We welcome thoughtful comments and respectful opinions that help make the case for the restoration of Marshall Field's to State Street and elsewhere. Off-topic, obviously incorrect, disrespectful or abusive posts will removed at the host's discretion, although an attempt will be made to contact the author, assuming a valid email address is provided with the post. The ethos is conversational--corrections are welcomed. Differing or opposing views are welcome and such posts should respect that this is a blog for opinions of Field's supporters. Due to problems with spam attacks--some even from those opposed to our cause--during certain periods, posts are moderated. As a result, it may take up to seven days for your post to appear, but usually it will take less than a day, and sometimes even immediately. Thank you for your patience, support, and written contributions.




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Below are blog posts from April 30, 2008 back to January 1, 2008.

Please click to return to our most recent posts.

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Click to access posts even further back, prior to January 1, 2008.






Date: Wed, April 30, 2008  11:40 pm, CT
Posted by: L. Grand

I just read with a mixture of disgust and amusement the Tribune article about Macy's sending in another New Yorker to, in effect, persist in trying to convince Chicagoans and other Midwesterners that Macy's is "a good thing." You have GOT to be kidding me!

I actually laughed when I read the paragraph about the guy putting on a Cubs hat; like that would convince us of M's "love" for Chicago and perhaps persuade us of the "comeraderie" that can be so easily had by donning a ballcap? GIVE ME A BREAK! HA HA HA! This brings the kind of laughter that would be disingenuous if not accompanied by much head shaking and eye rolling!

No offense to Larry, Moe and Curly; but I think we've found the fourth STOOGE: Lundgren! Even more hilarious though is that this comedy is his reality, not a comical act for entertainment purposes.

Localization is much simpler than all of the confusing "strategies" macy's has tried in vain to make work. I'll try to simplify it for anyone at Macy's (or better yet A REAL BUSINESS MAN WHOSE ARRIVAL WE AWAIT):

1. Change all signage to MARSHALL FIELD'S and use lovely script lettering.

2. Change all major color scheme to GREEN and get rid of the red altogether.

3. Change all displays to QUALITY, NAME-BRAND MERCHANDISE and take the rest of Alfani, INC, Style & Co., Tasso Elba, etc. to Goodwill. They'll probably sell for $2-$5 no problem, and you can take the charitable deduction at tax time.

4. Ban all starshapes. We've come to loathe them.

5. Retain all of the traditions of Field's and give credit for them where credit is due: Marshall Field & Company.

6. Bring back all of the excellent services, products and extras that Marshall Field's was known for.

Simpler put: START OVER. GO BACK TO THE DRAWING BOARD. IF YOU NEED AN ADVISORY COMMITTEE, JUST READ. WE'VE CONTINUED TO REITERATE WHAT WE WANT. FIELD'S FANS HAVE GIVEN MORE FREE ADVICE THAN ANY OTHER ENTITY I KNOW. IT'S JUST. THAT. SIMPLE.

Much respect for my fellow Field's Fans and for any businessman or woman out there who dares and cares to GIVE THE LADIES AND GENTLEMEN WHAT THEY WANT,

L. Grand, Grand Rapids, MI


Date: Wed, April 30, 2008  10:33 pm, CT
Posted by: Mike M

This new guy being brought in by Macy's is probably planning a one-year stay here, knowing that his job is impossible and doomed to failure.

Get it, Macy's leadership? Chicagoans will NEVER accept Macy's. Your shareholders will eventually wise up. After all, your squandering of shareholder value borders on the criminal.

Oh, and we will never, never let up on the boycott. Our families and friends will simply shop elsewhere until Marshall Field's is returned!


Date: Wed, April 30, 2008  10:19 pm, CT
Posted by: SB

More and more articles online reference the Field's to Macy's horror story when talking about Wrigley / Mars. Chicago has made its voice heard over the last two years and even journalists at Reuters are continuing to notice. Macy's has done too much damage in Chicago/Minneapolis and the Midwest in general... it will never succeed. It has too much negative brand history.

Date: Wed, April 30, 2008  10:11 pm, CT
Posted by: Jon C.

Here is one more example showing how Marshall Field & Company is held in the highest esteem as a Chicago landmark icon and macy's is not.

The daily syndicated program WHEEL OF FORTUNE is currently showing programs over a three-week period that were earlier taped in Chicago.

The CHICAGO themed shows have contestants from the Chicagoland area. At the beginning of each show and during two other breaks, flashes of easily-recognizable Chicago landmarks are shown in keeping with the theme. Whereas the previous years' Chicago shows prominently showed the Marshall Field & Company plaque and famous clock in the flash sequences, nothing is shown of macy's State Street. Even the producers of Wheel of Fortune realize that macy's is New York and macy's does not represent any local, cultural iconic feeling of "Chicago".


Date: Wed, April 30, 2008  10:00 pm, CT
Posted by: Daniel W. Harcourt II

Attention Fieldsfans who are also Macy's shareholders: send a clear message by voting your shareholder's proxy vote and mailing it on time.

As is typical at shareholder meetings, the first order of business is the Election of Directors. Number Five(5)on the list is none other than Terry J Lundgren himself. It is whithin shareholder rights to single out and exclude individuals up for election. On my proxy, I have marked the third box under the 'For All Except' heading and listed Terry J Lundgren on the line to the right of the box. If he wants to take away my Marshall Fields, I'll take away my vote for him to be my Board of Directors.

Daniel W. Harcourt II
Schaumburg, IL


Date: Wed, April 30, 2008  7:12 pm, CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels

Ladies and gentlemen, may I present the understatment of the year:

"The department store (Macy's) chain's push to create a national brand has been stymied for more than a year as consumers have been slow to warm to converted Macy's stores." (Chicago Tribune, April 30). Note to the wacky folks at Macy's: It's not the economy or the weather or an early Easter, we're just not shopping at your store.

And now, for your reading pleasure, Macy's latest dumb business move: "Mike Dervos, 57, was named senior vice president and regional director for the Chicago, Minneapolis and Detroit regions where Macy's operates 63 stores." (Chicago Tribune, April 30) Gee, I guess the people at the Minneapolis-based office (mostly Field's veterans) don't understand midwest consumers like a wacky Macy's guy from New York. Hey Mike, please send more Inc. fashions our way!

Another example of Macy's great training programs: "The reorganization is nearly complete. District vice presidents under the new structure have already been through 2 1/2 days of training. (Chicago Tribune, April 30) Wow, I wonder if they took time for lunch.

Don't be fooled kids. Macy's is still doing centralized buying. These new folks will help decide if Northbrook gets more red Style and Company dresses or if Woodfield gets "long" sizes for the Donald Trump suit selection. It is the same overpriced, poorly made merchadise.

My Macy's? NEVER. My Field's forever!

I almost forgot: Bye bye Frank Guzzetta, 62, former Macy's North chairman. I guess you...along with nearly 10,000 other former May employees...got the boot from Macy's. I hear Kohl's is hiring. Thanks for posing for the pic at our rally last September. You looked great in that suit. I bet it wasn't a "Trump."


Date: Wed, April 30, 2008  7:03 pm, CT
Posted by: Gail

You can find the darnedest things on Ebay. I just bought a Marshall Field & Co. stock certificate owned by Violet Selfridge--the daughter of the original Marshall Field's right-hand man Harry Gordon Selfridge, who went on to found Selfridge's in London. Selfridge was considered to be a great retail showman; he brought the excitement to Marshall Field's while Field himself brought the attention to quality and service. By the way, Selfridge also wrote a book called "The Romance of Commerce," which includes chapters on various merchants throughout history. One of the chapters is about a George Heriot--a distant ancestor of mine. One way or another, everything is connected ....

Date: Wed, April 30, 2008  6:02 pm, CT
Posted by: L. Grand

It's a small world, isn't it? I had just 20 buttons left (out of one hundred Gail sent to me) and I wanted to give them the most mileage possible. I grabbed them, along with leaflets and pushpins and headed out to post them on bulletin boards in each foyer of a very large apartment complex. I had previously left a button on one particular building's bulletin board and had to replace it twice, so I figured I'd hit 10 bulletin boards with 2 buttons and one leaflet each.

As I was leaving one building, with my small Marshall Field's green bag in hand, I saw a girl walking her dog. I said HI and asked her what kind of dog she had. She told me, and then when she saw my MF bag she asked me if I was the one who had put the Marshall Field's buttons on the bulletin board. I said Yes, and she proceeded to tell me that she had grown up in Chicago and was extremely miffed at what Macy's had done. I encouraged her to check out this website and post a comment about exactly how she felt, and also to spread the word to friends or family members who might be interested.

She said that her extended family ON BOTH SIDES were VERY unhappy about Marshall Field's being gone. So I told her to REALLY let them know about the website! As she mentioned memories, I felt it was very important to point out that we Field's Fans are not merely lamenting the loss of Field's, but that we are actively working to bring it back!

Because I didn't even cover 1/4 of the campus of the apartment complex, I will surely need more buttons. This complex just so happens to be on the wealthier end of Grand Rapids where - you guessed it - the only Hudson's to Marshall Field's (now Macy's) store was. It's the perfect place to get the word out!

Very Marshall Fieldingly Yours,

L. Grand, Grand Rapids, MI


Date: Wed, April 30, 2008  12:15 pm, CT
Posted by: LiMack

It is fortunate I had just swallowed my mouthful of coffee before I read in the Tribune Wednesday morning about the new guy who's going to come to town to turn it around for Macy's in Chicago.

I immediately visualized a Saturday Night Live sketch in which the famous Jon Lovitz character would raise his eyebrows and say something like, "Why of course, let's localize the stores where they hate us by bringing in a Macy's veteran from New York!! Yeah, that's the ticket".


Date: Wed, April 30, 2008  6:23 am, CT
Posted by: gle

Here's the latest from Macy's for the former Marshall Field's stores. There is a "Tribune" article about the New York transplant who is now becoming the senior vice president and regional director of former Marshall Field's stores that are now part of Messy's East (which includes Chicago).

"Macy's vet to oversee region, New post will tackle former Field's stores:"

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-wed-macys-regional-chief-apr30,0,3577279.story

They might try to tackle the stores, but they won't succeed in knocking them over--or us!

Letters ito the Editor go to 'ctc-TribLetter@tribune.com' and 'smjones@tribune.com' You can also leave comments at a topix forum that follows the article--but remember that Letters to the Editor have the greatest impact.


Date: Tues, April 29, 2008  8:19 pm, CT
Posted by: JasonM

Went to a party this week and brought a gift from non-Macy's. The host said "Thank you. Great to know this is not from Macy's."

I give Macy's State Street, Vernon Hills, Northbrook Court... two years max! They'll be gone before we know it. Hopefully someone will buy the trademarks to MF in the bankruptcy courts and Bring Back Field's!


Date: Tues, April 29, 2008  6:12 pm, CT
Posted by: T.

I was born in Chicago, and even tho' I live in California now, I have never forgotten the Marshall Field's I experienced as a child. Through the years, I have remained loyal, returning for a visit, every time I was in Chicago, and shopping from catalog and online, other times. I was devestated at the whole Macy's nightmare, and still am.

Date: Tues, April 29, 2008  4:33 pm, CT
Posted by: L.G.

My family is from Chicago and it sickens me to know Macy's is the seller of Frango.

Date: Tues, April 29, 2008  1:08 pm, CT
Posted by: Brian

I just found out that Raspberry & Hazelnut Frangos will be discontinued. This does not affect Seattle Raspberry Flavors.

These are long tested flavors, that have remained popular for years, however, Due to Macy's screw ups, the traffic simply isn't there.


Date: Tues, April 29, 2008  8:13 am, CT
Posted by: Steve

I was born and raised in Chicago, and LOVED Marshall Fields. It killed me when it changed to Macy's. Now living in the Seattle area, where we lost our Bon Marche to Macy's

Date: Mon, April 28, 2008  9:46 pm, CT
Posted by: Field Fan 123

The Wrigley buyout is unfortunate but a lot of the articles mention the loss of Field's. There is definitely an awareness of the anger by Chicagoans.

Date: Mon, April 28, 2008  11:40 am, CT
Posted by: Linda Simons

This is off-topic, but I wanted to congratulate our own Gail, the largest benefactor of bumper stickers and buttons, on having a (non-Field's-related) opinion piece published in today's Wall Street Journal. Way to go, Gail!


Date: Mon, April 28, 2008  8:34 am, CT
Posted by: gle

Messy's still thinks it can win with the stars. This is from the "Tribune:"

"Macy's turns to celebrities to try to boost sales"

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/yourmoney/sns-yourmoney-0427leckey,0,2432150.story
As Jim noted below, the column is followed by a place to add comments to the Topix forum and you are also encouraged to write Mr. Lecky at yourmoney@tribune.co m as well as the Chicago Tribune "Letters to the Editor" at ctc-letter@tribune.com

Date: Sun, April 27, 2008  4:10 pm, CT
Posted by: delia

While Bloomingdale's was looked upon as a peer of Marshall Field's, this Irish newspaper notes that Macy's isn't in the same class as Bloomingdale's.

http://www.independent.ie/travel/travel-destinations/why-nyc-has-always-been-my-central-perk-1360579.html

Date: Sat, April 26, 2008  10:39 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Andrew Lecky's column in tomorrow's Sunday Chicago Tribune Business section has a bit on Macy's and its stock.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/yourmoney/sns-yourmoney-0427leckey,1,5549139.story

The column is followed by a place to add comments to the Topix forum and you are also encouraged to write Mr. Lecky at yourmoney@tribune.com as well as the Chicago Tribune "Letters to the Editor" at ctc-letter@tribune.com


Date: Sat, April 26, 2008  3:38 pm, CT
Posted by: LiMack

"Macy's Localization Strategy". What a truly pathetic joke. Any attempts to "localize" Macy's at this point are just rubbing more salt in the wound that Terry Lundgren opened when he killed off the beloved, already "local" stores across the nation. There is only one "localization strategy" that will succeed for Terry in Chicago, and that is when he sells 111 N. State Street to someone who will operate it, traditionally and respectfully, as it deserves to be----as Marshall Field's.

Date: Sat, April 26, 2008  9:40 am, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Several sundry comments. * In addition to the comments by several of you here on this blog, even Tribune columnist Rick Kogan noted that it looked pretty lame for Macy's to slap a banner over the green former Marshall Field's trucks to rebrand them. Today I saw that Macy's is now using different trucks that are white. I'm not sure if this represents a change in delivery services but unlike with Field's, these don't appear to be direct employees of Macy's.

* Meanwhile, yesterday, I had a large shipment of office supplies delivered to my work place in what was formerly a Marshall Field's delivery truck. It was still the same green color and if you looked at it at the correct angle, you could still see some outlines from the Field's logo on the truck. It was surreal that I would see both of these trucks just a day apart.

* I went by the former Pulaski and Diversey warehouse. Appeared completely empty. There was a sign directing outlet store shoppers to its new location at Fox Valley which is close to Carson's outlet. Otherwise desolate.

* Was at a Joe Jackson concert at The Vic Thursday night and people kept coming up to me and asking how to get a "Forever Marshall Field's" button and expressing their disgust at the replacement of Field's by Macy's.

* Got a haircut a few days ago--again, the stylists all lamented the loss of Field's. As one of the former Field's shoppers put it, "It's easy to boycott Macy's because, unlike Field's, they have nothing I want to buy."


Date: Fri, April 25, 2008  10:27 pm, CT
Posted by: Joyce W.

I have not stepped foot in the State Street store since the Macy's conversion. Marshall Field's was Chicago. Changing Field's to Macy's was a slap in the face to all Chicagoans. The Marshall Field's name meant quality. That appers to be long gone at Macy's. The salespeople who would make it their business to let you know when new inventory arrived, and went out of their way for you is a thing of the past. They will not get another penny from me.

Date: Fri, April 25, 2008  9:50 pm, CT
Posted by: L. Grand

Two new posts on my website!

By great fortune, I located the commercial for Marshall Field's 2005 Glamorama in Minneapolis! It's WOW!

I've also posted a major portion of material from a Marshall Field's "New Team Member Orientation" packet, along with a photo of the folder the materials came in. Much more to post, so I'll try to let you know about new posts as they happen.

http://www.matchlessmarshallfields.blogspot.com

Regards to all,

L. Grand


Date: Fri, April 25, 2008  7:56 pm, CT
Posted by: Marcus

I was watching a Macy's ad and it said, "Pay $5 and get a $20 shopping pass" and "Buy a reusable tote for $3 and 1 dollar will go to..."

Yeah, I can see, former Marshall Field's customers (no offense) will get Macy's totes. NOT! =)


Date: Fri, April 25, 2008  3:50 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Earlier this week, we noted an article at thedeal.com that talked about the latest at Macy's. We also noted that there was a place to comment.

http://www.thedeal.com/corporatedealmaker/2008/04/two_years_into_may_deal_macys .php

Well, your comments were noticed. Today appeared a follow-up article acknowledging this blog. Check it out--and be certain to leave a comment. "When people hate your deal"

http://www.thedeal.com/corporatedealmaker/2008/04/when_people_hate_your_deal.php


Date: Thurs, April 24, 2008  12:50 pm, CT
Posted by: Laura Burnes

Found a new Marshall Field article.

www.chicagopostcardmuseum.org

see The Postcard Fanatic blog.

L.B.


Date: Thurs, April 24, 2008  11:18 am, CT
Posted by: Jeff S.

Checked out the Frango chocolates that are being dumped at clearance because no one is buying them at the Joliet store. First off, the air-conditioning is not working in the store -- so you have to wonder how well the Frangos are keeping in the box. In looking at the expiration date on the hazlenut Frangos--they all expired this past January!! Way to Flop!

Date: Thurs, April 24, 2008  9:09 am, CT
Posted by: gle

From the "Tribune" stock quotes:

Messy's will host a May 14 conference call re: its first quarter earnings.

http://markets.chicagotribune.com/custom/tribune-interactive/html-story.asp?symb=M&siteid=chicagotribune&guid={DA06E9FA-6015-4310-82B0-A1A9312C54A6}

Date: Wed, April 23, 2008  10:24 pm, CT
Posted by: Ailish Finnerty

I cherish my 50+year Marshall Fields credit card: nice shade of green.

Date: Wed, April 23, 2008  9:56 pm, CT
Posted by: Pat C

Macy's, Inc., Annual General Meeting,

May 16, 2008, at 11:00 Eastern Daylight.

Location: West Seventh Street, Cincinnati, OH 45202, United States.

Agenda: To elect eleven members of Macy's board of directors; to ratify the appointment of KPMG LLP as the company's independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending January 31, 2009; and to act upon such other business as may properly come before the annual meeting or any postponements or adjournments thereof.

Please add to your Agenda:

1)Restore the Marshall Field's Stores to the Midwest + all Vendors & Employee's.

2)Remove Terry Lundgren from CEO & Chairman of the Board position, and elect a New CEO who will "Bring Marshall Fields Back" to the people. Just give the people what we want!

3) Discuss Why the Re-Branding is NOT WORKING

4) Discuss "Why Macy's Stocks" are in the Toilet.

HINT: Fire the person or persons who are responsible for this one

and his name is.... TERRY LUNDGREN


Date: Wed, April 23, 2008  9:30 pm, CT
Posted by: Mark Weiser Russell

I miss Field's more than you can imagine. Let's bring the place back...and soon. The time is ripe to start small and there have to be investors out there....

Date: Wed, April 23, 2008  5:19 pm, CT
Posted by: delia

The MinnPost.com has a column with the following today:

"Clearly, we are not Omaha because we have ... Dayton's, though it's Macy's now (arguably a fate worse than demolition)."

Wow!

http://www.minnpost.com/community_voices/2008/04/23/1598/lets_get_past_our_not-being-omaha_syndrome


Date: Wed, April 23, 2008  5:13 pm, CT
Posted by: gle

I don't see our local papers ("Tribune" and "Sun-Times") showing much interest in the "Wall Street Journal" article about Lundgren's plans to become more local. I'm going to write them if I don't see anything by tomorrow.

One thing I did notice is that Messy's has cloth recycle bags with a pale GREEN star in the center instead of red. At least all Messy's publicity about the environment is forcing them to honor the color GREEN--whether they like it or not!


Date: Wed, April 23, 2008  2:49 pm, CT
Posted by: Susan P

Marshall Fields is a icon, and always has been. Macys needs to give back Marshall Fields to Downtown Chicago, what would happen if Macy's bought out Harrod's in London? Traditions are becoming faint memories and this is just not a good move on Macy's. It might sound good on paper but it is not good to the public and it exposes Macy's for a greedy corporation that does not provide good service more often than not. Bring Marshall Field's back and do it soon or perhaps someone will be closing Macy's stores and being replaced by another cheap-rated store that thinks they are superior but not, Macy's and the 98cents stores are in the same league--at least with the 98cents stores they are not trying to put on aires.

Thank you.


Date: Wed, April 23, 2008  1:55 pm, CT
Posted by: James Miller

I think it's only right that "My Macy's" refers to Mr. Lundgren, since he has paid for that out of his own personal salary reduction. There is yet another price paid for his oversight.

How much more will Mr. Lundgren be willing to give up for the sandcastle he continues to construct? My guess is that payment has not yet been fully made.


Date: Tues, April 22, 2008  9:43 pm, CT
Posted by: JasonM

I actually learned about the Magnin's wanting to purchase the rights here on FieldsFans. I looked on Yahoo! and Google and didn't find a link but I found some great articles about the storied and venerable I. Magnin. Not surprisingly the store was closed by Federated/Macy's... the biggest culprit to ruining American retailing coast-to-coast.

http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9F02EFDD1131F93AA25752C1A962958260

Quote:

Federated apparently rejected an 11th-hour $40 million bid for the entire chain from Jerry A. Magnin, whose great-grandmother founded the flagship store in San Francisco in 1876. That store is one of the nine to be sold.

Federated contends it can generate higher proceeds by liquidating Magnin's inventory and selling the sites -- which are either in hard-to-obtain downtown locations or high-end malls -- than by selling the ailing chain intact, Mr. Magnin said in an interview.

Another link:

http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/chronicle/archive/2006/12/31/LVGNAN6AG11.DTL

"Alan" also referenced it in his post on April 25, 2007 about a Sun-Times article that no longer seems to be accessible at suntimes.com.


Date: Tues, April 22, 2008  7:20 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Yesterday's Wall Street Journal Article about Macy's "Localization" strategy is, as predicted, being republishing in different places in print and web. Many of these re-prints feature the opportunity to leave comments. Fans of Marshall Field's can help bring The Grande Dame back by leaving comments in the places provided by these articles and also writing the editors of the newspapers in which the articles appear.

Please check out these articles and submit your responses:

Arlington Heights - The Daily Herald:
http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=176725
(You need a login to comment)

Tribune-owned Baltimore Sun:
http://www.baltimoresun.com/business/bal-bz.macy22apr22001518,0,5861313.story
(Topix Discussion similar to a number of Tribune articles)

Tacoma News Tribune:
http://blogs.thenewstribune.com/business/2008/04/21/macy_s_stores_to_tailor_merchandise_to_l
(You can leave comments)

MediaBuyerPlanner:
http://www.mediabuyerplanner.com/2008/04/22/macys-adopts-localized-strategy/


Date: Tues, April 22, 2008  6:27 pm, CT
Posted by: Field's Fan

There's a pro-Field's letter published in Crain's Chicago Business! Here is the version that appears in the April 21 issue:

Second-rate street

I found the "State Street starts over" pullout section in Crain's 30th anniversary special to be most interesting, and quite funny when it stated "the area remains a retail mecca, dominated by chains like Old Navy, H&M and Nordstrom Rack."

Retail mecca? The area has gone from a world-class destination for shopping to a bargain basement. Sadly, State Street no longer has Carson's or Marshall Field's, and Macy's just doesn't cut it.

With Macy's dropping Field's and forcing the "Magic of Macy's" on us, what we have is a lot more than a name change. Ask any shopper who misses the service, selection, style and quality that was Marshall Fields's.


Date: Tues, April 22, 2008  3:23 pm, CT
Posted by: Delia

This past Sunday's New York Times Style Section advertises an event to be held this evening at Macy's Herald Square. They are hosting a panel discussion led by Citi's Smith Barney Finacial Advisor Bruce Kahn where one can "learn about socially responsible investing". Citi, of course, is involved with Macy's and Bloomingdale's credit card business.

I'm all for socially responsible investing, but I have to say I feel some irony or cynicism when a company such as Macy's does something so socially irresponsible--killing off the major cultural icon that was Chicago's Marshall Field's.

Also, it was good to see green in a department store ad in the Tribune this past weekend, even if it was simply Macy's hyping their green initiatives. Just think: Marshall Field's was green for as long as anyone can remember.

Speaking of green, what happened to the green roof that was to be installed on top of the State Street store? Remember that a green roof was to be installed as a condition for adding 6' X 30' Macy's signs on two sides of 111 N State. Now they can't even seem to keep their escalators and elevators going. Thankfully the two signs have never materialized. Surely they were at least smart enough to catch on that adding those two signs would only repel the customers they have lost.


Date: Tues, April 22, 2008  12:46 am, CT
Posted by: Alex K

To JasonM.

Where did you read about the Magnin family trying to revive the store? I didn't know there were any of them still around. The family had sold the store to Bullock's in the 1940s. I had heard that it was because there was no one left in the family to run the store.


Date: Mon, April 21, 2008  10:35 pm, CT
Posted by: JasonM

I walk down Lincoln Park, Lakeview, the Gold Coast, River North, etc. and I see a lot of empty retail stores. I went into the Chicago Place mall on Michigan Ave the other day and there were NO STORES there besides on the first floor (someone should email Carson's, Lord & Taylor, or Von Maur to open up there)... anyway the point is with the state of the economy and the horrible thing Macy's has done to Chicago, I don't see it being around much longer. Lake Forest and the Warehouse were the first to go. I suspect other stores to follow soon. You just can't keep bleeding cash.

* One thing I did notice was that the Northbrook Court directional signs now say "Macy's" instead of "Marshall Field's." I'm not sure if that means Macy's is there to stay or what but I was betting that this would be one of the first to close because it is empty!

Comment from Jim:
Many retailers, including the ones you have mentioned plus Best Buy and others have already looked at or have been rumored to look at locating in Chicago Place Mall. Vertical malls are very difficult to lease because of their lack of street visibility and sidewalk traffic. Water Tower Place is one of the more successful, and of course Marshall Field's played a part in that. Sandra Jone's column in this past week's Tribune announced that Forever 21 will open another store in Water Tower Place in addition to their new flagship in the former Virgin Megastore on Mich igan Ave. Forever 21 will take over space in the former Lord and Taylor, on the floors above where American Girl will relocate.


Date: Mon, April 21, 2008  10:03 pm, CT
Posted by: Beth W

When I went into work (a library) today, I noticed that most of us had on black (pants, sweaters, shirts) by coincidence. When I mentioned that we looked like macy's employees, one of the women chimed in with "sorry, we can't help you!"

And the feeling spreads throughout the Chicagoland area.

Beth


Date: Mon, April 21, 2008  9:41 pm, CT
Posted by: John D

Field's Fans not having paid subscription authorization for the Wall Street Journal article on macy's that Jim McKay referred to, may access it through this link:

http://www.wsbt.com/news/consumer/17976994.html

As usual, the final paragraph includes the sentence we have read many, many times previously---

"A macy's spokesman declined to comment on current performance of the former Field's stores".

We, of course, can logically reason that the financial performance is poor. If the performance figures were good that macy's spokesman would be bragging about the precise sales figures in one press release after another!


Date: Mon, April 21, 2008  5:42 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Today's Wall Street Journal has another interview with Terry Lundgren about Macy's latest strategy christened "My Macy's".

Entitled, "Reversing Field, Macy's Goes Local", the Wall Street Journal article features some discussion of Field's, with much focus on State Street and even some comments from Linda Piepho.

The article can be read online at the following URL--you may need to be a WSJ subscriber to read it.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120873643128029889.html?mod=2_1567_topbox

Additionally, there is another similar article, perhaps inspired by the WSJ piece at

http://www.thedeal.com/corporatedealmaker/2008/04/two_years_into_may_deal_macys.php

This item gives the opportunity to leave comments. Please read it and express why Field's needs to return in quality and spirit as well as name.

Wall Street Journal articles such as today's often end up being syndicated or otherwise reprinted at other web sites. If you see the same article at another URL, especially if it has a place to leave reader comments, please let us know. And please write the editors or all such publications.

Macy's has dropped the monthly reporting of sales to reduce media attention. Please make the most of any coverage--overt coverage or even omitted coverage--by writing the editors of all web, TV, radio, newspaper and other media outlets.

Jim


Date: Sun, April 20, 2008  6:59 pm, CT
Posted by: drew

According to this article, the CEO of General Electric may face an angry crowd during an upcoming shareholders' meeting because of declining profits and other problems:

http://biz.yahoo.com/ap/080420/general_electric_shareholders.html

Despite facing similar issues with their business, "those wacky folks at macy*s" rewarded their CEO with a contract extension. While the GE shareholders are upset about loss of value, macy*mart shareho lders are evidently pleased that their values have dropped 50 percent within one year.


Date: Sun, April 20, 2008  4:42 pm, CT
Posted by: Darrid

Just an FYI to all about Frango

Raspberry and Hazelnut Frangos are being discontinued.


Date: Sat, April 19, 2008  1:03 pm, CT
Posted by: JasonM

It is one of those things... you know somehow, somewhere Marshall Field's will be back... you just don't know when. I truly feel this. A brand as revered as Field's is bound to be back.

Look at I. Magnin. Even after more than a dozen years the Magnin family tried to bring it back but couldn't because Macy's Inc. owned the trademark.


Date: Fri, April 18, 2008  7:58 pm, CT
Posted by: drew

To L. Grand: Congratulations on your awesome blogspot. The topics and images are a fitting tribute to the unique qualitites of Marshall Field's.

In a way, I was deeply saddened as I viewed your blogspot. Not just a department store, but a cultural icon, was taken from the American scene. The beautiful facility, the clever advertising, and other amenities have been degraded to a bland, forgettable, boring waste of time. How sad that future generations will never experience something other than a generic cookie-cutter excuse for a department store.


Date: Fri, April 18, 2008  7:30 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

I was in the area yesterday so decided to make a couple laps around the Woodfield store that used to be Marshall Field's. I had heard some varying comments and reviews about the store being remodeled. It's been three months since I last have been in one of these stores--save for sticking my head in the State Street store to get a glimpse of the flower show.

Everyone has different ways of expressing their outrage and passion about the loss of Field's and it's what keeps us going. For me, I don't get so caught up in too many details -- I'm willing to overlook a broken door handle, even if it's for a week or so, provided that the overall experience seems worthwhile. And I totally understand the remodel is a work in progress.

I was shopping for casual pants, jeans and shirt so I thought I would check Macy's. I didn't plan to buy but I did plan to compare with what I might buy at Sears, JCPenney, Lord and Taylor or Nordstrom, Carson's or Target.

It was a pretty slow night throughout Woodfield. Maybe Macy's had a few less customers but it was pretty slow everywhere.

Some of you like to observe the parking lot as an indicator of how Macy's business was doing. I didn't get a good sense of that, although it did appear that the sign offering additional parking for Macy's customers in the garage was gone. As someone noted, there is a Starbucks now off the main lower level entrance. It even has an outside entrance so you can run in Starbucks without going in the former Field's store. I'm not so sure people are going to run there just for coffee. It will be interesting.

Because of a few comments expressing the potential for some positive change at the Woodfield store, I was expecting improvement--heck, maybe they'd get some of this right.

After I went in the store, I was disappointed. I was expecting more, after a couple of emails I have received, I really was. I'm certainly willing to overlook the temporary partitions and certainly I'm willing to "pardon the dust" and see the potential of what could be there as Macy's remodels the Woodfield store. That aside, the store left me with a generic department store feeling at best.

As perhaps has been noted, mens wear has been brought downstairs to the area near the north first level entrance and the ladies wear that was there has been brought upstairs. I'm not sure if jewelry and cosmetics are moving. It seemed like they were staying put. Based on Lundgren's past discussions of the different types of female shoppers (each having a name), I surmise the idea is to have the mens wear located such that guys can get in and out (since they usually don't like to shop and browse as much), while placing the ladies wear upstairs draws more women through the store. I don't know. I don't think I like to enter the store at the grand outdoor entrance and be immediately greeted by men's suits. Although, I do have to say, I like it better than when I enter Penney's lower level mall entrance where you get smacked with a bunch of beds with dowdy bedding. The whole Macy's store all seemed pretty generic. The Woodfield store is a bit less schizophrenic than it was when I experienced last year when it felt like a Macy's jammed into a Field's. Perhaps it's the reduction in forest green-colored carpet. It doesn't feel as much like Field's--but it doesn't feel as much like any specific store. It felt a bit like Macy's or Carson's or Dillard's or...

I also noticed a collection of new signage that seemed like an attempt at something a little nicer that the directionals I see being placed in other Macy's outside the Chicago area. The signs seem to be inspired by the directional pylons at the State Street store that were convereted from the days as Field's flagship. The one pylon I encountered looked similar to State Street but not as detailed and looked less expensive to make. There were also similarly inspired black square signage mounted on the store's columns as well as numerals and arrows. Clearly they are still working on how to mount these as some were falling off the columns. In all, the signage seemed like an attempt to be a bit in step with the signs as State Street as well as be a cut above other Macy's. But in the end, it still looked kinda cheap and generic.

The forest green carpet and walls Field's had were very classy. With the Macy's remodeling, there are too many bright red-painted walls.

I also took a lap through the basement. The former Marketplace looked less changed than I expected although it was completely dead. I was disappointed to see such an huge emphasis on candy other than Frangos.

As for buying casual pants, jeans and shirt, I ended up getting them at JCPenney. I did check out the other stores, including Macy's--not that I planned to buy anything at Macy's. I thought the private label shirt and jeans I purchased at Penney's was of similar quality to the Club Room, Charter Club and Tasso Elba clothing I checked out at Macy's, but JCPenney was almost half the price. However, the real bottom line--and I think it would hold true for all of us Field's Fans--was that the clothes I purchased at JCP and those I saw at Macy's didn't match the value (quality for the money) that I would have purchased at Marshall Field's. Field's version of Fieldgear is what I really wanted.

As I said, I can overlook and see beyond the construction that is still underway. At the same time, I didn't experience anything that made me think this was or was going to be anything more than a generic department store. Moreover, the prices and selection weren't anything that would make me want to make a special trip, let alone love the store like Field's.

Jim


Date: Fri, April 18, 2008  8:36 pm, CT
Posted by: Brad

As a reminder to other FieldsFans remember that the Sun-Times now provides for reader comments on their website.

I just read an article about Hartmarx's new business direction, written by Sandra Guy, as pointed out yesterday (see below in yesterday's posts for links).

" ** Macy's department store is no longer one of Hartmarx's biggest retail clients. Macy's has put a greater emphasis than did Marshall Field's on selling its own clothing brands."

I'm glad to see that Ms Guy and the Sun-Times are pointing out what they didn't in the March 31 article. I would suspect that what some of you wrote made a difference. Until the discussion here and in the Sun-Times in the past few weeks, I didn't realize that Field's and May Department Stores was once one of Hartmarx's biggest retail clients. It would be most accurate and informative if it actually stated that Macy's actions to eliminate and replace Marshall Field's contributed significantly to the decline in Hartmarx sales to former Marshall Field's stores. At the same time, by making the point that Macy's places "greater emphasis than did Marshall Field's on selling its own clothing brands," Ms. Guy is at least starting to acknowledge the change unlike her March 31 article on Hartmarx.


Date: Fri, April 18, 2008  8:36 pm, CT
Posted by: drew

Get ready for another "exciting" innovation at the Red Star Store:

http://biz.yahoo.com/ap/080417/macy_s_product.html?.v=1

The NOW environmentally conscious, progressive, "green" department store will begin using paper shopping bags! One of the MANY complaints about the Red Star was their use of cheap plastic shopping bags. "Those wacky folks at macy*s" have only taken about two years (and many complaints) to realize that customers prefer paper shopping bags!

Watch the Red Star come out with an advertising campaign in which they praise themselves for protecting the environment.


Date: Thurs, April 17, 2008  8:36 pm, CT
Posted by: L. Grand

The "The Fight For Field's" slideshow is UP AND RUNNING! Due to a glitch in my website's program, it is smaller than desired, but still very effective IMHO. I hope you like it! For the fullest impact, turn your speakers on....

http://www.matchlessmarshallfields.blogspot.com

Very Marshall Fieldingly Yours,

L. Grand

Grand Rapids, Michigan


Date: Thurs, April 17, 2008  4:10 pm, CT
Posted by: shari ehara

Hello:

I like everyone else have truly great memories of going to Marshall Fields as a child while growing up in Chicago. The first store I every remember being in was Field's in downtown Chicago for Christmas shopping with my mom.

I'm looking for specifically a cake receipe that used to be sold in their bakeries.

They were the white "Fancy Cakes" which were really just a small white cake with a white fondant icing and a sweet and salty filling. I'm trying to re-create the cake but haven't been able to so far.

If anyone who perhaps worked there would be able to steer me in the right direction I would be very appreciative. Also if by chance the receipe appears in one of their cookbooks, could someone just let me know which book to buy?

Thanks to everyone for your help.


Date: Thurs, April 17, 2008  2:26 pm, CT
Posted by: Field's Fan

A Field's fan comment appears in today's Voice of the People, Online Exclusives in the "Tribune"--please be sure to check this out and leave your own comments. Thank you!

"Macy's 'junk' staus"

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/letters/chi-080417macys_briefs,0,7689954.story

Date: Thurs, April 17, 2008  8:47 am, CT
Posted by: John D.

Jim Wright's posting about Mr. Keith Dorsett, longtime Dayton's/Marshall Field's sales associate, opening a fine men's apparel store across the street from macy's Minneapolis, illustrates a good strong point about macy's degrading the quality of merchandise and quality of guest service.

We learned that Mr. Frank Guzzetta, retired President of macy's North, has made purchases at Mr. Dorsett's shop. Obviously, Mr. Guzzetta realizes that macy's does not carry the fine merchandise lines befitting his tastes either, so he has gone elsewhere for the upscale merchandise previously carried by Dayton's and Marshall Field's.


Date: Thurs, April 17, 2008  7:45 am, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Today's Chicago Sun-Times has another article on Hart Schaffner Marx (aka Hartmarx), the Chicago-area based suit maker that made so many suits sold at Marshall Field's but was dropped for the most part by Macy's. I know some of you wrote to the Sun-Times in follow up to their story on March 31, especially because the story failed to mention that the locally based company lost so much business when Field's was converted to Macy's. This one mentions the loss of Field's business.

The online version of today's article is at http://www.suntimes.com/business/898429,heartmark041608.article and, in case you missed it, the March 31 article is at http://www.suntimes.com/business/868864,CST-FIN-hart31.article

As always, it's helpful to register your comments with the Sun-Times so they know it's an issue that still concerns you. Email letters@suntimes.com and sguy@suntimes.com

Jim


Date: Wed, April 16, 2008  10:54 pm, CT
Posted by: L. Grand

Hey, Fellow Field's Fans!

I just wanted you to know that I've posted a new blog on my MF website this evening after quite a long time since last posting. There has been so much going on the last few months that I hadn't had time to work on the website, though I have tons of material to work with. I've also been working very hard on another slide show, tentatively titled, "The Fight To Bring Back Marshall Field's." Unfortunately I'm not quite done, but I hope to have that posted by tomorrow evening. I think you'll like it!

I've also changed the format of my page somewhat. Previously, I had the same post on the "top page" but now I will be placing the most recent posts there. I hope you'll check it out at your leisure.

http://www.matchlessmarshallfields.blogspot.com

While it is certainly "we knew this would happen" as far as Macy's faltering goes, we must continue to keep the call going out to the business community to come to our rescue and restore our beloved Marshall Field's stores!

Just a sidenote: while getting my hair done at JC Penney Hair Salon at Rivertown Crossings Mall here in Grandville, Michigan, my husband killed time by checking out the foot traffic at Macy's. (Yes - he did spend another two dollars buying me Marshall Field's Peppermints). He said the store was still a ghost town atmosphere; one customer on the top floor (men's and home goods) and maybe 4 or 5 total on the ground floor, including himself, and about 4 of those 5 customers were in the very nice deli. He also said that in addition to the extremely sparse foot traffic, the employees looked like they were completely lost - like they didn't know what to do with themselves. I feel sorry for the employees actually, but we all know that they would be happy and lively if the store were still Marshall Field's.

While in Ann Arbor today, I got into conversation with a couple about Marshall Field's and FieldsFansChicago.org. I try to carry several buttons in my pocket whenever I go out. The lady took one for herself and a friend, and the gentleman not only took one - he let me put it on his sweater!

Let's keep this fight alive!

Very Marshall Fieldingly Yours,

L. Grand, Grand Rapids, Michigan


Date: Wed, April 16, 2008  9:27 pm, CT
Posted by: Rich W

How appropriate messy's rating has been dropped to almost junk bond status. It matches their merchandise perfectly- JUNK. Actually, isn't that one of their premiere in house brands- J-U-N-K? Sadly, I was in Woodfield today and strolled thru the red star store. A lot of noisy, messy construction. But the alarming lack of customers caused my co-worker and I to "echo" whenever we conversed! And I noticed Nordstrom, MUCH busier than messy's, is expanding their restaurant in contrast to what messy's has done with theirs.

Date: Wed, April 16, 2008  7:40 pm, CT
Posted by: B

Well-- I have to tell you -- I let jimmygimbels go to redstar so I dont have to-- however

I recently DID enter the redstar and evaluated the mens suits-- I looked them over very seriously and inspected them as though I were going to buy one -- Alfani was what you would expect, I was surprised to see that the suits "by" "The Donald" were essentially the same in quality --

and ALL VERY poor

appauling given the ticketed price --I DO NOT know if they were on sale -- I did not care because I had no real intention of buying one I just wanted to see how they were made-----they ARE NOT of the quality of the Best offered by Stafford brand in JC Penney -- I OWN some of those suits and I can speak to that--- they are fairly on par with the lesser suits at JCP. I also own really fine suits -- from Field's, Nordstrom, and a couple from Saks and one Neiman Marcus. They can not compare to those suits, of course, in any way. The exclusive "Tasso Elba" suits, to be fair, have decent material but are also not very well made and not worth the money-- you can get a better suit on sale at Nordstrom for a better price.

But the red star knows what I want and what I must buy -- I just have to let them train me more -- yeah right --

Take care all

Thanks

B

the real B --italbearr@yahoo.com


Date: Wed, April 16, 2008  4:01 pm, CT
Posted by: gle

Since the weather was so nice, I had to go check up on State and Randolph. Most of the pedestrians were still on the other side of the street even though EVERYBODY was out today. American flags are back on the State Street side (above the tacky floral plastic awnings). The flags look a little wrinkled like someone folded them in pleats while they were down. Pardon our appearance signs adorn most of the windows again. The Chevy ads are down, but there is an underwear display in one Randolph window (I think the one that had the oatmeal for Valentine's Day). I shudder to think of what freak show tactics are planned for the other windows.

Meanwhile, the Marshall Field's clock seems to be gaining popularity in art and sourvenir-type shops. At Accent Chicago, 150 N. Michigan, the clock is on several postcards and Chicago souvenir items. A kids coloring book shows a horse carriage going under the Field's clock. While there is no specific name on the store, the picture is titled "the historic clock." I did not see ANYTHING that mentioned Messy's.


Date: Wed, April 16, 2008  11:12 am, CT
Posted by: gle

From the stock quotes section of the "Sun-Times"

(enter the M symbol to get Messy's, then select NEWS RELEASES)

"Ahead of the Bell: Macy's falls pre-market after downgrade"

Associated Press article

http://suntimes.stockgroup.com/snapshot_newsrelease.asp?page=snap_newsrelease.asp&page2=shownewsrelease&oldpage2=suntimes_NEWSRELEASE_HEADLINE&ticker=M&storyid=10588370&newspage=suntimes_NEWSRELEASE_HEADLINE&crumb=14&lang=EN&attribution=Associated

Date: Wed, April 16, 2008  11:10 am, CT
Posted by: drew

Another article on the JP Morgan downgrading states that the consolidation of regional divisions will be more problematic than anticipated:

http://www.reuters.com/article/marketsNews/idINN1634570920080416?rpc=44

The original decision to consolidate all the regional nameplates into macy*mart was a dismal failure, as evidenced by decreased sales and downgraded share values. But consolidating the operating divisions will somehow be a success? Yeah, okay...

Perhaps "those wacky folks at macy*s" have been spending too much time sniffing their "exclusive" Donald Trump cologne!


Date: Wed, April 16, 2008  11:03 am, CT
Posted by: drew

What an "exciting" week for "those wacky folks at macy*s"--following a downgrade by Fitch, analysts for JP Morgan have also announced a downgrade:

http://biz.yahoo.com/ap/080416/macy_s_ahead_of_the_bell.html?.v=1

This article notes that Red Star shares have lost HALF their value in one year. How fortunate that the shareholders have chosen to extend Lunkhead's contract so that he can continue his visionary plans.


Date: Tues, April 15, 2008  8:45 pm, CT
Posted by: tzahnen

Lundgren had watch is back if he thinks that Carl Icahn is going to save him. He was the guy who pushed Marshall Field & Company into the arms of BATUS in 1982. BATUS sold field's to DH in 1990 when they were the target of another green mailer (Sir Jimmy Goldsmith). Dayton's/Target were wonderful parents for both the store and associate.

Thank God that I retired with 49.5 years of service before Macy's ruined the place.


Date: Tues, April 15, 2008  7:23 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Regarding the Tribune's short section on the downgrading of Macy's bonds--as well as a similar story which I understand ran in the "Sun-Times PM" edition yesterday:

It will be helpful to the cause to write letters to the editor in regards to the Tribune and Sun-Times stories. Adding to the Topix forums that often follow a Tribune article on line is helpful b ut the letters to the editors that wield more influence with the editorial board. Even if your letter is not printed, they know people are still hot on this topic when they get letters.

These suggestions are made for responding to media articles or TV news segments:

* If submitting by US Mail, make a photocopy of your letter.
* If submitting by the internet, send your "Letter to the Editor" in a standard email message. Do not use web page forms or blog sites for the newspapers, unless you absolutely have to. If you s ubmit via email, you have the opportunity to cc: or bcc: a copy to yourself--submitting via other methods on the internet means you probably won't have a dated copy of your response, if you get a copy at all. It is very important that you keep a copy for your records.
* The Letters to the Sun-Times should be sent to: letters@suntimes.com
* The Letters to the Tribune should be sent to: ctc-TribLetter@tribune.com
* Please remember to include a daytime phone number for verification purposes.
* Be certain to indicate in your letter that it is "for publication."
* Remember, items submitted to the "letters to the editor" section should not be cross-posted to other forums like the fieldsfanschicago.org blog. The publications request exclusivity.
* Be succinct as possible. Longer items don't have as much of a chance of being published. While there are many facets to the loss of Field's, consider focusing on just one or two facets that wi ll best help the larger cause.
* Just to emphasize, even if your letter does not get published in print or web media, remember that the media takes note of the public's pulse. Every letter reminds editors and producers that this is still indeed a very important issue.


In respect and admiration for all you do to bring back Field's.

Jim


Date: Tues, April 15, 2008  7:03 pm, CT
Posted by: Zelda

The Chicago Tribune also has the story about Macy's stock being downgraded to just above junk bond status. What a great headline: "Fitch Downgrades Macy's to Near Junk." This fills me with great joy, because it brings us one step closer to our ultimate goal - the restoration of our great lost treasure, Marshall Field's.

Our boycott has legs, and is self-sustaining. The macy's suits thought they could do without the business of the loyal Field's Fans, but it appears they haven't really done very well for themselves. And if they walked through 111 N. State Street five days a week like I do and saw what I see (crumbling, dirty floors, those sad fur coats they can't even give away, show windows filled with area rugs of all things, and some foot traffic but few macy's bags, they wouldn't be at all surprised.

There may be a recession, but I'm still spending money on clothes, furniture, china, cookware, gifts -- and none of it at the big department store across the street. These days I go to Nordstrom, Crate & Barrel, Lord & Taylor, and a wonderful boutique in Oak Park called Takara. But I still miss Field's and continue to envision the day of its return.


Date: Tues, April 15, 2008  5:52 pm, CT
Posted by: denise rule

more billboards!! now there is another C.D. Peacock one on the NORTHBOUND side of I294, just south of the O'Hare oasis (about 3/4 to 1 mi. south of). same as the one on the southbound side: big bust of Marshall Field saying: Marsahll Field shopped here and then C.D. Peacock's, etc. i drive this at least every other day and just noticed it today, so must be fairly new. just not going away....

Date: Tues, April 15, 2008  4:05 pm, CT
Posted by: Joe D

I was walking down Michigan Ave during my lunch break and I heard a mother say to one of her daughters, "We can just get her jeans at Kohls."

I can't help but think about how many parents in the past would have said, "Field's!" and now people in Chicago are saying "Kohl's!"

Has anyone else seen the giant insects greeting you at the Water Tower store?


Date: Tues, April 15, 2008  8:26 am, CT
Posted by: gle

from today's "Tribune:"

"Fitch downgrades Macy's to near junk"

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-tue-brf-4-macys-fitch-downgrapr15,0,4315377.story

Date: Tues, April 15, 2008  12:01 am, CT
Posted by: Jim Wright

Here is yet one example of the fine quality of sales associate that macy's dismissed in its large staff cuts of senior employees at macy's North stores in Chicago, Minneapolis and Detroit.

Mr. Keith Dorsett, was a longtime top-notch sales associate in the Men's Tailored suit department at Dayton's, Marshall Field's and then at macy's in Minneapolis. Naturally with when macy's got rid of the top names in men's designer suits, what remained were Alfani and the Donald Trump brands. Macy's did not feel that Mr. Dorsett, who for years catered to top business executives and professional athletes, should be retained in their plans.

So, Mr. Dorsett went into business on his own, and opened a fine men's apparel store, which James has previously mentioned. He is doing extremely well, offering the famous Dayton's and Marshall Field's level of personal service and fine merchandise selection, across the street from...macy's of Minneapolis!

http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/style/17101236.html

Date: Mon, April 14, 2008  9:36 pm, CT
Posted by: drew

How ironic that macy*mart's bond ratings have dropped to "'near junk' status"--what does that say about Macy's?

http://biz.yahoo.com/ap/080414/macy_s_fitch_ratings.html?.v=1

Perhaps Lundgren "those wacky folks at macy*s" can entice more "exciting" celebrities to offer their "exclusive" wares at the Red Star Store. Churning out more coupons will certainlly be a sure-fire success to increase customer traffic. The clever advertisements are sure to engage shopper's interest.

I look for some major shake-ups in the months ahead.


Date: Mon, April 14, 2008  4:22 pm, CT
Posted by: Danielle G & GW

Fitch downgrades Macy's to BBB- from BBB

"Fitch Ratings on Monday downgraded the ratings on department-store operator Macy's Inc. to "BBB-" from "BBB," noting a deterioration in the company's operating and credit metrics.

A rating of "BBB-" is one notch above junk status.

Fitch also revised the outlook on the ratings to stable from negative.

Fitch said it expects further deterioration of the company's operating and credit metrics in the near to intermediate term given the challenging retail operating environment that will likely pressure same-store sales.

More of the AP story is at:

http://www.businessweek.com/ap/financialnews/D901O8PG1.htm

http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/fitch-downgrades-macys-idr-bbb-/story.aspx?guid=%7BFB3205F2%2D62BE%2D4062%2D969A%2D82EAADF31FC4%7D&dist=TQP_Mod_pressN


Date: Mon, April 14, 2008  7:22 am, CT
Posted by: Jeff

Pages C1 and C2 of today's Wall Street Journal has a story about the credit crunch. It mentions how it has reduced the chances of an LBO of Macy's such as the ones that were rumored last Summer.

Date: Sun, April 13, 2008  11:22 pm, CT
Posted by: James in MInneapolis

Today's Star Tribune had a picture and short article stating that Frank Guzzetta's loft condo in the Downtown Warehouse District was for sale, for $1 million plus. If anyone is interested, let me know....I wil forward the realtor's name and number.

Regards.


Date: Sun, April 13, 2008  11:05 pm, CT
Posted by: Brenda

I was just watching "190 North" on Channel 7. They did a story about a movie that is being shot in Chicago. It's a different one other than the Dillinger movie with Johnny Depp that is also being shot in Chicago. It's a contemporary comedy being shot entirely in Chicago. They interviewed one of the stars and he insisted on calling it "the Walnut Room in Marshall Field's". I was glad to hear that because it's another example of why it will be "Forever Marshall Field's".

Date: Sun, April 13, 2008  4:24 pm, CT
Posted by: Brian

I love the suggestion of carrying the MF bag everywhere.

I actually use my mesh bag for everything when I go shopping. The Von Maur bags have a striking resemblance to Field's bags as far as layout. My partner actually thought I went shopping at Thrift stores snagging more MF bags, hangers & Field gear clothing until he got a closer look at the bags.


Date: Sun, April 13, 2008  1:29 am, CT
Posted by: Steve Roth

I'm a 30 guy who's originally from the NW burbs of Chicago, now living in Kansas City, MO. Like just about everyone else here, Fields became part of the Christmas tradition as I was growing up. My mom would take me Downtown a couple of days before Christmas every year; it was just what we did. We'd stop and look at the windows, have lunch, and wait in line for 2 or more hours to see Santa at the Cozy Cloud Cottage. Christmastime for me meant a trip to Fields, and it's a shame it has been taken away. Bring back Fields!

Date: Sat, April 12, 2008  8:08 pm, CT
Posted by: John

I was at TJ Maxx on Broadway and Diversey today. I couldn't believe how much Alfani menswear they had, especially shirts and ties. I never saaw Field's private label goods there. Alfani seems like it isn't selling at all. They should get a clue at Macy's. We want Marshall Field's.

Date: Sat, April 12, 2008  7:23 am, CT
Posted by: Sharon

The South Bend Tribune had a column yesterday about the remodel at the Mishawaka Macy's at University Park Mall.

http://www.southbendtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080411/Biz/804110469/1197/Biz

You may recall that this mall had both an L.S. Ayres and a Hudson's that became a Marshall Field's. The former Hudson's/Field's was torn down to be replaced with a lifestyle center while the L.S. Ayres was turned into Macy's.

The reporter writes about the larger fitting rooms that will be added as well as the new decor but asks, "Will it be enough?" The loss of Field's is discussed and the readers are asked to blog as to what they think Macy's needs. Some think Macy's is an improvement in some ways over L.S. Ayres, but most all express how they miss Field's for a number of reasons such as class, quality, service and of course the State Street store. Take a look at the comments.

http://www.southbendtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080411/BLOGS06/891148892/-1/blogsarchive

Date: Fri, April 11, 2008  8:26 pm, CT
Posted by: Mary VanderHayden

Thanks to the poster who noted the page about Circuit City's issues. There are more than one comparison to Macy's problems at that page.

Date: Fri, April 11, 2008  4:29 pm, CT
Posted by: Taylor

Today's Wall Street Journal has an article about retailers and their house brands. Comments from Macy's Karen Houget are included as they have a substantial amount of house brand sales. The gist of the story is that when stores have agreements with the likes of Martha Stewart, Donald Trump or--in the case of other stores--Jacklyn Smith, etc., the stores still accountable to these name brand onwers for a certain level of sales royalties even if the stores don't meet those levels. The article holds the position that having exclusive house brands also means budget conscious shoppers can't comparison shop these exclusive brands in these tighter times, so that hurts sales. Macy's counterred that their house and exclusive brands were doing better in many areas than the other brands that can be bought at multiple retailers.

Date: Fri, April 11, 2008  4:18 pm, CT
Posted by: John K

Macy's has paid WBBM 780 AM to air what seems like dozens of spots promoting a big mens professional wear sale.

Sometimes these commericals are repeated just a few minutes apart and the music they play is like some awful 1980s game show or something. It's horrible! If they are trying to attract a youthful audience, this is not the music. It conjures up images of much older men past their prime and mauve carpeting and matching laminate at the check outs. You know what? The music reminds me of Donald Trump and his hair! The TV Commmercials are similar but at least the visuals aren't as dated as the music.

Macy's: No Way To Shop!


Date: Fri, April 11, 2008  12:23 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim

Today the media is heavy with stores March sales figures. Beginning with this month, Macy's joins the likes of Sears and CVS by not offering such stats. As I understand it, Macy's will still issue quarterly stats. Clearly, if sales were incredibly great, they'd find a way to report them every week. Instead, just the opposite is happening.

As a side note, Bon-Ton, parent of Carson's has stopped breaking out separate sales stats for Bon-Ton/Elder Beerman and Carson's/Herberger's/Bergner's/Boston Store/Younker's. They noted a 4.9% decrease in total sales for the five weeks making up March 2008 versus March 2007. Note that last month they showed a decrease of 3.6% but broke it into -6.5% for Bon-Ton/E-B and -1.6% for Carson's et al. Bon-Ton says they have stopped because after two years, they think the Carson's/Bon-Ton integration is complete. It's interesting that Macy's, under similar circumstances of completing the May and Field's "integration" stopped reporting such stats.


Date: Fri, April 11, 2008  9:27 pm, CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels

Do some folks at CNN feel the same way we do about Macy's? Today, they are running a story about how high gas prices and unemployment are causing shopprs to hold tight to their wallets. Business is down across the board. The reporter then talks about the two bright spots: Walmart and Costco.

Do they show video of Walmart? NO!

Do they show video of Costco? NO!

CNN Headline News shows video of Macy's. You can clearly see the Macy's signage in the stores. To top it off they show the exterior of a Macy's store with the signage if full view. HA. HA. How ironic that that show Macy's when talking about "discount retailers." But then, so many contributors to this site have compared Macy's to Walmart.

Yes, all retailers are feeling the pinch these days. Rumors are flying the Circuit City and Linens and Things are about to go under. Even Nordstrom and Von Maur are seeing slowing sales. BUT, their slip in sales is nothing like those wacky folks at Macy's are experiencing. We all know the stores would be doing better business as Marshall Field's. To all the Marshall Field's sales associates, buyers, merchandisers, and company staff: we miss you and want you back.

Not one penney spent at Macy's...EVER!


Date: Thurs, April 10, 2008  6:29 pm, CT
Posted by: John N

Does anyone else HATE the awnings on the formerly grand State Street Marshall Fields? I'm referring to the flower show themed awnings.

Promoting Spring by making your store look tacky? Great idea.

Sigh. Where's the green of Spring--and the classic green of Marshall Field's?


Date: Thurs, April 10, 2008  11:42 am, CT
Posted by: Matt

Watched Top Chef-Chicago on Bravo last night. Great event held in the most beautiful departnment store ever. Until I saw the Walnut Room, or should I correct myself, what's left of the Walnut Room. REVOLTING is the word that comes to mind. But I did enjoy immensely when the Australian chef refered the locaation as "the OLD MARSHALL FIELD STORE!!" Bye bye Macy's.

Date: Thurs, April 10, 2008  9:40 am, CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels

Three cheers to the production company of Bravo network's "TOP CHEF." This weeks episode took place in the kitchen and Walnut Room at "Marshall Field's" (mentioned several times). Macy's was never mentioned. HA HA!

Macy's sure is getting promotional. Right now those wacky folks have a Spring clearance, a women's shoe sale and and men's department sale and "event" (whatever that means) - all avertised on TV. I guess the exciting merchandise and Macy's magic isn't enough to get people in the doors. Remember the "good old days" when Macy's claimed they would do very little advertising becuase the exciting merchandise would attract people? Shoppers have moved on to other stores with quality, selection, service and style. The only group Macy's has left are people that only shop sales.


Date: Thurs, April 10, 2008  9:35 am, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

I checked out the page about Circuit City that drew suggested below. I was really surprised at how many of the reader comments could have easily replaced "Circuit City" with "Macy's" and it still would have rung true.

Date: Thurs, April 10, 2008  9:08 am, CT
Posted by: drew

This article about the possible collapse of Circuit City draws many similarities to what is happening at the Red Star Store. Poor business decisions--especially the dismissal of qualified, experienced employees and their replacement with disinterested high school kids==were made for short term profitibility rather than long term stability.

http://blogs.moneycentral.msn.com/topstocks/archive/2008/04/09/is-the-circuit-city-death-watch-on.aspx

The reader comments about Circuit City are very similar to posts on this blog. Perhaps "those wacky folks at macy*s" will soon be evaluated in a similar msn.com commentary about their destruction of America's department stores.


Date: Wed, April 9, 2008  10:09 pm, CT
Posted by: B

Hi All

Recently had the opportunity to attend a dinner party in Pennsylvania.--Pittsburgh area. During the evening, stores came up as a topic. This is a fairly stylish bunch and there were many recountings and general agreement on the poor offerings of the red star store as well as the poor service. Most were in agreement that although in terms of over-all offerings-- Kaufmann's was fairly on par with red star however when it came to service as well as prices Kaufmann's was winner hands down -- most remarked on the incredible prices red star marked on their goods and the general quality was NOT as good as Kaufmann's. The men all seemed to really miss the "Brandini" label that the May Company offered in all its' regular nameplates. Some of the women agreed that they missed Valerie Stevens.

All of them ridiculed the decision to do away with Field's. I did not even bring Field's up - they brought it up by themselves.

They all remarked that the loss of Field's was incredible, stupid, unimagineable, sad, and costly to Chicago. Several of the wives noted that they would accompany their husbands at times to Chicago to shop-- specifically AT Marshall Field's---- and ship back to Pittsburgh but that that was ALL over. Trips to Chicago now were to shop Nordstrom at Northbridge and Neiman Marcus (michigan ave,) and stores other than Macy's-- they also All lamented the loss of Lord and Taylor at Water Tower.

One woman noted how, for several years she and a couple friends had gone to Chicago for Glamorama but that ceased in 2005.

it was very difficult to remain quiet but overall, for the most part,-- it was totally in line with our point of view!! I have to admit, it was satisfying to hear their conversation, and I did remain quiet.

Some of the people also noted that Boscov's was ok --"their selection isn't the best but it is as good as red star" was general agreement. Other's said they didn't like it -- Others agreed that they couldn't believe how good JCPenney had become and that with the loss of Kaufmann's -- JCPenney was first to turn to locally. It seems a lot of people in Pittsburgh who have the means, leave town to shop.

well ---- Take care all ---

Thanks

B

the real B --italbearr@yahoo.com


Date: Wed, April 9, 2008  9:58 pm, CT
Posted by: John D.

Here's an idea to help spread the word about our boycott against macy's and bloomingdale's:

A friend who regularly travels on business in the U.S. and internationally, carries her dark green Marshall Field's in airports, hotels, train stations and office buildings on her business trips to spread our goals to bring back Field's. She tells of people constantly approaching her saying something like: "Wow, is Marshall Field's back in business?? Thank goodness, Field's is back! Tell me where!" or words to that effect.

On one occasion she was boarding an airliner in New York City bound for Minneapolis, her new home. She said that as she walked row-by-row to her seat, she was continually being beseiged by questions as to where the passengers could find Field's. They obviously were elated at the sight of her bag and she then passed out leaflets as she explained that she was merely trying to get Field's back. On that flight, the people became so excited and clamoring that the flight attendant had to announce several times for people to settle down as the airliner was about to leave the gate. When the flight attendant discovered the reason why people were appearing to be unruly, she exclaimed, "Oh! I see...Everyone wants Marshall Field's! Can't say I can blame you! (applause, applause!) We all want Marshall Field's!" Even one of the pilots shook her hand and gave her support as she left the airliner.

So, to you Field's Fans everywhere in the U.S., just carry a spare Marshall Field's shopping bag and you could be amazed at the response. When you get these captive audiences, be sure to tell them to boycott macy's and bloomingdale's in order to force macy's Inc. to sell Field's to a buyer who cares about high quality, outstanding service and merchandise selection and the cultural icon that Field's represents.

Be sure to print the leaflets available on this website for people to keep. In doing so, wherever you live, you will be helping the loyal Field's Fans bring back Field's.


Date: Wed, April 9, 2008  7:57 pm, CT
Posted by: JasonM

Macy's stock continues to slide. Even with a recession in place, there is always the very rich (Saudi princes, REITs, Private Equity Firms, etc.) who would consider purchasing something like Field's and its real estate. They'd want the real estate to "hedge their bet" however they'd hopefully take the approach L&T owner did. Create something good and viable for the long term!

Date: Wed, April 9, 2008  5:15 pm, CT
Posted by: gle

I just made my weekly trek past State and Randolph. The Marshall Field name plates are weather-stained and badly in need of polishing. It's like somebody is trying to let them become so faded that they no longer visible.

The poor dried up plants are gone from the center aisles. Now the main floor is less crowded and you notice the lack of customers again. Flower decals remain stuck all over everything--it looks like a little kid was allowed total freedom to do the decorating. And the pastel paper butterflies are still piled on top the chandeliers in the southeast corner of the store by ladies' accessories.

I am encouraged by the reports of a comeback for Lord & Taylor. Somebody must want a quality department store. We need somebody who can buy and restore Field's--and polish the name plates!


Date: Wed, April 9, 2008  3:31 pm, CT
Posted by: Laurie C

I was visiting a friend in Indianapolis last week and one night she had a dinner party. The talk turned to department stores and I heard their horror stories about the loss of Lazarus and Ayres and what a disaster Macy's is there, too. But the best story was from a woman originally from Chicago whose mom worked first at Field's on State Street and then at Old Orchard for many years (an entire career). I guess Field's gave its employees some type of wooden purse at one time. Well, when this woman's mom died a year ago they buried her with her rosary in one hand and her Field's purse in the other! Can you imagine any other store/employer that would invoke such loyalty?


Date: Wed, April 9, 2008  1:09 pm, CT
Posted by: gle

I just e-mailed specialevents@carnegiehall.org to let them know how disappointed I am in their selection of Terry Lundgren for their 2008 Medal of Excellence in support of the arts. According to their website www.carneigiehall.org the awards ceremony was yesterday. I also added that Lundgren should actually be fined for littering--Macy's is an eyesore.


Date: Wed, April 9, 2008  3:56 am, CT
Posted by: Brian

I can't believe they have extended Terry another 3 weeks, let alone 3 years. And they are paying him!! Sears/Kmart recently shook up their upper-management. Sears/Kmart doesn't want to end up like Macy's.

Date: Tues, April 8, 2008  11:25 pm, CT
Posted by: Another Field's Fan

It's Clinique Bonus week at Von Maur for all you ladies. Good time to check out the store in Glenview, Lombard, etc.

Date: Mon, April 7, 2008  11:20 am, CT
Posted by: drew

BUSINESS WEEK has an article entitled "Toxic Stocks." Guess which "sensation across the nation" made the list:

http://www.businessweek.com/investor/content/apr2008/pi2008044_082136.htm

The subheading "Dump Department Stores" has special meaning to fieldsfans since "dump" can readily be used as an adjective to describe macy*mart. Two analysts mentioned in the article see macy*mart's stock values and profits dropping and advise getting rid of the stock. One prediction is that stock will drop to $18 per share--from a high of what when macy*fication began? At least their sales and share value have been consistent--consistently falling!(In fairness, the article also recommends selling Dillard's stock.)

No doubt "those wacky folks at macy*s" are relieved that marketing genius Terry Lunkhead was recently given a contract extension. He now has an additional three years to continue his highly successful "exciting" enhancements and "exclusive" celebrity merchandise! We can only wonder what "improvements" lie ahead.


Date: Mon, April 7, 2008  10:48 am, CT
Posted by: gle

Here's some optimistic news from the "Tribune" about a return of the Lord & Taylor rose logo. The article mentions that NRDC Equity Partners LLC purchased Lord & Taylor from Macy's "... and has since poured money into bringing the 47-store chain back to life."

At the end of the article is a mention that "Moody'sInvestors Service put Macy's credit rating under review for a possible downgrade on Friday, saying that the slowdown in consumer spending could prevent the company from maintaining its already 'weak credit metrics.'"

"Rose logo in full bloom again," April 5, 2008 by Sandra M. Jones

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-sat-retail-notebook-apr05,0,3083985.story

Letters may be sent to ctc-TribLetter@tribune.com" and smjones@tribune.com


Date: Sun, April 6, 2008  11:22 pm, CT
Posted by: rebecca

In Houston, Macy's stole our Foley's !!! I liked Macy's before it began taking over great stores. I have been to the Chicago Marshall Fields and loved it. I think that the original flagship stores-Foley's and Marshall Fields, should have been able to keep the original names!

Date: Sun, April 6, 2008  11:01 pm, CT
Posted by: Robert

Welcome, Damion.

It is nice to know that even Russia is joining our fight.


Date: Sat, April 5, 2008  11:01 pm, CT
Posted by: Ana

Kauffman's...LS Ayres...Foley's...Strawbridge's...Famous Barr...Robinsons-May...Meier & Frank...Hecht's...

