Comments on: Department stores on the upswing: two approaches to change management and brand architecture

By: Nick Bergren

Nick Bergren — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 01:39:38 +0000

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By: artme

artme — Thu, 23 Nov 2006 21:41:16 +0000

The department stores can switch the different specialty brand-store "modules" to keep the mix fresh. But not without costs. There has to be some consistency as well, customers don't like to discover too many changes, or fair-weather friends either. It's not that easy, because the department store is selling their identity as being one who is solid enough to trust in the market, a guide. To change every moment something isn't fresh is more like junk-bond finances, to keep the analogy. And who said product brands in their stand-alone units, don't the ability to evolve in the same way, that is, change certain "modules" within their system and merchandise, shift atitudes, team up with cross-promotions, and so on.
I don't think the posting gets close to explaining how the many Hechts and other name-department stores now all fall into one big Macy/Bloomingdales. But it was interesting.

By: Jim

Jim — Tue, 21 Nov 2006 15:50:31 +0000

I think we would all agree that some retailers have turned the corner and others have more than a long way to go.

I see even the successful retailers as being the brand that is never the hottest; but can always bring the hottest to consumers, and never have to burn their wings. After all, in the spirit of Plenitude, a brand can only be the hottest by changing to the new bulls eye, something few, if any, have ever done.

Retailers are asking for a different trust than product brands or narrow retailers; trust me to get you what you want or need, and I'll even let you tell me what it is.

By: ayesha

ayesha — Mon, 20 Nov 2006 22:46:39 +0000

I'd agree with Tom. I think dept stores have really pulled their act together – they've had to – but they do have a ways to go especially in the customer service dept. I was at Bloomingdale's in NYC this past weekend and it was a complete mob scene which can be a turnoff for some, but the screeching 20-somethings seemed to be loving it.

By: jens

jens — Sat, 18 Nov 2006 12:29:47 +0000

editor's essay on the same topic in today's ft 'how to spend it' supplement (no link – only on paper)

By: Tom Guarriello

Tom Guarriello — Fri, 17 Nov 2006 19:11:26 +0000

I'll hold out just a wee bit longer before declaring the department store revived. Been in one lately? Still have pretty far to go, if you ask me.

By: Hilarie

Hilarie — Fri, 17 Nov 2006 17:07:48 +0000

JC Penney has also done a remarkable job in updating and creating great products. With women's fashions in particular, they have created a mix of classic and updated styles. I have purchased roughly 90%+ of my work and casual wardrobes from them for at least the past 6 years. No one else comes close to offering what JC Penney does. And they have developed strong brands – St. John's Bay (casual), Worthington/east5th (work), a.n.a. (updated work and casual). I'm looking forward to JC Penney's continued success and development!