoke your proxy before its exercise by notifying the Secretary of the Company in writing, by delivering a properly executed, later-dated proxy card, by submitting your proxy again over the internet or by telephone or by voting in person at the meeting.

        Your proxy is being solicited by the Board of Directors (the "Board"). We will bear the cost of this solicitation, including the charges of brokerage houses, nominees and fiduciaries in forwarding these materials to beneficial owners. This solicitation may be made in person, by telephone or by other means of communication by our directors, officers or employees.

        References in this proxy statement to a year refer to our fiscal year, which is the 52- or 53-week period ending on the Saturday nearer to January 31 of the following calendar year (for example, a reference to 20132014 is a reference to the fiscal year ended February 1, 2014)January 31, 2015).


VOTING PROCEDURES AND SECURITY OWNERSHIP

Outstanding Shares and Voting Rights

        Shareholders of record at the close of business on April 17, 20142015 are entitled to vote at the meeting. At that time, there were 17,576,26717,994,099 shares of common stock and 2,951,490 shares of Class A common stock outstanding. The common stock and the Class A common stock vote together on all matters. Holders of common stock are entitled to one vote per share and holders of Class A common stock are entitled to ten votes per share. There are no other classes of voting securities outstanding. In the election of directors, shareholders do not have cumulative voting rights.

        The presence at the meeting, in person or by proxy, of persons entitled to cast a majority of the shareholder votes will constitute a quorum.

        For Proposal One, the nominees receiving a majority of the votes cast by shareholders present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on Proposal One will be elected. (A majority of votes cast means that the number of votes cast "for" a director must exceed the number of votes cast "against" that director.) A proxy marked "withhold" with respect to the election of a director will


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will not be voted as to the director indicated, but will be counted for purposes of determining whether there is a quorum.

        For Proposal Two, an affirmative vote of the majority of the votes cast by shareholders present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on Proposal Two is required to approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of our Named Executive Officers as described in this proxy statement.

        For Proposal Three, an affirmative vote of the majority of the votes cast by shareholders present in person or represented by proxy at the meeting and entitled to vote on Proposal Three is required to approve the ratification of the appointment of KPMG LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm.

        Because your vote on Proposal Two is advisory, it will not bind the Board or the Human Resources and Compensation Committee of the Board. However, the Board and the Human Resources and Compensation Committee will review the voting results and take the results into consideration in making future determinations on executive compensation.

        Abstentions and broker non-votes are counted to determine whether a quorum is present at the meeting but are not counted as a vote in favor of or against a particular matter.

        If a broker, bank or other nominee holds your common stock for your benefit but not in your name, your shares are held in "street name." If you hold shares beneficially in street name and do not provide your broker with voting instructions, your shares may constitute "broker non-votes." Generally, broker non-votes occur on a matter when a broker is not permitted to vote on that matter without instructions from the beneficial owner and instructions are not given. Brokers are not entitled to vote on the election of directors or the advisory proposal to approve the compensation of our Named Executive Officers unless they receive voting instructions from the beneficial owner.

        If you own common stock in your own name, you are an "owner of record." This means you may direct the persons named as proxies how to vote your shares. If you fail to return your proxy, the proxies cannot vote your shares at the meeting.

        You have four voting options:

        If your shares are held in street name, your bank, broker or other nominee will send you a voting instruction form to use in voting your shares. The availability of internet and telephone voting depends on their voting processes. Please follow the voting instruction form sent to you by your bank, broker or other nominee.

        If you are a participant in The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Retirement Contribution Plan (the "401(k) Plan"), your proxy will incorporate all shares you own through the 401(k) Plan, assuming all your shares are registered in the same name. Your proxy will serve as a voting instruction for the trustee of


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the 401(k) Plan. If you own shares through the 401(k) Plan and you do not vote, the 401(k) Plan trustee will vote your shares in the same proportion as shares for which instructions were received from other shareholders under the 401(k) Plan.

        The NASDAQ Stock Market listing standards provide that if more than 50% of the voting power in a company is held by an individual, group or another company, the company is a "controlled" company. Bon-Ton is a "controlled"controlled company because Tim Grumbacher, Chairman of the Board and Strategic Initiatives Officer of the Company, is the beneficial owner of shares of common stock and Class A common stock entitled to vote more than 50% of the votes entitled to be cast at the meeting. Mr. Grumbacher has indicated that he will vote "for" each of the nominees for director, "for" the approval of the compensation of the Named Executive Officers and "for" ratification of the appointment of KPMG LLP. Consequently, the election of each nominee for director, the approval of the compensation of the Named Executive Officers and the ratification of the appointment of KPMG LLP are assured.


Principal Shareholders

        This table shows owners of 5% or more of the Class A common stock or common stock as of March 14, 2014.13, 2015. Each person listed has sole voting power and sole investment power as to the shares indicated unless otherwise noted.


 Class A Common Stock Common Stock(1)  Class A Common Stock Common Stock(1) 
Name and Address
 Number of
Shares
 Percent of
Class
 Number of
Shares
 Percent of
Class
  Number of Shares Percent
of Class
 Number of Shares Percent
of Class
 

Tim Grumbacher
2801 E. Market Street
York, PA 17402

 2,951,490 100.00% 4,330,266 21.22% 2,951,490 100.00% 4,330,266(2) 21.51%

Gamco Investors, Inc.
Gabelli Funds, LLC
Teton Advisors, Inc.
One Corporate Center
Rye, NY 10580-1435

 
   
2,080,681

(2)
 
11.92

%
 
   
2,675,447

(3)
 
15.57

%

Lombard Odier Asset Management (USA) Corp.
888 7th Avenue
New York, NY 10106

 
   
1,366,194

(2)
 
7.83

%

DW Partners, LP
590 Madison Avenue
New York, NY 10022

 
   
1,686,662

(3)
 
9.82

%

Michael L. Gleim
2801 E. Market Street
York, PA 17402

 
   
994,652

(3)
 
5.70

%
 
   
994,652

(4)
 
5.79

%

Berylson Capital Partners, LLC
Berylson Master Fund, LP
33 Arch Street, Suite 3100
Boston, MA 02110

 
   
887,118

(2)
 
5.08

%

(1)
Each share of Class A common stock is convertible into one share of common stock at the holder's option. Accordingly, the number of shares of common stock for each person includes the number of shares of common stock issuable upon conversion of all shares of Class A common stock beneficially owned by such person. Also, the total number of shares of common stock outstanding for purposes of calculating percentage ownership of a person includes the number of shares of Class A common stock beneficially owned by such person.


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(2)
As of Contents

March 13, 2015, Mr. Grumbacher had pledged 605,103 shares of common stock as security for a loan.

(2)(3)
Based solely on Schedule 13D filed with the SEC by Gamco Investors, Inc. and affiliates on FebruaryJuly 25, 2014, and SchedulesSchedule 13G filed with the SEC by Lombard Odier Asset Management (USA) Corp.DW Partners, LP and affiliates on February 10, 2014 and Berylson Capital Partners, LLC and affiliates on February 20, 2014.17, 2015.


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(3)(4)
Includes (a) 195,523 shares of common stock held by The Grumbacher Family Foundation, a charitable foundation of which Mr. Gleim and Tim Grumbacher are the directors, (b) 668,397 shares of common stock held by trusts for the benefit of Tim Grumbacher's children of which Messrs. Gleim and David R. Glyn are the trustees, and (c) 15,558 shares of common stock held by trusts for the benefit of Mr. Grumbacher's grandchildren of which Beth Elser,Grumbacher, Mr. Glyn and Mr. Gleim are the trustees. Also includes 53,367 shares owned by Cathy Gleim, Mr. Gleim's wife, and 2,300 shares which Mr. Gleim holds as custodian for his grandchildren. Mr. Gleim disclaims beneficial ownership of all shares referred to in this note. Does not include 78,28486,081 Restricted Stock Units ("RSUs") held by Mr. Gleim. RSUs awarded in years prior to 2012 do not confer on Mr. Gleim voting or dispositive control over shares of common stock until one year following termination of his Board service and RSUs awarded in 2012 and thereafter do not confer voting or dispositive control until three months following termination of his Board service, at which time shares of common stock are issued on a one-share for one-unit basis.

        This table shows, as of March 14, 2014,13, 2015, the holdings of our Chief Executive Officer, our Chief Financial Officer, the three other most highly compensated executive officers during 20132014 (collectively, the "Named Executive Officers"), each director, and all directors and executive officers as a group. Each person listed has sole voting power and sole investment power with respect to the shares indicated unless otherwise noted.


 Class A Common Stock Common Stock(1)  Class A Common Stock Common Stock(1) 
Name
 Shares
Beneficially
Owned
 Percent of
Class
 Shares
Beneficially
Owned(2)
 Percent of
Class
  Number of
Shares
 Percent of
Class
 Number of
Shares(2)
 Percent of
Class
 

Tim Grumbacher

 2,951,490 100.00% 4,330,266(3) 21.22% 2,951,490 100.00% 4,330,266(3) 21.51%

Michael L. Gleim

    994,652(4) 5.70%    994,652(4) 5.79%

Brendan L. Hoffman

    809,563 4.64%

Keith E. Plowman

    262,907(5) 1.50%    324,388(5) 1.88%

Kathryn Bufano

    275,000 1.60%

Stephen R. Byers

    221,177 1.26%    250,504 1.45%

Luis Fernandez

    58,660 *     103,660 * 

Lucinda M. Baier

    10,000 *     10,000 * 

Philip M. Browne

    8,600(6) *     8,600(6) * 

Todd C. McCarty

            

Daniel T. Motulsky

      

Jeffrey B. Sherman

            

Steven B. Silverstein

            

All directors and executive officers as a group (11 persons)

 
2,951,490
 
100.00

%
 
6,500,302
 
31.68

%

All directors and executive officers as a group (13 persons)

 2,951,490 100.00% 6,134,549 30.34%

*
less than 1%

(1)
See note (1) to Principal Shareholders table.

(2)
The shares reflected include both options exercisable within 60 days of March 14, 201413, 2015 and Restricted Shares, but exclude RSUs awarded as a component of non-employee director compensation. Restricted Shares confer voting rights on the holder but are subject to forfeiture as provided in the Amended and Restated 2000 Stock Incentive and Performance-Based Award Plan

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Name
 Options Exercisable
Within 60 Days of
March 14, 2014
 Restricted
Shares
 Restricted Stock
Units
  Options
Exercisable
Within 60 Days
of March 13,
2015
 Restricted
Shares
 Restricted
Stock Units
 

Tim Grumbacher

        

Michael L. Gleim

   78,284    86,081 

Brendan L. Hoffman

  700,000  

Keith E. Plowman

 51,019 95,000   40,000 58,000  

Kathryn Bufano

  275,000  

Stephen R. Byers

 61,019 53,500   50,000 88,500  

Luis Fernandez

  52,500    97,500  

Lucinda M. Baier

   63,193    70,016 

Philip M. Browne

   75,930    83,240 

Todd C. McCarty

   63,510    70,820 

Daniel T. Motulsky

   6,314 

Jeffrey B. Sherman

   4,679    11,502 

Steven B. Silverstein

  �� 4,649    11,472 

All directors and executive officers as a group (11 persons)

 112,038 901,000 290,245 

All directors and executive officers as a group (13 persons)

 90,000 552,000 339,445 
(3)
As of March 14, 2014, Mr. Grumbacher had pledged 605,103 shares of common stock as security for a loan.See note (2) to Principal Shareholders table.

(4)
See note (3)(4) to Principal Shareholders Table.table.

(5)
Includes 675 shares held in an Individual Retirement Account by Mr. Plowman's spouse. Mr. Plowman disclaims beneficial ownership of these shares.

(6)
As of March 14, 2014,13, 2015, Mr. Browne had pledged 8,600 shares of common stock as security for a line of credit.

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PROPOSAL ONE

ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

        The Board proposes the following nominees for election as directors to hold office until the 20152016 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and until their respective successors have been elected. Each is currently a director and has agreed to serve if elected. Should a nominee become unable or decline to serve before the meeting, the proxies may vote for a substitute recommended by the Governance and Nominating Committee of the Board, unless the Board reduces the number of directors.


LUCINDA M. BAIER—BAIERDirector since 2007. Age 4950

        Ms. Baier has served as Executive Vice President of Navigant Consulting, Inc., a specialized, global expert services firm, since February 2013, and became Chief Financial Officer in March 2013. She had been Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Administrative Officer of Central Parking System, Inc., a leading firm in parking management and marketing, from August 2011 to October 2012, having previously served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since September 2010. Prior to that, Ms. Baier was Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Movie Gallery, Inc., a home entertainment specialty retailer, from July 2008 to February 2010. In February 2010, Movie Gallery, Inc. filed for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code.

        In determining that Ms. Baier should serve as a director of the Company, the Board considered her significant experience as a chief financial officer of a public company, her expertise and background with regard to accounting and financial matters, as well as her expertise in financial and strategic planning, regulatory compliance and reporting and corporate financing.


PHILIP M. BROWNE—BROWNEDirector since 2002. Age 5455

        Mr. Browne has served as Managing Director, Finance and Administration, of Franklin Square Capital Partners, a sponsor and distributor of investment products, since April 2012. Prior to that, he was Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Advanta Corp., one of the nation's largest credit card issuers in the small business market, from June 1998 to March 2011. In November 2009, Advanta Corp. filed for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code. Prior to that, Mr. Browne was a partner at Arthur Andersen LLP, where he was employed for more than 15 years. Mr. Browne serves on the national board of directors and as the Treasurer of Living Beyond Breast Cancer.

        In determining that Mr. Browne should serve as a director of the Company, the Board considered his significant experience as a chief financial officer of a public company, his expertise and background with regard to accounting and financial matters, as well as his expertise in financial and strategic planning, regulatory compliance and reporting and corporate financing.

KATHRYN BUFANO—Director since August 2014. Age 62

        Ms. Bufano became President and Chief Executive Officer of Bon-Ton in August 2014. Ms. Bufano served as President and Chief Merchandising Officer of Belk Inc. from August 2010 to August 2014 and previously served as its President, Merchandising and Marketing from January 2008 to August 2010. From 2006 to January 2008, Ms. Bufano was the Chief Executive Officer of Vanity Shops, Inc. Ms. Bufano pursued higher education from 2003 to 2006, and from 2002 to 2003 she was Executive Vice President, General Manager Soft-lines for Sears Roebuck & Company. Prior to 2002, Ms. Bufano served as President, Chief Merchandising Officer for Dress Barn, Inc. and in various positions in the Macy's East and Lord & Taylor divisions of Federated Department Stores.


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        In determining that Ms. Bufano should serve as a director of the Company, the Board considered her current role as President and Chief Executive Officer, her numerous years of leadership in the department store industry as well as her expertise in merchandising, marketing and strategic planning.

MICHAEL L. GLEIM—GLEIMDirector since 1991. Age 7172

        Mr. Gleim was elected Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of Bon-Ton in November 2013, having served as the Company's Lead Director of the Board of Directors of Bon-Ton since January 2010. He was Vice Chairman and Chief Operating Officer of Bon-Ton from December 1995 to February 2002. From 1991 to December 1995 he was Senior Executive Vice President of Bon-Ton, and from 1989 to 1991 he was Executive Vice President of Bon-Ton.

        In determining that Mr. Gleim should serve as a director of the Company, the Board considered his numerous years of executive leadership with the Company and management experience in the department store industry as well as his expertise in strategic planning, business expansion, financing and corporate governance.


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TIM GRUMBACHER—GRUMBACHERDirector since 1967. Age 7475

        Mr. Grumbacher is currently Chairman of the Board and Strategic Initiatives Officer. He was named Chairman of the Board of Directors in June 2013. Mr. Grumbacher served as Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors of Bon-Ton from February 2005 to February 2012, when he was named Chairman Emeritus and Strategic Initiatives Officer. He served as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Bon-Ton from August 1991 to February 2005. He was Chief Executive Officer of Bon-Ton from 1985 to 1995 and in positions of senior management since 1977.

        In determining that Mr. Grumbacher should serve as a director of the Company, the Board considered his numerous years of executive leadership with the Company and management experience in the department store industry as well as his expertise in strategic planning, business expansion, financing and corporate governance and his significant ownership interest in the Company.


BRENDAN L. HOFFMAN—Director since February 2012. Age 45

        Mr. Hoffman became President and Chief Executive Officer of Bon-Ton in February 2012. Mr. Hoffman served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Lord & Taylor, a division of Hudson's Bay Trading Company, from October 2008 to January 2012. Prior to that, Mr. Hoffman served for six years as President and Chief Executive Officer of Neiman Marcus Direct, where he oversaw the growth of neimanmarcus.com and the launch and growth of bergdorfgoodman.com. Mr. Hoffman has served as a director of Pier 1 Imports, Inc. since January 2011.

        In determining that Mr. Hoffman should serve as a director of the Company, the Board considered his current role as President and Chief Executive Officer, his numerous years of executive leadership in the retail department store industry as well as his expertise in strategic planning, business expansion, merchandising, marketing, financing and corporate governance.

        Mr. Hoffman has announced that he will not renew his contract upon its expiration in February 2015. The Board will undertake a national search to find a chief executive officer to succeed Mr. Hoffman.


TODD C. MCCARTY—MCCARTYDirector since 2007. Age 4849

        Mr. McCarty has served as Senior Vice President, Global Human Resources of Las Vegas Sands CorporationCorp. since September 2012. He was Senior Vice President, Human Resources of The New York Times Company from December 2009 to September 2012. Prior to that, Mr. McCarty served as Senior Vice President, Global Human Resources of Readers Digest Association, Inc. from March 2008 to December 2009. In August 2009, Readers Digest Association, Inc. filed for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code.

        In determining that Mr. McCarty should serve as a director of the Company, the Board considered his many years of experience as a senior executive in the field of human resources, including specialized knowledge beneficial to the Board of Directors in its formulation of compensation strategies and objectives.

DANIEL T. MOTULSKY—Director since August 2014. Age 52

        Mr. Motulsky was a Managing Director and Global Head of Consumer & Retail at Lazard, a global investment bank providing financial advisory and asset management services, from 2000 to June 2014, having joined the firm in 1998. Prior to his service with Lazard, Mr. Motulsky was a partner at Tanner & Co., Inc., a merchant banking and mergers and acquisition advisory firm, and previously served as an investment banker at Salomon Brothers Inc. Mr. Motulsky serves on the Board of Trustees of The New School University and the Board of Governors of The New School for Social Research in


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New York, New York, and is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations. He formerly served on the Board of Directors of Mega Brands Inc.

        In determining that Mr. Motulsky should serve as a director of the Company, the Board considered his many years of experience in the consumer and retail industries as well as his expertise in strategic and financial matters, capital structure and capital markets.

JEFFREY B. SHERMAN—SHERMANDirector since March 2013. Age 6566

        Mr. Sherman has been President of The Echo Design Group, Inc., a company that designs, manufactures and distributes accessories and home products, since 2010. From 2008 to 2010, he served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Hudson's Bay Trading Company, a retailer with over 600 retail locations in Canada and the United States. Prior to that, Mr. Sherman served as President and Chief Operating Officer of the Polo Retail Group of Ralph Lauren Corporation, as Chief Executive Officer of Limited Stores and in positions of increasing responsibility for over thirty years with Federated Department Stores, including President and Chief Operating Officer of Bloomingdale's.


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Mr. Sherman serves on the board of directors of United Way, New York City and as senior advisor to the board of directors of Bluefly Holdings, Inc.City.

        In determining that Mr. Sherman should serve as a director of the Company, the Board considered his numerous years of executive leadership with companies in the department store and retail industries as well as his expertise in strategic planning, business expansion, merchandising, marketing, distribution, brand development and financing.