I've been to them all...

I went to Virginia to Kentucky to Texas to Pensylvania to wherever Famous Barr is (because I forgot...) to Hollywood to New England to North Carolina... Wow, and plus I got all the paper bags...Except Marshall Field's :( When I was here at Chicago for Labor Day of September 12, 2006 it was too late. Anyways I also missed the memoribilia thing :( and I really wanted to go.

Anyways, I'll check ebay. :]

Please Field Fans, get Fields back! Not because I want paper bags, it's just that MAY always had cheaper prices and LESS exclusions.

Anabel


Date: Sat, April 5, 2008  1:45 pm, CT
Posted by: C. C. Chicago

Here's a draft of a letter I'm working on:

Mr. Terry Lundgren
C.E.O. MacyC-s


April 3, 2008

Dear Mr. Lundgren,

I need the following items:

  • a large leather purse
  • a few pairs of shoes
  • a nice suit
  • some spring clothes
  • some Henckels cuttlery
  • some more Fiesta Ware

If you want to decrease your sales and drive me out of your store at 111 N. State St., Chicago, IL., while increasing sales at Carson's, Nordstrom and Lord & Taylor, try this:

* blast loud, pounding disco music from every corner of the first floor, put up huge, garish, plastic, Alice in Wonderland-like-nightmarish displays, have extremely bright lights aimed directly in my eyes in the basement, causing me to get a debilitating migraine and making me unable to continue shopping.

* Make sales people as scarce as henC-s teeth so I canC-'t even find the item IC-m looking for. Then, when I do find a saleswoman, make sure she is extremely loud, pushy and aggressive. To seal the deal and compel me to give up shopping in your store completely, make sure there is hardly anything left to eat or drink in the food court at 5:30 pm.

* Watch me march out of the Randolph Street doors again, with no large shopping bags in hand.

Sincerely,

(name withheld)
Chicago, Illinois
A former Marshall Field's shopper


Date: Sat, April 5, 2008  1:45 pm, CT
Posted by: Jack K

Hmmm. Minimal B&W in the Sun Times, color in the Trib-- perhaps even the geniuses at "M" have figured out the working class folks who read the Times are really hurting, and not spending unless it is K-mart, and heck, you can buy Martha Stewart there CHEAPER!

Or at Wal-mart, and get a better deal on the same quality of goods.

Those who only get partly apoplectic when they drop $50-60 on a fillup have already moved to L&T, von Maur, C&B or other better retailers, but Messys still has not figured that out, probably never will.

Jack


Date: Sat, April 5, 2008  6:23 am, CT
Posted by: Fields Fan

Today's Tribune retailing column talks about Lord and Taylor's rebirth and also the possibility of Macy's stock being downgraded.

With Lord and Taylor as an example, you can't say that Macy's problems are because of the economy. If Macy's would let go of Field's and let it come back, it would be doing as well, if not b etter, than Lord and Taylor.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-sat-retail-notebook-apr05,0,3083985.story

Date: Fri, April 4, 2008  8:58 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

ABC7 News has a segment today on the fashion incubator at Macy's on State.

There is a web version at:
http://abclocal.go.com/wls/story?section=news/local&id=6062828

You can leave comments at the botton of this article; however, you have to sign up for a login.

My comment was that Macy's could do a lot more for this city's international fashion rep by bringing back it's best known brand, Marshall Field's.

You can also help by emailing the station your thoughts about this story. You can do that without a login at the following web page:
http://abclocal.go.com/wls/feature?section=resources/inside_station/station_info&id=5770573. Alternatively, you can click the "contact" button the right side of the web page that displays the article.

Jim


Date: Fri, April 4, 2008  3:49 pm, CT
Posted by: Ed

Crain's has a video running on their web site that shows "then and now" shots of State Street. Marshall Field's is shown back in the 1970s when it had the awnings with the gold fringe. Then it shows it with the horrible flower show awnings from a couple of weeks ago that look like cartoons. There are other interesting photos too.

http://www.chicagobusiness.com/cgi-bin/multiMedia.pl?mmId=219

Date: Fri, April 4, 2008  2:34 pm, CT
Posted by: Peg W.

Why does the Sun-Times continue to whore itself by reprinting little more than advertising releases from Macy's? Macy's has even cut back advertising in the Sun-Times. Today they had one ad that was black and white while they had more than four times the ad space for Macy's and Bloomingdale's in the Tribune and some of it was color.

Date: Fri, April 4, 2008  1:54 pm, CT
Posted by: drew

Moody's may lower macy*mart's ratings because of poor performance:

http://www.marketwatch.com/News/Story/Story.aspx?guid=%7bE11FFCA6-5498-4FD3-B9A5-49991EBD69F2%7d&siteid=yhoo&dist=yhoo

The downgrading follows this week's decrease in Triple T's compensation because of macy*mart's poor sales.

Despite the continued indications that "the sensation across the nation" is an absolute failure, "those wacky folks at macy*s" extended Three-Headed Terry's contract. Sales have plummeted, stock values have dropped almost 50 per cent, customers have fled to other shopping venues--yet the "marketing genius" who failed in his arrogant attempts to "re-invent" the department store and to "re-educate" consumers to purchase overpriced, poor quality "celebrity" merchandise has been rewarded with a contract extension.

Does anyone in corporate headquarters have some concept of reality?


Date: Thurs, April 3, 2008  3:48 pm, CT
Posted by: LiMack

I recently read the book "Loving Frank" which is the partly fictionalized telling of Frank Lloyd Wright's life during the years he was building his second home, Taliesin, up in Wisconsin. In a late chapter of the book, after the house is finally finished, a train car full of furnishings arrives at the station in Spring Green, Wisconsin and is delivered to Taliesin. It includes rugs, furniture, linens, dishes and even a grand piano. Yes, the eminent Frank Lloyd Wright had gone shopping at Marshall Field's on State Street to furnish his home!

Even though this grand purchase occurred almost a century ago, it dramatically reinforced once again the importance of Field's within Chicago's life, and the high esteem afforded Field's by people who are very important to the growth and fame of our city. It further adds to the rich tapestry of Chicago area history in which Marshall Field's played such a big part, continuously for 150 years, until Macy's came to town.

It is unthinkable that Macy's ruined all that customer loyalty and good will in their vain (and failed) attempts to achieve some silly economies of scale, while trying to build a chintzy national brand that no one wants.


Date: Thurs, April 3, 2008  9:44 am, CT
Posted by: Darrell

I live in Indianapolis and have only been in MF a few times during my visits to Chicago. However I do support Chicago's boycott, as I am boycotting Macys here in Indianapolis. When I first moved to Indy in 89, I did most of my shopping at Lazarus and L.S.Ayres. I even worked at Lazaurs part time for about a year. When FDS changed Lazarus to Maays, I never set foot in those stores again. Then of course the unthinkable happend with the recent conversion of L.S. Ayers to Macys. After both Lazarus and Ayres was taken over by Macys, I did try to give Macys a chance and contiuned to shop in the former L.S.Ayres stores. Like everyone else across the nation, it turned out to be a shopping nightmare. Anyhow, Carsons came to downtown Indy in Jan 07, and beleive me, all the money that I would have spent at Lazarus and Ayres (now Macys) is all going to Carsons. I know Carsons is not the grandest stores in the country, but it has Macys beat by a longshot when it comes to quality, selection, and good customer service.

So now matter where you live, boycott Macys by shopping elsewhere.


Date: Thurs, April 3, 2008  5:12 am, CT
Posted by: A. Perkins

Oh, No!

Poor Terry only got $14 Million for running macy's.

How will he ever survive?

He will have to start shopping at Kmart instead of macy's. But wait! How will Terry know the difference between macy's and Kmart since they both sell the same Martha Stewart merchandise?


Date: Wed, April 2, 2008  9:56 pm, CT
Posted by: Richard in Houston

For Field's and other regional department store fans, I have collected a number of old commercials and photos at the foleysofcourse group in yahoo groups. Anyone is welcome to join. KEEP UP THE FIGHT to bring back Field's, Foley's, Filene's and the host of other stores.

Date: Wed, April 2, 2008  8:53 pm, CT
Posted by: James in Minneapolis

I was in Downtown St Paul this afternoon with my boss for a meeting. neither one of us had had time for lunch yet. By the time we were done with this St Paul meeting, it was 2:30p. He said to me he wanted to go to macy's and grab something quick and eat.

The St Paul store is much smaller than the Downtown Minneapolis store and also smaller than most of the stores out in the 'burbs as well. However, when Marshall Field's remodeled it a few years back, it was still a decent store.

Wow----how times have changed. We went up to 2nd floor where the small food area is. When he was finished eating, and we were walking back thru the 2nd floor Men's Area, he said to me, "OK, I realize it's 3:00p on a Wednesday afternoon, which is not prime shopping time, but do you realize we are the only people in the store?" Indeed, on that floor, that was a true statement. On main floor, there were perhaps 7 shoppers.

Apparently attitudes about the downgrading of Marshall Field's to macy's in St Paul are just the same as in Minneapolis----I guess the same in Milwaukee, too; Chicago, too; Detroit, too.

Regards.


Date: Wed, April 2, 2008  7:40 pm, CT
Posted by: Jeff W.

Reading the newspaper accounts today about Lundgren's compensation of $14.4 million in 2007 makes one wonder what is wrong with the shareholders of Macy's, Inc and their Board of Directors? What are they thinking? How could an individual who had caused the value of their shares of stock to drop almost 50% in a year's time be worth any form of compensation, let alone an obscene amount of $14.4 million? Something is basically wrong in our free market society when a person who is so inept in department store merchandising is allowed to garner such compensation. Why aren't the shareholders picketing the headquarters of Macy's, Inc?

Date: Wed, April 2, 2008  5:06 pm, CT
Posted by: Mike

AMAZING.... If you have not already checked out Lord&Taylor's Web Site do so.... They really know what the customer wants and are making the biggest comeback in years. Something as simple as a ROSE is all they needed to make a new marketing statement. Until we have our Marshall Fields back (and not under MACY"S INC. control) we have LORD & TAYLOR.

Date: Wed, April 2, 2008  9:05 am, CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels

Those wacky folks at Macy's wanted to be the "sensation across the nation" but we all know that didn't work out very well. So they are setting up teams of regional merchandisers and developing regional advertising. Gee, they are becoming a regional operation. It's a plan called "My Macy's". (Golly, they can't even be original - a stolen idea from "My McDonald's" campaign from 2 years ago). They should have spared themselves a lot of trouble and just kept their brand-leading nameplates like Marshall Field's.

An article in the March 31 edition of Crain's Chicago Business features an interview with Peter Sachse, Macy's Chief Marketing Officer. "Macy's seeks balance in all things ad-related" talks about Macy's plans to make itself more "locally relevant." (HA)

Natalie Zmuda writes, "The program, announced last month, could assuage criticisms from customers of the former May Co. and Marshall Field's stores that Macy's doesn't understand their needs." Hmm, didn't they just say two months ago that the wants and needs of former Field's customers are of no interest to the M-store. Macy's doesn't understand our needs are quality merchandise, leading edge style and good customer service.

OK Field Fans, I need your help. I've already had several letters printed in Crain's that concerned Marshall Fields. They would prefer to "hear from somebody else." Write those letters to the editor! Email address in letters@chicagobusiness.com

On another topic:

Did you see the new ad from Macy's touting Santanna Shoes for Women. Carlos Santanna is an amazing musician but what does he have to do with shoes? Please explain, I am completely lost on this one.


Date: Wed, April 2, 2008  8:57 am, CT
Posted by: Drew

Perhaps Terry Lungreed will share some of the pain he inflicted on others since his compensation decreased:

http://biz.yahoo.com/ap/080401/macy_s_executive_compensation.html?.v=1

Although macy*mart has been in control of the former May stores almost THREE YEARS--those stores are STILL failing??? Evidently "the magic of macy*mart" has failed to attract shoppers despite Lungreed's assurances that the "exciting" enhancements would make customers forget their favorite regional department stores and love macy*mart. Wouldn't most rational analysts see that customers have NOT embraced macy*mart and have moved on to other shopping venues? Wouldn't the shareholders finally realize that the macy*fication project ISN'T working and their shares will only continue to lose value? Shouldn't the shareholders cut their losses, dismiss Lunkhead and his followers, and appoint a new management team that would be responsive to customers?

Granted, the economy is difficult and consumer spending is down. The current macy*mart offerings--poor quality, bland, unattractive, indistinct, overpriced merchandise--provide no reason for shoppers to visit the stores. Quality, value and service are lacking. Rather than offering "something for everybody," macy*mart really has "nothing for anybody."


Date: Wed, April 2, 2008  7:49 am, CT
Posted by: gle

Here's the "Sun-Times" coveraage of Lundgren's losses:

"Macy's CEO compensated $14,4Min 2007"

http://www.suntimes.com/business/873080,lundgren040208.article

Date: Wed, April 2, 2008  7:45 am, CT
Posted by: gle

From the "Tribune," looks like Lundgren is finally being affected by his mistakes:

"Macy's CEO paid less as firm struggles,"

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-wed-macys-executive-compensaapr02,0,4950151.story


Date: Tues, April 1, 2008  10:22 pm, CT
Posted by: LiMack

Last Tuesday evening my family and I had dinner reservations in the loop before going to the Goodman to see a play. Always hard to judge traffic at that time of day, we arrived downtown and got parked a full 30 minutes before our slot to be seated at the restaurant. In the past, without question we would have taken the opportunity to dash over to see what was new at Field's and would have had a fine time during that extra half hour. Of course that is no longer possible thanks to Terry Lundgren and his minions.

Well, our dinner was great and the play was fabulous. But, we sure do miss Marshall Fields.


Date: Tues, April 1, 2008  2:43 pm, CT
Posted by: Rudy Treece

I am from Metro Grand Rapids (Baby Chicago) - the hub of Michigan's West Coast. As a child, I spent many a summer visiting family and friends in Chicago and always seemed to find my way to Marshall Fields at State Street or over at Water Tower.

Now fast forward to a few years ago when here in GR, the Detroit-based Hudson's - that locally had branches at Woodland and RiverTown Crossings malls - was acquired by Marshall Fields. Now, mind you, Hudson's was a nice department store, but for West Michigan (and the rest of the state) to gain that green, stately, loopy, cursive MARSHALL FIELDS logo on the sides of those transformed Hudson's was almost too good to be true. It without question added an elevated upscale aura to GR and Michigan retailing. I even drove over to Detroit to see myself the Marshall Fields name emblazoned on the former flagship Hudson's at Northland Mall. Sure enough, it did not look crazy - it looked like it was just a natural progression.

Though not a Chicagoan by birth, I am a citizen of Midwest America and Chicago is the capital city of the Midwest just as Los Angeles is the West Capital, Houston is the South Capital and New York is the East Capital. With that said, I feel that many Midwesterners would agree with me when I say that the expansion of Marshall Fields throughout the Midwest was greatly welcomed and just seemed like "the natural progression" of things.

Likewise and conversely, I know that my Midwestern peers that had gained Marshall Fields stores locally were HOTTLY pissed to have their newly acquired piece of Chicago stolen by an unwanted piece of gaudy-@#% New York. I CANNOT STAND MACY'S - especially since they stole from me something I never thought I would have locally in GR. BRING MARSHALL FIELDS BACK WITH ITS SERVICE, ITS FASHIONS, ITS FRANGO'S AND ITS GREEN BAGS RIGHT FRIGGIN' NOW.

-Thank you from Metro Grand Rapids (and thank you for letting me get that off my chest)


Date: Mon, March 31, 2008  9:12 pm, CT
Posted by: A Friend in the Northeast

http://www.lordandtaylor.com/gifts/pdf/press/WWDRose3.27.08.pdf

Gosh Lord and Taylor knows what the customer wants-- they're bring back their rose. It's so classy - Just like Marshall Field's.

Was in Herald Square for the Flower Show in NYC. I was shocked to see little Frango boxes with little apple ornaments on them that said: I love New York. Marshall Field must be rolling in his grave.


Date: Mon, March 31, 2008  8:56 pm, CT
Posted by: BH

There once was a very popular Christmas bear sold by Dayton Hudson. It was called "Santa Bear" and each year Santa Bears sold out as generations of customers added to their collections or bought the famous Santa Bears for friends and family members.

Dayton Hudson, the former owners of Marshall Field's, decided to change the name of their own Dayton Hudson stores to Marshall Field's. Management cited Field's better performance, Field's premium image as a high-end department store, Field's relationship with more luxury merchandise vendors and Field's more prestigious and world-renowned name recognition all as reasons for the change. When the former Dayton Hudson stores became Marshall Field's, Santa Bear became Marshall Field's Santa Bear... and Santa Bear remained very popular with customers.

Contrast this with Macy's and their decision to retire Santa Bear. It's clear that as "Macy's" Santa Bear, no one wanted to buy it. Before the announcement, Macy's Santa Bears were piled up on Christmas tables, marked down 50% to 75% off.

Now, Macy's has on its website a Macy's 2007 Christmas Bear with 4 chocolate hearts wrapped in red foil in the shape of Macy's star. The bear is 24" tall and has Macy's 2007 stitched onto the souls of its feet. The original price was $26.00, but now they're available for $4.99. (Macy's "Freindeer the Reindeer" comes with Frango's, but since it didn't sell at $26.00, it too is now $4.99.) Doesn't seem like Macy's very large 24" bear held the same appeal as Field's traditional Santa Bear. But of course, Macy's tells us that the name of the store doesn't matter and that Field's cherished traditions are being respected and that all that's changed is that they're now more exciting in Macy's name.

For a laugh, check out the only "Customer Review" posted for the bear on Macy's website: "The macy bear is always so cuddly, soft and well made, I give it to my grand children and others who would appreciate it. Thanks for bringing it back every year."

Does anyone really believe that a customer would write this?? It was probably written by the same PR staff that supplies the news services with all those thrilling press releases and that comb the message boards to tell us how exciting everything is at Macy's.

http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=278201&CategoryID=34470#reviews

Date: Mon, March 31, 2008  7:08 pm, CT
Posted by: MJA1951

My wife and I were cutting through Macy's in Woodfield on Saturday night. I noticed they are in the middle of a renovation. While I detest Macy's and am very outspoken about what has happened to Field's, I have to say some of the changes actually made the store look better.

I told my wife that I could have saved them a lot of money with the suggestion to bring back the Field's name and the clothing lines. No matter what they do you still can't change the fact that Macy's has crummy service and poor quality clothes. Perfume on a pig still makes it a pig.

As we were walking thru, I decided to use the Men's washroom. As I opened the door to the lower level bathroom which is near the food, and found the bathroom floor was covered with water. No sign at the doorway or anything to say the bathroom was out of service.

An interesting approach that while they are re-modeling the store the're not paying attention to something as basic as the bathroom.


Date: Mon, March 31, 2008  6:45 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Like last Friday's edition (see my post below), today's Sun-Times has another article today that manages somehow to ignore how the loss of Marshall Field's has significantly impact a local part of the economy.

I'm referring to today's story on Chicago-based suitmaker Hart Schaffner Marx. Hart Schaffner Marx -- and Chicgao's economy-- lost a huge chunk of business when Macy's dropped Marshall Field's and lines of quality suits carried by Field's. Today's Sun-Times article by Sandra Guy talks about how Hart Schaffner Marx is scouting around The Loop to open it's own store. No doubt that this Chicago business needs it's own store as a result of the loss of Field's. But does the article ever mention how Hart Schaffner Marx was severly hurt by Macy's getting rid of Field's and Hart Schaffner Marx quality products? Not at all. It's clear that contrary to the Sun-Times' latest slogan, it seems the Sun-Times doesn't want to get into it with Macy's.

Please write the Sun-Times and let them know they should present the full Chicago story and have enough integrity to present all the facts. Email letters@suntimes.com and sguy@suntimes.com

The full article can be found at:

http://www.suntimes.com/business/868864,CST-FIN-hart31.article

Date: Mon, March 31, 2008  5:01 pm, CT
Posted by: Field's Fan

The Topix comments section for Tribune articles has over 100 responses to last week's story on the introduction of Organic Frangos at 70 Macy's stores. One recent post from today makes a very astute point: if the conversion of Marshall Field's to Macy's was going over even a little bit, why a) does Macy's feel the need to push the local media to saturate the news with word of these new candies, and b) why would such a news item still, after 18 months, generate over 100 responses, most of them highly negative towards Macy's.

It's clear that Macy's has made a huge mistake. It's clear the conversion is not working. It's clear that customers still are boycotting Macy's a year and half later. It's clear Emperor Terry Lundgren "has no clothes". It's clear that the only way to fix this is to bring back Marshall Field's in quality and service as well as name.


Date: Mon, March 31, 2008  3:46 pm, CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels

Have you seen the new Magic of Macy's TV ad? It actually shows a group of those wacky Macy's employees (dressed in black of course) standing around chatting with each other...ignoring the customers in the background. At last, truth in advertising!

The spot also features our dear Martha talking to Macy's employees...all the while customers in the background are ignored. It closes with an odd shot of Donny Trump lurking around in the men's department. Kind of creepy. Like we believe Donny shops at that store. It is always so hard to decide if I want an Alfarni suit or the Trump label. NOT!

Remember how helpful and knowledgeable Field's employees ALWAYS were? Remember the great selection of merchandise? Remember when those stores were actually filled with customers? Boy I miss Field's. Until then, Lord and Taylor are my best buds.


Date: Mon, March 31, 2008  8:55 am, CT
Posted by: gle

When I came to work this morning there were some people handing out information about cholesterol outside my office. I took their literature, and one of them yelled, "Hey, Marshall Field's!" Fortunately I had a few leaflets and buttons stuffed in my briefcase. They grabbed the whole supply and cheered Field's as I went into the building. There are some good things about rainy Monday mornings.

Date: Sun, March 30, 2008  11:18 am, CT
Posted by: Michael Trenteseau

This is in followup to an item James in Minneapolis posted about this past Monday.

http://www.walletpop.com/2008/02/27/these-stores-deserve-to-close/

It's probably worthwhile to check out again because of the twelve pages of comments... many talking about how M***'s destroyed the regional stores, some saying that their local M***'s is nice, and a couple from the corporate shills that say things like "I love M***'s, it's the only place I go to buy presents for my wife." (I feel sorry for HER...)

I also think it's fitting how the picture with it is a M***'s sign surrounded by cut flowers, like it's a tombstone.


Date: Sat, March 29, 2008  7:12 pm, CT
Posted by: Drew

Ladies: Now is the time to pick up some "exciting" fashions for your wardrobe. Visit the Goodwill store on East Carson Street in Pittsburgh and browse the eight jam-packed round clothing racks in front of the store. Here you will find a wide assortment of BRAND NEW merchandise (still with tags) from Charter Club, INC, and other "exclusive" suppliers.

What a brilliant marketing strategy from "those wacky folks at macy*s" that will allow Goodwill shoppers to experience Macy's since clearly Macy's can't move the merchandise themselves.


Date: Sat, March 29, 2008  6:32 pm, CT
Posted by: Matt

Greeting from the left coast Field's fans! Want to share with you just another infuriating thing about Macys.

Was checking out macys.com, probably the only profitable section of the company at this point, because you don't have to stop near the place.

Checking out the FRANGO situation, here's the page for everyone's reference.

http://www1.macys.com/catalog/product/index.ognc?ID=298231&CategoryID=34470&LinkType=EverGreen

Ok, so what's the situation in the store-- in this case in SF store? Online, the price was 50% off of $20.00, or 9.99. Same price in store? OH NO, in Store, 50% off of $30.00, yes 30 bucks for the same thing that was $20 online, or, 50% more to shop in store. ($15.00 in store on sale.)

I could see the original $20.00 price tag under the $30.00 price tag, which just infuriated me more. Well... until I notified the Better Business Bureau, which I hope everyone will do.

BRING BACK FIELDS


Date: Sat, March 29, 2008  11:40 am, CT
Posted by: Daniel F

I am so glad that there are still genuine fans of Marshall Fields.

Over the years I have collected enouogh memoribilia to fill two rooms in my house, a lot which was actually given to me by the store some years ago.

I live in Atlanta and Macys did not get my wedding, we used Belk. I have sent a letter to Macys on another issue, they just dont seem to get it. In it I tell them how much money I spent at Belk's last year, over $2500. That might raise an eyebrow, since it was money I used to spend there.


Date: Fri, March 28, 2008  8:26 pm, CT
Posted by: Drew

At lunch today, a co-worker was telling us that her daughter who lives in Florida arrived last night for a visit. The daughter is a member of macy*mart management in Florida and she reported that sales are terrible. The co-worker said the buyers are totally out of touch with customer preferences. For example, the stores were overstocked on frilly Easter dresses, especially for little girls. Evidently Florida folks don't go for these fancy dresses like the women and girls in the northeast. In addition, Easter was earlier than usual this year, so a delicate, flimsy fabric might not have been appropriate on a chilly, damp morning.

The daughter said that macy*mart sales are even WORSE than expected and that the coming months don't look very promising.

Of course, the rest of us all had stories about the poor quality, overpriced, bland merchandise at macy*mart and lamented the loss of Kaufmann's. Another co-worker said that he doesn't know how macy*mart keeps their doors open as the stores are always deserted. The economy is difficult, and people are looking for quality and value--but macy*mart has the reputation for neither! For most shoppers, the Red Star Store is completely irrelevant.


Date: Fri, March 28, 2008  5:12 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Today's Chicago Sun-Times has a story about their "Keep it Wrigley" campaign. It sure sounds a lot like the "Keep It Field's" campaign and website that preceded this site. Of course, there is one difference as far as the Sun-Times is concerned: the amount of coverage support they give to the two Chicago institutions, Field's and Wrigley.

In the case of Wrigley, it's owned by their arch rival so it's obvious that they are going to rally their Sun-Times readers by pulling out the stops in a campaign against the Tribune. This contrasts with how the Sun-Times has handled coverage of Macy's obliteration of Marshall Field's. Macy's is one of the Sun-Times' top advertisers so, in contrast to their coverage of Wrigley, the Sun-Times much more often than not, looks the other way or minmizes coverage of Macy's mis-steps and other circumstances pointing towards the need to bring back Field's.

Today's edition has a prime example. The Sun-Times has an article touting how a lot of "Keep It Wrigley" t-shirts have been made up by a Chicago area t-shirt maker and sold to suppoters all around the U.S. Yet, does the Sun-Times ever report on how hundreds of Field's shirts and bumper stickers and over 100,000 pin on buttons and lapel stickers have been distributed worldwide by Gail and others?

A link to the article is below--be sure to check it out and then email a reminder to the Sun-Times that if they are to survive they need to be more balanced and thorough in their coverage of Chicago. Your email should be sent to letters@suntimes.com and kspak@suntimes.com

I have admiration and respect for all you do to help bring back Chicago's Marshall Field's.

http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/865675,CST-NWS-wrig28.article

Date: Fri, March 28, 2008  3:13 pm, CT
Posted by: Winnie Johnson

Haven't posted in quite some time though I am a faithful follower of this blog and enjoy the comments of fellow Fieldsfans everywhere.

In lieu of having Field's back, it is nice to see Lord & Taylor getting good press. We now do a lot of shopping there and have noticed their conscious attempt to update the store interiors and bring in brands that once used to be Fields' standards. Several times last year, I received postcards noting that I had visited the store and asked if I would like to comment on my experience. Twice I received token gift certificates ($15 and $30) that could be applied toward any purchase, no restrictions except for an expiration date.

Someone understands what customer appreciation means.

I miss Marshall Fields but I WILL NOT stoop to shopping at M***s!


Date: Fri, March 28, 2008  9:29 am, CT
Posted by: mds in mt. prospect

My family and I just got back from our Spring Break vacation in Washington, D.C. While there, we were looking for some souvenirs. As we were taking the D.C. Metro (AWESOME transit system!), one of the stores that we found along the way was a macy's. I looked at the sign and honestly had no desire to go inside. The whole Marshall Field's/Chicago thing aside, I felt that there was no reason to go into this store for anything since I was sure to find nothing regionally special there.

The same holds true had I seen a J.C. Penney, Sears, Wal-Mart, or any other chains that were "inspired" by that genius, Terry Lundgren to go nationwide with their stores. You can bet the farm that had we found a regional store unique to the D.C. area, we most definitely would have gone in if for no other reason than to see what they had to offer that we couldn't readily get back home. Also, had I purchased a shirt or some other such article at a regional department store, each and every time I would wear that item would have brought back memories of our trip to Washington, D.C. just as I'm certain people are reminded of their trips to Chicago each time they wear something they've purchased at Marshall Fields. I think that these retailers are missing the boat. I really don't think people are demanding to all look the same from coast to coast.

Picture a formal event where all of the women had to choose from three (and only three) dress styles and they all ended up looking the same! Look at the coverage of any of Hollywood's red carpet events. All they talk about are the DIFFERENT styles that people are wearing. In fact, these people are ridiculed for wearing the same style as anyone else. So why oh why would those fools at macy's think for a minute that decimating all of those wonderful regional stores and forcing people across the nation to all buy the same cheap quality macy's merchandise would be a good idea?

Alakazam, alakazoo, watch me drive all of my customers out of my store. Presto! Aah, the continuing magic of macy's!


Date: Thurs, March 27, 2008  9:03 pm, CT
Posted by: Mike M

I was exploring the web site that "amelia" suggested a couple of days ago. It is the website with the projects, done back in 2004, of some third graders who were asked to build models of Chicago landmarks. The first item on the website is a child's model of the Marshall Field's building on State Street. The model is adorable and the child's words that accompany the model are very touching, considering what has become of the Marshall Field's building. Please take a moment to take a look at this model. It will break your heart:

http://www.ahsd25.k12.il.us/School%20Info/Ivy%20Hill/3rd_Grade_Chicago/ChicagoLandmarks.html

Date: Thurs, March 27, 2008  7:58 pm, CT
Posted by: FieldsFan123

I wrote Water Tower Place recently to let them know that without Marshall Field's or Lord & Taylor there is really no reason to visit their mall anymore. I asked if they would consider bringing a new department store (even though American Girl is coming). They replied and said that American Girl is coming and that there will be 12 additional retailers. These things register... when WTP is looking to renew their lease with Macy's they'll be like... gee sales numbers are down AND we've been getting a lot of complaints... maybe we should rethink Macy's at WTP.

BTW - Was Field's the only department store to have two MAJOR branches in a downtown area? I can't think of another one. Yeah in SF there are two Macy's bldg but that's more BS b/c they are on the same street.


Date: Thurs, March 27, 2008  7:53 pm, CT
Posted by: Joseph From CA

Hello Field's Fans! It's been a while since my last field report, but just want to give a little update on the "magic" of Macy's in southern CA. The escalator problems that I mentioned a little over a month ago in my local Macy's (Del Amo mall in Torrance, CA) have resurfaced again. The up escalator from the 1st to 2nd floors was out of service for a week, and the up escaltor from the 2nd to 3rd floors has been out of service for close to a week and a half. Hmmm, I guess Macy's is trying to be green by saving electricity on not bothering to fix a couple of escalators. Also in menswear, the sections devoted to Nautica and Calvin Klein sportswear have been trimmed down in favor of yet even more in-house brands.

The upside to all of this is that Macy's is helping me save money because I have no desire to waste it in their stores. I've been able to put my money to far better use. When will somebody step in and fix this trainwreck?


Date: Thurs, March 27, 2008  7:50 pm, CT
Posted by: JasonM

Please remember that as we approach the season ow weddings, engagement parties, bridal showers, house warming parties, etc. that we can influence dozens of people at one time... just by having them consider somewhere other than macy's. Most likely they're not thinking of macy's to begin with but why not just make sure :)

Date: Thurs, March 27, 2008  4:17 pm, CT
Posted by: Love Marshall Fields

I have always loved Marhshall Fields. I am very happy to find this blog because it tells me that others feel the same way. It is dispicable how companies like Macy's to swallow up so many great stores. And it's even worse that they are no where near is good as Marshall Fields was.

Date: Thurs, March 27, 2008  3:27 pm, CT
Posted by: Rich W

I was out shopping at Oak Brook yesterday and did a tour of M*cy's. Some of the store was so dead and depressing I called it a morgue. Sadly, you could see beneath some of the damaged exterior all the beauty of the store that used to be there, Marshall Field's. But what I found interesting is what I heard from two different sets of customers within a 10 minute timeframe: in juniors, one woman said to another that they should "go to Kohl's because they have similar stuff at better prices" and in kid's a mom was saying to her daughter, "we just saw the same exact dress at Sears, so we are going back there to buy it." I also popped into a freestanding Origins store at the center to buy something instead of buying it at M*cy's, and when I told the friendly associates I deliberately bypassed M*cy's to come directly to them to buy this particualar cream, they amusingly asked me why. I said, "M*cy's is a schlock store compared to Field's, like a flea market." The two women giggled, and said, "It's funny. We hear that A LOT!"

Date: Thurs, March 27, 2008  10:12 am, CT
Posted by: Josh Whitlow

I recently vacated my position at a 'Foleys-turned-Macys' store in Colorado. Nothing was done for its employees for Xmas, no gift card, no party, not even a pat on the back!! It seems as if they keep their stores afloat by hiring high school kids or senior citizens who will work for less than $10 an hour with minimal or no raises. It's as if only thing this company cares about is getting people signed up for credit accounts.

Date: Thurs, March 27, 2008  9:39 am, CT
Posted by: Jack K

perhaps a bit off topic, but a good FYI

I have a Sharper Image Gift card that also has a merchandise refund credited to it (value now over $225.) Sharper Image is going thru Chapter 11 right now, and for a while the gift cards were not redeemable. Now they are with a "little" proviso! To redeem the card (in the Chicago area at WT Place, Oakbrook and Woodfield or by phone)you MUST 1. Redeem the entire value of the card, and #2 -- and this is the zinger --you MUST SPEND at least TWICE THE VALUE on the card !! Assuming that Sharper Image works on at least a 40% markup and likely 50%, or more, you end up effectively PAYING the court/Company FULL VALUE or nearly full value for the merchandise you are purchasing with cash or credit card as well as paying a second time for the merchandise you are entitled to get in the first place. It certainly generates cash flow which the court wants, but talk about getting the short end of the stick! It is now on their web site, but you have to look it up under "Gift Cards" to find the "Rules" I went in to WT Place on Tuesday to finally cash the card in and was ready to make a purchase when the "proviso" was made known to me.

JACK


Date: Thurs, March 27, 2008  7:32 am, CT
Posted by: A. Perkins

It seems to me as if macy's has been going green for a long time.

1. They have been saving electricity by being slow to replac burnt out light bulbs in their stores and on their signs. Broken escalators also save electricity.

2. They have been saving trees by doing away with the strong sturdy paper bags that Marshall Field's used and replaced them with thin flimsy plastic bags which break easily.

3. Is it considered organic when they had fruit flies in the lower level of 111 State Street?

In the future macy's must be doing a massive recycling job because it seems they will have to recyle the same Christmas windows year after year at State Street since they fired their window decorator.


Date: Thurs, March 27, 2008  4:55 am, CT
Posted by: gle

So Messy's is going organic. Since their regular Frango's taste like plastic, maybe this a is wise move. There is a current outcry against plastic among environmentalists. But does this mean the new organic Frango's will taste like a cloth recyle bag? I don't plan to try them to find out. They haven't tasted like chocolate since Field's sold them.

Date: Wed, March 26, 2008  3:06 pm, CT
Posted by: Jon C.

Take Heart, Field's Fans...and Fans of regional department stores everywhere!

Today's RETAIL WIRE e-newsletter discusses macy's efforts to become more "local" after years and millions of dollars in becoming national in destroying the venerable, regional names. The comments following the article by retail strategists, professionals and customers all express opinions that are against the "macy-ification" of the U.S.

http://www.retailwire.com/Discussions/Sngl_Discussion.cfm/12847

More and more are coming over to our side. It's gratifying to have retailing experts agreeing with what we have been saying for more than two years now. Keep up the great work in writing to the media, telling business associates and friends, and most of all, boycotting macy's and bloomingdale's until Marshall Field's returns!

P.S. Reference is made to the original intent of macy's Pres, CEO and Chairman Terry Lundgren's in making "macy's, the first national department store. Way back to the time this weblog first began, Field's Fans were informing Mr. Lundgren that the idea of a "national department store" was NOT a new idea. We presented the examples of longtime national department stores of Sears, Roebuck & Co., JCPenney, Target, Kohl's, and Martha Stewart's own Kmart as examples of stores that beat macy's to the punch in becoming national department stores LONG before he thought of the fiasco of an idea in destroying the regional department store culture and cheapening the quality of merchandise, selection and service.


Date: Wed, March 26, 2008  3:02 pm, CT
Posted by: amelia

third grader "representations" of chicago landmarks...

including marshall fields

http://www.ahsd25.k12.il.us/School%20Info/Ivy%20Hill/3rd_Grade_Chicago/ChicagoLandmarks.html

Date: Wed, March 26, 2008  1:52 pm, CT
Posted by: Brad

Wanted to revisit a great example that was posted here about ten days ago. I'm referring to The New York Times article on March 15 about Lord & Taylor's success as a regional brand that has moved to emphasize a more high-end image and better quality merchandise.

Stepping Out After a Makeover

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/15/business/15shop.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&ei=5087&em&en=062b92c6a4206b44&ex=1205726400

"...But the 182-year-old department store chain has, improbably, come roaring back to life. Once-dowdy floors are now lined with up-to-the-minute fashions. Cheap plastic shopping bags have given way to hefty, luxurious ones. And formerly empty stores are bustling with shoppers, giving the chain its best sales figures in 15 years."

Lord & TaylorC-s unexpected success has turned conventional wisdom about modern retailing on its head. Since about 2000, it was believed that department stores had to merge with rivals to survive, wielding size to win over designers and consumers. That encouraged MacyC-s to buy its biggest rival, May Department Stores, and Kmart to purchase Sears Roebuck.

"...Yet the 47-store Lord & Taylor chain, one-twentieth the size of MacyC-s, is proving that there is still room for a small, regional department store chain. The era of relentless mergers, it seems, has left many Americans rejecting the coast-to-coast sameness of MacyC-s in favor of something different."

"MacyC-s decision to eliminate century-old local brands, like Marshall FieldC-s in Chicago, pushed shoppers into Lord & Taylor..."


Date: Wed, March 26, 2008  12:02 pm, CT
Posted by: A. Perkins

(Motorola) the suburban Chicago-based cell phone maker has been under pressure from billionaire investor Carl Icahn for changes meant to revitalize its cell-phone business. The cell phone unit has seen its sales and stock price plummet with the company unable to produce second act to the once-popular Razr phone.

Now all we need is Carl Icahn to pressure macy's to unlock the value that is Marshall Field's.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080326/ap_on_bi_ge/motorola_icahn

Date: Wed, March 26, 2008  7:05 pm, CT
Posted by: Brian

Man, I'm shocked Macy's still does not get it!? *ONLY* in Chicago would a change in venue for Frango's or a flavor change, result in it being broadcast on every channels' news. Only in Chicago would it be announced on the news when a new store manager takes the helm of the former Field's building!

I'm getting the message out about this site. every MF&Co item I purchase, I write "A++TYfor preserving Chicago History!Macy's Way to Flop!Fieldsfanschicago.org"

I get lots of reply backs in my feedback "I miss fields" or "no macy's here"

The worst was I just got a set of plates with the clock, they came wrapped in macy's spring sale ads. Man, I won't even line a bird cage with one of those ads I ran 'em threw the dish washer a few times.


Date: Tues, March 25, 2008  4:49 pm, CT
Posted by: marc

you know i haven't shopped at macy's just look through the store... anyways i was watching dancing with the stars with my wife and at the end of the credits it said "AT&T and MACY'S"

Macy's!?!?!?!?!?!?

Still outraged,

Marc


Date: Tues, March 25, 2008  4:21 pm, CT
Posted by: gle

Looks like Messy's is trying to look good with an all-out campaign for the environment. Unfortunately at this point nobody trusts anything they do anymore. It would be great if they would put some of that detail into creating a quality store (they got their profit last year from a tax settlement, not sales). Or better yet, just sell to someone like Lord & Taylor who is committed to providing a first-class department store.

"Macy's Announces New Partnership with National Park Foundation, Launches Multi-Channel Eco-Awareness Campaign"

http://markets.chicagotribune.com/custom/tribune-interactive/html-story.asp?symb=M&siteid=chicagotribune&guid={09F8C31E-FF30-4959-AB02-4C545E5F62CF}


Date: Mon, March 24, 2008  10:31 pm, CT
Posted by: James in Minneapolis

Oh, This is rich! Below is a link that will take you to a story called "Stores That Deserve to Close," by Jacqueline Mroz. And guess who is the first store mentioned in the list? You got it, baby.

She has some accurate insight, of course, that leads her to her conclusion.

http://www.walletpop.com/2008/02/27/these-stores-deserve-to-close/

Regards.


Date: Mon, March 24, 2008  8:18 pm, CT
Posted by: Mike P

Since I haven't worked in downtown Chicago for the past few years, its rare I go there on a weekday....but today since I was off, and also since I had to go downtown to take my aunt to Union Station to catch a train out of town, I had decided to make an afternoon of it and walk around downtown.

Guess where I went? Yep the M-store. I had wanted to see what this Flowerama deal people were talking about. Needless to say, I was not impressed in the least.

I walked into the store after 2pm. Now you would think that it would have some people at least walking around since families with kids would be on Easter/Spring Break but no it was rather empty. The few associates I saw were either talking on the phone or looked very bored.

I went to the lower level to see what kinds of Frangos they had....and saw what looked like Christmas lights over some funky looking paper...really really tacky. To top it all off, in the center of the store they had this odd-looking funky/ugly colored things sticking up from the planters. Worse yet they had the same kind of colors/artwork (for lack of a better term) in the Walnut Room in the middle (which I might add looked like it was empty...very few people dining in there). Oh yeah the new Frango flavors include Carmel Nut and Sorbet Flavors....I don't think I am going to try the Sorbet flavor....if its anything like the watermelon they did a couple years ago....yuck.

In addition, it seemed to me that a number of escalators were out of service....seemed when I would go down an escalator I had to go to another part of the store to get further down....oh yeah it looks very dirty around the Express Elevator on the Lower Level (which takes you to the 7th Floor)...as others have said it looks like M-store doesn't give a care to how the store looks....

I was also looking to see if I could find a new dress shirt for myself...no tie just a shirt.....and you guessed it...every rack had a shirt and tie combination...(after my dad passed away a few years ago I had gotten some of his tie collection...so I really did not need a shirt and tie just a plain shirt would be fine)...and I might add very pricey too...

What I did note is that the few associates I ran into were not rude but seemed friendly. None did ask if I needed assistance but at least they were fairly nice.

For what its worth to all Chicagoans....Fannie May Candy Stores are having a Buy One Get One Free Sale....I had gone there since I was not able to get the great Marshmallow Eggs before Easter...and they had plenty at the store on the corner of Michigan and Wacker Drive...and yes they had a lot more people shopping there than the M-store had even on the basement level and 7th Floor combined.

Sad indeed.....


Date: Mon, March 24, 2008  3:57 pm, CT
Posted by: gle

Ugh, I won't try this:

"Tribune" article by Sandra M. Jones, "Frangos to go organic"

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-organic-frango-mint-macys-mar24,0,7006952.story


Date: Mon, March 24, 2008  11:53 am, CT
Posted by: Craig Benson

I remembered another time when I was with my Mother and Grandmother at Fields. The downtown area was full of slush and my Grandmother purchased what she called "rubbers" (no comments please) that slipped over my shoes. While riding the escalator down the tip of one of these rubber covered shoes came into contact with the lip that received the stair to re-start the cycle. The whole store was aware when my 4 year old self screamed as the escalator sucked the rubber booty thing right of my foot. In typical fieldC-s fashion, they replaced the item immediately. Thanks for his blog. Together with Ginkgo, I am remembering good times I have not thought about in many years.

Newport News, VA


Date: Sun, March 23, 2008  10:19 pm, CT
Posted by: James in Minneapolis

OK---this time, no joke. I actually am confused. OKOK---maybe just a little humor.

So I get a magazine mailed to my home from macy's a few days ago advising me of the large "Spring Sale" starting this Wednesday, March 26. I look through it and as usual I am appalled at the cheesy merchandise: Tasso Elba & Alfani suits at 50% off; hideous Alfani & CLub Room polo shirts; ugly Alfani & Club Room camp shirts, cargo shorts, & plaid shorts; nasty plaid sneakers & brightly colored boat shoes. To assure my nausea, there are the nastiest-smelling perfumed cards dropping out of the magazine every few pages.

I see in today's Star Tribune that the "After-Easter Sale" starts tomorrow, Monday March 24.

That After-Easter Sale will have to be pretty short----like 1 or 2 days, since the Spring Sale starts on Wednesday. Does anyone else find it really odd that a company claiming to be depending less on sales and relying more on everyday value and the fabulousness of its own magical shopping experience, is having 2 sales in 1 week?

Uggg----even though I immediately removed those nasty perfumed cards and tossed them the first time I looked through that macy's magazine several days ago, I picked the magazine out of the trash to be able to write this post. But it has created a general miasma in my home office and I must now immediately place the thing back in the trash.

Regards.


Date: Sun, March 23, 2008  10:02 pm, CT
Posted by: drew

Easter Greetings to all Fields Fans!

Yesterday I was at a shopping mall in the Pittsburgh region. Surprisingly a large number of shoppers were carrying Red Star bags. Even more shocking was the store was full of people actually selecting merchandise and making purchases. What were "those wacky folks at macy*s" doing to generate so much traffic?

A few minutes I realized why shoppers were swarming the racks--sale toppers advertising an ADDITIONAL 25 or 50 or 75 % off items ALREADY on clearance 50 % off the lowest marked price! What a successful marketing strategy.

A sign announced that WORLD FAMOUS Marshall Field's Frangos" were now available at the Red Star Store. Although all the Frango products were 40 % off, none carried the MF logo.


Date: Sun, March 23, 2008  9:58 pm, CT
Posted by: Michael Trenteseau

The Tom Joyner Morning Show, as it airs here in Atlanta, sometimes goofs and lets us hear a live Carson Pirie Scott ad meant for the Chicago market.

Before the takeover of Field's by M***'s, and the purchase of Carson's by Bon-Ton, the ads were somewhat downmarket:

"Carson's - your style, your store! Down the street or down the mall, they're up on style and down on the price!"

I wish I had the copy for the ad that ran last week - Mr. Joyner takes on a more formal tone, refers to the store as "Carson Pirie Scott," indicates that it's a Chicago institution, and specifically states that their store brands are high quality and are not "imitation designer brands."

We bought some things at the Bon-Ton in Burlington, Vermont over Thanksgiving and had them shipped home. The quality of the packing was worth of Field's - everything was wrapped in tissue in an individual gift box, with sufficient packing peanuts. A call to the manager to compliment them revealed that this was a new corporate-wide effort to improve customer service, focused mainly on attracting higher-end clients to the Midwestern stores.

Bon Ton's stock price is in the toilet - the total market cap is now less than the cash option for a really big Powerball jackpot. But I'm hoping that their focus on quality, value, and customer service allows it to thrive.


Date: Sun, March 23, 2008  8:29 pm, CT
Posted by: JasonM

Yesterday I went to Von Maur in Glenview and it was a great experience. I got great help from the associate, bought a present, and got it gift wrapped for free!

The only good thing about Macy's is that I've gotten a chance to see other stores - Von Maur, Lord & Taylor, etc. Nonetheless, each morning I walk past 111 North and feel the betrayal. How could they take away something that meant so much to Chicago? I will never understand. I will celebrate the day Field's is back.


Date: Sun, March 23, 2008  12:36 pm, CT
Posted by: Brad

There's an insightful and revealing article about Target and Target's soon-to-retire CEO Robert Ulrich in the March 18 Fortune Magazine section on CNN Money.

"Target's inner circle"

http://money.cnn.com/2008/03/18/news/companies/reingold_target.fortune/

The article presents a comprehensive picture of Target's history, managements style, and growth strategies. While the article often compares Target's position to that of Walmart, Field's Fans may be interested to make their own comparisons with Macy's and Macy's egomaniacal CEO.

On Management:

The author notes that in Ulrich's 14 years as CEO of Target, "Though everyone knows Target (TGT, Fortune 500), hardly anyone's even heard of Ulrich." "He has never graced the cover of a major magazine..."

Gregg Steinhafel will replace Ulrich as CEO, and when asked about himself during an interview, he responded, "This isn't about me," he says. Long, awkward pause. "We're all a little bit nervous when we are talking too much about [ourselves]," he allows, finally. "It should all be about the brand."

Ann Mulcahy, CEO of Xerox and longtime Target board member says when asked about Ulrich adn Steinhafel, "Their ambition is about the company; it is not about themselves as individuals."

On Growth Strategies:

The article notes that, "Target faced a choice - one that easily might have put it in the same spot as doomed chains like Caldor or Bradlees. "Some people tried to do the dance on both sides," says Ulrich. "As Wal-Mart got bigger and bigger, [other rivals] started emulating them more, but they were still trying to appeal to an upscale guest. They'd pile shit in the middle of their aisle and then throw in some merchandise that wasn't the right quality for the store level. It's the classic mistake.""

On Merchandise:

"People have within themselves a paradox," says Robyn Waters, a former Target executive who now runs consultancy RW Trend. "Fit in and belong, and also stand out and be unique." With Target's designer wares, shoppers could do both. The company followed up with "mass/class" collections by the likes of Philippe Starck and Todd Oldham, and started to market Target as a destination for design."

"Like many people at Target, (Michael) Francis, 46, has never worked anywhere but at Target and its former parent Dayton Hudson (as a "stylish Marshall Field's buyer".) And although marketing executives are famously transient, not one of his top reports has left for a competitor in more than 16 years. "The energy that flows through here is just amazing, and it's fun," says Karen Gershman, senior vice president of marketing and a 35-year veteran, who started as a proofreader when there were just 42 stores. Another key member of the group: Minda Gralnek, a voluble, stripy-haired 17-year veteran who has headed up many of the company's best-known campaigns, including "Design for All" and the current "Hello Goodbuy." Working closely with them, though he reports to Sternhafel, is Michael Alexin, a relative newbie from Eddie Bauer, who in six years has built an internal product design group of 300. "They never know when they walk in if they are going to be working on branded beef or the newest designer from Bergdorf," says Francis."

Each of Francis's reports - and, in fact, everyone at Target - is expected to constantly grow his or her own web of networks. To spot emerging young designers, for instance, Target has for years contributed to design education projects sponsored by the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA). When bag and shoe designer Jessie Randall of Loeffler Randall became a finalist for the CFDA's Swarovski Award for Accessory Design in 2005, a marketing executive named Sally Mueller invited her to Target to talk about a collaboration. Randall was particularly surprised that the company was willing to accommodate her designs, even giving in to her preference for woven material that was actually - shocking for a discounter - woven. "Everyone said it would have to be embossed, and I said, 'Please just try,'" she recalls. "They always said, 'We don't want you to think about what we might like. We came to you because we want your aesthetic'" Randall's collection just ended a 90-day run in Target's stores."


Date: Sun, March 23, 2008  9:39 am, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Today's Sunday Chicago Tribune magazine has a bit about the Macy's fashion incubator but it also has a photo of the Easter Parade from March 29, 1947 on the inside back cover. This is a parade of people dressed in finery and others in bunny costumes. Where are they parading? Past the "Marshall Field and Company" plaque on State at Randolph.

Date: Sun, March 23, 2008  12:34 am, CT
Posted by: B

Let's remember that while owned by the Dayton Hudson/Target Corporation, Marshall Field's donated a full 5% of all pre-tax profits to charities. This ongoing support is in addition to Field's leadership and the many extraordinary financial gifts to create and enhance the rich cultural heritage we enjoy in Chicago with most of our world-class museums, educational and other institutions.

It would be interesting to know how Macy's philanthropy, innovation and leadership in Chicago compares to that of Marshall Field's. We already know that Macy's has fired thousands of Field's employees, cancelled contracts with Chicago vendors like Hart Marx, provided reduced tax revenues due to Macy's significantly lower sales revenues, eliminated the tourism appeal of the once world-famous Marshall Field's stores - particularly on State Street.

Yet still, the Sun-Times, a newspaper that has displayed a total lack of credibility in its failure to publish articles that might sees fit to mention that Macy's supports the Goodman Theater, Joffrey Ballet and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Perhaps it would be more newsworthy - and sound less like the many Macy's press releases published almost verbatim by the Sun-Times - if they would investigate Macy's impact on Chicago and reveal that Macy's likely provides far less support to these organization than did the Marshall Field's stores that it replaced.


Date: Sat, March 22, 2008  8:59 pm, CT
Posted by: Richard in Houston

My wife and I were in downtown Houston today and passed by the former Foley's flagship. The windows were AWFUL!! Foley's never had such terribly boring and uninspired displays. They just stuck cardboard pictures up in them. It burns me up that they welded off the art deco Foley's lettering that used to be above the corner display windows. They were steel and original to the building. They also removed, of course, the large art deco lettering that was on the 4 sides of the building (they were large letters so as to match the enourmous walls. They were replaced with a silly looking miniature macy's logo. Take a look at my Yahoo Groups site Foleysofcourse. There are pics there. Keep up the fight!!! Marshall Fields (and some of the other regional chains) can come back. They will listen to our wallets.

Date: Sat, March 22, 2008  11:02 am, CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels

I just don't get it. Kohl's is going after Vera Wang. Penny's is going after Ralph Lauren. Both people known for their fashion sense and design work. Macy's? Well, those wacky folks go after the likes of Donny Trump, Mariah Carey and Santanna. Huh? Who will they dig up next? I hear Anne Murray and Tom Sellick are available. It is only a matter of time before Macy's brings back Member's Only jackets and Jordache jeans. Wait a minute. Macy's already has Jordache. Well, then how about Britannica jeans? Oh, got those too? Well, I am sure they will have Wrangler jeans soon. As you know, the Magic of Macy's is how fashion forward they area.

As for the flower show, I remember going to Field's and being awe struck by the incredible displays. The State Street store was a botanical garden of delights. The scent was heavenly. Even the Walnut Room was decorated.

Anyone remember the Frango chocolate bunnies at Field's? Gosh, I miss thall the talented folks at Field's.


Date: Sat, March 22, 2008  7:50 am, CT
Posted by: Heidi

I am 36 years old and have grown up in Marshall Field's, State Street and Old Orchard. My very first credit card was from this great store. That's actually the only card I wanted! My daughter has grown up in Marshall Field's as well. We will not shop at Macy's. It is not only a matter of honoring the institution that is Marshall Field's, and the fact that Marshall Field, himself, helped rebuild the Second City after the Chicago fire, but also a matter of quality. Marshall Field's was always top quality brands and service. When Macy's took over and changed the name, I called to cancel my Marshall Field's credit card. The gal on the other line said, "Oh, you can still use it ven though it's Macy's". To which I explained my reason for closing the account. I hope that Macy's gets the message from those of us who are loyal and die-hard fans of Marshall Field's. I love to spend money and shop! I'd rather do it at Marshall Field's, but Nordstrom will do for now.

Date: Fri, March 21, 2008  7:31 pm, CT
Posted by: PaulF

I think that fieldsfans should send a quick reply to the people at http://www.carnegiehall.org and let them know what we think about their new choice of honoree!

Mr. Lundgren can whip out checks to organizations probably as quickly as can Mr. Trump.

However, I don't think anyone will disagree that they are both men of equal taste and refinement.


Date: Fri, March 21, 2008  5:34 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Today's Sun-Times, as well as some other newswires, note that Terry J. Lundgren, CEO, Chair and President of Macy's, Inc., will be awarded a Carnigie Hall Medal of Excellence to recognize Macy's support of arts and culture including at the Chicago Symphony, the Joffrey and the Goodman Theatre as well as other cities.

You may comment on this to the Sun-Times by emailing letters@suntimes.com. It always helps our cause to offer your opinions.

Below are links to the Sun-Times blurb on this as well as a story at Fox Business.

http://www.suntimes.com/business/854597,CST-FIN-bbriefs21.article

http://www.foxbusiness.com/article/2fc-o-r-r-e-c-t-o-n-carnegie-hall2f_529870_1.html


Date: Fri, March 21, 2008  9:10 am, CT
Posted by: gle

I found this article amusing about how Messy's is doing extreme makeovers to "Loser Couples:"

"Macy's Helps Makeover Remaining Contestants on NBC's ``The Biggest Loser: Couples'' in Special Fashion Episode Airing Tuesday, March 18 (8-10 P.M. ET/PT)"

http://markets.chicagotribune.com/custom/tribune-interactive/html-story.asp?symb=M&siteid=chicagotribune&guid={F7431D74-C082-4A70-ACDE-6428FBBEA6DC}

And I enjoyed reading the posts several people made about Lord & Taylor's rebound. It would be great if Lord & Taylor would buy Messy's and give that a makeover--back into Field's.


Date: Fri, March 21, 2008  7:54 am, CT
Posted by: JasonM

There is a reference to Marshall Field's in the winner of the "Say No to Zell" contest by the SunTimes.

Can someone explain what they mean in the video?

http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/854555,CST-NWS-video21.article

Comment from Jim:
I take it you are referring to the piggy bank they show being smashed. The piggy bank has a Wrigley marquee drawn on the side except "Wrigley Field" is replaced with "Marshall Field". They jam some money in the piggy bank and then smash it with a baseball bat. I took it to mean they don't even want Wrigley renamed "Marshall Field". I'm not sure I get much more out of it. Thanks for bringing it to our attention.


Date: Fri, March 21, 2008  6:33 am, CT
Posted by: DamionKutaeff, Russia

Hello everybody, my name is Damion, and I'm glad to join your conmunity to bring back Field's, and wish to assit as far as possible.

Date: Thurs, March 20, 2008  9:37 pm, CT
Posted by: Bert

In regards to Casserine's post: I don't see where Craig claimed that Field's had a store at Ford City. His post alluded to the fact that Ford City and the other suburban malls caused a decline in downtown shopping.

Date: Thurs, March 20, 2008  8:53 pm, CT
Posted by: A Friend in the Northeast

Thought you Field fans would want to read this, as it mentions Marshall Field's:

http://www.lordandtaylor.com/gifts/pdf/press/3.15.08NYT.pdf

Date: Thurs, March 20, 2008  1:19 pm, CT
Posted by: Juan G

[Juan: If you have information, references or statistics to support your statement then your post will appear. Your email address doesn't work.]

Date: Thurs, March 20, 2008  10:13 am, CT
Posted by: Nina Gaspich

The other day I found myself taking a short-cut through Messy's on State St. and was appalled at their fur-coat display! Leaving aside the to-fur-or-not-to-fur issue...very expensive coats were limply displayed on hangers, out in the open, no apparent security tags or even a security guard (let alone a clerk) within visible distance! And on the main floor instead of a carefully guarded nook on an upper floor! Shoplifter's paradise, anyone?

Yet another "nutshell" example of why Marshall Field's must come back.


Date: Thurs, March 20, 2008  8:52 am, CT
Posted by: John D

More of the same at the m store with so-called star power. All show and no quality substance at all.

http://adage.com/article?article_id=125824


Date: Wed, March 19, 2008  7:46 pm, CT
Posted by: Drew

How tremendously "exciting" that macy*mart is announcing a new "celebrity" advertising campaign! In addition to the ever-popular Martha Stewart and Donald Trump, the new TV commericals are adding Carlos Santana and Mariah Carey.

http://biz.yahoo.com/ap/080319/oh_macy_s_ad_campaign.html?.v=1

Mariah was very hot in the 1990s and Santana was big in the 1980s. Guess "those wacky folks at macy*s" decided that these "celebrities" will work well with the 1990s fashion allure of Tommy Hilfiger.

Perhaps the advertising campaign will target Generation X with this theme: Remember the best years of your life are STILL at macy*mart. Someone said that the beauty salons at macy*mart are featuring "mullets" as part of the "magic of spring" promotion.


Date: Wed, March 19, 2008  2:51 pm, CT
Posted by: gle

Messy's has added more plants to "floranova." They are in the aisles, above the counters--everywhere you look. Some of them are rather nice, and too many of them have brown drying-up leaves. I noticed a few wilted flowers no-one had removed. There were also wilted flower petals on the carpet in the center aisle. The poor plants in the aisles are placed so it's impossible to get past without whacking dried-up leaves and damaging them further.

There are floral decals stuck all over everything.

If this abumdance of plants (both fresh and crumbling) and floral design is supposed to pay tribute to Latin American culture, one thing is lacking and that is an abundance of customers.

The Sears near has bi-lingual sales associates who are much nicer than the employees at Macy's. I go in there with my Field's button and they fall all over me asking me if I am finding what I want. I have NEVER seen anything in that Sears that looks like what Messy's is doing with "floranova."


Date: Wed, March 19, 2008  12:05 pm, CT
Posted by: Joe D

Well, the concept for Floranova sounds lovely, but Macy's has done a pathetic job advising the public about this strange celebration.

The Water Tower's window display just says "The Magic of Spring" yet the main entrance to the to the store was just redone for what I guess is Floranova. The walls and ceiling were painted bright kelly green, and there is a big bug hanging down from the ceiling. It's a strange sight! In the past, Field's would do window displays celebrating the theme throughout the store. Yet Macy's idea of welcoming shoppers is placing a big insect in the entrance. It's so wierd!

I miss Field's. Yesterday, I bought some Easter candy at Fannie May. As always, their customer service continues to be top notch!


Date: Mon, March 17, 2008  10:12 pm, CT
Posted by: Darrid

I looked at the plexiglas boxes again tonight at Woodfield. There is no correlation between the Floranova and these signs. Has anyone else seen them? Jimmy Gimbels?


Date: Mon, March 17, 2008  8:55 pm, CT
Posted by: B

Hi All

I also agree the L & T article is GREAT.

RIGHT NOW on Ebay an article is being offered for auction --

A Marshall Field full page Christmas advertisement --looks like it is from the 60's

At the top it says Marshall Field and Company in the elegant script.

at the top of the ad it says "The store of the Christmas Spirit"

Best of ALL is at the bottom it says

"Christmas just isn't Christmas without a day at Marshall Field's"

and as we all know ------

Isn't that the TRUTH!!!

Take Care all

B

italbearr@yahoo.com


Date: Mon, March 17, 2008  8:49 pm, CT
Posted by: Mrs. W

Oh how I miss not buying some Easter Baskets filled with chocolates from Marshall Field's. They always had some of the best selections to chose from over the years. I had a friend visiting State Street and said there were just piles of unsold Easter bunnies. Seems the Magic of Macy's doesn't sell in Chicago???? Hum... most of my friends in the rest of the country say the same thing...go figure!

Oh and by the way the flower show is less than spectacular...my office building has nicer flowers in the lobby than what Messy's has spent in State Street; but, what do you expect from State Street's Bargain Basement Bin, something spectacular, I don't think so....

Happy Easter everyone, I have to go out and pick up a few new items at Williams Sonoma and Crate and Barrel. Those two stores put the new Martha Stewart collection to shame. Glad Lord and Taylor is getting some good press. I sure hope they come back to State Street or Michigan Avenue soon.

Mrs. W


Date: Mon, March 17, 2008  7:55 pm, CT
Posted by: Lucy in Mpls

Hey,Field's (aka Dayton's & Hudson's) Fans!

Saw this video on the Strib here in the Twin Cities. Thought you might enjoy seeing how Messy's has destroyed the flower show. Dale Bachman looks visibly uncomfortable while discussing it.

http://www.startribune.com/video/16651456.html

BTW-Was watching Cities of the Underground on History channel tonight. They referenced the secret tunnels that are only accessible thru the 'Macy's' store on State St. Sigh! Although the Chicago historian always referred to it as Marshall Fields. Yay!

Take care everyone!

Lucy


Date: Mon, March 17, 2008  5:38 pm, CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels

Congrats to everyone at Lord and Taylor for a successful turn around! From the articles in the New York Times and Fortune Magazine, it seems to me that the L&T folks transformed themselves from a down market operation to more of a Marshall Field's operation. They carved out a niche in the marketplace. Gee, those wacky folks at Macy's said a store like that would never work...people would not shop it. That is why Macy's created a big yawn of a shopping experience from coast to coast. Zowie! I guess there is a market for department stores with quality merchandise and great service.

You know I love you Lord and Taylor, but I really want my Field's back.

Two weeks ago, JC Penney opened several new concept stores. Yes, Jimmy Gimbels was there! Beautiful store. Improved merchandise. Great service. Everyone is learning from the Marshall Field's game book except Macy's. May I suggest Lundgren and crew read "Give the Lady What She Wants" by Lloyd Wendt and Herman Kogan.

"To do the right thing, at the right time, in the right way; to do some things better than they were ever done before; to eliminate errors, to know both sides of the question, to be courteous, to be an example, to work for the love of the work, to anticipate requirements, to develop resources, to act from reason rather than rule, to be satisfied with nothing less than perfection."

- quote from "The Marshall Field and Company Idea" by Harry Selfridge (1894)


Date: Mon, March 17, 2008  12:34 pm, CT
Posted by: glenda f

I read the note about carrying the mesh Marshall Field's bag with pride.

Does anyone know when Field's first introduced the mesh shopping bag.

I have a real old one and I was just wondering how old it could be.

Thanks


Date: Mon, March 17, 2008  10:50 am, CT
Posted by: Casserine

To Craig B.

Marshall Field's never had a store in Ford City.

The mall had Wieboldts until 1987. That location later became Carson Pirie Scott in 1989.


Date: Mon, March 17, 2008  12:25 am, CT
Posted by: Matt

Hey Everyone, and greeting from San Francisco!

Has anyone noticed the 'Macy-mart," commercials, well.. probably not, but the travesty is that the set they're using is of course, the World's Largest and most Beautiful Store ever, Marchall Field and Company. I guess since the building is empty most of the time it's pretty easy for them to convert it to a set. Check them out on UTUBE, and be sure to express your distain. I know I feel better.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_wtYiGgM4OY&feature=related

BOYCOTT MACY'S!


Date: Sun, March 16, 2008  11:25 pm, CT
Posted by: Joe D

Hey Everyone, and greeting from San Francisco!

Has anyone noticed the 'Macy-mart," commercials, well.. probably not, but the travesty is that the set they're using is of course, the World's Largest and most Beautiful Store ever, Marchall Field and Company. I guess since the building is empty most of the time it's pretty easy for them to convert it to a set. Check them out on UTUBE, and be sure to express your distain. I know I feel better.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_wtYiGgM4OY&feature=related

BOYCOTT MACY'S!


Date: Sun, March 16, 2008  11:01 am, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

* Thanks to everyone who helped make our special St Patrick's Day Parade leafleting and button distribution a huge success--especially Gloria and Darrid. About 900 buttons and 1,600 leaflets were distributed on State Street and elsewhere. Moreover, it was very apparent that people everywhere ovewhelmingly want the return of Marshall Field's.

* Regarding Darrid's post from yesterday (and some others below), the theme for this year's flower show is "Flowernova"--a Latin American themed floral show. Now to be sure some of you wish this was a traditional spring or Easter-themed show, but it is Latin-American themed which probablyt explains the oranges and tropical plants and the occassional rose that people have spoken about about.

Darrid kindly provided me with a brouchure that Macy's has been distributing for Floranova. It leaves me with some questions. 1) It's great to have a celebration of culture as expressed by flowers, but why does the brouchure so heavily focus on marketing of products with little information about the actual plants and flowers? 2) I find the graphics and other materials promoting it to be a kind of caricature of authentic Latin American culture. Maybe someone can explain how they are authentic rather than simply a means to get attention with trendy graphics. 3) How can I accept Macy's promoting Latin American culture through flowers when all along they have disrespected Marshall Field's which was a major and very authentic aspect of Chicago culture? If they are going to honor cultures, how about starting by respecting a very significant part of our culture? As such, I find it hard to consider their other attempts (such as with Latin American culture and flowers) to be genuine.

* Today's Chicago Tribune had an article by Chris Jones on the front of the "Arts and Entertainment" section discussing the recent purchase of the Chicago Theatre by the parent company of Madison Square Garden. The Chicago Theatre is now owned and booked in NYC by the same party that owns and runs MSG, the WaMu theatre at MSG, Radio City and The Beacon. Jones tries to compare it to Terry Lundgren and the conversion of Field's to Macy's. I'm not sure I entirely buy all the points of Jones' article.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/stage/chi-0316_theatermar16,1,4083028.story

Date: Sat, March 15, 2008  11:14 pm, CT
Posted by: David

For Marshall Field's fans a heartbreaking, yet in some aspects heartwarming, article in today's (3/15/08) New York Times.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/15/business/15shop.html?ref=business

Our common understanding of the spiritual, ecomnomic and sensual gift that Marhsall Field's was to our community is alluded to several times and helps account for the revival of Lord & Taylor, while sheperded by a wise CEO and investor. Oh that we will graced by a similar stoke of good fortune!!!

The best of the luck of the Irish be with us!


