Total speculation but, having grown up shopping at Berger-Phillips in B'ham, wonder if there is a connection with the name Phillipson and the shortening to Phillips. Also, the Cohen being probably German or Jewish or both, as were the owners of many of the fine stores in Birmingham from the late 1800's thru the mid 1900's and even later.Perhaps a check with the Chamber of Commerce or public library would help trace the business. I remember Berger Phillips being off 19th or 20th St. N. on about 2nd to 4th Ave. Caroline in Prattville, AL