STEVEN B. SILVERSTEIN—SILVERSTEINDirector since September 2013. Age 5455

        Mr. Silverstein has been President and Chief Executive Officer of Spencer Spirit Holdings, Inc., a company that operates two retail brands, Spencer Gifts and Spirit Halloween, since 2003. From 1992 to 2003, Mr. Silverstein served in positions of increasing responsibility at Linens 'n Things, Inc., including the position of President. Prior to that, he served as a Divisional Merchandise Manager of Bloomingdale's. Mr. Silverstein serves on the board of Wave Hill Botanic Garden in Bronx, New York.

        In determining that Mr. Silverstein should serve as a director of the Company, the Board considered his numerous years of executive leadership with companies in the retail industry as well as his expertise in strategic planning, business expansion, merchandising, marketing, distribution, brand development and financing.


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CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND BOARD OF DIRECTORS INFORMATION

Governing Documents

        The key documents that constitute our corporate governance framework are our:

        Each of the committee charters and the Code of Ethical Standards and Business Practices is available on our website at www.bonton.com by clicking onselecting "About Bon-Ton," then "Investor Relations," then "Corporate Governance."


Code of Conduct

        The Company maintains a Code of Ethical Standards and Business Practices (the "Code of Conduct") that sets forth the Company's policies and expectations. The Code of Conduct, which applies to every Company director, officer and employee, addresses a number of topics, including conflicts of interest, relationships with others, corporate payments, disclosure policy, compliance with laws, corporate opportunities and the protection and proper use of the Company's assets. The Code of Conduct meets the NASDAQ Stock Market's requirements for a code of conduct as well as the SEC's definition of a code of ethics applicable to the Company's senior officers.


Director Independence

        The Board has determined that each of Messrs. Browne, Gleim, McCarty, Motulsky, Sherman and Silverstein and Ms. Baier is an "independent" director as that term is defined in the listing standards of the NASDAQ Stock Market. In determining independence, the Board carefully reviewed any possible related party transactions between the Company or any of its affiliates and each of the independent directors and determined there were no transactions that would compromise such director's independence. Although the Board consists of a majority of independent directors, the Company is, as discussed on page 3, a "controlled company"controlled company and, as such, the Company may elect under Rule 5615(c) of the listing standards of the NASDAQ Stock Market not to have a majority of the Board consist of independent directors.


Leadership Structure

        The Company has chosen to separate the roles of Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, believing that this structure allows the Chairman of the Board to focus on leadership of the Board and to ensure that the Board fulfills its duties and responsibilities while the Chief Executive Officer focuses on leadership of the Company, including its strategic direction, the quality of its management and continuous operational improvement to enhance shareholder value. To further strengthen the Board's governance structure, the Company's Corporate Governance Policies provide for an independent Vice Chairman of the Board. The role of the Vice Chairman is described on page 12.


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Meetings of the Board of Directors

        During 2013,2014, the Board held six meetings and took action by unanimous consent without a meeting fourthree times. No director attended fewer than 75% of the total number of meetings of the Board and committees on which he or she served while in office. At each meeting of the Board, the independent directors also meet in executive session, at which only the independent directors are present.


Board Committees

        The Board has an Audit Committee, a Human Resources and Compensation Committee, a Governance and Nominating Committee and an Executive Committee. Beginning in May 2008, the Board also established the Ad Hoc Leadership Transition Committee, which convenes as necessary at the behest of the Board. The primary functions of each committee, its members, the number of times the committee met during 2013,2014, and certain other information regarding each committee, are described below. The membership of each committee is as of the date of this proxy statement.

Audit Committee

        The members of the Audit Committee are Philip M. Browne (Chair), Lucinda M. Baier, Daniel T. Motulsky and Todd C. McCarty.Jeffrey B. Sherman. The Board has determined that each of Mr. Browne and Ms. Baier is an "audit committee financial expert" as defined by applicable SEC rules and the listing standards of the NASDAQ Stock Market. The Audit Committee is comprised entirely of "independent" directors as defined by applicable SEC rules and NASDAQ Stock Market listing standards and operates under a charter that was adopted by the Board. This charter is posted in the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at www.bonton.com.

        The Audit Committee appoints and establishes the compensation for the Company's independent registered public accounting firm and approves in advance all engagements with the independent registered public accounting firm to perform audit or non-audit services. The Audit Committee oversees (1) the integrity of the Company's financial statements, (2) the Company's system of internal control over financial reporting and disclosure controls, (3) the Company's compliance with legal and regulatory requirements, (4) the qualification, independence and performance of the Company's independent registered public accounting firm and (5) the performance of the Company's internal audit function. The Audit Committee also oversees the financial reporting processes of the Company and the audits of the Company's financial statements. To assist it in carrying out its responsibilities, the Audit Committee is authorized to retain the services of independent advisors.

        The Audit Committee met six times during 2013.2014.

Human Resources and Compensation Committee

        The members of the Human Resources and Compensation Committee (referred to in this proxy statement as the "HRCC") are Todd C. McCarty (Chair), Jeffrey B. Sherman and Steven B. Silverstein. The HRCC is comprised entirely of "independent" directors, as defined by the listing standards of the NASDAQ Stock Market, and all members are "non-employee directors" as defined by applicable SEC rules and "outside directors" as defined by applicable rules under the Internal Revenue Code. The HRCC operates under a charter that was adopted by the Board. This charter is posted in the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at www.bonton.com.

        The HRCC reviews and evaluates the Company's overall compensation strategy to ensure that it promotes shareholder interests, supports the Company's strategic objectives and provides for appropriate rewards and incentives for the Company's management and employees. The HRCC reviews, evaluates and provides recommendations to the Board regarding the plans, policies and


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programs relating to the compensation of the Company's executive officers, the general compensation


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policies of the Company, succession planning, management development, and termination policies and arrangements. In addition, the HRCC reviews and approves the structure of the Company's bonus plans, administers the Company's stock incentive plans and oversees the Company's retirement, defined benefit and health and welfare plans.

        At the end of each year, the HRCC evaluates the performance of the President and Chief Executive Officer and the other executive officers of the Company with respect to approved goals and objectives, and establishes the compensation levels for the executive officers, including base pay, annual incentive compensation, long-term incentive plan participation, entrance into an agreement regarding employment and any special or supplemental benefits. The HRCC also establishes compensation levels for any newly-hired executive officer. (See "Compensation Discussion and Analysis" on page 21 for additional discussion of the elements of executive officer compensation.) The compensation of the President and Chief Executive Officer is also reviewed by the full Board. The HRCC annually reviews with the President and Chief Executive Officer the performance of the other executive officers (with the exception of Mr. Grumbacher) and approves their compensation for the next year. The HRCC establishes the corporate goals associated with the Company's Cash Bonus Plan, Management Incentive Plan and performance-based restricted stock awards and has the authority to determine whether the requirements for receipt of a cash bonus or vesting of performance-based restricted stock should be waived.

        The HRCC may delegate its authority to a subcommittee comprised solely of its members. To assist it in carrying out its responsibilities, the HRCC is authorized to retain the services of advisors. During 2013,2014, the HRCC engaged Meridian Compensation Partners, LLC ("Meridian") to provide counsel on executive compensation matters. The nature and scope of services rendered by Meridian were:

        The HRCC did not direct Meridian to perform the above services in any particular manner or under any particular method. The HRCC has the final authority to hire and terminate the consultant, and the HRCC evaluates the consultant periodically.

        (See "Compensation Discussion and Analysis" on page 21 for additional discussion of the processes and procedures for the consideration and determination of executive officer compensation.)

        During 2013,2014, the HRCC met sevenfive times and took action by unanimous consent without a meeting once.three times.

Governance and Nominating Committee

        The members of the Governance and Nominating Committee (referred to in this proxy statement as the "Governance Committee") are Michael L. Gleim (Chair) and Tim Grumbacher. Mr. Grumbacher is not an independent director. As discussed on page 3, the Company is a "controlled company"controlled company and, as such, the Company may elect, and has elected, under Rule 5615(c) of the listing standards of the NASDAQ Stock Market, not to have a Governance Committee comprised solely of independent directors.

        The Governance Committee reviews, develops and makes recommendations to the Board regarding the Company's governance processes and procedures. It also recommends candidates for


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election to fill vacancies on the Board, including renominations of members whose terms are due to expire. The Governance Committee is also responsible for making recommendations to the Board regarding the compensation of its non-employee members. The Governance Committee operates under a charter that was adopted by the Board. This charter is posted in the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at www.bonton.com.


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        The Governance Committee met four times during 2013.2014.

Executive Committee

        The members of the Executive Committee are Tim Grumbacher (Chair) and Michael L. Gleim. The Executive Committee has the authority to act in place of the Board on specified matters.

        The Executive Committee has the following responsibilities: to propose the Board meeting schedule for each year and to refine the agenda prior to each Board meeting, to keep the members of the Board informed of pertinent issues that arise between regularly scheduled quarterly Board meetings and to act as a sounding board for the Company's Chief Executive Officer when appropriate. The Executive Committee Charter under which the Executive Committee operates was adopted by the Board and is posted in the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at www.bonton.com.

        During 2013,2014, the Executive Committee met 1211 times.

Ad Hoc Leadership Transition Committee

        The Ad Hoc Leadership Transition Committee, which reviews, develops and makes recommendations to the Board regarding chief executive officer succession, was established by the Board in May 2008 and completed its initial charge in November 2008. The Committee is reconstituted at the behest of the Board when necessary. The members of the Ad Hoc Leadership Transition Committee, reconstituted in March 2014, are Todd C. McCarty (Chair) and Jeffrey B. Sherman. The Ad Hoc Leadership Transition Committee met eight times during 2014 and completed its duties upon the appointment of Kathryn Bufano as the Chief Executive Officer in August 2014.


Role of the Vice Chairman

        In January 2010, the Board elected Michael L. Gleim as Lead Director of the Board, and in November 2013, the Board elected Mr. Gleim as Vice Chairman of the Board. The primary duties of the Vice Chairman which are similar to those of the former position of Lead Director, are, among other things, to:


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Role of the Board in Risk Oversight

        The Board as a whole has responsibility for risk oversight. The oversight responsibility of the Board and the Board committees is facilitated by management reporting processes designed to provide information to the Board concerning the identification, assessment and management of critical risks and management's risk mitigation strategies and practices. These areas of focus include compensation, financial (including accounting, reporting, credit, liquidity and tax), operational, legal, regulatory, environmental, political and strategic risks. The full Board (or the appropriate Board committee), in concert with the appropriate management within the Company, reviews management reports to formulate risk identification, management and mitigation strategies. When a Board committee initially reviews management reports, the Chairman of the relevant Board committee briefs the full Board on the specifics of the matter at the next Board meeting. Additional review or reporting of risks is conducted as needed or as requested by the Board or relevant Board committee. This process enables


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the Board to coordinate the risk oversight role, particularly with respect to risks spanning more than one operational area.


Director Nominations Process and Director Qualifications

        The Governance Committee considers any appropriate recommendations for candidates for the Board. Any candidate recommended for the Board shall, at a minimum, possess a background that includes a solid education, sufficient business, professional or academic experience and the requisite reputation, character, integrity, skills, judgment and temperament and such other relevant characteristics, which, in the Governance Committee's view, have prepared him or her for dealing with the multi-faceted financial, business and other issues that confront a board of directors of a corporation with the size, complexity and reputation of the Company. The Governance Committee does not assign specific weights to particular criteria and no particular criterion is necessarily applicable to all prospective nominees. Candidates for Board membership are reviewed in the context of the current Board composition, the operating requirements of the Company and the long-term interests of the Company's shareholders. The Governance Committee seeks to ensure that backgrounds and qualifications of the Company's directors, as a group, provide significant breadth of experience, knowledge and abilities that will assist the Board in fulfilling its responsibilities to shareholders.

        Although the Governance Committee does not have a formal written policy regarding diversity in composition of the Board, the Governance Committee does consider the contribution of a candidate to the overall diversity of the Board. Diversity is considered broadly and includes variety in personal and professional backgrounds, experience and skills, geographic location, as well as differences in gender, race, ethnicity and age.

        Each candidate for Board membership commits to participate fully in Board activities, including active membership on at least one Board committee and attendance at, and participation in, meetings of the Board and the Board committees of which he or she is a member.

        When considering whether candidates for Board membership have the experience, qualifications, attributes and skills, taken as a whole, to enable the Board to satisfy its oversight responsibilities effectively, the Governance Committee focuses on the information provided in each of the Director's individual work histories set forth on pages 6 through 8.

        The Governance Committee will consider shareholder recommendations for candidates for the Board from any shareholder who has been a continuous record owner of at least 3% of the common stock of the Company for at least one year prior to submission of the recommendation and who provides a written statement that the shareholder intends to continue share ownership through the date of the meeting at which directors are to be elected. Any such shareholder recommendation should be sent to the Governance and Nominating Committee, c/o Office of the Secretary, The Bon-Ton


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Stores, Inc., 2801 East Market Street, Building E, York, Pennsylvania 17402. No shareholder recommendations have been received since the June 18, 201317, 2014 shareholder meeting.

        In addition, the Governance Committee considers potential candidates recommended by current directors, Company officers, employees and others. When appropriate, the Governance Committee may retain executive recruitment firms to assist in identifying suitable candidates. The Governance Committee screens all potential candidates in the same manner regardless of the source of the recommendation.

        In re-nominating incumbent directors to continue for an additional term, the Governance Committee determines whether the incumbent director is willing to stand for re-election. If so, the Governance Committee evaluates his or her performance in office to determine suitability for continued service, taking into consideration the value of continuity and familiarity with the Company's business.


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Director Attendance at Annual Meetings

        The Company has adopted a policy that encourages Board members who reside in the York area to attend the annual meeting of shareholders. Three of the (then) seveneight members of the Board attended the 20132014 Annual Meeting of Shareholders.


Shareholder Communication with the Board of Directors

        Any shareholder who wishes to communicate with the Board of Directors or any individual director may do so by directing correspondence, which prominently displays the fact that it is a shareholder-board communication, to such director or directors, c/o Office of the Secretary, The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc., 2801 East Market Street, Building E, York, Pennsylvania 17402. Until and unless a procedure is adopted by a majority of the independent members of the Board whereby it may be deemed unnecessary or inappropriate to relay certain shareholder communications to the appropriate parties, all shareholder communications will be relayed to the intended director or directors.


Compensation of Directors

        During 2013, Messrs.2014, Mr. Grumbacher and HoffmanMs. Bufano were employees of the Company and were not paid any separate compensation for serving as directors. Messrs.Mr. Grumbacher and HoffmanMs. Bufano are the only current employees who serve as directors.

        Each non-employee director receives both cash compensation and stock compensation comprised of the following:

        The RSUs issued to directors are distributable after the applicable period following termination of Board service. The current grant documents provide for a period of three months following termination of Board service.


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        One of the Company's non-employee directors, currently Lucinda M. Baier, serves as the Board's representative on the committee that oversees the Company's retirement contribution plan.Retirement Contribution Plan. For her service on this committee, Ms. Baier receives $5,000 annually.

        Mr. Gleim serves as Vice Chairman of the Board. For his service as Vice Chairman, Mr. Gleim receives a supplemental fee of $165,000 in cash per year.

        Directors may defer all or any part of their cash compensation into additional RSUs.


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        The following table presents the compensation provided by the Company during 20132014 to each non-employee director:

Name
 Fees earned
or paid in
cash ($)
 Stock
Awards ($)(1)
 Change in
pension value
and nonqualified
deferred
compensation
earnings ($)
 All other
compensation ($)
 Total ($)  Fees Earned or
Paid in Cash
($)
 Stock
Awards
($)(1)
 Change in
Pension Value
and
Nonqualified
Deferred
Compensation
Earnings
($)
 All Other
Compensation
($)
 Total
($)
 

Lucinda M. Baier

 55,000 70,000  5,000(2) 130,000  55,000 70,000  5,000(2) 130,000 

Philip M. Browne

 65,000 75,000   140,000  65,000 75,000   140,000 

Michael L. Gleim

 241,250(3) 80,000 (4)  321,250  260,000(3) 80,000 126,635  466,635 

Todd C. McCarty

 62,500 75,000   137,500  75,000 75,000   150,000 

Daniel T. Motulsky

 26,250 60,172   86,422 

Jeffrey B. Sherman

 55,000 70,000   125,000  57,500 70,000   127,500 

Steven B. Silverstein

 13,750 52,000   65,750  55,000 70,000   125,000 

(1)
The amounts reported in this column reflect the aggregate grant date fair value of RSUs computed in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 718,Compensation—Stock Compensation ("ASC 718") for RSUs granted in 20132014 to each non-employee director. The amounts do not reflect compensation actually received by the non-employee directors. For awards in years prior to 2012, RSUs do not confer on the non-employee director voting or dispositive control over common shares until one year following termination of Board service and, for awards in 2012 and thereafter, RSUs do not confer voting or dispositive control over common shares until three months following termination of Board service. Assumptions used in the calculation of these amounts are included in Note 1615 to our audited financial statements included in our Form 10-K filed with the SEC on April 16, 2014.15, 2015.

The aggregate number of RSUs held by each non-employee director as of February 1, 2014 was:
        63,193January 31, 2015 was 70,016 held by Ms. Baier,
        75,930 83,240 held by Mr. Browne,
        78,284 86,081 held by Mr. Gleim,
        63,510 70,820 held by Mr. McCarty,
        4,679 6,314 held by Mr. Sherman
        4,649Motulsky, 11,502 held by Mr. SilversteinSherman and 11,472 held by Mr. Silverstein.

(2)
Fees received for Ms. Baier's service on the Company's Retirement Contribution Plan Committee.

(3)
Includes fees received for Mr. Gleim's service as Lead Director for three quarters of 2013 and Vice Chairman of the Board for the last quarter of 2013.

(4)
The actuarial valuation of the change in the pension value of Mr. Gleim's benefit in the Bon-Ton SERP was a decrease of $35,149.Board.


Share Ownership Guidelines

        In December 2007, theThe Company adopted guidelines requiring each non-employee director to maintain an equity stake in the Company equal to three times the annual cash retainer paid to the director. This links the directors' interests with those of other shareholders. Shares of common stock actually owned and time-based RSUs count towards the equity ownership requirement. Each director is required to achieve this share ownership level by the later ofwithin five years afterof joining the Board or five years after adoption of the guideline.Board. Ms. Baier and Messrs. Browne, Gleim and McCarty were required to meet, and didcurrently meet this guideline by December 2012.guideline. Messrs. Sherman, Silverstein and SilversteinMotulsky will be required to meet this guideline by March 2018, and September 2018 and August 2019, respectively.


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        Share ownership requirements for 20132014 were measured based on a share price of $11.45, the average price of the Company's common stock during 2010.$11.45. Share ownership requirements and the share price for measure are reviewed annually by the HRCC. The share price for measurement purposes is adjusted by the HRCC from time to time based on changes in the CompanyCompany's stock price.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS VOTING "FOR"
THE ELECTION OF THE NOMINEES LISTED ABOVE


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PROPOSAL TWO


APPROVAL, ON AN ADVISORY BASIS, OF COMPENSATION
OF THE NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

        The Company's shareholders have the opportunity to vote to approve, on an advisory (nonbinding) basis, the compensation of the Company's Named Executive Officers as disclosed in this proxy statement in accordance with the SEC's rules. At the 2011 Annual Meeting, the shareholders voted, on an advisory basis, to approve on an advisory basis the compensation of the Company's Named Executive Officers annually, and the Company determined to present such matter for vote annually. Pursuant to Section 14A of the Securities Exchange Act, the Company is presenting the following "say on pay" proposal, which gives shareholders the opportunity to approve or not approve, on an advisory basis, the Company's compensation program for Named Executive Officers, as disclosed pursuant to Item 402 of Regulation S-K, by voting for or against the resolution set out below. While our Board intends to carefully consider the shareholder vote resulting from this proposal, the final vote will not be binding on the Company and is advisory in nature. The Company submits the following proposal:

        As described in the "Executive Compensation" section, the Company's executive compensation programs are designed to attract, motivate and retain talented executives. In addition, the programs are structured to create an alignment of interests between the Company's executives and shareholders. The Board and the HRCC monitor executive compensation programs and adopt changes to reflect the competitive market in which the Company competes for talent, as well as general economic, regulatory and legislative developments affecting executive compensation. The HRCC will continue to emphasize compensation arrangements that align the financial interests of our executives with the interests of long-term shareholders. Accordingly, we believe that the Company's executive compensation programs are appropriately designed and work to ensure that management's interests are closely aligned with shareholders' interests to create long-term value. Please refer to the section entitled "Executive Compensation" of this proxy statement for a detailed discussion of the Company's executive compensation practices and philosophy.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS VOTING "FOR" APPROVAL,
ON AN ADVISORY BASIS, OF COMPENSATION OF THE
NAMED EXECUTIVE OFFICERS


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PROPOSAL THREE

RATIFICATION OF THE APPOINTMENT
OF THE INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

        The Audit Committee has recommended ratification of its appointment of KPMG LLP ("KPMG"), which has served as our independent registered public accounting firm since 2002, to serve as our independent registered public accounting firm for 2014.2015.