Date: Sat, March 15, 2008  10:15 pm, CT
Posted by: drew

This excellent article about Lord & Taylor will warm the hearts of many on this cold late winter day:

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/15/business/15shop.html?_r=1&pagewanted=2&ref=business&oref=slogin

The author of this New York Times article states that shoppers are "rejecting coast-to-coast sameness" of macy*mart and Lord & Taylor has been well-received by former Marshall Field's customers. How great is that! The loss of Marshall Field's has been a major factor in Lord & Taylor's rebirth! Ms. Elfers of L & T is very blunt in her comments and the author of the article is totally honest in her assessment of "the magic of macy*mart."

Wonder how "those wacky folks at macy*s" reacted when they read this article in their own NEW YORK newspaper?


Date: Sat, March 15, 2008  9:34 pm, CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels

Jimmy Gimbels visited five - count 'em five - Macy stores (shudder)and needs to ask those wacky folks at Macy's, "What's up with that?"

- According to M-store press releases, customer service was job one for 2008. Then why do you have employees talking on their cell phones or text messaging when they are suppose to be working? That never happened at Field's.

- So you cut out a lot of food operations and have some candy counters left in a number of stores. But it is quite apparent you have done little training. Most employees behind the candy counter have no idea what is in those chocolates. Hint: When chocolates get that white haze, it means the chocolate was mishandled (either too hot or too cold). Time to throw them away! Field's folks always had great product knowledge.

- You made a big deal about adding carts to the housewares area. Well, where did they go? Your sales associates have no idea what happened to them. Of course, Field's fans are glad they are gone.

- And while we are in housewares, why is there no one who knows the selling points of the small appliances? Telling a customer to "just open the box and look and the instruction book" doesn't exactly win over people. Gosh, I miss the always-well-informed Field's sales associates.

- Can you tell me the reasoning behind your Spring decorations? The gain plastic dragonflies and beetles make the store look like a grade B horror movie. Did you really intend to scare small children with the giant bugs?

- Why are there three employees in men's cologne but only one person to cover men's shirts, accessories, shoes, slack and underwear?

- Why do you have "Field Gear" signs but no actual Field gear merchandise?

- Why don't you carry dress shirts with a 34/35 sleeve?

- What happened to your display staff? The windows are uninspired.

- Why all the empty shelves?

- Why are 45% of the price scanners unplugged or unable to determine a price?

I miss Field's. Not one penney will be spend at Macy's or Bloomingdales. It's off to Lord and Taylor I go.


Date: Sat, March 15, 2008  7:58 pm, CT
Posted by: Mark M

Thanks - and keep up the great work!

Mark
Chicago


Date: Sat, March 15, 2008  2:46 am, CT
Posted by: Darrid

Did anyone notice the other marketing blunder about Macy's "Magic of Spring"? Are these people stupid?

The stores have the box plexiglas advertising pieces all around the store filled with pictures of topiaries, oranges and roses. Now, the last I knew the rose was a summer flower. The topiaries were ok but the oranges? What the hell does that have to do with spring?

Little Peter Cottontail hopping down the "orange grove trail"?

What happened to tulips, irises, daffodils and crocuses? What happened to cute little kids finding Easter eggs? What happened to pastels?

Darrid

darrid@darrid.com

(Now In Chicago! Actually, Rolling Meadows 5 minutes from Woodfield)

:-)


Date: Fri, March 14, 2008  11:01 pm, CT
Posted by: Joe D

Check out the lovely article about Lord & Taylor!

Apparently, the boycott has been great for their business!

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/15/business/15shop.html?ref=business

It's too bad May Co sold out to Federated and didn't hire Jane Elfers to take the helm and fix the entire company.


Date: Fri, March 14, 2008  10:37 pm, CT
Posted by: James in Minneapolis

With both Easter and the Flower show here, I cannot help but remember this. One of my tasks each year, although it is a very fun one, is to get some chocolate rabbits for my mom, aunt, sister and brother-in-law to give them at Easter Brunch. In the past I always got them at the Nicollet Mall store Downtown. They always had a large array to choose from, but the best ones were always those that were "Marshall Field's" brand. Now these were not Frango; they were Marshall Field's chocolate rabbits. I don't really know if Chicagoland had these as they were actually made right in the Nicollet Mall store and this brand of chocolate seemed to only appear at Easter. It was the creamiest and richest----I really loved it.

The year that the 8th Floor Auditorium FLower Show had a theme of French Country Garden was really fun. There was a live horse up there and he really seemed to be enjoying all the attention for most of the time. When he tired of the crowd, he withdrew back inside his little stable area for some privacy for a few minutes but then came right back out a while later.

The chocolate rabbits that year were the best ever. They always came in multiple sizes to meet anyone's needs and budget. And they were very French that year to match the theme of the Flower Show. There were rabbits wearing berets; and my very favorite was a rabbit driving a race car, vintage 1925, all made of choclate. When I would tell people at my office about this, several of them asked me to take them there over lunch so they could get rabbits like this. And whenever I tell people about it now, frequently they seem somewhat wistful, knowing they indeed have missed something special and fun.

It was such a great, fun task to do every year. I looked forward to it. Now it's gone. When I was shopping at the new Brooks Brothers last weekend and cut through the store, I didn't look very thorougly, but I did not really see much Easter candy at all now. Back in the day, there would have been tables of the rabbits and also fancy chocolate eggs. I miss the rabbits actually---a lot.By the time I also bought a couple more for friends and maybe one for myself, that is another $60-70 I am not spending at macy's this week.

Regards.


Date: Fri, March 14, 2008  10:34 pm, CT
Posted by: drew

Unfortunately, this writer doesn't think that macy*mart's reliance on so-called celebrities is a sure fire winner:

http://www.cnbc.com/id/23613791/site/14081545?__source=yahoo%7Cheadline%7Cquote%7Ctext%7C&par=yahoo

Date: Fri, March 14, 2008  10:02 pm, CT
Posted by: dawn

Marshall Field's hmmm... I haven't been in there since [the store] took over... I still have 10 green boxes and 20 paper bags (sripes & clock) and I don't let anybody have them. So anyways I was watching "One Tree Hill" with my boyfriend. We realize that it takes place in a place in California (think so?) and on their way, they are at a mall meeting their friend at [the store] and it clearly says the name of [the store] 3 times, and it's CROWDED. i have a feeling that the creator of this show is sponsored with [the store] and that [the store] is fake. it is also shown that a 2 woman are holding white stared bags...its odd...i think that the people IN [the store] are actually directors and crew members...at an empty [the store] in california....

dawn


Date: Fri, March 14, 2008  9:27 pm, CT
Posted by: Jon C.

Here is an extremely complimentary article in Fortune Magazine, on Lord & Taylor's CEO, Jane Elfers' successful management of the retail company, since it was sold by macy's CEO, Pres and Chairman Terry Lundgren. Her "successful one-woman battle to keep Lord & Taylor Afloat"...(to quote Fortune)..."has resulted in L&T growing upscale and its fortunes have followed".

I had to chuckle at one remark of Ms. Elfers. She indicated that she had gotten rid of "tired" brands such as Tommy Hilfiger. Tommy Hilfiger---Hmmm...Isn't that the same 1980's Tommy Hilfiger brand that Mr. Lundgren issued a big press release on saying that macy's would build on Tommy Hilfiger as one of macy's premier, exclusive brands and pull in throngs of customers by the droves?!

http://money.cnn.com/2008/03/13/news/newsmakers/lord_taylor.fortune/?postversion=2008031321

Date: Fri, March 14, 2008  6:17 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Tomorrow is Chicago's St. Patrick's Day parade and Field's Fans will be out in force on State Street and the parade route distributing leaflets and buttons during this event celebrating both great ethnic and Chicago civic pride.

If you wish to assist, please email jjmckay@fieldsfanschicago.org by 8:45 am tomorrow morning (Satuday, March 14).

Marshall Field's and St. Patrick's Day: As Chicago as it gets!


Date: Fri, March 14, 2008  2:32 pm, CT
Posted by: gle

Messy's "floranova" has added another touch (or should I say whack) to State Street.

The black awnings are down. State Sreet is now saturated with very loud, tacky large-print floral plastic awnings. Matching flags are posted above up and down the State Street side. Windows follow the pattern. It looks like a garage sale for cheap patio decor.

I advise anyone who has to go to State Street to bring their sun glasses.


Date: Fri, March 14, 2008  6:39 am, CT
Posted by: Craig B

As I child growing up in the south suburbs in the 1960C-s, my fondest memories were when my Grandmother and my Mother would take me to Marshall Fields on State Street to see the mechanical Christmas decorations in the windows. I also marveled at the huge Christmas tree that rose up from the center of the store. I remember the Walnut room and the stainless steel escalators. I remember the elevators doors with the wire glass panels that exposed the cables. I know that the store was on the decline with the creation of Ford City and the various other suburban malls that popped up. But as a life long Cub Fan and former Chicagoland Resident, C,You need to send these Carpet Baggers back to New York and restore this great landmark to its former splendorC.!

CLB
Tidewater, VA


Date: Thurs, March 13, 2008  5:19 pm, CT
Posted by: James in Minneapolis

Hi All----

oh my. Today was the first day of FloraNova, the macy/s / Bachman's Flower show at Nicollet Mall Store. My office is on the edge of Downtown, so a Colleague who is a designer and I went Downtown for a late lunch about 1:30p. We ate first and then wondered thru Flora Nova on the way back to the car. You may recall from last year's postings that instead of the usual high-end extravaganza in the 8th Floor Auditorium as Dayton's and then Field's had done, it was moved to 1st Floor for Les Jardins Africains. There were several news articles about it preceding the opening last year and Dale Bachman, whose high-end family floral company here has been the partner on this endeavor for over 40 years, was quoted repeatedly about how he was in some conflict with the store about the temperatures needed to keep the flowers looking good for 2 weeks, etc. I felt bad for Dale Bachman becasue he has a stellar reputation in his field, even supplying the White House with poinsettias some years. However, I thought the event came off about as well as it could last year given the situation.

Not so this year. It has had a year to become macys. And it has become macy's. At first I hardly knew there was a flower show going on. The posts down the central aisle of the store had nothing. There were a few small displays around handbags. There were more elaborate things by cosmetics that were nice, but nothing spectacular at all. Certainly there was nothing at all to compare with what was in the 8th Floor Auditorium for 40++ years until last year.

And----there were no people. I mean---NO PEOPLE. My colleague and I were 2 of about 15 people looking at this sad remnant of the Dayton's-Bachman's Flower Show--- on OPENING DAY!! Back in the day there would be lines of people waiting to get into the Auditorium. Then those lines would move on to eat at the Oak Grill and the Sky Room on 12th Floor.

I am guessing it must be embarrassing as Hell for Dale Bachman to have his name associated with this now.

On a related topic, On Wednesday, I attended a meeting re: fundraising events for non-profits. One guy there made some statements like, "Now that macy's is completely irrelevant in Minneapolis, we have to come to grips with...." or "Remember, when working with Nordstrom, you will need to...., which is different than the Marshall Field's way."

Regards.


Date: Thurs, March 13, 2008  9:56 am, CT
Posted by: Field's Fan

Our protests in support of bringing back Field's continue to make news around the country.

This time our protests are mentioned within the context of today's Los Angeles Times article on the Wrigley Field naming-rights controversy.

http://www.latimes.com/news/printedition/asection/la-na-wrigley13mar13,1,4505101.story

Date: Wed, March 12, 2008  9:25 pm, CT
Posted by: B

Hi All

Joan Is Right -- the baked goods at State Street in Marketplace were wonderful! It was always fun to go down the escalator and see all the fun and tasty pastries and desserts that were waiting to be enjoyed or taken home. They were always well priced, of great portion and delicious -- and such wonderful things -- some old fasioned -- like "comfort" desserts-- 7 layer bars- lemon bars - incredible giant cupcakes with thick rich buttercream icing-- giant freshly baked cookies of all sorts-- cakes that were works of art-- big rich chocolate brownies, with and without nuts--- even great breads and rolls too.

I REALLY miss that !!

a few More Things gone

B

italbearr@yahoo.com


Date: Wed, March 12, 2008  6:19 pm, CT
Posted by: Doris Ray

Hello Fans,

More news from the Southern front:

A friend of mine (with no prompting from me I might add) expressed how disappointed he was with M. in Carbondale, Illinois. He was expecting to find an upscale store, something better than here in Paducah, KY, and all he had to say about the Carbondale store was that it is a high-priced Kmart. Someday my friends, someday they will see the light!

Over the weekend I attended the Broadway musical "Chicago" (National Touring Company) and wouldn't you know I had a seat next to two ladies from Chicago. They asked about my button, I gave them the quick version of what's happening and another button passed on. WE ARE EVERYWHERE--SO BEWARE!!!

Doris


Date: Wed, March 12, 2008  4:22 pm, CT
Posted by: gle

I remember a flower exhibit at Marshall Field's sometime in the 90's that was so beautiful that someone in my company e-mailed everyone in the office to go have a look. It was a breathtaking explosion of color. Field's knew just how to do it.

Well, since I had to walk past Randolph and State today, I checked out "Floranova" at Messy's. They have planters down the center aisle, so you get hit in the face with leaves. I noticed a few of those leaves are drying up and brown (and the opening isn't evwen until Fiday). The theme is supposed to be Latin American, but if it wasn't labeled that I would never guess. My overall impression is still a poor re-creation of the flower child era (and I was a hippie once and had no problem at all with Marshall Field's at that time).


Date: Wed, March 12, 2008  1:37 pm, CT
Posted by: George

Much has been said about the current state of the economy and its impact on the department store. I can't help but wonder how all of these companies survived the Great Depression.

Could it be that creative merchandising and focusing on what the customer needed or wanted helped? Come on, Macy's, a student who had one Marketing class in college should be able to figure this out.

Getting rid of employees, getting rid of merchandise, discontinuing maintenance, BUT going after business by passing out discount coupons is not what the customer wants.

Yes, there has been a downturn in the economy. Yes, some businesses will shrink or close. But it is most likely to be the business that is either financially over extended or has lost sight of their core customer--oh, yes, like Macy's!


Date: Wed, March 12, 2008  10:41 am, CT
Posted by: Dave K

I grew up down the street from the Marshall Field's in Oak Park. My friends and I liked to go there to play "hide and seek" when we were little kids (and little kids could run around Oak Park by themselves). I still remember the distinctive sights (green metal) and smells of the store inside.

Just before Field's closed, my father took my brother and I shopping at the Field's in Oakbrook, he needed some new undershirts or something like that, and then we were all going to get lunch. We were waiting in line to pay when one of us caught the eye of a clerk that was by herself in a different section of the store. We zoomed over there, thinking we'd skip the line, but she was so friendly and observant that she ended up selling each of us a pair of shoes!

I've never experienced these sorts of things at any Macy's, not even the one in Manhattan. In fact, the last time I went into Macy's, the salespeople were SO RUDE -- talking on their cell phones or to each other instead of helping us -- that I doubt I'll ever go back.

Bring back Field's!


Date: Wed, March 12, 2008  12:52 am, CT
Posted by: David

Yes Denise, I DID notice the mention of "Marshall Field's" in the Chicago Police/Mounted Horse piece at the end of the Chicago Trib Magazine.

And once again I sighed. This city has lost and deeply longs to regain a treasure of it's deepest roots. Corporate greed and misperception robbed us of it and it's hard to convince ourselves that these same lame brains will seek or recognize repentence, let alone that which would offer us all salvation. Do I hear an Easter theme?

If nothing else, don't they get that Chicagoans bought their Easter baskets at Marshall Field's? Let alone their Easter outfits? Today we're at Fannie Mae, House of Chocolates and even Hershey's for our sweets and anywhere but macy's for our threads.


Date: Tues, March 11, 2008  4:44 pm, CT
Posted by: Daniel W. Harcourt II

I stopped by Woodfield Mall last night. After stopping by one of my favorite stores, C.D. Peacock-which I highly recommend to anyone looking for high quality service and jewelery-I found myself walking through Macy's. Now mind you, I will never buy ANYTHING from Macy's or Bloomingdales, but I just wanted to walk thru what was once my absolute favorite store. It was so sad to see how empty the once busy Marshall Fields is now that Macy's has taken over. The uniqueness and warmth that was once housed in those walls is gone. It's very sad as I most likely would have bought something-had it still been Marshall Fields. Whether it was something for myself, or a gift for someone special, that dark green Marshall Fields box held the same power as the powder blue Tiffany Box-you just new it was something good! I can't tell you the number of times I walked in to Marshall Fields just to 'look around' and wound up purchasing a couple of hundred-or even thousand-dollars worth of merchandise.

I'm preparing to purchase my first home soon. So far, the only furniture I have is a formal dining room-which naturally was purchased at Marshall Field's Home Store. I'll still need to furnish the rest of my house-bedroom, living room, guest room and kitchen at bare minimum. If Marshall Field's were still around, there would be no question where I'd be buying the furnishings for those rooms. Oh well, I know that Macy's and Bloomingdale's competitors will gladly accept my money. The bottom line is quite simple. Macy's may control whether we have Marshall Fields, but I still control my wallet-as I know so many other Chicagoan's do as well.

It's terribly heartbreaking to see the former Marshall Fields stores not doing well, but Terry Lundgren forgot to pay attention to the advice he gave on the apprentice, 'What do you think the customer wants?'. Since Macy's and Bloomingdale's clearly don't care about what I, THE CUSTOMER, want I simply have no choice but to take my business elsewhere. And I know that I'm not alone. Chicago shops at Marshall Fields-not Macys.

Daniel W. Harcourt II
Schaumburg, IL


Date: Tues, March 11, 2008  4:44 pm, CT
Posted by: denise rule

did anyone else notice: in the Chicago Tribune Magazine of the Sunday, March 9th paper, the last page always has a 'flashback' to a certain year and a photo and few facts. This week was 1948, "So long, partner." the first line reads: 'YOU WOULD HAVE thought that the Loop was losing MARSHALL FIELD'S or something. When the CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT announced that it was eliminating the downtown mounted unit, the public reared up in protest.' and it goes on about the MOUNTED UNIT. then it says: 'The MOUNTED UNIT was reinstated in 1974 to patrol the parks and lakefront; still no sign of Field's returning.' and then there's more about the horses. by Nancy Watkins amazing how it's just everywhere, this abscence of Field's.

Date: Tues, March 11, 2008  11:13 am, CT
Posted by: Fred W

The Chicago Postcard Museum's Marshall Field exhibit is May and June of 2008. What a great website! Thanks for finding it. I've spent hours looking around.

Date: Tues, March 11, 2008  8:18 am, CT
Posted by: gle

The "Sun-Times" reader responses on what they want to see in Chicago's Loop has a plug for Marshall Field's:

"Readers share what they want to see open in the Loop"

http://www.suntimes.com/business/835730,CST-FIN-retailRESPONSE11WEB.article

Date: Mon, March 10, 2008  1:15 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim

Today's Sun-Times has a huge spread across the centerfold of the paper on the Fashion Incubator at Macy's.

http://www.suntimes.com/business/833951,CST-FIN-incubator10.article

As always, you can help Field's by writing letters@suntimes.com


Date: Mon, March 10, 2008  10:15 am, CT
Posted by: gle

The Sunday "Sun-Times" asked readers what they would like to see in downtown Chicago: stbusiness@suntimes.com. Obvously, I told them Marshall Field's and other nice quality businesses. The accompanying article can be found at http://www.suntimes.com/business/832852,CST-NWS-retail09.article "Retailers sold on the Loop."

Sunday's "Tribune" announced Messy's annual flower show, "Floranova," to open March 13 with a Latin American theme. The announcement starts in paragraph 5 of an article "What species will be the first to appear?" That must be what they were setting up when I went through there last Wednesday, and what I posted that looked like a tacky recreation of the flower child era.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/services/newspaper/printedition/sunday/home/chi-0309chipsmar09,0,1459244.story


Date: Sun, March 9, 2008  10:15 pm, CT
Posted by: drew

Has macy*mart cut back on advertising lately? After massive reductions in staff, merchandise quality and variety, store maintenance, services and amenities, very few macy*mart ads have appeared in the newspapers or on TV.

Cable stations like TNT have been running the laughable commercial featuring macy*mart's well-respected "celebrities"--Martha Stewart straightend her Kmart clone merchandise, Donald Trump drying his hair, Usher selling his cologne (which is now available everywhere), Jessica Simpson struggling to get in the door, Tommy Hilfiger strolling through his "exclusive" fashion collection.

Didn't this ad originally appear in August? It was a joke then, and it hasn't gotten any better with the passing of time. Guess that macy*mart's advertising is just as tired, boring, uninspired and forgettable as its stores.


Date: Sun, March 9, 2008  7:48 pm, CT
Posted by: S.B.

The Chicago Postcard Museum is having an exhibit about Marshall Field's & Company that will be on display in Summer 2008. It is a virtual museum that shows the history of Chicago through postcards. What a great idea.

Perhaps they would appreciate any postcards that anyone has here. Here is the website.

http://chicagopostcardmuseum.org/other_chicago_collections_LOBBY.html

If anyone has postcards we should share them with the museum!


Date: Sun, March 9, 2008  7:30 pm, CT
Posted by: JasonM

I dropped some out-of-town relatives off today at the Shedd and I couldn't help but remember that this institution was built the generosity of Marshall Field & Company.

I hope we get our world renown institution back - Marshall Field's was and will forever be Chicago. Macy's really made a mistake because every time people walk past 111 N State, go to the Field Museum, go to Waveland Cemetary... they will always remember Marshall Field's and how Macy's took away such a prized possession away from Chicago.

PS - Today a friend asked me if Macy's had any chocolates because he need to bring a gift to someone. I told him I wouldn't know b/c I had never been in a Macy's in the Midwest! He went to Whole Foods instead. Everyday is an opportunity to bring back Field's!


Date: Sun, March 9, 2008  6:51 pm, CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels

Hello Field's Fans!

So there I was, wandering through a local bazzar of locally made crafts and what should I see: A booth decorated with Marshall Field's shopping bags!

Why?

"Because everyone like the Marshall Field's. Everyone know Marshall Field's. Everyone stops to look at the shopping bags and they buy things from me."

Where can you see this display? Georgetown, Grand Cayman Islands!

Field's is known worldwide


Date: Sun, March 9, 2008  2:01 am, CT
Posted by: [jonrev]

I've got a paper model of a Marshall Field's delivery van now available for free download. All you have to do is cut it out, fold it, and glue it together.

http://www.freewebs.com/jlrev/Marshall%20Field%20&%20Company%20Delivery%20Van.bmp


Date: Sun, March 9, 2008  12:56 am, CT
Posted by: KMAJF

Macy's North Warehouse employees

My thought's and prayers are with you as the death of more family members pass.

It's rough out there to find a job bet keep your head up.

Miss you


Date: Sun, March 9, 2008  12:10 am, CT
Posted by: James in MInneapolis

Hi All----

I attended a charity fundraiser here this eve that has been going on annually for 17 years. Dayton's and then Marshall Field's has always been a major supporter of it, as the design industries are the major sponsor. I have not been going for about the last 6 years or so-----it just kind of got boring for me and my friends. Tonight, I went with a woman from my office and she and I decided we would just make it fun for ourselves.

As we might expect, Macy's had a presence as the heir of Dayton's/Marshall Field's philanthropy role in this city. However, I was somewhat surprised to see that now Nordstrom also had a table because with their only store being at the heinous Mall of America, they have not been that active here in Philanthopy. However, as more and more news articles point them out as "inheriting the market position once held by Dayton's and Marshall Field's," perhaps they are also stepping up their philanthropy presence. This may also be creating a greater visibility in anticipation of their 2nd store which will open at Ridgedale in the next 18 months. There were repeated mentions of Nordstrom from the stage throughout the event, but only one mention of macy's.

It certainly caused me to ponder that whole issue on my drive home. What kind of organization would squander away all that good will in our community here that the Dayton Family built up over decades, and just sit on the sidelines and watch their competitor come in and take it away from them? This is seemingly happening without a whimper from macy's. It's almost like they are glad to be done with it: "Here----you take the 'Good Citizen Crown.' It's too heavy for us."

Regards.


Date: Sat, March 8, 2008  4:24 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Some updates in today's and tomorrow's newspapers:

Sandra Jones' Saturday Retail news column has a bit about a virtual postcard musuem and its upcoming Marshall Field's exhibit:
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-sat-notebook-retailmar08,0,155581.story

The Saturday New York Times and its sister publication, The International Herald Tribune have a story about department stores and the exclusive deals that are being made with designers to help bring some attention to these stores. At one point, Terry Lundgren, head of Macy's, is asked to comment on JCPenney's new clothing line designed by Ralph Lauren. Mr. Lundgren replies, "no one has ever heard of that brand." It seemed a little ironic to this Field's fan, given how many of us feel about Macy's own house brands.
http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/03/09/style/fash.php?page=1

Then the Sunday Sun-Times has a story about all the exciting retailers that are making shoppers flock to State Street (with also some discussion of Michigan Avenue). Perhaps I'm reading it incorrectly, but the story comes across as pointing out a lot of massive vacancies that won't be filled so fast.
http://www.suntimes.com/business/832852,CST-NWS-retail09.article

Meanwhile, Tribune Sportswriter Mike Downey writes in the Sunday Tribune that Cubs fans' anger about the possible switch from the name "Wrigley Field" is out of line in the same sort of way that he thinks the switch from Field's to Macy's was just a name change.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/cs-080308-wrigley-naming-rights-downey,0,666085.column

As always, Field's Fans are encouraged to respond to the letters to the editor sections of these publications. For the Tribune, that's ctc-letter@tribune.com and the Sun-Times that's letters@suntimes.com


Date: Sat, March 8, 2008  12:36 pm, CT
Posted by: FieldsFan123

As the season of weddings, graduations, engagement parties, etc. approaches we need to remind friends and family that there are so many great registries out there.

Home Goods

Crate & Barrel

Bed Bath and Beyond

Target

Linens and Things

Carson's

Von Maur

Chicago's very own Crate and Barrel

General Merchandise

Target

JCPenney

Carson's

and many, many, more.

We can effect many people at once with just getting someone to pick a registry other than Macy's!


Date: Sat, March 8, 2008  9:18 am, CT
Posted by: Hugie

We need Amy Meadows now more than ever! Have you seen the windows on Wabash lately? Totally uninspired. Just a bunch of headless male mannequins in business suits advertising the magic of spring. But it did give me a big laugh: I thought, yeah, that's the magic of Macy's all right -- a bunch of suits who've lost their heads!

Date: Sat, March 8, 2008  12:16 am, CT
Posted by: JamesfromCa

Joan H is this the recipe for Field's potato salad?

http://www.grouprecipes.com/11057/daytons-bacon-tomato-and-potato-salad.html


Date: Sat, March 8, 2008  12:13 am, CT
Posted by: Uptown James

HI All---

So I go Downtown shopping today at the new Brooks Brothers because I need a new Spring argyle vest to wear to a charity event tomorrow eve and I had a 15% coupon good on every item in the store. Yes---you know---how coupons are supposed to work. Their modus operandi is to station a guy near the front door at all times when there is someone available, who is not already helping a customer. Therefore, I am immediately greeted when I walk in and asked if I need any assistance or would I prefer time to browse.The tan & red argyle vest I was interested in was on a mannequin right there and I had spotted it earlier in the week when I had passed by on my way back from the gym. The sales guy was kind enough to point out that there were lots of other argyle vests located in a few different areas and that I may want to at least look at those before I decide-----I was grateful for his guidance. I was browsing around. Then a guy I recognized who used to work at Field's popped over and said "Hi" and asked if I needed assistance. I browsed some more. While I was pondering 2 different vests in the corner by myself, one of the women from that side of the store popped over to see if anyone was helping me since I looked rather puzzled. We enjoyed a laugh together as I said I was only puzzled by the decision between the 2 vests, etc. She suggested that I take them both----after a couple of minutes of thought, I agreed that was a good idea.

I started a pile at the desk. Then I spied some linen pants and tried those on. Great fit and nice quality; reasonable price. Another guy popped by the dressing room to see if the size was OK or should he bring me a different size. I did ask if they also had them in Navy, which they did, so he brought those over. I had been trying to find some new navy linen pants for 2 summers to replace a very old pair from Field's which I ruined with a chemical spill. I thought I might as well take both pairs of those pants, too.

I found a couple accessory items on the way out and took those, too. I ended up spending $470.That would have just been a Field's purchase in the past----not even a second thought as to where I would go; no reason to go anywhere else. I would have gotten the same kind of service and found the same excellent products. I might have even just done the shopping with my guy at Select, in which case we would have been also laughing our way through the store, as we had known each other for years.

On my way back to the car, I cut thru macy's and decided to have some fun. I wanted to see if I could have accomplished this shopping trip in that store today. The short answer is "No." Here is the detail: I looked for a sales guy to ask about argyle vests. I kid you not----there was no one there at that exact moment to ask. No one in dress shirts/ties, no one in fragrance, no one in underwear/sleepwear, no one where the Field Gear shop used to be which now sells Club Room. I did see Club Room argyle vests there, but they were cheap & thin looking. Across the aisle I was startled to see that they pulled all the Calvin Klein stuff from the other end of the store and shoved it there. A young sales woman was strolling around in the CK area so I decided to ask her about argyle vests, just to see what response I got. When she spoke, it was clear that English was not her native language and she asked me what argyle was. I told her I was looking for a vest that had a diamond-shaped pattern on it. Even though Club Room argyle vests were right across the aisle, she said to me that she works in CK and they did not have any but that I should look in other areas of the store.I proceeded to Polo where I could hear some voices in the back but there was no one on the floor. I went across to Nautica/Hilfiger and there were some argyle long-sleeved sweaters but a quick glance thru the department did not reveal any vests. There were 3 sales guys there but they were all talking with each other behind the counter and no one looked at me nor did they say anything to me as I passed, so I decided it would be rude of me to interrupt with a merchandise question. I moved on to Young Men's and I thought I recalled that they used to put some of the Golf Brands over there. Apparently, when they moved Calvin Klein, they moved other things around, and while the Golf Brands probably offered argyle vests, I didn't really know where they were now.

By this time I had been in the store more than 20 minutes and not a single employee had said "hello". Compare that to Brooks Brothers where at that point, 3 employees had already asked if I needed assistance or if I preferred time to browse, and 1 had already planted the idea of me buying both vests----which I ultimately did.

The game stopped being fun so I stopped playing it. I used the bathroom at macy's and then left the store to return to my car. On my way out, I was struck by the fact that they have removed numerous racks and display tables so that the store appears quite empty. The lack of Spring product is incredible----particularly when compared to Brooks Brothers where I had just shopped.

I had dinner with my neighbor tonite and relayed all this to her. She responded that at least the Men's Floor at Nicollet Mall still looks somewhat like a sophisticated department store. Her opinion of the 3rd & 4th floors (women's) are that they "now look like a JC Penney out in an economically depressed rural area. The Census Bureau keeps listing Downtown Minneapolis as one of the most successful core cities in the US. If you enter that store, you would not know it."

Regards.


Date: Fri, March 7, 2008  7:20 pm, CT
Posted by: Sam

While analysts imply that it is not just Macy's that is having problems in this recession, the fact is a return to Marshall Field's is tremendously compelling to the Chicago-area shopper. Few things could reverse the decline of department stores in this economic environment, but if Field's came back as a store and not just a name, sales would shoot through the roof. Sadly for Macy's, I think the only way this would work would be for them to sell to someone else or have completely different people running the store as Field's rather than the current Macy's hacks.

The return of Field's would mean the return of profitability even in the face of the current economic downturn.


Date: Fri, March 7, 2008  7:07 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

As several have mentioned, the Tribune's Voice of the People has featured some comparisons between what happened when Macy's mothballed Field's and what could happen if Wrigley Field is renamed. One thing that is important to emphasize: our cause here is not just about what name is on the store. We are also fighting for having the store returned to a uniquely Chicago experience. What was Field's has been changed so much as Macy's that it would be comparable to altering Wrigley Field such that it no longer represents what was iconic about the ball park.

As noted below, what we ALL have accomplished collectively by our protests, button wearing, boycotts, petitioning, leafleting and more in support of the return of Field's is already making a difference in Chicago and elsewhere. Be it Wrigley, LaSalle Bank, White Hen Pantry, Jay's potato chips, other former May department stores and the like, people at these institutions have looked to us as examples in their own fights to at least get a better deal for employees or retirees or the community. We've made a difference. While these other causes look to us for inspiration and example, it is also important that we collectively remain focussed here on our primary goal of the return of Field's. Not every Field's fan is a Cubs fan, for example. At the same time, this issue has also helped to bring new and heightened awarenes of Field's. With that all in mind, we focus on these other issues like Wrigley, Jay's, other department stores, etc only within the context of bringing back Field's.

In admiration and respect for all you do to help to bring back Marshall Field's.

Jim


Date: Fri, March 7, 2008  10:53 am, CT
Posted by: James Miller

Reading recent comments regarding the effort to restore Marshall Field's as related to the selling of naming rights to Wrigley Field, I feel a need to comment. While the two things are not the same, they both represent a devotion to traditions which express what is wonderful and hopeful in Chicago.

Many Cubs fans have seen our expressions as a notice upon the leadership in question that quality and respect is not optional. This is what Fieldfans and Cubs fans have most in common. Making common cause between these two efforts makes sense and stands to benefit all concerned.

I think that people here may well consider reaching out to involve Cubs fans for added leverage while helping great Chicago traditions become reinvigorated.


Date: Fri, March 7, 2008  8:45 am, CT
Posted by: gle

The "Tribune" "Voice of the People" abounded with letters yesterday holding our protest up as an example of what will happen if anyone messes with the name of Wrigley Field. There is probably more to come.

Date: Fri, March 7, 2008  7:03 am, CT
Posted by: Missy

re: My experience in the Vernon Hills store:

I was not making fun of a serious medical condition. I was unaware of that. I was giving details of why the Field's experience was a lot different than what I'd been accustomed to in the past.

I did not treat her with disrespect - I had no interaction with her.


Date: Thurs, March 6, 2008  11:29 pm, CT
Posted by: Jack K

Jim McKay's comment about his Field's charge reminded me that my Field's charge was my second too , an oil company charge with the same account number after 40 years, which I know from memory. I also knew my Field's account number from memory, and on more than one occasion did not have the card with me, but was still able to charge since I knew the number. It was not a big deal to a Field's associate, they took care of their customers.

I also enjoyed the Tribune letters to the editor today, referencing reaction to Sam Zell's offer to sell naming rights to WRIGLEY FIELD, and how the reaction will be the same -- or worse -- as the Macy's debacle. A long letter submitted by the senior editor of Chicago Magazine recalled Cary Grant in North By Northwest, musing about changing back to a grey suit "in the Marshall Field's Window" and the writer's retort that it is a shame it is no longer possible.


Date: Thurs, March 6, 2008  10:48 pm, CT
Posted by: Daniel W. Harcourt II

Fieldsfans,

I have read several comments in this blog recently concerning Macy's announcement to discontinue their monthly sales reports. While I have to agree with almost all of the comments, there is something we all need to remember. Shareholders, individual or institutional, do not like having key information withheld from them. As such, I for one am very pleased with Macy's announcement as the time and location of their annual shareholder meeting-something required by law as a public corporation-should be announced very soon. As both a shareholder-and a VERY loyal Marshall Fields supporter-I plan not only to attend the meeting, but also to push for the return of our beloved Marshall Fields. I also want to thank Macy's senior management for showing their fear by discontinuing their monthly sales reports. They know that we're not buying-at least not their cheap merchandise. They can also probably tell from the stock transfer books that their stock is being bought-and they probably realize that it is being bought by the people who USED to spend money at the former Marshall Fields stores. We've got them scared, now its time to strike at their jugular. Chicago shops at Marshall Fields-not Macys!

Daniel W. Harcourt II
Schaumburg, IL


Date: Thurs, March 6, 2008  10:46 pm, CT
Posted by: Jeff D

Although the return of Field's has yet to be resolved with its return, your activities certainly are having an even greater impact than I bet you all anticipated. Congratulations on the success you've had already and will in the future. Wrigley Field will be retained thanks in part to all of your efforts with Marshall Field's.

Date: Thurs, March 6, 2008  10:01 pm, CT
Posted by: Anna

The Chicago Olympics 2016 commmittee will now be selling t-shirts and other related merchandise at its website. You will remember last year that many complained when you could only buy such goods at Macy's on State and at Water Tower. Why would we want to show the world that Chicago is the top place for the Olympics by buying our goods in support of it at a New York City store? And for 2016, Chicago needs its world class store back. That would be Marshall Field's. Not Macy's.

Date: Thurs, March 6, 2008  9:47 pm, CT
Posted by: Joan H

Does anyone remember the Marshall Field's Potato Salad? Everyone raved about it. It was made with sour cream. The recipe wasn't even included in the recent MF cookbook. All the long time employees have since gone so no one at the store knows about it.

Every week, I used to buy lots of baked goods there. And they had the delicious Yule Log mini-cakes every Christmas. I bought one the last year that the store was a Marshall Field's and it tasted like cardboard. The sales associate told me that they no longer make them in-store.

There were so many great things about Marshall Field's and so sad to see the store gone, especially since I frequently shopped there, not just for the holidays. I worked in the Loop and would stop by on my walk home. Since the takeover, the store seems so depressing.


Date: Thurs, March 6, 2008  9:15 pm, CT
Posted by: vernonhillsresident

This is in response to Missy 03/02/08 who referenced an employee at the jewelry counter wearing a head scarf at Macy's Hawthorn Center. Knowing this individual, I believe an apology should be promptly issued. She wears her scarf for medical reasons. As such, criticism is unfounded and inappropriate. Regardless of how you feel about any store, individuals deserve to be treated as you would like to be treated.

Thank you.


Date: Thurs, March 6, 2008  11:36 am, CT
Posted by: Susan

From today's Wall Street Journal-- Macy's ends monthly store reports

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120476282188615013.html

Yes, it seems to be a trend, but it if their news was great-- you would think they would continue.

At Macy's, informal discussions for months focused on the benefits of abandoning monthly disclosure of same-store sales. The operator of Macy's and Bloomingdale's stores has reported negative same-store sales for eight of the 12 months through Feb. 2, driving down its stock price. Executives at the Cincinnati-based company began debating that the obligation to report monthly same-store sales was a big distraction at a time when the company was suffering from the effects of its 2005 acquisition of hundreds of May Co. stores.


Date: Thurs, March 6, 2008  12:18 am, CT
Posted by: Brad

Baseball legend and former Chicago Cub Ernie Banks went on record with WBBM news with strong opposition to Sam Zell's plans to sell naming rights for Wrigley Field as did Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White.

Jesse White in his interview with WBBM went as far as to compare the loss of Chicago's well known Wrigley name from our historic Wrigley Field to the loss of Marshall Field's name from the stores that helped make Chicago the world-class city it is today.

Add our Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White's name to the list of Field's Fans who believe that the name IS important, despite Macy's claims to the contrary!

http://www.wbbm780.com/Ernie-Banks-Opposes-Plans-To-Sell-Wrigley/1754535

Here's an excerpt:

"Just as irate (as Ernie Banks) is Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White, who spent eight years in the Cubs' farm system and had "a cup of coffee" with the parent club.""

""It hurts me to my core," White said. "I believe Wrigley Field should remain Wrigley Field forever, just like Marshall Field's should remain Marshall Field's.""

"White called the proposed name change "ugly.""


Date: Wed, March 5, 2008  8:46 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

The story on page 2 of the Chicago Tribune's Red Eye edition reminded me of one of the very first times I used my Field's credit card--my first credit card (except for a gasoline card). I've written about this before but here is a slightly condensed version.

I had just graduated College and was shopping for a dress shirt to go with my suit when I interviewed. Short on cash, I planned to put it on my Field's charge. My size is a little odd so when Field's didn't have an exact perfect fit, the salesperson apologized--as if it was his fault--and was politely insistent thati a custom fit be tailored for me at no charge.

I have a feeling that Macy's wouldn't do the same and might view it as losing money. But when Field's did that for me, they gained my loyalty and years and dollars of subsequent business.


Date: Wed, March 5, 2008  5:05 pm, CT
Posted by: gle

Here is my weekly eyewitness account from the State Street store:

Somebody finally fixed the Randolph side clock. The out-of-order sign is off the Randolph door too, but the door still doesn't seem to work. On entering the busted door, you almost run smack into a bunch of fur coats 65% off (can't blame our weather isn't why they haven't sold).

There was something in "RedEye" today about a men's suit promotion "in the fourth floor suit department." Well, I walked off the central escalator on the fourth floor and what I saw was--a Starbucks counter, a bunch of neon-orange mannikins laying around, and a jungle of pastel, hippie-flowered attire that looked like it targeted young girls (and I don't know why even they would want it). There were no direction signs or any other evidence of the "Suit yourself" promotion in "RedEye." I checked the guy's department on the second floor, and saw--a digital-stuff vending machine, a bunch of gray plastic mannikins laying around, and no evidence of a special promotion or anyone looking for it.

Going back down the escalator, I noticed some people on ladders putting up a display on the lowest level that looked like a giant turkey draped in hippie flowers. Matching pastel-flowered banners hung from the atrium, and giant size pastel bugs dangled over the fountain on the main floor.

Pardon our appearance signs are in most of the windows again.

So much for Messy's magic of spring. Bring back Field's and keep Wrigley Field too!


Date: Wed, March 5, 2008  4:36 pm, CT
Posted by: George Miller

This past weekend I was in the Men's Department at the State Street store, and overheard a very interesting exchange.

It seems that a customer had a suit that he had purchased at Field's and it needed to be altered. The salesperson told him that they couldn't do the needed alternations because it had not been purchased at Macy's.

When the customer objected, the salesperson said, "Well, Marshall Field's used to do a lot of things, but it is not Macy's policy . . ."

It is so sad they seem so intent on imposing their business model on this market, that they would rather destroy the business than to give the customer what he or she wants!


Date: Wed, March 5, 2008  4:28 pm, CT
Posted by: denise rule

the c.d. peacock billboard showing a bust of Marshall Field and saying: 'Marshall Field shopped here' is still up on I294 south, just south of the O'Hare oasis, a couple miles north of the exit to the eisenhower. it's been up for quite a while now....pre-holidays.

Date: Wed, March 5, 2008  12:31 pm, CT
Posted by: Jack K

As first suggested here back at the holidays, I'd like to suggest that we Field's Fans patronize CD PEACOCK and let them know it is because of their classy support of our movement. At the least a thank you note to their Corp offices would go a long way to letting them know how we feel. I handed out several pins at Peacock Northbrook a few weeks ago and told the mgr THANKS!!!

Was in PVD last Fall. The have a very classy center there on the order of North Bridge/ Michigan Ave. and I agree M drags it down.

Jack


Date: Wed, March 5, 2008  10:39 am, CT
Posted by: Gayle

Hi Denise,

Although Sephora doesn't carry the Estee Lauder name, they do carry a few Estee Lauder brands, including Clinique and Stila. Maybe they will start to carry more as business goes downhill at the M store! ;-)

If not, Carson's is a great choice.

I had a wonderful experience at Carson's this past weekend. They were selling coupon books for $5.00, with all proceeds going to charity. (to me this contrasts with Macy's !) In the coupon book, you got a ten dollar coupon that was good on almost everything except cosmetics and fragrance, and eight 20% off coupons. Hubby and I bought a ton of stuff, but the sale prices were so good it didn't cost much money.

Next, I spotted a Cuisinart appliance that I wanted that was 50% off normal retail. They appeared to be out of stock, but the helpful and pleasant sales associate spent a great deal of time searching the stockroom because the computer said they had one left. When she couldn't find it, she offered to call another store for me. We located one at a nearby store, and they held it for me. When I went to that store to pick it up, they were also friendly and helpful, and ended up selling me even more stuff.

Although Carson's isn't Field's and will never be an exact replacement, they have earned my respect and approval, and I'm definitely going to continue spending some cash there.

Now if only Field's would return......


Date: Tues, March 4, 2008  8:41 pm, CT
Posted by: S.B.

Remember the CD Peacock ad that was on the expressway? Well there is now a prominent in North Bridge (the Nordstrom mall on Michigan Ave). I've seen the ad riding the bus on Michigan Ave! It faces the thousands of people that walk Michigan Ave everyday. Macy's can do absolutely nothing about it when it comes to trademark infringement/legal action/injunction etc. because Marshall Field (the man) really shopped at CD Peacock! I'm guessing this was before Field's sold jewelry himself.

Retailers, customers, analyst, vendors, fashion experts, city-dwellers, suburbanites, people in the country, kids, adults, mothers, fathers, friends, family --- ALL WANT MARSHALL FIELD'S!


Date: Tues, March 4, 2008  3:30 pm, CT
Posted by: gle

t looks like Field's Fans have become an inspiration to a new cause. See today's "Tribune" "Voice of the People:"

"Macy's Field"

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/letters/chi-080304name_briefs,0,4601666.story

Date: Tues, March 4, 2008  2:42 pm, CT
Posted by: Ken Allan

I just had to pass on this latest observation from a walk through a Macy's.

This past Sunday I was in Providence, Rhode Island, and we parked at the Providence Place Mall. This mall is very impressive, and it was PACKED on this given Sunday.

In any location where you have a Nordstrom, the Macy's store is going to look second rate, however being that this particular Macy's was opened as a Filene's, it has a classier look than most of the newer Macy's "legacy" stores. Clearly, Filene's planned the store to give the 1st floor the look of a classic American department store, with high ceilings and red carpeting.

That said, here is Macy's-Mart latest downgrade in service. This particluar location is a large 3 floor store with all home deparments including furniture. Yet, I noticed one of the directional signs was missing one line, then I found out why. A large sign placed in the China and Crystal area stated that the Gift Wrap Desk was discontinued effective February 16. It further sated that a "exciting" new, American Greetings Shop will open in it's place, and it will provide for limited Gift Wrapping only for Star Rewards members when it opens in May.

Way (NOT) to go Macy's

Has this been happening elesware in the Macy's Nation ?????

(I'm sure it has and watch out for more)

Shoppers at this mall can take heart, Nordstrom now has a Home Department.

Ken


Date: Mon, March 3, 2008  9:50 pm, CT
Posted by: Brad

Here's an excerpt from a business news story that shows yet another example of the "exciting enhancements" that affect communities throughout the region as a result of Macy's decision to eliminate Marshall Field's and other May Company stores:

"The Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development's Dislocated Worker Program will offer assistance to 950 Macy's employees in Minneapolis that are affected by the company's recently announced decision to consolidate three divisions."

"Rapid response efforts are underway to help Macy's employees make the transition to other suitable employment," said Department of Employment and Economic Development (DEED) Commissioner Dan McElroy."

http://www.insightnews.com/business.asp?mode=display&articleID=3987

Prior to Macy's aggressive and misguided national expansion plan, Marshall Field's was profitable and growing without the need to fire thousands of employees and without the need to subtract a $150 million tax settlement and more than $100 million in "integration costs" associated with Macy's replacement of Chicago's iconic Marshall Field's brand.

We've read about how many other states have born the expense of retraining and finding jobs for thousands of workers fired by Macy's and now we can add Minnesota to the list. Remember that since these programs are funded by state AND federal funds, which means that we ALL pay for this through our federal taxes!

Still, Macy's blames the need to consolidate, downgrade, fire employees and close stores they blame it on everything from the weather to the marketplace - yet somehow the stores in Field's high-end category don't need to do any of these things to outperform Macy's. Even Target and other mid-tier discount stores in Macy's category have outperformed Macy's ever since they eliminated and replaced Marshall Field's.

There's one sure way to reverse Macy's downward spiral - bring back the excitement of Chicago's world-class destination department store and give us a store we can once again be proud to call our own.


Date: Mon, March 3, 2008  7:34 pm, CT
Posted by: Amy Squires

Hi everyone -

I'm trying to find out what year the flower shows started at the State St. store - any idea?

Much thanks,

Amy Squires


Date: Mon, March 3, 2008  12:05 pm, CT
Posted by: Rich W

I was out at Woodfield this past Friday night (I spent a lot of money at Lord & Taylor) and I noticed an interesting phenomenon: the few people that had red star cheap plastic bags usually also had JC Penney and/or Sears bags. Those who had Nordstrom shopping bags also had Lord & Taylor bags. No one I saw had a red star bag with a Nordstrom or L&T bag. Clearly the switch has been from upper end to middle of the tier merchandise.

Date: Mon, March 3, 2008  9:33 am, CT
Posted by: Robert

From Wikipedia's entry on Marshall Field's s State Street store (speaking of the renovation). Is it really true that the State Street store was losing money that badly prior to Macy's takeover? I find this very hard to believe.

"Selfridges was founded by a former Field's executive Harry Selfridge who based his business model on Marshall Field's. The Selfridge's building in London was based on the architecture of the Marshall Field's store. This change did not ignite sales as hoped, and Macy's had to take the store in a new direction as it produced a paltry $200 million in sales during its last year in 2005. Macy's flagships produce almost that much each December alone."

__________________________________________

Response from Jim McKay:

Wikipedia entries can be editted pretty much by anyone on the net. If you look, Wikipedia has some relaibility questions about that part. I don't even entirely agree with some of the information presented that is favorable to our cause. In the case of profitability, there are a lot of questions. Macy's doesn't break out sales figures by store and doesn't always come clean in how they arrive at stats--that could be said also for when Field's was owned by Target/Dayton-Hudson and May. Someone a while back posted an excellent analysis here based on stats prsented in the Tribune in recent years. Whatever the case, some very critical questions are 1) how much profit did the flagship influence at OTHER Field's locations? 2) Wouldn't a revived Field's be a huge draw? and 3) What if the money spent on converting Field's to Macy's had been spent on building Field's as a brand?

Date: Sun, March 2, 2008  9:57 pm, CT
Posted by: Joe D

Hi Everyone!

When I was at the Gym earlier today, I noticed a woman flipping through a fashion magazine while on the treadmill. I could see her perusing a very classy spread of ads that all had the Lord & Taylor script at the bottom.

It's somewhat ironic. L&T does not have very many stores anymore, but they have the brains to put together a sophisticated high end marketing campaign. Sadly, that was something Field's excelled at at.

Oh well, to gear up for spring we get to have "the magic of spring commercials." I miss Field's in the spring!


Date: Sun, March 2, 2008  9:17 pm, CT
Posted by: Missy

Wow - what an experience. I went into the Vernon HIlls store a few days ago - first I'd been there in ages.

Jewelry selection, my first stop, was pathetic. Most of the displays in all areas of merchandise is "Charter Club" so I guess that must be their private label.

Next stop, another past favorite - women's fragrances. Asked about the older woman who I had known from there for years. Told she's been gone (retired) since last September. Selection at fragrance counter underwhelming.

Recognized a gal at one counter in the store as a former Field's employee. She said that their compensation plan had been changed a lot. She was guarded.

Next stop, purses. 2 women standing at the counter watching me walk through the department, talking behind their hands, never offered to help, nor made a move toward me.

Went downstairs and when I remembered I needed a manual can opener, thought I'd buy it, so picked it up. Didn't see anybody there to ring it up, so went over to the Marketplace. What a disappointment! There was a sign thanking customers for their support through the years, and the area is now the candy counter. Waited there for awhile, no employee there - finally left without purchasing the can opener.

What a travesty. I still have my most recent Fields charge card; lots of memories from happier shopping times - I love seeing that little line at the bottom: that I've been a card holder since 1985.

One can dream......


Date: Sun, March 2, 2008  10:43 am, CT
Posted by: denise rule

to drew: maybe this has already been answered, but, it is my understanding that SEPHORA carries no ESTEE LAUDER products. i suggest Carson's. (or whatever store might have one of their 'give-away' promotions at any time).

Date: Sun, March 2, 2008  10:08 am, CT
Posted by: David

My partner who works at Old Orchard says Macy's there is virtually empty: "Nobody want to shop at a former high end store (Marshall Field's, now macy's) for medium-to-low end goods."

On another note, a mannequin from the Nordstrom's tailor shop has been named by their Russian tailors: "Masha", recently ammended to "Masha Field's". They too admit to deeply missing her. (Perhaps a tribute to Zelda's "Marsha")


Date: Sat, March 1, 2008  9:49 pm, CT
Posted by: James in MInneapolis

I finally got around to reading this morning's Star Tribune here and read in the business section about a piece of good news for Downtown Minneapolis: a Danish medical technology firm, Coloplast, starts construction next week of its North American headquarters along the river just outside of Downtown. Some of our riverfront is really great with nice condos and the new home of the Tyrone Guthrie Repertory Theater, while some of the riverfront is really rundown looking with heavy industry and scrapyards. These buildings being put up by Coloplast are in fact in some of the not-so-great areas so that will be a much needed boost for us.

The artist's renderings of the buildings are very nice and the descriptions of them are really exciting. One of the reasons they chose the Twin Cities and then further chose to be in the City was they wanted to be close to the University of Minnesota Campus, due to all the medical innovation that goes on there.

So after I read all this, I am thinking that this is the kind of stuff that makes one proud of their city; that it's really cool that the Danes are coming here. This will be good for our city. Back in the day, there would have been a full-page ad in the Star Trib from Dayton's/Field's welcoming the Danes to Downtown with some clever ad copy.And you guessed it----one of the very next thoughts is, "Too bad we lost one of the very best reasons to be proud of our cities in the Midwest."

I was Downtown today at the gym and needed to do a little shopping afterwards so I went to the new Len Druskin Men's Store, then had lunch, then hit up Cole Haan in the same building. Both stores are just very nicely appointed and managed/staffed. It was really fun in the Skyways today as there was a charity event where different businesses each sponsored a hole in a brilliantly designed miniature golf course, which all took place within the Skyway system----very cool. That certainly raised my spirits as I walked along back to my car as well---that all these large corporations that are headquartered here bothered to spend time and energy designing these fabulous miniature golf course holes for the benefit of charity.

Then I had to walk through macy's to get back to my car.What a downer that was that quickly extinguished my euphoria. I was on Skyway level so I was in the Men's Departments. Music was blaring everywhere, as though I was in cosmetics..LOL. When I walked by the Young Men's area where jeans and T-shirts are sold, there were several piles of clothes rumpled up on the floor. I glanced at some cheesy-looking "Field Gear" spring rain jackets: $99 marked down to $39. Piles of Club Room winter wool scarves were still there for 40% off; lots of Alfani winter wool coats, too. Gawd, the merchandise was horrid. The only person who made eye contact and said "Hello" was a really cool young woman who works at a partner business, Sunglass Hut, with whom I always compare our eyewear frames. She is really fun, nice, humorous and she also knows what she is doing.

Regards.


Date: Sat, March 1, 2008  3:50 pm, CT
Posted by: Doris Ray

The clock on the once great Marshall Field's says it all: IT'S TIME FOR A CHANGE!


Date: Sat, March 1, 2008  1:43 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Today's Chicago Tribune has an answer of sorts for those wondering about Macy's discontinuation of monthly sales reports. Sandra Jones' column points out that Sears, Home Depot, CVS and others also have discontinued monthly reports. Check out the link below for the full story but one position is that these reports don't really give accurate trends. Another position is that these retailers are having problems and clearly they don't want to bring that to the public's attention.

As always, you are encouraged to write a letter to the editor -- in this case ctc-TribLetter@tribune.com. Posting a Topix helps too but please write the editor.

The article can be found at:
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-sat-notebook-retail-0301mar01,1,3941523.story

In addition to Starbuck's being part of Field's, it should be pointed out for the record that Field's sold limited amounts of Martha Stewart merchandise--this was started before Macy's purchased Field's. That said, it's not that these sellers are in these stores is bad. What's bad is that they are supplanting what we love best about these stores. What was unique is being replaced exclusively by the ubiquitous.


Date: Sat, March 1, 2008  12:03 pm, CT
Posted by: Joe

I do enjoy reading Jimmy's comments. However at times the information is not correct. Marshall Field's State Street and Oak Brook had Starbucks in them long before Macy's took over our great icon. I am not a fan of Macy's, but Marshall Field's had partnered with Starbucks long ago. Keep up the good work Jimmy.

Joe


Date: Sat, March 1, 2008  11:36 am, CT
Posted by: S.B.

his whole experience has really made me appreciate companies who really "win" in the marketplace by making products for people and selling them in an amazing environment. I have so much respect for places like Potbelly's, the Apple Store, Nordstrom, Von Maur, Cheesecake Factory, and the like. These places compete by creating great products, having amazing customer service, and provide an amazing shopping/dinning experience. They're less concerned about cost-cutting, fooling customers with fake products/brands/coupons/etc., real estate acquisitions, and the like.

Hats off to all the amazing retailers!


Date: Sat, March 1, 2008  11:10 am, CT
Posted by: donna m

I have just come from my favorite JC Penney's store, West County Mall in St. Louis. This is my Macy's substitute.

They are now carrying a line American Living by Ralph Lauren. The nice sales clerk told me it is excluvsive to them. There are also home products. Penney's Way to Shop.

I have reading all of your posts with interest. People around here want Macy's to go home. They had enough damage to St. Louis.


Date: Sat, March 1, 2008  6:43 am, CT
Posted by: mds in mt. prospect

I am writing in response to Jimmy Gimbel's recent posting regarding the installation of Starbucks inside various former Marshall Field's locations. I think you are failing to see the forest for the trees my friend. If you take a step back, you will see that those wacky folks at macy's are trying to do the city of Chicago a favor by concentrating all of the overpriced, underperforming, non-Chicago businesses inside one convenient location so there are fewer places that we have to avoid as we go to McDonald's for our coffee and Sears for our clothing. It's only too bad that those crazy people at macy's felt that they had to take over Marshall Field's to execute their strategy when renting out space to Starbuck's at their Bloomingdale outlets would have been much more cost efficient.

Date: Sat, March 1, 2008  1:41 am, CT
Posted by: Marc-Boston

"What's next, A Pizza Hut Express and a Cinnabon? Maybe one of those Auntie Annie Pretzel stores?"

Dining at Macy's Herald Square (this isn't a joke... )

Cellar - Cucina (part of the Patina Restaurant chain)

1st Floor - Au Bon Pain

3rd Floor - Starbucks

4th Floor - Auntie Anne's Pretzels, Ben & Jerry's, Jimmy's Pizza

7th Floor - McDonalds

8th Floor - Au Bon Pain

Welcome to the wonderful world of Macy's, where we make cookie cutter magic.

Ugh.


Date: Fri, February 29, 2008  7:25 pm, CT
Posted by: What Macy's has to offer you!

Before I go into the "What Macy's has to offer you!" I have to tell you a story...

--I was at my kid's thing for Church and then there was like old paper from 2006. As I saw some of these papers, I found a FOLEY'S piece paper [As you can tell, I live in Texas] and I saw all the great deals! Mini Wallets and Purses $9.99! and Golf Jackets? $54.99 unlike Macy's with Mini Wallets $74 and Golf Jackets $129..or something like that

Thank you guys

Fashionsita Chicx3


Date: Fri, February 29, 2008  7:15 pm, CT
Posted by: S.

If ever the City of Chicago needed to use its powers of eminent domain or some sort of action to make change, it's now. Is there any disagreement that the former Marshall Field's store on State Street is nowhere near serving our city as could be? The famous clock may not give the correct time, but it surely indicates that it is time for Chicago to work to get a new party running the store (and obtain the name Marshall Field's) so that it is run by reputable retailer like Harrod's, Bergdorf Goodman, Lord & Taylor, anyone, that actually is concerned about our community and what good (public and private) such a gem could bring both to the city as well as the owners' bottom line. That would be anyone but Macy's. Everyday that goes by costs Chicago lost tax revenues, costs Illinois lost income tax revenues and robs all of us the Midwest part of our cultural identity. It's time for City Hall to get serious and put forth the same effort to find a better steward of Field's s it does to keep out Wal-Mart.

Date: Fri, February 29, 2008  6:04 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim

Every now and then, I receive a message from someone who says either Field's (or State Street) was not breaking even or was losing money or was not making as much money as it should have been or its profits were not increasing as fast as Wall Street expected.

For these people, I ask these questions: I never get a reply.

1) State Street was a flagship store. It's a fact that more than a few Michigan Avenue flagship shops for other brands lose money as individual locations themselves, but do in fact generate buzz--and profit-- for other locations. If it weren't for Field's State Street placed firmly in my mind, I can't otherwise imagine that I would be shopping Water Tower, Oak Brook or Woodfield Field's nearly as often. I shopped those stores because it was the next best thing to State St.

How did Target, May and other owners account for the sales State Street effectively generated generated at other satellite locations?

2) With State Street gone as Macy's for 17 months now, and probably at least a couple of years, upon it's return don't you agree there would be a flood of people wanting to welcome it back and bring it more business than ever?

3) If Macy's took the kind of money they spent forcing Macy's on Field's customers and instead spent it on promoting and building the Field's brand, Don't you think it is clear Field's would be doing amazing business, much more than as Macy's. As Macy's, it's clear business at these former Field's stores in the Chicago area are doing relatively much less business. What are your comments?


Date: Fri, February 29, 2008  12:30 pm, CT
Posted by: Brad

There is a very detailed article about Macy's published in the Feb. 7 issue of WWD (Women's Wear Daily) after Macy's announced the regional downsizing. Lundgren is interviewed and Macy's financial struggles and plans for the future are discussed. It's well worth reading. Here's the lead paragraph:

"Macy's Inc. will downsize from seven to four regional operations, eliminating 2,550 positions from buyers to back-office workers and senior officials, as it struggles with a tough sales climate and ongoing challenges related to its acquisition of May Department Stores."

http://www.wwd.com/retail/article/122391


Date: Fri, February 29, 2008  9:44 am, CT
Posted by: Jeremy and Max

We've hated the red star store ever since it came to Chicago, and especially that stupid red star logo, which reminds us of Communism. Now, with Macy's refusing to publish monthly and quarterly reports, they are taking the Communist metaphor a step further. If you don't tell the public what's going on, then they won't know how bad things are. Oh, how they underestimate us. All you have to do is walk through one of their sad sad stores and compare it to surrounding stores. What you see is how it is. In less than two years, a retailing icon has been downsized, downgraded, dirtied, bug-infested, and now, with the cessation of sales reporting, add "silently slipping" to the list of degradations. We see you and know who you are, red star stores, and you too will go the way of the Berlin Wall.

Date: Fri, February 29, 2008  9:37 am, CT
Posted by: Marianne

Amy Meadows, we need you and your capable crew more than ever! Have you looked at the windows of the former Marshall Field's on State Street lately? Dull and uninspiring -- where is the so-called magic? And to top it all off, THREE of the store windows on Randolph Street are now advertising billboards, two for a car and one for oatmeal! These people have not only trashed our stores, they are trashing our landmark. It's an embarrassment for us all.

Date: Fri, February 29, 2008  8:06 am, CT
Posted by: Mitch

There you have it. Macy's has the same contempt for their investors as they have for their customers. Perhaps they'll start offering their stock with a phoney designer name.

Mitch


Date: Thurs, February 28, 2008  6:20 pm, CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels

Marketplace cafes and other food services at Macy's were shuttered a few weeks ago and employees were fired.

Why you ask?

So those wacky folks at Macy's could open Starbucks in selected stores! Honest. Watch for another ubiquitous Starbucks soon to open at Woodfield. Ah, the magic of Macy's at work again.

What's next? A Pizza Hut Express and a Cinnabon? Maybe one of those Auntie Annie Pretzel stores?

Like I always say, "If it's classy, it ain't at Macy's."

I want my Marshall Field's. Please.


Date: Thurs, February 28, 2008  6:19 pm, CT
Posted by: Sylvia Suarez

I was just at the Old Orchard Store...dead as usual. However, I did notice that they are opening a brand new restaurant in Macy's. It's another location of the Frontera Fresco that they have downtown in the 7th floor food area. I spoke with one of the managers and mentioned that I heard Macy's was closing most of the food operations and was surprised to see a brand new restaurant opening. He said that they are still opening new restaurants. It's actually very nice, though I still won't eat there because it's located in the Macys's store!!! One of the sales consultants told me that he's lucky if he sells $100 a day in his clothing department!

Date: Thurs, February 28, 2008  6:11 pm, CT
Posted by: Mike P

I have an idea....

For MacyMart shareholders who might be planning to attend the Shareholders meeting, see about creating and collecting data on a similar type of survey that MacyMart claims to have done....ask the very question of "Does the nameplate matter" among other questions...and present your findings at the shareholders meeting.

No way can they ignore the facts then......

Mike P
Chicago, IL


Date: Thurs, February 28, 2008  5:33 pm, CT
Posted by: field's fan

Tuesday's conference call with Macy's CFO can be heard via the internet at:

http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-webcasts

Date: Thurs, February 28, 2008  12:25 pm, CT
Posted by: PaulF

http://www.thestreet.com/_yahoo/newsanalysis/media/10405232.html?cm_ven=YAHOO&cm_cat=FREE&cm_ite=NA

Honestly, this news article on Macy's recent action is so damning, so unreal for a publicly traded retailer, that I think it deserves a fuller presentation:

"The Business Press Maven has only one piece of advice for what to do when a company stops offering monthly sales numbers and quarterly guidance: Drop everything, leave the campfire burning and run for the hills. There are thousands of public companies that try to make information public. There is no use bothering with one that doesn't.

"And so it is so curious -- not to mention deplorable -- that the business media has barely mentioned that Macy's (M - Cramer's Take - Stockpickr) is now mum.

"The company reported yesterday. Profits were a few pennies better than expected, despite gruesome sales and other numbers. It is closing stores, firing employees and doing all the other stuff struggling companies do when times are uncertain.

"But Macy's -- and this is a central development -- announced yesterday on a conference call that it no longer will report monthly sales number, which is all but de rigueur for public retailers. The company had previously said it would wash its hands of any responsibility to give earnings guidance. In other words: In uncertain times, it sees fit to add to investor uncertainty. In spades.

"Look at how the company's CFO, Karen Hoguet, made the announcement on the conference call -- presumably before hiding under her desk. She used the kind of doublespeak you'd expect to hear when a public company decides to effectively not be public anymore. We're moving on to 2008, but not talking about 2008. Our move can be interpreted by reasonable souls as a skeevy clam-up, but don't trust your better instincts. We are actually being more open ... even as we clam up.

"Said Hoguet:

"'Let's move on now to 2008. But before I talk about our outlook, I want to make sure that all notice that we are no longer going to report monthly sales. This combined with not providing quarterly guidance could be misconstrued as trying to cut back on the information that we are providing to investors. That is not the intent. In fact, our hope is that you will find the information we do provide going forward will be just as meaningful in helping you to effectively judge our performance and our outlook for the future.'

"You would be crazy to be involved in such a murky situation when most public companies, even struggling ones, try to be open, right? This is a central development for Macy's shareholders, right?

The answers seem obvious to me, but not to the business media.

"Bloomberg ran this headline, favorably comparing Macy's to Target(TGT - Cramer's Take - Stockpickr): "Profit Rises at Macy's and Falls at Target"

"The tidbits about monthly sales numbers and lack of guidance? Not even mentioned.

"Our own TheStreet.com also failed in this regard. It mentioned Macy's forecast, given earlier this month, without mentioning that the company has since gone out of the forecasting business. And it treats same-store sales similarly, not mentioning that the yearly forecast for a 1-1.5% drop in same-store sales will be met or missed without the aid of monthly figures of forecasts. Good luck putting your finger to the wind on this one.

"Terry Lundgren, Macy's chairman, president and chief executive, brags about generating significant cash flow and aggression going forward, but doesn't mention the essential fact that forecasts won't be generated going forward.

"The Associated Press did so as an afterthought, at the bottom of this article, after Hoguet's saying the company should not be afraid of risk (like, uh, being slightly off on guidance), and it dutifully reported the yearly same-store sales the company is deigning to give.

"And talk about subordinating defining news. The Wall Street Journal offers it as the final line in a news roundup piece.

"There is probably no bigger issue in how a public company deals with the public than whether it gives standard forecasts and sales numbers. When it retreats from doing so, it is big news. As an investor, treat it as such, even if the business media do not. Editor's note: To access this story, registration or a subscription may be required. "


Date: Thurs, February 28, 2008  8:48 am, CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels

I'm going in (shudder) and here is what I found:

Customers in store?

Nearly empty. (Nice crowd at Carson's and Penneys for a Wednesday night.)

Carts?

All shopping carts missing. Macy's associate did not know what happened to all off them, "I think people took them home."

Price checkers?

One unplugged, another out of service.

Display theme?

The Magic of Spring. (How original.)

Fashion forecast?

The sign says "Think bright" but displays shows black and red OR beige clothing. (Huh?) Lots of golf shirts for men with various house brand labels. In other words, they have the same shirt, same colorways and just put different labels on them.

Fashion forward?

Are you kidding? This is Macy's!


Date: Thurs, February 28, 2008  1:50 am, CT
Posted by: David

Ironically, not a daily bus ride I take en route to work/home goes by that someone isn't faithfully carrying a sturdy Marshall Field's bag for whatever reason.