        A representative of KPMG is expected to be present at the meeting, will have the opportunity to make a statement if he or she so desires, and will be available to respond to appropriate questions from shareholders.

THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS RECOMMENDS VOTING "FOR"
RATIFICATION OF THE APPOINTMENT OF THE INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM


FEES PAID TO KPMG

        Set forth below are the fees paid or accrued for the services of KPMG in 20132014 and 2012:2013:

 
 2013 2012 

Audit Fees(1)

 $1,933,781 $1,912,506 

Audit-Related Fees(2)

  57,700  53,100 

Tax Fees(3)

  55,416  55,345 

All Other Fees

     
 
 2014 2013 

Audit fees(1)

 $1,723,243 $1,933,781 

Audit-related fees(2)

  58,300  57,700 

Tax fees(3)

  75,636  55,416 

All other fees

     

(1)
Audit Feesfees include fees associated with audit services, consultation on matters related to the consolidated financial statements, consents, comfort letters, reviews of the Company's quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and reviews of the Company's filings under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

(2)
Audit-Related FeesAudit-related fees reflect fees associated with the audits of the Company's employee benefit plans.

(3)
Tax Feesfees reflect various tax-related services, including consultation, planning and compliance.

        The Audit Committee is responsible for the pre-approval of all audit services and non-audit services performed by the Company's independent registered public accounting firm. All of the fees shown in the chart above were pre-approved by the Audit Committee. The Audit Committee may delegate to one of its members the authority to grant such pre-approvals, and any such approvals are presented to the full Audit Committee at its next scheduled meeting.


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REPORT OF THE AUDIT COMMITTEE

        Information regarding the members of the Audit Committee and the Audit Committee's role and responsibilities is set forth under "Election of Directors" beginning on page 6 and "Board Committees" on page 10.

        The Company's management is responsible for the preparation, presentation and integrity of the Company's consolidated financial statements, for its accounting and financial reporting principles and for the establishment and effectiveness of internal controls and procedures designed to ensure compliance with accounting standards and applicable laws and regulations. KPMG is responsible for performing an independent audit of the consolidated financial statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board ("PCAOB") and expressing an opinion as to the conformity of such consolidated financial statements with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States and an opinion on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting based on criteria established in the Internal Control—Integrated Framework issued in 1992 by the Committee on Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Audit Committee monitors and oversees these processes. The Audit Committee is directly responsible for the appointment, compensation and oversight of the Company's independent registered public accounting firm, KPMG. KPMG has free access to the Audit Committee to discuss any matter it deems appropriate.

        In this context the Audit Committee met and held discussions with management, who represented to the Audit Committee that the Company's audited consolidated financial statements were prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles applied on a consistent basis. The Audit Committee has reviewed and discussed the audited consolidated financial statements, management's assessment of the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting, and KPMG's evaluation of the Company's internal control over financial reporting with management, the Company's internal auditors and KPMG.

        Prior to their issuance, the Audit Committee reviewed and discussed the quarterly and annual earnings press releases with management and the consolidated financial statements with management and KPMG. Disclosures under "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" (including significant accounting policies and judgments) were discussed with management on a quarterly basis and with KPMG at year-end. The Audit Committee discussed with KPMG matters required to be discussed by PCAOB Auditing Standard No. 16, "Communication with Audit Committees." The Audit Committee discussed with KPMG the overall scope and plans for their audit and approved the terms of their engagement letter. The Audit Committee also reviewed the Company's internal audit plan. The Audit Committee met with KPMG and with the Company's internal auditors, in each case, with and without other members of management present, to discuss the results of their respective examinations, the evaluations of the Company's internal controls and overall quality and integrity of the Company's financial reporting. Additionally, the Audit Committee reviewed the performance, responsibilities, budget and staffing of the Company's internal auditors. The Audit Committee also established, and oversaw compliance with, procedures for the Company's receipt, retention and treatment of complaints regarding accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters and its employees' confidential and anonymous submissions of concerns regarding questionable accounting or auditing matters.

        KPMG also provided the Audit Committee with the written disclosures and the letter required by the applicable requirements of the PCAOB regarding KPMG's communications with the Audit Committee concerning independence, and the Audit Committee discussed KPMG's independence with them.


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        Based on the reviews and discussions referred to above, the Audit Committee recommended to the Board that the audited consolidated financial statements be included in the Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 1, 2014.


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        TheSubject to shareholder ratification, the Audit Committee has selected and appointed KPMG as the Company's independent registered public accounting firm for fiscal year 2014.2015. In determining whether to reappoint KPMG as the Company's independent registered public accounting firm, the Audit Committee took into consideration a number of factors, including the length of time the firm has been engaged, the quality of the Audit Committee's ongoing discussions with KPMG and an assessment of the professional qualifications, retail experience and past performance of the lead audit partner and the KPMG team. In accordance with SEC rules and KPMG policies, audit partners are subject to rotation requirements that limit the number of consecutive years to five that an individual partner may provide service to the Company. KPMG's lead audit partner reached this limit upon the completion of the 2013 audit. The process for selection of the Company's new lead audit partner involved a meeting between the Chair of the Audit Committee and the candidate for the role, as well as discussions by the full Audit Committee and by management. In addition, in making its selection of KPMG, the Audit Committee determined the non-audit services provided by KPMG were compatible with maintaining KPMG's independence.

Members of the Audit Committee:

Philip M. Browne, Chairperson
Lucinda M. Baier
Todd C. McCartyDaniel T. Motulsky
Jeffrey B. Sherman


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EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION


Compensation Discussion and Analysis

Executive Summary

        This Compensation Discussion and Analysis ("CD&A") primarily addresses the compensation of the Company's Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Financial Officer and the three other highest paid executive officers in 2013.2014. These executive officers are referred to as the "Named Executive Officers" throughout this proxy statement:

Name
 Title
Brendan L. HoffmanKathryn Bufano President and Chief Executive Officer since August 25, 2014

Brendan L. Hoffman


President and Chief Executive Officer through August 25, 2014

Stephen R. Byers

 

Executive Vice President—Stores, Visual and Loss Prevention

Luis Fernandez

 

Executive Vice President—Chief Omnichannel Officer

Tim Grumbacher

 

Chairman of the Board and Strategic Initiatives Officer

Keith E. Plowman

 

Executive Vice President—Chief Financial Officer

        Ms. Bufano was appointed President and Chief Executive Officer effective August 25, 2014, succeeding Mr. Hoffman, the Company's prior President and Chief Executive Officer. On March 5, 2014, Mr. Hoffman informed the Board that he would not seek renewal of his employment agreement upon its scheduled expiration on February 7, 2015. Mr. Hoffman resigned as President and Chief Executive Officer and as a director of the Company upon the appointment of Ms. Bufano on August 25, 2014. Additionally, on January 16, 2015, Mr. Plowman announced his retirement as Executive Vice President—Chief Financial Officer, effective August 1, 2015. Following his retirement, Mr. Plowman will serve as a consultant to the Company until January 29, 2017.

        The material terms of the employment agreements with Ms. Bufano and Mr. Hoffman and the separation agreement with Mr. Plowman are described under the heading "Summary of Employment Agreements with Named Executive Officers" beginning on page 41.

        The purpose of this CD&A is to provide shareholders with a description of the material elements of the Company's compensation program for its Named Executive Officers. The CD&A should be read in conjunction with the accompanying compensation tables, corresponding footnotes and narrative discussion, as they provide information and context to the compensation disclosures.

        The Company's compensation program is designed to balance near-term results with long-term success in alignment with the interests of our shareholders and the achievement of our business strategy. Bon-Ton has a pay-for-performance philosophy that forms the foundation for decisions regarding compensation made by the Company's management and the HRCC. The Company believes that a meaningful portion of each executive officer's compensation must be at risk in order to invest our executive officerofficers in the long-term success of the Company.

        The framework of our executive compensation program includes the following governance features:


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        The Company's compensation program and related governance features are complemented by several specific elements designed to align the Company's executive compensation with long-term shareholder interests, including:


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        As described on the following pages, we require that the Company achieve a threshold level of performance to pay an annual cash bonus. Also, our long-term incentive program includes restricted stock awards that vest over time and performance shares that vest only if performance targets are met. In 2013, we added a total shareholder return ("TSR") performance goal to certain of the performance-based restricted stock grants awarded to the Named Executive Officers. All equity grants are designed to align executive officer interests with shareholder interests, which we believe is crucial to our long-term success.

        Fiscal 20132014 was a period during which the Company faced numerous challenges, resulting in our financial performance being below our expectations. Performance thresholds for annual cash incentive compensation and long-term incentive compensation were not met, resulting in no annual bonus payout or vesting of performance-based restricted stock with respect to 20132014 results.

        In accordance with new SEC proxy rules, at our 20132014 Annual Meeting, an advisory "say-on-pay" vote was held regarding the approval of the compensation of our Named Executive Officers set forth in the summary compensation table and accompanying narrative disclosure contained in our 20132014 proxy statement. ExecutiveOur executive compensation was approved by our shareholders by an overwhelminga wide margin, with 97%93% of the votes for approval of Named Executive Officer compensation.approving.

        In addition, at our 2011 Annual Meeting, the Company provided to its shareholders the opportunity to vote on an advisory basis on the frequency of this "say-on-pay" vote. The Board of Directors had recommended that such vote be held on an annual basis, and the shareholders overwhelmingly approved such frequency. Following that vote, the Board of Directors determined that it will include an advisory shareholder vote on compensation of Named Executive Officers in its proxy statement annually until the next required vote on the frequency of shareholder voting on executive compensation.

        We encourage you to read this CD&A for a detailed analysis of our executive compensation program, including information about the 20132014 compensation of the Named Executive Officers described in the tables that follow.


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Our Compensation Philosophy and Objectives

        The Company's philosophy is to directly link an increasing portion of an executive officer's compensation with corporate performance and in alignment with shareholder value. At the same time, an executive officer's base salary as a percentage of his or her total compensation decreases as his or her scope of responsibility increases. The following are the objectives that guide the HRCC's decisions regarding compensation:


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        Based on the foregoing objectives, the HRCC has structured annual and long-term executive compensation to provide incentives to executive officers to achieve the business goals set by the Company and reward them for achieving such goals. In addition, in structuring compensation, especially performance-based compensation, the HRCC reviews a risk assessment conducted by the Company to ensure that the Company's compensation program does not encourage unreasonable risk.


Share Ownership Guidelines

        In December 2007, theThe Company adopted share ownership guidelines for our executive officers. The guidelinesofficers which help ensure that our executive officers maintain an equity stake in the Company, and by doing so, appropriately link their interests with those of other shareholders. Shares beneficially owned and time-based restricted stock count towards the equity ownership requirement. Performance-based restricted stock does not count towards the requirement. Executive officers are required to achieve these share ownership levels within five years of becoming an executive officer, or by December 2012 for those who were executive officers at the time we adopted the guidelines.officer. The guidelines are:

Position
 Ownership Guideline

Chief Executive Officer

 3x base salary

Executive Vice President

 1x base salary

        Share ownership requirements for 20132014 were measured based on a share price of $11.45, the average price of the Company's common stock during 2010.$11.45. Share ownership requirements are reviewed annually by the HRCC.

        Each of the Named Executive Officers, with the exception of Ms. Bufano, who was hired in August of 2014, currently owns shares sufficientmeets the requirement. Ms. Bufano will be required to meet the requirement.this guideline by August 2019.


Role of the HRCC in Compensation Decisions

        The HRCC's responsibilities include the following:


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    Approve the performance goals and metrics with respect to annual performance-based cash bonuses and equity awards to executive officers.

    Monitor total compensation paid toof the executive officers and consider whether such compensation is fair, reasonable and competitive in consideration of each executive's capacity to influence shareholder value and promote the long-term growth of the Company.

    Prepare an annual review and evaluation of the Chief Executive Officer's performance for the year compared to pre-determined, HRCC-approved performance metrics.

    Prepare an annual review and evaluation of the Strategic Initiatives Officer's performance for the year compared to pre-determined, HRCC-approved performance metrics.


Role of Management in Compensation Decisions

        The Chief Executive Officer annually prepares a review of hisher direct reports, including the Named Executive Officers (with the exception of Mr. Grumbacher) and other executive officers, compared to pre-determined, HRCC-approved performance metrics. The total compensation for the respective


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executives, the performance appraisals and the recommendations made by the Chief Executive Officer are presented for HRCC approval.

        Other members of management also support the HRCC in its work. Management assists the Chair of the HRCC in establishing the agendas for HRCC meetings and preparing materials for the review of HRCC members in advance of each meeting. With respect to most compensation and benefit matters, including compensation of the Named Executive Officers excluding the Chief Executive Officer, management provides recommendations to the HRCC. The HRCC relies on management and, as appropriate, the advice of outside experts to evaluate executive performance and to make recommendations for salary and cash bonus levels as well as for grants of stock options or awards of restricted stock. Management also works with the HRCC to establish performance goals under the Company's performance-based annual cash incentive compensation program. Members of management who provide this support include Brendan L. Hoffman;Kathryn Bufano; Paul A. Cortese, Senior Vice President—Compensation, Benefits and HRIS; Denise M. Domian, Senior Vice President—Human Resources; and J. Gregory Yawman, Vice President—General Counsel and Secretary, each of whom generally attends meetings of the HRCC. Each of them is excused from a meeting during deliberation and approval of matters regarding his or her compensation and from regularly scheduled HRCC executive sessions.


Benchmarking

        The Company competes against a wide range of companies in retaining and attracting executive personnel. Each year, the Company compares salary, annual incentive compensation and long-term equity incentive values for its executive officers against various retail companies.

        For its comparative analysis, the Company utilized compensation data from the Hay Associates 20132014 Retail Executive and Management Total Remuneration Report.Report (the "Hay Survey"). From this data,the survey participants, the Company identified a subgroup of 3240 retail companies with median sales of $2.9$2.6 billion (the "Hay Subgroup"). This group was selected due to its similarity in size and scope to the Company and was considered representative of the market from which the Company would recruit


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executive talent. The composition of this group changes slightly each year based on participation in the Hay Survey. The companies in the 2014 Hay Subgroup are:

Abercrombie & Fitch Co.

 

J. Crew Group,Limited Brands, Inc.—Victoria's Secrets

Aéropostale, Inc.

Limited Stores

American Eagle Outfitters, Inc.

 

Limited Brands,L.L Bean, Inc.—Bath and Body

Ann Inc.

Limited Brands, Inc.—Victoria's Secrets

Ascena Retail Group—Charming ShoppesANN INC.

 

Macy's Inc.—Bloomingdale's

Belk, Inc.Ascena Retail Group

 

Michaels Stores, Inc.

Cabela's,Belk, Inc.

 

Neiman Marcus, Inc.

Big Lots, Inc.

Payless Holdings

Brown Shoe Company

Petco Animal Supplies, Inc.

Carter's, Inc.

Pier 1 Imports, Inc.

Chico's FAS, Inc.

 

Payless HoldingsRalph Lauren—Polo

The Children's Place Retail Stores, Inc.

 

Petco Animal Supplies, Inc.Shopko Stores Operating Co., LLC

Coach, Inc.

 

Pier 1 Imports,The Sports Authority, Inc.

DICK'S Sporting Goods, Inc.

Stage Stores, Inc.

DSW, Inc.

 

Ralph Lauren—PoloTalbots, Inc.

Express, Inc.

 

Saks, Inc.Tiffany & Co.

The Finish Line, Inc.

 

Stage Stores, Inc.The TJX Companies—Home Goods

Fossil, Inc.

Tiffany & Co.

hhgregg, Inc.

 

Ulta Salon Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc.

Hudson's Bay Company—Lord & TaylorIKEA Services AB

Urban Outfitters

J. Crew Group, Inc.

 

Williams-Sonoma, Inc.

IKEA Systems, B.V.Limited Brands, Inc.—Bath and Body

 

Zale Corporation (Signet Jewelers Limited)


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        During 2013,2014, the HRCC strove to delivertargeted total compensation at approximately the 50th percentile of the Hay Subgroup for each element of compensation.Subgroup. However, as the Company competes with many larger companies for the best executive-level talent, the HRCC may decide it is in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders to provide compensation for selected positions that exceeds theor falls below targeted compensation levels depending on the circumstances, including the Company's needs, market factors, the executive's experience, the contribution of the executive to the Company, and in the HRCC's view, the positive impact the executive may have on the Company as a whole.


Components of Named Executive Officer Compensation

        The principal components of compensation for the Named Executive Officers are base salary, performance-based annual cash incentive compensation, long-term equity incentive compensation, perquisites, and retirement and other benefits. The HRCC has transitioned the Company's compensation program from its historical short-term orientation, which focused on base salary and annual cash incentive compensation, to a programfor the Named Executive Officers is structured with an increasing emphasis on long-term equity incentive compensation to better align the interests of the Named Executive Officerskey executives with the interests of shareholders in long-term growth. The HRCC does not have a pre-established policy for allocation between cash and non-cash or short-term and long-term incentive compensation. Rather, it evaluates the actual mix against market data and attempts to provide each Named Executive Officer with a balanced compensation package that addresses retention and competitive requirements.


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        The following table shows the components of Named Executive Officer compensation:

Component
 Purpose Characteristics

Base Salary

 Compensate Named Executive Officers for performing their roles and assuming their levels of executive responsibility. Intended to provide a competitive level of compensation, it is a necessary component in recruiting and retaining executives. Fixed component. Annually reviewed by the HRCC and adjusted as appropriate.

Performance-based Annual Cash Incentive Compensation

 

Promote improvement of the Company's financial results and performance. Intended to drive performance in a particular year without being a deterrent to long-term Company goals and initiatives or encouraging unreasonable risk.

 

Cash bonus opportunity based on the achievement of certain goals, which may be individual performance goals, Company performance goals or a combination of the two. Where applicable, goals are typically established annually and bonus amounts awarded will vary based on performance.

Long-Term Equity Incentive Compensation

 

Promote the achievement of the Company's long-term financial goals and stock price performance. Align Named Executive Officers and shareholder interests, promote Named Executive Officers' retention and reward Named Executive Officers for superior Company performance over time.

 

Reviewed annually and granted, if appropriate, by the HRCC in the form of both performance-based and time-based restricted stock awards. Amounts actually earned by each Named Executive Officer will vary and will depend on stock price. Restricted stock awards may vest over time or based on Company performance.

Perquisites and Other Benefits

 

Provide health and welfare benefits as available to all employees. Additional perquisites and benefits are designed to attract, retain and reward Named Executive Officers by providing an overall benefit package similar to those provided by comparable companies.

 

Health and welfare benefits are a fixed component that may vary based on employee elections. Perquisites and other benefits may vary from year to year.

Retirement Benefits

 

Provide basic retirement benefits as available to all Company associates and supplemental coverage necessary to retain key executives.associates.

 

Named Executive Officers receive employer matching and retirement contributions in years in which discretionary contributions are allocated to all participating associates' retirement plan accounts.


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        The HRCC has reviewed a summary, or "tally sheet," with all components of compensation of the Named Executive Officers, including base salary, performance-based cash and equity incentive compensation, long-termtime-based equity incentive compensation, accumulated realized and unrealized equity values, and the dollar value to the executive and cost to the Company of all perquisites and other benefits and obligations under the Company's retirement plans. The HRCC did not use the tally sheet in making individual pay decisions, but rather reviewed it to ensure the total package met the needs of both the Company and the executives. The HRCC believes the level of compensation of the Company's Named Executive Officers reflects the Company's performance and total compensation to each of the Named Executive Officers is appropriate.

Base Salary

        The base salaries of the Company's Named Executive Officers are determined by evaluating their roles and responsibilities and compensation data compared with the Hay Subgroup. The base salary of each Named Executive Officer is reviewed annually. If appropriate, the Chief Executive Officer recommends salary increases for each of the Named Executive Officers other than himself.herself. The HRCC's decision to increase base salary for any Named Executive Officer is based on the Company's compensation philosophy and takes into specific account the level of responsibility of the Named Executive Officer, the Company's performance, the Named Executive Officer's individual performance and the Named Executive Officer's compensation compared to similarly situated executives in the Hay Subgroup.

        Minimum base salaries for Kathryn Bufano, Brendan L. Hoffman Stephen R. Byers and Luis Fernandez were established in employment agreements approved by the HRCC and, with respect to Ms. Bufano's and Mr. Hoffman's employment agreement,agreements, the Board at the recommendation of the HRCC. These minimum base salaries were based on a variety of factors, including market data from the Hay Subgroup and an evaluation of each person's capacity to positively affect the Company's performance. In its 2013 review of base salaries, the HRCC determined that increases for the Named Executive Officers, with the exception of Messrs. Hoffman and Grumbacher, were necessary to remain properly aligned with salaries of competitors.

Performance-Based Annual Cash Incentive Compensation

        The Company has an annual incentive cash bonus plan (the "Cash Bonus Plan") in which the Named Executive Officers, with the exception of Mr. Grumbacher, participate. The payout of any cash bonus under the plan is dependent upon the achievement ofon achieving pre-determined Company performance goals which are pre-approved by the HRCC.

        Pursuant toUnder the 20132014 Cash Bonus Plan, the HRCC selectedset the following levels of Adjustedadjusted EBITDA and Net Salesnet sales as financial goals in determining the annual bonus opportunity for the Named Executive Officers (with 75%70% weighting on Adjustedadjusted EBITDA and 25%30% weighting on Net Sales)net sales):

Goal
 Threshold Target Maximum

Adjusted EBITDA(1)

 $173.5170.0 million $187.1175.0 million $230.0214.8 million

Net Salessales

 $2.9312.829 billion $2.9862.847 billion $3.0982.949 billion

(1)
Adjusted EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization, including amortization of lease-related interests, non-cash impairment charges and the loss on exchange/extinguishment of debt.

        The Cash Bonus Plan financial metrics were selected for their focus on maximizing growth and operating income. The Adjustedadjusted EBITDA metric is an effective measurement of how well the Company's business objectives and strategies are being executed in its goal to maximize operating income. Net Salessales is a measure of growth, achievement of which provides opportunities for the realization of various other financial measures, including Adjustedadjusted EBITDA. The heavier weighingweighting for


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the Adjustedadjusted EBITDA objective reflects the Company's focus on profitable growth. These performance levels are designed to be challenging yet achievable.


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        As noted above, a threshold level of performance is set for each measure. Performance must be at or above the threshold to receive any payment for that measure. In addition, payment of any portion of a bonus under the Cash Bonus Plan at or above the level of two times the threshold percentage is dependent upon the Company's achievement of at least the thresholda specified level of net income (for 2013, $4.32014, $9.7 million). If the thresholdthis level of net income is not achieved, there is noparticipants would not be eligible for a bonus payout under any ofat or above two times the goals for that year.threshold percentage.

        The HRCC reviewed and established competitive "threshold," "target" and "maximum" payout potentials under the Cash Bonus Plan for each Named Executive Officer, as shown below for 20132014 (as a percentage of base salary):

Name
 Payout at
Threshold
 Payout at
Target
 Payout at
Maximum
  Payout at
Threshold
 Payout at
Net Income
Threshold
 Payout at
Target
 Payout at
Maximum
 

Kathryn Bufano

 25% 50% 100% 200%

Brendan L. Hoffman

 50% 100% 200% 25% 50% 100% 200%

Stephen R. Byers

 25% 50% 100% 12.5% 25% 50% 100%

Luis Fernandez

 25% 50% 100% 12.5% 25% 50% 100%

Keith E. Plowman

 37.5% 75% 150% 18.75% 37.5% 75% 150%

        The adjusted EBITDA and net income threshold wassales thresholds were not achieved in 20132014 and consequently no bonus compensation was paid to the Named Executive Officers.

        In addition to bonuses that may be awarded under the Cash Bonus Plan, a cash bonus may be awarded at the discretion of the HRCC for extraordinary individual achievement or for other reasons, such as a signing bonus upon joining the Company or an executive extending the term of his or her employment agreement.Company. In 2013, Mr. Hoffman2014, Ms. Bufano received a signing cash bonus of $1,000,000, which was required$350,000, as specified under the terms of hisher employment agreement. No extraordinaryother bonuses were awarded to any of the other Named Executive Officers in 2013.2014.

Long-Term Equity Incentive Compensation

        Another component of Named Executive Officer compensation is long-term incentive compensation in the form of time-based and performance-based restricted stock. Equity awards are made at the discretion of the HRCC but generally are made within the first quarter of each fiscal year. Grants and awards (other than to the Chief Executive Officer) are made on the recommendation of the Chief Executive Officer, primarily to reward significant individual achievement and to motivate and retain key talent. The proportion of long-term equity incentive compensation in relation to base salary is a function of the Named Executive Officer's level of responsibility and capacity to enhance shareholder value.

        The HRCC has decided that grants made to the Chief Executive Officer should be directly aligned towith the short- and long-term performance of the Company. In addition, the Chief Executive Officer and the other Named Executive Officers are awarded restricted stock as a retention tool. In light of his significant stock ownership, stock awards are not made to Mr. Grumbacher.

        No stock options were granted to the Named Executive Officers in 2013.2014. However, if the HRCC were to grant options in the future, the exercise price of such options would usually be set at the closing price of the Company's common stock on the NASDAQ Stock Market on the date of the HRCC meeting at which the grant is approved. In certain instances, the HRCC has set the exercise price at the closing price on a grant date in the future to allow time to notify the grantee of the option grant or to set the grant date and exercise price on the same date as the starting date of a new executive. If the HRCC sets a grant date and option exercise price based on the closing price on the


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NASDAQ Stock Market on a date in the future, the HRCC confirms that management does not anticipate any material announcements during the period from the HRCC meeting until such future date.


Table        Pursuant to an employment agreement with Ms. Bufano effective as of ContentsAugust 25, 2014, the HRCC granted Ms. Bufano 175,000 time-based restricted shares of the Company's common stock, 87,500 of which vest on August 25, 2016 and 87,500 of which vest on August 25, 2017. In addition, Ms. Bufano received a grant of 175,000 performance-based restricted shares, 75,000 of which were subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals for 2014, and 50,000 of which are subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals for each of 2015 and 2016. As the performance goals for 2014 were not attained, the restricted stock awards relating to 2014 performance goals were forfeited.

        On April 15, 2015, Ms. Bufano was awarded a grant of 175,000 time-based restricted shares, all of which vest on April 15, 2018. In addition, Ms. Bufano received a target grant of 225,000 performance-based restricted shares which are subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals for the cumulative three-year period of 2015, 2016 and 2017. To receive restricted shares above target for the cumulative three-year grant, the TSR for the three-year period must be positive.

        Pursuant to an employment agreement with Mr. Hoffman effective as of February 7, 2012 and amended July 16, 2014 (the "Amendment"), the HRCC granted Mr. Hoffman 300,000 time-based restricted shares of the Company's common stock, 100,000 of which vested on each of February 7, 2013 and February 7, 2014, and 100,000 of which vestvested on February 7, 2015.an accelerated basis on September 9, 2014 pursuant to the aforementioned Amendment to Mr. Hoffman's employment agreement. In addition, Mr. Hoffman received a grant of 300,000 performance-based restricted shares, 50,000, 125,000 and 125,000 of which were subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals for 2012, 2013 and 2013, respectively, and 125,000 of which are subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals for 2014.2014, respectively. As the performance goals for 2012, 2013 and 20132014 were not attained, the restricted stock awards relating to 2012, 2013 and 20132014 performance goals were forfeited.

        On April 17, 2013, Mr. Hoffman was awarded a grant of 100,000 time-based restricted shares, all of which were scheduled to vest on April 17, 2016. In addition, Mr. Hoffman received a target grant of 200,000 performance-based restricted shares and a grant of up to 100,000 performance-based restricted shares contingent upon the realization of a positive TSR, the vesting of which iswere based on achievement of Company performance goals for the cumulative three-year period of 2013, 2014 and 2015. To receive restricted shares above target for this cumulative three-year grant,Pursuant to the TSR forJuly 16, 2014 Amendment to Mr. Hoffman's employment agreement, the three-year period must be positive.aforementioned grants were forfeited on September 9, 2014 upon Mr. Hoffman's termination from the Company.

        On May 6, 2013, Mr. Hoffman received a target grant of 50,000 performance-based restricted shares which iswas based on achievement of Company performance goals for the cumulative two-year period of 2013 and 2014. To receive restricted shares above target for this cumulative two-year grant, the TSR for the two-year period mustwas required to be positive.

        On April 18, 2011, Mr. Byers was awarded a grant of 10,000 time-based restricted shares, all of which vested on April 18, 2014. In addition, Mr. Byers received a grant of 12,000 performance-based restricted shares which were subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals for 2011. As the performance goals for 2011the cumulative two-year period of 2013 and 2014 were not attained, the restricted stock awardawards relating to 2011 performance goals wasthe cumulative two-year period of 2013 and 2014 were forfeited.

        On April 17, 2012, Mr. Byers was awarded a grant of 6,000 time-based restricted shares, all of which vestvested on April 17, 2015. In addition, Mr. Byers received a grant of 10,000 performance-based restricted shares which were subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals for 2012. As the performance goals for 2012 were not attained, the restricted stock award relating to 2012 performance goals was forfeited.

        On April 17, 2013, Mr. Byers was awarded a grant of 15,000 time-based restricted shares, all of which vest on April 17, 2016. In addition, Mr. Byers received a grant of 10,000 performance-based restricted shares which were subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals


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for 2013 and a target grant of 15,000 performance-based restricted shares which is based on achievement of Company performance goals for the cumulative three-year period of 2013, 2014 and 2015. To receive restricted shares above target for the cumulative three-year grant, the TSR for the three-year period must be positive. As the performance goals for 2013 were not attained, the restricted stock award relating solely to 2013 performance goals was forfeited.

        On April 15, 2014, Mr. Byers was awarded a grant of 22,500 time-based restricted shares, all of which vest on April 15, 2017. In addition, Mr. Byers received a grant of 7,500 performance-based restricted shares which arewere subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals for 2014 and a target grant of 15,000 performance-based restricted shares which is based on achievement of Company performance goals for the cumulative three-year period of 2014, 2015 and 2016. To receive restricted shares above target for the cumulative three-year grant, the TSR for the three-year period must be positive.

        Pursuant to an employment agreement effective as of May 7, 2012, the HRCC granted Mr. Fernandez 10,000 shares of the Company's common stock and 10,000 shares of performance-based restricted shares of the Company's common stock, all of which were subject to vesting based on


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achievement of Company performance goals for 2012. As the performance goals for 20122014 were not attained, the restricted stock award relating solely to 20122014 performance goals was forfeited.

        On April 15, 2015, Mr. Byers was awarded a grant of 22,500 time-based restricted shares, all of which vest on April 15, 2018. In addition, Mr. Byers received a target grant of 22,500 performance-based restricted shares which are subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals for the cumulative three-year period of 2015, 2016 and 2017. To receive restricted shares above target for the cumulative three-year grant, the TSR for the three-year period must be positive.

        On April 17, 2013, Mr. Fernandez was awarded a grant of 30,000 time-based restricted shares, all of which vest on April 17, 2016. In addition, Mr. Fernandez received a grant of 10,000 performance-based restricted shares which were subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals for 2013 and a target grant of 15,000 performance-based restricted shares which is based on achievement of Company performance goals for the cumulative three-year period of 2013, 2014 and 2015. To receive restricted shares above target for the cumulative three-year grant, the TSR for the three-year period must be positive. As the performance goals for 2013 were not attained, the restricted stock award relating solely to 2013 performance goals was forfeited.

        On April 15, 2014, Mr. Fernandez was awarded a grant of 22,500 time-based restricted shares, all of which vest on April 15, 2017. In addition, Mr. Fernandez received a grant of 7,500 performance-based restricted shares which arewere subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals for 2014 and a target grant of 15,000 performance-based restricted shares which is based on achievement of Company performance goals for the cumulative three-year period of 2014, 2015 and 2016. To receive restricted shares above target for the cumulative three-year grant, the TSR for the three-year period must be positive. As the performance goals for 2014 were not attained, the restricted stock award relating solely to 2014 performance goals was forfeited.

        On April 18, 2011,15, 2015, Mr. PlowmanFernandez was awarded a grant of 12,00022,500 time-based restricted shares, all of which vestedvest on April 18, 2014.15, 2018. In addition, Mr. PlowmanFernandez received a target grant of 50,00022,500 performance-based restricted shares which wereare subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals for 2011. As the performance goalscumulative three-year period of 2015, 2016 and 2017. To receive restricted shares above target for 2011 were not attained, the restricted stock award relating to 2011 performance goals was forfeited.cumulative three-year grant, the TSR for the three-year period must be positive.

        On April 17, 2012, Mr. Plowman was awarded a grant of 8,000 time-based restricted shares which vestvested on April 17, 2015. In addition, Mr. Plowman received a grant of 50,000 performance-based restricted shares which were subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals for 2012. As the performance goals for 2012 were not attained, the restricted stock award relating to 2012 performance goals was forfeited.

        On April 17, 2013, Mr. Plowman was awarded a grant of 15,000 time-based restricted shares, all of which vest on April 17, 2016. In addition, Mr. Plowman received a grant of 20,000 performance-based


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restricted shares which were subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals for 2013. As the performance goals for 2013 andwere not attained, the restricted stock award relating to 2013 performance goals was forfeited. Mr. Plowman was also awarded a target grant of 40,000 performance-based restricted shares which is based on achievement of Company performance goals for the cumulative three-year period of 2013, 2014 and 2015. To receive restricted shares above target for the cumulative three-year grant, the TSR for the three-year period must be positive. As the performance goals for 2013 were not attained, the restricted stock award relating solely to 2013 performance goals was forfeited.

        On April 15, 2014, Mr. Plowman was awarded a grant of 35,000 time-based restricted shares, all of which vest on April 15, 2017.an accelerated basis on January 29, 2017 pursuant to the January 16, 2015 Separation Agreement and General Release (the "Separation Agreement") between Mr. Plowman and the Company. In addition, Mr. Plowman received a grant of 10,000 performance-based restricted shares which arewere subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals for 2014. As the performance goals for 2014 andwere not attained, the restricted stock award relating to 2014 performance goals was forfeited. Mr. Plowman was also awarded a target grant of 25,000 performance-based restricted shares which is based on achievement of Company performance goals for the cumulative three-year period of 2014, 2015 and 2016. To receive restricted shares above target for the cumulative three-year grant, the TSR for the three-year period must be positive.

        Awards of performance-based restricted stock reflect the HRCC's objectives to link an increasing portion of compensation to Company performance and to align the interests of key executives with those of shareholders.

        The aforementioned awards are reflected in the "Grants of Plan-Based Awards" table on page 37.


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Perquisites and Other Benefits

        The Company provides the Named Executive Officers with perquisites and other benefits that the Company and the HRCC believe are reasonable and consistent with the Company's objective to motivate and retain superior executives for key positions. The HRCC periodically reviews the levels of perquisites and other benefits provided to Named Executive Officers. Perquisites primarily consist of supplemental medical benefits, automobile allowances, relocation benefits and reimbursement of legal fees incurred in connection with the negotiation of employment agreements. Perquisites traditionally have not constituted significant portions of an executive's compensation.

        The Named Executive Officers also participate in benefit programs available to employees generally, such as health and dental insurance, life insurance and long-term disability insurance.

Retirement Benefits

        The Named Executive Officers participate in The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Retirement Contribution Plan, a tax-qualified defined-contribution plan. Under this plan, employees are able to contribute a portion of their annual salaries on a pre-tax basis and the Company may make discretionary retirement contributions to each eligible employee's account. Company matching contributions may consist of two parts: a match based on an employee's years of service and a profit sharing match. Company retirement contribution amounts are included in the Summary Compensation Table on page 35.36.

Employment Agreements and Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control

        As discussed more fully below, the Company has entered into employment agreements with Kathryn Bufano, Brendan L. Hoffman Stephen R. Byers and Luis Fernandez. The decisions to enter into employment agreements and the terms of those agreements were based on the Company's need to motivate and retain talent for the long-term growth of the Company. Beginning in 2013, the Company determined that, except with respect to the chief executive officer, it no longer intends to no longer enter into employment agreements with executives but would establish an Executive Severance Pay Plan (the "Severance


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Plan") that provides prescribed benefits to participating executives of the Company upon termination of employment without cause or resignation for good reason. It is intended that when existing employment agreements with current executives expire, the Company will cover these executives under the Severance Plan. In order to participate in the Severance Plan, an executive must execute and deliver to the Company a confidentiality, non-competition and non-solicitation agreement. Mr. Byers is the first Named Executive Officer to be enrolleda participant in the Severance Plan.

        Effective February 7, 2012,August 25, 2014, the Company elected Mr. HoffmanMs. Bufano as its President and Chief Executive Officer, and the Company determined that it would be in its interest to enter into an employment agreement to provide for an initial term of employment of three years in order to retain Ms. Bufano as its President and Chief Executive Officer.

        Effective February 7, 2012, the Company elected Mr. Hoffman as its President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Hoffman was selected as PresidentOfficer, and Chief Executive Officer dueentered into an employment agreement to his yearsprovide for an initial term of executive experience in the retail department store industry and for the long-term growthemployment of the Company.three years. As previously mentioned, on March 5, 2014, Mr. Hoffman has announced that he willwould not renew his contract upon its expiration in February 2015.

        With respect to Mr. Byers,Hoffman resigned from his position upon the HRCC and Company management determined it would be in the best interestssubsequent appointment of the Company to enter into an employment agreement to retain Mr. Byers due to his significant level of experience in retail and for the long-term growth of the Company. The Company and Mr. Byers entered into a new employment agreement dated May 1, 2011 that revised his duties and provided that the term shall be for one year and shall renew for successive one-year terms beginning May 1st of each year unless either party elects not to renew the agreement. As previously discussed, after the expiration of the term of his employment agreementMs. Bufano on April 30, 2014, Mr. Byers became a participant in the Severance Plan.


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        With respect to Mr. Fernandez, Company management determined it would be in the best interests of the Company to enterentered into an employment agreement for an initial term of employment of three years effective May 7, 2012.

        On January 16, 2015, Mr. Plowman announced his retirement as Executive Vice President—Chief Financial Officer of the Company, effective August 1, 2015. Following his retirement, Mr. Plowman will serve as a consultant to attractthe Company through January 29, 2017.