I'm even more struck that the comments to this blog only increase with time, as does the commitment of Chicagoans to a return to Marshall Field's.

Will we experience the second coming of Marshall Field's? We can only pray. I don't doubt that IF it's left to the discretion- or lack thereof of macy's executives-that we won't. But what is crystal clear is that their decision to rob Chicago of Marshall Field's has failed and any further price that is to be paid, will be experienced by them within the months and years to come-and, most likely in the after life whatever that may be.


Date: Wed, February 27, 2008  11:11 pm, CT
Posted by: Michael Murray

I went to the State Street Macy's to eat in the Walnut Room and to snoop. I was seated at 3:30 pm there were 3 other tables in the room that seats 600! The waiter said he thought the day before was the worst day he had ever had, the date was Tuesday Feb 26th 2008. The waiter said that he was tolkd by management that numbers were to improve within 30 dsays or else. There was one couple at the wine bar in the walnut room.

Date: Wed, February 27, 2008  10:29 pm, CT
Posted by: Mike

Just finished working a "Macys Liquidation SALE" here out west at a former ROBINSONS MAY Location and I had to share with everyone a funny story.

During the last few days of the sale as the cheap merchandice flew off the racks we began to run low on supplies and bags. A stock associate happened to come across an old supply of brand new ROBINSONS MAY Plastic bags in an old stock area of the store that had been forgotten during the Merger. Needless to say we pulled those bags out and used them for the customers to at least carry home their treasures. We used the bags for the remainder of the sale at one register and it confused so many people but brought on so many smiles and conversations about the GOOD OL DAYS.......


Date: Wed, February 27, 2008  9:58 pm, CT
Posted by: B

Those Whacky people at the red star store --unbelievable

WHERE IS THEIR INVESTOR response ????

It is unexcusable to BE a public stock offering corporation and simply not play by the rules. If they were private then they could do whatever they wanted but to simply NOT provide any guidance on a quarterly basis much less month to month -- when everyone else (public) plays by the rules-- it is not excusable. This shows complete lack of faith in themselves and their future.

Struggling companies, in all indutries, continue to make their results known everyday and accept the consequences. Hiding is not the answer.

Having said all that-- perhaps it is a harbinger of how really awful things actually are.

I feel sorry for their employees-- they should see the writing here

B

italbearr@yahoo.com


Date: Wed, February 27, 2008  8:56 pm, CT
Posted by: Becky in Minnesota

As questioned even by even those who interview Frank Guzetta a few weeks ago, concern and rumor in St. Paul, MN that the Downtown St. Paul Macy's will be closing its doors by the end of the year. They are staying open until after the Republican Convention because space is being rented for the convention. Macy's gets what it deserves for its mistakes, but I also feel bad for all the hard working employees who may lose their job. I like to refer to Macy's as an overpriced Wal-Mart. I am wearing my Forever Marshall Fields pin proudly.

Date: Wed, February 27, 2008  8:10 pm, CT
Posted by: LiMack

Macy's can continue to obfuscate by refusing to forecast, by eliminating monthly sales reports, by not breaking out individual regions' results, and by making up mystery write-offs. What they CAN'T hide are their empty stores in Chicago and across the land. Honestly, who do they think they're fooling? I wonder who their accountants are.

Date: Wed, February 27, 2008  8:09 pm, CT
Posted by: S.

I work at an investment bank (though not as a banker). In response to Drew's many questions, here is a very simplified answer as I understand investment banking to work.

92% of Macy's stock is held by institutional investors. An institutional investor is an investor, such as a bank, insurance company, retirement fund, hedge fund, or mutual fund, that is financially sophisticated and makes large investments, often held in very large portfolios of investments. The reason that analysts do not question or challenge Macy's statements is that it is not in their self-interest to see the truth revealed (and the stock price deteriorate) because the analysts work for banks that either hold Macy's stock, or have clients that hold Macy's stock.

In other words, they are in on the scam.


Date: Wed, February 27, 2008  5:54 pm, CT
Posted by: Brad

While Macy's claims to have outperformed their peers (Walmart, Target, Kohl's, Sears and JC Penney?), analysts should note that Macy's did NOT outperform Marshall Field's peers. This is an important consideration since were it not for Macy's decision to eliminate and replace Marshall Field's, Field's would like have continued to keep pace with its department store peers as it did prior to Macy's takeover.

Field's peers Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstrom all outperformed Macy's in the 4th Quarter. Neiman Marcus posted an increase of 3.7%, Saks sales jumped 9% and Nordstrom's same-store sales declined a mere .7%, the first quarterly decline in 6 years.

It is interesting to note that Nordstrom's response to the slight drop and changing marketplace is to add more high-end merchandise to attract wealthier customers... the sort of product mix and high-end customers that were the mainstay of Marshall Field's and that keep Field's peers Saks and Neiman's profitable and growing.

Nordstrom also plans to accelerate new store openings in the coming years and has stated that it will take over some sites from Macy's Inc., according to a Feb 25 Bloomberg article by journalist Cotten Timberlake.

It's also worth noting that although Macy's claims to have outperformed its peers,Target and Walmart did in fact outperform Macy's in same-store sales with growth. Macy's posted a same-store sales decline of 2% while Target posted growth of .2%. Walmart posted growth of 1.6%, also outperforming Macy's. JC Penney posted a same-store sales decline of 2.3%, only .3% below Macy's. Kohl's and Sears haven't yet reported their Quarterly results, but will do so tomorrow. It's beyond me how Macy's can boast of having outperformed peers when the all-important same-store sales figures clearly show that Macy's did not.

Furthermore, Macy's profit figures are only achieved by their never-ending exclusion of significant "integration costs" associated with the May Company/Marshall Field's acquisition 2005, store closings, firings of thousands of employees (another 2,300 to be fired as a result of regional division changes), and a substantial one-time tax settlement.

It would appear that Macy's is hardly in a position to boast and former Marshall Field's locations would certainly have fared much better if Marshall Field's name, merchandise and service had been preserved or restored to lead the ranks of better performing high-end department stores.


Date: Wed, February 27, 2008  5:13 pm, CT
Posted by: gle

So Messy's boasts a profit because of a tax settlement while its retail aspect declines, and Karen Hoguet announces that Messy's will no longer report certain results (apparently the ones that might be embarrassing).

Something seems very irresponsible here. It's as if Lundgren's ego is what matters, and he's fighting like a wounded animal while declaring everything is just fine. I do think he or somebody needs to be turned over to a better business bureau.

HereC-s more local coverage from "The Ticker" in today's "Tribune," "Big retailers' quarterly results mixed"

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-wed_retailerns_0227feb27,0,4625684.story

Incidentally, WTTW Channel 11 had a segment called "Hidden Chicago" last night on "Chicago Tonight." It was about "ghost signs," mostly ads painted on buildings many years ago have remained even though the subject matter is long gone. They also included the Marshall Field signs and the clock on State Street, along with Macy's awnings.


Date: Wed, February 27, 2008  2:46 pm, CT
Posted by: field's fan

Womens Wear Daily reviews the conference call:

http://www.wwd.com/article/print/122974

http://www.wwd.com/financial/article/122974


Date: Wed, February 27, 2008  2:21 pm, CT
Posted by: drew

Here's a link to a video accompanying today's thestreet.com article about macy*mart's discontinuing financial reports:

http://www.thestreet.com/_yahoo/video/strategysession/10405237.html?cm_ven=YAHOO&cm_cat=FREE&cm_ite=NA#1417437587

This is an absolute classic that warns investors while making fun of "those wacky folks at macy's"! Hope someone in this group can post this video to YouTube!


Date: Wed, February 27, 2008  2:08 pm, CT
Posted by: drew

This article basically reiterates the insightful analysis made by Jim McKay on February 26:

http://www.thestreet.com/_yahoo/newsanalysis/media/10405232.html?cm_ven=YAHOO&cm_cat=FREE&cm_ite=NA

Perhaps the Wall Street analysts ARE finally realizing the truths that have been published on this blog for the past year!


Date: Wed, February 27, 2008  2:05 pm, CT
Posted by: James Miller

If things were as stable as they have been painted, there would be no need to keep sales and profit figures private.

The only reason to defer the disclosure of those things is because the Macy's management expects that information to be unfavorable.

I think they hope to discourage criticism by keeping quiet about any concerns as far as possible, and minimizing the importance of them where they are unavoidable. That would not be a strategy I would put much stock in if I were in their shoes because it is pretty obvious that they are in a vulnerable position.


Date: Wed, February 27, 2008  1:00 pm, CT
Posted by: drew

SEPHORA stocks a wide variety of better cosmetic and fragrance lines. Does anyone know if the store currently carries Estee Lauder products?

The reason I ask: a new JC Penney "life style center" location in suburban Pittsburgh contains a SEPHORA "store within a store." If indeed SEPHORA sells brands formerly available only at traditional department stores, JC Penney can do an end run around the Red Star and install SEPHORA outlets in its stores. SEPHORA could then "re-educate" consumers that their favorite lines are available at its stand-alone or JCP locations.

To Jimmy Gimbels: Your phrase "those wacky folks at macy's" is absolutely priceless!


Date: Wed, February 27, 2008  12:48 pm, CT
Posted by: Rich W

Reading M*cy's statements regarding their alleged outperformance of the competition regarding Q4 earnings, I see they are trying to create as much magic in their financial reports as they are trying in their stores. But one magical feat they will not accomplish is the reappearance of Marshall Field's loyalists, and quite honestly, any consumer with a discerning taste level. A tax gain is the only thing that separated them from the rest. And I strongly suspect they moved their permanent markdowns out to February to disguise their weak performance. One thing in their favor is the glut of disposable private label brands such as Alphony, J-U-N-K, Barter Club and Donald Trump (no need to parody a name that is a parody of itself), which they put out at such an astronomical markup that when they do sell it at $10, they still make money. I cannot wait to see what they say for Q1 2008 when they report weak earnings and sales: the blame will be the weather, the economy, the war, the presidential campaign, the environment, the price of oil, no new hot item trends, stern competition from Walmart and Family Dollar, and of course, us Field's Fans.

Date: Wed, February 27, 2008  12:37 pm, CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels

Well kids, we finally found something that Macy's is actually good at: creative accounting!

1. A tax settlement that let's Macy's post a small profit...EVEN THOUGH REVENUE WAS DOWN!

2. Still hiding all sorts of expenses in that foggy "integration costs" column. (How many year's will this go on?)

3. Stock buy backs to make it appear there is a demand for Macy stock. (HA!)

4. Hiding their failures in large markets by consolidating regional divisions to hide their lack of business in the north, midwest and southwest.

5. No more monthly or quarterly reports. Me thinks they have lots to hide!

Let's not forget the multiple class action suits initiated by stock holders because Macy's overinflates their financial picture.

Interesting to note the financial analysts praising Macy's. But, it really is their job to get rubes to purchase stocks. Why do they write "Same-store sales should improve as former May stores become more accustomed to the Macy assortment and merchandise strategy" (Liz Dunn of Weisel Partners).

Will we ever become "more accustomed" to Macy's poorly-made, overpriced clothing that fit no one?

Every body: NO!

Are we coming to suddenly prefer Macy's merchandise strategy of "pretend" designers (Donald Trump..HA!) and superpricing goods so they do do 50% mark downs? (Remember the $1200 diamond necklace for only $199 during the holidays? HA!)

Every body together: NO!

Do we flock to Macy's for their "hot" brands like Martha Stewart (get it at Kmart), Donny the Trump and Jessica Simpson?

All together: NO!

Stand strong. There is no Magic at Macy's. Boycott now, tomorrow, forever! Now meet me at Lord and Taylor. I need some new ties.

Brace yourself folks, I am doing my monthly Macy's walk through this very evening because Jimmy Gimbels goes to Macy's so you don't have to bother. Will the elevators be working? Will exterior lights be turned on? Did anyone bother to vac the carpet? Come with me and I will buy you one of those large pretzels they sell in the mall.


Date: Wed, February 27, 2008  10:18 am, CT
Posted by: drew

Although Estee Lauder cosmetics demonstrates a great potential for growth, their future success lies outside the traditional department store channel:

http://www.businessweek.com/investor/content/feb2008/pi20080225_316795.htm?campaign_id=yhoo

The article notes three interrelated causes for the decline in department store productivity. Do you get it, Terry? The name change hasn't IMPROVED sales or attracted shoppers--customers DON'T want macy*mart and manufacturers are wisely developing other venues to sell their products because they don't see much potential with "the magic of macy*mart."

IF macy*mart is still in business in five years, I would suspect that ALL of the better cosmetic lines will have moved on. Of course, this would allow macy*mart to develop their own "exciting" house brand cosmetics and fragrances. After all, wasn't Donald Trump cologne for men a major success?


Date: Wed, February 27, 2008  9:40 am, CT
Posted by: Zelda

When I look at Lundgren's latest spin on low sales - yet another attempt to cover up the truth - I am reminded of those cartoons where Speedy Gonzales runs around and around a mountain and then off a cliff but it takes about a minute for him to realize he's gone off the cliff so he's running in space. Then, when he realizes it, he goes straight down. It's funny up there on the screen, and it will be funny when it happens to Terry, too. If ever a company took a wrong turn, it was Federated putting Terry Lundgren in charge and following him off the cliff.

I am sure the Macy Gang hopes to outlast our boycott, but they have way underestimated our commitment and also the intelligence of the average shopper. The downgrading of Marshall Field's and other great regional stores is obvious to all. The full spectrum of American shoppers, from the poorest to the richest, all have better places to shop. And to quote one of Field's Fans' Finest (that's you, Pat): "WE WILL CATERWAUL TILL THE COWS COME HOME." In the end, truth outlasts spin.


Date: Wed, February 27, 2008  9:39 am, CT
Posted by: Lawrence Mingus

Is it possible to acquire Marshall Field's plastic bags and or shopping bags? I would love to walk through a Macy's store, if they are still open, carrying a Field's bag.

Date: Tues, February 26, 2008  11:16 pm, CT
Posted by: drew

Again I would call upon someone with expertise in the operation of Wall Street to answer a few questions:

If macy*mart is a PUBLICLY traded corporation, are they LEGALLY permitted to discontinue monthly reports? Of course, privately held companies (like Boscov's) don't have to release sales data, but what about a company that sells its stock to the public?

How can a retailer with declining sales claim to earn a "profit" and issue a dividend to shareholders?

For how long a time can a corporation claim consolidation costs--without an explanation of what these costs entail?

How can shareholders permit a corporation to vest ultimate power in one person--with no oversight or checks/balances?

How can shareholders allow the management that permitted dramatic loss of value to remain in control of the corporation?

How can so many financial and retail "experts" observe glaring flaws and inconsistencies in a business plan yet fail to challenge ambiguous explanations and lack of direction?

Given macy*mart's latest departures from transparency, could it be that the business is doing even MORE poorly than people would suspect? Why the need to conceal information if the macy*fication program is the smashing success that Lundgren and Company promised?


Date: Tues, February 26, 2008  11:11 pm, CT
Posted by: James in Minneapolis

Hi All---

Jim has summarized very well my own thoughts a few posts below this one. One other thought keeps swirling through my head as I read the transcript of the analysts' call with Hoguet. I am surprised by the lack of a challenge posed by the analysts to such issues as the combining of the poorly performing former May Co divisions into the higher performing legacy Macy's divisons, while the company simultaneously refuses to discuss how those stores are doing. In fact not only will the company not discuss the topic, they are going to report less frequently. There did not seem to be any real push back from analysts.

Macys's is very fortunate that I am not an analyst. My patience with their hiding of information would be very thin if I were an analyst. Not having access to information would make me just tell people that it is not a good investment since they are clearly hiding some kind of bad news.

Regards.


Date: Tues, February 26, 2008  10:20 pm, CT
Posted by: L. Grand

It is BEYOND AMAZING how stupid Lundgren and his cronies think the average shopper is. And the analysts too!

I cannot believe that ANYONE would not see Macy's cloak-and-dagger deceptive tactics as anything else.

First it was merger costs, then it was integration costs, now it is consolidation costs, so what's next, Terry Lundgren? How's this for an idea before it's time (which I truly believe is just around the corner): MOVING EXPENSES!!


Date: Tues, February 26, 2008  10:01 pm, CT
Posted by: Richard in Houston

Macy's comments about how the Foley's Houston and Dallas stores is the biggest smokescreen yet. Of course the Foley's stores have outperformed the "legacy" Macy's stores. In Houston, Macy's closed 3 of the 4 that were here. The one that remained in The Galleria is in desparate need of remodeling and is dead all the time. This is yet another misleading tale given to the press to make themselves appear successful. What amazes me is the analysts and press behaving like lemmings and not questioning Lunkhead and his minions. There is no accountability in the ranks of Macy's. When will this madness end? If Foley's former stores were doing so well, why did they close 3 of them?

Date: Tues, February 26, 2008  9:01 pm, CT
Posted by: Virgina

It's truly a tradgedy that Macy's can put it's affairs undercover like this. This is nothing short of manipulating shareholders while they attempt to cover up their mistakes.

Date: Tues, February 26, 2008  7:34 pm, CT
Posted by: Jon

What are they going to do when they run out of excuses and one time tax breaks?

Date: Tues, February 26, 2008  5:53 pm, CT
Posted by: Alex V.

Tribune features AP version of today's Macy's news; there's a place to comment afterwards:
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-biz-macys-earnings-feb26,0,6025006.story

Sun-Times' Sandra Guy:

http://www.suntimes.com/business/earnings/813179,macys022608.article

Date: Tues, February 26, 2008  5:46 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Macy's shareholders should be very, very concerned.

As we have discussed countless times before, Mr. Lundgren is President, Chief Executive Office and Chairman of Macy's. A healthy organization would spread these positions amongst three --or at least two different--people to provide some checks and balances. With the same person having all three positions, those checks and balances are greatly curtailed.

Beginning today, we add into this arrangement the great reduction in information that will be provided to shareholders, potential investors and the like. What were monthly reports will become only quarterly; what were quarterly reports are becoming annual.

I was especially taken aback at how insistent Ms. Hoguet was this morning when she stated they will no longer be breaking out or discussing the progress of the integration of former May-owned stores. If they continue to take charges for this integration, shouldn't they also be breaking out what is happening with these stores? They certainly should.

Combining Macy's North with Macy's East, Macy's Midwest with Macy's South, and Macy's Northwest with Macy's West also comes across as maneuvers to bury the poorest performing regions with the stats of the best performing regions.

It's almost if Mr. Lundgren and his associates were taking Macy's, Inc. private--but, of course, it belongs to the shareholders and not just a few execs. While I am generally an advocate of giving managers the autonomy they need to be effective, it's clear that Mr. Lundgren and his associates have way too much autonomy and not enough accountability. There needs to be more checks and balances and more regular information made available to investors. Management needs to be more accountable on a much more frequent basis, especially when things aren't looking so good for Macy's in the near future. Today Ms. Hoguet responded analysts' questions by saying she didn't "have a crystal ball". With that kind of uncertainty, is it healthy or appropriate for Macy's to go for much longer stretches without giving insights into its performance? Of course not.

In short, what have they got to hide? It is as if Lundgren and his management team are trying to hide the failure of Macy's conversion of May stores including and, most especially, Marshall Field's.


Date: Tues, February 26, 2008  4:24 pm, CT
Posted by: Foley's Fan

I want to respond to Ms. Hoguet's comment about how former Foley's stores in Dallas and Houston did better than legacy Macy*Mart stores....

In both cities there were only ONE Macys store in each Houston and Dallas... and they were ALWAYS empty!! So of course if the former Foleys stores saw sales drop something like 50% after the Macys conversion, Macy*Mart could still say they out preformed the legacy Macys doors...

There are a lot of people here down here in Texas who miss Foley's just as much as Marshall Fields!


Date: Tues, February 26, 2008  3:31 pm, CT
Posted by: Field's Fan

This morning was the Macy's conference call covering Q4 2007 (Nov '07 - Jan '08). Macy's, Inc.'s CFO, Karen Hoguet exclusively spoke for the company.

The following are my notes from her presentation and her responses to questions. They are not my comments. I am simply passing along what I think Ms. Hoguet said. This is generalized. Eventually, a recording of the actual call will be made available in audio format through a link at Macysinc.com such that you can listen to the actual call first hand.

My notes of Hoguet's remarks.

=========================================

Due to some tax issue settlements, Macy's managed a profit this past quarter but sales were down from a year prior. It was pointed out that sales were down but not down as much as at some of Macy's competitors. (One analyst later congratulated Macy's for this.)

Last year at this time, Macy's noted softness in its ready-to-wear sales. This has continued. In addition, while things improved at Macy's stores through mid-Spring, softer sales also extended to other areas beyond ready-to-wear.

Macy's had good news in five areas:

1) Former May Department Store locations improved overall. In some locations they outperformed stores that have been Macy's before the May merger. When later pressed by an analyst to name which former May territories had outperformed long-term Macy's stores, Hoguet said Dallas and Houston. (Under May, these were Foley's stores.)
2) Home goods, furniture and mattresses ended up improving and doing well. Hoguet said this was in part because of a change in marketing, advertising, better execution and web sales.
3) Launch of the Martha Stewart line is considered a success.
4) Bloomingdale's had a great year with Macy's looking to expand. They are still scouting areas and sites.
5) macys.com experienced an great increase and was profitable.

While some Macy's private label merchandise especially didn't do so well, the following private label brands did do well: American Rag, Hotel, The Cellar, I.N.C. (Men), Club Room, Tasso Elba, and others I didn't catch.

It was also confirmed that there will be no more monthly sales reports and no quarterly guidance.

Macy's plans to conserve cash and not buy back stock because of the current economic environment.

Hoguet talked about the new "localization" concept and some points on what it would mean.

1) Fewer stores per "span" (something like 10-15 instead of 50 or 60, if I heard that correctly).
2) Tailor merchandise and to the locations.
3) More resources to make local decisions
4) Realized savings would be used to reinvest in better "coverage on the sales floor".

Macy's plans to focus on fashion and value.

There will be more commercials emphasizing how Macy's fashions are backed by celebrities. Commercials in the same vein as the Christmas season commercials will start airing later this spring. (Remember that the Christmas commercials featured Donald Trump, Martha Stewart, Jessica Simpson, and others who have lines at Macy's.)

There were various questions from analysts answered by Ms. Hoguet.

When she was asked about how the former May stores were doing she said Macy's would no longer be breaking those stores out. They will not even talk about it. And, as mentioned above, she did say former May stores in Dallas and Houston were outperforming the older Macy's stores.

When asked if there would be more store closures along the lines of the nine that were announced right after Christmas, Hoguet said that larger closings were not expected in the future; she was also quick to point out that it's typical for Macy's to close maybe ten or a dozen stores a year.

When asked about the time frame for the "localization", Hoguet said things would have to be put in place and it would be next spring (Spring 2009, I assume) before the "localized" merchandise would hit the sales floors.

When asked about the previously referenced expansion of Bloomingdale's, she said there would be no new locations in 2008 but they would be scouting for 2009. My impression was that there would be another year of typical Macy's openings and remodels this year, maybe a dozen or so.


Date: Tues, February 26, 2008  2:17 pm, CT
Posted by: A Friend in the Northeast

I just wanted to let you know that LLBean is coming to Illinois in September. It will be in South Barrington, IL and be 30,000 sq ft. Another alternative for you shoppers out there...

Date: Tues, February 26, 2008  9:49 am, CT
Posted by: Alan

Quite predictably, Lundgren is crowing about how they "outperformed" their peer group in the 4th quarter, although that seems mostly on cost cutting and one-time tax benefits. A downside is that with the recent mergers of the divisions and shifting to quarterly sales reporting, it will be more difficult to see how the stores are performing, and importantly, how the former Field's stores are performing relative to the rest of the group. I sense that Lundgren thinks he may have bought himself more time, but the upside for Field's fans is that there will be pressure for a breakup or more strategic asset sales (ie key underperforming stores) if the "localization" is less successful in certain areas than others.

Date: Tues, February 26, 2008  7:08 am, CT
Posted by: Alan

There's a lot of "noise" in today's earnings release. At the end of the day, it seems that, although the headline figure is "above the Street," there are a lot of one-item items in the number. Perhaps telling (as CNBC pointed out) is the following statement:

"Effective with 2008, the company has decided to no longer report sales on a monthly basis in addition to its previously announced decision not to provide quarterly sales or earnings guidance. The company will continue to report sales and earnings quarterly and to provide guidance on an annual basis"


Date: Mon, February 25, 2008  11:34 pm, CT
Posted by: Brad

Every time I read an article repeating Macy's claim that customers don't care what the name on the door or that customers are happy with Macy's changes, I am astonished that reporters fail to question the surveys upon Macy's relies to make this claim. Certainly the independent retail surveys conducted by Minnesota's University of St. Thomas more accurately reflect the distaste felt for Macy's by the general public.

It is beyond reason to believe that Macy's truly believes that the opinions of those significantly reduced number of customers who do still venture into Macy's converted Marshall Field's stores to buy only deeply discounted sale items reflects the opinions of the general public who have deserted Macy's. By Macy's own admission, they have given up on trying to win back former Field's customers. This, combined with the dramatic drop in revenue earned by Macy's in formerly successful Field's stores seems to suggest that a very large number of customers DO care what name is on the door. If only there were a petition with 60,000 signatures, a Chicago Tribune poll with 14,000 respondents, distribution of more than 100,000 leaflet and requests filled from around the world for more than 100,000 buttons and stickers, numerous web blogs, a thriving Field's Fans website and protests with several hundred participants in front of the landmark Marshall Field's building on State Street to demonstrate how much people DO in fact care about the importance of Marshall Field's name... oh wait, there are.

There was also the dramatic drop in customer traffic and sales revenue at former Field's stores the instant Macy's red star replaced Marshall Field's name.

Yet still, Macy's execs stick to their story that Macy's problems have nothing to do with their decision to eliminate and replace Marshall Field's name and with few exceptions, the press fails to challenge Macy's and hold them accountable.


Date: Mon, February 25, 2008  8:44 pm, CT
Posted by: MJA1951

I agree with the posting below that I would rather not see Field's return under Macy's. The've already shown what they think of Field's and any attempt by Macy's to bring it back would just be to try and save their asses now.

Marshall Field's can never be what is was under Macy's.

It's better to let Macy's continue to self destruct and have someone else bring back Field's.


Date: Mon, February 25, 2008  8:11 pm, CT
Posted by: CurtM

I live in St. Louis and have been keeping a watchful eye on the Field's/Macy's situation from the onset. Believe it or not, initially Macy's was an improvement over Famous-Barr here. Macy's rearranged and cleaned up most of the St. Louis stores. We've seen some minor improvements with our historic downtown store. With downtown, they've brought back the animated holiday window displays that had been gone for 30 years (okay, it was the Christmas 2006 windows from Macy's downtown Pittsburgh!)and Santa returned to our downtown store after this practice was discontinued in the 80's. But as time has marched on, the selection and quality of merchandise at Macy's here has taken a nosedive. How long can this continue?

Which brings me to the purpose of this site: Marshall Field's. When Macy's took over Famous Barr, I was expecting a store like Marshall Field's! Prior to then, my only experience with Macy's was one visit to Herald Square 20 years ago. Needless to say, it's been a disappointment with the Macy's of today.

Over the years, my wife and I have always made time to stop at either State Street or at least Water Tower. Along with thousands of other visitors to Chicago, we plan on spending our time and dollars elsewhere when we visit. Why in the world would we go to Macy's?

Although we visited State Street several times, we only visited at Christmas time once which was December, 2000. The store was bustling with activity, the Walnut Room had a 2-hour wait. The windows that year had the theme of Harry Potter. It's because of those great windows that year that our oldest daughter (now 12)is a big Harry Potter fan (not just with the movies, she owns and has read every Potter book). As a parent and consumer, I know those windows were money well spent by Field's that year!

While I'm thinking about it, I was watching the 1970's movie "The Fury" a few weeks ago and it showed a brief scene in front of the Watertower Field's. It was irritating to think about what the store has now become.

I, too, wish for Marshall Field's to return. Let's keep it up, it really can happen.


Date: Mon, February 25, 2008  7:47 pm, CT
Posted by: Tom S.

I live in St. Louis and have been keeping a watchful eye on the Field's/Macy's situation from the onset. Believe it or not, initially Macy's was an improvement over Famous-Barr here. Macy's rearranged and cleaned up most of the St. Louis stores. We've seen some minor improvements with our historic downtown store. With downtown, they've brought back the animated holiday window displays that had been gone for 30 years (okay, it was the Christmas 2006 windows from Macy's downtown Pittsburgh!)and Santa returned to our downtown store after this practice was discontinued in the 80's. But as time has marched on, the selection and quality of merchandise at Macy's here has taken a nosedive. How long can this continue?

Which brings me to the purpose of this site: Marshall Field's. When Macy's took over Famous Barr, I was expecting a store like Marshall Field's! Prior to then, my only experience with Macy's was one visit to Herald Square 20 years ago. Needless to say, it's been a disappointment with the Macy's of today.

Over the years, my wife and I have always made time to stop at either State Street or at least Water Tower. Along with thousands of other visitors to Chicago, we plan on spending our time and dollars elsewhere when we visit. Why in the world would we go to Macy's?

Although we visited State Street several times, we only visited at Christmas time once which was December, 2000. The store was bustling with activity, the Walnut Room had a 2-hour wait. The windows that year had the theme of Harry Potter. It's because of those great windows that year that our oldest daughter (now 12)is a big Harry Potter fan (not just with the movies, she owns and has read every Potter book). As a parent and consumer, I know those windows were money well spent by Field's that year!

While I'm thinking about it, I was watching the 1970's movie "The Fury" a few weeks ago and it showed a brief scene in front of the Watertower Field's. It was irritating to think about what the store has now become.

I, too, wish for Marshall Field's to return. Let's keep it up, it really can happen.


Date: Mon, February 25, 2008 , CT
Posted by: Karen S. C.

Having worked for Field's under Target and Macy's, there is no point in having marshall field's name return under macy's as they have an entirely different way of doing business. It would be a shame to use the name Marshall Field's under their ownership.

Date: Mon, February 25, 2008 , CT
Posted by: Doris Ray

Hello Field's Fans,

Let me put it out there this way.

If there is anything my philosophy professor pounded into my head was the logic theory. You know: IF THIS IS TRUE AND THIS IS TRUE, THEREFORE, THIS MUST BE TRUE. Translation: IF 'M' CONTINUES TO ADVERTISE LOW-END MERCHANDISE, AND IF SALES CONTINUE TO LAG, THEREFORE, IT IS LOGICAL TO SAY THAT CHICAGOANS DON'T WISH TO PURCHASE LOW-END MERCHANDISE FROM THE STORES FORMALLY KNOWN AS MARSHALL FIELD'S.

Comforter sets can be purchased for under $100 everyday of the week from stores such as Kmart, Walmart, Target, Kohl's, etc. Why wait for that same merchandise to go on sale at M's?

Terry L. and his crew simply misjudged the Marshall Field's shopper, and the mystique with shopping at Field's.

What do you all think?

D.


Date: Mon, February 25, 2008 , CT
Posted by: Tom S.

I'm here in our public library and they have a display with women's hat's from fashions of years ago. There is one hat with the hat box from Marshall Field's and on the hat box it say's "Marshall Field's FRENCH ROOM" I used to work at Marshall Field's and have seen alot of the old Marshall Field's "collectibles" but never heard of the "French Room". Does anyone remember or know what that was. I assume it must have been hats imported from France but could that just be to easy to figure out????

Date: Sun, February 24, 2008  4:39 pm, CT
Posted by: drew

Could someone with an understanding of the workings of Wall Street please explain a few things:

How is the Red Star Store able to declare a dividend when stock prices have fallen about 50% and sales have continuously dropped over the past year?

Jimmy Gimbels posted that the Red Star plans to cut expenses by $60 million to $100 million over the next two years. How can expenses be reduced by that amount without MORE massive layoffs and store closures?

Why have no retail analysts questioned the $150 million expense related to consolidation? Wouldn't the recent elimination of several operating divisions have resulted in savings? For how many years will the Red Star be given a free pass to claim "expenses" when they should be reporting greater profitability due to increased "efficiency"?


Date: Sun, February 24, 2008  2:21 pm, CT
Posted by: A. Perkins

Let's see what Karen Hoguet says about the MayCo integration costs this coming week.

Jimmy Gimbels mentioned that they would be high. Is this a way to cook the books?

The stores all look integrated to me. They are a consistant mess, coast to coast! What is left in terms of integration that they still have costs?

Below is a link to the transcripts of the Q3 2007 conference call. Will be interesting and revealing to compare with Ms. Hoguet's talk this Tuesday at the Q4 2007 conference call.

http://seekingalpha.com/article/54230-macys-f3q07-qtr-end-11-3-07-earnings-call-transcript?source=side_bar_transcripts&page=-1

Date: Sun, February 24, 2008  9:44 am, CT
Posted by: Judy Marth

I met the most wonderful Field's Fan at Lyric Opera last evening! An older lady, European by her accent, was carryibg a green plastic Marshall Field's bag. I commented on the bag and said I wish I had kept my bags like that! I told her about our website and we talked a while about the "good old days" at Field's. When it was time to go to our seats, she said, "Would you really like to have a bag like this?" and she emptied it out and gave it to me! I was shocked! I immediately went back to the coat check room and got my Field's pin I always wear on my coat and gave it to her. The coat check attendant loved the pin and asked me for one. I promised to bring one to the next opera! That really made my evening!

Field's Fans - they're everywhere!!

Judy


Date: Sun, February 24, 2008  8:23 am, CT
Posted by: Field's Fan

Tribune has a short segment on the fashion incubator at Macy's in today's paper.

Afterwards, there is a spot where you can leave comments.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/features/lifestyle/q/chi-0224_style_blurb_k_hfeb24,0,2486140.story


Date: Sat, February 23, 2008  4:02 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Sandra Jones' Saturday retail column has a bit about the discontinuation of art sales at former Field's furniture gallery stores and the like. It points out that there will be some art at State Street.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-sat_notebook0223feb23,0,2570978.story

Date: Sat, February 23, 2008  12:32 am, CT
Posted by: B

The Fair at one time was a very successful and popular store in Chicago-- The downtown location was very large. The Fair was a fixture in Chicago from the late 1800's also. I believe The Fair closed in the late 60's. Carson Pirie Scott --although downmarket from its old days --was also always popular and IT IS STILL HERE!!!

The buildings of Marshall Field and Company in downtown Oak Park and Evanston ARE beautiful and REALLY must have been incredible department stores and branches of OUR store.

Hearing about the sad oakbrook store is terrible. This was the MOST BEAUTIFUL Branch store in my opinion and experience (of any department stores anywhere) -- it is hard to believe that it has suffered such insult under the red star store (lack of)stewardship.

Thanks All

B

italbearr@yahoo.com


Date: Fri, February 22, 2008  10:59 pm, CT
Posted by: JB

The Macys ads on tv are a bit like discount store commercials. Everything 40 to 50 percent off, etc, etc, etc. They don't seem to make themselves out to be a luxury end store or even a department store. I guess they want to be more like Target and Wal*Mart than a luxury shopping experience. BTW my former Fields store does not have a soul in it. A former writer was right in saying that the only people going into the stores anymore are those simply passing through on their way somewhere else. I love Marshall Fields and will always remember it! Hopefully it will come back! Lets keep up the good work.

Date: Fri, February 22, 2008  10:14 pm, CT
Posted by: James in MInneapolis

This afternoon I walked over to a Lund's, a locally owned, premium food store specializing in top quality meats & produce, foods of the world, and great friendly service. I ran into a guy, "J", who used to work in Select at Dayton's and then Field's. He then moved into the back offices. His is one of the jobs that will be staying in Minneapolis as one of the local jobs to make sure "they have things just right for each store", as Sluzewski often says in the press.

He told me that the reason they keep cutting brands and will continue to do so is that if the brand does not make money, it goes. It does not matter how skimpy the floor looks-----the appearance of the floor apparently is not that big a concern. The first concern is to get the non-profitable brand out of there. That certainly explains the crappy appearance of the stores due to poor selection in Minneapolis/St Paul. I am guessing Chicagoland is not looking too much different than here? Certainly weekly, and sometimes daily, I am pulled into conversations about how much people despise macy's. Yesterday that came from a 22 year-old intern that works in my department, who said even though she didn't have much money as a student in high school and early college, she went to Dayton's/Field's whenever she could and just assumed that once she graduated and worked full-time, that would become her main store. Now she hardly ever goes to macy's because of the, in her words, "crappy merchandise and crappy service."

I just read a quote from Sluzewski where he again asserted that customers insisted that they don't care about the name on the door. It's what's inside the store that counts. I absolutely must insist that at least in Minneapolis, people care a great deal about the name on the door. They cared from the outset of this business debacle. And now after this year and a half of pure non-sense of bad service and poor merchandise, they care even more because the name on the door has come to signify all that is wrong with some parts of American business: greed, dishonesty, poor management, and a "customer-be-damned" attitude. Lundgren and his cronies can argue all they want that this is not what they strive for-----However---this IS what they have achieved.

Regards.


Date: Fri, February 22, 2008  9:31 pm, CT
Posted by: Steven

The Field's in Evanston is the first one I shopped at when I started graduate school at Northwestern in 1982. I remember my first purchase was a thick wool V-neck sweater, I believe by Pendleton. The Men's Department was located in the single story addition at the back of the building. I can still see the main floor and the staircase going up by the elevators. It was so Old World elegant, just like State Street and quite unlike the store at Old Orchard. Marshall Field's was my very first credit card and I bought all the clothes for my first job interviews there. After graduation, my first job took me to Houston, Texas and I was thrilled to find Field's at the Galleria.

It's taken only 15 months to undo what took 150 years to build. I can't imagine a worse steward for Field's than Macy's. Not even Sears would have yucked it up so much, and it's only going to get worse. By Christmas, I would be very surprised if State Street still has wine and food, candy (other than Frangos), greeting cards, travel agents, or opticians (if they aren' gone already). I bet Macy's is losing its shirt with the Walnut Room but realizes that it can't suffer the bad PR closing it would cause. That McDonald's, Taco Bell and Panda Express haven't moved into the basement already also surprises me. Barbara's Books, Thomas Pink and Merz... how do they stay there? Are they just waiting for leases to expire before they pull up and move out?

And how do the people who still shop there put up with the experience? Truly, the store reminds me of one on its way to bankruptcy. You know it's only a matter of time. Remember what Sears felt like in its last years in the building now occupied by Robert Morris College? Or what Montgomery Ward's felt like in its last years at State and Adams? Or Wieboldt's? Remember the uncompelling merchandise that had nothing to offer unless it were drastically marked down. Remember the dirtiness of the stores and how clothing was strewn carelessly about. Remember the eerie emptiness, like you were in a store in a small city like Springfield, rather than a world-class metropolis.

I remember and I see it again. In Macy's.

I too keep my Marshall Field's Regards credit card in the top drawer of my dresser for the day Field's returns to State Street.

Funny how stores like JC Penney, Kohl's and even Sears are doing all they can to upgrade their clothing selections and quality with the help of Ralph Lauren, Vera Wang and Lands End to attract shoppers, while Macy's still relies on bogus brands like Alphoni and irritating celebs like Donald Trump. How did that management team ever make it to the top? Seriously, Terry Lundgren, you couldn't repel Midwestern shoppers more unless you actually locked the doors.


Date: Fri, February 22, 2008  8:45 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

This Tuesday's conference call will present 4th quarter 2007 earnings. Effectively it tell how Macy's fared this past holiday season and in fiscal 2007.

Date: Fri, February 22, 2008  5:08 pm, CT
Posted by: Michelle R

Coming to MF was always an exiting event for me! My late father (Gary Boening) took my brother, Brian, and I shopping on State Street, and we had lunch at the Walnut Room. MF was a special place when I grew up in suburban Chicagoland, and I will always cherish the trips to visit my dad and shop on State Street at MF. ;o)

Date: Fri, February 22, 2008  4:45 pm, CT
Posted by: L. Grand

Macy's board declared a dividend of 13 cents a share today.

The company will webcast a call with financial analysts [February 26 - Tuesday] at 11 a.m. ET (one half-hour later than the 10:30 a.m. ET previously announced). The webcast is accessible to the media and general public either via the company's Web site at www.macysinc.com or by calling in on 1-800-474-8920 (719-457-2727 for international callers), passcode 4700212.

The full Macy's press release (the basis of a number of media reports today) can be viewed at:

http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1111444&highlight=

Date: Fri, February 22, 2008  4:37 pm, CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels

More news from those wacky folks at Macy's:

1. Macy's says it expects to reduce expenses by about $60 million this year and by about $100 million a year starting in 2009. (What else can they cut? More maintenance cuts? Sales associates? Will they turn off more lights? Add more vending machines? Maybe the bags will get even thinner and easier to break.)

2. The company plans to take a one-time charge of $150 million dollars this year for expenses related to the consolidation. (There's that good, old consolidation account to hide the cost of a failed business strategy.)


Date: Fri, February 22, 2008  11:27 am, CT
Posted by: Peter

I just saw an article online stating that "Macy's aims to win fans in Indiana"

I find it strange that the Magic of Macy's isn't enough to win fans over. Wasn't the whole idea of renaming the stores because, according to Macy's, "It's not the name on the store, it's what's inside that counts"?

http://www.indystar.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080222/BUSINESS/802220418


Date: Fri, February 22, 2008  1:36 am, CT
Posted by: James in Minneapolis

The Spring Flower Shows are on for this year at State St & Nicollet Mall. Theme is "Floranova"---meaning it will feature design elements from Latin countries such as Mexico, Cuba, Colonial Puerto Rico, Brazil plus Miami South Beach. Starts 3/13.

Regards.


Date: Thu, February 21, 2008  3:17 pm, CT
Posted by: PaulF

Oh the fine art departments will be closed? I'm surprised they were not liquidated at the start.

The only oil paintings I have ever bought thus far in my life were a few from Marshall Field's. They were on sale at the gallery at the soon to be closed Warehouse building on Diversey. They were all done by art students or something. They had hundreds of them and they were all beautiful, with many different styles available. I knew the Field's art gallery on State Street always had beautiful works of art of sale. It was really a treasure.

Well what does Macy's need with art or design. When you're running a two-bit Kohl's knock off, I'm sure that hand-painted artwork doesn't really fit much with the needs of your target clientelle.


Date: Thu, February 21, 2008  11:17 am, CT
Posted by: Rich W

Times are getting desperate. Retailers are mostly struggling, with the exception of Walmart, some specialty stores and very high end stores like Saks. How tragic is it that M*cy's, Inc decided to turn away my business? I cut my M card up (which I have had for many years as a native New Yorker)long ago and have not shopped there in well over a year. I still have my green Field's card, waiting anxiously to hopefully be used again some day. Just think.....what would be gained by restoring Marshall Field's to the way it was in every element and with all the elegance and class it had before the takeover and devaluation. I would more than likely do all my holiday shopping there, plus my own personal shopping. Right now, Lord and Taylor is getting most of my business. It's retailing 101- give the customer what they want! One thing Target did when they owned Field's was to call the customer their "guest" and treat them as a guest. Now, we have "come experience the magic of M*cy's but we'll tell you what you want!"

Date: Thu, February 21, 2008  11:07 am, CT
Posted by: J C & J M

Below is a link to stores of days gone by including some past locations of Field's. But really what we are here for is for the Marshall Field's of the future. What should be part of the Marshall Field's of the 21st Century, the Field's that our group is trying to bring back for the future?

http://mall-hall-of-fame.blogspot.com/2008_01_01_archive.html


Date: Thu, February 21, 2008  2:29 am, CT
Posted by: LiMack

We've now passed the 15 month mark. Sigh. Fifteen months since Macy's plastered their unwelcome name and red star on our beautiful Marshall Field's. What a sad milestone.

---15 months of tourists who were denied the experience of shopping at Chicago's iconic and world famous store.

---15 months of brides who were denied the joy and professionalism of the Marshall Field's bridal registry.

---15 months of people re-locating to Chicago being denied the wealth of Marshall Field's selections to help them furnish and decorate their new places.

---15 months of graduations, bar mitzvahs, baby showers, Christmases, birthdays, and other gift giving occasions without a Marshall Field's box to open.

---15 months of parties and proms and holiday dances without having Field's as the place to find the perfect outfit.

---15 months of reduced sales tax dollars flowing into the city and state coffers.

---15 months of Loop lunch hours without being able to go over and see "what's new at Field's".

---15 months of watching the small uncared for maintenance issues turn into real problems within our precious Field's buildings.

For those in Macy's management who think Field's was only a name and that 111 N. State was only a store, I need to say this. For 150 years Marshall Field's has been stitched into the civic fabric of Chicago and has been intertwined in with the history, the life events, and the day to day activities of generations of Chicagoans in a way that is impossible to describe. Not understanding this, and not respecting this, is a large part of why you failed, Macy's---and why things here are not going to improve for you, ever.

Marshall Field's "is" Chicago, and Marshall Field's needs to return to Chicago in name, spirit, service and merchandise.


Date: Thu, February 21, 2008  12:50 am, CT
Posted by: David

We Chicagoans sometimes forget how widespread the macy's bad-will truly is.

I was in suburban St. Louis for business and after our documentary shooting wrapped was asked by one of its subjects, a well-to-do woman caring for a spouse with Alzheimer's, "How's my favorite Chicago store 'Marshall Field's'?" Ironically, her reality had sheltered her from ours- until now. She was livid.

She shared how angry St. Louis is about losing "Famous Barr" and shared the "betrayal" felt by them that macy's had "lied" about jobs being lost etc. She noted that "800 people here were just laid off by macy's and we were told that would "not happen" back when they tried to sell the conversion to us- and the selection in their stores is pitiful".

Bitching about macy's and noting their failure doesn't compare with the faintest memories of experiencing the beloved "Marshall Field's" of 2006 and beyond.


Date: Wed, February 20, 2008  11:06 pm, CT
Posted by: Brett

Just got back from a quick trip to Chicago (I live in Toronto, Canada) - and as MF used to be a favourite (and usually first) stop when I hit town, I stopped by to see what macy's has done... Crooked (really crooked) macy's signage, reduced to clear merchandise and a real lack of shoppers (especially in the basement where the food area is usually bustling) confirms that MF really has left the building. I didnt spend a dime there and hope that macy's learns a bitter lesson. Keep it up - big business cant always win.

Chicago just isnt the same...


Date: Wed, February 20, 2008  10:19 pm, CT
Posted by: FieldsFan123

Dear Field's Fans,

If you're looking for a reason to go to Carson's... they have a Clinique gift with purchase. It's a $50 value with any $21.50 purchase. It's also a vote to bring back Field's!

Also did anyone notice that in recent years Carson's brought back their tagline from years ago? They brought it back during the whole Macy's fiasco. Why now? Because Carson's tagline says it all [don't go to Macy's] "Come to the Right Place!"


Date: Wed, February 20, 2008  8:38 pm, CT
Posted by: Jeff S.

Was just sick today as I took the escalator at the Oak Brook Store to the basement. The beautiful "Bistro" is walled off. Gives the basement a real "basement" feeling! The once great wine department is now luggage. While up on 3, (I was the only person walking around up there -- but, I did see one employee) I believe there is much less merchandise; so much more open floor space. It is evident that things are not good. It is only a matter of time.

Date: Wed, February 20, 2008  6:34 pm, CT
Posted by: Meli S. Manak

I am a college student who was very "pissed" when Messys took over Fields. When I was growng up, I was spoiled by my grandparents who often took me to Marshall Fields every year for my birthdays. When they took over I knew my childhood was fading away because my grandparents cut the cards and vowed never to shop there again.

This is even more sad for me because I am the 3rd generation from my grandparents who came here from Czechoslovakia (modern day Czech Republic) and they only moved to chicago/cicero because of the bohemian population. They got married and registered with MF so Im looking forward inheriting wonderful gifts. They loved MF and I hope they bring MF back before my grandparents pass on.

I went there once when a year ago and lets just say it was the shortest trip I ever been in a store for shopping.

anyways I wanted to share this with you, I was reading a book that just came out, correct me if I am wrong but its called "Loving Frank" , they had wonderful glipse of MF, talking how wonderful it was back then. To bad we cant say the same anymore about Messy's.

Gail- maybe you should make t shirts and raise money to bring back MF by buying those stocks... not a bad idea.. I would be the first one to buy it.

thanks for continuing on with this, I am on your side.

-Meli


Date: Wed, February 20, 2008  6:32 pm, CT
Posted by: Doris Ray

Hello Field's Fans,

I miss Marshall Field's so much--I have absolutely no place to shop. I need pots, pans, wine, linens, blazers, jeans, shoes, (oh the shoes!), wallet, jewelry, make-up, a make-over, massage, facial, etc., etc.

Hang in there!

Doris


Date: Wed, February 20, 2008  6:03 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Macy's is discontinuing the art sales galleries that were part of Marshall Field's for decades:

http://www.startribune.com/lifestyle/yourmoney/15801192.html

Date: Wed, February 20, 2008  4:04 pm, CT
Posted by: G

Macy's and Sandra Guy in the Sun-Times are continuing to hype as new what has been old news for almost two years now. The City of Chicago is backing a workshop for fashion designers, to be located within Messy's State Street store. Field's did so much more for our fashion community and was Chicago's most respected and most identifiable brand.


Date: Wed, February 20, 2008  3:32 pm, CT
Posted by: gle

This one's absolutely absurd! I don't know what's with the "Sun-Times" and Sandra Guy this week. She seems determined to convince the public that Messy's is thriving. This is old news since it was announced back in April 2006. What's taken so long if they are that serious?

"Six local designers to inaugurate fashion incubator"

http://www.suntimes.com/business/803570,macys022008.article

I already voiced my disagreement to letters@suntimes.com and sguy@suntimes.com .


Date: Wed, February 20, 2008  12:56 pm, CT
Posted by: Valerie Fields Fan

Out here in The Fox Valley Mall area, the Macy location now looks and feels like its last leg...it's sad.

I have passed out my buttons, walked right through Macy's to enter into the mall corridor with my Marshall Field's buttons right where everyone can see. I have to say they make for great conversation and I find myself taking the buttons right off of my jacket to hand out to a lost fan who, just like I, morn the loss of Our Marshal Field's Stores...

The good news is that they are opening a Von Maur store about three miles south of the Fox Valley Mall Macy location. I look, hope, and pray that Field's is back soon.


Date: Wed, February 20, 2008  12:09 pm, CT
Posted by: Alex G.

Does anyone know if Ms. Linda Piepho still remains as the 111 N. State Street Store manager? Did she quietly leave her position? A friend who cuts through the store to keep warm will sometimes linger and chat briefly with employees. According to her, none of the newer employees seem to know and just shrug their shoulders. One "cashier"---she refuses to call them sales associates---stated that she hadn't seen her around the store lately. (Of course, there aren't any former Field's associates to ask for a definitive answer.)

Date: Wed, February 20, 2008  10:05 am, CT
Posted by: S.B.

I can't help but think day-in and day-out how the conversion was a BIG MISTAKE, but unlike most mistakes where nothing can be done... THIS IS CHANGEABLE!

Macy's Inc. can make good and win the hearts (and pocketbooks) of MidWesterns by bringing back Marshall Field's. If Coca Cola Company can make-good on a mistake, so can Macy's.


Date: Wed, February 20, 2008  9:33 am, CT
Posted by: gle

I actually found something positive about Messy's. Now wait--it's a perfect place to go for someone who wants to be ALONE. I went through there yesterday, and it was so quiet you could almost hear the dust fall. Groups of black-garbed sales associates chatted quietly here and there, and didn't even get excited or notice when I [a potential CUSTOMER] strolled past. Intimidating-looking security guards, also in black, stood near the door, though I can't figure out why they were needed. I suddenly got an urge to bring in a pile of library books, use a chair nobody was buying and catch up on some reading. There was hardly a soul to bother you.

Speaking of reading, from what I see on comment blogs I'm starting to think Field's fans are the only people who go in the store any more. We're the ones who care, even though Field's merchandise and service is what we really want to see. I feel sorry for the building and want to check to see that it's okay. We need a buyer who cares and realizes what a tremendous potential there is in customer base for the return of Marshall Field's!


Date: Wed, February 20, 2008  9:23 am, CT
Posted by: George Miller

When the name of the Marshall Field stores was changed to Macy's, I was upset at the loss of the name and connection to Chicago history and culture. However, I never expected that the stores would be taken that down market!

In reading the directory description of Macy's as the preeminent retailer in Chicago since 1852, it would not be as bad if they had maintained the departments, merchandise, and traditions that made the store "preeminent." While Field's was known for its "unparalleled merchandise selection," if a tourist read this information in the directory, they would know that these statements were mere commercial puffery, upon arriving at the store.

Sadly, when you visit the State Street store, you find that the merchandise selection decimated, the sales staff invisible. On a recent visit they didn't have bags for the merchandise--the salesperson said that they weren't given bags for the merchandise anymore!

I feel that it is critical to the life of Chicago to have a big department store on State Street, but unfortunately, I don't know how long Macy's can hold on--less and less merchandise and fewer and fewer salespeople--but management wonders why there are fewer and fewer customers. This grand plan to reinvent the department store, is only going to destroy it.


Date: Wed, February 20, 2008  12:27 am, CT
Posted by: Darrid

Darrid has landed!

Just moved to Chicago Sunday and live less than 5 minutes from Woodfield Mall. I had to go check out the scene there and the Macy's. After all, Woodfield Mall is named after Field's and a former Sears exec.

Here are my observations of the former Field's store.

1. Overflowing trash receptacle at the door

2. Broken window, boarded up from construction

3. No Music, it was almost creepy how quiet it was

4. Floors were dirty and scuffed up in home wares

5. Sloppy "Sale" signage

6. Walked through the whole place and I know I am new here but does Chicago care about Women's bathing suits in February when it's freezing outside? I could see a few but a whole department of that? What is this Hawaii?

7. Wine department was gone

8. Cosmetics floor was dirty and the leather chairs were all ripped up.

9. Candy area was very depleted but lots of Frangos sitting there

Well that's about it for tonight.

My new email addy is darrid@darrid.com

Darrid


Date: Tues, February 19, 2008  9:25 pm, CT
Posted by: Rich W

Re: Eminem launching a line at Macy's

Celebrities, good or bad, are not going to bring back the alienated Field's customers. The only thing that is going to breathe life back into the store is to fully restore the name, designer brands, quality merchandise, meticulous condition of the store, and the superior customer service. Macy's is not providing that, and in fact the recent cuts in service seem to be making the situation worse. It really is time that the Board of Directors take a cold, hard look at the business and do whatever is necessary to fix it. In Chicago, that means bringing back Marshall Field's in the same way it was left by Target Corp. Imagine the business they would GAIN by doing just that.


Date: Tues, February 19, 2008  5:01 pm, CT
Posted by: L. Grand

There is a post on TwinCities.com about Macy's planning the next Glamorama - just one of many Marshall Field's events commandeered by Macy's (in other words, they take all the credit for everything Marshall Field's did). The writer of the article has some questions about how Macy's will pull this off in the Twin Cities since they pulled headquarters out of Minneapolis. The story is found here:

http://www.twincities.com/allheadlines/ci_8305712

I can't tell you how sick it still makes me that Macy's acts like they originated everything Marshall Field's was known for. And shame on those who published such falsehoods in the Visitor's Guide to Chicago. Has it become all right with some people to pretend these things and to promote them as facts? I am reminded of the Holocaust deniers. A far different topic and at a much more serious level, but as far as methodology and concept I see little difference.


Date: Tues, February 19, 2008  4:44 pm, CT
Posted by: gle

I made an earlier post of a February 19 "Sun-Times" article by Sandra Guy, "Customer satisfaction for Macy's increases, Wal-Mart's falls:"

http://www.suntimes.com/technology/guy/801069,CST-FIN-wallet19web1.article

I wrote the "Sun-Times" that nobody is fooled by any announcement of Messy's increased customer satisfaction. However, now Associated Press came out with a statement actually disputing the Wal-Mart part of the article, "Stocks rise as Wal-Mart posts greater profit:"

Guess you can't believe everything you read!

http://www.suntimes.com/business/801357,stox021908.article

Date: Tues, February 19, 2008  12:01 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Regarding the Sun-Times article about the study by the University of Michigan and a private research group, I have to agree that the story seemed spun in favor of Macy's. Nordstrom, Kohl's and even Dollar General scored higher. Yet, the Sun-Times showed a photo in its print edition of the Macy's awning under the great Marshall Field's clock. The story is also being run in over 75 publications with various interests emphasized depending on publication. So far I've been frustrated in attempts at finding out how we can get copies of this report, or at least a summary. I would be curious as to who they surveyed, where, when and methodology. Being able to review that information would be helpful in giving responses to the Sun-Times.

As "gle" points out, letters to the editor at the Sun-Times and other publications running the story are helpful in supporting our point. You can send letters to the editor at the Sun-Times at letters@suntimes.com.


Date: Tues, February 19, 2008  9:40 am, CT
Posted by: gle

From the February 19 "Sun-Times," Sandra Guy writes about a University of Michigan study on shopping:

"Customer satisfaction for Macy's increases, Wal-Marts falls"

http://www.suntimes.com/technology/guy/801069,CST-FIN-wallet19web1.article

I don't agree. Even though the article admits "Macy's still scored lower than its department store rivals, Nordstrom, Kohl's, J.C. Penney and Target," it still attempts to be too Messy's-positive.

Comments to the "Sun-Times" can be sent to letters@suntimes.com.


Date: Tues, February 19, 2008  12:25 am, CT
Posted by: James in MInneapolis

There is a humorous column in the Sunday Star Tribune here written by 2 guys who play off each other and sometimes can be quite sarcastic. The column is called "Withering Glance." They often mention Marshall Field's or even macy's. This past Sunday's column they were discussing the Spring fashion trends for men and mentioned designs by Paul Smith and how it is tuff to find much of his stuff in this town since Field's demise. Then they also mentioned yet another new high-end men's store to open this Spring Downtown, which will be just across from macy's thru the 8th street skyway. They stated it will be opened by a guy whose name I did not recognize and who used to work at macy's in the men's designer area. Apparently he got "out of macy's while the getting was good" was how they described it in the column...LOL.

I am looking forward to seeing the shop. The new Brooks Brothers and the new Len Druskin, both of which are in City Center, across the 7th St skyway are really great new additions to the Downtown retail scene. With the downgrading of Field's, companies are sensing a void and a business opportunity and moving surprisingly quickly to negotiate leases and get started. It's also heartening to see some additions to the Downtown scene as Minneapolis has suffered some unfortunate losses as well: Crate & Barrel pullled out in January in order to open a bigger store to include furniture, but will put the store out in Galleria in one of the affluent Western 'Burbs; Williams Sonoma also pulled out in January when that store was one of several they closed around the country in a belt-tightening they are engaged in.

Regards.


Date: Mon, February 18, 2008  11:53 pm, CT
Posted by: Marc-Boston

Drew- interesting point about adding furniture, but I'm not sure that's the magic bullet. Much like ready-to-wear, that industry has seen a massive shift of manufacturing to China and boatloads (literally) of me-too merchandise.

A large number of furniture retailers (something line 10 of the top 100) have gone belly-up in the last year - my partner is working the liquidation/clearance of another casualty in Boston this month.

It seems that the successful retailers are at the ultra-high end, where $10,000 for a sofa is a bargain, or with smaller localized companies that tailor themselves to their local customer's tastes.

Sound familiar??


Date: Mon, February 18, 2008  11:37 pm, CT
Posted by: Marc- Boston

Mrs. W-

Your friend made a very good point... Macy's West stores have always been my favorite (of all the Macy's, that is). They have always had better selections, better people, cleaner stores... better than in Macy's own "backyard" (the Northeast) or Federated's home turf (Cinci). That said, they are starting to show the same signs of neglect that the rest of the chain is experiencing.

I remember when Dayton's first bought Field's - truth be told, BATUS was _not_ investing much in keeping the stores up. Dayton's made many improvements - and it's just sickening how it's all been flushed down the toilet.

I actually believe that Lumphead has triggered a chain reaction that will kill Macy's and further damage the remaining department stores.

-Marc


Date: Mon, February 18, 2008  10:09 pm, CT
Posted by: Richard in Houston

Noted Wall Street analyst Brian Sozzi offers his opinion on Macy's (M) at Trading Markets:

http://www.tradingmarkets.com/.site/news/Stock%20News/1106923/

An excerpt:

But, with the company's recent restructuring plan in plain sight, and underperformance of the Macy's brand across the U.S. despite increased marketing dollars, we believe further pain is down the road for shareholders

Date: Mon, February 18, 2008  9:19 pm, CT
Posted by: Alex

Comment for Drew about your post of cheap chic??? I just read the article thanks to your post and don't understand the point you are making? The lines mentioned that Macy's carries are nowhere near the $20 bargains it mentions? How is the article relevant to Macy's being cheap?

Date: Mon, February 18, 2008  7:23 pm, CT
Posted by: Macy

Dispite me having the name Macy I hate the name so much.

Look-- I live in Lake Charles, and I am not surprised they're closing it. I was in LOVE with FOLEY'S, I bought my silverware, my clothes, my husbands clothes, Dooney & Bourke purses, less excluding coupons and my baby's clothes (he is now 7) and I loved it when they had 4 RED APPLE DAY SALES. Marshall Field's, I visited Michigan and saw the green script neon light store and shopped for memorbilia on the last day of the Marshall Field's/Macy's on State Street. Also, on that day, I left Chicago and went back to Lake Charles (I had stayed at Chicago 2 days before the change because I visited my friend) and then I went to shop at FOLEY'S and got lots of bags from FOLEY'S, a green, brown, and red and also plastic white bags that say "FOLEY'S always something exciting!" including those Dress Covers that say the same thing.

Love you guys, keep on LIVING THE FIELD'S SPIRIT! Macy--will change my name to Marsha...maybe ;-) ...(like marshall fields)


Date: Mon, February 18, 2008  11:39 am, CT
Posted by: JBoy5990

Last night I was looking through my beautiful Marshall Field's cookbook that I had bought in Chicago before the change. I have not read it completely through in quite some time and when I did I was to the point of crying. There is a large picture that takes up the whole page of one of the famnous clocks and it said it has kept time for so long. Well, no, it does not anymore as the store believes that for some reason it should not be fixed. I miss the walnut room, I miss frangos without the word Macys on it, and I miss the beautiful stores that were once there. I will not shop at any Macys until Field's comes back, I just hope it does. The boycott is working as nobody shops at my local Fields store anymore, and I have handed out the forever fields pins so many times, as people have stopped me seeing one on my coat. I usually just give them the one on my coat and get another one. I MISS FIELDS!

Date: Mon, February 18, 2008  10:19 am, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Last Thursday, one Maggie Frisch of Lake Forest had a letter to the editor pointing out how Macy's is "trying to rewrite history" in the "The Fall '07/Winter '08 Official Visitor's Guide to the city of Chicago".

Today's Daily Herald has a similar letter to the edtor from Ms. Frisch.

You may view and (with a login) offer comments at:

http://www.dailyherald.com/story/?id=136960&src=


Date: Sun, February 17, 2008  7:33 pm, CT
Posted by: Paul F

Macy's is launching an Eminem clothing line?

OMG just when I thought things couldn't get worse....

Perhaps next will come the Flava Flav line of menswear?

How about some couture from Dale Ernhardt, Jr?

It's the magic of Macy's! It makes customers disappear.


Date: Sun, February 17, 2008  6:54 pm, CT
Posted by: A. P.

Where is the flower show?

I've heard from James in Minneapolis and others asking where is macy's Spring flower show this year?

Well maybe this is just another "new" and "exciting" change with macy's. How can they not have flower show but have an auto show?

Remember that Macy's is sponsoring the Chevy Malibu. How about a flower show? Let's hope so.


Date: Sat, February 16, 2008  5:36 pm, CT
Posted by: James in Minneapolis

It's difficult for me to imagine an FAO Schwartz suceeding in the Nicollet Mall Store in Downtown Minneapolis. We lost our FAO store in Downtown about 12 years ago----possibly longer, when the very chic, upscale Downtown Mall called the Conservatory closed. Even when that place was still hopping, I never really saw a lot of business at FAO-----seemed more like people went in there to look at the novelites and went over to Target or Toys 'R Us to buy their toys.

On the other hand, with the loss of all the administrative offices of macy's North, Nicollet Mall has a lot of empty floors to fill now: 6,7,9,10, & 11. At least for the moment, furniture stays on 5, the auditorium on 8, and the Oak Grille and Sky Room on 12---until further cutbacks on food operations. There will certainly be plenty of space for FAO; maybe Barbara's Books would like an entire floor as well. Sunglass Hut could certainly expand their niche from 100 sq feet to an entire floor.Too bad Cooks of Crocus Hill, a Twin Cities-based culinary-specialty store got booted out to make room for Tools of the Trade-----an entire floor of their merchandise would actually be a huge draw Downtown.

Regards.


Date: Sat, February 16, 2008  5:07 pm, CT
Posted by: JasonM

Marshall Field's is so very much missed. From each wedding, graduation, Valentine's Day gift, shopping during lunch, new job clothes, etc. I think of how we no longer have Field's and how it was THE place I went to first. I haven't been inside a Macy's but the loss has given me the chance to see some new stores like Von Maur and some small shops. Still there is no place like Field's. I can't wait until it comes back.

Date: Sat, February 16, 2008  1:57 pm, CT
Posted by: Mrs. W

My husband and I were meeting some out of town guests at the Palmer House. They were from Los Angeles and wanted to see some of the sites. We took them to the Art Institute and walked through Millenium Park. Both were thrilled at the vitality downtown. We went to eat at Trattoria #10 and passed the Messy's Bargain Basement Bin on State Street. The place looks so shabby, like no one cares??As people have mentioned the clock is broken and the windows look terrible. Are there any flags flown anymore on the State Street side?

Anyway, my friend Judy wanted to go inside, we marveled at the Tiffany mosaic ceiling but that was about it. My friend is an interior decorator and couldn't believe that Messy's could be so tacky in some of their changes. She said their stores in South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa are much nicer. The store for a Friday afternoon was basically tired and dirty looking, oh.. and did I mention empty. There was a lady who got her shoe heel caught in one of the broken tiles on the State/Washington side of the 1st floor. I think Messy's is competing for the City of Chicago "pothole award"!! We made it to the third floor but we both laughed at all the "take an additional 50% off already clearanced items for savings up to 90%"!! You felt like you needed to take a shower after leaving the store. My friend said alot of the home depot type upgrades such as putting black tile over some of the nice stone floors is just disgusting looking. What a disgrace to all of us. It has gone so far downhill in just a little over two years.

Anyway, we enjoyed the rest of the day and went boutique shopping on Oak Street and headed to Bucktown for a look at the new Marc Jacobs store. We bought some nice things at many of the local stores.

Field's is Chicago as it gets!!

Mrs. W


Date: Sat, February 16, 2008  12:54 pm, CT
Posted by: William F. Z.

I just heard about the backlash from the nationalizing of the Macy's brand, and throwing the great Marshall Field and others in the gutter: the employees suffer. Over 2,000 to lose their jobs because the Macy's execs screwed up and refused to listen to us, their customers, when we told them with one voice that they had insulted us and lost us as customers. Nearly 1,000 to be laid off in Minneapolis alone -- what a shame. Are Macy's leaders as unable to admit their mistake as our nation's leaders? If so, they will lose in the end.

Local investors or a broad-based cooperative needs to organize and buy back the great flagship store when Macy's has finally succeeded in committing suicide in Chicago? Big execs talk tough in tough times, but the end of Macy's reign may be nearer than we all think.

Bill


Date: Sat, February 16, 2008  12:33 pm, CT
Posted by: tom s.

I have to say, regarding what one of many people commented re: gift giving and Marshall Fields. When I used to give gifts from Marshall Fields, people didn't even know what was in it and were like . . . Ohhhh, it's from Marshall Field's . . . I didn't even have to wrap it, the box and gold cord was good enough, I used to laugh because it could have been any ol' thing . . . (it wasn't) and they treated it as though it was the best gift on the table.

Date: Sat, February 16, 2008  8:37 am, CT
Posted by: Mrs. W

My husband and I were meeting some out of town guests at the Palmer House. They were from Los Angeles and wanted to see some of the sites. We took them to the Art Institute and walked through Millenium Park. Both were thrilled at the vitality downtown. We went to eat at Trattoria #10 and passed the Messy's Bargain Basement Bin on State Street. The place looks so shabby, like no one cares??As people have mentioned the clock is broken and the windows look terrible. Are they waiting for the complete death of the store?

Anyway, my friend Judy wanted to go inside, we marveled at the Tiffany mosaic ceiling but that was about it. My friend is an interior decorator and couldn't believe that Messy's could be so tacky in some of their changes. She said their stores in South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa are much nicer. The store for a Friday afternoon was basically tired and dirty looking, oh.. and did I mention empty. There was a lady who got her shoe heel caught in one of the broken tiles on the State/Washington side of the 1st floor. I think Messy's is competing for the City of Chicago "pothole award"!! We made it to the third floor but we couldn't believe all the "take an additional 50% off already clearanced items for savings up to 90%"!! What a disgrace to all of us. It has gone so far downhill in just a little over two years.