        In connection with his retirement, Mr. Plowman entered into a Separation Agreement with the Company under which he will receive the following in connection with consulting services that he will provide to the Company beginning on August 2, 2015: (1) an annual consulting fee equal to his annual base salary in effect on January 15, 2015, (2) an amount equal to the monthly premiums for insurance coverage for group medical and dental plans, (3) a bonus, if earned, for the 2015 plan year, pro-rated for the period of time prior to Mr. Plowman's retirement date, and (4) with respect to restricted stock currently held by Mr. Plowman, 15,000 shares of restricted stock granted on April 17, 2013 shall vest and all restrictions shall lapse on April 17, 2016 and 35,000 shares of restricted stock granted on April 15, 2014 shall vest and all restrictions shall lapse on January 29, 2017. The Separation Agreement provides that the above payments and vesting of restricted stock will be accelerated in the event of a change in control of the Company. The Company entered into the Separation Agreement and provided these benefits to Mr. Plowman in order to retain Mr. Fernandez duePlowman's full-time services to his significant levelthe Company through August 1, 2015 and thereafter as a consultant during a transition period. The Separation Agreement also provides that during the remainder of experience in retail marketingMr. Plowman's employment and ecommerce. The Company andfor a period of 18 months following Mr. Fernandez entered into an employment agreement on May 7, 2012.Plowman's retirement date, Mr. Plowman will not be employed by or have a consulting relationship with six specified competitors of the Company.

        The material terms of the employment agreements with the Named Executive Officers are described under the heading "Summary of Employment Agreements with Named Executive Officers" beginning on page 40.41.

        Under the employment agreements, and the Severance Plan and the Separation Agreement between Mr. Plowman and the Company, the Company has agreed to provide severance compensation in the event of a termination, change in control or other triggering events. In addition, Keith E. Plowman, with whom the Company does not have an employment agreement, is covered by the Company's policy on severance. These arrangements are designed to promote stability and continuity of senior management through a change in control of the Company. Stock options and restricted stock will generally vest upon a change in control. The Company provides for vesting of equity awards to retain, focus and motivate executives during change in control discussions. However, any cash severance benefits require a "double trigger" (including the executive's separation from the Company under specified circumstances) for payment.


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        Information on these arrangements for the Named Executive Officers is provided under the heading "Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control" on page 44.47.


Recoupment of Incentive-Based Compensation

        In order to further align management's interests with those of shareholders and to support the Company's governance practices, in 2010 the Board adopted a recoupment policy applicable to annual cash incentive awards, performance-based restricted shares and other performance-based compensation received by executive officers of the Company. The policy provides that if, as a result of a restatement of the Company's financial statements, an executive officer received more incentive compensation than the executive officer would have received absent the incorrect financial statements, the Company may takeshall recover said excess compensation (defined as the excess of (i) the actual amount of cash-based or equity-based incentive compensation received by the executive officer over (ii) the compensation that would have been received based on the restated financial results during the three-year period preceding the date on which the Company is required to prepare such action as it deems appropriate to address the impact of the restatement of financial statements.restatement). Compensation subject to recoupment will include equity or contingent income exercised, earned or distributed during the periods, not to exceed three years, which required restatement of financial statements.


Prohibition on Derivative Trading, Hedging and Short Selling

        The Company prohibits derivative transactions and selling short in the Company's securities by officers, directors and their families. Specifically, they may not, at any time:

    trade in any puts, calls, covered calls or other derivative products involving Company securities;

    engage in any hedging transactions with respect to Company securities; or

    engage in short sales of the Company's securities.


Tax Deductibility of Executive Compensation

        Internal Revenue Code Section 162(m) limits the deductibility by the Company for tax purposes of compensation in excess of $1,000,000 paid to the Chief Executive Officer and certain executive officers unless specified criteria are satisfied. The HRCC reviews and considers the deductibility of executive compensation under Section 162(m), and has generally designed the Company's compensation program in a manner that permits compensation to be deductible. However, grants of restricted stock, when and if those grants vest for tax purposes, may create compensation for the grantee that is subject to the


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limitations on deductibility under Section 162(m). The HRCC may award non-deductible compensation when it believes such action would be in the best interests of the Company.


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Report of the Human Resources and Compensation Committee

        The HRCC has reviewed and discussed the Compensation Discussion and Analysis required by Item 402(b) of Regulation S-K with Company management and, based on such review and discussion, the HRCC recommended to the Board that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in this proxy statement.

The Human Resources and Compensation Committee
Committee:

Todd C. McCarty, Chair
Jeffrey B. Sherman
Steven B. Silverstein


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Risk Considerations in our Compensation Policies

        Company management performs an annual risk assessment of the Company's compensation policies and plans. This risk assessment process includes a review of plan design and performance measures. Incentive compensation targets are reviewed annually and adjusted as necessary to align with the individual goals for executive officers. The HRCC reviews the risk assessment annually.

        The HRCC has determined that the Company's compensation program does not encourage excessive and unnecessary risk-taking. The Company designs the individual components of its compensation programsprogram to encourage appropriate risk-taking to maximize long-term business potential, while avoiding undue risk that does not align with short- and long-term shareholder objectives. This design encourages the Company's managers to remain focused on both the short- and long-term operational and financial goals of the Company. The following factors mitigate risk with respect to compensation programs: approval of executive compensation by a committee solely comprised of independent directors, performance-based short-term and long-term incentive awards aligned with shareholder interests, caps on incentive payments, use of multiple financial goals including both toptop- and bottom linebottom-line measures, stock ownership guidelines and an incentive recoupment policy (described on page 32)33).


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Summary Compensation Table

Name and Principal Position
 Year Salary
($)(1)
 Bonus
($)(2)
 Stock
Awards
($)(3)
 Option
Awards
($)(4)
 Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation
($)(5)
 Change in
Pension Value
and
Nonqualified
Deferred
Compensation
Earnings
($)(6)
 All Other
Compensation
($)(7)
 Total ($) 

Brendan L. Hoffman,

  2013  1,000,000  1,000,000  6,330,500(8)       125,087  8,455,587 

President and Chief

  2012  976,923  1,000,000  1,789,750(9)   500,000(10)   148,983  4,415,656 

Executive Officer

  2011                 

Stephen R. Byers,

  
2013
  
480,962
  
  
520,000

(11)
 
  
  
  
7,838
  
1,008,800
 

Executive Vice

  2012  479,423    77,550(12)       7,254  564,227 

President—Stores,

  2011  520,000    287,664(13)       6,593  814,257 

Visual and Loss Prevention

                            

Luis Fernandez,

  
2013
  
399,615
  
  
715,000

(14)
 
  
  
  
1,956
  
1,116,571
 

Executive Vice

  2012  270,385  60,000  89,250(15)       26,889  446,524 

President—Chief

  2011                 

Omnichannel Officer

                            

Tim Grumbacher,

  
2013
  
650,000
  
  
  
  
  
  
82,655
  
732,655
 

Strategic Initiatives

  2012  650,000            88,422  738,422 

Officer

  2011  650,000            70,740  720,740 

Keith E. Plowman,

  
2013
  
530,769
  
  
975,000

(16)
 
  
  
  
6,026
  
1,511,795
 

Executive Vice

  2012  510,000    232,650(17)       8,005  750,655 

President—Chief

  2011  504,625    788,310(18)       4,308  1,297,243 

Financial Officer

                            
Name and Principal Position
 Year Salary
($)(1)
 Bonus
($)(2)
 Stock
Awards
($)(3)
 Option
Awards
($)(4)
 Non-Equity
Incentive Plan
Compensation
($)(5)
 Change in
Pension Value
and
Nonqualified
Deferred
Compensation
Earnings
($)(6)
 All Other
Compensation
($)(7)
 Total ($) 

Kathryn Bufano

  2014  380,769  350,000  1,858,500(8)       47,888  2,637,157 

President and Chief

  2013                 

Executive Officer

  2012                 

Brendan L. Hoffman,

  
2014
  
1,000,000
  
  
1,275,000

(9)
 
  
  
  
106,285
  
2,381,285
 

President and Chief

  2013  1,000,000  1,000,000  6,330,500(10)       125,087  8,455,587 

Executive Officer through

  2012  976,923  1,000,000  1,789,750(11)   500,000(12)   148,983  4,415,656 

August 25, 2014

                            

Stephen R. Byers,

  
2014
  
485,000
  
  
474,300

(13)
 
  
  
  
6,873
  
966,173
 

Executive Vice President—

  2013  480,962    520,000(14)       7,838  1,008,800 

Stores, Visual and Loss

  2012  479,423    77,550(15)       7,254  564,227 

Prevention

                            

Luis Fernandez,

  
2014
  
425,000
  
  
474,300

(16)
 
  
  
  
2,575
  
901,875
 

Executive Vice President—

  2013  399,615    715,000(17)       1,956  1,116,571 

Chief Omnichannel

  2012  270,385  60,000  89,250(18)       26,889  446,524 

Officer

                            

Tim Grumbacher,

  
2014
  
650,000
  
  
  
  
  
  
63,921
  
713,921
 

Strategic Initiatives Officer

  2013  650,000            82,655  732,655 

  2012  650,000            88,422  738,422 

Keith E. Plowman,

  
2014
  
550,000
  
  
737,150

(19)
 
  
  
  
5,070
  
1,292,220
 

Executive Vice President—

  2013  530,769    975,000(20)       6,026  1,511,795 

Chief Financial Officer

  2012  510,000    232,650(21)       8,005  750,655 

(1)
Actual base salary payments made in 2014, 2013 2012 and 2011.2012.

(2)
"Bonus" refers to non-performance-based guaranteed cash payments. Pursuant to her employment agreement, Ms. Bufano received a signing bonus in 2014. Pursuant to their respective employment agreements, Mr. Hoffman and Mr. Fernandez each received a signing bonus in 2012 and Mr. Hoffman received an additional bonus in 2013. There were no such similar payments made in 2011. Other cash incentives were performance-based and are reflected under the column labeled "Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation."

(3)
The amounts reported in this column reflect the aggregate grant date fair value of restricted stock share awards computed in accordance with ASC 718 for restricted stock granted in 2014, 2013 2012 and 20112012 to each Named Executive Officer. The calculation of these amounts disregards any estimate of forfeitures related to time-based vesting conditions. The amounts do not reflect compensation actually received by the Named Executive Officers. Assumptions used in the calculation of these amounts are included in Note 1615 to our audited financial statements included in our Form 10-K filed with the SEC on April 16, 2014.15, 2015.

(4)
The amounts reported in this column would reflect the aggregate grant date fair value of option awards computed in accordance with ASC 718 for stock options granted in 2014, 2013 2012 and 20112012 to each Named Executive Officer. No stock options were granted in these years.

(5)
The amounts reported in this column reflect the annual performance-based bonus awards to the Named Executive Officers under the Company's Cash Bonus Plan, which is discussed on page 27 of the Compensation Discussion and Analysis under the heading "Performance-Based Annual Cash Incentive Compensation."

(6)
The Company has no defined benefit or actuarial pension plans in which the Named Executive Officers participate. The Company does not provide above-market or preferential earnings on nonqualified deferred compensation. Accordingly, all earnings in the nonqualified deferred compensation plan are omitted from the table.

(7)
The compensation reflected in the "All Other Compensation" column for each of the Named Executive Officers for 20132014 includes the following:

Name
 Automobile
Usage
($)
 Insurance
Consultation
Expenses
($)
 Tax Gross-Up
of Certain
Perquisites
($)
 Life
Insurance
Premiums
($)
 Imputed
Benefit of
Storage
Space
($)
 Commuting
Expenses
($)
 401(k) Plan
Company
Match
($)
 Total
($)
  Automobile
Usage
($)
 Insurance
Consultation
Expenses
($)
 Tax Gross-Up
of Certain
Perquisites
($)
 Life
Insurance
Premiums
($)
 Imputed
Benefit of
Storage
Space
($)
 Relocation/
Commuting
Expenses
($)
 401(k) Plan
Company
Match
($)
 Legal
Expenses
($)
 COBRA
($)
 Total
($)
 

Kathryn Bufano

   20,718 1,595  16,906  5,225 3,444 47,888 

Brendan L. Hoffman

   62,654 2,421  58,839 1,173 125,087    50,444 1,292  47,373   7,176 106,285 

Stephen R. Byers

    6,155   1,683 7,838     5,157   1,716   6,873 

Luis Fernandez

    850   1,106 1,956     1,015   1,560   2,575 

Tim Grumbacher

 2,055 29,400 25,135 19,012 4,605  2,448 82,655  9,073 15,850 13,551 18,346 4,605  2,496   63,921 

Keith E. Plowman

    4,037   1,989 6,026     3,042   2,028   5,070 
(8)
The grant date fair value of 2014 time-based restricted stock awarded to Ms. Bufano was $1,858,500. The grant date fair value of 2014 performance-based restricted stock awarded to Ms. Bufano was zero, computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that zero percent of the performance target would be met for the 2014 year. Based upon 2014 performance, the actual grant date fair value to Ms. Bufano for 2014 performance-based restricted stock was zero. An additional 100,000 performance-based restricted shares were awarded to Ms. Bufano in 2014 but were excluded from the Summary Compensation table as the two awards, each consisting of 50,000 shares, are contingent upon, respectively, 2015 performance for which criteria was not established by the HRCC until March 2015 and 2016 performance for which criteria will be established in March 2016.

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(8)(9)
The grant date fair value of 2014 performance-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Hoffman was $1,275,000, computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that 100% of the performance target would be met for the 2014 year. Based upon 2014 performance, the actual grant date fair value to Mr. Hoffman for 2014 performance-based restricted stock was zero. The grant date fair value of 2014 performance-based restricted stock consists of 125,000 performance-based restricted shares awarded to Mr. Hoffman in 2012 that were excluded from the Summary Compensation table in 2012 as the award was contingent upon 2014 performance for which criteria was not established by the HRCC until March 2014. See footnote 11 below.

(10)
The grant date fair value of 2013 time-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Hoffman was $1,300,000. The grant date fair value of 2013 performance-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Hoffman was $1,670,000, computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that 100% of the performance target would be met for the 2013 year. Based upon 2013 performance, the actual grant date fair value to Mr. Hoffman for 2013 performance-based restricted stock was zero. The grant date fair value of 2013 performance-based restricted stock includes 125,000 performance-based restricted shares awarded to Mr. Hoffman in 2012 that were excluded from the Summary Compensation Tabletable in 2012 as the award was contingent upon 2013 performance for which criteria was not established by the HRCC until March 2013. See footnote 911 below. The grant date fair value of performance-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Hoffman in 2013 based on achievement of Company performance goals for the cumulative two-year period of 2013 and 2014, assuming the target number of shares iswas earned, was $760,500 and the grant date fair value of performance-based restricted stock based on achievement of Company performance goals for the cumulative three-year period of 2013, 2014 and 2015, assuming the target number of shares iswas earned, was $2,600,000. Both of these values were computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that 100% of the performance target would be met for the respective cumulative two- and three-year periods. For Mr. Hoffman to receivehave received restricted shares above target, the TSR for the respective two- and three-year periods must behave been positive. Pursuant to the Amendment to Mr. Hoffman's employment agreement, the aforementioned cumulative three-year grant was forfeited on September 9, 2014 upon Mr. Hoffman's termination from the Company.

(9)(11)
The grant date fair value of 2012 time-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Hoffman was $1,575,000. The grant date fair value of 2012 performance-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Hoffman was $214,750, computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that 50% of the performance target would be met for the 2012 year. Based upon 2012 performance, the actual grant date fair value to Mr. Hoffman for 2012 performance-based restricted stock was zero. An additional 250,000 performance-based restricted shares were awarded to Mr. Hoffman in 2012 but were excluded from the Summary Compensation Tabletable as the two awards, each consisting of 125,000 shares, arewere contingent upon, respectively, 2013 performance for which criteria was not established by the HRCC until March 2013 and 2014 performance for which criteria was not established until March 2014.

(10)(12)
In 2012, Mr. Hoffman received a minimum performance-based cash bonus of $500,000, which was awarded pursuant to the terms of his employment agreement.

(11)(13)
The grant date fair value of 2014 time-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Byers was $242,325. The grant date fair value of 2014 performance-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Byers was $79,275, computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that 100% of the performance target would be met for the 2014 year. Based upon 2014 performance, the actual grant date fair value to Mr. Byers for 2014 performance-based restricted stock was zero. The grant date fair value of performance-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Byers in 2014 based on achievement of Company performance goals for the cumulative three-year period of 2014, 2015 and 2016, assuming the target number of shares is earned, was $152,700, computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that 100% of the performance target would be met for the cumulative three-year period. For Mr. Byers to receive restricted shares above target, the TSR for the three-year period must be positive.

(14)
The grant date fair value of 2013 time-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Byers was $195,000. The grant date fair value of 2013 performance-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Byers was $130,000, computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that 100% of the performance target would be met for the 2013 year. Based upon 2013 performance, the actual grant date fair value to Mr. Byers for 2013 performance-based restricted stock was zero. The grant date fair value of performance-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Byers in 2013 based on achievement of Company performance goals for the cumulative three-year period of 2013, 2014 and 2015, assuming the target number of shares is earned, was $195,000, computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that 100% of the performance target would be met for the cumulative three-year period. For Mr. Byers to receive restricted shares above target, the TSR for the three-year period must be positive.

(12)(15)
The grant date fair value of 2012 time-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Byers was $42,300. The grant date fair value of 2012 performance-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Byers was $35,250, computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that 50% of the performance target would be met for the 2012 year. Based upon 2012 performance, the actual grant date fair value to Mr. Byers for 2012 performance-based restricted stock was zero.

(13)(16)
The grant date fair value of 20112014 time-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. ByersFernandez was $138,300.$242,325. The grant date fair value of 20112014 performance-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. ByersFernandez was $149,364,$79,275, computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that 90%100% of the performance target would be met for the 20112014 year. Based upon 20112014 performance, the actual grant date fair value to Mr. ByersFernandez for 20112014 performance-based restricted stock was zero. The grant date fair value of performance-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Fernandez in 2014 based on achievement of Company performance goals for the cumulative three-year period of 2014, 2015 and 2016, assuming the target number of shares is earned, was $152,700, computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that 100% of the performance target would be met for the cumulative three-year period. For Mr. Fernandez to receive restricted shares above target, the TSR for the three-year period must be positive.

(14)(17)
The grant date fair value of 2013 time-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Fernandez was $390,000. The grant date fair value of 2013 performance-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Fernandez was $130,000, computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that 100% of the performance target would be met for the 2013 year. Based upon 2013 performance, the actual grant date fair value to Mr. Fernandez for 2013 performance-based restricted stock was zero. The grant date fair value of performance-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Fernandez in 2013 based on achievement of Company performance goals for the cumulative three-year period of 2013, 2014 and 2015, assuming the target number of shares is earned, was $195,000, computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that 100% of the performance target would be met for the cumulative three-year period. For Mr. Fernandez to receive restricted shares above target, the TSR for the three-year period must be positive.

(15)(18)
The grant date fair value of 2012 time-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Fernandez was $59,500. The grant date fair value of 2012 performance-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Fernandez was $29,750, computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that 50% of the performance target would be met for the 2012 year. Based upon 2012 performance, the actual grant date fair value to Mr. Fernandez for 2012 performance-based restricted stock was zero.

(16)(19)
The grant date fair value of 2014 time-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Plowman was $376,950. The grant date fair value of 2014 performance-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Plowman was $105,700, computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that 100% of the performance target would be met for the 2014 year. Based upon 2014 performance, the actual grant date fair value to Mr. Plowman for 2014 performance-based restricted stock was zero. The grant date fair value of performance-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Plowman in 2014 based on achievement of Company performance goals for the cumulative three-year period of 2014, 2015 and 2016, assuming the target number of shares was earned, was $254,500, computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that 100% of the performance target would be

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    met for the cumulative three-year period. For Mr. Plowman to receive restricted shares above target, the TSR for the three-year period must be positive.

(20)
The grant date fair value of 2013 time-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Plowman was $195,000. The grant date fair value of 2013 performance-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Plowman was $260,000, computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that 100% of the performance target would be met for the 2013 year. Based upon 2013 performance, the actual grant date fair value to Mr. Plowman for 2013 performance-based restricted stock was zero. The grant date fair value of performance-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Plowman in 2013 based on achievement of Company performance goals for the cumulative three-year period of 2013, 2014 and 2015, assuming the target number of shares iswas earned, was $520,000, computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that 100% of the performance target would be met for the cumulative three-year period. For Mr. Plowman to receive restricted shares above target, the TSR for the three-year period must be positive.

(17)(21)
The grant date fair value of 2012 time-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Plowman was $56,400. The grant date fair value of 2012 performance-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Plowman was $176,250, computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that 50% of the performance target would be met for the 2012 year. Based upon 2012 performance, the actual grant date fair value to Mr. Plowman for 2012 performance-based restricted stock was zero.

(18)
The grant date fair value of 2011 time-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Plowman was $165,960. The grant date fair value of 2011 performance-based restricted stock awarded to Mr. Plowman was $622,350, computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that 90% of the performance target would be met for the 2011 year. Based upon 2011 performance, the actual grant date fair value to Mr. Plowman for 2011 performance-based restricted stock was zero.

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Grants of Plan-Based Awards

        The table below provides information regarding the Cash Bonus Plan and awards of restricted stock ("RS") made during 20132014 to the Named Executive Officers under the Company's Stock Incentive Plan. Stock options and awards of restricted stock generally vest over a number of years. Any vested options are usually forfeited 90 days after termination of the recipient's employment, and any unvested shares of restricted stock and unvested options are usually forfeited upon termination of employment.


  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 All
Other
Stock
Awards;
Number
of
Shares
of
Stock
or
Units
(#)(3)
  
   
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 All Other
Stock
Awards;
Number of
Shares of
Stock or
Units
(#)(3)
  
 

  
 Grant
Date
for
Equity-
Based
Awards
 Estimated Possible Payouts
Under Non-Equity Incentive
Plan Awards(1)
 Estimated Possible Payouts
Under Equity Incentive
Plan Awards(2)
 Grant
Date
Fair
Value of
Stock
Awards
($)(4)
   
 Grant
Date
for
Equity-
Based
Awards
 Estimated Possible Payouts
Under Non-Equity Incentive
Plan Awards(1)
 Estimated Possible Payouts
Under Equity Incentive
Plan Awards(2)
 Grant
Date
Fair
Value of
Stock
Awards
($)(4)
 
Name
 Award Type Threshold
($)
 Target
($)
 Maximum
($)
 Threshold
(#)
 Target
(#)
 Maximum
(#)
All
Other
Stock
Awards;
Number
of
Shares
of
Stock
or
Units
(#)(3)
 Award Type Threshold
($)
 Target
($)
 Maximum
($)
 Threshold
(#)
 Target
(#)
 Maximum
(#)
All Other
Stock
Awards;
Number of
Shares of
Stock or
Units
(#)(3)

Brendan L. Hoffman

 Cash Bonus Plan n/a 500,000 1,000,000 2,000,000     

Kathryn Bufano

 Cash Bonus Plan n/a 225,000 900,000 1,800,000     

 Performance RS(5) 3/19/13    62,500 125,000   1,670,000  Performance RS(5) 8/25/14    37,500 75,000    

 Performance RS—3-yr.(6) 4/17/13    100,000 200,000 300,000  2,600,000  Time-based RS 8/25/14       175,000 1,858,500 

 Performance RS—2-yr.(7) 5/6/13    25,000 50,000 75,000  760,500 

Brendan L. Hoffman

 

Cash Bonus Plan

 
n/a
 
250,000
 
1,000,000
 
2,000,000
 
 
 
 
 
 

 Time-based RS 4/17/13       100,000 1,300,000  Performance RS(6) 3/18/14    62,500 125,000   1,275,000 

Stephen R. Byers

 

Cash Bonus Plan

 

n/a

 
121,300
 
242,500
 
485,000
 
 
 
 
 
  

Cash Bonus Plan

 
n/a
 
60,625
 
242,500
 
485,000
 
 
 
 
 
 

 Performance RS(5) 4/17/13    5,000 10,000   130,000  Performance RS(7) 4/15/14    3,750 7,500   79,275 

 Performance RS—3-yr.(6) 4/17/13    7,500 15,000 22,500  195,000  Performance RS—3-yr.(8) 4/15/14    3,750 15,000 22,500  152,700 

 Time-based RS 4/17/13       15,000 195,000  Time-based RS 4/15/14       22,500 242,325 

Luis Fernandez

 

Cash Bonus Plan

 

n/a

 
100,000
 
200,000
 
400,000
 
 
 
 
 
  

Cash Bonus Plan

 
n/a
 
53,125
 
212,500
 
425,000
 
 
 
 
 
 

 Performance RS(5) 4/17/13    5,000 10,000   130,000  Performance RS(7) 4/15/14    3,750 7,500   79,275 

 Performance RS—3-yr.(6) 4/17/13    7,500 15,000 22,500  195,000  Performance RS—3-yr.(8) 4/15/14    3,750 15,000 22,500  152,700 

 Time-based RS 4/17/13       30,000 390,000  Time-based RS 4/15/14       22,500 242,325 

Keith E. Plowman

 

Cash Bonus Plan

 

n/a

 
198,800
 
397,500
 
795,000
 
 
 
 
 
  

Cash Bonus Plan

 
n/a
 
103,125
 
412,500
 
825,000
 
 
 
 
 
 

 Performance RS(5) 4/17/13    10,000 20,000   260,000  Performance RS(7) 4/15/14    5,000 10,000   105,700 

 Performance RS—3-yr.(6) 4/17/13    20,000 40,000 60,000  520,000  Performance RS—3-yr.(8) 4/15/14    6,250 25,000 37,500  254,500 

 Time-based RS 4/17/13       15,000 195,000  Time-based RS 4/15/14       35,000 376,950 

(1)
Represents the range of cash payouts targeted for 20132014 performance under the Cash Bonus Plan described in the Compensation Discussion and Analysis on page 27 under the heading "Performance-Based Annual Cash Incentive Compensation." The amounts shown in the "Threshold" column reflect the minimum payout opportunity if threshold performance was achieved. As the adjusted EBITDA and net income threshold wassales thresholds were not met, there was no payout under the Cash Bonus Plan.

(2)
Represents the range of performance-based restricted share payouts subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals established by the HRCC. Information regarding the vesting schedules of these awards is included in the footnotes to the Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End on page 38.39. Dividends are not paid on performance-based restricted shares until such shares are vested. Performance-based restricted shares will vest on an accelerated basis upon the executive's termination of employment under certain circumstances. Additional information regarding the vesting acceleration provisions applicable to equity awards is included under the heading "Potential Payments uponUpon Termination or Change in Control" on page 44.47.

(3)
Represents awards of restricted shares made under the Stock Incentive Plan. Information regarding the vesting schedules of these awards is included in the footnotes to the Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End table on page 38.39. Dividends are generally paid on unvested restricted shares when dividends are paid on Company common stock. Restricted shares will vest on an accelerated basis upon the executive's termination of employment under certain circumstances. Additional information regarding the vesting acceleration provisions applicable to equity awards is included under the heading "Potential Payments uponUpon Termination or Change in Control" on page 44.47.

(4)
Represents the grant date fair value of each equity award computed in accordance with ASC 718. The dollar value of restricted shares shown represents the grant date fair value calculated as the fair market value of our common stock on the respective grant dates. The fair market value of time-based restricted shares reflects anticipated payment of dividends during the vesting period, while the fair market value of performance-based restricted shares is adjusted to reflect no such payments and, where applicable, consideration of TSR criteria. The dollar value of performance-based restricted shares awarded is computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that 100% of the performance targets would be met for each

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    respective award.award, with the exception of performance-based restricted shares awarded to Ms. Bufano, for which the dollar value was computed based upon an assessment, as of the grant date, that it was probable that zero percent of the performance targets would be met.

(5)
Represents the award of performance-based restricted shares granted to Ms. Bufano for which performance goals were established by the HRCC on March 18, 2014. These performance-based restricted shares are earned based on the achievement of goals for 2014. As performance thresholds with respect to 2014 performance were not met, none of the target performance-based restricted shares were actually earned. Reference footnote 8 to the Summary Compensation table.

(5)(6)
Represents the award of performance-based restricted shares granted to Mr. Hoffman for which performance goals were established by the HRCC on March 18, 2014. These performance-based restricted shares are earned based on the achievement of goals for 2014. As performance thresholds with respect to 2014 performance were not met, none of the target performance-based restricted shares were actually earned. Reference footnote 9 to the Summary Compensation table.

(7)
Represents the award of performance-based restricted shares granted for which performance goals were established by the HRCC on March 19, 2013.18, 2014. These performance-based restricted shares are earned based on the achievement of goals for 2013.2014. As performance thresholds with respect to 20132014 performance were not met, none of the target performance-based restricted shares were actually earned. Reference footnotes 8, 11, 1413, 16 and 1619 to the Summary Compensation Table.table.

(6)(8)
Represents the award of performance-based restricted shares which are subject to vesting based on achievement of performance goals established for 2013, 2014, 2015 and 20152016 on an aggregate basis for the three-year period. The selected performance metrics were established by the HRCC on March 26, 2013.18, 2014. For the Named Executive Officer to receive restricted shares above target, the TSR for the three-year period must be positive.

(7)
Represents the award of performance-based restricted shares which are subject to vesting based on achievement of performance goals established for 2013 and 2014 on an aggregate basis for the two-year period. The selected performance metrics were established by the HRCC on March 26, 2013. For Mr. Hoffman to receive restricted shares above target, the TSR for the two-year period must be positive.

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Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End


 Option Awards Stock Awards  Option Awards Stock Awards 
Name
 Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options—
Exercisable
(#)
 Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options—
Unexercisable
(#)
 Equity
Incentive
Plan Awards:
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Unearned
Options
(#)
 Option
Exercise
Price
($)
 Option
Expiration
Date
 Number of
Shares or
Units of
Stock That
Have Not
Vested
(#)
 Market
Value
of Shares
or Units
of Stock
That Have
Not
Vested
($)(1)
 Equity
Incentive
Plan
Awards:
Number of
Unearned
Shares,
Units
or Other
Rights That
Have Not
Vested
(#)
 Equity
Incentive
Plan
Awards:
Market or
Payout Value
of Unearned
Shares,
Units
or Other
Rights That
Have Not
Vested
($)(1)
  Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options—
Exercisable
(#)
 Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options—
Unexercisable
(#)
 Equity
Incentive
Plan Awards:
Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Unearned
Options
(#)
 Option
Exercise
Price
($)
 Option
Expiration
Date
 Number of
Shares or
Units of
Stock That
Have Not
Vested
(#)
 Market
Value
of Shares
or Units
of Stock
That Have
Not
Vested
($)(1)
 Equity
Incentive
Plan
Awards:
Number of
Unearned
Shares,
Units
or Other
Rights That
Have Not
Vested
(#)
 Equity
Incentive
Plan
Awards:
Market or
Payout Value
of Unearned
Shares,
Units
or Other
Rights That
Have Not
Vested
($)(1)
 

Brendan L. Hoffman

      200,000(2) 2,150,000   

      100,000(3) 1,075,000   

        125,000(4) 1,343,750 

        200,000(5) 2,150,000 

        100,000(6) 1,075,000 

        50,000(7) 537,500 

Kathryn Bufano

      175,000(2) 959,000   

        25,000(8) 268,750         100,000(3) 548,000 

Stephen R. Byers

 
11,019
 
 
 
55.85
 
3/26/2014
 
 
 
 
  
50,000
 
 
 
4.96
 
3/17/2015
 
 
 
 
 

      6,000(4) 32,880   

 50,000   4.96 3/17/2015           15,000(5) 82,200   

      15,000(3) 161,250         22,500(6) 123,300   

      10,000(9) 107,500           15,000(7) 82,200 

      6,000(10) 64,500           7,500(8) 41,100 

        15,000(5) 161,250         15,000(9) 82,200 

        7,500(6) 80,625         7,500(10) 41,100 

Luis Fernandez

 
 
 
 
 
 
30,000

(3)
 
322,500
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
30,000

(5)
 
164,400
 
 
 

        15,000(5) 161,250       22,500(6) 123,300   

        7,500(6) 80,625         15,000(7) 82,200 

        7,500(8) 41,100 

        15,000(9) 82,200 

        7,500(10) 41,100 

Keith E. Plowman

 
11,019
 
 
 
55.85
 
3/26/2014
 
 
 
 
  
40,000
 
 
 
4.96
 
3/17/2015
 
 
 
 
 

 40,000   4.96 3/17/2015           8,000(4) 43,840   

      15,000(3) 161,250         15,000(5) 82,200   

      12,000(9) 129,000         35,000(11) 191,800   

      8,000(10) 86,000           40,000(7) 219,200 

        40,000(5) 430,000         20,000(8) 109,600 

        20,000(6) 215,000         25,000(9) 137,000 

        12,500(10) 68,500 

(1)
Market values reflect the closing price of the Company's common stock on the NASDAQ Stock Market on January 31, 201430, 2015 (the last business day of the fiscal year), which was $10.75$5.48 per share.

(2)
Restricted shares 100,000 of whichvest 87,500 each on August 25, 2016 and August 25, 2017.

(3)
Performance-based restricted shares vest 50,000 each based on 2015 performance criteria established by the HRCC and 2016 performance criteria to be established by the HRCC.

(4)
Restricted shares vested 100% on February 7, 2014 and 100,000 of which vest on February 7,April 17, 2015.

(3)(5)
Restricted shares vest 100% on April 17, 2016.

(4)(6)
Performance-based restrictedRestricted shares vest based100% on 2014 performance criteria established by the HRCC in March 2014.April 15, 2017.


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(5)(7)
Performance-based restricted shares vest based on performance criteria established by the HRCC for 2013, 2014 and 2015 on an aggregate basis for the three-year period.

(6)(8)
Performance-based restricted shares vest based on performance criteria established by the HRCC for 2013, 2014 and 2015 on an aggregate basis for the three-year period with the additional performance requirement that the TSR for the three-year period be positive.

(7)(9)
Performance-based restricted shares vest based on performance criteria established by the HRCC for 20132014, 2015 and 20142016 on an aggregate basis for the two-yearthree-year period.

(8)(10)
Performance-based restricted shares vest based on performance criteria established by the HRCC for 20132014, 2015 and 20142016 on an aggregate basis for the two-yearthree-year period with the additional performance requirement that the TSR for the two-yearthree-year period be positive.

(9)
Restricted shares vested 100% on April 18, 2014.

(10)(11)
Restricted shares vest 100% on April 17, 2015.an accelerated basis on January 29, 2017 pursuant to the terms of the Separation Agreement between Mr. Plowman and the Company.

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Option Exercises and Stock Vested During 20132014


 Option Awards Stock Awards  Option Awards Stock Awards 

 Number of
Shares Acquired
on Exercise
(#)
 Value Realized
on Exercise
($)
 Number of
Shares Acquired
on Vesting
(#)
 Value Realized
on Vesting
($)(1)
  Number of
Shares Acquired
on Exercise
(#)
 Value Realized
on Exercise
($)
 Number of
Shares Acquired
on Vesting
(#)
 Value Realized
on Vesting
($)(1)
 

Brendan L. Hoffman

   100,000 1,162,000    200,000 1,959,000 

Stephen R. Byers

   5,000 68,400    10,000 109,100 

Keith E. Plowman

   25,000 342,000    12,000 130,920 

(1)
Value reflects the closing price of the Company's common stock on the NASDAQ Stock Market on the respective vesting date of the restricted stock awards.

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Summary of Employment Agreements with
Named Executive Officers

Kathryn Bufano, President and Chief Executive Officer

        The Company and Ms. Bufano entered into an employment agreement (the "Bufano Employment Agreement") dated July 28, 2014 and effective as of August 25, 2014 (the "effective date"). The Bufano Employment Agreement will terminate on the third anniversary of the effective date, unless sooner terminated in accordance with the terms of the Bufano Employment Agreement.

        Ms. Bufano's initial base salary under the Bufano Employment Agreement is $900,000 per year. The base salary is subject to review during the term of the Bufano Employment Agreement and may be increased, but not decreased, at the discretion of the Board.

        The Bufano Employment Agreement provides that Ms. Bufano will be paid a signing bonus of $350,000 within thirty days following the effective date and an additional $250,000 in or about March 2015, so long as Ms. Bufano is employed by the Company at such time. Ms. Bufano subsequently received both signing bonuses.

        The Bufano Employment Agreement provides that Ms. Bufano is eligible for a bonus under the Cash Bonus Plan under the following parameters: a target bonus of 100% of base salary, a threshold bonus of 50% of base salary, and a maximum bonus of 200% of base salary. The performance measures to be utilized and the weighting of these performance measures will be determined by the HRCC in accordance with the terms of the Cash Bonus Plan. With respect to 2014, the Bufano Employment Agreement provided that Ms. Bufano was eligible for a pro-rated cash bonus based upon the time Ms. Bufano was employed by the Company during 2014. As the Cash Bonus Plan adjusted EBITDA and net sales thresholds were not achieved in 2014, Ms. Bufano did not receive any cash bonus, as is further detailed under "Performance-Based Annual Cash Incentive Compensation" beginning on page 27.

        The Bufano Employment Agreement provides that Ms. Bufano receive a grant of 175,000 restricted shares of the Company's common stock. Such restricted shares shall vest 50% on the second anniversary of the effective date and 50% on the third anniversary of the effective date. In addition, Ms. Bufano received, as performance-based compensation, a grant of 175,000 restricted shares of the Company's common stock, 75,000 of which were subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals for 2014, and 50,000 of which are subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals for each of 2015 and 2016. As the performance goals for 2014 were not attained, the restricted stock award relating to 2014 performance goals was forfeited.

        The Bufano Employment Agreement provides that Ms. Bufano is eligible to receive additional equity-based compensation as determined by the Board or the HRCC in line with past practices of making equity awards to the president and chief executive officer.

        The Company has agreed to reimburse Ms. Bufano for all expenses related to Ms. Bufano's relocation to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in accordance with the Company's policy on relocation of senior executives, including additional amounts for the payment of related federal and state taxes. Ms. Bufano will also be eligible to participate in the Company's health plans and other plans and programs generally available to the Company's employees and executives.

        In the event of discharge without "Cause" or resignation for "Good Reason" (as such terms are defined in the Bufano Employment Agreement) during the term of the Bufano Employment Agreement, Ms. Bufano will be entitled to receive (1) severance pay equal to the greater of her base salary for the remaining contract term or 150% of her base salary, (2) an amount equal to 18 times the monthly COBRA payment applicable to her as of the termination date, and (3) an amount equal to the annual bonus Ms. Bufano would have received with respect to the fiscal year of termination, prorated


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based on the number of days employed by the Company during that year. The severance payment will be payable 50% in a lump sum as of the six-month anniversary of Ms. Bufano's termination of employment and 50% in a lump sum as of the one-year anniversary of Ms. Bufano's termination of employment. The severance payment is contingent on Ms. Bufano signing and not timely revoking a general release of claims. In addition, in the event of discharge without Cause or resignation for Good Reason, any unvested time-based restricted stock issued pursuant to the Restricted Stock Agreements will automatically vest in full, and any unvested performance-based restricted stock issued pursuant to the Restricted Stock Agreements will remain outstanding through the applicable performance period (without regard to any continued employment requirement) and shall vest to the extent that the performance measures are attained; any other unvested restricted stock will be forfeited.