Anyway, we enjoyed the rest of the day and went boutique shopping on Oak Street and headed to Bucktown for a look at the new Marc Jacobs store. We bought some nice things at many of the local stores.

Field's is Chicago as it gets!!

Mrs. W


Date: Sat, February 16, 2008  7:54 am, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Sandra Jones' Saturday column on retail in the Chicago Tribune had a bit about how Guzzetta wants to open another FAO Schwarz shop in the former Dayton's flagship in Minneapolis. The FAO Schwarz official seemed a little less committed to the idea than Guzzetta. You can read the full item here.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-sat_notebookfeb16,0,6741184.story

Date: Sat, February 16, 2008  12:46 am, CT
Posted by: David

I read the Valentine's Day shopping memories at Marshall Field's of "A.Perkins" and gasped a knowing sigh. I actually like Frango Mints and miss buying the small decorated boxes for various holidays for my niece and nephew etc. They miss them too. Fannie Mae and House of Chocolates in Lakeview are delicious, but Marshall Field's across the board was scrumptuous. And, yes, no matter what holiday it was, shopping there was a celebration.

Last week I received a postcard notifying me that "Look Gallery" is relocating from the former Marshall Field's State Street. They, in conjunction with Marshall Field's had beautifully framed a French Art Deco poster for me- and at a great price. I never doubted the enormous loss this is to Chicago, but it just grows more cruelly blatent with each passing day.


Date: Fri, February 15, 2008  8:51 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Page 19 of Crain's Chicago Business (2/11/08) has a letter to the editor from Marlene Robin of Chicago.

Ms. Robin says Sears is just as Chicago as Field's. She says Sears could make a comeback if it modeled itself on Field's and filled its shoes since Chicago is dissatisfied with Macy's.


Date: Fri, February 15, 2008  4:48 pm, CT
Posted by: drew

This article describes macy*mart's newest fashion offerings as "cheap chic":

http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080215/LIFESTYLE09/802150392

According to the sidebar, macy*mart's fashion "competition" is Target, H & M, Steve and Barry's. Isn't that "exciting"?


Date: Fri, February 15, 2008  4:19 pm, CT
Posted by: drew

A friend recently helped chaperone a high school field trip to New York City. In addition to the typical tourist attractions, the itinerary provided "an afternoon of shopping." As the bus approached the Herald Square outpost of the Red Star Store, students made comments:

"EEEEwwwww, macy*s. There're in every mall back home."

"Coming to New York and shopping at macy*s is like traveling seven hours to eat at McDonald's."

"Can we go someplace else?"

She reported that very few students made a purchase at the Red Star Store. The students weren't very "excited" stating that the store WAS big, but there was nothing special in terms of merchandise or environment. The kids were disappointed that the "flagship" department store was just an oversized version of their local over-priced discount store. Nothing memorable, nothing unique, same old, same old.

Yet Lundgren thinks that the teen demographic is going to be the base of Red Star's future success--yeah, okay.


Date: Fri, February 15, 2008  4:08 pm, CT
Posted by: marcus

Well i was in a Macy's last week, and i found the customer service closed. there was a block of wood over the door and there was a sign over it and said that it doesn't allow ticketmaster or gift wrapping there anymore.

and back to the newspaper: it says that Macy's Inc. plans to close 9 stores and 3 of them in Texas including the one in Sharpstown Center, the first store that was formerly Foley's and it was the first store in Houston that was out of downtown. Also, in Lake Charles, Louisiana that they're closing also. Wow! Macy's also plans to open 3 new stores..(i think taht's what it said)

ok thank you

bye


Date: Fri, February 15, 2008  3:43 pm, CT
Posted by: Jeff

It appears that Bose is the latest casualty at 111 N. State. It's basement space appears vacant with signage directing patrons to its store at NorthBridge on Michigan Avenue. I'd imagine that the piano store and Barbara's Books will probably be the next to depart that area.

Also, on an earlier visit, it seemed to me as if Macy's had been trying to reduce the emphasis on some of its schlocky in-house brands. However, this time around I received the opposite impression. It was Alfani, INC, Club Room, Tasso Elba and Martha Stewart as far as the eye could see.

The only area of the store that had a noticeable amount of customers was the basement area, which is where Valentine's day candy appeared to be substantially discounted.


Date: Fri, February 15, 2008  1:23 pm, CT
Posted by: Zelda

Some say that we attract what we think about, that good energy flows to good energy. So today I am going to imagine what it will be like the day Marshall Field's returns in all its glory. There will be a parade down State Street, not the kind with big floats and balloons, just a parade of shoppers. There will be thousands thronging the doors as they open. Some Field's Fans and the new owner of Field's will jointly cut the ribbon. By noon the city will be filled with people carrying green bags. Champagne will be served throughout the city, starting at lunchtime and continuing through dinner into the wee hours. Chicagoans will walk around with a smile on their faces, knowing they have taken back their city. They will count the days till Christmas! Downtown will become a magnet, and people will stream in from the suburbs, from neighboring states, and once again from all over the world, to our world class store in our world class city. And all the Field's Fans will carry with them for the rest of their lives the grand feeling that we made a difference. Maybe tomorrow I'll focus on the Cubs.

Date: Fri, February 15, 2008  12:34 pm, CT
Posted by: Alan

I see the stock is up almost 7% on no real news. My guess is it's the Carl Icahn announcement yesterday. The company's under some real pressure, and it's quite obvious that the "North" region is one of the worst performing. Keep it up. My guess is that a takeover could lead to a spinoff of assets (i.e. stores).

Date: Fri, February 15, 2008  12:26 am, CT
Posted by: Tim

Thanks to those of you who corrected facts about my original post about Wanamaker's. However, the point I was trying to make

(and sorry it got overlooked because I had some of my facts wrong) is that "M" could very well reduce the number of sales floors on State Street knowing the stupid things they are doing now. It could very well be headed in that direction. So, the Wanamaker building has glitzy office space now on former retail floors (even though "M" wasn't responsible for that). Do we REALLY want that to happen at State Street? I don't think so. Yes, the goal is to keep all the retail floors and return the store to it's formerly high quality of merchandise and historic name.


Date: Thu, February 14, 2008  10:10 pm, CT
Posted by: A. Perkins

Valentine's Day without Field's

I think I liked Valentine's Day with Field's as much as Christmas or maybe even more. There was something very romantic about getting and giving a present from Marshall Field's. A present like that would always be something special and that goes hand in hand with Valentine's Day.

I never really cared for Frangos. I don't like any chocolate mints of any kind. However for Valentine's Day I could buy my wife chocolate truffles from Field's. They were out of this world!

I would also buy my wife a nice gift that was special like, perfume from Paris, a Marshall Field's exclusive, a distinctive hat or some fine jewelry.

All in all I would spend around $500 each Valentine's Day on my wife at Marshall Field's. A special day dictated a special store.

I don't have to tell any of you how much I spent at the store formally known as Marshall Field's this year. I'm sure you can guess correctly.


Date: Thu, February 14, 2008  9:06 pm, CT
Posted by: Patrick C

I work at a MACY'S in New England and you are not alone. The shoppers here continue to complain a lot about the disappearance of their beloved FILENE'S and even that of Jordan Marsh, so many years ago. Despite the continuous customer requests for better quality clothing that is not so very urban and ethnic in style, the shelves are almost totally empty of any decent merchandise - but with the store near empty it really doesn't matter. In response, of course, management holds endless seminars and meetings, after which the staff on the sales floor is accused of not properly engaging people in the store, not tempting them with our worthless Chinese-made junk and most importantly, not getting them to open a charge account. I think that's the real cause of many of the problems: Macy's doesn't really want to sell anything, they just want to finance everything.

Date: Thu, February 14, 2008  3:58 pm, CT
Posted by: Alan A

Field's must come back in quality and service as well as name. Without that, it's just Macy's. Bringing back Field's will take some patience and time.

Date: Thu, February 14, 2008  5:12 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

This page has a chronology of Macy's, Inc/Federated Department Stores' yearly returns since 1993. The largest loss in terms of percentage in those years was 2007 and the biggest gain as a percentage was 2003.

http://www.1stock1.com/1stock1_565.htm

Activist investor Carl Icahn has announced that he has upped his stake in both Macy's and JCPenney:

http://www.foxbusiness.com/markets/article/stocks-feeling-love-dow-slides-100-points_479570_2.html

Further demonstrating former Macy's North head Frank Guzzetta's statement that Macy's is no longer pursuing the Field's shopper, Macy's will launch an Eminem clothing line.

http://www.bharattextile.com/newsitems/1981757

Date: Thu, February 14, 2008  1:23 pm, CT; ammended 3:04 pm, CT with comments by gle
Posted by: Jim McKay & gle

Today's "Letters to the Editor" in the Chicago Sun-Times features criticism of both Macy's and the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau for what Maggie Frisch of Lake Forest for its description of Macy's on page 30 of "The Fall 07/Winter 08 Official Visitor's Guide to the City of Chicago". According to the letter, the guide describes Macy's as "Chicago's preeminent retailer since 1852..." and adds "The flagship store on State Street has reigned as the preeminent department store in the Midwest for more than 150 years."

You can read the full letter at: http://www.suntimes.com/news/commentary/letters/794146,CST-EDT-vox14.article

The printed visitor's guide can be viewed on line exactly as it is printed via http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/weaver/chovg307/ Be sure to flip to page 30.

Please do email letters in response to the Sun-Times at letters@suntimes.com but also be sure to let the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau know your displeasure and that this needs to be corrected for the next edition. We're working on who to contact since there is a publisher separate from the Convention and Tourism Bureau. If you find out first, please post to our blog.


Date: Thu, February 14, 2008  1:21 pm CT
Posted by: Serena Lucchesi

I returned to Chicago for Christmas after a 40 year absence. I cannot convey my dismay at what I found at Marshall Field's former site. I live in California so I can go to Macy's at any time, but the Field's Macy's merchandising is "junkier" than my local branch. I would rather shop at Target than this Macy's where $100 billfolds are in a counter bin and now perceived as devalued. What was once a jewel that was lovingly serviced by people committed to the Field's experience is now a shell filled with merchandise with no soul, the soul that was Chicago's pride and gave it an identify that was different from nationwide chain stores. I am in mourning and hoping for a resurrection not only of the Marshall Field's name, but a return to the culture of elegance and class which is so lacking today.

Date: Thu, February 14, 2008  1:00 pm CT
Posted by: Jack K

Business Week Chicago this week had a full page story on Cupid Candies and how they are now producing the one pound boxes for the Chicago area and 17 other midwest stores. The rest of the production will continue at the Pennsylvania company that picked the line up from Target. Sub headline is "Macy's chose Cupid Candies to produce the sweets as a gesture to former Field's shoppers" Hmmmmm. What a guy, Mr. Lundgren thinks that getting a local supplier will mollify us. NOT. While I am glad that the economy in Chicago Lawn will get a shot in the arm from the additional manufacturing, it still begs the question about quality goods and the Marshall Field's name. Someone on local TV did a piece on Valentine's gifts and mentioned out of date candy. I wonder how many boxes of stale Frangos (very stale!) were sold by M. After all inventory is inventory and who would worry if the consumer got something hard, white streaked or tasteless?

Was out the other night and again my Field's pin elicited some discussion and a few more pins found new homes.

JACK


Date: Thu, February 14, 2008  10:56 am CT
Posted by: C. C. Chicago

Ok Jimmy Gimbels, I can top you. It's great to find vintage Marshall Field's shopping bags when cleaning out your parents' house, but I was doing the same thing, and I found a Pendleton sweater (men's) in a white Field's Christmas box, with the red lid, with white tissue paper and the gold seal, tags still on! Yes, it's a man's sweater, but it's SO NICE, I just might wear it myself. It's from 1988 and it's like new. It's proof that classics from Marshall Field's never go out of style. It brought back that whole magical experience of a Christmas present from Field's.

Date: Thu, February 14, 2008  1:11 am CT
Posted by: LB

Thank you for your kind comments regarding the layoffs at Macy's North headquarters.

Please bear in mind that because Chicago sales did not bounce back, Macy's North had one of the worst financial performances of the Macy's divisions making it a prime choice for a shutdown.


Date: Wed, February 13, 2008  11:33 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Four more of you wrote in to offer information and "correct" facts about the former Wanamaker's flagship. Thank you very much!

Unfortunately, none of these agree totally. Stepping back, we need to maintain our primary focus and energies on bringing back Field's. It's clear that the discussion on Wanamakers has extended beyond the reach and focus of this site which is to bring back Field's. My previous post from this past Saturday evening has been simply modified to show some general information which hopefully can give us insights that can lead to a greater appreciation and more movement in our goal to bring back Marshall Field's.

Thanks for a wonderful topic--Wanamakers--which clearly is a major topic worthy of the attention of its very devoted fans.


Date: Wed, February 13, 2008  10:58 pm CT
Posted by: PaulF

In response to James in Minneapolis,

Guzetta is not on our side. I heard him lecture in Minneapolis. He has been converted. He believes in Macy's mission and he denegrated Field's.

No matter how much we would romanticize that he were not, alas, he is a dyed-in-the-wool convert.


Date: Wed, February 13, 2008  7:06 pm CT
Posted by: Judy Marth

To A. Perkins: I very much agree. Except that it would be an insult to Home Depot....Your comments just go to show how much Messy's DOESN'T care! How can they expect people to WANT to shop in a place that's filthy, run down, devoid of adequate help and stocked with junk! Are they doing this on purpose?? Are they really this stupid or are they TRYING to fold in Chicago so that they can sell the property to some condo developer? That's what I wonder...but I was at Nordstrom a few weeks ago and heard from an associate there was a rumor Nordstrom is looking to buy Macy's....anyone else hear that???

I haven't been checking the site lately as I've been neck deep in work, but I'm still with everyone.

Marshall Field's rocks!!!

Judy Marth


Date: Wed, February 13, 2008  4:32 pm CT
Posted by: Ken Allan

This tale just gets sadder as we go along, and at this point in time I feel the only hope we have here is for a struggling Macy's Inc to sell the Marshall Field's Stores, with the rights to the name and all brand names connected to it, and then our stores can be restored.

Just a question but has anyone whose income is directly connected to sales (commision departments) ever thought of a class action against Macy's Inc???

Lord and Taylor is once again the better destination that it used to be in it's pre-May Co days, and business wise it is doing great. The pending purchase of Fortunof will allow another pre-May Co Lord and Taylor feature to be restored, that being the up-market Home Goods that Lord and Taylor used to carry.


Date: Wed, February 13, 2008  3:25 pm CT
Posted by: drew

Aeropostale, a men's clothing line developed by the late 1980's incarnation of R.H. Macy's (after the Strausses, during Finkelstein, and before the bankruptcy) has since become it's own independent business and is doing very well.

http://www.smartmoney.com/stockscreen/index.cfm?story=20080213intro&afl=yahoo

Wonder why the current management team is unable to produce another line that is this popular? It is noteworthy that Aeropostle has more value and is more profitable than the "parent" company today.


Date: Wed, February 13, 2008  2:55 pm CT
Posted by: gle

Messy's is giving away free Quaker Oatmeal for Valentine's Day. They have a heart-shaped display of Quaker boxes in the window next to the Chevy billboard ads. The sign says to come in for a free sample on Valentine's Day. I guess they have to beat the competition--Walgreen's has Quaker Oats at 2 for $5.00 all the time.

Foot traffic on State Street was almost non-existant at lunchtime. A lone drummer was out there banging his head off, trying to get some attention. Crowds on the north side of Randolph Street were so fast and furious it was almost dangerous.

The State Street windows have attempts at displays again--a window of perfume bottles, a window of wine glasses, some men's shirts that look like they could use ironing, another Chevy ad, more perfurme bottles, etc. The corner of State and Randolph shows some rather icy-looking dresses that match the weather (I wouldn't want one).

The Randolph clock is still broken, with green stain under it. The Randolph-near-Wabash door is still broken. There was one guy sitting in Starbucks at Randolph and Wabash playing with a cell phone. He wasn't drinking coffee.

That's the noonday report from State and Randolph. Now I must get to Walgreen's before they run out of my Quaker Oats.


Date: Tues, February 12, 2008  11:33 pm CT
Posted by: Kurt

This past Sunday I was shopping at a local mall here in the Phoenix area and parked by the Macy's store (a former Robinsons-May). It was later in the day and I knew that the mall closed at 6pm, but fortunately Macy's closed an hour later so I could walk through on the way out.

The odd thing was it was about 5 minutes to 6 and the doors on Macy's were nearly all closed, and a manager was letting the last few people in. I asked if they close at 7 and she said yes. She then closed the door right after me and wasn't letting any other customers in from the mall. People were pounding on the doors after saying they parked by the store and noted it says open until 7 on the door. One employee yelled sorry can't help you. Why would they keep customers out when they are still open. Many of the restaurants and the other department stores in the mall are open later. Do they really have managers that are that dumb?

By the way, the store looked messy, I miss the old Robinson's may too.


Date: Tues, February 12, 2008  8:03 pm CT
Posted by: James in Minneapolis

Has there been any word in Chicagoland about the Spring Flower Show yet this year? I just chatted with Tony in Milwaukee that there has not been anything said about it here in Minneapolis yet this year. It would normally begin in about a month when it was held in the 8th Floor Auditorium. Right about now there would be press about it, interviews, articles revealing its theme and the particular challenges of achieving this year's "look", and perhaps even some designer's sketches of the layout.

So far---nothing this year. Recall that last year, macy's moved it from the 8th Floor Auditorium to the Ground Floor so that people could enjoy the shoes, handbags, watches, jewelry, budget sweaters of Style & Co.,and perfume while winding their way thru Les Jardins Africains.

Will keep you posted on any exciting announcements re: the Spring Flower Show this year and any accompanying fun reactions, such as last year's decision by the Men's Garden Club to boycott the whole thing.

Regards.


Date: Tues, February 12, 2008  6:21 am CT
Posted by: A. Perkins

macy's is finished in the MidWest!

This is not the first time this has happened. It happened before 25 years ago when macy's expanded into the MidWest. At that time, just after only two years in operation, macy's closed its Ohio and Kansas City divisions. This failed attempt to expand into the MidWest lead macy's into bankruptcy only a short time later.

Will history repeat itself again this time?

It already has started.


Date: Mon, February 11, 2008  11:27 am CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

In response to James in Minneapolis' last two posts:

It's hard to say 100% what is happening behind the scenes. I am a bit puzzled that Mr. Guzzetta would leave in what is the end of something like year two of the conversion of Field's to Macy's, especially when he said he had "$10 million" and a "three year plan" just three months ago.

Hard to say if behind the scenes that he wanted and worked for Field's to come back--but up front in the media and everywhere else that's public he voiced that Macy's was the same if not better--clearly not our position nor that of most all former Field's customers. Do people sometimes put forward one front, hoping behind the scenes they can position themselves for the inevitable turn of the other front? Sure. Yet, Guzzetta's comments at the September 4, 2007 luncheon presentation as well as the November 18, 2007 Chicago Tribune interview outright dismissed former Field's shoppers.

I would say that it was his job to champion downtown Minneapolis, especially when trying to win over alienated customers. If he was doing it out of sheer love for the Twin Cities, then I do not understand why he didn't stick around and take some of those other publicized job offers.

At this point, I think we can only take Mr. Guzzetta at face which was that he said Macy's was a better choice than Field's; he said he and Macy's would no longer address former Field's shoppers concerns and desires and, that it was his choice to continue in that job which meant promoting the conversion of Field's to Macy's. Perhaps in a few years he will shed more light on this. God bless Mr. Guzzetta.

As for James in Minneapolis wanting input on a reply to that news story, I have to come at it from a differfent vantage. Simply, Field's shoppers will never accept Field's. It's says something is terribly wrong with Macy's when one reads stories that the retail might make concessions to it's former shoppers. It shows they are arrogant to believe the shoppers need Macy's more than Macy's needs the shoppers. That's no way to win over customers be they former Field's shoppers or customers who have never shopped Field's or Macy's before. These attitudes and because Macy's is largely inferior in most every way means former Field's shoppers have been and will continue to choose other stores instead of Macy's.

Putting aside whether Macy's execs think it was a bad decision to ditch Field's in favor of Macy's, the current state of affairs is that there is a huge groundswell of support for Field's to return to its former locations. This groundswell comes from those everywhere who expect to find Field's--not Macy's--when they come to the upper Midwest and Chicago to shop. It's clear that if Field's were to come back now, it would be wildly popular and generate incredible business. Quite simply, it would be giving customers what they want. It would be The Big Comeback and by far the wisest, higest and best use of the tradename and associated assets that were Marshall Field's. In this difficult period for retailers, this could be a way for whomever owns Field's trademarks and stores to make money where other stores currently are not. I think many would make an argument that Field's is more valuable right now than it was three years ago--it's an asset that is simply waiting to be exploited and advance the profits of its owner.

As far as precedents for comebacks, our blog and press releases have featured several. Chrysler as a stand alone US company after seven years. AT&T Wireless to Cingular and then to a new AT&T Wireless. Starbucks reversing course and focusing on coffee as they started out. Ford's revival of the Taurus. The return of Lucky supermarkets after seven years of customer outcry and lost busieness when Lucky was replaced by Albertson's format in the Bay Area. Some say that these other comebacks are not exactly the same as a return of Field's. True. Field's is much greater with a much richer history and solidly loyal customer.It's come back from two fires in the 1870s and survived the Great Depression. Given the unprecedented boycotts and support some three years after it was first speculated that Macy's would convert Field's to its stores, the demand for Field's has become greater. If these other relatively lesser brands and stores can come back, then Field's can come back as well since Field's was such an unprecedented store.

Jim


Date: Mon, February 11, 2008  9:43 pm CT
Posted by: A. Perkins

I think that macy's should merge with Home Depot, that way they would own a level because they could sure use one.

On my last walk through of Milwaukee Mayfair, once a shining jewel in Marshall Field's chain, I noticed almost every one of the new and "exciting" signage that macy's installed to improve the store was crooked. Almost every red star was crooked and directional signs were crooked too. What kind of message does that give the customer?

Again, the sticker signs on the front doors were peeling away from the glass. I wish macy's together would peel away all that easily. In one area there were 20 feet of empty shelves. Couldn't they find anything to put on them? Is always the store a "work in progress?" I guess when you can't even afford new lightbulbs you can't afford to buy new merchandise either.

I didn't go down to the cellar, or should I call it now the bargan basement! Most department stores got rid of that YEARS ago, but macy's brought back the bargan basement in full force! If I want to find a pile of boxes on the floor I'll go to Big Lots, why go to macy's and pay so much more?

The whole time I was in the store I didn't see one person carrying a macy's bag. I went out in the rest of Mayfair Mall to do shopping else where and I looked to see if anyone was carrying a macy's bag. I could only find one person! When Marshall Field's was in business you would see a sea of green Marshall Field's bags. It made every day look like St. Patrick's Day!

Yes, the Mayfair macy's is dead, and that is the official word from the mall management. Remember it was mall management who stated that the business at Mayfair was down due to a lack of customers because of the down grading of Marshall Field's by macy's. These mall officials are some of the very few in the retail industry to state the truth about macy's!


Date: Mon, February 11, 2008  1:04 pm CT
Posted by: uldine mccoid

I was very disappointed to read that Marshall Field's was taken over by Macy's !! I had the opportunity to shop there years ago when I lived in Chicago and it was a wonderful expierance .I was young then and had never been in such a larger then life store .In fact my two aunts shopped there all the time and even had their things put in the stores storage for a while when they moved to California .I'm not aware of any other big store having that convience for their customers. I will never have the chance to shop there again but with all my heart I want to see the store returned to Marshall Field's . There are a lot of Macy's but only one Marshall Fields and what is Chicago without Marshall Field's and the Loop ???

Date: Mon, February 11, 2008  11:05 am CT
Posted by: drew

JC Penney thinks that Polo Ralph Lauren home goods will be a good draw during these difficult economic times:

http://money.cnn.com/2008/02/11/news/companies/bc.penney.outlook.ap/index.htm?source=yahoo_quote

Perhaps macy*mart coupons will soon offer a bigger discount on Martha Stewart merchandise to prevent further loss of market share.


Date: Mon, February 11, 2008  2:27 am CT
Posted by: James in Minneapolis

Today's Star Tribune here had an article on the Macy's changes/950 Minneapolis HQ jobs gone, etc. Interesting quote from Prof David Brennan from St Thomas University, too. He is the Marketing Instructor that keeps getting qupted that clearly sees things the same way we do. Prior to the downgrading of Field's he had already predicted that that would be a major disaster for Macy's based on a poll the Center for Retail Excellence had conducted, etc.

This latest article today states that he is very skeptical about moving the HQ of macy's North to NYC, then hiring a few local people to do some buying, etc. As we all know, macy's has already lost the customer. That's plain as day-----why would knowing whether the blue dress should go to Burnsville and the red one to Ridgedale make any bit of difference at this point? THE CUSTOMER IS GONE!!!! He knows it, we all know it, the customers in Minneapolis know it, I believe the same is true for Chicago, perhaps a few of the analysts know it, but macy's apparently does not yet know it. Let me try to be more clear---I know I have tried before, but sometimes I stumble on my words:MACY'S IS DONE IN THE MIDWEST------THERE IS NO MORE MACY'S IN THE MIDWEST. WE WILL NEVER BE COMING BACK TO MACYS TO SHOP. IT DOES NOT MATTER WHICH CITY YOU MOVE THE MIDWEST HEADQUARTERS TO----CUSTOMERS DO NOT LIKE MACY'S AND WILL NOT BE RETURNING.

Now, I am a guy who receives constructive criticism well. Therefore, if there is a way for me to make that message more clear, please enlighten me. You know I have broadcast that message many times before, but somehow it is still not clear to certain readers.

I wrote my own letter to the editor today to the Star Tribune.I will wait a few days to see if it gets published and then let you know the outcome/gist of my message.

Regards.


Date: Sun, February 10, 2008  9:34 pm CT
Posted by: James in Minneapaolis

Judging by some of the news interviews and statements here locally in Minneapolis over the last year, I see Frank Guzetta as more on our side ,if left to his own devices. However, he needed to carry the corporate line to stay employed. He has a good understanding of retail, and especially of running a large downtown store. He personally has been instrumental in recruiting more business to come downtown in Minneapolis and has been trying to persuade Nordstrom to do so.

By attracting Nordstrom downtown, that would leave us with Nordstrom, Saks Off 5th, Nieman's and macys----thereby forcing macys to step to the plate to compete with the others, the way Marshall Field's always had, and I think that was part of Franks strategy. He wanted the best downtown and then he simply had to present his competition inside to management to get the resources he needed to innovate and and be creative to create the kind of store he really wanted all along----and that was certainly NOT the kind of store that macys handed him to run. People I know who directly worked for Frank spoke well of him even though they knew who poorly managed macys is as a whole.

Different topic---with the announcement last week of the melding of macys north into east division----there is a lot of stirring downtown in Minneapolis, particularly among people I know who are really in the mood to be doing some major shopping. We were all having some discussions over several days about how we have some resources now after the holidays and a high level of interest in shopping. We really want to get going: great clothing, shoes, women's bags, furnirue, kitchen stuff, carpeting----and there is no place to go! Nordstroom doesn't cut it-----it's at the heinous Mall of America. macys has not cut it all so far and consensus is that when everything moves to NYC, it will become absolutely a hopeless cause.Several people mentioned that if NYC management is not ashamed of Herald Square, why are they permitted to retain their jobs?And none of us would have any interest in that type of shopping exoerience in Minneapolis.

Regards.


Date: Sun, February 10, 2008  6:31 pm CT
Posted by: Drew

Here's an interesting possibility. If Lord & Taylor acquires Fortunoff and adds Fortunoff's home departments to its existing stores, macy*mart and bloomingdales will face even tougher competition:

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/01/31/business/31shopX.html

Lord & Taylor, Von Maur and other premium retailers can become full-line department stores by adding upscale home stores and thus make macy*mart even MORE irrelevant to customers. Wal*Mart and Target could have the discount housewares and domestics, while Kohl's and JC Penney would focus on the middle to better lines and the premium retailers would carry the top line home goods.

Just as in shopping for clothing, shoes, jewelry, cosmetics and accessories, there would be absolutely NO NEED for macy*mart in home goods.


Date: Sun, February 10, 2008  5:44 pm CT
Posted by: Jim Richardson

Here is an Email I sent to promo@wwmt.com

Please do not give away Macy gift cards. They have destroyed The Chicago shopping experience and a lifetime of traditions and care nothing about the consumer. Many time they hagve said they intend to ignore Fields customers and indeed they have to thier demise. Please review this website www.FieldsFansChicago.org for more info.

The service at Macy's is poor, the quality of merchandise is poor. They bring that New York attitude of We do not care about you, we are the greatest, too bad for you, you will buy what we want you to buy. Take it or leave it.

You must have good store in Michigan, Here is the address for Von Maurs

Michigan Stores:

Briarwood Mall 300 Briarwood Circle, Ann Arbor, MI

Laurel Park Place 37500 6 Mile Road, Livonia, MI

Thank you

Jim Richardson


Date: Sun, February 10, 2008  4:39 pm CT
Posted by: Doris Ray

Hello Fans,

I'm still making our cause known on the Southern front!

A local retail associate was impressed by the Field's Fans' enthusiasm and decided to use the cause as her persuasive speech in her English Composition class. The young lady told me she received an "A". The professor is from the Chicagoland area and is well aware of Marshall Field's and its impact on the community. How about that?

I'm trying to get caught up with all the latest news on the website. Please know my heart is with you!

One more thing. Wasn't that a GREAT Superbowl Game? I had mixed feelings because the winner was New York, but all in all it was an excellent game. But did any of you notice the stupid Coca-Cola commercial with the 'm' Thanksgiving Day Parade ballons chasing after the Coca-Cola balloon? The 'fat' 'm' star kept popping up in the background to let you know it was symbolizing the Turkey Parade.

Just wondered if anyone noticed it.

Doris


Date: Sun, February 10, 2008  1:10 pm CT
Posted by: John Keating

Just a comment from a former Marshall Field's employee........... whenever I am in the Detroit area and drive past my old store I always think the same thing. The big Macy's star looks like a cold war communist symbol and I have a BAD feeling. I don't know if it's just me or if anyone else ever got that impression.

Date: Sun, February 10, 2008  11:18 am CT
Posted by: LiMack

Right from the start when Macy's conversion failed to "take" in the Marshall Field's markets, according to Macy's it was always "somebody else's" fault. (It was the silly boycotters not giving them a chance, it was the consumers missing their coupons, it was shoppers who needed to be re-educated, it was misguided sentamentalists living in the past, etc, etc.) These kinds of comments which Macy's management was making publicly, and to concerned employees, said it all to anyone who was actually paying attention---Macy's was blaming the CUSTOMERS. In retail, which is a purely customer driven industry, Macy's was BLAMING the customers.

As`sales fell month after month did Macy's take an honest introspective look at themselves? Did Macy's re-examine the assumptions behind some of their decisions? Did Macy's listen to any of the suggestions being offered to help them succeed in markets they were unfamiliar with? NO. Macy's management remained intractable and defiant as the bottom fell out.

Any company which consistently refuses to look within itself for reasons and answers is not a well run business. Any business which blames the customers deserves to fail.


Date: Sat, February 9, 2008&--updated Wed, February 13, 2008#160;
Posted by: Bob W and others

Note from Jim: A total of nine wrote in to correct Tim's post about Wannamaker's. none are fully in agreement:

Some certainties which could be of interest and a starting point for those Field's Fans who wish to learn more. The store today is 3 floors after several changes including May Co. retirement of the Wanamaker name in favor of Hecht's, then Lord & Taylor. The upper floors are office space, and nearly fully leased. The famed Crystal Tea Room has an existence within the building. The basement floors have been converted to the parking garage it is today. So, Macy's isn't responsible for the reduction of the Wanamaker store size. The gross footage of the entire building is in the millions but less than half of that is used for the three retail floors.

It was also noted that Macy's still maintains and offers programs on the Wanamaker organ which is trademarked.

Michael Smith offers a link to footage of the reopening of the Wanamaker building in 1991:

http://cbs3.com/video/?id=16351@kyw.dayport.com

Date: Sat, February 9, 2008 
Posted by: Chris

Even the London Times gets it. From a travel article dated 1/27/08:

". . . you can see the shopping district of the Magnificent Mile, which has every kind of store you'd hope for, including, until recently, Marshall Field's, the world's first department store, sadly rebranded as Macy's in 2006."

The full article can be read at:

http://travel.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/travel/destinations/usa/article3250571.ece

Date: Sat, February 9, 2008 
Posted by: Mike M & Jim McKay

Chicagoist has a story on the closing of Macy' North headquarters. Because it pops up on search engines, your comments are helpful. There used to be a complicated process of getting a login to post. There is a new procedure that is much easier--you may want to wait briefly after getting a new login to post.

The URL is http://chicagoist.com/2008/02/09/roller_coaster.php#comments


Date: Sat, February 9, 2008 
Posted by: L. Grand

Currently, WMMT Newschannel 3, which serves the Battle Creek, Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids, MI area, is having a Shopping Spree Giveaway. You guessed it: they are awarding Macy's gift cards.

Please take this prime opportunity to let WMMT hear your voice and to alert them to FieldsFansChicago.org and our cause.

As a Michigan resident, I can tell you that most people in Michigan are unaware of the huge and negative impact Macy's has had on communities, especially Chicago. Likewise, they are unaware of our organization and our efforts. BUT - your voice can resonate as was proven a couple of months ago when I called the promotional director at See Eyewear (See is based in Michigan); she "had no idea!" (her words) of the consumer backlash against Macy's! She thanked me for informing her and said that as for giving Macy's gift cards away, "well, we won't do THAT again!"

So please, everyone who can take just a minute to let WMMT know of your disappointment and also to let them know about our website, please contact them. Information about the promotional giveaway they have going is found here:

http://www.wwmt.com/sections/contests/shoppingspree/

Comments or questions about WWMT promotions and contests are to be directed to:

promo@wwmt.com

Let's let more of Michigan know we're here! Especially a news outlet!

Very Marshall Fieldingly Yours,

L. Grand - Michigan


Date: Sat, February 9, 2008 
Posted by: Joseph From CA

It's not just in the midwest where maintenance problems are occurring. At my local Macy's, the "up" escalator from the first to second floors has been out of service for over a week now, and the customers and staff have to rely on two elevators. All week the first floor has seemed more devoid of customers than usual. Hmmm, I wonder why. Does Macy's really not care about the upkeep of their stores, or are they too busy wasting their money flogging mediocre merchandise to notice?

Every time I walk through this Macy's and think back to when it was Bullock's and remember a time in which that building housed a department store that eptomized class, elegance, and top-notch customer service.

Broken down escaltors, boring merchandise, and half-empty stores. Yep, that's the "magic" of Macy's for you.


Date: Sat, February 9, 2008 
Posted by: Kirk in AZ

I live in AZ and I too am saddened by the loss of all May Company Stores. I never had the opportunity to shop at Marshall Fields and am sad I will never get to. I found this blog and I enjoy reading it each day to hear about your memories and all of the mistakes Macys is making.

I had a Macys charge card that I opened at Robinsons-May when I bought some furniture. Fortunately, I got the last of the May Company styles. Macys messed up and opened a Macys Visa when all I wanted was a store card so I could get my extra discount. I now think they gave me the Visa on purpose.

It took me awhile to close it due to me buying a new home and not wanting to affect my credit report. I finally sent in my request for closure through the Macys website. Here is where the fun begins!

I sent the first request On February 2. I explained how I did not like Macys and would not shop there. I received an immediate e-mail response stating they someone would respond shortly. Great I thought! They are on top of it.

On February 4, I received this response:

Thank you again for your recent email. Please accept our sincere apology for the delay in responding to your inquiry. We are currently receiving a high volume of emails. You should receive a response to your initial inquiry shortly

Ok so they are busy because they laid off a bunch of their customer service people. I will continue to wait.

This morning, February 8, I received this e-mail:

Dear Valued Customer,

Please accept our most sincere apologies for the delay in responding to your recent email. With the overwhelming success of our website, we have experienced a higher than anticipated rate of inquiries via email. We take every contact seriously and are dedicated to providing exceptional customer service. We regret that it has taken an extended amount of time to respond to you.

As a result of the delay, we feel you may have already contacted us through other means and your inquiry may have already been resolved.

If your concern has been resolved, please DO NOT respond to this email.

If your inquiry is still an open issue, please respond to this email and we will be happy to assist you as soon as possible. We assure you that any fees that may have been incurred as a result of this delay will be removed.

We thank you for being a Macy's customer and will make every effort in the future to provide you with a prompt resolution to any inquiries.

Success of your website? They assume that my request was handled a different way? WHAT?!?!?!?

I replied back with this message:

I am responding to this e-mail as requested because my problem HAS NOT been resolved. This is yet another example of the extremely poor service that Macys provides across the country. I would never have had this kind of experience with Robinsons-May, or for that matter, any May Company store. This is exactly why I refuse to shop at Macys and encourage my family and friends to do the same. We have moved on to other higher quality stores like JCPenney, Kohls, Dillards and Nordstrom. It appears as though most of the shoppers across the country are doing the same as your company announces more declining sales, store closures and worst of all, reduction in jobs. I guess you don't even have enough people to respond to e-mail inquires!

I will let you know if they finally resolve it. I am there with you in spirit and I hope for the return of our regional department stores soon!

Thanks for all you are doing...

Kirk


Date: Sat, February 9, 2008 
Posted by: Matt

I Really wanted to share this link with everyone, from TIME Magazine, 1930. I hope you all enjoy it as much as I did.

http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,881973,00.html

This is what made Marshall Field and Company what it was until BATUS cam e in, and began the whittling away of a great institution that no one outside of Chicago would be lucky enough to understand.


Date: Fri, February 8, 2008  10:43 pm CT
Posted by: Tim R

In response to the post from "jamesfrom ca" on Feb. 8, it wouldn't surprise me either if they consolidated departments and closed off entire floors at the State Street store. I had the opportunity to visit the downtown Philadelphia "M" store just after it reopened as an "M" in the summer of 2006. The store originally opened as John Wanamaker's and is nearly as grand in style as the State Street Marshall Field's. In more recent years as a part of May, it became a Hecht's, then a Lord & Taylor. What makes this store so unique is that it houses the largest operational pipe organ in the world with over 28,000 pipes. I have been to this store several times, but on the visit in summer 2006, was very dismayed to see that "M" had closed all the upper floors and the basement and consolidated everything to just the main floor and two floors above it. If I remember correctly, the store now sells only clothing and related accessories (i.e. no linens, furniture, china, etc.) I'm not sure there is even any kind of restaurant left in the store. Luckily, "M" has kept the daily organ concerts intact and visitors are still able to see the huge organ console on the third floor. However, I fear that this store and the organ is just as much in jeopardy as Field's State Street. It's too bad the Philly store couldn't have at least remained a Lord & Taylor. At least it would be on a better path than "M" is now. Very sad.

Date: Fri, February 8, 2008  10:06 pm CT
Posted by: B

Hi All

Hope you are all well

(the tornado devastation in the south is REALLY Horrible and unbelievably extensive-- Please keep them in (any) prayers.)

The consolidations are interesting--

red star wipes away midwest which WAS the former MAY Company HQ.

Of Course- Minneapolis was the last vestige of Dayton-Hudson

And Northwest was the former Bon Marche which was-- The LAST vestige of Allied Stores Corp. (red star has had a lot of time to "rid themselves" of the Allied people)

Those areas now will be controlled and overseen by traditional red star divisions. They have wiped away ALL potentially foreign non-red star influence

I am very sorry for all the talented hard working people that red star is now laying off because red star doesn't care about what their customer wants! I am afraid that a majority of those people will be former May Co. and Dayton-Hudson people.

Keep up the boycott of the red star

Thanks All

B

italbearr@yahoo.com


Date: Fri, February 8, 2008  8:44 pm CT
Posted by: Clark

Perhaps it's been mentioned: Karen Houget, Janet Grove and Terry Lundgren have made some Macy's stock transactions in recent weeks:

http://www.sec.gov/cgi-bin/browse-edgar?company=macy%27s%2C+inc&CIK=&filenum=&State=&SIC=&owner=include&action=getcompany

Example with Lundgren:
http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/794367/000079436708000012/xslF345X02/primary_doc.xml


Date: Fri, February 8, 2008  8:38 pm CT
Posted by: Jack K

Took a stroll thru the M store in Naples (ex Burdine's)as well as Dillards at the same mall. The folks at Dillards were wonderful. As I approached a salesperson she indicated that she was just leaving for lunch but to step over to her register and she rang the sale with a smile. Another sales person in gifts also went out of her way to take care of me. At Macy's I was approached and asked if I had a Macy's charge and I indicated no, and that I would never have one, that I was a die hard Marshall Fields Fan. She politely said "Thank You Anyway". The store was not as busy as Dillards.

Is is just the midwest that Mr. L is thumbing his nose at? Is he out to prove his point? I feel for all of the old Marshall Fields/Target folks from MSP who got the ax.

There were a number of folks who I met while visiting that readily accepted my "Forever Fields" pins. The Midwest ex-patriats do not shop M. Since that part of Florida has a lot of snow birds from throughout the north, there is not quite the brand loyalty we have in Chicago.

Just my observation while travelling.

JACK


Date: Fri, February 8, 2008  6:13 pm CT
Posted by: Zelda

Hi Field's Fans!

What a week it has been. I can't say I was surprised at the terrible sales report, but I can't help but be saddened by the 2300 jobless employees, many of whom were former Field's employees. My heart goes out to them. They, like us, were the unfair victims of mismanagement and general failure to see the simple truth in giving ladies and gentlemen what they want. I miss my beautiful Marshall Field's store, now in disrepair and poorly kept, my great designer brands, my Hermes perfume, my lunches and dinners in the Walnut Room and so many great sales associates that made shopping a treasured experience. You are missed, and I'm sure you must miss Field's, too.

Together, we are in this effort for the long haul and will never give up our boycott and our other numerous protest measures to get Marshall Field's restored. Until then, I remain

Your Friend in Field's,

ZELDA


Date: Fri, February 8, 2008  5:13 pm CT
Posted by: gle

Messy's has had to close stores, consolidate offices and lay off countless employees. Soon there will be nothing left but Terry Lundgren and his big ego. What's he going to do then? We need Marshall Field's back.

Date: Fri, February 8, 2008  5:12 pm CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels

I HIT THE MOTHER LODE!

While helping my parents clean out their basement, I came across 30 different Marshall Field's shopping bags. Several of the bags go all the way back to the 1960's. (I know your jealous!) I've decided to mount a few of the most unique shopping bags in plexi cases for display in my den. Somehow I doubt if Macy bags - especially the self-destructing plastic bags - will ever be collectibles.

Three cheers to the ladies at Northbrook court shopping proud (at Lord and Taylor) with their vintage Field's shopping bags! They sure attracted a lot of attention. One person yelled, "Oh my God, has Field's reopened?" Being a gentlemen, I will not repeat what she said when informed Macy's was still in place.

Three cheers to our Field Friends who used Macy's gift cards (received as gifts) for purchasing sweaters and gloves, then donating to the homeless. Thanks for telling me about your impressions of the downmarket stores and how "helpful" you found the sales staff.

Another sign Macy's is not all about customer service: More and more cash registers are being removed from the selling floor. Betcha it won't be long before they will have central cash wrap stations by the exit doors (like WalMart).

Intresting how all four people in the men's area were standing in the INC department chatting and doing a bang up job of ignoring the few people that decided to give old Macy's a try. By the way, Macy's is showing lots of golf shirts (AGAIN?)for Spring. Boy, that should bring in the customers. I hope they carry a Donald Trump or, better yet, a Martha Stewart version. And speaking of Martha, Macy's still has not decided if her name is Stewart or Stewert. Some signs are still incorrect as I reported last September.

Lundgren and team Macy's are always spouting how important it is to be in tune with the customer. Well tune into this: Bring back Marshall Field's in style, service, selection and quality.

Jimmy Gimbels ventures into Macy's so you don't have to.


Date: Fri, February 8, 2008  4:55 pm CT
Posted by: C. C. Chicago

To Central MA:

I'm not defending Macy's, but the State Street store in Chicago does sell Eileen Fisher. Why buy it at Macy's when there is an Eileen Fisher store at Watertower Place?

To Gayle:

Osco has OVERPRICED American Greetings cards, more expensive than Hallmark. When I think of the beautiful cards, stationery, and pens Marshall Field's used to have in the basement at State Street, I could cry. Parts of the old department have been walled off! Beautiful cards can be found at the Art Institute of Chicago store.


Date: Fri, February 8, 2008  4:13 pm CT
Posted by: drew

So macy*mart's latest strategy to reconnect with lost customers is to de-centralize operations and to establish regional districts:

http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/business/s_551155.html

Perhaps the "powers that be" at macy*mart have FINALLY realized that a one-store-fits-all market isn't working and isn't going to work.

HERE'S WHAT SHOULD HAVE BEEN DONE IN THE FIRST PLACE following the take-over: Use the economy of scale to offer great values on standard merchandise such as Gold Toe socks, Kitchen Aid mixers, and Nike shoes found in all department stores. Then add some good quality private label merchandise available ONLY at macy*s "family" of stores.

Allow each division to operate under its own name with local market variations. Each name could have a * in the logo to indicate that it is part of the macy*s family: Filene*s, Foley*s, Kaufmann*s, Marshall Field*s, Strawbridges*s. All stores would feature core merchandise, macy*s house brands as well as localized items. Nationwide advertising could say "available at macy*s family of department stores."

Each region could have its unique retailers and corporate operations could be centrally located for cost savings. Perhaps this new plan is a step in the right direction by doing what should have been done before--combine the good will and acceptance of traditional retail icons with efficiency of operation.


Date: Fri, February 8, 2008  3:09 pm CT
Posted by: C. C. Chicago

Did anyone else notice this dress? I call it the "Macy's dress." It's black with a vertical white stripe down the front , a white stripe at the neckline and a white stripe at the hem. They've been advertising it in evey other circular in the newspaper since about October. It (obviously) didn't sell in the fall, it didn't sell in the winter, and I'll bet it won't sell in the spring. I wonder how many of them they had made, 10,000? 20,000? More? 50,000? Who is in charge of manufacturing and design here? It's obviously a man with no clue.

NO, all women don't want the SAME dress that their best friend has. It doesn't matter if you call it Alfani or Charter Club or whatever other fake brand you make up. I'll bet that same dress is still for sale next October. (That is, if Macy's is still open then.)


Date: Fri, February 8, 2008  2:28 pm CT
Posted by: Matt

I don't know if anyone linked this before, but it was quite insightful. Let me know what you think.

http://www.flakmag.com/opinion/marshallfields.html

Date: Fri, February 8, 2008  10:32 am CT
Posted by: LiMack

For more than two years Macy's has been all about "spin" rather than merchandising execution. They issued press releases -one after another- that even a smart grammar school student could recognize as being filled with falsehoods in an effort to "make a silk purse out of a sow's ear". The spin served to keep Wall Street and some local media at bay for a time, but did nothing to fix Macy's true problems, or to build Macy's into a strong or successful retailer.

The time for spin is past. There is no possible way Macy's management can continue to spin away their empty stores, their plummeting sales, their dissatisfied former customers and their massive layoffs. Macy's has spun itself out of control and nearly out of business.

Hmmm, I wonder what might have happened if Terry Lundgren had listened to his customers instead of to his own corporate spin.


Date: Fri, February 8, 2008  10:03 am CT
Posted by: JBoy5990

I hope that this consolidation of regions for Macys does not affect the store on state street being influenced by the crappy store in Herald Square. I am just so sick of all of this nonsense that Lunkface has done. First he dismantles every regional department store that has character that are outside of NYC and then he converts them to a fancy looking version of Kohls (if that). What makes me even more mad is when May (MARSHALL FIELDS PARENT) was bought out by Federated, Lord and Taylor was bought out too as it was part of May. But Federated sold that department store chain and kept it alive WHY? Because it was from NYC!!! I think that it is this stupid NYC vs CHicago crap that this man thinks he is doing the country a favor. WELL GUESS WHAT... IT DOESNT YOU STUPID CEO!!! And what makes me even more angry is that none of the other department stores that were taken over were exploited like Marshall Fields were. WHY ARE FRANGOS BEING SOLD THROUGHOUT THE USA? WHY DO THEY SELL ! THE FIELDS COOKBOOK ONLINE AT THEIR WEBSITE? I know, its the only store that had that kind of rich history from the greatest city in not only the midwest but the entire country, and it was the only store that Lunkface decided was the biggest threat to his own marketing strategies. WHY DIDN'T THEY SELL FIELDS WHEN THEY SOLD L&T? I fear that this consolidation will be the end of the Field's name through Macy's, as how can NYC take over the operations of the former Fields HQ in Minneapolis. BUT THIS BOYCOTT IS WORKING AND EVERYONE AROUND THE COUNTRY IS TAKING NOTE, AND WITH OUR PERSERVERENCE, WE WILL BRING THIS STORE BACK AND THE NAME OF MARSHALL FIELDS!

Date: Fri, February 8, 2008  9:26 am CT
Posted by: PaulF

Brief report taken from "The Clark Howard Show."

http://clarkhoward.com/shownotes/2008/02/06/#13196

"Good deals on the way as retail slows down

CLARKONOMICS: Mid-priced and high-end retailers have been reporting terrible January sales figures. This trend was not expected when you consider that sales of gift cards were slightly up during the holidays. The only retailers who made out OK were the deep discounters and warehouse clubs. Macy's has just announced they're going to be cutting more than 2,000 jobs amid their January sales decline of 7 percent. When you factor in inflation, the mega-retailer has fallen off a cliff. Part of the problem has been the company's corporate arrogance. They decided all their goods had to be self-branded and got rid of their beloved Marshall Field's imprint (and a lot of warm, fuzzy customer goodwill in the process).

This downward trend in retail means there are going to be deals in the mass affluent market (Coach, Tiffany, etc.) and at mid-priced clothing retailers. One area where you won't find bargains is in the world of flat-screen TVs. There's just too much demand still. Prices in some cases are higher than they were in October. Meanwhile, the Wii still is in short supply. The Wii is allowing nursing homes to have far more activities than they could previously, thanks to its virtual simulation of physical activities.


Date: Fri, February 8, 2008  5:08 am CT
Posted by: John D

Thank you, Jeff S., for your report from the former Field's store at Louis Joliet Mall in Joliet, Illinois. It's become quite apparent that macy's is infamous for placing the repair of broken escalators at the bottom of their priority list, along with most aspects of their operations and way of doing business.

Even though the Joliet mall's owner, Westfield Properties, does not own the department store building, still the executives at Westfield should be told of macy's neglect because it affects the reputation of the mall and has a negative influence on the surrounding stores if people are not shopping at one of its anchors.

I invite Field's Fans to write to Westfield's Corporate Offices at the following link to inform them of the neglectful unsanitary filth of the store in general and the restrooms, as well as the UP escalator that does not go UP.

http://westfield.com/corporate/about/contact_us.html

Date: Fri, February 8, 2008  12:13 am CT
Posted by: I-Want-The-Real-Macys AND Fields

Well gang...it's coming true. The Macy's East conditioning is setting in. This was predicted.

1) May company purge.

2) Removal of former Marshall Field's execs.

3) Take away mid-west management.

It's Macy's East with a bit of West Coast flavor thrown in because they believe that's where they have the most Macyization in place. Anything but May or Field's people leading things. That's what they think will drive the "new" Macy's customer.

================

Do they actually believe it is the Marshall Field's and May Company people who are responsible for the failure of Project Star when it is New York's lack togetherness who has gotten this thing upside down from the start ?

HAS ANYONE SEEN THE SHAPE HERALD SQUARE IS IN ? No decent formal table cloth restaurants, furniture department on the outs, and miles of ordinary clothes ready for the people from the international market coming in to enjoy the low dollar.


Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  pm CT
Posted by: jamesfrom ca

Some thoughts, some of my predictions

1) Wouldn't surprise me if the Thomas Pink store closes in the next six months.

2) Wouldn't surprise me if the 28 Shop closes too, "the 28 shop is no longer a fit for our business model"

3) Wouldn't surprise me if Barbara's Bookstore closes.

4) Guzzetta was a good company man who needed his job, he said the offical party line that Lundgren fed into his ear piece. Guess what? you still lost your job because in the end it's never Lundgren's fault it's your fault Guzzetta! It's Chicago's fault, it's the weather's fault, it's the economy, Lungren's never going to cop to anything. Even though this was his baby. If it was a sucess Lundgren would have taken all the credit, that's why the Guzzettas of the world are so convenient and expendable when you are 62.

5) Wouldn't surprise me if The Walnut Room closed and was subcontracted out to an outside business.

6) Wouldn't surprise me if they "consolidate their selling floors for greater customer service" ie they will bring it down to 5 floors (or even 3 or 4 ) for State Street

7) Wouldn't surprise me if they bring the selling floor up to the store windows for the majority of the windows on the State St. store. They did that at Union Square, San Francisco only on the corner of Stockton and O'Farrell are there real department store windows. The rest of the windows are facing the cosmetic dept. Now that one I think I will be right on, since it's already done.

8) Hmm? what happened to the "macy's culinary council" Ask Rick Bayless but I doubt he knows either.


Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  pm CT
Posted by: Daniel W. Harcourt II

Fellow Fieldsfans,

It's still not too late to take advantage of Terry Lundgren's stupidity. His incompetence is becoming more relevant with each new scheme he implements. Macy's stock, ticker symbol 'M', is still very cheap because of Lundgrens stupidity. Now is the time for Fieldsfans to take action and buy stock in Macy's....then show up at their annual shareholder meeting later this year and demand the return of Marshall Fields! Just so that people know, owning one single share of Macy's stock is all it takes to be able to attend-and speak-at a shareholder meeting. For roughly $25.00, plus any commission fees charged to buy the stock, any Fieldsfan can tell Terry Lundgren AND the Macy's board of directors to bring Marshall Field's back to Chicago.

It's time to play Chicago Hardball and show Terry Lundgren and Macy's senior management just how serious we are about bringing back Marshall Fields. We want our Marshall Fields!

Daniel W. Harcourt II
Schaumburg, IL


Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  11:16 pm CT
Posted by: PDX Tim

Here is the story from the Portland Oregonian, it is pretty harsh:

http://www.oregonlive.com/business/oregonian/index.ssf?/base/business/1202358324167590.xml&coll=7

The downtown store, formerly Meier and Frank, just had its first holiday since it was remodeled. My commute takes me by the store every night, and there were never many people inside at all. The plans were started by May Co. but it is obvious that it was Macy's that designed the interior as you can tell from this picture:

http://www.oregonlive.com/cgi-bin/prxy/photogalleries/nph-cache.cgi/cache=3000;/olive/images/7489/A019.JPG

Yikes! Freaky looking mannequins, and white everywhere. I haven't gone in there but it hurts my eyes to even look in the windows. And of course those commie looking stars everywhere. Funny how none of the people in the picture have a Macy's bag....

All these new changes (how many business plans is this now, I have lost count) are accomplishing is getting rid of the long time employees (mostly from May Co it seems, except here in the NW which were probably people who go back to the Bon Marche or Allied days) and replace them with "regional" new hires who I am sure are paid a LOT less. So the stores are supposed to be better now that there are less experienced people involved? What a joke!


Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  11:14 pm CT
Posted by: Gail

To the hundreds and hundreds of former Marshall Field's employees in Minneapolis who have lost their jobs this week: Thanks for all the great memories. For years you helped to bring us a wonderful shopping experience at Marshall Field's. We will never forget the great store that you helped build. Please leave your memories on on our blog. We'd love to hear from you.

Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  6:04 pm CT
Posted by: Jeff S

At the Joliet store they still haven't fixed the up escalator. No wonder the second floor was pretty devoid of customers.

Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  5:59 pm CT
Posted by: Central MA

I'm a native Illinoisan (and former Field's employee), now in MA. Have followed this site since the beginning and have, even at this distance, supported the boycott via letters to Terry Lundgren, Amy Hanson (M's North), and of course never setting foot in Macy's.

Yesterday my husband heard the news about Macy's North & actually called me at work to tell me--he knew I'd be thrilled to hear it! (And he's a MA native who never got a chance to shop at Marshall Field's, but knows that there is something from Field's in every room of our house.)

The news about M's North made me nostalgic for "Teflon Amy" Hanson, so I located the letters I wrote back in 2006. She'd sent me a Field's cookbook, then phoned me about my "concerns" about M's decimation of Field's. She invited me to check M's brands against those I once bought at Field's. I responded by letter, telling her that M's struck out. They don't sell the following, or anything remotely comparable: Eileen Fisher, Dana Buchman, Quiozel, Thomas O'Brien, Waterman, Crane's, Filofax, Field Gear, Country Shop....

Here are the last 2 paragraphs of that letter:

"You mentioned touring the newly-renovated dressing rooms at the Nicollet Mall store, and how much money Federated is spending on infrastructure. Will the impressive investments in the stores continue past the takeover? My guess is that, if you visit unannounced, youC-ll find stained carpet, pins and hangers and maybe even clothing on the floor, and torn wallpaper and chipped paint... $7-10 per hour and customers in their faces because the store is no longer Marshall FieldC-s, the merchandise substandard and overpriced, and all the coupons and C,salesC. are confusing will probably not be great incentives for the C,valuedC. employees to keep it all together...

"Substance matters. MacyC-s doesnC-t have it. Never will. Chicagoans, and Marshall FieldC-s shoppers, have tried to tell Federated that for over a year now. 57,000+ people, including myself, have pledged to boycott Federated holdings including MacyC-s. Since youC-ve had a long career in credit and finance youC-ll likely be among the first at the company to (FINALLY) hear itC3and that may very well be the only first for MacyC-s North!"

With the latest news, I just had to wonder what Ms. Hanson, soon to be the sole survivor of Macy's North, is thinking...


Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  4:34 pm CT
Posted by: Lani C.

The foundation is beginning to crumble . . .

Same store sales down 7.1%, management layoffs, reorganization . . .

As consumers continue to pull in the reins, look for Macy's to start selling off the regional chains it gobbled up. To stay afloat as long as possible in the major markets (such as Chicago)it will sell off chains in "second tier" markets first. But this will eventually snowball into selling off its big city chains.

Will my prediction come true? Who knows? But it makes me happy just to think about the scenario.

Keep the faith!


Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  3:09 pm CT
Posted by: George Miller

A colleague of mine likes to quote Macy's motto: "Be everywhere, do everything, and never fail to astonish the customer."

These latest events illustrate how while trying to do the first part, they miss the second part, and they fail miserably at the third.

It is so sad that the arrogance of Lundgren and his ilk is having such a negative impact on so many--investor, supplier, employee, and of course, the customer!

At the rate they are going Macy's will only succeed in destroying the department store, not reinvent it as they promised.


Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  1:26 pm CT
Posted by: Gayle

Hubby and I had to run a few errands at Oak Brook Center. I can't bear to even walk through the M store, so we don't park there anymore (even though parking is plentiful). Can't park by Nordstrom's or L&T because it's too crowded. We compromised and parked by Sears. As we were cutting through the store, I saw a huge display of nice-looking cards and gift wrap. As I got closer, I realized it was all Papyrus brand...in Sears!

So here it is folks: if you're looking for downscale and cheap American Greetings cards, you can shop at Osco, Walmart, and now Macy's! If you want nice Papyrus stuff, you have to go to Sears. Lunkhead has done such an exemplary job of listening to his customers...I was worried about where I'd stock up on American Greetings in case my local Osco Drugs ran short....


Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  12:25 pm CT
Posted by: JW

Please do what you can to bring our Store back, I don't shop at Macy"s, and will never. Thank You

Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  12:20 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

It's kinda odd that Frank Guzzetta is retiring...last November 18, the Tribune ran a story where it talked about his "three-year plan" with a $10 million budget. When did that clock start ticking? It seems strange that he would schedule a retirement during the three year plan.

It will be helpful to the cause to write letters to the editor in regards to the Tribune and Sun-Times stories. Adding to the Topix forums that often follow a Tribune article on line is helpful but the letters to the editors that wield more influence with the editorial board. Even if your letter is not printed, they know people are still hot on this topic when they get letters.

These suggestions are made for responding to media articles or TV news segments:

* If submitting by US Mail, make a photocopy of your letter.
* If submitting by the internet, send your "Letter to the Editor" in a standard email message. Do not use web page forms or blog sites for the newspapers, unless you absolutely have to. If you submit via email, you have the opportunity to cc: or bcc: a copy to yourself--submitting via other methods on the internet means you probably won't have a dated copy of your response, if you get a copy at all. It is very important that you keep a copy for your records.
* The Letters to the Sun-Times should be sent to: letters@suntimes.com
* The Letters to the Tribune should be sent to: ctc-TribLetter@tribune.com
* The Letters Chicago Tribune Magazine should be sent to: TribMag@tribune.com
* The Letters to Crain's Chicago Business should be sent to: letters@chicagobusiness.com
* Please remember to include a daytime phone number for verification purposes.
* Be certain to indicate in your letter that it is "for publication."
* Remember, items submitted to the "letters to the editor" section should not be cross-posted to other forums like the fieldsfanschicago.org blog. The publications request exclusivity.
* Be succinct as possible. Longer items don't have as much of a chance of being published. While there are many facets to the loss of Field's, consider focusing on just one or two facets that will best help the larger cause.
* Just to emphasize, even if your letter does not get published in print or web media, remember that the media takes note of the public's pulse. Every letter reminds editors and producers that this is still indeed a very important issue.



Links to the Sun-Times and Tribune articles can be found in several of the below--and do remember to respond whereever you can offer commentary in other publications and websites too. It makes a difference.

In respect and admiration for all you do to bring back Field's,

Jim


Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  12:20 pm CT
Posted by: drew

The excitement continues. Now one of macy*mart's jewelry department operators will close 94 leased locations:

http://biz.yahoo.com/ap/080207/finlay_macy_s.html?.v=1

Perhaps these 94 store locations are earmarked for closure. Maybe these locations will no longer offer "fine jewelry" and will sell only ouse brand hcostume jewelry, thereby taking the stores even more downmarket.

What other "magic" does Lughead have planned for the months ahead?


Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  10:45 am CT
Posted by: gle

Here's another from today's "Tribune" on Lunkhead's chronic split with reality. The shareholders need to oust him. He's the worst thing any company can have.

He says, "But we have to be sure we are totally tuned into the customer and individual stores while carrying the national brand." So, homoginizing doesn't work so well after all?

"Macy's Focusing on Local Stores"

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/sns-ap-macys-changes,0,7112539.story

Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  10:28 am CT
Posted by: Chris

From the Cincinnati Enquirer link below:

"Nielsen, based in Schaumberg, Ill., found that gasoline prices led one in four consumers to shop at supercenters, megastores and big-box retailers during the holidays. That's a problem for Macy's, because every time a flat-screen TV is sold at a discount club, that's potentially a couple of Trump suits and ties not being bought at Macy's."

Up until about a week ago, one could have purchased a flat screen television at the State Street store as Bose had space in the lower level adjacent to the food court. That space is now closed. I pass through the lower level of the State Street store four to five times a week on my way to the CTA Red Line station and have done so for about eight years or so. The number of shoppers I see in the lower level has continued to dwindle. I wouldn't be surprised if the Barbara's Bookstore down there went next - every time I pass by the clerk on duty is just sitting reading a magazine or a book. There's very few people sitting in the food court or at the tables in the Starbucks. A space that used to be fairly busy throughout the year with people shopping or having a bite to eat has turned into a ghost town.


Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  9:44 am CT
Posted by: Jack from Boston

I will not step in another Macy's store again until they bring back Marshall Fields and Filene's in Boston. I now spend my money in Lord and Taylor rather than place $$$ in Macy's pockets. I came to Chicago often and enjoyed the great experience that Marshall Fields offered. This same experience was provided in the former Filene's stores that Macys has now ruined. In fact, each Filenes store offered a different set of merchandise depending on its location, now its the same thing in every store - most of which you can find in Lord and Taylor, Nordstroms and small shops or internet sites. Send Macys back to New York!!! Who needs them.

Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  9:40 am CT
Posted by: James Miller

This morning on the news I heard that Macy's sales are down 7 percent this January from the same period last year.

Where are all of those new customers who these guys were going to replace the Marshall Field's customer base with?

Restore Marshall Field's and prevent continued decline.


Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  7:48 am CT
Posted by: Darrid

The End Is Near!

Wall Street and Macy's Investors ... WAKE UP!

The latest move Macy's has made is merely a "knee jerk" reaction to nationwide faltering sales. I can only imagine meetings at home office, "Oh Crap! Sales are awful, let's come up with some "new and exciting" smokescreen to pretend we are actually doing something aside from listening to our customer base." or "What's wrong with those customers?"

Here are a few things I think about the changes.

1. More reduction of staff, less creativity and loss of experienced workers. This move doesn't translate to helping sales, it's a band aid for saving money. In reality, less people to service the customer.

2. Combining regions only makes it more difficult for investors to "attempt" to analyze former sales of regions. For example, Macy's North, which was almost entirely former Field's stores will now be lost in the larger pool. No doubt the changes will be made before Macy's updates its regional sales statistics on their website.

3. Upper management is so far removed from day to day business and doesn't have an evident training program for staff. Remember that the sales staff is where the "tire meets the pavement". Without proper tires Macy's is just another sitting car on the side of the road with a police impound ticket on it.

4. Martha, Donald, Diddy, Jessica and Tommy??? Perhaps a visit from the "Ghost of Elvis" is next? Hello!!! It's not working! Weren't they the last wave of "saving graces" for Macys'?

5. In Lundgren's words, "we believe our new strategies will speed up decision making and simplify the process of working with our vendors." Absolutely right! Less people to argue with that the nationwide changes we have made aren't working. The more people that agree, the faster we can sink this ship!

6. More New York influence in Chicago. We can all see how "wonderfully" it's working so far.

7. The more sales falter, the more reason to dump years of tradition established by local stores. "No Soup For You!" (Lundgren as the Soup Nazi from Seinfeld) Cities across America are being "punished" for not shopping at Macy's.

8. Guzzetta & Soroka retiring? What a shock!

So when does the madness end?


Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  6:36 am CT
Posted by: JC

The story of macy's latest scheme, as reported in the Minneapolis Star-Tribune...

http://www.startribune.com/business/15357026.html


Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  4:22 am CT
Posted by: Michael Mc

Mr. Lundgren, do not attempt to fool the public. It isn't the national economy that is responsible for your losses. Shoppers are boycotting your stores. Get this, Marshall Field's began in a era similar to current times & it survived a lot longer than you. Do not "dummy down" us, or your stores. There are shoppers who look for quality, service, & NOT the mass marketing that is so very apparent in your Macy marts. You are not Mr. Sam Walton. There is a niche for his marketshare (already well filled & exploited). Give it up. The public (especially Chicago & Detroit) wants what Marhsall Field's gave us. Leave!

Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  4:12 am CT
Posted by: Michael Mc

Good to read comments that are so like my observations here in the Detroit area. The Somerset Collection is a very upscale mall that caters primarily to the wealthy sector of Detroit (aka, auto execs, etc.). The Macy's at Somerset could be called a bowling alley for all its' appearances. NO ONE shops there, honestly. It really is a LOSS, both to the Somerset shopper & to the Macy's CEO. Detroit EMBRACED Marshall Field's when it came to town (converted from the original city "brand" Hudson's (parent of Dayton-Hudson's.) NYC influenced markets do not impact the rest of the USA, Mr. Lundgren. We are NOT impressed. Take a survey of JUST Somerset shoppers (the customers with taste & economic means) & get an opinion of what they think of your store. Incidentally, this is the very same market of customers who travel to Chicago (support Marshall Field's) & visit NYC, too. MACY's sucks (it deserves this poor grammatical comment). GO MARSHALL FIELD"S!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  2:10 am CT
Posted by: Marc-Boston

Was in Seattle yesterday ... talk about ironic timing, I was walking through the MacyMart downtown when the news hit... lots of very disgruntled folks in their black uniforms grumbling about how much they hated Macys and missed The Bon Marche.

Back at home in Boston last weekend, I needed a new pair of shoes. Since we don't have our new Nordstrom yet, the only options in the mall were MacyMart, Lord & Taylor, and Sears. I ended up at DSW and found a perfect pair of shoes. Just to let Macy's know - I put it on my Macy's Plat. Visa. The week before, when traveling in Chicago, I scored some great deals at Carsons.

In each of the shopping trips before, I would have likely bought something at Marshall Field's, Bon Marche, or Filenes. The new Macy's continues to not have what I want, when I want it, or where I want it. And like so many of the other posters here - my business has gone elsewhere. By the thousands.