        If following a "Change in Control" (as such term is defined in the Bufano Employment Agreement) Ms. Bufano is discharged without Cause or resigns for Good Reason within one year following the consummation of the Change in Control, Ms. Bufano will receive (1) a severance payment equal to 1.5 times her base salary, (2) an amount equal to 1.5 times Ms. Bufano's "average annual bonus" (as such term is defined in the Bufano Employment Agreement), (3) an amount equal to 18 times the monthly COBRA payment applicable to her as of the termination date, and (4) an amount equal to the annual bonus Ms. Bufano would have received with respect to the fiscal year of termination, prorated based on the number of days employed by the Company during that year. The Change in Control severance payment will be payable 50% in a lump sum as of the six-month anniversary of Ms. Bufano's termination of employment and 50% in a lump sum as of the one-year anniversary of Ms. Bufano's termination of employment. The Change in Control severance payment is contingent on Ms. Bufano signing and not timely revoking a general release of claims. Pursuant to the Bufano Employment Agreement, if the aggregate present value of the "parachute payments" determined under Section 280G of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, exceeds three times her "base amount," as defined in Section 280G, the payouts upon a Change in Control shall be reduced to be less than three times her base amount.

        For information regarding potential severance payments and accelerated vesting of equity awards to which Ms. Bufano may be entitled upon certain events and/or a Change in Control, see "Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control" on page 47.

        The Bufano Employment Agreement contains a non-solicitation clause that, during Ms. Bufano's employment and for a period of one year following termination of her employment, prohibits Ms. Bufano from, directly or indirectly, soliciting, inducing, encouraging, influencing or otherwise causing any customer, employee, consultant, independent contractor or supplier of the Company to change his, her or its business relationship with or terminate employment with the Company.

        The Bufano Employment Agreement contains a non-competition clause that, during Ms. Bufano's employment and for a period of one year following termination of her employment, prohibits Ms. Bufano from being engaged by, engaging in business with or being financially interested in any "competitor" of the Company (as such term is defined in the Bufano Employment Agreement), other than the passive ownership of less than 2% of any class of securities of a company. The Bufano Employment Agreement also contains provisions relating to the Company's property and the Company's confidential information.

Brendan L. Hoffman, President and Chief Executive Officer through August 25, 2014

        On January 23, 2012, the Company entered into an employment agreement (the "Hoffman Employment Agreement") with Mr. Hoffman providing that he would serve as President and Chief Executive Officer effective February 7, 2012, with a term running through February 7, 2015.2015 (the "Expiration Date"). On March 5, 2014, Mr. Hoffman informed the Board that he would not renew the Hoffman Employment Agreement upon its expiration. On July 16, 2014, the Company entered into the


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Amendment to the Hoffman Employment Agreement, reflecting an agreement between the Company and Mr. Hoffman regarding the terms of his employment with the Company until the Expiration Date. The Amendment amended the Hoffman Employment Agreement to, among other things, provide that:

    In the event the Company terminated Mr. Hoffman's employment prior to the Expiration Date, Mr. Hoffman would be entitled to receive the full amount of any annual bonus Mr. Hoffman would have otherwise earned for 2014 had he been retained by the Company until the Expiration Date.

    In the event the Company terminated Mr. Hoffman's employment prior to the Expiration Date, the restrictions on certain grants of time-based and performance-based restricted shares (subject to the attainment of performance goals underlying such performance-based vesting restricted shares) would in each case lapse and such restricted shares would become fully vested; and all other equity based compensation awarded to Mr. Hoffman would be forfeited. (For information regarding the vesting or forfeiture of grants of restricted shares pursuant to the terms of the Amendment, see "Long-Term Equity Incentive Compensation" on page 28.)

    Upon termination of employment prior to the Effective Date, for any reason, Mr. Hoffman would be entitled to receive only his salary and applicable COBRA payments through the Expiration Date.

    Following Mr. Hoffman's employment with the Company, regardless of the reason or timing of Mr. Hoffman's termination, Mr. Hoffman would not be restricted from pursuing other employment opportunities.

        Mr. Hoffman's initial base salary under the Hoffman Employment Agreement iswas $1,000,000 per year and providesprovided that Mr. Hoffman would be paid a signing bonus of $1,000,000 within thirty days following the effective date and $1,000,000 on the first anniversary of the effective date if he iswas still employed by the Company at that time. Mr. Hoffman subsequently received both signing bonuses.

        The Hoffman Employment Agreement providesprovided that Mr. Hoffman iswas eligible for a bonus under the Cash Bonus Plan under the following parameters: a target bonus of 100% of base salary, with a threshold bonus of 50% of base salary, and a maximum bonus of 200% of base salary. The performance measures to be utilized and the weighting of these performance measures arewere determined by the HRCC in its discretion. With respect to 2013,2014, the Cash Bonus Plan adjusted EBITDA and net income threshold wassales thresholds were not achieved, and, therefore, Mr. Hoffman did not receive any cash bonus, as is further detailed under "Performance-Based Annual Cash Incentive Compensation" beginning on page 27. With respect to 2012, the Hoffman Employment Agreement provided that Mr. Hoffman would receive a minimum cash bonus of $500,000.

        The Hoffman Employment Agreement providesprovided that Mr. Hoffman receive a grant of 300,000 restricted shares of the Company's common stock, of which 100,000 shares vested on each of February 7, 2013 and February 7, 2014 and 100,000 shares vestvested on February 7, 2015, provided that Mr.an accelerated basis on September 9, 2014 pursuant to the terms of the Amendment to the Hoffman is still employed by the Company.Employment Agreement. In addition, Mr. Hoffman received, as performance-based compensation, a grant of 300,000 restricted shares of the Company's common stock, 50,000, 125,000 and 125,000 of which were subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals for 2012, 2013 and 2013, respectively, and 125,000 of which are subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals for 2014.2014, respectively. As the performance goals for 2012, 2013 and 20132014 were not attained, the restricted stock awards relating to 2012, 2013 and 20132014 performance goals were forfeited.

        The Hoffman Employment Agreement providesprovided that Mr. Hoffman iswas eligible to receive additional equity-based compensation as determined by the Board of Directors or the HRCC in line with the past practices of making equity awards to the president and chief executive officer. The equity grants awarded to Mr. Hoffman are detailed on page 29.


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        The Company has agreed to reimburse Mr. Hoffman for all expenses related to Mr. Hoffman's relocation to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, in accordance with the Company's policy on relocation of senior executives, including additional amounts for the payment of related federal and state taxes. Pending Mr. Hoffman's relocation, the Company has agreed to reimburse Mr. Hoffman for his travel between New York, New York and the Company's offices, stores and facilities, including lodging, up to $75,000 per year. The Company has also agreed to gross up the payments made to Mr. Hoffman for these travel and lodging expenses.expenses for the payment of related federal and state taxes. Mr. Hoffman willwas also be eligible to participate in the Company's health plans and other plans and programs generally available to the Company's employees.

        In the event of discharge without "Cause" or resignation for "Good Reason" (as such terms arewere defined in the Hoffman Employment Agreement) during the term of the Hoffman Employment Agreement, Mr. Hoffman will bewas entitled to receive (1) severance pay equal to the greater of his base salary for the remaining contract term or 200% of his base salary, (2) an amount equal to 24 times the monthly COBRA payment applicable to him as of the termination date, (3) an amount equal to the annual bonus Mr. Hoffman would have received with respect to the fiscal year of termination, prorated based on the number of days employed by the Company during that year, and (4) any unpaid signing


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bonus amounts. The severance payment willwould be payable 50% in a lump sum as of the six month anniversary of Mr. Hoffman's termination of employment and 50% in a lump sum as of the one-year anniversary of Mr. Hoffman's termination of employment. The severance payment iswas contingent on Mr. Hoffman signing and not timely revoking a general release of claims. In addition, in the event of discharge without Cause or resignation for Good Reason, any unvested restricted stock issued pursuant to the Restricted Stock Agreements willwould automatically vest in full.

        Upon a "Change in Control" (as such term iswas defined in the Hoffman Employment Agreement), the vesting of stock options and restricted shares held by Mr. Hoffman shallwere to be governed by the terms of such stock options or restricted shares award. If following a Change in Control Mr. Hoffman iswas discharged without Cause or resignsresigned for Good Reason within one year following the Change in Control, Mr. Hoffman willwould receive (1) a severance payment equal to two times his base salary, (2) an amount equal to two times the average annual bonus paid to him during the term of the Hoffman Employment Agreement, (3) an amount equal to 24 times the monthly COBRA payment applicable to him as of the termination date, and (4) an amount equal to the annual bonus Mr. Hoffman would have received with respect to the fiscal year of termination, prorated based on the number of days employed by the Company during that year. The Change in Control severance payment willwould be payable 50% in a lump sum as of the six month anniversary of Mr. Hoffman's termination of employment and 50% in a lump sum as of the one-year anniversary of Mr. Hoffman's termination of employment. The Change in Control severance payment iswas contingent on Mr. Hoffman signing and not timely revoking a general release of claims. Pursuant to the Hoffman Employment Agreement, if the aggregate present value of the "parachute payments" determined under Section 280G of the Internal Revenue Code exceedsexceeded three times his "base amount," as defined in Section 280G, the payouts upon a Change in Control shallwere to be reduced to be less than three times his base amount.

        For information regarding potential severance payments and accelerated vesting of equity awards to which Mr. Hoffman may be entitled upon certain events and/or a Change in Control, see "Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control" on page 44.

The Hoffman Employment Agreement containscontained a non-solicitation clause that, during Mr. Hoffman's employment and for a period of two years following termination of his employment, prohibitsprohibited Mr. Hoffman from, directly or indirectly, soliciting, inducing, encouraging, influencing or otherwise causing any customer, employee, consultant, independent contractor or supplier of the Company to change his, her or its business relationship with or terminate employment with the Company.


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        The Hoffman Employment Agreement containscontained a non-competition clause that, during Mr. Hoffman's employment and for a period of one year following termination of his employment, prohibitsprohibited Mr. Hoffman from engaging in or being financially interested in any competitor of the Company, as named in the Hoffman Employment Agreement, other than the passive ownership of less than 2% of any class of securities of a company. Pursuant to the terms of the Amendment to the Hoffman Employment Agreement, these employment restrictions were revoked. The Hoffman Employment Agreement also containscontained confidentiality provisions relating to the Company's confidential information.

        Mr. Hoffman has announced that he will not renew his contract upon its expiration in February 2015.

Stephen R. Byers, Executive Vice President—Stores, Visual and Loss Prevention

        On May 2, 2011, the Company and Stephen R. Byers entered into an employment agreement effective May 1, 2011 (the "Byers Employment Agreement"). The Company elected to allow the Byers Employment Agreement to expire on April 30, 2014, and Mr. Byers executed a confidentiality, non-compete and non-solicitation agreement which allowed him to participate in the Severance Plan.


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        Pursuant to the Byers Employment Agreement, Mr. Byers received an annual base salary of $470,000. Mr. Byers's annual base salary is now determined at the discretion of the HRCC in accordance with the Company's compensation philosophy and objectives, as further detailed under "Compensation Discussion and Analysis" beginning on page 21.

        The Byers Employment Agreement provided that Mr. Byers was eligible for a bonus under the Cash Bonus Plan under the following parameters: beginning with 2012, a target bonus of 50% of base salary in effect on the last day of the fiscal year, with threshold and maximum bonuses as determined by the HRCC. The performance measures to be utilized and the weighting of these performance measures were determined by the HRCC consistent with its determinations for other senior executives under the Cash Bonus Plan. With respect to 2013,2014, the Cash Bonus Plan adjusted EBITDA and net income threshold wassales thresholds were not achieved, and, therefore, Mr. Byers did not receive any cash bonus, as is further detailed under "Performance-Based Annual Cash Incentive Compensation" beginning on page 27. Mr. Byers is also eligible to participate in plans and programs that are generally made available to the other employees of the Company. The Severance Plan does not provide the terms of annual bonus eligibility.

        The equity grants awarded to Mr. Byers are detailed on page 29.

        The Byers Employment Agreement provided that in the event of termination without cause or resignation for good reason, Mr. Byers would receive a severance payment equal to one and one-half years of his base salary and a stipend equal to the cost of COBRA premiums for medical and dental coverage for one and one-half years. The severance payment was contingent on Mr. Byers signing and not timely revoking a general release of claims. The Severance Plan provides the same severance benefits for Mr. Byers.

        Upon a "Change in Control" (as such term was defined in the Byers Employment Agreement), (1) stock options and restricted shares held by Mr. Byers would vest if Mr. Byers had been discharged without cause or resigned for good reason and (2) Mr. Byers was prohibited from resigning for good reason for a period of six months following the Change in Control. If following a Change in Control he was discharged without cause or resigned for good reason within two years of the Change in Control, Mr. Byers would have received a severance payment equal to one and one-half times his average base pay for the most recently completed three years plus one and one-half times the average bonus paid to him for the most recently completed three years or, if applicable, the "280G Permitted Payment" (as such term was defined in the Byers Employment Agreement). The Change in Control severance payment was contingent on Mr. Byers signing and not timely revoking a general release of claims. The Severance Plan provides substantially the same "Change in Control" benefits for Mr. Byers.


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        For information regarding potential severance payments and accelerated vesting of equity awards to which Mr. Byers may be entitled upon certain events and/or a Change in Control, see "Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control" on page 44.47.

        The Byers Employment Agreement contained a non-competition clause that, during Mr. Byers's employment and for a period equal to one-half of the period for which he receives severance payments after termination of his employment, prohibited Mr. Byers from engaging in or being financially interested in the retail department stores business of any competitor of the Company named in the Byers Employment Agreement. The Byers Employment Agreement also contained confidentiality provisions relating to the Company's confidential information. The Confidentiality, Non-Competition and Non-Solicitation Agreement executed by Mr. Byers as a condition of participation in the Severance Plan provides the same restrictions, except that the period of non-competition is 12 months from the date of termination.


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Luis Fernandez, Executive Vice President—Chief Omnichannel Officer

        Effective May 7, 2012, the Company and Luis Fernandez entered into an employment agreement (the "Fernandez Employment Agreement"). The Fernandez Employment Agreement provides that the term shall be from May 7, 2012 until May 6, 2015, unless terminated by either party pursuant to the terms of the Fernandez Employment Agreement.

        Pursuant to the Fernandez Employment Agreement, Mr. Fernandez shall receive a base salary at an annual rate of $370,000. This base salary is subject to review during the term of the Fernandez Employment Agreement and may be increased in the sole discretion of the Company. Mr. Fernandez's salary was increased to $400,000 in May 2013 and to $425,000 in October 2013 in recognition of his assumption of additional duties.

        The Fernandez Employment Agreement provides that Mr. Fernandez is eligible for a bonus under the Cash Bonus Plan during the term of the Fernandez Employment Agreement under the following parameters: a target bonus of 50% of base salary in effect on the last day of the fiscal year, with threshold and maximum bonuses as determined by the HRCC. The performance measures to be utilized and the weighting of these performance measures will be determined by the HRCC consistent with its determinations for other senior executives under the Cash Bonus Plan. With respect to 2013,2014, the Cash Bonus Plan adjusted EBITDA and net income threshold wassales thresholds were not achieved, and, therefore, Mr. Fernandez did not receive any cash bonus, as is further detailed under "Performance-Based Annual Cash Incentive Compensation" beginning on page 27. Mr. Fernandez is also eligible to participate in plans and programs that are generally made available to the other employees of the Company.

        Pursuant to the Fernandez Employment Agreement, Mr. Fernandez received 10,000 shares of the Company's common stock. In addition, Mr. Fernandez received a grant of 10,000 performance-based restricted shares which were subject to vesting based on achievement of Company performance goals for 2012. As the performance goals for 2012 were not attained, the restricted stock award relating to 2012 performance goals was forfeited.

        The equity grants awarded to Mr. Fernandez are detailed on pages 29-30.page 30.

        The Fernandez Employment Agreement provides that in the event of termination without cause or resignation for good reason, Mr. Fernandez will receive a severance payment equal to one year of his base salary and will receive a stipend equal to the cost of COBRA premiums for medical and dental coverage for one year. The severance payment is contingent on Mr. Fernandez signing and not timely revoking a general release of claims.

        Upon a "Change in Control" (as such term is defined in the Fernandez Employment Agreement), (1) stock options and restricted shares held by Mr. Fernandez shall vest if Mr. Fernandez is discharged without cause or resigns for good reason and (2) Mr. Fernandez is prohibited from resigning for good


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reason for a period of six months following the Change in Control. If following a Change in Control he is discharged without cause or resigns for good reason within two years of the Change in Control, Mr. Fernandez will receive a severance payment equal to one and one-half times his average base pay for the most recently completed three years plus the average bonus paid to him for the most recently completed three years or, if applicable, the "280G Permitted Payment" (as such term is defined in the Fernandez Employment Agreement). The Change in Control severance payment is contingent on Mr. Fernandez signing and not timely revoking a general release of claims.

        For information regarding potential severance payments and accelerated vesting of equity awards to which Mr. Fernandez may be entitled upon certain events and/or a Change in Control, see "Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control" on page 44.Control," below.

        The Fernandez Employment Agreement contains a non-competition clause that, during Mr. Fernandez's employment and for a period of 18 months following the termination of his


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employment, prohibits Mr. Fernandez from engaging in or being financially interested in the retail department stores business of any competitor of the Company named in the Fernandez Employment Agreement. The Fernandez Employment Agreement also contains confidentiality provisions relating to the Company's confidential information.

Keith E. Plowman, Executive Vice President—Chief Financial Officer

        Mr. Plowman does not have an employment agreement with the Company. In connection with his retirement, the Company entered into the Separation Agreement dated January 16, 2015. Under the Separation Agreement, Mr. Plowman will receive the following benefits in connection with consulting services that he will provide to the Company beginning on August 2, 2015: (1) an annual consulting fee equal to his annual base salary in effect on January 15, 2015 (Mr. Plowman's current base salary is $550,000) payable in bi-weekly installments, (2) an amount equal to the monthly premiums for insurance coverage for group medical and dental plans, (3) a bonus, if earned, for the 2015 plan year, pro-rated for the period of time prior to Mr. Plowman's retirement date, which bonus shall be paid in the spring of 2016, and (4) with respect to restricted stock currently held by Mr. Plowman, 15,000 shares of restricted stock granted on April 17, 2013 shall vest and all restrictions shall lapse on April 17, 2016 and 35,000 shares of restricted stock granted on April 15, 2014 shall vest and all restrictions shall lapse on January 29, 2017. The Separation Agreement also provides that the above payments and vesting of restricted stock will be accelerated in the event of a change in control of the Company. The above benefits are subject to Mr. Plowman's execution and non-revocation of a general release.

        The Separation Agreement provides that Mr. Plowman's consulting services shall not exceed 20% of the average level of services he performed over the 36 months preceding the Separation Agreement. It further provides that during the remainder of Mr. Plowman's employment and for a period of 18 months following Mr. Plowman's retirement date, Mr. Plowman will not be employed by or have a consulting relationship with six specified competitors of the Company.


Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change in Control

        The Company has entered into agreements and maintains plans that will require it to provide compensation to the Named Executive Officers in the event of a termination of employment or a "Change in Control" of the Company, as such term is defined in the agreements and plans. The potential amount of compensation payable to each such Named Executive Officer in each situation is set forth in the tables below. The amounts shown in the tables assume that termination of the Named Executive Officer and/or a Change in Control occurred on February 1, 2014.January 31, 2015. The actual amounts to be paid will depend on the circumstances and time of the termination or Change in Control.