The board really needs to stick a fork in Lundgren - he's done. He's ruined MANY companies now, destroyed billions in shareholder value, cost thousands their jobs.

Well, at least he has the right qualifications to hold a high public office now.

I don't know what's more saddening/maddening - the mistakes being compounded, or the fact that the one making the mistakes is still steering the titanic while the orchestra plays.

God help the folks who will be looking for jobs - and the shareholders (and retireees) who have lost their nestegs - and the vendors who have seen their business evaporate. \

-Marc in Boston


Date: Thurs, February 7, 2008  12:39 am CT
Posted by: Blake

I don't know what impact Guzetta's departure will have on future plans for Marshall Field's stores. Bear in mind that Frank Guzetta has been no friend of Marshall Field's, so Field's Fans have no reason to mourn his departure. In many public statements, Guzetta fully supported Lundgren's decision to eliminate and replace Marshall FIeld's. Guzetta was also responsible for much of the execution of Lundgren's misguided plan to eliminate and replace Field's.

Furthermore, it's often suggested that since Guzetta worked for Field's prior to Macy's takeover, he had a special understanding of Marshall Field's importance to Chicago and to customers and communities throughout the region. This is actually quite untrue. Guzetta had very little history with Field's and spent the vast majority of his pre-Macy's career on the East Coast with Strawbridge's and other May Company stores. The May Company moved Guzetta to work with Field's for only 8 months before the May Company and Field's were gobbled up by Macy's. His role at Field's was to oversee the integration of Field's into the May Company - a role he continued to play for Macy's.


Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  10:48 pm CT
Posted by: Alan

These people still don't get it. How will merging Chicago and Minneapolis into the East Coast and St. Louis and Indianapolis into the Deep South make the stores any more "local"? It sounds to me like more and more decisions about the local stores will be made from New York. So much for "respecting Field's traditions." On the upside, this does seem to indicate that it's not just Chicago that's dissatisfied with all the changes. Management took several large chains in entirely the wrong direction.

Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  9:16 pm CT
Posted by: James in Minneapolis

Hi all---

I received a phone call this eve from an old friend who works for macy's. Friend wanted to discuss the news releases of today so we dissed for about 25 minutes on the phone. Friend is as dismayed as we are about all of it. Friend stated with some level of certainty that it is just a matter of time until the food operations close at Nicollet Mall in Minneapolis as they just did not think they "could get away with it right now-----the Minneapolis crowd would cause way too much uproar." Friend also stated that the days of the 8th floor Auditorium Christmas show are numbered as well. Now that Minneapolis is part of macy's east division and not a major player by itself, there will not be that kind of spending anymore.

It's sad and yet part of me smiles inside because the New York boys have no idea of what inferno they would be playing with by taking away the "8th Floor DAYTON'S Christmas Show". We shall see.

Regards.


Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  9:13 pm CT
Posted by: JC

Here is the macy's latest story from the St. Louis perspective.

http://www.stltoday.com/stltoday/business/stories.nsf/story/F6E4B6B08E95C13D862573E70068EA55?OpenDocument

Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  9:08 pm CT
Posted by: Steven Jepson

Lundgren is missing the point when he says, "(Marshall Fields) was not doing well when it was called that." What he's completely unaware of is that his stores are complete CRAP.

I now live in the Charlotte, NC area, and my wife had to venture into a Macy's since we received a giftcard for that store (and we couldn't get rid of it on an exchange site!). The store she went into was a new store in a fashionable mall less than a year old.

Her opinion: the store is worse than Wal-Mart! The layout is confusing, the clothing is horrible, presentation is on par with Kmmart, and sales help is nowhere to be found. She noticed that virtually everything was on deep clearance, and it's not the right time in the season (I've worked retail and I know the sales trends). A store only does this when it CAN'T SELL ANYTHING. She did find something decent (a $280 suit marked down to $70) and found the sales clerk to be rather off-puting - and on her cellphone!

At every Field's I've ever been to, the sales staff was courteous, the store well-laid-out and clean (this store was FILTHY, especially the dressing rooms), and the quality of the apparel was on par with the high-end stores. Well, duh - Field's WAS a high-end store!

Quality is better at Target than at what passes as the 'mighty Macy's.' And yes, you can find better stuff at Wal-Mart.

Shoving Macy's down the throats of Chicagoans has made them vomit. And they'll continue to do so until the Red Star is removed from the grand State Street store, and something more on the level of a higher-end Bloomingdale's is put in it's place, with a proper name:

MARSHALL FIELD'S.


Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  8:13 pm CT
Posted by: JamesfromCa

I find it amazing that this whole mess is because of one man yet he is still not called out on it. Over 2,000 people will be loosing THEIR jobs over his incompetence, stupidity and arrogance. This whole scenario is tragic as well as pathetic. So many opportunities were willfully missed if not destroyed because of one man. He inherited one of the greatest retailing names in the business world, a business that was actually on the upswing and all he had to do was build on it or at the very least "just steer the ship", Target gave him a remodeled store, a hip, fashionable POV and image, a list of brands and designers that not even Saks or Neiman's had, names any of the competition would have loved to have gotten their hands on, and they did to his loss, and what does he do? He throws it away! But then I was never surprised, look what he did to macy's. He ran that into the ground. I don't like being right but everything me and others predicted is happening. This as long as the "three headed one" is in power is going to get worse. If I am thinking this TPTB must be talking amongst themselves too.

Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  7:49 pm CT
Posted by: Steven

No news with the news as far as I'm concerned. Macy's and the analysts and reporters who cover Macy's still don't get it.

Look at this bit from a reporter in Cincinnati: "Nielsen, based in Schaumberg, Ill., found that gasoline prices led one in four consumers to shop at supercenters, megastores and big-box retailers during the holidays. That's a problem for Macy's, because every time a flat-screen TV is sold at a discount club, that's potentially a couple of Trump suits and ties not being bought at Macy's."

Full story here: http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080127/BIZ01/801270378/1076

And this bit from today's Sun-Times: C,We need to be better at (understanding) variances in region and stores,C. Lundgren said. C,We cannot be a cookie cutter organization.C.

Why Macy's will continue to fail in Chicago is in both those little bits.

No one in Chicago is interested in a Donald Trump suit. Really, no one. Has anyone at this forum met anyone who will admit that he bought a Donald Trump suit? And wears it. In public.

Marshall Field's stood for quality and that is why Field's proudly put its name and address on its Marshall Field's, Field Gear and 111 N State brands. As you read the posts here, you'll find a unanimous praise for Marshall Field's private label goods.

Macy's stands for garbage and I wonder if that is the reason the Macy's name is not put on the embarassments that are its clothing. Surely, with all that's been invested in this supposedly glorious brand name that we in Chicago were supposed to bow down before and worship, with all that investment, wouldn't you think that Macy's would stamp Macy's on every article of clothing it has manufactured?

Why Alfani? Why Charter Club? Why all these bogus names, when surely the Macy's name has enough cache and drawing power to sell these items? Why resort to paying Donald Trump to use his name? Isn't the suit good enough with the Macy's name?

Well anyway, we in Chicago are not impressed and not fooled. We want our suits made by Hartmarx. It's that simple.


Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  6:48 pm CT
Posted by: Lucy H

Hello Field's fans!

Lucy from Minneapolis here again. I just found out that the speech delivered by M**** North exec Frank Guzzetta that I referred to in my post last December has been made available on a website at the University of Minnesota. Here is the link if any of you are interested in what was said.

http://www.carlsonschool.umn.edu/Page5283.aspx

Once you are on that page, scroll down to where September 4, 2007 - Frank Guzzetta is listed and click on it. It is an MP3 file. Hopefully it won't give you any problems.

With today's news of Macy's North being shut down, I'm happy to see that this campaign is working. I'm not happy to see people lose their jobs, but if M**** had listened to the populous, then Marshall Field's would still be around, and these poor folks would not be out of a job.

Take care all. We have won a major battle today!

Lucy


Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  6:39 pm CT
Posted by: Marianne

This is just a word to all my former Field's sales associates, who were always so helpful and so lovely. I've seen a few of you on the street and told you I just can't get myself to shop at Macy's. Some of you are worried that you won't have any jobs if Macy's doesn't succeed, and some of you are sympathetic to the Field's Fans and hope we win out and Field's is restored. Just as we are hanging in with our boycott, we hope you will hang in, too. We want you to be around when Field's is restored!

Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  6:30 pm CT
Posted by:

sn't it strange that most of the positions affected are former May operations? Or that they're gutting the last of the May Co. offices in St Louis? Sounds like this is a power grab - wipe away the last of the minds that have yet to be assimilated - or lobotomized.

Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  6:18 pm CT
Posted by: Keith K

This year like many past,we made the trip downtown to see the Christkindl fest and see the tree in Marshall Fields ....each year the crowds gather on the upper floors high above the Walnut room , children running up to get a glimpse of the tree and all its color.This past Christmas season , we made our way up to see the tree to the surprise of 2 people besides ourselves were gazing at the tree, looking down on the Walnut room,to emptiness, no excitement , no Christmas spirit,just a tree......what a shame ... The decorated windows failed to leave us with the feeling of, this is what we look forward to every year..........was'nt just a name you changed it was its heart and soul...so many companies try to new and improve something not broke , but in the end only return to the start ... ask Coke

Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  6:08 pm CT
Posted by: M Baker

I hope you're successful bringing back Field's. My Frandmother took me there once a month when I was a kid. I moved to Los Angeles and I had withdrawls. All the stores had all the SAME merchandise! If soneone took you there blindfolded you couldn't tell the difference when the blindfold was taken off. All owned by Federated. I bought all of my business suits through a salesman in the State Street store. Came in a couple of times a year but was very happy to work with him over the phone. But Field's also needs some old fashioned buyers to get the right style and quality of products. Nobody that worked for Federated!

Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  5:09 pm CT
Posted by: gle

The "Sun Times" and "Tribune" just released articles about consolidation of Macy's North offices to Chicago locations, closing the Minneapolis headquarters. The articles state Frank Guzzetta, Macy's North chairman and CEO, will retire in the spring, as will Chief Operating officer Robert M. Soroka. The "Tribune" adds that about 2,550 workers will be eliminated as part of the restructuring.

While it is obvious Macy's is not thriving, it seems Lunkhead doesn't want to give up his pride. In the "Tribune" he says, "My view is we need to do everything we can to satisfy the local consumer in Chicago. Chicago is an important market for us. Bringing back the name (Marshall Field's) isn't the answer. (Marshall Field's) wasn't performing well when it was called that."

Huh!!!!!? Macy's is definitely not the answer, and has put the store in worse shape than anyone thinks Marshall Field's might have been in. At least everyone still WANTS Marshall Field's back--that is how to satisfy the local consumer in Chicago. We've made our point clear. Further "restructuring" by Macy's won't warm our hearts. It's pathetic.

The financial reports to come out Thursday should be interesting.

The "Sun Times," "Macy's opening new offices here, closing Minneapolis division:"

http://www.suntimes.com/business/779664,020608macyweb.article http://www.suntimes.com/business/779664,020608macyweb.article

"The "Tribune," "Macy's to eliminate Marshall Field's headquarters, consolidate regional offices:"

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-biz-wed-macys-m-restructuring-0205feb,0,3328846.story

Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  5:07 pm CT
Posted by: M Schulz

Send a letter, let him know how you feel...

Mr. Terry J. Lundgren
Chairman, President and CEO
Federated Department Stores, Inc.
7 West Seventh St.
Cincinnati, OH 45202


Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  4:45 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

I doubt they will be placing "Field's-minded" staff in these "regional" offices. I think it is likely they will be coming in with a "Macy's-centric" vantage. In other words, Lundgren will obviously be putting his people in these positions. Just think if they instead put in the Amy Meadows-type of employee instead. I can't imagine Lundgren ever intending to bring back Field's. Rather, we boycott--not even buying a Frango--to put pressure on the board, shareholders, etc to get new management that sees the ridiculousness of the loss of Field's to the corporate bottom line.

Field's Fan R.M. astutely pointed out in an email to me that by combining Macy's North with Macy's East (probably their best performing division), Lundgren, et al have an easier time concealing the poor performance of former Field's locations since the stores out east can offset the weaknesses here.

I wouldn't be surprised if Macy's eventually consolidates its headquarters at NYC from Cincinnati. Would that take a vote a shareholders meeting?

Looking forward to your comments and ideas.

Jim


Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  3:36 pm CT
Posted by: Judith W

I love my Marshall Field's button! Here in Arizona I live walking distance from a Macy's store. I refuse to set foot in that mediocre, generic mess. They could reduce everything by 90% and I would still boycott them. Their miserable sales performance is not the result of a sagging economy. Their greed, stupidity and bad taste is at fault. Bring back Marshall Field's. It will thrive. I can't wait to shop there again!

Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  3:32 pm CT
Posted by: LiMack

Sandra Guy's article in the Wednesday SUNTIMES points out that while the Minneapolis Regional office of Macy's is indeed being incorporated into New York, there will actually be new district and regional offices IN Chicago with new jobs right here to address this market's unique issues. I feel this is a positive step for our cause in that it returns some specific focus to Chicago and appears to further segregate/isolate the original Marshall Fields locations at State Street and in suburban Chicago from the other stores which later became Fields through consolidation with Daytons and Hudsons. Despite Lundgren's statement that a return to Field's name is not "in the cards" I believe this administrative change makes Marshall Field's a much more likely and practical possibility than at any time in the recent unsettling past. Furthermore, when Lunkhead is finally gone, and/or Macy's is bankrupt, which may be very soon, it will make the sale of these coveted and valuable original Fields store locations easier to manage for an acquiring merchant who understands their true worth and potential.

http://www.suntimes.com/business/779664,020608macyweb.article

Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  3:19 pm CT
Posted by: John

http://dailybriefing.blogs.fortune.cnn.com/2008/02/06/macys-goes-halfway-in-reorganization/?source=yahoo_quote

MacyC-s goes halfway in reorganization

"Still, the move raises as many questions as it answers. Wednesday move leaves three regional operating groups - now called MacyC-s East, MacyC-s Central and MacyC-s West - while eliminating MacyC-s North, MacyC-s Midwest and MacyC-s Northwest. But why not just eliminate all the regional groups? A spokesman didnC-t immediately return a call seeking comment. "


Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  2:02 pm CT
Posted by: Greg W.

Marketwatch:
http://www.marketwatch.com/tools/quotes/secarticle.asp?&sid=2735225&symb=M&guid=5699670&type=10003

Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  2:00 pm CT
Posted by: S.B.

Macy's Tribune article about the layoffs and closing of Macy's North (the former Marshall Field's headquarters).

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-biz-wed-macys-m-restructuring-0205feb5,0,3328846.story

Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  1:34 pm CT
Posted by: drewa

Sales down 7.1 percent and 2,300 ADDITIONAL jobs lost--"the magic of macy*s"

http://www.reuters.com/article/marketsNews/idUKN0630050820080206?rpc=44

Perhaps the departure of the current President, CEO, Chairman Terry (Troika) Lunkhead will be demanded by the shareholders.


Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  1:12 pm CT
Posted by: Matt

WOW!

Read the Trib today. Macy's is ELIMINATING the North Division. I could easily go into a diatribe, but why bother, you didn't need a Harvard MBA to figure that out. They are also combining the other divisions, affecting 5100 total positions nationally.

Here's the link for all my darlings who visit this site:

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-biz-wed-macys-m-restructuring-0205feb5,0,3328846.story

God Bless!


Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  1:05 pm CT
Posted by: drew

So macy*mart plans to "strengthen market localization" in its latest attempt to shore up sagging sales:

http://biz.yahoo.com/bw/080206/20080206006082.html?.v=1

DUH! Didn't "market localization" previously exist in operation of Marshall Field's, Kaufmann's, Filene's, Foley's, Burdine's, Famous-Barr, Strawbridge's, Rich's and other regional department stores? Isn't it very interesting that Lunkhead has proposed divisions based along the same geographic areas served by the original regional department stores?

Wasn't having a nation wide chain of macy*mart stores carrying identical merchandise supposed to "re-invent" the traditional department store? Weren't sharehholders supposed to be realizing major profits from all the alleged savings on advertising and shopping bags? Didn't all of Lunkhead's surveys indicate that shoppers didn't care about the regional names?

How interesting that the North division has been merged with the East division. Are you folks in the former Marshall Field's service area being singled out for some reason by losing the Minneapolis corporate offices? Does Lunkhead think that direct control from New York will somehow turn around the Chicagoland stores?

What other "exciting" changes await shoppers in the days ahead?


Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  12:58 pm CT
Posted by: Lee

Macy's down 7.1% for January same store sales!!! Announces new organizational plan to cut costs and consolidate divisions. Here come more layoffs!!!! Check out their website for more details. Hopefully Macy's will be back in New York and only in New York by Christmas 2008. Lets all keep our fingers crossed!

Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  12:53 pm CT
Posted by: Christopher S

Drum roll please . . .

Macy's executive offices just announced a "restructuring" of the Macy's divisions in their press release. As I think anyone could have predicted who has followed this blog, Macy's North (the former administrative seat of Marshall Field's in the Twin Cities) is now being swallowed into Macy's East in New York. Several other regional offices are going to be incorporated into larger ones as well (including Macy's Northwest as part of Macy's West).

As an aside: havenC-t the Alfani suits in Cincinnati read this blog or the complaint column in the Tribune. The number one thing that Chicagoans loathe about MacyC-s is that it is a New York-Cincinnati company with no understanding of the Midwest. This decision is basically another slap in the face to Chicago.

More importantly, however: Why does Terry Lundgren keep killing this company so slowly? Just be done with it, and admit that ALL decisions and buying power is in Cincinnati. Of course, he needs to admit that MacyC-s is HIS colossal mistake.

Also, as others and I predicted many times here, Frank Guzzetta is finally "retiring" (he is 62). Is "retirement" a euphemism for C,let goC.? When all is said and done, I think Frank's retirement is a sad and anticlimactic ending to Macy's North--I wish that Frank had been louder in protecting the Marshall Field's name and legacy. For the past year he seemed like nothing more than a yes-man. Certainly, he could have seen the difference in quality between the Marshall Field's stores of 2005 and the Macy's of present day. It is as though he were a jeweler who had gone from selling diamonds to selling cubic zirconium (and trying to pass them off as diamonds).

I hope this is the end of the Marshall Field's debacle. I hope that the board of directors gets wise in April and fires Terry Lundgren and restores the top-selling regional stores and brands. It can only help their bottom line and heal some hurt feelings across the country. If not, I hope that they will at least sell the Macy's stores in Chicagoland and the Twin Cities to a company willing to restore Marshall Field's name and legacy. Is that so much to ask?!

To Jim McKay, Gail, Mike and all of you Marshall Field's fans: keep up the good work and don't let greedy corporate America forget the significance of Marshall Field's in Chicago and elsewhere. You are the real heros in this saga.


Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  12:29 pm CT
Posted by: James in Minneapolis

Hi All----

Most people who know me will say I am quite the optimist. However, I am VERY skeptical about closing down the Minneapolis office and running everything out of NYC as a way to better respond to our needs in the Midwest. Just saying.

Regards.


Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  11:52 am CT
Posted by: Field's Fan

Stories are starting to roll in about the closing of several of Macy's regional offices. This includes rolling Macy's North into Macy's East at Heral Square. I wonder if they will even keep Cinci.

Womens Wear Daily:
http://www.wwd.com/article/print/122337

Chicago Sun-Times:
http://www.suntimes.com/business/779664,020608macyweb.article


Date: Wed, February 6, 2008  4:21 am CT
Posted by: flyboyhouston

I was in Chicago yesterday. Went to the macy-mart on state street. Someone bought a bottle of (Marshall Fields branded) Frango chocolate flavored liquor. They put it in a plastic bag... The customer asked for a paper bag and they said they didn't have any and made no effort to get one, so they had to 'double bag' it in plastic.

This place just keeps getting worse and worse. Last fall 2007 I thought things were bad there, but nope, lower my expectations even more. The clock was the wrong time, escalators broken, elevator made weird noises (yep), parts of the store closed/curtained off (why?), few salespeople (especially on mens and upper floors and basement) and even fewer customers, the basement really had a "bargain basement" appearence with merchandise poorly displayed,etc, store was dirtier than usual, no one in restaurants (but it was like 6pm- so not like it was dinner time or anything)....Ok, I'll stop now.

The same can be said for Watertower too: lack of employees/customers, broken/out of order things, downscale merchandise, dirty...

But Saks Fifth Avenue was nice and Bloomingdales was toloratable; both with more employees and customers. What a differnce a few years makes; M.F. going from Saks quality to JCPenny, only even less attractive stores...


Date: Tues, February 5, 2008  10:12 pm CT
Posted by: Cindy Gre

I agree that Macy's has been virtually empty this past month. We keep on! Marshall Field's has such a sentimental and special place in our family. My daughter, who is 10, decided to do her history fair project on the great Marshall Fields. What a tribute to the store and fans!

Date: Tues, February 5, 2008  9:46 pm CT
Posted by: JBx

I will never shop at Messys or their sister store boomersales. I do not even want to know what they have done to the beautiful lake forest store and i don't want to know what will happen to it now that is has closed. I will not by anything from any of the stores until Lunkface is out and the stores that they destroyed are turned back to their original stores. Is there a worse business decision than to alienate literally millions of customers across the country and spend millions of dollars of your own money on taking their brand away and then spending millions on putting yor own brand up? What do they get in turn? I know stock prices that are down more than 50% from a year ago. This is really working as I know that the two former Fields stores that I would shop at have no people in them at all. I will continue to go to Messys for one thing only: to hand out my FOREVER MARSHALL FIELDS pins that I received in the mail. I can not believe how many people have stopped me regarding that pin that I proudly wear on my coat. I always have some in case somebody wants one. I think that if we all have our own number of pins, we could get literally millions out there. This boycott is working and hopefully Messys will leave these stores and hopefully someone will be able to take over these stores (but think what an investment that would be !).

Date: Tues, February 5, 2008  8:35 pm CT
Posted by: Tim Robison

It is interesting and enlightening to read the new comments when they are posted. I hope Mr. Lundgren "tunes in" to this site periodically but I'm guessing, probably not since he seems not to be interested in returning to the people what has been taken away from them. I have told other people about this site and many seem interested in the cause.

Some, however, say it is a lost cause, that there's no way Marshall Field's will return, even just the name. But to that I answer that I'm reminded of an instance when I lived in South Bend, Indiana about 15 years ago. The L.S. Ayres store in the Scottsdale Mall announced it was closing due to poor sales, etc. It was another case of where the parent company (not sure if it was May at that time or not) put their lower quality merchandise in that store and their better stuff in the University Park Mall store. Anyway, the store had their going out of business sales and the store was shuttered shortly after Christmas. Not long before the final days, the mall management came forward and said that L.S. Ayres had several years left on their lease. Mall management threatened legal action if the store left. The case did end up in court and at one point it was announced if the mall won, the store would have to GO BACK IN BUSINESS! I thought, that'll NEVER happen.

Well, it DID happen and some 7 months after the store closed and was stripped bare to the walls, they had to open up again and were there another 7 or 8 years! While I'm not trying to compare this to any of the Field's/Macy's situation, what I want to point out is....what seemed like an impossible situation in a store going "back in business" it happened. Therefore, I think it certainly would be possible for some sort of Marshall Field's "resurrection." I haven't been to the State Street store for more than 2 years, but from all I read here, it sounds like I don't want to go. How sad.

Every time I visited Chicago, Marshall Field's was the first place I'd go. It's not only a store but a tourist attraction for heaven's sake! When will Mr. Lundgren get this through his thick skull of his! Can we still buy a share of Macy's stock to become a disgruntled shareholder!


Date: Tues, February 5, 2008  6:22 pm CT
Posted by: Michael F.

To all who head to Chicago to shop. Macy's is a wanna be Marshall Fields. I refuse to buy a single thing there..Even at Christmas when I use to look forward to buying my Marshall Fields Ornaments. I just couldn't bring myself to do it..I am a die hard..I still have my Credit card from 1988..Bring it back ..Thanks

Date: Tues, February 5, 2008  6:08 pm CT
Posted by: Maripat

I'm a Chicago girl, transplanted to S. Fl. I would not even think of shopping at Macy's after they homongenized Marshall Field's. Chicago deserves better.

Date: Tues, February 5, 2008  2:33 pm CT
Posted by: Joseph From CA

I have now seen first hand the effects of my own desire to spend less at Macy's. They downgraded my card status from Platinum to Gold, which means I spent less than $1,000 at Macy's last year. Oh what a pity, I'm so broken up over it. Acutally I'm surprised they didn't downgrade me last year, but they must have factored in all of my 2006 Field's purchases, but I digress. I had been Platinum status since 2003 but ever since they stole Field's away from us, my money has been trickling elsewhere.

Until they bring Field's back, Macy's will continue to see less and less of my money, and that's all there is to it. Keep up the good fight fellow Field's fans. We're winning the war, and it's only a matter of time before victory is ours and we have our beloved Marshall Field's back.


Date: Mon, February 4, 2008  9:01 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Macy's January 2008 sales reports will be released this Thursday, February 7.

Fourth quarter earmings release for the three months ended this past Saturday (including the holiday season) will be released on February 26.


Date: Mon, February 4, 2008  8:46 pm CT
Posted by: Zeldaon

Hi Field's Fans,

DO check out L. Grand's new website:

http://www.matchlessmarshallfields.blogspot.com

It's really terrific. Make sure to click on the "advertising" section; the end brought tears to my eyes.

I'm writing also to let you know that business at 111 N. State Street is practically grinding to a halt. I walk through the store twice daily 5 days a week, and today it felt eerie. On my way to work, I saw hardly any people on the main floor and zero (zero!) macy's bags being carried. Later in the day I saw 3 bags total. The real shocker is the low body count. There are more sales associates than customers. It's sad because it doesn't have to be this way.

Our movement is snowballing. I'd love to be a fly on the wall the the macy's board meeting, and now, thanks to certain Field's Fans, I WILL BE.

It's hard to feel any pity for macy's.

Your Friend in Field's,

Zelda


Date: Mon, February 4, 2008  8:19 pm CT
Posted by: Jon C.

Many Field's Fans will recall Chicago Tribune Columnist Ellen Warren's column published March 28, 2007 entitled, "How's Macy's Doing?" The column appeared about 6 months after the macy*fication of Chicago and the Midwest began. Readers submitted replies in high volumes, making it one of Ms. Warren's most popular columns in responses.

For the benefit of Field's Fans who have begun reading this website in the past year, here is the link to Ms. Warren's column with the reader comments following. Longtime Field's Fans should find the comments interesting as a refresher.

http://featuresblogs.chicagotribune.com/shopping_ellen_warren/2007/03/hows_macys_doin.html

Field's WAS,IS and WILL ALWAYS BE Chicago! Boycott macy's (and bloomingdales)

Chicago IS Marshall Field's!


Date: Mon, February 4, 2008  4:58 pm CT
Posted by: Marie, former Field's (and Macy's) Employee

I'm a former Field's employee who ended up as a Macy's employee. And then I quit.

Even after I left, I still have problems. They farm out so much at Macy's, including the W-2 statements. I've had a really hard time getting the W-2s in a less than complicated way, thanks to having to deal with an outside party Macy's hired. I never had this problem with Mayco and Target.

I still abhor what Terry Lundgren has done to our lengendary and famous store that was known for so long as the best. With Macy's stores doing so poorly, any good exec would admit his mistake and reverse course. Not Mr. Lundgren. He could care less about the communities his company should be serving and his employees. This is all about ego and face-saving. Even a local deli owner got it right the other day. An immigrant, relatively new to this country, he saw my Field's button and angrily commented that "Macy's sucks" and doesn't deserve to be in business.

Please someone buy out Macy's and get rid of Lundgren and his Yes-men. Bring back Marshall Field's. Help restore the business and jobs that represented what was best about Chicago and, for that matter, The American Dream.


Date: Mon, February 4, 2008  3:59 pm CT
Posted by: Sarah

I saw a very smartly dressed woman walking down Michigan Avenue this past weekend with a Macy's shopping bag - a very rare sight indeed.

The bag tore as the woman passed by me and her discount goods fell to the wet pavement.

She laughed as she looked at me and said, " That's my punishment for shopping at Macy's!"

As I helped her gather her merchandise, she told me that she had only allowed herself to shop at Macy's because of an extraordinarily deep discount offered on bed sheets.

We shared our distaste for Macy's decision to eliminate Marshall Field's and both expressed our hope that Field's is restored soon.

I have yet to meet a neighbor or former Field's customer anywhere that doesn't hope for Field's return!


Date: Mon, February 4, 2008  10:16 am CT
Posted by: Robert

I had the opportunity to visit Yorktown Mall yesterday in west-suburban Lombard. On the way there, I went past the former Marshall Field's furniture store in Oakbrook - now branded "Macy's." In spite of many shoppers out during the pre-Superbowl hours at both the Oakbrook and Yorktown malls, I didn't see a car in the parking lot at Macy's furniture store. In fact, I'm wondering if it's even open anymore. It was the crown jewel of Field's furniture stores...pure elegance and top-notch customer service.

Date: Mon, February 4, 2008  10:13 am CT
Posted by: A Friend in the Northeast

Just a quick question as I live in the Northeast: Is Macy's closing all of the restaurants in the stores, as well as getting rid of the wine and gourmet foods? It's so sad if they did. Can someone please update me?

Response from Jim:
Macy's is closing restaurants at certain former Field's locations with certain eateries at Oak Brook and Vernon Hills among them. None have been announced as closing at State Street at this time.

Wine is being discontinued at pretty much all stores with State Street as an exception.


Date: Mon, February 4, 2008  12:14 am CT
Posted by: matt

"What Women Want," was on yesterday. I forgot all the great scenes in Marshall Field and Company. I got upset watching it. Started out nostalgic with a smile and my face, then turned not so happy thinking about the slum lord who owns the place now. Then I caught the scene where Mel Gibson and his daughter are having lunch in Field's "Marketplace," --but you will remember, as run by Macy's, the City of Chicago had to temporarily close down last summer because of the fruit flies.

I shut the movie off after that.


Date: Mon, February 4, 2008  12:13 am CT
Posted by: JB###

What makes me even more upset is why Federate inc. (now Macys inc.) decided to sell off Lord and Taylor, but not Marshall Fields. They said that it was because Lord and Taylor conflicted with their "brand". It is just sick. I hope Terry Lundgren gets ousted along with Donald Trump who I hope goes bankrupt again, and most importantly I hope Marshall Fields comes back someday.

Date: Sun, February 3, 2008  9:53 pm CT
Posted by: Richard in Houston

My family just watched one of our favorite movies, "North By Northwest". Cary Grant is escapting the 20th Century Limited as it arrives in Chicago with Eva Marie Saint. She tells him he needs to change out of his disguise - the red cap uniform - into his suit. He replies "Where do you expect me to change, in Marshall Field's windows?" My, how I miss Marshall Fields and the other glamorous regional stores.

Marshall Fields is also mentioned on the Silver Streak movie. When the train is out of control, the agent tells the railroad operator they had better stop the train because it is headed straight for Marshall Fields.

Marshall Fields IS Chicago.


Date: Sun, February 3, 2008  9:34 pm CT
Posted by: sally m

what can i say but macy's sucks. i live in the new orleans area and we know how it is to lose a local icon holmes and maison blanche. these stores was bought and the stores will never be the same. we visit chicago every year and my first stop was always field's. when i learned that macy bought field's on my visit in 2006 i was sick and vowed to not to shop at macy's here in louisiana.

from a friend of fields in louisiana.


Date: Sun, February 3, 2008  7:40 pm CT
Posted by: R Becker

Yes and now the smallest Marshall Fields store in the beautiful town of Lake Forest, Il. was closed by Macys the end of January 2008, as discussed in the past few weeks. I believe it opened in 1931 and Lake Forest was the home town of the Fields Family. As noted here, it was a small boutique type of store with three floors of merchandise. The ladys gave the best service they could with the limited staff that was available. Most had many years of service and were very dedicated to their clients.

I would like to thank all of them for the devotion to Fields and their customers.


Date: Sun, February 3, 2008  9:02 am CT
Posted by: BT

While I now live in San Jose, California, I was born and raised outside of Peoria, Il and then moved to Chicago for six years after graduating from college, I have found memories of Marshall Fields and all that makes Chicago great.

I look forward to the day when Marshall Fields is the premiere destination on State Street.


Date: Sat, February 2, 2008  11:05 pm CT
Posted by: Cheryl B

Since the switch to Macy's, the new hires working the floor and replacing the fine Field's staff don't have the same class. It's as if these new hires could be working anywhere. Some are even rather sloven. Field's staff were special, they made you feel special. That's because Field's was always special. Macy's will never be special. Macy's does not comprehend "special".

There is no more class in Macy's. Bring back Fields!


Date: Sat, February 2, 2008  7:22 pm CT
Posted by: Mark W

I appreciate the campaign to bring back Marshall Field's, and I love the buttons, the protests and all the other activities. This is truly a grass roots iniative, and I think we, collectively, have and will cotinue to go far.

Date: Sat, February 2, 2008  3:42 pm CT
Posted by: PaulF

In response to the article about Sears and Ed Lampert linked by Brad back on Wednesday, it sounds as if Cramer is beginning to come around. Back when Lundgren first breached the grand folly of mothballing Field's, Cramer was on board with Lundgren.

More recent writings suggest he seems to be coming around. I only hope that now he would more clearly speak out about what a failure Macy's/Lundgren's experiment has become, in more depth than the two tepid snipes he included in that article on Sears.


Date: Sat, February 2, 2008  1:29 pm CT
Posted by: drew

Conspicuously ABSENT from the Mercedes-Benz fashion show review is mention of such "exciting" and "exclusive" designer lines such as Tommy Hilfiger, Tasso Elbo and Donald Trump:

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/08033/854128-314.stm

Evidently Mercedes-Benz doesn't want to be associated with macy*mart's fashion offerings.


Date: Fri, February 1, 2008  8:05 pm CT
Posted by: JasonM

I walk past State Street everyday and everyday there is less and less people in the store (I've never been inside). Yes, it is post holiday and not many people shopping right now but the store is dead.

As we continue our writing campaigns... let's remember to include a sentence or two that "As Marshall Field's the State Street store was a $250 million a year asset to the city of Chicago. As a Macy's it is failing, because of Macy's decision to not listen to thousands of customers."

Problems with the State Street store are solely and completely the blame of Macy's execs including Terry Lundgren. Macy's made the decision to not listen to its customer!!!! The failings at State Street indict Terry Lundgren and demonstrate why his decision to delete Field's is failure to Macy's and its shareholders. Macy's has to keep the store open or they will anger Chicagoans even more--all other Macy's locations would fall like dominoes with out State Street.


Date: Fri, February 1, 2008  7:36 pm CT
Posted by: drew

News stories report that cosmetic company Estee Lauder has been hurt by the reduced number of stores caused by Macy's closing stores as part of the May merger.

Although some former May Department store locations now running as Macy's are coming back in terms of Estee Lauder sales, I can't believe that most former Field's stores are among those.


Date: Fri, February 1, 2008  10:42 am CT
Posted by: Corey Kurtz

Hi Field's Fans-

I know it has been a while. I know everyone is keeping up the fight to bring our beloved Marshall Field's back!!

I just wanted to share with everyone that is looks like another community appears to have been inspired by our work and could use our help and support. Bon-Ton is looking at closing the Carons's in Hammond due to some lease wrangling. The City of Hammond is working with comunity organizations to help keep Carsons's open. Carson's has had a presence in Hammond for about 50 years.

Check out this site:

http://www.gohammond.com/web/index.php

This is for a community in Indiana that might be losing a more than 50 year old Carson Pirie Scott and Co store. Sign the petition and check out the pictures of their rally.

Teri Lunkhead thinks that people are just emotional about a name!!! It's much more than that. These folks are just as passionate about their Carson Pirie Scott as we are about Marshall Field's!!!

It doesn't take much time to click the link and sign their petition so lets give Hammond our support and show them that Carsons is special and needs to stay.

Thanks and Warmest Regards!!

Corey Kurtz
Waunakee, WI
Field's (and Carson's) Fan for Life!


Date: Thurs, January 31, 2008  9:54 pm CT
Posted by: AP

It's important for us consumers to stand up to the big corporate America juggernaut and say, "enough with pushing us around and insulting our intelligence by ignoring our preferences and telling us 'it's the same quality' when it isn't."

Date: Thurs, January 31, 2008  4:43 pm CT
Posted by: Gail

I'm proud to see Chicagoans and lovers of Chicago stand up for their city and what makes it truly great.

You are all to be commended for doing the right thing as a "David" in the face of a "Goliath".


Date: Thurs, January 31, 2008  4:36 pm CT
Posted by: Gabriel Madrid

Daniel Burnham also designed the Gimbel Brothers building on Greeley Square in Manhattan one block away from the RH Macy and Company Building on Herald Square. The Gimbels building was completely renovated and now houses the "Manhattan Mall".

Note how Marshall Field's was always a must visit in Chicago and was considered "As Chicago as it gets". I say this because at least until 1990 ,well before Macy's became bland, tasteless, and homogenized, Macy's Herald Square had a large banner atop the brownstone's corner that read: "If you haven't seen Macy's, you haven't seen New York". This can be confirmed by looking up an old photo of Macy's 34th Street.

It is a shame that they have tarnished the reputation of nearly every traditional store in the nation. At the current rate of business, it is only a matter of time before Macy's and its red stars are exorcised from Chicago.


Date: Thurs, January 31, 2008  4:09 pm CT
Posted by: L. Grand

HELLO HELLO HELLO, FELLOW FIELD'S FANS!

I've been working very diligently on my weblog to compliment Darrid's site (darrid.com) and also to keep that MARSHALL FIELD'S name out there. I've posted a number of blogs so far but my favorite work has been completed and I'd like you all to come check it out!

"THE MARSHALL FIELD'S RETRO AD SHOW!"

Just go to my website and click on "Advertising" under the INDEX. Field's Fans will especially like THE ENDING! CHECK IT OUT!

http://matchlessmarshallfields.blogspot.com

IT'S GREAT!!!

Very Marshall Fieldingly Yours,

L. Grand :-D


Date: Thurs, January 31, 2008  3:31 pm CT
Posted by: Darrid

With Valentine's Day coming up, I'd like to remind you of an excellent Frango alternative for your loved ones: Von Maur Bavarian Mints. They run $12 for a 7 ounce, 12 piece box. Each piece is about twice the size of a Frango.

They are incredible!

Smooth texture, rich mint flavor and it melts in your mouth!

You can order them online from Von Maur at this link.

http://www.vonmaur.com/default.aspx?Function=Product&ProductID=899

I also have exciting news that will help me help our cause! I'm moving to Chicgao! See you all soon! (Still trying to find a place to live!)

Darrid


Date: Wed, January 30, 2008  11:40 pm CT
Posted by: Brad

Jim Cramer, financial news columnist and host of CNBC's program "Mad Money", wrote an article this week in defense of Eddie Lampert's performance and stock buyback decisions at Sears and to expose the way Lampert has been singled out for criticism by the media. As an example of this, Cramer points to the way in which the press writes about Macy's and Terry Lundgren. Here's the excerpt:

Macy's "has done a reckless buyback, levering up its balance sheet to do so, at much higher levels. However, I never read a bad work about Terry Lundgren and his cash management as CEO. I think his stores look terrible, but nobody writes that, either."

Field's Fans have been writing works critical of Macy's and Terry Lundgren for quite a long time and share Mr. Cramer's frustration with the newsmedia.

Here's the link to the article:

http://www.thestreet.com/s/the-press-is-wrong-about-sears-lampert/newsanalysis/investing/10400751.html?puc=_googlen?cm_ven=GOOGLEN&cm_cat=FREE&cm_ite=NA


Date: Wed, January 30, 2008  11:35 pm CT
Posted by: KMAF

TERRY LUNGREN YOU STINK

My 30 yrs of employment with Field's was the best.

I have wonderful memories of so many people that I worked with.

Customers,Co workers, Managers,assistance,buyers,Rep's of companies,display,electritions,warehouseing to housekeeping.

The key words "I worked with".

You may want to try this but then again you as a CEO have forgotten what it is to work with every day real people.

Terry can you say you are PROUD of yourself?

I know I can.


Date: Wed, January 30, 2008  10:56 pm CT
Posted by: Monique G.

I miss the service I was accustomed to at Marshall Field. I miss the fine quality products. I miss the staff that has left.

Date: Wed, January 30, 2008  9:39 pm CT
Posted by: Mrs. W

Another "exciting" month has come to an end yet Macy's own guidance says we should expect another sales decline at Messy's.

Anyhow, I wanted to share another loss at State Street. I understand the former manager of the Interior Design Studio has been oustered by Messy's. She was a lovely talented woman and will be missed by many. A friend who had recently visited the 8th floor was looking for a complementary piece of Baker furniture which she previously purchased at Field's in 2005. She was told the grim news of several peoples departure. The whole 8th and 9th floors are like a morgue according to her. My friend bets that furniture will be closed out of State Street before Fall. The store continues to spiral down. She visited several floors and found most of the store filthy and with racks upon rack of unsold Chineese poor quality merchandise everywhere with clearance and sales signs of 50-75% off plus an additional 10% if you use your Messy's card. The "Macy's Bargain Basement Bin" sale just doesn't seem to stop, does it?

My friend left in disgust and went to Baker's new showroom in River West. Their new store is buzzing with excitment according to her and her sales associate confirmed that sales have been very strong in their new showroom since opening and have had bountiful numbers of former Marshall Field customers frequenting the store. Go Figure??

This is the year folks, there is a lot of chatter of hedge funds, corporate vultures, European and Middle Eastern interests in buying up some of the battered retailers. Alot of the retail stocks are trading up on this news, even with retail results expecting to be lousy. Messy's is valued because of their coveted real estate locations and stable portfolio of former respected names such as Marshall Field's. Mr. Lundgren by end of year will be ousted, I feel it happening. This is the year we will have a return to State Street of the Marshall Field name.

Mrs. W


Date: Wed, January 30, 2008  5:43 pm CT
Posted by: James Miller

A previous poster asked if the firing of the window decorator means that they aren't planning on competing next Christmas season. I think the answer is actually probably yes.

At this point, it seems like the Macy's management is preparing for an unabated decline, and could well be thinking about how such a failure can be blamed on other people and things.

Truly, they must know they are bound to lose their shirt on State Street going through the next one. It almost seems as if these are people bent on showing they can handlle the experience of shuttering the State Street store as a Macy's. It makes no sense for them to march on off of that cliff, but that's their choice.


Date: Wed, January 30, 2008  3:46 pm CT
Posted by: PaulF

This deserves a full quote:

>From Cincinnati Enquirer article linked below on this past Sunday.

"[...]THE DIFFERENCE A YEAR MAKES

"Last year, Macy's executives crowed about 2006 results, and for good reason: The share price was bumping toward a 52-week high in the low $40s a share.

"A superb finish to an extraordinary year," Lundgren said at the time.

"But that glow did not last long, in part because bitter former Marshall Field's customers, angry that their beloved retailer had lost its name, stayed away from Macy's stores in Minneapolis, Greater Chicago and elsewhere.

"Daniel W. Harcourt II, 39, of Schaumburg, Ill., is one of those annoyed shoppers.

"Harcourt grew up in Aurora, Ind., and was a loyal Lazarus, Shillito's and Pogue's shopper. When he moved to Chicago in 1993, he said, he fell in love with Field's.

"I was a broke college student and yet they would make you feel like you were a million bucks," Harcourt said. He was outraged when the Field's brand was eliminated - and so were thousands of other shoppers, he said last week.

"I haven't bought a thing since the name change, although I did buy some Macy's stock so I can go to the shareholder meeting this year," Harcourt said.

MISSTEPS AFTER ACQUISITION

"When Macy's bought the former May Department Store Co. in 2005 for $17 billion in cash and debt, it was betting it could trim costs, sell divisions, merge best practices from both companies and leverage its nationally known brand to get more shoppers into its stores and more of their money, too.

"And with 63 percent of the companies' $27 billion in annual revenues coming from departments that appeal to women - feminine apparel, intimate apparel, accessories, cosmetics and home goods - the company knew it had to connect with women shoppers or face the consequences.

"Several elements soon went awry. Macy's tapped Anne MacDonald as chief marketing officer in February. A former Citibank executive, she served as chief marketing officer for Citi's Global Consumer Group and earlier in her career was vice president for brand management at Pizza Hut Inc.

"A spring TV campaign, "Hope Springs Eternal," included 16-page inserts in Vogue, Instyle, Glamour and Lucky. But it did not resonate with consumers, and by May, MacDonald was gone. "That effort was so bland, I can barely remember it," said analyst Hodos."[....]


Date: Wed, January 30, 2008  2:48 pm CT
Posted by: gle

I just came back from my weekly trek down Randolph Street. One would never believe Messy's was once Marshall Field's except for the landmark-protected signs. It's starting to resemble an abandoned building. The State and Randolph windows have "pardon our appearance" signs again. The Randolph side of the clock said 6:00 at 2:00 p.m. The Chevy ads are now gray-and-white and teal-and-white. A few windows showed rather blah attempts at Valentine themes. Broken doors on Randolph remain barricaded. The Wabash windows display strips of drab paper hanging down sort of like blinds, with no displays.

Loehmann's across the street offers a lively assortment of purses in their window, and I could see customers digging through racks behind them. Border's Books to the North is also alive. It seemed to be crammed with bundled-up customers contentedly browsing through the books. All the windows at Loehmann's and Border's were open for public viewing.

I also notice more people carrying the green plastic Marshall Field's bags as if they're the latest thing in designer totes. Those bags hold up surprisingly well--they still look new and shiny.

I don't care what newspapers say about recession. What little money I have, I would prefer to spend on a nice Marshall Field's item than the junk most retail is inflicting on the buying public.


Date: Tues, January 29, 2008  8:56 pm CT
Posted by: C.

I agree, Woodfield has become a very dead store with little foot traffic.

Sadly, the bad choice at the top to get rid of Field's has taken a very costly toll on employee morale.


Date: Tues, January 29, 2008  7:05 pm CT
Posted by: Jim Hart

The execs at Macy's should get over their pride and take care of both their customers and their employees.

I passed through both woodfield and State Street in the past couple of days andthe stores are dead.

How can these people blame their employees and customers?

These people like Lungren get their golden parachute but are indecent to those who shop with them and those who work for them. Lundgren has no decency and knows no shame.


Date: Tues, January 29, 2008  5:32 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

This week's Crains Chicago Business has a special on Daniel Burnham and White City. Daniel Burnham was, of course, the architect of the Field's State Street flagship as well as the flagships of Wannamaker's in Philly and Filene's in Boston.

Crain's points out "The Former Marshall Field's Building" and also shows a photo from when the store was Field's. A map however calls it Macy's.


Date: Tues, January 29, 2008  3:27 pm CT
Posted by: J.G.

With the shift at the top of Sears management and ownership, it's clear it can happen at Macy's too!

It's time for change at Macy's.

It's time to bring back Marshall Field's.


Date: Mon, January 28, 2008  6:05 pm CT
Posted by: Jon C.

It's not too early to start thinking about Valentine's Day, Field's Fans! If you want to give your Valentine the very freshest, tastiest candies, made the old-fashioned way, I have the perfect choice for you.

Betty Jane Candies has been making delicious candies in Dubuque, Iowa---just across the Mississippi River from East Dubuque and Galena, Illinois---since 1936. Although Betty Jane Candies has three stores in the Dubuque area, they have a nationwide following via their website:

http://www.bettyjanecandies.com/

Those of you who have tasted the many varieties of Betty Jane chocolates, would probably agree that the combination of the freshly made chocolate that snaps when bitten into, with the smooth tasty nougat filling makes for the ultimate without paying Godiva prices.

You will notice from the website that you may "SHOP ONLINE". From that point you may buy boxed assortments...OR...even have the nice benefit of being able to buy each chocolate candy of your choice. Each is pictured. Betty Jane offers the old-fashioned boxes similar to the old Fanny May Candy Company, and the prices are comparable to those of the Fanny May shops, under the original ownership.

The free gift-wrap specialty paper and ribbon provides the finishing touch for your present which you have mailed.

The candy is made daily in the kitchens in Dubuque and each chocolate is air-brushed the way old fashioned candy shops formerly did as a matter of practice to make the chocolate shine.

Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, Halloween and Christmas are vastly popular times for the Betty Jane shops and online business, along with birthdays.

Believe me, you will not be disappointed. The taste and texture difference will readily be noticed by your Valentine. Betty Jane Candies is a family owned business with its history on the website. While we are waiting for the return of Marshall Field's department stores and the tantalizing candy department, why not find out for yourself what true quality is in chocolate candy?!

Take it from a longtime Betty Jane Candy Fan...and Field's Fan!

P.S. Fanny May even has distinctive, masculine candy boxes designed to be sent to men, with the shirt and tie applique on the front of the box.


Date: Mon, January 28, 2008  3:39 pm CT
Posted by: drew

Sears is also having problems of their own. A columnist who is admittedly a supporter of Sears' Eddie Lampert, has this to say about Terry Lundgren.

http://www.thestreet.com/_yahoo/newsanalysis/investing/10400751.html?cm_ve n=YAHOO&cm_cat=FREE&cm_ite=NA

Date: Mon, January 28, 2008  2:12 pm CT
Posted by: Maura

Big changes at Sears with its CEO stepping down and primary owner Eddie Lampert saying he will step back a bit to allow the next CEO do his/her work.

Change can indeed happen at the top. Looking forward to the change at the top of Macy's and the return of Field's.


Date: Mon, January 28, 2008  10:53 am CT
Posted by: Marianne Erickson

Just discovered this Web site thanks to an e-mail exchange from another Field's Fan. WOW! A two-month late response to Jimmy Gimbel's post about the junk mdse made in China -- I'm very invested in purchasing only items made in first-world countries. In other words, where no U.S. jobs were sacrificed and no one worked in a sweat shop for substandard wages and in inhumane conditions. Most of the major department stores and many of the few remaining regional stores facilitate my shopping preferences by recognizing the search string "Made in USA" on their Web sites. Saks, for example, will come up with hundreds of items, all ma de in the good old U.S. of A.

Try this on the M-store Web site and you'll get... NADA. "We're sorry, we couldn't find any items that matched your search term." Isn't that sad?


Date: Mon, January 28, 2008  8:00 am CT
Posted by: Jack

Dateline Sunday -- Northbrook Court

Just another Sunday at the "Boutique" Mall in the Northern 'Burbs.

Looked around and there was a fair amount of traffic Sunday afternoon. Many stores had shoppers, and the center court was filled with families. Hmmm with the notable exception of the anchor at the west end of the mall. Red Star had less than a handful of folks, and the scattered black outfitted sales people.

At two high end stores at the other end of the mall, a manager saw my button and asked "how is the campaign going" I explained to him that we are making a difference and that the blog has some useful information for those in the retail biz. I offered a pin as I usually have a few in my coat pocket at all times, and it was readily accepted.

At another high end store, the clerk who was in her early 20's (are you listening Terry), noticed my pin as well and we struck up a conversation. She stated that her mom was a die hard Field's fan and she followed her mom's lead, not shopping the stores. She got a pin that will sit "on my purse" Hmmm another of the "target" audience that is not listening.

Maybe those Macy's folks ought to listen to their client base who have moved to Von Maur, Nordstroms, L&T, or to free standing up-scale shops.

p> Terry said it best on the Apprentice "Listen to the client" --- Huh???


Date: Sun, January 27, 2008  3:13 pm CT
Posted by: drew

Seems like even the home town newspaper admits that all is not well:

http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080127/BIZ01/801270378/1076

Date: Sun, January 27, 2008  3:07 pm CT
Posted by: drew

Here's something for the readers of this blog. Perhaps Lunkhead's arrogance and stupidity will hit him where it will hurt the most:

http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/artikkel?NoCache=1&Dato=20080127&Kategori=BIZ01&Lopenr=801270379&Ref=AR

Date: Sun, January 27, 2008  3:02 pm CT
Posted by: drew

Of course, the Red Star Store had stellar proritability in 2006--store closings, massive staff cutbacks and layoffs, sell of of Lord and Taylor and other real estate holdings:

http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/artikkel?NoCache=1&Dato=20080127&Kategori=BIZ01&Lopenr=801270377&Ref=AR

Of course, the Red Star Store had a miserable performance in 2007--there weren't massive amounts of money to be saved on further cuts and the stores had to produce based on merchandise and service. Lunkhead was the darling of Wall Street until reality set in. He totally misjudged the customer base and the Red Star has no place to go but down.


Date: Sun, January 27, 2008  1:54 pm CT
Posted by: LiMack

During the week I noticed a couple of small stains/discoloration on the sleeve of my favorite wardrobe staple, a white oldie but goodie Field Gear all-cotton turtleneck purchased at Marshall Field's several years ago. Well heck, I thought, I'm going to need to replace it. Easier said than done, I'm sorry to say!

After hitting about six different stores on Saturday and looking at approximately 20 different white cotton turtles I finally gave up. Even at the better stores all were from China, most were very thin cheapy cotton or polyester blends with seams that looked as if they would fray after a dozen washings. I returned home empty-handed and spent this morning experimenting with various stain removers, pastes, and water temperatures. Eureka! My Field Gear turtle has been resurrected. I even took it out on the deck and examined it in the brightest sunshine. It is perfect again, and I am sure it will last at least another year or two. What is amazing is how sturdy and indestructible it is, yet it was purchased at a very reasonable price at Field's.

Marshall Field's always dazzled us with its class and style, and with its one of a kind offerings and exclusive designer assortments. But, for many of us loyalists it is the reliability and value of their staples that I think we miss most.


Date: Sun, January 27, 2008  1:42 pm CT
Posted by: Darrid

http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080127/BIZ01/801270378/1076

Date: Sun, January 27, 2008  11:20 am CT
Posted by: FieldsFanNoMacys

For all the woman who are looking for a "free gift" with purchase and want to avoid Macy's here's one at Neiman Marcus for Estee Lauder.

With our compliments. Receive this deluxe set*, yours with any $55 Este Lauder purchase.

* Re-Nutriv Ultimate Lifting Creme
* Re-Nutriv Ultimate Lifting Serum
* Signature Hydra Lustre Lipstick
* Exclusive Spring Look Compact
* More Than Mascara Moisture-Binding Formula

http://www.neimanmarcus.com/store/catalog/templates/P5feature.jhtml?itemId=cat1720731&parentId=cat000294&masterId=cat000285&icid=beauty1

Date: Sun, January 27, 2008  9:09 am CT
Posted by: denise rule

i know i'm late in responding but, to Mary Lundgren and the remarks about Target stores: Target is a FINE store compared to the m. one that we all hate. and, it is what it is. no pretense. also, i think their advertising on tv is some of the best. i don't think they ever pretended to be a department store. totally unlike the red star store, who has set about destroying everything it touches. just wanted to defend one of my favorite stores (Target). on another note, i've had several Marshall Field experiences in last past 2 months in the Woodfield mall. i always park near Field's and go thru the store, and, as everyone says, much easier now. i always have on one of my Field's buttons. there is always some encounter, pro-Field's, in THE store. most recently, a vendor, i thought, from cosmetics approached me with something as i was walking thru and i just pointed to my button. surprisingly, she actually did work for the m store, unlike some cosmetics, and proceeded to tell me how the worse thing they (m) ever did was 1st, change the name from MF and then she added, but, how could they keep the Marshall Field's name with this quality of junk?? AND, she had not worked for Field's, only m. and had nothing good to say at all. said she misses Field's as much as everyone, and the quality. i gave her a button. then, as i was walking toward Nordstrom's, i passed C.D. Peacock's. i went in to thank them for their billboard on I294 and OMG! the saleswoman talked and talked and talked! hates the m store, never been in it since they changed, never will, LOVED MY BUTTON, gave it to her, and the website....she was so excited. and really passionate. then, on my way back, i brought her a Starbuck's and she was so glad i came because she wanted to know if i had anymore buttons! i gave her all i had, which was about 6, including the one off my jacket. so, these experinces are everywhere, as has been pointed out. also, i would note that in the woodfield m store it has been slower to show the drastic chnage of beco ming m, as say State St. you walk thru the store and if you go straight thru you only see, basically handbags, and womens shoes off to the side and then cosmetics, which hadn't changed that much, if you didn't move around. NOW, the store is really looking clearly trashy. shoes are piled in big bins! it looks as if they changed the flooring....impossible, i think..just wear and tear and lack of care and maybe the lighting now. anyway, i have experinces all the time of sharing the Field's experience with strangers, who are SO GLAD to know we're doing this. they're doing it too. this is working.

Date: Sun, January 27, 2008  8:05 am CT
Posted by: A. Perkins

Macy's cut the person who designed the Christmas windows and the great Christmas tree at State Street.

Does this mean that Macy's doesn't plan have Christmas store windows at State Street this upcoming holiday season? Does this mean they won't be around at all?


Date: Sat, January 26, 2008  10:30 pm CT
Posted by: Dave Jimmenez

I had the fortunate experience of being able to experience Fields before the Macy's rebranding. And like many of you in Chicago-land, I too am very much disconcerted by the forcing down of these New York Nameplates down this proud Angeleno's throat.

Whereas it might be too late to bring back our storied department store nameplates - Bullock's, Robinson's, & The Broadway (All absorbed by Macy in one fashion or another) I thought I would show my support and let you know that I support the green! Not a dollar spent at Macy's or Bloomingdale's.

Down with Macy's!


Date: Sat, January 26, 2008  6:05 pm CT
Posted by: Rich W

I just back from a week in NYC, and I had to go shopping with a co-worker for some specific items. Macy's and Lord & Taylor were the two department stores we needed to go to. L&T was beautiful...stocked, clean, neat, staffed. Clearance existed but new merchandise was all over the store. Then we walked thru the cold temps to Macy's, and I never saw anything like what I saw there in my life. It was a Sunday at 4:30 PM. 4 hours before the store was even to close. The entire store was being picked alive by the bargain hunters....taking advantage of tons of clearance. There were more clothes thrown on the floor and under the racks than ON the racks! You couldn't walk anywhere or take a step without stepping on clothes or hangers. The store literally looked like it was under siege from a nuclear attack. The wooden escalators had actual trash thrown into the sides where the white paint was peeling. It was disgusting. While it confirms how low Lunkhead has taken the Macy's name (besides the destruction of Field's), it also saddened me to see how even the Herald Square store is in shambles. I would not be surprised to see some New Yorkers joining us here as the Macy's we once knew is being driven into oblivion by a jackass named Lunkhead.

Date: Sat, January 26, 2008  5:27 pm CT
Posted by: FOLEYShouston

Here's what's missing at FOLEY's of HOUSTON (now Macy's because regional department stores were eliminated)

http://finance.groups.yahoo.com/group/foleysofcourse/message/7

Shouldn't downtown department stores be special retail palaces instead of a downtown version of a mall store ???? That with a little marketing ?


Date: Sat, January 26, 2008  3:27 am CT
Posted by: B

Hi All

Hope ALL are well

-- Keep up the boycott on redstar and bloomingdales!

I visited Darrid.com -- had not gone for a while -- it IS wonderful -- I noticed that there was now a link for Marshall Field's on wayback -- the historical site for old out of date sites-- When you click on it it takes you to the Marshall Field website for the holiday 2004 season -- it is beautiful and magical and sweet and wierd because it all works and you think you could just order- you can click from one page to the next -- all original Field's --

But beyond everything else it is SO SAD because it is wayback and that means it is in the defunct group. A ghost of department store past -- BUT ALSO A GHOST of DEPARTMENT STORE FUTURE!!!!!

The mess that is red star cannot continue indefinitely in the shabby money losing way in which it conducts its' business.

Visit it if you want a sweet memory or if you want a momentary journey back to a better time -- a time of Marshall Field and Co.!

Take Care all

B

italbearr@yahoo.com

For all the woman who are looking for a "free gift" with purchase and want to avoid Macy's here's one at Neiman Marcus for Estee Lauder.


Date: Sat, January 26, 2008  2:13 am CT
Posted by: TheRegionals

People are longing for the regional stores and they were ! Marshall Field's was the greatest place to be. So was Burdine's, Strawbridge's...etc.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A62707-2005Mar1.html

Date: Fri, January 25, 2008  11:44 pm CT
Posted by: James in MInneapolis

This evening I had dinner with my neighbor, Miss Corrie,at the new Wolfgang Puck Restaurant called 20.21, in the addition to the Walker Art Center and enjoyed great food & service.

Miss Corrie, having grown up in Seattle, is a confirmed Nordstrom shopper. She occasionally would, in the past here, venture out to Marshall Field's and some of the specialty stores like Cole-Haan. As I relay some of our anger, disappointment and resentment about the downgrading of Field's by macy's, she would often just say she did not really feel it or understand it since she grew up with Nordstrom and still has that available.

Tonight at dinner she told me that during Christmas, she was Downtown in the Nicollet Mall store and she said, "Ahh---now I get it. I have not been in that store for a long time. You know that I usually go to Nordstrom... But I did occasionally go to Nicollet Mall Field's. What happened to that store? It is horrible now. There is nothing there. Even I, who did not usually shope there and struck by how downhill that store has gone under macy's. Now I get it. It made me think----how would I feel if macy's took over Nordstrom and ruined the place I shop?"

It was interesting to hear her perspective. Then we went on to argue about politics and other topics that we always (respectfully) disagree on and had a great time eating and drinking wine.


Date: Fri, January 25, 2008  7:53 pm CT
Posted by: Marcus

Whenever I got my "Save Marshall Field's" Button from a person in 2007, it changed my life. So I went with my son and wore the button on my jacket on the way to State Street the day I got it.

So when I did, my son said, "That's a nice button dad! Could I have it?" and then I said sure. and then there's this girl that's about my son's age and says "Yeah, Marshall Field's rocks. I would love that button, could I have it?" and my son was sad, but gave it to her and said thanks.

I told my son I would get one for him again. So i did. and now he's wearing it everywhere we go around Chicago.

----------------------------------------------

Here's a different story...

I went to a former Marshall Field's store with my wife and we were walking down the Woman's department and she saw a dress made by "L z Cla borne" and she loves it. It was costing $126.55 It says "65-80% off original price and it says "Reduction taken at the register" and it took us 20 minutes to track down a man assistant...He said, "$130.99" and my wife said, "What!? I found that at the 65-80% rack!" but the man said, "Well let me check again..." and then he did and said "Sorry ma'am, we can't find it, so I'm sorry"... my wife didn't end up getting the dress.

As my wife and I were passing the cookware I happened to see an empty registering desk, with a few green stripped shopping bags with cursive print and a clock on the shelves and LOADS of a white plastic bags with a red star and saying macys way to shop! anyways I wish i could've gotten the bag.

So we left.

//Next update: 2/1/08...

AND HAPPY EARLY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!

Where are you gonna buy chocolates for your darling?????? Von Maur? Neiman? Saks? L&T? Godiva? They all have some fine chocolates.


Date: Fri, January 25, 2008  6:14 pm CT
Posted by: Sally M

i know how it is when a local treasure is bought out by a big concern. i am from new orleans la and our beloved dh holmes and maison blanche was bought by dilliards and now it just another dilliards nothing original and nothing special to the unique new orleans culture. i am very upset about the loss of fields. we visited chicago on a yearly basis and my first stop was always the marshall fields on state. what a great place. on my last visit in 2006 and i learned that macy's would be taking over i was sick. and vowed to not shop at macys anymore. now the former marshall fields stores are just the same as every other macys and not unique to chicagoland. MACY'S SUCKS!!!

Date: Fri, January 25, 2008  12:46 pm CT
Posted by: drew

Has anyone else noticed that the Red Star Store has cut back on advertising since the Christmas season?

In the two major newspapers serving the Pittsburgh market, the Red Star usually runs only a half page ad on Friday/ Saturday. The Sunday editions haven't had a circular since Christmas. I also haven't noticed any TV advertising for the Red Star's ever-popular "One Day Sale" lately. However, a local AM radio station has carried several Red Star messages and an FM country music station Froggy 98 has run a few 30 second spots--nothing distinctive, just part of the usual radio host chatter.

The Bon Ton usually has a sale flyer during the week as well as an advertising supplement in the Sunday editions. Boscov's has display ads as well as sales circulars. JC Penney, Sears, Kohl's and Target ususally have color sale brochures included with the Sunday newspaper and some inserts during the week.

In addition to reductions in quality, selection, customer service, maintenance, store decor and numerous other functions, has Lunkhead now decided to cut back on advertising? Did he reduce the advertising division in the latest round of layoffs? Is this the latest example of his managerial arrogance--why SHOULD we advertise when customers will just come in and buy what we have?

Wasn't the grand macy*ization project supposed to create an "exciting" national brand? If so, why doesn't the Red Star advertise on the cable networks (USA, Lifetime, TNT, MSNBC, HNN, Fox, and so on)?

Surely the shareholders and Board of Directors can recognize that the Red Star Store is on its deathbed.


Date: Fri, January 25, 2008  9:42 am CT
Posted by: gle

I finally got this computer where I'm temping to let me into Field's Fans.

So after trying to speed-read about three weeks of back information:

Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Mike Moran! I'm sure Messy's bridal registery can eat their heart out.

Glad to read that "Crain's" is giving Field's Fans some notice.

I really enjoyed leafletting December 22 and matching a few more faces with names. I'm convinced our hard work is paying off.

The "Tribune's" Voice of the People had another pro-Field's letter in their Online Exclusives: "Bring Back Marshall Field's" dated January 16, 2008 by Simiak. There were 67 comments, mostly pro-Field's with the usual couple who seem to think it's their job to antagonize.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/letters/chi-080116marshall_briefs,0,148689.story

I have to walk past Messy's on the Randolph side once a week, and the building just looks like someone just doesn't care. Bridal registry poster boards now deck the corner windows at State and Randolph, in addition to the Chevy ads further down on Randolph. There's some green color running down the side of the building under the clock. (Is the clock crying?)

If a business is to succeed, it must have a market. There is definitely a tremendous market for the return of Marshall Field's. Messy's ads don't seem to be helping them much. However, even without any advertising at present, Field's customers are THERE.


Date: Fri, January 25, 2008  8:36 am CT
Posted by: Zachary M

I'm from Fort Wayne, Indiana... but I used to live in the Chicago area for many years. And when I did live in the Chicago area, my family used to shop at some of the Marshall Field's stores often while visiting the city.

And trust me, Field's was no Macy's... and I mean this in a good way. When I re-visited the State Street store when it was Macy's in the summer of 2007, everything had slipped dramatically. For example, I like men's fragrances a lot, and they cut back on their fragrance brands (Cartier and Hermes, brands once carried by Field's, are no longer represented).

The whole store, once bustling, was now a ghost town. Inside, I was like that lone guy in those British Airways commercials where he yelled out "Where is everybody?" because everyone took those cheap trips to Europe. Except, instead of heading off to London, people headed off to Nordstrom, whose Michigan Avenue store have been bursting at the seams after the demise of Marshall Field's. Same goes for Neiman Marcus and Saks Fifth Avenue. And both company-owned boutiques like those owned by Prada and specialty "category-killer" shops like Sephora (which carries many of the cosmetics and fragrance brands that Macy's dropped) are also winning over customers.

What should Macy's Inc. do about this? They should bring back Marshall Field's. They can keep at least a few of the suburban stores Macy's for all I care... State Street is the heart and soul of Field's, and they ripped out both with the changes. But it shouldn't be Field's in name only... so they need to use the Bloomingdale's division to run and merchandise it, who has expertise in upscale retailing. They could win back a lot of customers this way.


Date: Thurs, January 24, 2008  10:39 pm CT
Posted by: Mary S

I refuse to shop at Macy's or Bloomingdale's until they restore Marshall Field's. I live in Los Angeles and a highlight of traveling to Chicago was to visit Field's. Why should I shop at Macy's in Chicago when I can buy the same stuff down the road here in California. These Macy's people have shot themselves in the foot. GIVE US BACK MARSHALL FIELD'S!

Date: Thurs, January 24, 2008  8:59 pm CT
Posted by: Henry B.

When Field's comes back to State Street, they should lease out the extra floors on the top to other Chicago branded merchants. It would be a big hit.

I am boycotting Macy's until Field's comes back.


Date: Thurs, January 24, 2008  7:35 pm CT
Posted by: Zelda

Hi Field's Fans,

I had lunch with a dear friend who had no idea of my involvement with our quest to restore Marshall Field's. She couldn't believe it when I told her that two large windows at the former Field's flagship store were given over to advertising Chevrolets! When I told her there was a Chevy Malibu IN THE STORE she was even more shocked! This kind of crass advertising is so contrary to what we knew and expected from our first class retail icon. I left her with a bunch of buttons, and as I was leaving, she said she wanted one of those New Athens T shirts! (I learned they are not on sale any longer, so if you have one, it's now a collector's item!) As I pulled out of my friend's driveway, I thought, "This is just another reason why this woman is such a dear friend." She totally got it!

We who write to this blog regularly and stand out on the street with leaflets and buttons, not to mention protesting in the RAIN, must remember that for every hundred of us, there are thousands of people who loved Field's and hate what has happened to our great midwestern department stores. The macyfication of America cannot go on, and in fact, will not go on for much longer. Our boycott has been very effective, causing macy's to cut maintenance staff, sales staff and local vendors, thus making the stores less and less appealing as each day goes by.

Today I counted only two shoppers with macy's bags as I walked through the store on the main floor. Seriously, I don't know how they can afford to keep the lights on. It's just a matter of time now, my friends.

Your Friend in Field's,

Zelda


Date: Thurs, January 24, 2008  10:37 am CT
Posted by: Enjoyed Marshall Fields

I believe that Federated should have left it the way it was. Marshall Fields is an icon and a standard of how a real department store should be. They should have kept the quality and customer service in place. Now, they eliminated the quality and customer service that positions them no differently than anyone else. I used to enjoy shopping at Marshall Fields and L.S. Ayers. They left the door wide open for competition.

Date: Wed, January 23, 2008  8:34 pm CT
Posted by: Stephen M.

How can I be a customer of a business when that business ignores history, and, more importantly, the resounding pleas of its customers?

When Macy's execs say they have left behind Field's customers, it tells me they are not loyal to its customers. They only want money but they do not want to give the effort that keeps me a customer.

Clearly, Macy's has no loyalty to its customers and this former Macy's shopper has no loyalty to Macy's.


Date: Wed, January 23, 2008  5:53 pm CT
Posted by: C.C. Chicago

I was walking down Randolph St. in Chicago yesterday and passed Macy's. I looked into one of the windows, which had a bridal dress display of two whole mannequins and nothing else. The walls were painted auqa blue. I was shocked to see that on one wall there was a six inch wide line of peeling and bubbling paint, almost from ceiling to floor. Is this part of the aura Macy's wants to project? That of a decaying, dirty, unkempt bargain basment store? Who would want to buy their wedding dress there? Is this what they want to offer to Chicago?? Do they think we won't notice?

Date: Wed, January 23, 2008  3:42 pm CT
Posted by: Mike C.

If one compares Field's to other department stores like Macy's, Robinson's, Famous, Ayres, etc, one sees it was more than the rest.

Yet on top of that, Field's was a cultural force in the City of Chicago, the United States and the world. Until it returns, Macy's has deprived Chicago somthing uniquely its own. An icon which represented the finest of Chicago.

Mike C.
Northfield, IL


Date: Wed, January 23, 2008  10:45 am CT
Posted by: JW

Working with someone who is looking for information and photos showing Field's bags, paper, string and other packing material used in the early 1930s.

If you have information on this, it would be very helpful in representing Field's. Photos and other materials are needed. Swift timing is critical in this matter.

Please email chicagopride@fieldsfanschicago.org

Thank you.


Date: Tues, January 22, 2008  10:31 pm CT
Posted by: Richard M. M.

Its proud to see such a fight for Marshall Field's! We out here in California just let Macy's eat up and close up special stores I. Magnin, Bullock's, the Broadway and Robinson's without even a one "Whats goinging on here?!" Too late for us, Macy's is EVERYWHERE!

Date: Tues, January 22, 2008  8:56 pm CT
Posted by: L. Grand

Greetings fellow Field's Fans,

Though in its nascent stage and thus paling in comparison to darrid.com, I've created a weblog called, Marshall Field & Co. - Setting the Standard in Fashion Leadership and Retail Excellence.

It's only 2 days old, but I've posted three slideshows thus far, featuring fashion merchandise from 2005. In case you'd like to check it out, you will find it here:

http://matchlessmarshallfields.blogspot.com

I have plans to update it regularly, adding more fashion slide shows, some historical photos and text, and some "just for fun" stuff. If you have anything you'd like to submit , or have suggestions and ideas you'd like me to consider for the weblog, please contact me via email at reality_quest@yahoo.com .

Very Marshall Fieldingly Yours, (thank you, Jon C.)

L. Grand


Date: Tues, January 22, 2008  8:13 pm CT
Posted by: GRA58

I was in an Oak Park restaurant just before Christmas, waiting for my dinner companion to arrive. Because I was alone at the table, I couldn't help but overhear the conversation of the table next to me. At that other table were four well dressed ladies discussing how sad things were at macy's, and how they missed Field's. One of the ladies had just ventured into the Oak Brook store. The word she used to describe the store was "hideous" and the word to describe her experience in the customer service area was "nasty". How many businesses survive when customers use words like "hideous" to describe their experience? Keep at the boycott. Sounds like more and more are abandoning the red star every day.

Date: Tues, January 22, 2008  3:55 pm CT
Posted by: JBoy5990

I think that all of the Marshall Fields fans should buy the majority of the stock of Messys and throw Lundgren out and rebrand the company based on the stockholder majority. I know that it is not that easy, but its a start.

Date: Mon, January 21, 2008  11:43 pm CT
Posted by: Joseph From CA

Did a quick getaway to Las Vegas this past weekend, so I thought I would see how Macy's at Fashion Show Mall was doing since I last visited Las Vegas in 2005. This store is one of the few Macy's West stores that actually sells designer clothes, but the designer selection has been diminished since my last visit. I noticed a very small amount of D&G, Moschino, Juicy Coture, and a few others. Just a few years back this store also used to sell Versace, Armani, and I think even Prada. Unfortunately, this Macy's has also fallen like the others in that the vast majority of the men's department is dedicated to their in-house brands. In this particular mall, Macy's can't afford to alienate shoppers, but I think it is too late. It shares space with Dillard's, Nordstrom, Saks, and Neiman Marcus. Hmmmm, lots of choices there.

Date: Mon, January 21, 2008  7:32 pm CT
Posted by: John M.

The closing of the former Fields store in Lake Forest shows that when Macys brings lower-quality merchandise, the Lake Forest customers will shop some where else. How SAD Fields could run a store at that location since the 20's and now its demise is caused by Macys not listening to the customers. Macys agenda is if the customer will not follow our plans we will close the store. Too bad they are hell bent on the Macys idea for Chicago. As customers we want our stores back. If we did not want Marshall Fields we would not be voicing our opinions so loudly.

Date: Mon, January 21, 2008  1:34 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

I had a similar experience to Jack's on Saturday, only this was at Cherryvale Mall in Cherry Valley, Illinois near Rockford.

Late Saturday afternoon, I was in the mall. Given it was post-holiday season, I was suprised to find it was packed. Later I learned that Cherryvale Mall is considered to be the top teen and twenty-something hangout in Rockford. Even the mall itself pretty much promotes that.

It's rare that I will even enter any Macy's store since 9/9/2006, but for the first time in a few months I did check out the store which was a former Marshall Field's. After entering the mall through Bergner's, I was even surprised at the noticeable difference in customer traffic in Macy's. I decided to do an informal count of shoppers in Macy's and Bergner's. Keep in mind that both stores seem roughly the same size in terms of area, although Macy's is spread out over three floors while Bergner's is spread out over two.

In Macy's there were 61 potential customers in the whole store. The lower level which was home goods, furniture, foods (including the discontinued wine department, Frangos and ridiculously, Macy's brand boxed chocolates), and children's. The whole lower level had six customers, tops.

On the other levels of Macy's, I even counted those people who seemed to be passing through the store just to get to the parking lot or to cut over to some new outdoor shops built recently across the lot from Macy's. If I was uncertain if they were an employee or simply a customer wearing all black I still counted them as a potential customer. So there were 61 of them, as I could loosely count.

Then I went over to Bergner's and did the same, except I even left out people seemingly just using the store as a cut-through to the parking lot. Since it was a cold day, I assumed anyone not wearing a coat or at least carrying one, was an employee. The employees wear all sorts of color clothes and not just black. In other words, the slant of my count was more in favor of Macy's than Bergner's. I counted 115 customers at Bergner's and stopped there. In the home and children's sections I counted at least 18 shoppers.

For the heck of it, I ran over to JCPenney and Sears to see how busy those stores were. On the second level of Penney's alone, there were over 60 shoppers when I stopped counting. I didn't even count the busier lower level. At Sears, I counted only the first level--after all, Sears sells hardware and a few other things not at the other three anchors. Only in the clothing departments on the first floor, I counted 62 shoppers and stopped there. I used the same approach for counting as in Bergner's.

So here's a mall that appeals to twenty somethings and teens--whom Macy's is supposedly trying to attract--and the other anchors all seem to have twice as much business. Several months ago, I commented on how all the furniture in Macy's furniture sale flyers aren't necesarily bad looking as they are too much of the same thing and rather plain at that. That's how the whole Macy's struck me. And clearly, the merchandise was not the same kind of merchandise that I came to expect at Field's, save for the Frangos and wine. On top of that, it seemed as if of the four department stores, Macy's had the most clearance merchandise (as evident by signage). Yet, Macy's was clearly the deadest. I saw less than a dozen Macy's bags, but countless Bergner's and Sear's bags.

If the whole mall was dead, that would be one thing; but it seemed only Macy's was dead.

Putting this and other stories like Jack's in the context of Macy's sales slides for December and even November-December, it seems quite apparent that the drops are probably much greater here in former Field's territories and less in Northeast and other older Macy's areas.

It's very clear that the conversion from Field's to Macy's is not working.

Jim


Date: Mon, January 21, 2008  12:20 pm CT
Posted by: PaulF

There is a thread about Macy's having two stores per mall, written in the Washington Post:

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/01/20/AR2008012002228_Comments.html

Date: Mon, January 21, 2008  7:07 am CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Chicago Public Radio had a local story during Morning Edition about the closing of the Lake Forest store.

http://www.chicagopublicradio.org/Content.aspx?audioID=17246

It aired just after 5:35 am. The story mentions "diminishing sales" and says although the store is Macy's it was pretty much always Marshall Field's. Yet, the story never elaborates on the impact of the switch from Field's to Macy's on the stores sales. Instead, it focusses on nostalgia.

Then consider that at 5:48 and 5:58 am, the traffic reports were sponsored and co-sponsored (respectively) by Macy's. Macy's has occassionally sponsored segments before on CPR, but this was too odd in my book.

So check out the story and consider leavng some comments to the show at the site (there is just a place for comments to the staff--no blog that I could find.)

Jim


Date: Mon, January 21, 2008  4:18 am CT
Posted by: Marsha Field

[Post pending from author.]

Date: Sun, January 20, 2008  11:07 pm CT
Posted by: Jack

Was at Hawthorne today, and of course lots of parking near the Red Star. Needed to get a book at Barnes and Noble and the cashier who was not even 25 commented on my Button proudly displayed on my ball cap. She said "I really agree with your pin, I have not set foot in Macy's since they took over."

Are you listening Terry??? This is the "new customer" that you are now courting. Even the twenty somethings know about tradition and quality and value!!

Needless to say she got my cap pin. I'll replace it with another tomorrow when I get to the office. (thank you to our Angel and benefactor for bankrolling the pins and flyers!)

You don't have to do anything more than wear the button. I also passed out 6 at a dinner party on Saturday night. Die hard Marshall Field fans were excited to get the pins!

JACK


Date: Sun, January 20, 2008  5:15 pm CT
Posted by: Eric B

Although I refuse to spend a nickel at Macy's, my wife occasionally browses and won't buy anything unless it's drastically marked down. So Saturday afternoon in a former Marshall Field's that reminds me of a soiled, wilted flower with petals drooping, there she was, the only customer in the entire women's wear department. She found a nice (?) dress and the original price was reduced.

Now, the signs on all the racks stated, "45-75% off when you take an additional 30% off already reduced prices." Below that, in smaller print: "Reductions will be taken at the register." Searching for a sales associate turned out to be the easy part. The real fun began when the associate argued that the amount shown on the tag was the final price.

It took 15 minutes to track down an assistant store manager, who merely told the associate to do just what the sign said. And yes, in the end my wife paid less than $25.00 for a dress that was originally $139.00.

Evidently the Red Star interpretation of "Way to Shop" is to dangle a carrot from a stick and make customers jump really high if they want it badly enough. Small wonder that anyone is willing to shop there.


Date: Sun, January 20, 2008  2:59 pm CT
Posted by: Derrick

[Please reply to the poster via Jim McKay]

I have been trying to find out the history and or value of the marshall fields magazine called "the shield " for about 10 months. I cannot find anything anywhere. its a magazine published by the Marshall field employees dated September 1931 volume 1 issue 1 and has 18 pages.

it has the first pictures of the merchandise mart and I could go on and on about all the neat picture of things and people including employees. it is in very good condition for being 77 years old and I wanted to say that I was very lucky finding this piece of history I must have walked by it 20 times before I went though a stack of about 50 old dusty us news/ time magazines. if you can help that would be great or if you know anyone who might be interested ....


Date: Sun, January 20, 2008  10:32 am CT
Posted by: Mary Lundgren (no, not that Lundgren)

Yes, we in Lake Forest were decidedly disappointed that our beloved Marshall Fields was becoming Macys. Our disappointment resulted in lack of sales for Macys and ultimately the location that had been Marshall Fields most charming store is closing January 30, 2008. Federated, on its way to proving itself as poorest business model has destroyed our landmark.

My only true suggestion is to purchase as much Federated stock as possible, form a coalition or movement for the removal of Terry Lundgren and the other geniuses that came up with the riduculus idea of acquiring Fields and taking it to the level of its Target stores.

The stockholders actually have the power to do this. Make sure that you attend the stockholders meetings as well. Work together. Lundgren appears to arrogant to recognize his debacle.

And shame on Donald Trump for having Terry Lundgren on his Apprentice show last week as a "marketing genious"...Poor move on Trumps part since he is having trouble selling his Trump tower in Chicago.

Mary Lundgren (ashamed that I have the same last name.)


Date: Sun, January 20, 2008  10:23 am CT
Posted by: Mark W R

January 20, 2008

Two years after Field's closed, I find your website! Awesome.

Let's do all we can to get Macy's to sell their State Street store to Marshall Field's investors who will bring back the name. There must be a group of investors out there who realize that this isa good for Chicago.

I have not purchased anything from Macy's since they bought Field's and changed the name. When Field's comes back to Chicago, so will my business.


Date: Sun, January 20, 2008  10:19 am CT
Posted by: Irene G

I'll keep my comments simple. "PURE DISGUST"! That's how I feel

about the changing of Marshall Fields to Macy's. With the firing of

Amy Meadows, that was the last straw for me and I don't even know her. How dare they rid the store of someone who has created such beautiful displays that were a part of my surreal experience in visiting Fields from a child thru my adult years. Something has to be done!! Get rid of Macy's not Amy Meadows!!!!


Date: Sun, January 20, 2008  9:57 am CT
Posted by: Darrell

This is kind of funny and sad.... last week I was watching one of those evening entertainment news shows, and they were doing an update on Brittney Spears. They were talking about how she did not show up for court, but was seen several hours later that day shopping at Macy's, they even showed a video clip of her in the store. After I saw that, I got thought how Terry L would probably stoop to doing a TV spot touting that Brittney Spears shops at Macy's.

Date: Sat, January 19, 2008  11:34 pm CT
Posted by: Nicole B

I find it amusing that Macy's tried to sway us Chicagoans with nostalgia about the tree and that writing contest they had and then went and shrunk that windows like if no body would pay attention, now they think Chicagoans are stupid.

Date: Sat, January 19, 2008  6:23 pm CT
Posted by: L. Grand

I found some rumors on Retail Worker Forum on the Macy's/Federated portion, apparently posted by someone in store management:

http://www.retailworker.com/node/38901

It says there are rumors are for more cutbacks in giftwrap, the vault, security and alterations sometime between mid February and early March. There are rumors of cuts in executive ranks as well.

I was quite appalled at the CHANGE in gift wrap between Marshall Field's and Macy's. Marshall Field's gift wrap was absolutely beautiful, elegant and very classy. It was an honor to give a gift from Marshall Field's in a Marshall Field's box wrapped in the elegant gift wrap. I will mention again that Marshall Field's received awards from HOUR Detroit Magazine in two categories in 2004: Best Gift Wrapping Service and Best Bridal Registry.

Macy's replaced this with cheaper, thinner cardboard boxes and very everyday, "who cares?" type gift wrap. I could do better myself! And now they are going to take further cost-cutting measures at the expense of customers and employees (who have to sheepishly and ashamedly explain that there is no gift wrap service) in order to keep their stock price from plummeting? WOW.

Oh, how I would love to be able to give gifts from Marshall Field's again, lovingly tissue-wrapped and tucked into a sturdy green Marshall Field's box wrapped in elegant gift wrap! I WANT MARSHALL FIELD'S BACK!

Very Marshall Fieldingly Yours,

L. Grand


Date: Sat, January 19, 2008  7:36 am CT
Posted by: Jack

Appredciated reading Dan Harcourt's post about Chicago "hard ball" Heck, we even play softball DIFFERENT than the rest of the world. 16" is the name of the game. Saw Lunkhead on the Donald's program last week too, and did a jaw drop when he made the comment about "listening to clients" Huh? Hey Terry, GIVE THE LADY WHAT SHE WANTS! Remember that Fi eld's mantra??? Take your own advice and you might have a whisper of a prayer of reversing things. Meantime, my Fields Fans, Buy a share or 5 of M, and get on the mailing list . Speak out, and let your self be known as STOCKHOLDER.

Stay WARM, the Chicago HAWK is here with a vengeance this weekend.

JACK


Date: Sat, January 19, 2008  7:20 am CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Sandra Jones' weekly retailing column has two shorts about Field's. One item starts, "Calling on Marshall Field: Macy's won't bring back Field's, but that hasn't stopped another Chicago institution from tapping into the nostalgia." It then talks about the C.D. Peacock billboards reminding folks that Marshall Field did in fact shop at the jeweler which as been around since 1837. The column also has a blurb about Lake Forest closing. Consider the angle below and be sure to email a Letter to the Editor too.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-sat_notebook_0119jan19,0,1684562.story

These suggestions are made for responding to media articles or TV news segments:

* If submitting by US Mail, make a photocopy of your letter.
* If submitting by the internet, send your "Letter to the Editor" in a standard email message. Do not use web page forms or blog sites for the newspapers, unless you absolutely have to. If you submit via email, you have the opportunity to cc: or bcc: a copy to yourself--submitting via other methods on the internet means you probably won't have a dated copy of your response, if you get a copy at all. It is very important that you keep a copy for your records.
* The Letters to the Tribune should be sent to: ctc-TribLetter@tribune.com
* Please remember to include a daytime phone number for verification purposes.
* Be certain to indicate in your letter that it is "for publication."
* Remember, items submitted to the "letters to the editor" section should not be cross-posted to other forums like the fieldsfanschicago.org blog. The publicati ons request exclusivity.
* Be succinct as possible. Longer items don't have as much of a chance of being published. While there are many facets to the loss of Field's, consider focusin g on just one or two facets that will best help the larger cause.
* Even if your letter does not get published in print or web media, remember that the media takes note of the public's pulse. Every letter reminds editors and producers that this is still indeed a very important issue.



Date: Sat, January 19, 2008  12:22 am CT
Posted by: L. Grand

How ironic. I found a website created by Mississippian Marianna Hayes - a small business consultant who is president of HALO Business advisors. The website is "Results Revolution" and the byline is "Freedom From the Waste of Traditional Marketing." Her article is entitled "Learn from Macy's." Well, so far, we can easily see the parallels there between her byline and Lundgren's way of thinking.

I found the title of her article, "Learn from Macy's" quite ironic in itself. Learn what? How to screw something up and make people hate you? In what appears to be a glowing and glorious report of Macy's in New York, she then says the following in a particular paragraph, Point 2 of a three point sermonette:

"2. A sense of history adds to word of mouth. I personally can't quit talking about those rickety, wooden, antique escalators that carry thousands of people a day between the floors of Macy's. Take away lesson: If you have history, heritage or old stuff, flaunt it."

I guess Miss Hayes has never been to Chicago. Obviously she has no idea how Macy's has trampled over Chicago's history, heritage and "old stuff." Ahhhh, the irony of it all....

http://www.resultsrevolution.com/weblog/2006/01/learn_from_macy.html

If you'd like to share YOUR personal Macy's "experience" with Miss Hayes, here is the contact information for HALO Business Advisors:

Marianna Hayes, President
HALO Business Advisors
P. O. Box 217
Kosciusko, MS 39090

662.289.0719 (phone)
866.331.9704 (fax)

info@halobusiness.com

Please do not think your input, courteously communicated, will be disregarded. I responded to a certain business's decision to offer Macy's gift cards as a promotional tool by calling the marketing director of that company and leaving a voice message. She returned my call several days later to follow up with my concern and said she had "had NO idea" of the outcry against Macy's. I told her quite frankly that by associating with Macy's, it could actually HURT her particular company's business, and I suggested a very suitable and like-minded business to consider partnering with in offering gift cards next time. She THANKED ME for telling her, and said, "Well, we won't do it again!" Perhaps this is an opportunity for us to broaden Miss Hayes' business and marketing horizons to include the Midwest and beyond. It's been said that "he who hesitates is lost." By the same token, I would say that "he who races to report without first doing the research does a disservice to all."

Very Marshall Fieldingly Yours,

L. Grand


Date: Fri, January 18, 2008  11:20 pm CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels

There is an interesting letter in the January 18 Chicago Tribune under the headline "Generic look." The author, a Liz Zimmermann of Mendota, IL expressed her displeasure concerning the Chicago Tribune's new graphic format. Ms Zimmermann states: "the new format looks generic."

She also writes, "Don't make the same Marshall Field vs Macy's name mistake."

Why is this important? It shows the general public understands how downmarket and generic Macy's is. No more needs to be written, the reader understands that being like Macy's is not a good thing...and Marshall Field is the gold standard.

Maybe the word Macy's will become the newest adjective: "That color is so Macy's" (awful) or "She was wearing a blue print Macy's (tacky) dress" or "Have you seen the new Spring fashions arriving at Macy's? There just so Macy's (awful, tacky, generic)." See how that works?

THIS JUST IN FROM JIMMY GIMBELS.

Remember how Macy's said that customer service is their focus for 2008? Well, now they have an black-clothed employee standing at the bottom on the escalator barking out "Can I help you?" as people step off. One woman started to ask her a question about dishes. The "helpful" Macy-ette barked again, "Go to housewares." Well, no kidding! Of course when you get to housewares, there is no assistance or anyone to write up the sale.

Another woman asked if there was anyone who could ring up her sale. Little Miss Helpful snapped, "Take it upstairs, there should be someone to ring that up. I don't have a register on me." (Guys: I don't make this stuff up. I watch the helpful Macy associate not actually helping anyone for 20 minutes.)

Anyone notice the new lower prices on the new Martha Stewart merchandise for Spring? The white cake mix is now $10. Last Fall it was $15. The cookie sprinkles are now $12 instead of $30. Ah yes, affordable luxury.

New game for the kiddies at Macy's: Count the burnt out light bulbs in the ceiling fixtures. That is exactly what two kids were doing today while waiting for mom to return an item.

Jimmy Gimbels risks his health and sanity visiting Macy's so YOU don't have to. By the way, nice crowd at Lord and Taylor, and Carson's this morning. At Macy's, well, um, let's just say I think people forgot the store was open.


Date: Fri, January 18, 2008  8:07 pm CT
Posted by: Steven

This was at a Canadian web site. The theme of the article was going abroad without going broke (link: http://www.nationalpost.com/life/travel/story.html?id=247677):

If you must, go big-box Department stores are a potential motherlode of inexpensive local crafts, souvenirs and postcards. Plus, everything is under one roof, so if shopping really isn't your thing, you save time for stuff that is. Besides, some stores, such as the old Marshall Field's in Chicago (now Macy's), are glittering architectural achievements woven into the very fabric of the city, so you get a history lesson by osmosis.

You notice that the article doesn't mention that Macy's Herald Square is glittering. Or architectural. It is an achievement, however. No where on Earth is so much junk collected under one roof for sale.


Date: Fri, January 18, 2008  4:29 pm CT
Posted by: marcus&diana

i was in my attic and cleaning it and i realized, i had a foley's bag! for those who don't know foley's, it was a store closed down because of macy's, and it's at colorado, texas, louisianna, and some other places. foley's bag!? it reads "always something exciting! foley's" then on the sides it says "foleys.com" & "gifts that excite!" in green and blue colors! and the background has like exclamation points. wow, i had kept this. and now, i can throw away the macy's bags my friends gave me for christmas when they gave me and my wife's and kids gifts.

congratulations field's, your boycotting is actually working... see ya later,next post:january 25th...

marcus&diana


Date: Fri, January 18, 2008  12:08 pm CT
Posted by: Brianl

Having grown up in Chicago, and experiencing the magic of Marshall Field's as a child, it has been very sad to watch the downward evolution of such an amazing brand. As an adult, the magic I experienced as a child was dramatically magnified, as I have had the pleasure of working with Amy Meadows on numerous special projects, as an outside contractor, for over 15 years. Every company has it's "heart and soul" employees, and without a doubt, Amy was one of them. She was dedicated, professional, passionate, fun, respectful, communicated well, and was just a pure delight to work with. She always made decisions based on what was best for the visual presentation of the Marshall Field's brand. And she did it with style and class. I had been watching all the changes going on, hoping that Macy's would pull out of their tailspin, giving them the benefit of the doubt, hoping the magic would remain. With Amy Meadows rude dismissal, we have truly lost a cherished tradition, and some of the spirit of Chicago has been diminished.

Date: Fri, January 18, 2008  12:26 am CT
Posted by: michael murray

I bought my macy's stock today 5 shares for just over $100.00. The shares dipped to just around its 1 year low of $20.94,the best time to buy is around 11am central time. If you only have stocks through a 401k you can just buy a few stocks outside your plan through your existing broker or on one of the many e sights. This vested stockholder will be attending yhe annual stockholders meeting.

Open message to Terry Lundgren: just give us stockholders one last kick in the head and utilize your buyout. It's better to pull a band-aid quickly in the long run.


Date: Thurs, January 17, 2008  11:29 pm CT
Posted by: t z

I am a retired employe of Marshall Field's/May....what Macy's has done to Field's is disgraceful. Target insisted on cleanliness in everything from floors to bathrooms. Macy's has apolicy "you will meet your plan (budget) or else. No one in the press has mentioned the 12 people at Lake Forest (closing this week) or the approx 350 impacted from the Distribution Center in Chicago moving over 50 miles away.

Also, last year I went to a macy's in Daytona Beach (formerly Burdines) to purchase Items from the Crystal Dept. I could have died and decomosed before I was approached, then the item I wanted was out of stock and I had to pay 9.95 shipping to get the Waterford wine glass shipped to Daytona Beach, NO you can't pick up at the store. Later I went to Dillards in the same mall, plenty of help, gift wrap (free) stock on hand.

It appears that the team of Lundren/Trump/and the Fellon are leading Macy's down the path of Campeau/Federated/Allied.....Chapter 11 only this time it should be to Chaper 7.


Date: Thurs, January 17, 2008  11:24 pm CT
Posted by: JamesFromCa

I am in complete agreement with L Grand on this one. It's surreal and borders on the grotesque and absurd that Lunky gets a gold award from this organization of retailers. Why? He took a once proud name, macy's and growing up in the Bay Area macy's WAS a great store that sold middle to very high end merchandise and when he got his hands on it

it's an overpriced private label, junky version of Kohl's that now has lost 50% of it's stock value. If anyone should have gotten an award it should have been Jane Effers of Lord & Taylor. The best thing that ever happened to L&T was being freed from the shackles of mediocrity of Federated.

Effers is taking a proud American name and building on that cache and heritage. I hear all kinds of great things that Effers is doing with the brand. I wish them, Von Maur and Nordstrom huge success. Business can have honor and integrity and not talk down to the public and still make money.


Date: Thurs, January 17, 2008  9:54 pm CT
Posted by: Daniel W. Harcourt II

After reading the post by L. Grand and checking out the hyperlink to the article in the Cincinnati Enquirer sharing that the National Assosiation of Retailers actualy had the audacity to give Terry Lundgren an award, I decided to send an e-mail to the contributor of that story letting him know, to borrow from Paul Harvey, 'the rest of the story'. It'll be interesting to see if my e-mail gets printed-or if I even get a response. Anyone reading my previous posts on this blog can pretty much imagine what I said.

Macy's stock is still cheap, fieldsfans. Pick up a few shares for yourselves and encourage anyone you know who supports the return of Marshall Field's to do likewise. Let's show Lundgren what 'Chicago hard ball' is all about! Fields IS Chicago!

Daniel W. Harcourt II
Schaumburg, IL


Date: Thurs, January 17, 2008  9:53 pm CT
Posted by: B

I haven't posted in a while -- I continue to read everyone's posts and I again THANK Jimmy Gimbels for going to the red star store so I DON"T have to! I also appreciate A. Perkins updates on Mayfair -- once such a beautiful (and original) Marshall Field & Co. location.

It is SOOOOO DEPRESSING and painful to read about the state of the Oakbrook location, I still have it in my memory as the most incredible branch store of ANY and of ALL department stores!!It sounds absolutely HORRIBLE!!!

A BIG round of APPLAUSE and a HUGE THANK YOU and a debt of gratitude to AMY MEADOWS for her wonderful and much appreciated years of service par excellance and for ALL the wonderful memories she has given me -both holiday - and otherwise-- at MARSHALL FIELD and Co.

We will further suffer with the lack of appreciation that the red star store has for appearance and aesthetics but that has already been revealed in the shabby upkeep they have already portrayed.

I also recently walked through a red star store to go to JCPenny. (I parked at the empty red star store lot) I checked out a display of red star store version " Field Gear". Exactly what I expected-- NOT the quality of true Field Gear. Also, an attempt at trendy abercrombie , and hollister type T shirts that were not worth the price and probably would not be a hit with the younger crowd who must (?) be the target? Field Gear was always classic sportswear and sturdy and the red star store version pieces that I saw were NOT that. Continued expected disappointment.

Sad, all very Sad.

Take care all -- Keep up the Boycott

no red star store or bloomingdales!

B

italbearr@yahoo.com


Date: Thurs, January 17, 2008  8:53 pm CT
Posted by: John D.

Thank you, L. Grand, for your posting on macy's CEO, President and Chairman (all rolled into one), Terry Lundgren being awarded a Gold Medal by the National Retail Federation.

The email address for the President and CEO, Ms. Tracy Mullin, National Retail Federation, Washington, DC is as follows:

mullint@nrf.com

http://www.nrf.com/modules.php?name=Contacts&op=viewlive&sp_id=94

I'm sure Field's Fans will rally in mass and question Ms. Mullin's criteria and judgment on this most appalling Gold Medal award selection.


Date: Thurs, January 17, 2008  8:25 pm CT
Posted by: T.R.

I'm behind this cause to bring back Field's 100%. I try to share my discontent to visitors from other states and make sure they don't shop at a Macy's. Keep up the good work!!

Date: Thurs, January 17, 2008  8:01 pm CT
Posted by: LiMack

Zelda recently posted her thoughts about Macy's being in a pronounced downward spiral. Ever since reading that, every time I see a Macy's ad in the paper or drive past a Macy's store I immediately get the mental image of water noisily circling the drain in a bathtub as it empties. That's probably not the sort of cognition Macy's ad agency is going after.

Date: Thurs, January 17, 2008  6:48 pm CT
Posted by: S. Ballo

Earlier this week, Women's Wear Daily had coverage of Monday night's annual Financo Merchandising Chief Executive Seminar and Dinner featuring a number of retail honchos. Terry Lundgren is often there, but was a no show this time.

However, Corporate Takever Legend Carl Icahn was there for the first time ever in the event's 18 years.

The following is an excerpt from the WWD article at http://www.wwd.com/issue/article/121501:

With Macy's Inc. chief executive officer Terry Lundgren a no-show, Icahn saw fit to comment on the chain and the man who leads it."He's a lovely guy. I see him at the tennis matches, and say, 'Terry, why aren't you working?'

"As you know, we have a large position [in Macy's] and have been losing a lot of money on it." Still, with Macy's slumping, and recently having announced a round of store closings, Icahn characterized the retailer as "a very good" company.


Date: Thurs, January 17, 2008  6:18 pm CT
Posted by: denise rule

in regard to: "Posted by: Daniel W. Harcourt II

I had heard that Terry Lundgren was recently on an episode of 'The Apprentice' and I'm pretty sure that I just saw him in a re-run of that episode. If I saw and heard what I think I did, I am flabbergasted. I'm pretty sure that I saw and heard Terry Lundgren telling a member of one of the teams, 'What do you think the client wants?"

yep!!!! that's what he said. i happened to be 'clicking' by and caught that stupid show during a commercial of whatever i was watching JUST AS T.L. WAS WALKING INTO THE ROOM! that's what he said and i thought OMG! how original! and what nerve! he's ASKING THIS ON NATIIONAL T.V. that's all i saw of it. too creepy.


Date: Thurs, January 17, 2008  3:58 pm CT
Posted by: Michael Murray

I think the idea of purchasing Macy's stock is the right way to go, there is nothing like putting our money where our mouth's are. I am now going to go from antagonist to vested party. I think if we all purchase what we could afford to risk then we would be proactive instead of reactive. Letb�s do this--we're onto something here i want to see how it feels to have my CEO answer to me!!!

Date: Thurs, January 17, 2008  2:51 pm CT
Posted by: Joe

I've heard that Macy's has been offering buyout packages to more than a couple of long-time Field's employees who have stayed with Macy's. I understand that back in the past several months there have been at least two dates when employees being bought out have left.

Wouldn't surprise me if some of these layoffs and firings are targeted at those who chose to stay on rather than accept the buyout. It seems as if Lundgren and company want to disassemble Marshall Field's any way they can--firing people like Amy Meadows shows how little they care about traditions and local character.


Date: Thurs, January 17, 2008  12:32 pm CT
Posted by: FieldsFansChicago.org

After a letter about speculation on a name-switch from Wrigley Field to another corporate sponsor, this week's Letters to the Editors of Crains Chicago Business also includes a letter from FieldsFansChicago.org:

...more than a name
Crain's wrote, "Any buyer of Wrigley Field naming rights could risk the kind of backlash that Federated Department Stores encountered when it changed the name of the Marshall Field and Co. department store chain to Macy's. Protesters demonstrated outside the landmark State Street store and urged shoppers to boycott the chain."

As an organizer of the ongoing protest and boycott activities against Macy's in support of the return of Marshall Field's, I must point out that we are protesting more than a name change. We are also protesting the reduction in merchandise and service quality.

Macy's is a different kind of store than Field's. Furthermore, not only has our group demonstrated in the past, we also continue to do so.

JAMES J. McKAY
Co-organizer
FieldsFansChicago.org
Chicago


Date: Thurs, January 17, 2008  10:55 am CT
Posted by: Andy Page

I have to join the 10's of thousands here who have expressed the common cry, Bring Back Marshall Field's, stupid!!!!!

While I visited my Mom's home over the holidays, I looked around to see many of the items purchased from Marshall Field's over the years, vases, clocks, scarves, etc. All were made of the highest quality and all are still beautiful today.

Now that's why Marshall Field and Company is so beloved and why so, so many Fields Fans won't rest until this great store and institution is restored in the Chicagoland market.


Date: Thurs, January 17, 2008  9:12 am CT
Posted by: John D.

Here is another shopping center website, Field's Fans, on which you may let your feelings be known about the totally unsatisfactory conditions at macy's stores. Taubman Centers, Inc. owns Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg, Illinois. Here is the link:

http://www.shopwoodfield.com/

If you want to send a message to the local Woodfield Management Office, look for the "CONTACT US" a few lines up from the very bottom of the home page.

Scroll down and at the very bottom of the home page you may click on CORPORATE INFO if you want to send your remarks to the executive offices.

P.S. Yesterday, I overheard one person saying to another:

"You sure don't hear Terry Lundgren, Frank Guzzetta, Ralph Hughes or Linda Piepho uttering the words like they used to:

'Nothing has changed at Field's. We've kept the traditions. Only the name has changed'". (By now, more and more of the news media has caught on, thank goodness, with the most recent personnel and department eliminations.)

As do all Field's Fans, I send my heartfelt feelings of sadness to those sterling professional, career, long-time MF employees who made, Marshall Field's, Marshall Field's! You are MF's most important and critical resource. As with everything about the takeover, macy's management does not have a clue as to how to operate the ultimate department store, Marshall Field's. Please know, all Marshall Field's associates, that we are behind you and want each and everyone of you back on the job, when Marshall Field's returns!

Keep the Faith!


Date: Thurs, January 17, 2008  7:59 am CT
Posted by: jimmy gimbels

So you got a Macy's gift card for Christmas? Don't throw it in a drawer or in the trash. USE IT! WHAT are you saying Jimmy Gimbels? Shop at the Red Star? (shudder)

Well, um, yes! Why let Macy's just keep the money? Buy sale items like gloves, hats, coats and donate to charity. Some organizations will also accept blankets and towels. Lots of winter items are now on serious markdowns to try to get generate some revenue. Keep the reciept so you can take the donation as a tax write off.

Wear your Marshall Field's button (or bring a Field's shopping bag) and tell the poor clerk stuck working for Macy's exactly what you are doing. To all those folks who have not been in a Macy's lately: BE READY FOR A SHOCK. You will see how downmarket the stores have become. That in itself will be enough to energize you to keep the boycott going strong. Oh, and because of all the cut backs, you will have to hunt to find a live body to ring up the sale..so wear comfortable shoes.

AND OTHER MATTERS

- Macy's press release said layoffs would not be until March. Funny how many of the restaurants closed instantly leaving several food vendors holding the bag. And stunned employees told to "just leave."

- The number listed in news story is about M-people being fired includes only full-time employees. The number does not include all the part time people who had their hours cut back or the part time positions that were eliminated.

- How did the media get hold of the name of the display director who was fired? Do I sense a fellow Field's Fan at work?

- RUMOR: Walnut Room might only be open on weekends OR only during the holiday season.


Date: Thurs, January 17, 2008  1:56 am CT
Posted by: L. Grand

I'm convinced now. The world has gone mad. I have just discovered one reason and the only reason necessary not to EVER take seriously a group called the National Federation of Retailers. They've just awarded Lunkhead with a gold medal? For what? Never mind. The world has gone mad. The proof is found here:

http://news.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2008801160381

Pardon me while I barf while simultaneously reeling in a state of incredulity. The madness of Macy's - it's not just for breakfast anymore!


Date: Wed, January 16, 2008  11:17 pm CT
Posted by: A. Perkins

Drew better copywrite that jingle before Lundgren does use it for macy's.

He would rather steal your free jingle here than pay an advertising agency to come up with one.

No need for you to give Lundgren a free jingle.


Date: Wed, January 16, 2008  10:52 pm CT
Posted by: Kuraigulee

Just want you to know that I used to live in Florida and Federated did the same thing to Burdines. I now live in Atlanta and they did the same thing to Rich's. I buy a ton of suits and clothing and none, repeat, NONE will come from Macy's or Bloomingdales until they restore these great regional stores. The great thing about Burdines and Richs was they carried items that reflected, to a certain extent, the flavor of the community. Why Federated would create what seems like nothing more than an upscale Wal-Mart, with the same inventory across the country, is beyond me. This whole scheme has "Bain consultant" written all over it.

Date: Wed, January 16, 2008  10:28 pm CT
Posted by: John D

Field's Fans who miss shopping at the Marshall Field's stores at River Oaks Mall in Calumet City and Orland Square Mall in Orland Park, Illinois may want to write their displeasure and how you have stopped shopping at macy's because of the dirty conditons, the lack of any customer service, and its greatly downscaled merchandising selection. Simon Property Group, Inc. of Indianapolis is the owner of both centers, and is the nation's second largest shopping mall owner.

https://www.simon.com/about_simon/contact_spg/default.aspx

Fans of Regional Department Stores which have been taken over my macy's, may want to go to the same website to inform Simon executives of the sad state of shopping...or should we say, NOT shopping...at the Red Star stores. Fields Fans outside of Illinois may want to check the Simon website to determine if Simon owns any malls in their neighborhoods which lost our revered and irreplaceable Field's stores.


Date: Wed, January 16, 2008  10:28 pm CT
Posted by: Macy'sEast-I-told-you-so

Dear Drew,

We care about Macy's yet we want them to return and retain the regional department stores and the services like restaurants...etc.

You must have been to Macy's the Cross County Shopping Center ! The mall is historic,it's being remade but instead of wonderful restaurants, there are soda machines,snack machines,empty pretzel bags and candy wrappers on the floor instead of a wonderful restaurant with windows as portrayed in pictures of the restaurant when the store was Gimbel's.

This is still an outdoor mall, an original outdoor mall (not a lifestyle center) and it has been since the 1950s.

While this is not the neighborhood it used to be and demographics do change, Cross County Center is undergoing a renovation.

The question is, if Sears (in the former John Wanamaker building) can have an in-store walk-up cafe serving hotdogs and snacks on the top floor, then why is their only vending available at Macy's ?

It's amazing, either you have been there or you are psychic !

Thanks.


Date: Wed, January 16, 2008  8:48 pm CT
Posted by: Daniel W. Harcourt II

I had heard that Terry Lundgren was recently on an episode of 'The Apprentice' and I'm pretty sure that I just saw him in a re-run of that episode. If I saw and heard what I think I did, I am flabbergasted. I'm pretty sure that I saw and heard Terry Lundgren telling a member of one of the teams, 'What do you think the client wants?' If what I think I saw and heard really happened and Terry Lundgren happens to be monitoring this blog, in case we've been unclear as clients as to what we want, allow me to make it perfectly clear-WE WANT MARSHALL FIELDS!!!!!!!!!!!!!! CHICAGO SHOPS AT MARSHALL FIELDS!!!!!!!!!!

Daniel W. Harcourt II
Schaumburg, IL


Date: Wed, January 16, 2008  8:47 pm CT
Posted by: Mark in Phila

Hello Fields Fans,

The former Strawbridge stores around Philadelphia look worse than ever. In Cherry Hill, they closed the beautiful Strawbridge store and left open the dumpy Macy's. At that Macy's, look through the pitiful selection of mens dress shirts and ties thrown in piles and around the floor, and ponder where is your size, why is such undistinctive merchandise priced so high, and why didn't you go straight to Marshalls or Ross to be treated this carelessly. We watched when they went like Rome into Pittsburgh to pillage Lazarus, in Atlanta to Rich's, in Miami to Burdines, and didn't realize it could happen here!

The sad new model of American retail business, I notice, is called market share. I noticed this last year, every time TL was asked what about all the resentment toward messys, he dodged the question with some spin about market share. All of us who shopped at Fields already know that raising market share is code for eliminating competition, raising prices, and having more power over desperate vendors like Tommy Hilfiger, or sharing the spotlight with celebretards like Paris Hilton and Donald Trump. More short term pillaging but long term disaster. In prioritzing market share as a way to run a business how far we have come from the standards of Marshall Field and John Wanamaker who spoke of integrity, honesty and truth as a way to bring in customers. Nowadays I'd settle for a decent pair of pants.

To think I wrote to messys protesting the loss of Field Gear menswear among many other things and got some spin response about underperforming brands. Hey TL -- who's the underperforming brand now!!!!!

How honored I feel to see this site and be a part of a new movement in America, that as consumers it is time to put our money into businesses that value customers and employees, and build market share the old fashioned way, one happy person at a time. I believe in you all and the power we have to bring Fields back.


Date: Wed, January 16, 2008  7:59 pm CT
Posted by: Mary A H

I worked for Amy Meadows, in Marshall Field's Window Display Dept., 20 years ago and was so sad to hear of her firing. I live in Santa Barbara now - my mother called to tell me the news.

Marshall Field's was such a special place. From viewing the Christmas windows as a child - to actually working on them as an adult . . . I have so many great memories of Marshall Field's! I try to explain to my California friends the magic of Marshall Field's - they don't quite get it - yet they all wish they had those special memories.

I stopped shopping at Macy's after the change - and closed my Macy's credit card.

Everything about Marshall Field's - especailly the windows - will never be forgotten!!


Date: Wed, January 16, 2008  7:18 pm CT
Posted by: Zelda

THE TIDE IS DEFINITELY TURNING, FIELD'S FANS! From our point of view it seems like it's taken forever, but in retail time, I guess we're right on schedule with our successful boycott on the way to the return of Field's. The downward spiral of the m store ia picking up speed, thanks to our determination to stay away from shopping there, and their poor management, making for an unhappy shopping experience even for those willing to give macy's a try.

To me, the broken doors on the Randolph side of the former Field's flagship store have become metaphors for poor management, forgetting about the convenience of the patrons, losing sight of the classy image of the predecessor (which it coasted on for a while). Customers can't help but notice that months after they first noticed the broken doors (3 of them, in a row!), they're still out of order!

Of course the poor Christmas sales are highly significant, especially following month after month of terrible sales. But it's the aftermath that's finally gotten the media's attention: the store closings and the layoffs. Even to the previously blind, the handwriting is on the wall!

Perhaps most significant -- climactic, really!-- is the laying off of Amy Meadows. She may be just one of the hundreds of layoffs, but oh my goodness, what she stands for! For years and years the Marshall Field's Christmas windows brought joy to Chicagoans and visitors alike.

They were an institution! What a way to treat this invaluable employee after 25 years! I guarantee you, anyone who heard this story on the news thought, "How could they DO that!"

I call this callous act climactic because it is clear evidence that the tide is turning. Years ago, I used to teach "Macbeth," and I have often thought that Macbeth and Lundgren have a lot in common. Both driven by greed, never seeing that their treacherous acts point them closer and closer to disaster. The climax of Macbeth is when a seemingly minor character (Fleance, son of Banquo) escapes, for this is the first time the tide begins to turn against Macbeth.

Amy Meadows being laid off may seem similarly minor, but its significance will be evident in the coming months.

Life doesn't always imitate art, but let's hope that the end of Lungreed's (power) play, order is restored, as it so often is in Shakespeare. Unquestionably, this means the return of Marshall Field's and the return of all its most outstanding employees.

THIS IS OUR YEAR.


Date: Wed, January 16, 2008  5:07 pm CT
Posted by: AxN

I said to a Macy's employee last week "you know, I heard you might lose your restaurant." They reacted in shock and said "oh no, no, no, no, they'd never do that."

By the way, L. Grand, have you said anything about the Woodland Macy's (former Hudson's), ever? I'm surprised it looks as good as it does.


Date: Wed, January 16, 2008  1:21 pm CT
Posted by: Lee

I am so sorry to hear about the latest lay-offs, but not surprised. I met Ms. Meadows several times, along with her staff, and know that she will be missed in many ways throughout that store. One can only imagine that soon the windows will disppear (as they already have been minimized to 9 instead of 13) followed by the tree (b/c I am sure the writing is on the wall for the walnut room).

-Lee


Date: Wed, January 16, 2008  12:34 pm CT
Posted by: Mike P

Looking at the comments from the past few days, let me add anothe Mall Property that has the M-store in it here in the Chicago area....Simon Properties. The two locations that I am aware of are: River Oaks Mall and Orland Square in Orland Park, Illinois.

Here is the direct link to their Feedback page:

https://www.simon.com/about_simon/contact_spg/default.aspx

Mike P


Date: Wed, January 16, 2008  9:17 am CT
Posted by: Drew

Thanks to A. Perkins for his description of the Red Star Store as a big Bargain Basement. That pretty much says it all.

As he cuts back on sales staff, maintenance, display personnel, and every semblance of quality or class, Lunkhead has enabled today's customer to experience the Bargain Basement shopping of long ago.

As I suggested in an earlier post, all the Red Star Store now needs is an "exciting" Always One Dollar department to better compete with Big Lots, Ollie's, and other buyout and clearance centers.

New ads could feature Lunkhead's "celebrity" artist Usher singing this jingle: Make your dollars go far/ Look for the Red Star.


Date: Wed, January 16, 2008  1:00 am CT
Posted by: John O'Brien

macy's has been offering buyout packages to long time Field's employees who have stayed with Macy's. Back in the past several months there have been at least two dates when employees being bought out have left.

Wouldn't surprise me if some of these layoffs and firings are targeted at those who chose to stay on rather than accept the buyout.


Date: Tues, January 15, 2008  CT
Posted by: Oak Brook Employee

I work @ Macy's OakBrook, and I want to tell you that I am so sad about the Bistro closing. I can tell you that the 25 or so people that lost their jobs are real and have families. I worked on friday when they closed (with no notice to the employees) and was crying with them.


Date: Tues, January 15, 2008  10:48 pm CT
Posted by: S.B.

They took me to State Street. I went right into Loehmann's today and had a great shopping experience. Thanks Macy's!

It is interesting that Macy's is working to trademark "Take Me To State Street." (notice the "tm" after the phrase) Perhaps they will continue to promote State Street reta il and help the Old Navy's, Nordstrom Rack's, Loehmann's, Urban Outfitters, Block 37s of State Street succeed!


Date: Tues, January 15, 2008  8:59 pm CT
Posted by: Tim R

I've been to New York several times, most recently in the summer of 2006. I've visited Macy's each time, mostly wanting to discover what the "hype" is all about in it being the "world's l argest" department store. Each time I come out scratching my head wondering why. Macy's flagship store in Herald Square doesn't even come close to the charm

and dignity that Marshall Field's State Street "had." And, I was startled to walk into one of the restrooms at Macy's in New York last summer and find it horribly filthy. By reading the o ther posts on here, it sounds like this is a common trait of "Messy's." It has been said that if a restaurant has dirty restrooms, you shouldn't eat a meal there. The same should be said for department stores...dirty restrooms, don't SHOP there!


Date: Tues, January 15, 2008  8:27 pm CT
Posted by: A. Perkins

Lundgren said he would reinvent the department store, well he really didn't reinvent it but he did bring something back that was a fixture of department stores in days gone by...

The Bargan Basement!

Do you remember 40 years or more ago, before there were outlet malls and TJ Maxx? Back then department stores had the bargan basement. Even classy flagship department stores had not so classy basements.

Do you remember dump tables with clearance items? Clearance racks in the center aisles, and boxes piled on the floor? These were once fixtures of the bargan basement of major department stores.

Thanks to Lundgren the bargan basement is back, but this time in full force! Not only can you find it in the basement of your local macy's but you can find it on every floor and in every department. How convenient for the shopper!

Lundgren has turned macy's into one big bargan basement!

You can find junk piled everywhere!


Date: Tues, January 15, 2008  8:19 pm CT
Posted by: A. Perkins

There's no need to have anyone decorate the Christmas windows anymore with Lundgren in charge. They'll just rotate and recycle the windows from store to store for years to come. It's be en already reported that former Field's Christmas windows showed up in former Kaufmann stores this past Christmas.

Recycled Christmas windows, just another "exciting" change at macy's!


Date: Tues, January 15, 2008  7:00 pm CT
Posted by: Drew

James from CA has clearly summarized the macy*mart debacle in one paragraph. Too bad the Board of Directors, shareholders and executive officers haven't been able to see what has happened .

The firing of Amy Meadows, a long-time display designer, further proves that Lunkhead has almost completed his fiendish plans to destroy American department stores. By saving a few cents he has cost the business thousands of dollars; his initial cutbacks may have increased profits, but the cutbacks caused a long-term loss of customers.

Terry will blame the economy for macy*mart's woes rather than accept the blame for his arrogance and poor decision making. His choice to take the stores downmarket came at an especially bad time; the converted stores offer neither style, quality, value or service. There is absolutely no reason for shoppers to even consider visiting a macy*mart.

At this point, I don't think there is much that can be done to save macy*mart from more store closures, more layoffs and eventual bankruptcy!


Date: Tues, January 15, 2008  5:29 pm CT
Posted by: John M

What a mess. Macys wants to reinvent the Department Stores? Start by not upseting the customer, by bringing in cheep merchandise and no service. And saying the sales are down so cut backs are in order. The cut backs should start at the top of the company. The company needs to have management that listens to the customers needs and not upset the customer. Since there is a need and a want for the name Marshall Fields and Company. The Macys company can do a stand alone store on State Srteet called Marshall Fields and Company. (What a thought). With the type of merchandis and services the customer Keeps on asking for. The customers would be happy and the Macys company would reap the benifits. And that would be called good Management!!!

Date: Tues, January 15, 2008  4:50 pm CT
Posted by: MacyEast-I-TOLDyouSO

Well,it's happening. The Macy's East mindset is taking hold. Marshall Field's is being taken down to Macy's East standard. Don't you see, Macy's Herald Square is like a 9 story flea market with just another McDonald's and Cucina to boot. There is nothing unique,elegant or special about Herald Square anymore ! They have taken out the class and honor of the place. If they c an allow that to happen, how could you possibly expect current management to care or even consider the quality of Marshall Field's ?

Walnut Room ? Macy's East people thinks thats the room where the foam packing peanuts are stored.

Restaurants closing, chief window dressers being fired, it's all very sad.

Marshall Field's is like a quality gem. It has to be polished. It has to be saved.

FLAGSHIP DEPARTMENT STORES SHOULD BE TREATED LIKE RETAIL WONDERS. THEY SHOULD BE CLEAN,WONDERUL AND A SHOWPLACE.

For those of you who are not familiar with Macy's, there is a second part to the "magic of macy's" slogan. It's, "the magic of Macy's,we're a part of your life."

When the magic of Macy's was a part of your life, it was truly a store to be proud of. Unfortunately, today's Macy's is going to have to do some pretty heavy magic to bring back its core guests because these days, even the most loyal Macy's people as we certainly do not want the store to be a part of our lives like we used to.

----------------

So upsetting,it's hard to write anymore. Here's hoping the powers that be at Federated have enough sense to realize that ONES NAME IS EVERYTHING.

THERE IS POWER IN THE NAME AND REGIONAL DEPARTMENT STORES HAVE A LEGACY OF RESPECT THAT IS WORTH REVIVING. THIS MADE UP MACY'S MONARCHY IS NOT HONORING THAT LEGACY.

HERE'S TO THE FUTURE DEPARTMENT STORE BUSINESS IN AMERICA AND MANAGEMENT THAT UNDERSTANDS SOMETHING THAT A MAN NAMED MAX HESS JR.UNDERSTOOD, YOU HAVE TO BE A MERCANT FIRST, THEN YOU CAN COUNT YOUR BEANS ! Then again,what does he know,he only built the company from the ground up, he didn't have the titled of chief cook,bottle washer and ball catcher !

------------------

All the best.


Date: Tues, January 15, 2008  3:42 pm CT
Posted by: Matt

Assuming Macy's makes it to next Christmas, it will be very interesting to see what the Holiday windows will look like next year. Don't be surprized if Muckity Muck doesn't even bother.. .. You know, cost cutting.

Date: Tues, January 15, 2008  3:30 pm CT
Posted by: Lee

I am so sorry to hear about the latest lay-offs, but not surprised. I met Ms. Meadows several times, along with her staff, and know that she will be missed in many ways throughout that store. If Macy's sticks around, one can only imagine that soon the windows will disppear (as they already have been minimized to 9 instead of 13) followed by the tree (b/c I am sure the writing is on the wall for the walnut room). Of course, we predicted this here back in the summer of 2006.

-Lee


Date: Tues, January 15, 2008  3:10 pm CT
Posted by: Stephanie

I hate shopping at macys the store is dirty and the carpet in the store looks like it has not been cleaned in decades! I am not in the least bit suprised that the sales are down at macys and I hope they continue to keep going down.


Date: Tues, January 15, 2008  2:42 pm CT
Posted by: L. Grand

I also want to mention that while I as getting my hair done at JCPenney's Hair Salon yesterday, my husband walked around the mall (Rivertown Crossings Mall in Grandville, MI) to kill two hours of wait time. Part of his journey took him to Macy's quite purposefully: he walked around, noting the usual lack of staff, compelling merchandise, and overall shopping "experience."

His moseying took him to Men's clothing, Men's fragrances, and Foods (or what's left of it). In each department, he walked up to the salesperson and said, "You don't look very happy." In each case the salesperson agreed in some form that he/she was NOT happy. My husband then gave them a Marshall Field's Forever button and told them to check out this website "to make you feel better." Each salesperson THANKED him and said they would - this brought a smile to each of their faces. BTW - he did spend a couple dollars there, but ONLY because he knew I'd wished I'd had some Marshall Field's Frango Peppermints. I was very glad to get them, and sad at the same time that Macy's got two of our dollars! Too bad Macy's hadn't kept it Field's in every aspect - THEY WOULD HAVE GOT MUCH MORE THAN TWO DOLLARS! I guess that concept is just a bit unacceptable to Lundgren's refusal to admit he can (as he has proven) ROYALLY SCREW THINGS UP! But take heart, Terry - we spent TWO dollars! Whoopee!


Date: Tues, January 15, 2008  9:37 am CT
Posted by: John D.

Yesterday I provided you all with the website for General Growth Properties, Inc. I mentioned how you may contact General Growth's Corporate Office on its homepage with your comments about macy's and missing Marshall Field's. You may also contact your favorite mall's manager by finding your mall and clicking on the name. (For you Regional Department Store Fans elsewhere, you may scroll down on the website to find a mall close you you on which to comment about macy's and how it has ruined your own regional store.

General Growth (www.ggp.com) is the largest shopping center owner and manager in the United States, by the way. Certainly it has influence by its dominance and strength.

I want to highlight the malls in Chicagoland which GGP owns and manages that include the store formerly known as Marshall Field & Company: Water Tower Place, Oakbrook Center, Northbrook Court, Spring Hill Mall in West Dundee, and Mayfair Mall in Milwaukee.

Today I'm including the website for the Westfield Corporation, which owns Old Orchard, Fox Valley, Louis Joliet and Hawthorne Malls in the Chicago area. Once again, you may complain, (I mean...comment (!) directly to the Corporate Office at "CONTACT US" on the homepage and/or by choosing your closest mall and going to that respective website and complaining, whoops, I mean commenting.

http://westfield.com/uscentres/

Date: Tues, January 15, 2008  8:35 am CT
Posted by: Cheri B.

Although I live in Ohio- shopping at Marshall Fields in Chicago was part of my daughter's and mine happy "family tradition" when we were in Chicago for years. It was our big "back to school" shop or sometimes we made the trip for "Field Days" in October. Whatever it was we loved Marshall Fields - in Chicago! We also shopped the stores in Columbus,Ohio when we could get there.. but our FIRST choice was MF in Chicago!! Wow- what beautiful wonderful stores!

The service- what great employees.And who could forget food ! Of course at any MF we loaded up on FRANGO Mints which was always our "reason" for coming it in those days..

I am really sad about MF and what has happened. Like most people I live near a Macy's store and I don't shop there. I think that Macy's has "gotten greedy" about eating up all the local stores. In Ohio, Macy's has "killed" Lazarus ( in Columbus), Shillito's ( in Cincinnati) and Rike's ( in Dayton). I wish all those shoppers would join in on this effort as well. What is Macy's trying to be- ?? Wal-mart? Kmart? I hope that at some point this big monolith steam rolling "machine" will at least see some reason and "release" the Marshall Field stores and return the operation and name back.


Date: Tues, January 15, 2008  1:26 am CT
Posted by: Jeff W.

Posted from ABC7Chicago website:

CHICAGO -- The executives of Macy's Incorporated recently announced the impending elimination of 100 jobs at its Chicago-area stores.

Now it turns out that one of those being laid off is Amy Meadows, who spent 25 years creating the elaborate window displays at what used to be Marshall Field's flagship store on Chicago's State Street. Meadows would also make sure every twinkling star on the Great Tree in the store's famed Walnut Room was just right.

Meadows is senior manager of window displays. She started her career at Marshall Field's as a window designer and eventually came to mastermind the creation of all the store's displays and the Great Tree.

If anyone knows Amy Meadows, please thank her for all of the wonderful years that she gave when she was at Field's. Hopefully some day she will be able to come back to our beloved store when it is reborn and the Red Star carpetbaggers are kicked out of town. Down with the imperialist Red Star!


Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  11:38 pm CT
Posted by: Bryan

There were a couple of really well-reported stories about the layoffs at macy's, including the firing of Amy Meadows who did the windows.

Channel 5 had the most extensive story. They showed Ms. Meadows putting together Christmas displays. They also showed Field's Fans leafleting on State Street and interviewed someone passing out the leaflets from this site. Most interestingly, NBC5 showed the front page of this very website with the camera zooming in on the one photo with the apple sign saying Macy's should go back to New York.

The link is at:

http://video.nbc5.com/player/?id=205067

Also, there was a shorter news story about the cuts at Macy's on tonight's 10 PM news on CBS2. It talked about the firing of Amy Meadows after 25 loyal years. It also had comments from the same guy who passed out leaflets in the NBC5 segement.

If anyone could find the URL of the CBS2 news story tonight, I wish they'd post it.


Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  11:36 pm CT
Posted by: JamesFromCA

From what I have read The Downward Spiral has begun. This is the usual scenario: Sales are low, the reaction is to cut back salespeople, customers come in don't see any employees they go else where. Sales go down even farther, the reaction, cut back maintenance, customers now see the stores looking dirty and unkempt, sales go down agai n. Now it's merchandisers and visuals people who get let go, stores now look drab besides looking dirty and few salespeople, the public once again is turned off and stop buying... and the vicious circle just keeps going... Until someone outside of the yes men (hello Guzetta) and quislings comes in and says ENOUGH IS ENOUGH and takes an offense position and shakes things up. I think it's going to get worse before it gets better and the only real change is when "the three headed one" is finally sent pack ing once and for all. To me he is running out of excuses for this colossal failure, but when will anyone in that company finally stand up and call him out on it?? This i s a lesson to all that one individual shouldn't be CEO, chairman of the board and CFO, it bad juju all around and it can be dangerous.

Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  10:44 pm CT
Posted by: Andrew P

I am truly saddened by the loss of Marshall Field's. I have not set foot in any of the stores (since the takeover in Septermber of 2006) until this past Christmas when I received one of your depressing "red star" gift cards. I went into the Oakbrook store (where I had gone since i was a child) and thought what a MESS!! I was disgusted ..... The place was dirty, lighting dingy, and the staff VERY unfriendly and unprofessional. Obviously Macy's has no intention of making a go of it as there has been N O physical investment or changes. I ran into one employee whose attire was so dirty that I had seen better dressed staff at WalMart. The staff also has no class, what a mess you've made of our gem. And with the news of the Marketplace closings at all locations, it's obvious that it's only a matter of time before you close for good. M r. Lundgren, SHAME ON YOU!! I will not set foot again in your store until it returns to Marshall Field's.

As for the gift card, it will sit and gather dust...

BRING BACK FIELD'S!!!!!!


Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  10:30 pm CT
Posted by: Mrs. W

Hi All,

Is anyone really surprised by Macy's announced layoffs in the Midwest? Maybe Terry Lundgren and Mr. Lampert of Sears can have a race to see which department store can g o out of business first?? If it were not so sad; it would be funny to see these two ego-maniacs duking it out by just squeezing more and more costs out of their departme nt store operations. All we are left with is two spiraling down enterprises, with two boneheads as Chairmen. There is nothing, and I mean nothing left of the former Mar shall Field's worth ever visiting a Macy's store again.

What is so sad are the opportunities squandered by Macy's management to return a gem to Chicago and the World. Does anyone picking up a fashion magazine ever see Macy's listed as one of the stores in which to find something Couture or Fashionable??? Of course not, you really miss not seeing Marshall Field's in magazines such as Vogue t o Chicago Social. No fashion editor ever wants to see Macy's other than their advertisement dollars. I've noticed that their script seems to be getting smaller and sma ller, without the red-star on a number of their advertisements. Seems no one else wants to even look at that name being associated with fashion. No wonder the restaura nts are all closing as anyone shopping in Macy's these days has to hold there breath because the smell in their stores is so fowl. No one is staying in their stores lon g enough to buy anything let alone eat something!! Great way to generate excitement isn't it Mr. Lundgren???

One last story worth sharing, over the holidays with family and friends the most sought after gift were several forest green Marshall Field boxes(of course, it goes with out saying that nothing was purchased actually at a Messymart). All of us were fighting over who got to take them home. We started a bidding war over one,a large fur b ox, that one relative wanted back.

That could have been Federated keeping the elegant tradition alive; but no, they all knew better to create one big homogenous, boring, downmarket, Chinese dog-haired swe ater importer of a department store. My only concellation is to continue to see their stock sinking daily with little upside. We await the final death of the SS Titanic by mid-year with the hopes of either a management change at corporate headquarters or a buyout of the company by an investment company concluding that the pieces(especi ally Marshall Field's) are worth much more than the whole!!

Keep the faith everyone, the consumer rules!

Mrs. W


Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  9:18 pm CT
Posted by: Daniel W. Harcourt II

Fieldsfans,

To anyone who is interested, it only takes 1(ONE)share of Macy's stock to make a difference. ( Closing price of Macy's-ticker symbol 'M'-was $21.99 on 1/14/08 ) That 1 s hare entitles you to direct access to Terry Ludgren and EVERY member of the Macy's board of directors. If, after buying that 1 share of Macy's, you write to Mr. Ludgre n and the Macy's Board, they HAVE to acknowledge you. As an owner of the company, your vote counts in determining not only who sits on the Board of Directors-but also w ho is in the highly covetted President/CEO seat. Furthermore, that same 1 share gives you the RIGHT to attend the Macy's annual shareholder meeting-usually held in May. We can be ignored as patrons-as we have-and we can be ignored as protesters-as we also have, but as stockholders we have a very real voice in what happens in the compa ny. If all Fieldsfans literally owned just a few shares-and actively used them-it is very conceivable that we could literally FORCE Macy's to either bring back Marshall Fields-or to sell off the old Marshall Fields stores-including the Marshall Fields name-to investors who would bring it back.

Personally, I see Marshall Fields as the US equivilant of Harrods of London. Since Terry Lundgren obviously lacks the management skills and vision necessary to lead a world class company, we're either going to have to have him removed from his position-like the fate of Charles Prince of Citigroup and Ed Zander of Motorola in 2007-and replace him with competent leadership who will bring back Marshall Fields or force Macy's to sell the former Marshall Fields stores-including the Marshall Fields name-to investors who will bring back Marshall Fields.

If the base for the Statue of Liberty could be build with the pennies, dimes and nickles of Americans who believed in what that statue stands for, certainly we Fieldsfan s in the 21st century can bring back our beloved Marshall Field's with everyone buying a few shares at a time! Chicago shops at Marshall Fields-not Macy's!

Daniel W. Harcourt II
Schaumburg, IL


Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  7:41 pm CT
Posted by: Dan McG.

I live downtown in Columbus,Ohio and we were fortunate to have a Marshall Field's for many years before it became a Kauffmans and then a rubber stamp Macy's. The store h as finally closed and the only bright spot is that when the temporary Macy's sign was removed, the original bronze Marshall Field's sign was again revealed. I will alway s miss that store and miss going to Chicago and shopping at the original Marshall Field's on State Street!

Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  7:09 pm CT
Posted by: JBoy5990

I have posted comments on here before but I have not since I visited the state street sotre since the takeover. Oh my GOD! We went to the walnut room and the famous pot pie was not even pot pie! It was a bowl of creamy cold chicken soup with sweet (not savory) pieces of puff pastry placed on the top. It was horrible. I will only by Fran gos there and they must have MARSHALL FIELDS on the front of the box. I hope they go under. But now, what I am worried about is the fact that if they close, they might n ot reopen it as a marshall fields. They meight sell it and it might become something horrible like the beloved Carson Pirie Scott Building. I hope nothing will happen to the building like that, but Marshall Fields better come back if they want business. The store was so quiet and there was nobody there. I love my marshall fields and I h ope it stays a department store.... JUST NOT MACYS.

I also was in Lake Forest which I love. I saw their old Marshall Fields and it was the coolest little deparment store that I have ever seen. That store at least still ha s some Green on teh outside AND a very small macys banner on the roof. Thankfully it still has two plaques on both entry pillars that say MARSHALL FIELD AND COMPANY. I L OVE ALL MARSHALL FIELDS FANS AND WE CAN HOPEFULL GET THIS STORE BACK FROM HORRIBLE TERRY LUNDGREN


Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  5:54 pm CT
Posted by: James Miller

At this point, it's pretty plain that the people here have been proven correct, and that a handful of visionless Macy's bigwigs have driven away success by their own act ions.

Acting from a mindset of domination is incompatible with the spirit of service which underpins value in the area of business the Macy's people are in. Sadly, the drive o f the few to dominate the customers of the Chicago area have ruined it for the many among their employees who might otherwise enjoyed the fruits which come of a spirit o f service, if only those who directed them had a grasp of it.

Imagine what could have been. Picture the joy and the happy memories which could have been had for everyone concerned.

While there is still time for Marshall Field's to be revitalized, the question stands as to whether Macy's management can act out of this mindset where serving their cu stomers' needs is the main focus. With the Marshall Field's brand, which they can easily utilize, in an earnest spirit of service, success can be yet had.


Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  5:19 pm CT
Posted by: Vanessa Johnson

Regarding the layoffs---I feel sorry for those losing their jobs. Macy's should be redfaced. However, it was bound to happen. I WALKED through Macy's at Water Tower ove r Christmas to use the restroom and it looked like a pig sty. The bathroom was filthy, clothes were falling off the racks, and the Xmas vibe was suffering. All remnant s of class were gone.