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    Brendan L. Hoffman,Kathryn Bufano, President and Chief Executive Officer

Executive Benefits and Payments
Upon Termination
 For Cause
Termination
 Voluntary
Termination
Without
Good Reason
 Involuntary
Termination
Without
Cause or
Resignation
for Good
Reason(1)
 Change in
Control
Without
Termination
 Change in
Control With
Termination(2)
 Retirement Disability Death  For Cause
Termination
 Voluntary
Termination
Without
Good Reason
 Involuntary
Termination
Without
Cause or
Resignation
for Good
Reason(1)
 Change in
Control
Without
Termination
 Change in
Control With
Termination(2)
 Retirement Disability Death 

Cash Severance

   $2,000,000  $3,000,000(3)       $2,325,000  $1,350,000(3)    

Value of Accelerated

                 

Restricted Stock(4)

   8,600,000 $8,600,000 8,600,000  $8,600,000 $8,600,000 

Continuing Health and

                 

Welfare Benefits

   33,307  33,307    

Pro-rated Non-Equity Incentive Compensation (Cash Bonus)

   250,000 $250,000 250,000  $250,000 $250,000 

Value of Accelerated Restricted Stock(4)

   1,507,000 1,507,000 1,507,000  1,507,000 1,507,000 

Continuing Health and Welfare Benefits

   20,282  20,282    

Life Insurance

        2,000,000         1,800,000 
                 

Total

 $ $ $10,633,307 $8,600,000 $11,633,307 $ $8,600,000 $10,600,000  $ $ $4,102,282 $1,757,000 $3,127,282 $ $1,757,000 $3,557,000 
                 
                 

(1)
Payment requires execution of a general release.

(2)
If, within six months following a change in control, Ms. Bufano leaves the Company for any reason other than termination without cause, she may not collect any additional benefits.

(3)
Pursuant to the Bufano Employment Agreement, if the aggregate present value of the "parachute payments" determined under Section 280G exceeds three times her "base amount," as defined in Section 280G, the payouts upon a change in control shall be reduced to be less than three times her base amount. This calculation did not require such reduction.

(4)
The intrinsic value of unvested restricted stock subject to accelerated vesting, based on the closing price of the Company's common stock on the NASDAQ Stock Market on January 30, 2015 ($5.48 per share).

    Stephen R. Byers, Executive Vice President—Stores, Visual and Loss Prevention

Executive Benefits and
Payments Upon Termination
 For Cause
Termination
 Voluntary
Termination
Without Good
Reason
 Involuntary
Termination
Without Cause
or Resignation
for Good
Reason(1)
 Change in
Control
Without
Termination
 Change in
Control With
Termination(2)
 Retirement Disability Death 

Cash Severance

     $727,500   $727,500       

Value of Accelerated Restricted Stock(3)

       $484,980  484,980   $484,980 $484,980 

Continuing Health and Welfare Benefits

      20,282    20,282       

Life Insurance

                970,000 

Total

 $ $ $747,782 $484,980 $1,232,762 $ $484,980 $1,454,980 

(1)
Payment requires execution of a general release.

(2)
If, within six months following a change in control, Mr. HoffmanByers leaves the Company for any reason other than termination without cause, he may not collect any additional benefits.

(3)
The intrinsic value of unvested restricted stock subject to accelerated vesting, based on the closing price of the Company's common stock on the NASDAQ Stock Market on January 30, 2015 ($5.48 per share).

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    Luis Fernandez, Executive Vice President—Chief Omnichannel Officer

Executive Benefits and
Payments Upon Termination
 For Cause
Termination
 Voluntary
Termination
Without Good
Reason
 Involuntary
Termination
Without Cause
or Resignation
for Good
Reason(1)
 Change in
Control
Without
Termination
 Change in
Control With
Termination(2)
 Retirement Disability Death 

Cash Severance

     $425,000   $597,500(3)      

Value of Accelerated Restricted Stock(4)

       $534,300  534,300   $534,300 $534,300 

Continuing Health and Welfare Benefits

      18,296           

Life Insurance

                850,000 

Total

 $ $ $443,296 $534,300 $1,131,800 $ $534,300 $1,384,300 

(1)
Payment requires execution of a general release.

(2)
If, within six months following a change in control, Mr. Fernandez leaves the Company for any reason other than termination without cause, he may not collect any additional benefits.

(3)
Pursuant to Mr. Hoffman's employment agreement,the Fernandez Employment Agreement, if the aggregate present value of the "parachute payments" determined under Section 280G exceeds three times his "base amount," as defined in Section 280G, the payouts upon a change in control shall be reduced to be less than three times his base amount. This calculation did not require such reduction.

(4)
The intrinsic value of unvested restricted stock subject to accelerated vesting, based on the closing price of the Company's common stock on the NASDAQ Stock Market on January 31, 201430, 2015 ($10.755.48 per share).

    Stephen R. Byers,Tim Grumbacher, Chairman of the Board and Strategic Initiatives Officer

Executive Benefits
and Payments
Upon Termination
 For Cause
Termination
 Voluntary
Termination
 Involuntary
Termination
Without Cause
 Change in
Control Without
Termination
 Change in
Control With
Termination
 Retirement Disability Death 

Life Insurance

               $1,300,000 

Total

 $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $1,300,000 

    Keith E. Plowman, Executive Vice President—Stores, Visual and Loss PreventionChief Financial Officer

Executive Benefits and
Payments Upon Termination
 For Cause
Termination
 Voluntary
Termination
Without Good
Reason
 Involuntary
Termination
Without Cause
or Resignation
for Good
Reason(1)
 Change in
Control
Without
Termination
 Change in
Control With
Termination(2)
 Retirement Disability Death  For Cause
Termination
 Voluntary
Termination
 Involuntary
Termination
Without Cause(1)
 Change in
Control Without
Termination
 Change in
Control With
Termination(1)
 Retirement Disability Death 

Cash Severance

   $727,500  $998,750(3)       $1,100,000  $1,100,000(2)    

Value of Accelerated

                 

Restricted Stock(4)

    $575,125 575,125  $575,125 $575,125 

Continuing Health and

                 

Welfare Benefits

   30,652  30,652    

Value of Accelerated Restricted Stock(3)

    $852,140 852,140  $852,140 $852,140 

Continuing Health and Welfare Benefits

   37,316  37,316    

Life Insurance

        970,000         1,100,000 
                 

Total

 $ $ $758,152 $575,125 $1,604,527 $ $575,125 $1,545,125  $ $ $1,137,316 $852,140 $1,989,456 $ $852,140 $1,952,140 
                 
                 

(1)
Payment requires execution ofAssumes Mr. Plowman signs a general release.release and is not rehired by the Company.

(2)
If, within six months following a change in control, Mr. Byers leaves the Company for any reason other than termination without cause, he may not collect any additional benefits.

(3)
Pursuant to Mr. Byers's employment agreement, which expired April 30, 2014,Plowman's Separation Agreement, if the aggregate present value of the "parachute payments" determined under Section 280G exceeds three times his "base amount," as defined in Section 280G, the payouts upon a change in control shall be reduced to be less than three times his base amount. This calculation did not require such reduction.

(4)(3)
The intrinsic value of unvested restricted stock subject to accelerated vesting, based on the closing price of the Company's common stock on the NASDAQ Stock Market on January 31, 201430, 2015 ($10.755.48 per share).

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    Luis Fernandez, Executive Vice President—Chief Omnichannel Officer

Executive Benefits and
Payments Upon Termination
 For Cause
Termination
 Voluntary
Termination
Without Good
Reason
 Involuntary
Termination
Without Cause
or Resignation
for Good
Reason(1)
 Change in
Control
Without
Termination
 Change in
Control With
Termination(2)
 Retirement Disability Death 

Cash Severance

     $400,000   $577,500(3)      

Value of Accelerated

                         

Restricted Stock(4)

       $564,375  564,375   $564,375 $564,375 

Continuing Health and

                         

Welfare Benefits

      27,126           

Life Insurance

                800,000 
                  

Total

 $ $ $427,126 $564,375 $1,141,875 $ $564,375 $1,364,375 
                  
                  

(1)
Payment requires execution of a general release.

(2)
If, within six months following a change in control, Mr. Fernandez leaves the Company for any reason other than termination without cause, he may not collect any additional benefits.

(3)
Pursuant to Mr. Fernandez's employment agreement, if the aggregate present value of the "parachute payments" determined under Section 280G exceeds three times his "base amount," as defined in Section 280G, the payouts upon a change in control shall be reduced to be less than three times his base amount. This calculation did not require such reduction.

(4)
The intrinsic value of unvested restricted stock subject to accelerated vesting, based on the closing price of the Company's common stock on the NASDAQ Stock Market on January 31, 2014 ($10.75 per share).

    Tim Grumbacher, Chairman of the Board and Strategic Initiatives Officer

Executive Benefits
and Payments
Upon Termination
 For Cause
Termination
 Voluntary
Termination
 Involuntary
Termination
Without Cause
 Change in
Control Without
Termination
 Change in
Control With
Termination
 Retirement Disability Death 

Life Insurance

               $1,300,000 
                  

Total

 $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $1,300,000 
                  
                  

    Keith E. Plowman, Executive Vice President—Chief Financial Officer

Executive Benefits and
Payments Upon
Termination
 For Cause
Termination
 Voluntary
Termination
 Involuntary
Termination
Without Cause
 Change in
Control Without
Termination
 Change in
Control With
Termination
 Retirement Disability Death 

Cash Severance

     $244,615(1)  $244,615(1)      

Value of Accelerated Restricted Stock(2)

       $1,021,250(3) 1,021,250(3)  $1,021,250 $1,021,250 

Life Insurance

                1,060,000 
                  

Total

 $ $ $244,615 $1,021,250 $1,265,865 $ $1,021,250 $2,081,250 
                  
                  

(1)
Assumes Mr. Plowman signs a general release and is not rehired by the Company.

(2)
The intrinsic value of unvested restricted stock subject to accelerated vesting, based on the closing price of the Company's common stock on the NASDAQ Stock Market on January 31, 2014 ($10.75 per share).

(3)
The HRCC has discretion to fully vest the restricted stock of the Company upon a change in control. This calculation assumes the HRCC would choose to fully vest all restricted stock upon a change in control on February 1, 2014.

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Equity Compensation Plan Information

        At February 1, 2014,January 31, 2015, The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. Amended and Restated 2009 Omnibus Incentive Plan and the Amended and Restated 2000 Stock Incentive and Performance-Based Award Plan were in effect. Each of these plans has been approved by the shareholders. There were no other equity compensation plans in effect. The following information concerning these plans is as of February 1, 2014:January 31, 2015:


 Number of shares
of common stock
to be issued
upon exercise
of outstanding
options, warrants
and rights
(a)
 Weighted-average
exercise price of
outstanding options,
warrants and rights
(b)
 Number of securities
remaining available
for future
issuance under
equity compensation
plans (excluding
securities reflected
in column (a))
(c)
  Number of shares
of common stock
to be issued
upon exercise
of outstanding
options, warrants
and rights
(a)
 Weighted-average
exercise price of
outstanding options,
warrants and rights
(b)
 Number of securities
remaining available
for future
issuance under
equity compensation
plans (excluding
securities reflected
in column (a))
(c)
 

Equity compensation plans approved by security holders

              

Stock options

 280,900 $18.36 (1) 196,450 $5.17 (1)

Restricted shares

 1,577,500  (1) 825,750  (1)

Restricted stock units

 347,888  (1) 345,444  (1)
       

Subtotal

 2,206,288  2,016,773  1,367,644  2,003,824 

Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders

        
       

Total

 2,206,288  2,016,773  1,367,644  2,003,824 
       
       

(1)
The referenced plans do not allocate available shares among stock options, restricted shares or RSUs.


SECTION 16(a) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE

        Executive officers, directors and persons who own more than 10% of the Company's common stock are required to file reports of their holdings and transactions in Company stock with the SEC. To our knowledge, based solely on our review of copies of Section 16(a) forms furnished to us or upon written representations from these reporting persons that no other reports were required, all such filings in 20132014 were made in a timely manner.


RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

        The Company's Code of Ethical Standards and Business Conduct provides that no director or associate of the Company shall engage in any transactions with the Company unless approved by the Audit Committee. The Audit Committee Charter provides that the Audit Committee shall have the responsibility to review and approve all such related party transactions. All executive officers and directors are required to disclose any possible related party transaction in which such executive officer or director may participate and each such transaction must be approved by the Audit Committee.

        The Company leases its Oil City, Pennsylvania store from the estate of Nancy T. Grumbacher, Trustee of the 2002 Indenture of Trust of M. Thomas Grumbacher, pursuant to a lease entered into on January 1, 1981. The Oil City lease terminates on July 31, 2021, and the Company has two five-year renewal options. The rental payments during 20132014 under this lease were $223,500. The aggregate amount of all payments due under the terms of the lease at the beginning of 20142015 through the remainder of the current term, which includes a lease renewal determined to be reasonably assured, is


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approximately $1,676,250.$1,452,750. The late Ms. Grumbacher was the wife of Tim Grumbacher, Chairman of the Board and Strategic Initiatives Officer.

        Michael L.Mr. Gleim a non-employee director, received a $50,000 supplemental retirement benefit during 20132014 from the Company which was paid pursuant to the terms of an employment agreement with Mr. Gleim with respect to his employment as Vice Chairman of the Company from 1995 to 2002.

        Mr. Sherman is President of The Echo Design Group, Inc., which in 20132014 supplied certain products to the Company. Payments for purchases by the Company in 20132014 totaled $336,047.$459,926.


SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS

        Shareholder proposals for the 20152016 Annual Meeting of Shareholders must be received by the Company by January 7, 20156, 2016 in order to be considered at the meeting and included in the Company's proxy statement and form of proxy relating to that meeting.

        If notice of any proposal with respect to a matter to be addressed at the 20152016 Annual Meeting of Shareholders is received by the Company after March 17, 2015,16, 2016, the proposals with respect to such matter shall be deemed "untimely" for purposes of Rule 14a-4(c) under the Securities Exchange Act and, therefore, the Company will have the right to exercise discretionary voting authority with respect to such proposal.


HOUSEHOLDING OF PROXY MATERIALS

        SEC regulations permit the Company to send a single set of proxy materials, which includes this proxy statement, the Annual Report to Shareholders and the Notice of Internet Availability of Proxy Materials, to two or more shareholders that share the same address. Each shareholder will continue to receive his or her own separate proxy card. Upon written or oral request, the Company will promptly deliver a separate set of proxy materials to a shareholder at a shared address that only received a single set of proxy materials for this year. If a shareholder would prefer to receive his or her own copy, please contact Mary Kerr,Kim George, Divisional Vice President—Investor Relations, by telephone at (717) 757-7660, by U.S. mail at 2801 East Market Street, Building E, York, Pennsylvania 17402 or by e-mail at ir@bonton.com. Similarly, if a shareholder would like to receive his or her own set of the Company's proxy materials in future years or if a shareholder shares an address with another shareholder and both would like to receive only a single set of the Company's proxy materials in future years, please contact Ms. Kerr.George.


THIS PROXY CARD IS VALID ONLY WHEN SIGNED AND DATED.TO VOTE, MARK BLOCKS BELOW IN BLUE OR BLACK INK AS FOLLOWS: KEEP THIS PORTION FOR YOUR RECORDS DETACH AND RETURN THIS PORTION ONLY TO VOTE, MARK BLOCKS BELOW IN BLUE OR BLACK INK AS FOLLOWS:THIS PROXY CARD IS VALID ONLY WHEN SIGNED AND DATED. Date Signature (Joint Owners) Date Signature [PLEASE SIGN WITHIN BOX] Date Date To withhold authority to vote for any individual nominee(s), mark “For All Except” and write the number(s) of the nominee(s) on the line below. 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0000210940_1 R1.0.0.51160 For Withhold For All All All Except The Board of Directors recommends you vote FOR the following: 1. Election of Directors Nominees 01 Lucinda M. Baier 02 Philip M. Browne 03 Michael L. Gleim 04 Tim Grumbacher 05 Brendan L. Hoffman 06 Todd C. McCarty 07 Jeffrey B. Sherman 08 Steven B. Silverstein The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. c/o Proxy Services PO Box 9142 Farmingdale, NY 11735 VOTE BY INTERNET - www.proxyvote.com Use the Internet to transmit your voting instructions and for electronic delivery of information up until 11:59 P.M. Eastern Time on June 16, 2014.15, 2015. Have your proxy card in hand when you access the web site and follow the instructions to obtain your records and to create an electronic voting instruction form. ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF FUTURE PROXY MATERIALS If you would like to reduce the costs incurred by The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. in mailing proxy materials, you can consent to receiving all future proxy statements, proxy cards and annual reports electronically via e-mail or the Internet. To sign up for electronic delivery, please follow the instructions above to vote using the Internet and, when prompted, indicate that you agree to receive or access proxy materials electronically in future years. VOTE BY PHONE - 1-800-690-6903 Use any touch-tone telephone to transmit your voting instructions up until 11:59 P.M. Eastern Time on June 16, 2014.15, 2015. Have your proxy card in hand when you call and then follow the instructions. VOTE BY MAIL Mark, sign and date your proxy card and return it in the postage-paid envelope we have provided or return it to Vote Processing, c/o Broadridge, 51 Mercedes Way, Edgewood, NY 11717. THE BON-TON STORES, INC. C/O PROXY SERVICES P.O. BOX 9142 FARMINGDALE, NY 11735 M92896-P62040 To withhold authority to vote for any individual nominee(s), mark “For All Except” and write the number(s) of the nominee(s) on the line below. THE BON-TON STORES, INC. For All Except Withhold All For All The Board of Directors recommends you vote FOR proposals 2. and 3the following: ! ! ! 1. Election of Directors Nominees: 01) Lucinda M. Baier 02) Philip M. Browne 03) Kathryn Bufano 04) Michael L. Gleim 05) Tim Grumbacher 06) Todd C. McCarty 07) Daniel T. Motulsky 08) Jeffrey B. Sherman 09) Steven B. Silverstein The Board of Directors recommends you vote FOR the following proposals: For Against Abstain ! ! ! 2. To approve, on an advisory basis, the compensation of the named executive officersNamed Executive Officers of the Company, as disclosed in the Proxy Statement; ! ! ! 3. To ratify the appointment of KPMG LLP as independent registered public accounting firm for 2014;2015; and NOTE: Such other business as may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment thereof. Yes No ! ! Please indicate if you plan to attend this meeting. Please sign exactly as your name(s) appear(s) hereon. When signing as attorney, executor, administrator, or other fiduciary, please give full title as such. Joint owners should each sign personally. All holders must sign. If a corporation or partnership, please sign in full corporate or partnership name by authorized officer. Yes No Please indicate if you plan to attend this meeting..

 


0000210940_2 R1.0.0.51160 Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Annual Meeting: The Notice &and Proxy Statement and Annual Report/10-K Wrap is/are available at www.proxyvote.com .www.proxyvote.com. M92897-P62040 THE BON-TON STORES, INC. THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS June 17, 201416, 2015 The shareholder hereby appoints Brendan L. HoffmanKathryn Bufano and Keith E. Plowman,J. Gregory Yawman, or either of them, as proxies, each with the power to appoint hisa substitute, and hereby authorizes them to represent and to vote, as designated on the reverse side of this ballot, all of the shares of Common Stock of The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. that the shareholder is entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time on June 17, 2014,16, 2015, at Bon-Ton's Corporate Office, 2801 E. Market Street, York, PA 17402, and any adjournment or postponement thereof. THIS PROXY, WHEN PROPERLY EXECUTED, WILL BE VOTED AS DIRECTED BY THE SHAREHOLDER. IF NO SUCH DIRECTIONS ARE MADE, THIS PROXY WILL BE VOTED FOR'FOR' THE ELECTION OF THE NOMINEES FOR THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS AND FOR THE'FOR' PROPOSALS 2 AND 3 LISTED ON THE REVERSE SIDE. PLEASE MARK, SIGN, DATE AND RETURN THIS PROXY CARD PROMPTLY USING THE ENCLOSED REPLY ENVELOPE. Continued and to be signed on reverse side