I wish someone would step in and buy the brand and the stores back and restore the Field's name. Keep hope alive!


Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  5:16 pm CT
Posted by: Nora B

i saw the web site on the news tonight during an NBC5 Chicago story about layoffs at macy's.

i agree with what representatives from this site stated in that the store might not have been is financial trouble, had it remained fields, and retained the same level o f service and quality.

the staff as well as items for sale at macys are severely lacking in quality and have made my decision to never shop at macy's much easier.

it's too bad that some of the former field's staff have to suffer, but macy's is horrible...bring back field's!!!


Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  4:46 pm CT
Posted by: Jack K

Heard a radio spot early this morning on WBBM for Messys asking customers if they did not want to "continue Christmas" or some such phrasing to come in to redeem their M acy's Gift Cards. For What? The merchandise at most stores is thin, a mess (messy's after all) and they are cutting out many different types of merchandise.

You would think that they would be happy to keep the cash in the till rather than moving merchandise, but maybe Tery thinks someone might ACTUALLY spend their OWN money there. NOT!

Way to FLOP !

JACK


Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  3:47 pm CT
Posted by: Kurt G

We'll be back in Chicago in June for a few days before returning (by train) to Portland, Oregon. There is really no point in even venturing into the Loop to visit Field 's/Macy's. We have a renovated Macy's right here in Portland (formerly Meier & Frank) significantly diminished in selling space and suffering the same fate as other Mac y's stores: poor quality merchandise, disinterested and insufficient salesforce, filthy bathrooms, and the elimination of the handsome old restaurant. Perhaps we can in terest the Saudis in purchasing the former Field's stores, since they know how to rejuvenate just about any commercial venture they touch and are helping to keep our eco nomy (such as it is) glued together. Wouldn't it be great if the Americans who've made out like bandits during the last seven years would actually look beyond short-ter m profit and invest in their own country.

Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  2:30 pm CT
Posted by: Lynn

Marshall Field's was the premier department store when I lived in Chicago. In Virginia, where I now live, I have sampled the two nearest Macy's stores (one was a takeov er of a local store. I have not wanted to return because they feel chaotic and depressing inside.

The downtown Marshall Field's always represented the best of Chicago. It had a wonderful place for once a year lunches with my favorite Aunt. The columns on the first floor were spectacular, the well-lighted sales floor was neat and counters sparkled. It had everything. Salespeople were proud to work there.

Such treasured landmarks are being destroyed by corporate greed that naturally has no appreciation for the rich sentiment locked inside those old facades and display win dows. It is heartening to see Chicagoans resist the destruction of their sense of community. Symbols like Marshall Field's give places a unique identity and make them se em like home when we, who live so far, come back to visit.


Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  1:09 pm CT
Posted by: Larry in PHL

I don't see any value in Bon Ton being aquired by Macy's. The company competes in the same markets now for the most part as Macy's does. And, while Bon Ton is not as nic e as Carson's or Bergner's, let's give them credit, they are keeping the name plates of so many Midwestern chains that I'd hate to see anyone acquire them. A new owner m ay just make them another national chain along with Messy's / Wal-Mart. I am hopeful that Carson's will still have more influence on Bon Ton and that all the stores will rise up to a smiliar level of service, quality, and cleanliness.

Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  12:33 pm CT
Posted by: Drew

In his quest to "re-invent" the department store, Terry Lunkhead has certainly stirred a great deal of interest in macy*mart. To show Terry that we fieldsfans aren't "haters," I've decided to graciously offer him suggestions to further "improve" profitability at macy*mart:

*Since Terry has eliminated food services at various stores, may I suggest that he equip these areas with vending machines. After all, some of the stores already have iPod vending machines--so why not stock some machines with such "exclusive" offerings as Martha Stewart Munchies, Charter Club Coffee, Style & Co soft drinks, Lundgren Lemonade.

*Because the macy*fication process was supposed to save money on producing shopping bags, why not follow the lead of Aldi and save-a-lot and CHARGE for shopping bags? Of course, customers could bring in their own shopping bags to save money or could select from boxes piled around the registers to carry their purchases.

*Using another example from Aldi, macy*mart's shopping buggies could have a locking device in which a customer places a quarter to release the buggy. After the customer returns the buggy to the corral, the quarter would be returned. Think how much money they could save on having employees looking for buggies!

*Taking an example from Ikea, macy*mart could sell only assemble-it-yourself furniture. All the furniture would be tagged and customers would pick up their merchandise and take it to their vehicle. Not only could Lunkhead eliminate warehouse space and employees, he could get rid of delivery people! Wall Street would love that!

*People have complained about dirty restrooms. That could be resolved by bringing back PAY TOILETS! The quarters charged for used of the facilities would help reimburse macy*mart for paper and cleaning supplies.

*Each store could have a department called "ALWAYS A DOLLAR" which would have a wide assortment of items that cost only one dollar each. The cashier in this department would only have to count the number of items; five items and the customer owes five dollars--plus tax! Of course, ALWAYS A DOLLAR


Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  12:09 pm CT
Posted by: Terrance

Macy's has got to go. This Christmas and last Christmas just was not the same. I was cleaning out a closet at home and I ran across the Fields shopping bags that I collected in the last season of their existance. I DO NOT LIKE MACY"S can't they get it through their heads. They do not wish to help you when you go in for anything the store is always empty how I know that is because I park in the lot to enter the mall. HERE IS THE KILLER THEY ARE ALWAYS TRYING TO SELL FRANGO MINTS !!! NEWS FLASH GET YOUR OWN CANDY !!!!

THEY TOOK OUT THE BIG AND TALL RALPH LAUREN SELECTIONS !!! MACY'S SUCK !!! THABKS FOR PUTTING TOGETHER THIS WEBSITE.


Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  11:52 am CT
Posted by: Claire Osada

To me, it's really interesting to see the decline of the food service that is offered since Field's became Macy's. I remember the last Christmas season that it was still Marshall Field's, my best friend, her mom, and myself all ate in the Marketplace at State St. and we had a really nice meal (cranberry turkey...good stuff!) and the staff was just pleasant and it was just a nice experience.

Now, the food service and the selection they have has changed so much. Most Marketplaces used to have hot food. Now they just have a lot of pasta salad, frozen yogurt, and pre-packaged convenience food. Also, the people who work there just don't seem to care about anything (their jobs, customers, serving, etc).


Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  9:09 am CT
Posted by: LK

Keep us the good work! And yes, Chicago shops at MARSHALL FIELDS!

Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  9:26 am CT
Posted by: John D.

Mall owners and managers customarily should want to present only the very best presentation of stores in their malls in order to obtain the best number of shoppers possible. What macy's has done to the Marshall Field's store at Oakbrook and Northbrook...just to name two...is abhorrent! The Marketplace food section and restaurants are just the latest act of macy's to bring the stores down to the lowest common denominator.

Here is the link to the management office at Oakbrook Center Mall in Oakbrook, Illinois for Field's Fans who regularly shopped there, for example, Gail.

http://www.oakbrookcenter.com/html/contactus.asp

All regional department store fans at U.S malls owned by General Growth Properties, Inc. of Chicago, may express your displeasure by going to:

http://www.ggp.com

-Then click on CHOOSE YOUR MALL and scroll down to find your favorite local mall.

-Then click on WEBSITE

-Then go all the way to the bottom of that mall's homepage to:

CONTACT US and the form should appear.

Just, by the slight chance General Growth's management is unaware of what the macy-ification of America has done, let's let them know. This is something each and every single fan of regional department stores can do from their own homes and offices!

P.S. While you are at it, you may want to contact the corporate offices of General Growth Properties in Chicago as well. Certainly the executives there should already realize the deterimental effects of the macy-ification in Chicago and the entire U.S.


Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  9:21 am CT
Posted by: Darrid

Amy Meadows is gone. She is the woman who oversaw the store windows on State and even the Walnut Room tree for 25 years was let go.

http://www.suntimes.com/business/739689,CST-NWS-MACYS14.article

The article details Ms. Meadows' accomplishments and loss of experienced Field's employees at the hands of Macy's layoffs. There is a quote from a representative of FieldsFansChicago.org.


Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  9:01 am CT
Posted by: denise rule

i agree with judy marth on 1/13. i like Carson's too. and i would HATE to see the 'm' store take them too.

Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  8:30 am CT
Posted by: Macys Vendor

You think macy's is bad to shop at? Try being a supplier!! They are the most arrogant creeps on earth to deal with. Marshall Fields employees were nice, personable and really cared for our company as a vendor. Macy's could care less. They prefer to buy cheap garbage from China, just like Wal-Mart and stiffed vendors who have supplied Marchall Fields faithfully for years and years. We are a Chicagoland area manufacturer and we are proud to say our products are available in Carson's - Boston Stores and NOT Macy's. Please shop where your local factories are represented!

Date: Mon, January 14, 2008  6:26 am CT
Posted by: Mitch

It seems as if Macy's is just like Terry Lundgren's appearance on "The Apprentice." Dull and lacking any knowledge, or something to offer.

I was outraged that Mr. Trump, in his introduction of Mr. Lundgren, stated, "When it comes to marketing, no one does it better." Even more telling was that Mr. Trump didn't mention the name "Macy's" at all. Of course the team that Mr. Lundgren was advising lost. There was in the middle of the program one of Macy's falling star-studded commercials that say nothing. In an instant the advert was over.

Remember that I've predicted mid-April for the huge closings.

Mitch


Date: Sun, January 13, 2008  10:56 pm CT
Posted by: drew

Regarding A. Perkins post,

As the Tribune reported last week, the likes of Macy's and other department stores are dumping their excess at TJ Maxx and similar stores.

Your description of the Milwaukee Mayfair was amazing; evidently there is not a bit of interest in the maintenance or upkeep of the store. BTW I was shopping at Big Lots yesterday. The store was clean, well-stocked, and orderly. The employees were friendly and helpful; I was just browsing in the hardware department and a young man stopped to ask if I was looking for anything in particular. Even a close-out store has more class than macy*mart!


Date: Sun, January 13, 2008  10:56 pm CT
Posted by: Darrid

I have to agree with layoffs at Macy's, however not the ones mentioned. They should start by laying off Terry Lundgren, Thomas Cody, Thomas Cole, Karen Hoguet, Mark Cosby, Janet Grove, Susan Kronick, Peter Sachse, David Scheiner and Dennis Broderick. This equates to their entire executive staff.

I would guess this would save at least $70MM.

So what happens now as more and more Midwesterners are lost? These people had been the backbone of Field's!


Date: Sun, January 13, 2008  10:27 pm CT
Posted by: George M.

Macy's was going to reinvent the department store.

Instead they have done their best to kill it. Instead of giving customers more reasons to shop there, there are fewer--eliminate restaurants, food, wine, children's shoes, lamps. And they wonder why customers are leaving in droves!

They barely advertise. There are few events to create excitement.

They supposedly are the experts--but even I know that you need to clean the floors and change the light bulbs--and give the customer what he or she wants!


Date: Sun, January 13, 2008  10:04 pm CT
Posted by: John

So I was in Nordstrom Rack on State Street, my new home away from home, to buy sheets, and saw an employee with a white Macy's coat on.....SHOPPING THERE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I asked him what he was doing there shopping in Men's Shoes and he told me that the shoe department in the State Street store was a joke and that the Rack always had the best selection to buy from.

When I asked him why he was wearing the Macy's coat, he told me with a wink that he wanted to protest in his own subtle way by showing that the employees are not even happy with the chain!!

That is the magic of that garbage dump!!!!!!!


Date: Sun, January 13, 2008  9:42 pm CT
Posted by: Da Burgh

Like we're surprised! Another retail analyst -- this one from Citi -- predicts that the Red Star will close more stores:

http://biz.yahoo.com/rb/080113/retail_nrf_closings.html?.v=3

Yes, the economy is tough and consumers are cutting back. Too bad the Red Star is overstocked with junk that people can do without!


Date: Sun, January 13, 2008  8:01 pm CT
Posted by: Regional Department Store Restaurant Lovers

Macy's closes the Oak Brook Bistro restaurant ????? How sad. But is anyone surprised ? How very very sad this situation is. Department store restaurants make each store special. Yet,when they are taken away, one just wants to shop elsewhere.

Yet,in the case of the loss of Marshall Field's one has to worry about the food and beverage departments.

Macy's clientele these days tends to be of the fast food sort. Let's just keep it at that.

COME ON FEDERATED DEPARTMENT STORE MANAGEMENT - BRING BACK MARSHALL FIELD'S AND RESTORE THE RESTAURANTS AND FULL-SERVICE EXPERIENCE.

We thought management said that they were committed to full-service restaurants for their guests !

Regional department stores make for something special, full-service restaurants and extraordinary services and all !

Thank you,

Regional Department Store Lovers


Date: Sun, January 13, 2008  7:13 pm CT
Posted by: Julie

Macy's discloses same store sales figures only for Macy's AND BLOOMINGDALES stores COMBINED. Yet, no layoffs at Bloomingdales. This makes me wonder if converted Marshall Field's stores are doing even worse now that they're Macy's than Macy's management is letting on.

How much longer must Chicago suffer the loss of our own unique and popular world-class destination department store? How much longer must we suffer the loss of tax revenues, jobs, and tourism appeal experienced since Field's prestigious stores were commandeered and turned into Macy's?

Chicago wants its Marshall FIeld's back!


Date: Sun, January 13, 2008  6:30 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

The fact that they have let go so many employees througout Macy's North (the former Marshall Field's) and not in other divisions suggests that sales must have continued to falter overall at former Field's stores during the holiday season just ending. The discontinuation and farming out of services shows that the conversion of Marshall Field's to Macy's is more than just a name change--indeed it is a change in the very way they do business.

Chicagoist has a new story on the layoffs. Please register and leave comments to help bring back Field's.

http://chicagoist.com/2008/01/13/macys_cuts_100.php

Date: Sun, January 13, 2008  3:36 pm CT
Posted by: Mike T

I saw the post about the food closings and visited Oakbrook Messy's yesterday...they haven't closed the Marketplace food area, but they've closed the sit down restaurant called the Bistro. From what the employees say, the restaurant has been a ghost town. From what I hard around the store, sounds like they took pretty good care of all of the fired employees. The Marketplace area seemed a little busy...though I didn't buy anything and won't, until they bring back our Field's!

Date: Sun, January 13, 2008  1:06 pm CT
Posted by: Gayle

Jimmy Gimbels, where were you!? I actually (against my husband's protests and my own better judgment)ventured into the Oak Brook store last night to look around. We were at the mall to purchase a new snow blower from Sears, and I decided to take a peek at the devastation.

Wow, was it sad. On the lower level, the Bistro Restaurant is now permanently closed. Marketplace was a shell of what it used to be, and the whole lower floor stunk of vinegar or something. Inexplicably, they had women's coats on the lower floor level next to housewares. Christmas decor was 90% off, as long as you didn't mind picking through the broken stuff scattered on the floor. The card department resembled a Factory Card Outlet, and they actually had folding tables set up with boxes (bins) of closeout stuff throughout the whole department. The hallway leading to the bathrooms was disgustingly filthy...hubby said he'd seen cleaner bathrooms in subways. Tables and tables of gift baskets at 70% off, but no one buying. Huge Martha Stewart section of overpriced stuff. At the candy counter, large sections of the refrigerated case were empty and dark, especially the Godiva stuff. Frangos lined up against one wall, apparently at full price. Merchandise spread noticeably thin.

On to the main level...tile floor is cracked all over, and looks trashed. Carpets dirty. In the shoe department, they had a sale going on, and there were shoes literally in piles all over the floor. It seems like the store is attracting a whole different clientele, one that definitely shows less pride in the surroundings. I'm not saying that Field's shoppers were perfect, but both the shoppers and the employees seemed to treat the merchandise with much more respect than I saw last night. Some nice stuff in fine jewelry and watches, but none of the employees approached us even though my husband lingered over the Rado watches for a long while. We never would buy there, of course, but we would have been hard pressed to find assistance if we did want to buy.

By that time I was so depressed and angry I couldn't go on up to the remaining two floors, so we left. Outside the store, all the lights were out in the display windows along the west side of the building, so I coudn't tell what (if anything) was in them. In The corner North window (facing the mall center fountain, a major focal point), the entire display window consisted of four mannequins on chrome stands wearing swimwear. That's it---no accessories, props, or anything. They didn't even bother to throw down sand or fabric or anything to cover the chrome bases...just set them right on the carpeting. There were cardboard stars or something on the background, but just four mannequins on those lovely chrome stands wearing bikinis. It went well with the winter lighting still up throughout the mall. It was beyond pathetic. I have to assume they've laid off their window dressers, because this was not a display window, but was something that a child could do, assuming they had someone tall enough to hang the cardboard stars.

On a brighter note, Sears (which I always hated)was clean, well-staffed, and helpful. We got a great deal on a snow blower, then spent the rest of the evening walking through the nice stores in Oak Brook. How I miss Field's!!!

gayle


Date: Sun, January 13, 2008  9:03 am CT
Posted by: drew

Sunday's Detroit Free Press included an article about the macy*mart cutbacks in the Detroit metro area. Here is a link to comments on the article:

http://forums.freep.com/viewtopic.php?t=73250

Looks like the "magic of macy*s" just isn't "exciting" enough to attract "re-educated" consumers.


Date: Sun, January 13, 2008  12:40 am CT
Posted by: AxN

Thank you, James, for clarifying for me what those little boxes are :)

I recieved an interesting topical remark today. I work in the shoe department at JC Penney, and this woman comes rushing in with her young son in quite a bit of a hurry to buy him some shoes. She ends purchasing four pairs.

As she's reaching for her credit card, she tells me "I work at Macy's, and we don't even carry children's shoes anymore."

I had to weigh what would be more frustrating: to have to ask where the children's shoes are, or to have to answer "we don't have any."


Date: Sat, January 12, 2008  10:47 pm CT
Posted by: Tim R

Wow, I'm so glad to find this web site! add me to the list of Marshall Field's supporters and now, a Macy's boycotter!

I was in the Macy's Castleton Square store in Indinapolis on Dec. 30 and was shocked. The store is an older one that was either a Lazarus or an Ayres before the "takeover." It was in horrible condition and the place looked like a tornado had hit almost every display of merchandise in the men's section. Stuff was strewn about everywhere.

I did buy 3 shirts only because I had a gift card, but I was not happy with their selection. The next day, I went to the Fort Wayne Glenbrook Square store to make a color exchange on one of the shirts.

While this store is in much better shape (thanks to Ayres' renovations of it several years ago) it too had many display tables just heaped with merchandise in disarray......and at only 11 AM in the morning. I guess taking care of merchandise isn't in the job descriptions of sales associates anymore? While making the exchange on the shirt, the "associate" insisted i re-swipe my Macy's card. I told her I had used a gift card and a master card when I paid for the shirts in Indianapolis. She insisted twice that I had used a Macy's charge card to which I finally replied curtly, "I don't even HAVE a Macy's charge card!" She finally backed down but then informed me I'd have to pay $4 more for the shirt in the exhange since my "new" shirt was a little more expensive. I had no problem with that....but after she rang things up, she said, "oh, it'll be $6.00 since I forgot to figure tax, etc." I was so bewildered and fed up that I didn't want to argue, so I paid the $6 and hurried out as fast as I could....not looking back!


Date: Sat, January 12, 2008  10:23 pm CT
Posted by: Judy Marth

Well, I happen to LIKE Carson's! And GOD FORBID that messy's should take over....YES OF COURSE I WANT FIELD'S BACK IN THE WORST WAY, but I certainly DON'T want messy's taking over Carson's!! I just want them OUT OF TOWN altogether!!! Junk is junk, whatever corner of State Street you're on...

Just my opinion, of course...

Judy


Date: Sat, January 12, 2008  4:38 pm CT
Posted by: A. Perkins

FIELD REPORT

Milwaukee Mayfair

The store formally known as Marshall Field's.

Boy what a mess. I did a walk through the store today. It was the first time I was in it in over 6 months.

The plastic "macy's way to shop!" name plate stickers on the doors are peeling off. Some have torn corners. I stopped counting brunt out lightbulbs at 20, this on the first floor alone. There was some traffic but nothing like the elbow to elbow traffic you used to see at Fields on Saturday at noon in the cosmetic counters. There were a few people walking around but no one seemed to be buying. There was luggage boxes on shelves. The boxes had pictures of the contents inside. They looked beaten up with broken corners and rips in them.

Lower level-More luggage. A pile of brown boxes five feet high by ten feet long. These boxes were beat up too, crushed and torn. Must have been a bumpy trip from China for them. Waterford crystal, shelves totally empty, not one piece. Cutlery, many displays were totally empty with no merchandise in them. There were a plenty of half empty shelves.

Womens' department. More half empty shelves and this wasn't for winter and clearance merchandise this was for new spring and summer products. Display of Valentine's panties, only 4 panties on the display shelf, it looked empty and bare. Racks of new spring clothing, less than half full.

If macy's had such a bad Christmas season and sales were down, why are the shelves, racks and displays so empty?? Don't you think the shelves and racks would be fuller??

IT LOOKS LIKE MACY'S HAS A REAL CASH FLOW PROBLEM. THEY CAN'T AFFORD NEW MERCHANDISE TO FILL THE SHELVES AND RACKS. THEY CAN'T EVEN PUT NEW NAME PLATES ON THEIR DOORS AND LEAVE PEELING AND TATTERED ONES THERE!

WAY TO FLOP!!!


Date: Sat, January 12, 2008  4:28 pm CT
Posted by: BFD

the people that work there are scared out of their wits. almost everything they do need a manager's approval. at field's you return anything with no static.B

Date: Sat, January 12, 2008  11:15 am CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels

Let's see 900 people cut due to store closuures (according to a December 28, 2007 press release). Now 271 more people in Macy's North. Golly 1,171 people in three weeks. That's the magic of Macy's for you!


Date: Sat, January 12, 2008  10:15 am CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Further evidence it's not just a name change from Field's to Macy's.

Macy's is firing 271 employees in its Macy's North division. These are at the Macy's North headquarters in Minneapolis (the former Dayton's/Hudson's/Field's HQ) and in food service. In the Chicago area this means the closure of what was basically Marketplace at Oak Brook, Aurora, Vernon Hills and even the new store at Bolingbrook. Wine will be dropped from all stores too, save for State Street.

It's important that letters to the editor are sent to newspapers. I don't believe the print edition of the Tribune has had a letter to the editor on this since early November at least. (There was at least one online letter from gle printed.) Topix forums are part of that but only the printed letters to the editor hit the mainstream paper audience and are preserved in archives. Below are the links to the articles. Please write. It's a way of rallying for Field's.

Tribune:
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-sat_macys_0112jan12,0,6047756.story?coll=chi_tab01_layout

Sun-Times (just an AP blurb):
http://www.suntimes.com/business/738400,macys011208.article

Crains Chicago Business (an expanded AP piece):
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/cgi-bin/news.pl?id=27736

These suggestions are made for responding to media articles or TV news segments:

* If submitting by US Mail, make a photocopy of your letter.
* If submitting by the internet, send your "Letter to the Editor" in a standard email message. Do not use web page forms or blog sites for the newspapers, unless you absolutely h ave to. If you submit via email, you have the opportunity to cc: or bcc: a copy to yourself--submitting via other methods on the internet means you probably won't have a dated co py of your response, if you get a copy at all. It is very important that you keep a copy for your records.
* The Letters to the Sun-Times should be sent to: letters@suntimes.com
* The Letters to the Tribune should be sent to: ctc-TribLetter@tribune.com
* The Letters Chicago Tribune Magazine should be sent to: TribMag@tribune.com
* The Letters to Crain's Chicago Business should be sent to: letters@chicagobusiness.com.
* Please remember to include a daytime phone number for verification purposes.
* Be certain to indicate in your letter that it is "for publication."
* Remember, items submitted to the "letters to the editor" section should not be cross-posted to other forums like the fieldsfanschicago.org blog. The publications request exclus ivity.
* Be succinct as possible. Longer items don't have as much of a chance of being published. While there are many facets to the loss of Field's, consider focusing on just one or t wo facets that will best help the larger cause.
* Even if your letter does not get published in print or web media, remember that the media takes note of the public's pulse. Every letter reminds editors and producers that th is is still indeed a very important issue.



Date: Sat, January 12, 2008  8:41 am CT
Posted by: A, Perkins

How much stock do you have to own so you can go to a share holder's meeting? How much stock do you have to own so you can vote?

It would be good to have a Field's delegation at macy's next annual meeting.

There was enough power and money in Chicago to stop macy's from taking over Field's but it didn't happen. (Thank you Mayor Daley.) However, there still is enough power and money in Chicago to take it back!

If Chicago can rise from the ashes of the Great Fire of 1871 which was the greatest disaster to hit any city since Pompeii, then Chicago can bring back Marshall Field's!


Date: Sat, January 12, 2008  7:59 am CT
Posted by: Lou P

I accidently found this web site. My wife was trying to find a Bra from Amelis's Collection she use to buy from Fields. As I started to read this I realised this was the first year that we did not have one christmas gift from Fields under the tree or exchanged. No one purchased even one gift from Macy's. How sad! Marshall Field's gifts were special. I don't know why but they were. The green box, the quality, the gold trimming. It even smelled better. Getting a gift from Fields made you feel special. Like the person giving it to you thought that highly of you to go to Fields. Their Marshall Fields line of products meant quality. I have many shirts, pants, etc that I take better care of because now I can't replace them. Wierd hu.

I saw this commercial where Burger King no longer has the Whopper. Chicago no longer has Marshall Fields. If MsDonalds purchased Burger King do you think they would get rid of the Whopper?

You guys at Macy's made a big mistake. And what's up with the RED Star? I have a Russian Army watch that has the same RED star in the middle of it.

Lou


Date: Sat, January 12, 2008  4:44 am CT
Posted by: flyboyhouston

I watched the Apprentice on thursday. I actually kinda like the show even though I really dislike Donald Trump. Anyways, Terry Lugnut was a judge on the show even though the challenge had nothing to do with Macy-mart, department stores, or anything retail related (actually dog adoption). He came accross as a total idiot on the show and contributed even less to the show than the Donald. He hardly said much and when he talked it wasn't interesting. I guess he is too worried about why the stock has plummeted so much and why his stores suck to really do anything on the show.

On a side note, at the end of the show when the girl that was fired was being interviewed in the moving taxi, you could see Lord & Taylor in the background. (I recognised the big wreath and the lighting configuration that it was L&T.) Ironic, considering it was once owned by Macy-Mart and now L&T is on its way up and Macy-mart is on its way down.

------------------------------------------

Also, all this talk about Bon-ton.... I've shopped there and while the store is better than Macy-mart, it still isn't that special. The mens department is similar to a JCPenny; however, the home department is better. The stores generally are in smaller towns, mostly in Pennsylvania and Maryland and are smaller in square footage. (Though Bon ton owns numerous stores still under their local nameplates.)

I recomend ANY store to be a replacement for a Fields/Macy-Mart... however, here are some better ones accross the country that offer good service and are mid to upscale in price range:

-Lord & Taylor (midwest & northeast);

-Nordstrom (nationwide)

-Dillards (southwest, central, southeast, and Ohio)

-Boscov's (northeast)

-Parisian (now only Detroit, MI)

-Carson's (midwest-better than rest of Bon Ton)

-Von Maur (midwest)

-Belk (southeast-note: some stores in the chain are better in quality than others)

-? maybe I misssed something...

..just not macy-mart and Wal-mart...another evil empire; but I;m sure wal-mart belongs on a whole other forum...


Date: Sat, January 12, 2008  12:30 am CT
Posted by: Field's Fan

In the past month or so, Bon-Ton has stated that it values its trade names and brands at a total of $63.5 million. In other words, that's the value it puts on the brands Carson's, Younker's, Bergner's, Herberger's, Boston Store, Elder-Beerman and Bon-Ton, as well as private labels -- I believe Consensus is one of them for clothing.

Now compare that the appraisal of Field's and its brands from Mayco's last company report: $419 MLLION!!!! And of course that is only maximized when State Street is run as Field's.

What an asset Macy's is squandering by mothballing Field's!


Date: Fri, January 11, 2008  8:44 pm CT
Posted by: drew

According to the link posted by Field's Fan:

The layoffs are in areas including alterations, foods, marketing, visual and finance. They are about 1.5 percent of the company's total workforce, a Macy's spokesperson said.

In other words, the Red Star Store will make it increasingly difficult for customers to have garments altered, to enjoy some food or beverage while shopping, to choose from an array of merchandise, to view creative displays or to have credit card problems solved.

The vicious cycle continues. Lunkhead STILL doesn't get it. His premise that "economies of scale" and "standardization" would lead to increased profits has proven to be a total debacle. Lunkhead's "lowest common denominator" strategy has failed, yet he still thinks the Red Star Store can be made profitable through even more cutbacks. As the Red Star cuts back services, there even are fewer reasons to shop there. Fewer customers mean lower sales volume leading to decreased stock value which results in more cutbacks. Way to flop!


Date: Fri, January 11, 2008  7:04 pm CT
Posted by: Steven

Carson's (and its affiliated stores like Younkers, etc.) would have been a much better fit for Macy's / Federated. They would have given Macy's access to the Midwest and not generated anywhere near the level of outright hostility towards the Macy's brand. Though quite honestly, as a semi-regular Carson's shopper I would abandon the store if it were rebranded as Macy's and I suspect many others would too.

I simply don't care for Macy's. Never have. Never will.


Date: Fri, January 11, 2008  6:31 pm CT
Posted by: Field's Fan

This article says it is 271 employees that are being laid off from both the Macy's North Headquarters and stores. Other facts include that it is about 1.5% of Macy's workforce.

http://wcco.com/local/macys.department.store.2.628058.html


Date: Fri, January 11, 2008  3:33 pm CT
Posted by: Darrid

This blog says that 400 are being let go from Macy's North in Minneapolis. I wonder if it is accurate. Sounds like it is.

http://abbey-roads.blogspot.com/2008/01/macys.html


Date: Fri, January 11, 2008  12:03 pm CT
Posted by: Bob

One thing is for sure: the 7.9% drop wasn't uniform all across the country. It's pretty likely that certain areas were down significantly while others weren't so bad or bad at all.

I'd bet that the former Marshall Field's stores were down more than the others. It wouldn't surprise me if all that hype from Guzetta and associates about looking for non-Field's customers didn't work out.

As was pointed out, If they brought back Field's this year, they would have all kinds of people surging to buy at Field's re-birth.


Date: Fri, January 11, 2008  11:09 am CT
Posted by: Richard in Houston

Daniel,

I applaud your determination to bring back Fields! Buying the stock is an awesome idea, especially as cheap as it remains. I plan on doing the same thing. Let's not only clamor to bring back Field's but many of the high quality regional stores they massacred. Like Rich's, Lazarus, Burdine's, Foley's, Bon Marche, Bullocks/Bullocks Wilshire and I Magnin. KEEP UP THE FIGHT!!! The Boycott is working!!! Not only in the windy city, but all over the country.


Date: Fri, January 11, 2008  9:31 am CT
Posted by: Claire Osada

Does anyone here ever get around to the Macy's in Lake Forest? Not to shop, of course...but you all know where this store is. This store could be going out of business any day. I guess the closing date is January 20th, but depending on how fast merchandise moves out, it could be gone sooner than that. Anyway, they created an interesting store closing window display: A dark green paper Marshall Field's shopping bag with a sign on each bag saying "Thanks" "For The" "Memories". One bag in each store window around the whole perimeter of the store.

Interesting. Knowing how Macy's operates, I was expecting people standing on street corners holding signs saying "Macy's Going Out of Business 50% off everything" or something of the like.

As much as I (as well as everyone else here) hate Macy's, I have to admit that this shopping bag display is somewhat nice.


Date: Thur, January 10, 2008  9:31 pm CT
Posted by: Daniel W. Harcourt II

It is encouraging, now that the holiday shopping season is over, to see that Macy's had absolutely horrible sales numbers to report. It is encouraging because now the Macy's exec's-including the Board of Directors-can prepare themselves for the most interesting shareholder meeting of their lives. I am very loyal and devoted to Marshall Fields and I committed to bringing Marshall FieldC-s back to Chicago. I am committed to the point where I have put my money where my mouth is and I have purchased stock in Macy's. (It's cheap enough now; why not pick up a few shares if it will help our cause?) This means I will be attending this year's Macy's Annual Shareholder meeting. I warned both Lundgren and the Board of Directors in a letter that was sent individually to each of them dated Thursday August 17, 2006,'Do not think that it is beyond loyal Marshall FieldC-s customers to mobilize Federated stockholders in order to save our beloved history! CHICAGO SHOPS AT MARSHALL FIELDS-NOT MACY'S!' Federated may now be Macy's, but it's still a publically traded company which anyone can buy into. Terry Lundgren's job is on about as much thin ice as what Charles PrinceC-s was at the end of his tenure as CEO of Citigroup or Ed ZanderC-s was toward the end of his tenure as CEO of Motorola. When push comes to shove, shareholders do not like to pay high salaries to CEO's who can't produce results-i.e.: profits to shareholders. Now is our time to act! I encourage all Marshall FieldC-s fans to purchase even if itC-s just a few shares of Macy's-obviously while the stock price is so low. Then start mobilizing by writing to Mr. Lundgren AND the Macy's Board of Director's as STOCKHOLDERS and, if possible, prepare to attend this yearC-s Macy's Annual Stockholders meeting to push for the return of Marshall Fields. Fields Fans, we have an incredible opportunity right now to bring back Marshall Field's. As stockholders, we will have immensely more power and influence to not only bring back Marshall Fields, but also to prevent Macy's from attempting to sell off our former Marshall FieldC-s stores to investors-unless it will mean the return of Marshall FieldC-s to Chicago. We are fighting a good fight and we are winning! Now letC-s go for the jugular and ensure that our history, our heritage, our Marshall Fields is returned to Chicago!

Daniel W. Harcourt II
Schaumburg, IL


Date: Thur, January 10, 2008  9:05 pm CT
Posted by: Alan

Clearly it was a bad holiday season for retailers, but it seems that higher-end stores like Nordstrom, Saks, and Neiman-Marcus fared better than lower-end stores. It seems that Macy's couldn't have chosen a worse time to take high-end stores like Field's and drag them further downmarket. Jim, your idea of Macy's buying Bon-Ton, spinning off the Field's decision to finance it, and converting the Bon-Ton stores to Macy's is an interesting idea. I'd say that the Macy's stores are much closer to the old Carson's than to Field's. There is even a newly-renovated building at 1 S. State that could serve as a decent flagship store.

My guess is that Macy's wouldn't want to give up Field's more valuable real estate, but desperate times bring desperate measures, right?


Date: Thur, January 10, 2008  8:04 pm CT
Posted by: Mike P

After reading the links to the Yahoo Money posts and comments, I thought I should look to one the sites I get on for consumer comments and complaints to companies (and one I've used successfully in the past) called Planetfeedback. Just out of curiousity I looked up Macy's and found over 300 letters (negative for the most part) that consumers wrote on various issues....here is one that stood out (employee issues):

http://tinyurl.com/2qyrrg

I think I am going to write these people and tell them about our website!

Mike P


Date: Thur, January 10, 2008  3:09 pm CT
Posted by: Field's Fan

I think it's interesting and a plus towards our cause when we consider today's sales news in the context of pointed and astute posts like the one Gail made. See below.

_______________________

Date: Sat, December 15, 2007 5:13 pm CT
Posted by: Gail

I didn't get a chance to look at Macy's press release about its November sales until today. The headline looked very impressive--"Same Store Sales up 13.4% in November." But when you read the press release, you find out that number is completely misleading. The comparison isn't between November 1-30, 2006 and November 1-30, 2007. Instead, it's apples and oranges--a comparson of sales between October 29-November 25, 2006 and November 4 - December 1, 2007. Well, duh! OF COURSE such a comparison will make Macy's look good in 2007. Stores always sell more in the last few days of November than they do in the last few days of October. MOUNTAINS MORE. I did a quick back of the envelope calculation and found that Macy's sales may well have been DOWN on the same store basis comparing November 1-30, 2006 and November 1-30, 2007. (Remember too that Marshall Field's was already gone in November, 2006, so if I'm right that same store sales are down, that's very, very bad news for Macy's. It means they're continuing to lose customers even after the exodus of Field's loyalists.)

Note that this artificial "calendar change" issue will work against Macy's in December (as they acknowledge in press release). Just as November's sales looked artificially high, December's will look artifically low. (I note Wall Street responded appropriately with a decline in Macy's stock on the day the press release came out, despite the happy-sounding headline.)


Date: Thur, January 10, 2008  3:04 pm CT
Posted by: Field's Fan

Dan Miller, the business editor of the Sun-Times business pages is resigning. Miller has been, of course, the editor of the many articles about Macy's and Field's such those by Sandra Guy.

Miller says the Business section will be reduced significantly leaving little to edit. Furthermore, he expects the Sun-Times will have new owners within the next few months.

http://chicagobusiness.com/cgi-bin/news.pl?id=27709

On a related note, it seems Macy's barely advertises in the Sun-Times these days.


Date: Thur, January 10, 2008  2:16 pm CT
Posted by: Drew

Lungreed's arrogance knows no limits. Perhaps he was trying to be amusing when he made these remarks about "markdown money," but I doubt that manufacturers were laughing:

http://garmentos.blogs.fortune.cnn.com/2008/01/10/same-store-sales-declines-pain-for-manufacturers/?source=yahoo_quote

Granted, the economy is doing poorly and the high cost of energy, food and housing is taking its toll on discretionary spending by the middle class. Yes, sales were weak across the entire department store and apparel sectors.

Since the Red Star Store has not developed a reputation for quality, value, style or service, chances are that declining sales and stock values will continue. The stock has lost--what--half of its value in one year? Despite the Wall Street "analysts" and "experts" who uphold Lungreed's mass-marketing approach, the consumers aren't buying. By cutting corners and cheapening operations Lungreed was able to use some "creative" accounting to make things look good to Wall Street, but customers were driven away by the overpriced poor quality goods, reduced service, and other cutbacks. As many have mentioned, there is NO compelling reason to shop at the Red Star Store. I look for more store closings in 2008 and for the planned new store openings to be "temporarily postponed."


Date: Thur, January 10, 2008  1:48 pm CT
Posted by: JBoy5990

I have always been a fan of Fields and will never shop at the horrid M store... I mean look at the marshall fields logo; the beautiful name in the green font is so majestic and formal, and then you have the dreaded M red star that looks like a communist symbol. Anway I will never forget fields and their beloved state street store that macys has taken hostage. i hope their stock keeps plummeting, Terry Lundgren is fired, and Macys closes as a result of their idiotic moves. I received my FOREVER MARSHALL FIELDS pins in the mail and will hand them out to everyone I know. I have faith that the store will come back some day in some shape or form if this keeps happening. EVERYONE LETS KEEP TRYING AND NEVER GIVE UP HOPE!!!!

Date: Thur, January 10, 2008  11:57 am CT
Posted by: A. Perkins

Didn't Lundgren and Co. use a calendar shift before to explain low sales sometime after Federated aquired MayCo?

All of this calendar shifting makes Terry Lundgren nothing less than...

SHIFTY!


Date: Thur, January 10, 2008  11:35 am CT
Posted by: Field's Fan

Same store sales in December at Macy's down 7.9% versus the 6.6% drop projected. Macy's also expects January same-store sales to drop 4%-6%.

Although most retailers experienced a drop and had a bad holiday shopping season, their stocks are now on the upswing since the sales stats were released. An exception is Macy's.

BonTon is up about 11% today. Perhaps that is in anticipation of a major change at Carson's parent?

Put the Macy's sales drop in the context that they offered so many holiday door busters and deep discounts. It then seems pretty much that Macy's is not attracting new loyal shoppers to replace the very loyal Field's shoppers. Instead it looks like they are just getting those who will take the deals and run. No way to build a new client base. No way to build loyalty.


Date: Thur, January 10, 2008  11:25 am CT
Posted by: Matt

The Tribune reported today the retail sales were weaker than expected for the Holiday Season. I blame Macy's. They have made the shopping experience for me, a chore. Thank you Macy's. Way to Flop!

Date: Thur, January 10, 2008  11:03 am CT
Posted by: Sharon R

Terry Lundgren as a guest judge on Trump's show tells me TL is really enamoured with himself. Hanging around with other big egos like Martha Stewart and Donald Trump only makes people want to shop at Macy's even less.

Date: Thur, January 10, 2008  9:12 am CT
Posted by: Brian A.

I've seen a lot less of those delivery trucks around town. You know the ones....they are the green Marshall Field's trucks with the white Macy's sign on some kind of canvas stretched across the sides.

Only thing is the last two I have seen are just plain green. The Macy's signs are gone. But from the Macy's shirt on the driver, I could tell these were still Macy's deliveries being made.

Maybe the private delivery service that has taken over the trucks for Macy's has decided that advertising for Macy's on their trucks is bad for them(?).


Date: Thur, January 10, 2008  7:58 am CT
Posted by: Michael Trenteseau

http://www.zinio.com/express2?issn=0007-7135CHI

I got published! Hooray!

It's a much shorter version of the letter I wrote, but it's fairly effective.

M stock now has a market cap of less than they paid for May Company. Bon Ton's market cap is now just over $100 million, which is one-tenth what they paid for the Saks Group Northern Department Stores Division.

Anyone want to chip in and buy them? a few well-funded individuals could take the company private...


Date: Thur, January 10, 2008  7:37 am CT
Posted by: Jack K

The post regarding a woman trying to purchase a "display" item brought back a Marshall Fields memory. I love to cook, and love fresh ground pepper. A number of years ago, there was a three foot tall pepper grinder in the housewares section at State Street. It was not for sale, but it took only a few minutes for the inquiry to be made, a manager to approve and price the item that now sits in my kitchen. (ahh the days before SKU's --- today if it isn't in the computer, it doesn't exist, even if it is sitting right there in front of you!!!)

With regard to Northbrook Court, it was always my opinion that Sears and Pennys were trying to tap into the more affluent north shore market, but it was not to be. Today of course it is a very upscale mall, with only Red Star to drag things down <you ought to hear the comments from sales people in stores at that end of the mall, not happy about how the foot traffic is lousy>

Happy New Year to all. Keep up the good work.

JACK


Date: Thur, January 10, 2008  2:06 am CT
Posted by: A. Perkins

Right now, thankfully, macy's has only one store in Milwaukee.

If macy's bought Carsons/Boston Store that would mean that Milwaukee would have 6 macy's stores! God forbid it!

However anything to bring back Marshall Field's in its former glory would be worth it, even more...(gulp)...macy's. :-(


Date: Wed, January 9, 2008  11:23 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Tomorrow is the day many retailers release their December sales figures. I look forward to your commentary and analysis of Macy's figures.

I can't help but think how much better they would have been if they had brought back Marshall Field's for the 2007 Holiday Season. It would have been a real buzz.

As Gayle S has noted, Macy's stock is down from a high earlier in 2007 of roughly $46 a share to somewhere in the low $20s. Other retailers are also being hit with drops in prices--some less and some more than Macy's. Of special note is Bon-Ton, parent of Carson's. Its top stock price in 2007 was in the mid $50s and now it is roughly 10% of that. There have been rumors that Bon-Ton will go Chapter 11--but time will tell. A personal view from my holiday shopping experiences that I've discussed in some other forums, Carson's of today is not too different from the Macy's I've seen on the east coast. Given the clientele and what Carson's stores have become, would it make sense for Macy's to consider acquiring today's Carson's stores and spin off former Field's stores as Field's? How would you feel about that? Field's would have to come back. What are your thoughts?

Looking forward to your insights and comments on the sales reports tomorrow.


Date: Wed, January 9, 2008  9:54 pm CT
Posted by: Jeff

Check this site out for great vintage shots and history of Marshall Fields and other vintage department stores (including the M store before it was evil)

http://www.pdxhistory.com/html/marshall_fields.html

Date: Wed, January 9, 2008  9:40 pm CT
Posted by: Jon C.

Here is a link to a brief history of Northbrook Court shopping center on Chicago's North Shore.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Northbrook_Court

Several Field's Fans have had comments and questions on Northbrook Court since this blogsite began a couple of years ago. The history includes the succession of stores from its opening in 1976 until now. You recent residents of Chicago should find it interesting that Northbrook's former stores include Sears, I. Magnin, JCPenney. Certainly a shining highlight was when Marshall Field's opened in 1995 with its inspired architectural design on the site of the demolished JCPenney store.


Date: Wed, January 9, 2008  6:21 pm CT
Posted by: S.B.

I post on the sites below and it results in some good conversation/dialog between the other users. The nice thing about posting on a shopping site is that the post lives forever!

Macy's Stock
http://messages.finance.yahoo.com/mb/M

Shoppers
http://www.yelp.com/chicago

Directory/YellowPages users
http://local.yahoo.com/results?p=macy%27s&csz=Chicago%2C+IL


Date: Wed, January 9, 2008  4:44 pm CT
Posted by: Gayle

Hi all,

The company I work for was recently listed as one of Forbes' 400 Best Companies. As I was perusing the list, I realized you could sort by industry, so I pulled up all retail companies for a quick down-and-dirty comparison. Only two department stores made the cut--Kohl's and Target. (Three if you want to count Tiffany's as a department store). Oddly enough, Macy's wasn't on the list. Hmm. I checked their stock, and it's down around $22 now....I have read several stock analysts say it will drop to $16-$18.

If it continues to drop at this rate, we Field's fans will be able to pool our coffee money and buy them out ourselves soon! ;-)

gayle


Date: Tues, January 8, 2008  10:33 pm CT
Posted by: Mike P

You know its funny...I'm reading all these comments about the M-Store and I can relate to the experiences people have had this holiday season.

First let me preface this by saying I've been in Customer Service for many years....I even worked as a Sales Clerk at Fields in 2001 for the holidays....it was an interesting experience to say the least, but I would have to say even during that time the degree of customer service and professionalism at the store was a lot higher than it is today with the M-stores....

Anyway I've been at the State Street store a couple of times over the holidays. The day after Christmas my mom got tickets for my siblings and I to see "Christmas Carol" at the Goodman and found we had some time before the show began. Since my mom and I both like the Frangos, we decided to go to the M-Store to see what they had and perhaps pick up a box....there was some activity going on but nothing like the days of Fields when the place would be packed with after Christmas shoppers. Anyway, I was going to make my purchase when it seemed to take a long time for someone to ring me up. The person or two in front of me was looking for a price on some discounted item and it took three people to figure out the piece was not for sale. If this were any other store, the clerks at the other registers would think of easing the lines by offering people to come to their stations but no....I had to wait until the dispute was settled and even then the lady was not happy she could not get that piece.

I went a few days later to State Street when my aunt came to town....I wanted to show her the abysmal tree in the Walnut Room...now she did not care for it at all and we kept commenting on how it looked more like something for the spring instead of Christmas. Some people were joking after my aunt asked if Martha came to the lighting (which she did) and they said something to the effect of "why did they let her out of jail" and "she should not have come"....now as I recall, Christopher Radtko has made several appearances at State Street in the past....and I know he hasn't gotten any good press in the past...but at least his creations are more tasteful and nice to look at...not like MS's creations!!!

Finally.....70% of Frangos and other Christmas stuff? I know that in the Tree Shop they did deep discounts in the past....but I've never seen Frangos ever at 70% off....and the amount of inventory they had left...sheesh....

Heres to hoping Fields comes back to the quality and service they once stood for...its sad to see the M-store messing things up!

One more thing....if you do have a M-card, be sure to pay your bill on time....they love to tack on service fees even if its a day late ;( I'm writing a letter of complaint with my current payment telling them I don't think its fair they tack on a big fee with such a small balance.....

Its funny but I've heard more people at the M-store complain about cleanups and related work chatter. It seems they are always concerned about other matters instead of selling and making the customer happy....


Date: Tues, January 8, 2008  7:48 pm CT
Posted by: Ron

In response to A. Perkins

Why do the midwestern stores of the Bon-Ton group have much higher sales to stores named The Bon-Ton?

Most Bon-Ton stores are in secondary markets. These stores are SIGNIFICANTLY smaller than stores of Carson's, Boston Store, Younker's and the other. With the exception of a few in central Pennsylvania and the Buffalo area, nearly all the stores have only one floor. Some of the stores are about the same size as a large supermarket.

The Bon-Ton does not operate in the Philadelphia, Pittsburgh or Baltimore markets, just on the fringes.


Date: Tues, January 8, 2008  10:31 am CT
Posted by: Robert Garrett

Hello everyone, please see below my most recent contacts to Macy's

Dear Macy's:

I know your stock has been tanking and you cannot figure out why business is failing. Your CEO has blamed everything from the weather to gas prices. I know why you cannot do business in the mid-west and I am willing to give you my secret for free!

Chicago for 150 years has had Marshall FieldC-s; you cannot replace a tradition in Chicago with a New York tradition. We are a proud people here in the mid-west and we do not need other traditions, we like what we have! I purchased 100% of all of my clothing from FieldC-s they had high quality goods in my sizes, itC-s the only place I could always find XLT sizes and the service was top notch.

If you would like your business to be successful you need to BRING BACK Fields, in all of its glory. Including quality products and quality people. I know you have a tough road ahead of you in the mid-west, but the tough road is the only one that will allow you to succeed.

If you need any other tips on how to save your business please contact me at the information below.

Best Regards,

Robert Garrett


Date: Mon, January 7, 2008  8:38 pm CT
Posted by: Zelda

I recently made contact with a childhood friend who moved to California in the 8th grade. After she learned my married name from classmates.com, she googled me and found an article about my protesting the Macy's takeover of our beloved Marshall Field's. She was thrilled to learn I was speaking out on this, because even though she'd left Chicago over 20 years ago, she dearly loved Marshall Field's and was so saddened by our common loss. Which only goes to show that Gail is right! People who loved Marshall Field's are all over the country. And when they visit Chicago, they don't want to go to Macy's. Macy's sales NATION WIDE are way down.

Date: Mon, January 7, 2008  6:51 pm CT
Posted by: A. Perkins

Someone below mentioned Younkers stores. They are mostly in Wisconsin, Iowa and Michigan AND they are part of the CARSON's group of Bon-Ton.

So Chicagoians, if you are out of town shop at these stores which are a part of Bon-Ton's Carson division;

Boston Store, Younkers, Elder-Beerman, Herbergers, Bergners

These stores cover macy's North, the former Marshall Field's market.

I really enjoyed shopping at Younkers when I lived in Green Bay, Wisconsin. I bought a lot of fine jewlery there and found the service to be very good and much better than the current occupants of the Field's stores.

And as stated before, the Carson's division of Bon-Ton out performs the rest of their sales consistantly since the macy's take over. On many instances the Carson division has had sales twice that of the rest of Bon-Ton.

I wonder why the Carson division has such better sales figures?


Date: Mon, January 7, 2008  5:54 pm CT
Posted by: richard in houston

I purchased some lambskin cashmere lined leather gloves from Lord & Taylor for my wife for Christmas. Unfortunately, Lord & Taylor pulled out of Houston after being here for almost 40 years. I was so impressed when the package arrived. The gift wrap was awesome and their quality of gift boxes are also admirable. My wife was so excited to open the box. She knew if it was Lord & Taylor it was something special. (Just like something from Field's or Foley's used to be). Kudos to Lord & Taylor and their new owners for realizing the equity in a fine, established brand name.

Date: Mon, January 7, 2008  3:52 pm CT
Posted by: Maura

Hello,

Well back to work after a few weeks of vacation. My co-workers know how I feel about Field's. I have a boycott Macy's on my office door and have handed out numerous pins to co-workers who thought them neat.

What I found funny is many of them could not wait to report bad Macy experiences to me. It is sort of cute but the stories are pretty appalling. What saddens me is the stories are occurring in our beloved Marshall Field's buildings. Anyway, for your amusement and horror here they are.

The first "it's all about the product". A young cousin of a co-worker just got a job at a Illinois Macy location. He has to wear black pants and a red knit shirt. Well he told me laughing as he did that the quality of the Macy product is so poor that all the employees recommended that his cousin go to Sears to buy his "uniform". Further, he said that last year he did some shopping at Macy's for Christmas and did not see much difference in the quality or brands. This year when he was back he found nothing to purchase and realized that last year he had purchased old Field's products which Macy's hadn't disposed of yet. He said he was shocked at the difference in quality and has no plans to return to shop.

The second "it's all about the service.": Another co-worker's wife and daughter (who happens to work at Nordstom) went into Macy's to check out the deals. So they loaded up on clothes and went into the dressing room. The dressing room was so dirty and smelled so foul she immediatley left to inform the sales clerk. The clerk told her she was too busy to attend to it. The daughter looked around and did not see the "busy activity" that was going to prevent the clerk from finding her a decent dressing room in order to try the items on. So she laid the items at the sales counter and said well I guess I don't need to try these on. She was going to find customer service and complain and on her way saw a coat that she liked. Unfortunately they did not have her size so she went up to a sales clerk to ask if they did have any in her size. The clerk said no we don't. So the daughter asked the clerk if she could see if there were any coats in her size at other Macy's stores. A very common request that a good sales clerk would have offered to do without being asked. But it gets worse! The sales clerk hands her a list of phone numbers for other stores and said to the daughter you can call the stores. The daughter was incensed and asked the clerk if she really expected her to do the calling. The clerk said she was too busy and that yes she would have to do the calling. The daughter was flabbergasted and could not believe the response. So on her way to customer service to now complain about two things she stopped another clerk. She just could not believe what the first coat clerk had told her. The second clerk confirmed that yes she had been handed the list of stores and if she wanted to see if the coat was available in her size she would have to do the calling. She looked around and the store was near empty. The funniest part is she did not even go to customer service because she was so incensed by the treatment she received that she has vowed never to shop there.

Anyway, the stories brought a chuckle to my day and I hope they brighten yours. Really Macy's can't survive with such poor quality goods and service. At the beginning of this I thought if they would just keep the name. Now it warms my heart that these travesties are not being committed under the Marshall Field's name.

Here's to wishing the demise of Macy's in 2008!


Date: Mon, January 7, 2008  11:15 am CT
Posted by: Christopher S

Dear fellow Field's fans:

Unlike past years, my family did not travel to Chicago where Field's was a family tradition. Viva la boycott!

Instead, we traveled to Cincinnati home of the new MACY'S. Out of curiosity, we visited two stores (not as a destination, but as a way to pass through to other stores in malls). Wow! These stores are a mess, and they make any of their competitors look like upscale department stores. There are black marks on walls everywhere, and large carts of clothes piled pele-mele in every aisle (hard to maneuver those classy shopping carts).

Customer service is above all, abysmal. I was briefly enticed to purchase Ralph Lauren towels and a bath mat (advertised to be on sale). In both stores, however, there were no bath mats, and no apparent place for them on any of the shelves. Why do they advertise something to be on sale if they do not even intend to carry it?!! Also, I had to search for a sales representative to help me find the merchandise. In one case, the woman behind the counter told me that she does not normally work in the home goods department, so she had no idea. What?!! I told her sarcastically that I did not work for Macy's either, so I guess we are both in the dark.

The other experience was worse. I asked for the sales price of some Frango's (in this market they do not mention Marshall Field's history any where on the box). All price scanners were broken, and the woman behind the counter scanned the item at the same time a colleague approached her to discuss work hours or some other important information (read sarcasm). After five minutes of waiting, I left the store.

Marshall Field's made the customer the focus of the shopping experience. Clearly, Macy's does not (and will never) understand that concept.

Regards,

Christopher


Date: Mon, January 7, 2008  11:15 am CT
Posted by: Department Store Lovers

Apparently Macy's is testing the co-branding waters in an unusual sort of way that attempts to make it look as if they didn't make a mistake (when of course they did).

The Meier & Frank flagship in Portland was converted to Macy's back on 9/9/2006. It also underwent a major remodeling with even a hotel added.

Now in what seems to be a partial concession to Portland, the entire block on which the Meier & Frank flagship is located is being rechristened "Meier & Frank Square" and the Macy's is being renamed, "Macy's at Meier & Frank Square". A

Of course, such a similar scenario would not work here in Chicago at 111 N State Street. Meier and Frank was closer to Macy's than it was to Field's. What's more, at this point, after all of Macy's disrespectful actions towards Chicago shoppers' requests and Macy's disrespect towards Chicago history and pride, "Macy's at Marshall Field's on State" would not be acceptable. "Marshall Field's by Macy's" or "Marshall Field's- A Macy's Store" would be like "BMW by Chevy" or "Audi-A GM Brand".

Still it is interesting. Perhaps it indicates they are having to faceup to what a big mistake they made on 9/9/2006. The biggest mistake Terry Lundgren made was getting rid of Marshall Field's and turning it into Macy's. It about more than a name.

Below is a link to a discussion on this. It might work in Portland but it sure wouldn't work here in Chicago. We will only accept Marshall Field's in quality and service as well as full name.

Here is a link to the conversation.

http://forum.skyscraperpage.com/showthread.php?t=72867&page=4

Warm Regards.


Date: Mon, January 7, 2008  12:12 am CT
Posted by: Gail

Memo to Macy's CEO Terry Lundgren:

If you're thinking that Midwesterners are finally getting over the loss of Marshall Field's, you need to think again. I've spent all evening filling requests for "Forever Marshall Field's" pins. The demand is not letting up at all. At this point, I've completely lost count of the number of lapel stickers, bumper stickers and pins that I've distributed over the last year or so, but I believe that I'm closing in on 100,000.

By the way, quite a few of those who request pins live or go to school in other parts of the country. Are your sales way down in Florida? Massachusetts? Arizona? California? Texas? Yes, I thought they might be. Thank a Field's Fan. We're everywhere.


Date: Sun, January 6, 2008  11:55 am CT
Posted by: Eric B

Here are brief excerpts from an excellent letter posted in "Voice of the People" in the Sunday Chicago Tribune. The entire letter may be viewed at:

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/chi-0106letters1_briefsjan06,0,4410790.story

"My resolution for 2008 is to be a more assertive consumer:

- I will no longer shop at the major department store that found a reason not to reimburse me when I returned an item that broke the day I bought it, even though I still had the receipt and packaging.

...This leaves me with one question: Why do American businesses wonder why consumer spending is down?"

The writer did not mention the name of the department store, but it's fun to guess.


Date: Sun, January 6, 2008  10:14 am CT
Posted by: PatC

I caught a New Burger King Commercial the other day .

You know, the "HAVE IT YOUR WAY" fast food Company !

The commercial show's people going thru the Drive-Up window, and at the inside counter, placing their order's for a Whooper, only to be told "BURGER KING NO LONGER SERVE'S THE WHOOPER" anymore.

The respones were priceless :

"What!! ARE YOU KIDDING ?"

"No Whooper anymore ?? Then I Won't be Back !"

"I guess I'll have to Boycott Burger King !"

Now the truth of the commercial, shows how much people still Love the Whooper Burger after all these 30 years, and if Burger King, DID stop serving the Whooper, people will STOP Coming to the restaurants!

Oh YES Macy's, the Consumer CAN MAKE A DIFFERNCE if you

Tick-Them-Off, especially when you take away the Brand they LOVE !

A SURE WAY TO FLOP !

PS .. Burger King is NOT deleting the Whooper


Date: Sat, January 5, 2008  9:45 pm CT
Posted by: Carolyn R

I wrote a few months back about my precious childhood memories of Field's at Christmas. Reading the news about lower sales at Macy's recently prompted me to check into your site again. Never give up, Marshall Field must be returned to Chicagoland. I live in Ohio,but no matter where you live if you remember Field's store, you will never shop in a Macy's anyplace. It is gratifying to see that people still remember and still care about the store that was taken away from them.

Date: Sat, January 5, 2008  9:15 pm CT
Posted by: James in MInneapolis

Hi All---

This afternoon while I was Downtown to go to the gym, I was passing through City Center and decided to stop into the new Brooks Brothers. You may recall from my previous posts that Brooks has returned to Downtown Minneapolis after closing about 14 years ago and moving out to the heinous Mall of America. They opened this Fall again Downtown, in addition to retaining their store at MOA, noting that there is now a great need for a retailer devoted to quality & service on Nicollet Mall------yea!!! Somebody gets it.

I have not been in Brooks for about 6 weeks. As usual, today's visit was real class the whole way. The young guy who works there that I have described before with whom I am becoming somewhat friendly was on me in about 2 minutes, even though he had another customer, greeting me, quickly telling me all about the semi-annual clearance, letting me know he was helping another guy rt now but he would be available for me shortly, etc. Meanwhile, I browsed. During that time I noticed they had moved all the stock around & freshened things up & the stock has turned over already----good for them. I was approached gently by a guy I recognized from Men's Suits at Field's to make sure someone was helping me. This 2nd guy was always a class act as well. A short while later a 3rd guy came over to see if I needed assistance & I recognized him from Men's Shoes at Field's. He was a very good sales guy & we chatted at length about him jumping ship----he just made the jump over to Brooks.

He had lots to say about his former employer and the new regime.However, he is the ultimate professional and said things in ways that framed Field's in good light and Brooks in good light and simply left Macy's in the dark. He did tell me that the volume at Brooks is building nicely, not spectacularly, but steadily and management seems very pleased with the steadiness of it given the tuff retail climate in Minneapolis. Apparently, the new Downtown Brooks has siphoned off some of their existing business from MOA, but that's to be expected I think. When the business core customer is Downtown, these folks will patronize their close store instead of going all the way out to MOA. And better to compete with yourself than against somebody else, no?

Regards.


Date: Sat, January 5, 2008  7:49 pm CT
Posted by: Richard in Houston

It is interesting to note that Macy's is closing the Sharpstown store in Houston. It was Foley's first branch store (at 308,000 square feet) and opened in 1961. Why was Foley's able to keep this store open since 1961 without any cutbacks in service or merchandise but Macy's cannot? Simple. Macy's is not Foley's, or Marshall Fields, or L.S. Ayres, Bullocks, Rich's, Burdines or the host of other stores it destroyed. I suspect a mass amount of store closures will ensue in the next quarter. I visited a former Foley's in The Woodlands mall last night. Of course, I was able to park right at the front door (this never happened when it was Foley's). They are copying the old Foley's "Red Apple Sale" as their Macy's One Day Sale. It is called the Macy's Red Apple One Day Sale now.

Clearances everywhere. Racks of it. I read an article previously how Federated/Macy's had begun a lingerie line called I Magnin to keep someone else from using the name. There were 2 salespeople standing around. I asked them where the line was (not that I would ever buy anything at Macy's- I just wanted to see if they used the same old I Magnin Logo) Neither knew what I was talking about nor had they ever even heard of I Magnin. They asked several other employees. Again, no one knew what I was talking about.

The Club Room sweaters were so cheap! You could see your hand through the fabric. Of course, they are 50% off. The old RH Macy Club Room merchandise back in the 1980s was very high quality. This is so cheap. It is like KMart merchandise.

I don't see how Macy's can continue with all these stores with the dismal sales and plummeting stock. Again, I expect massive closures within 6 months.


Date: Sat, January 5, 2008  6:54 pm CT
Posted by: drew

I stopped at a macy*mart in that was formerly a Kaufmann's in a growing suburban area near Pittsburgh.

The parking lots near macy*mart were rather empty for a Friday evening, although there were plenty of cars around the other anchors. The first thing I noticed were the Holiday Calendars for December posted on the doors. Guess the management hadn't noticed that December had been over for four days. As I entered the store, the PA system was blaring 1960s vocal tunes ("Baby, I'm Yours"); no doubt the loud music was part of Lunkhead's strategy to make macy*mart seem cool to the younger crowd. Yeah, the "golden oldies"--that's the ticket.

The housewares selection gets smaller and smaller as even less merchandise is spread further and further apart. The china and crystal department didn't have much variety, and the table linen department consisted of an empty double-sided display unit. There were some assorted Christmas table linens on a clearance table. The bedding was very bland and nondescript. As I checked out some of the towels displayed along the aisle, another shopped commented "These feel like sandpaper. Can you imagine trying to dry yourself with something like this?" I just shook my head and replied "And can you believe the prices?"

Members of this blog will be "excited" to know that macy*mart is again carrying "Field Gear." This name is attached to boxes of cheaply made binoculars, thermometers, and related outdoor-type items--all at 75% off! Even at that discount, the merchandise was stacked high. Of course, Field Gear is also on a limited basis as outdoor menswear.

The clothing departments were full of racks of winter clothing marked 50%, 60%, 75% off the lowest ticket price. The few shoppers were looking, but there didn't seem to be many buyers. Perhaps the weather wasn't cold enough for people to buy winter clothing yet.

The mall itself was rather busy and people were carrying shopping bags, just not many Red Star bags. No, let me correct that. On my way OUT of macy*mart, there were several people carrying Red Star bags IN to the store, probably to return merchandise.


Date: Sat, January 5, 2008  5:10 pm CT
Posted by: SB

After the conversion I decided to never purchase anything from Macy's or Bloomingdale's. A letter, with a cut up credit card, was sent to T. Lundgren (who never sent me a response by-the-way) immediately after the news - even before 9/9/06. Since the conversion I have only entered one Federated store... that is Macy's in New York. I had to see for myself why on earth people thought this store was "exciting." It wasn't. Obviously I didn't buy anything.

As I continue to boycott and ask other to so as well... I decided that I would enter Macy's - but only the stores that are closing to say a joyful goodbye and good riddance! Today I went to Lake Forest. I had never been to the store and standing in front of it I contemplated if I should go in. I can't stand Macy's, why would I go in? I decided that seeing the historical significance of the building and trying to image that an amazing store was once there was worth more to my personal experience than Macy's. I entered my first Macy's since the conversion. The store was unique and had the feeling of being an old mansion that got converted (which I'm guessing was the case). I walked up and down making sure I saw every piece of it. I took a picture outside. It was nice to see a part of history and sad to see it go. Macy's had no place squatting in this location (or any other for that matter). I hope to soon go to Northbrook Court or Vernon Hills and say goodbye to those stores too until finally all the Macy's in Chicago are closed forever!

SB

I also noticed that Frangos and many other items were discounted up to 70% and there were tons of them. Boxes and boxes of them. Ornaments, clothing, etc. all unsold - even at 70% off. This never would have been the case at Marshall Field's!


Date: Sat, January 5, 2008  4:30 pm CT
Posted by: PaulF

I think these quotes from the Schaeffers report on Dec 31, 2007 (See post from Thursday) are so significant that they demand a full quotation:

"Macy's shareholders are in need of a post-Christmas miracle. Since the May 2005 merger of May Department Stores and Federated Department Stores, the Macy's corporation has struggled, fundamentally speaking. This trend is particularly palpable in the Midwest, where Marshall Field's loyalists are unwilling to support the new brand. According to Thomson Financial, Macy's 3-year earnings per share have actually dropped 3.79%, compared to growth of 9.01% in its industry and 8.45% in the S&P 500 Index (SPX).

While the shares are modestly higher today, Macy's has surrendered roughly 45% of its value since March, and has spiraled lower beneath various layers of former technical support. In July, the stock finished a month below its 10-month and 20-month trendlines for the first time in nearly 3 years; these moving averages are now on the verge of a bearish crossover. The stock has subsequently breached its 80-month trendline and has now edged south of its 160-month moving average. Finally, M didn't even hesitate to break the 29.23 level, marking the site of a 50% retracement between its February 2003 low of 11.76 and its March 2007 peak of 46.70."


Date: Sat, January 5, 2008  2:21 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

To be sure, retail is having a hard time these days. More than a few chains have had their 52-week stock price lows yesterday. Carson's Chicago and Milwaukee stores apparently are the only thing keeping Bon-Ton afloat, with over 80% of its price from earlier this year gone.

Regardless, I firmly believe that Macy's would have had a huge bounce this most recent holiday season if Field's had returned in quality and service as well as name. Shoppers would have flocked and purchased to celebrate its return.

Field's is an opportunity and asset squandered by Macy's. Surely Macy's profits and stock would have been significantly higher had Field's returned this most recent holiday season.


Date: Sat, January 5, 2008  1:23 pm CT
Posted by: Field's Supporter

Because it seems a Macy's supporter is removing my pro-Field's comments at a "Topix" forum on Field's and Macy's, my response also appears here in the event the same thing reoccurs:

____________________________

Well, regardless of the fact that some sort of moderator (at the Topix forum) has removed some comments since last I visited, I will respond to DaveB, who works construction for Macy's and who will, of course, defend Macy's in order to keep his job and who will also perform as a rallying spokesperson for Macy's perhaps for the purpose of earning points to rise in rank with corporate. Yes, Dave, it's understandable why Macy's would close 9 underperforming stores. The fact is, that most of the Macy's stores are underperforming - not because of their location, but because Macy's if failing as a corporation. Here in rand Rapids (Grandville, specifically) Macy's is located in the newest and most vibrant mall in Grand Rapids: Rivertown Crossings. While foot traffic was brisk, upbeat and lively in the rest of the mall, our observational trip into Macy's showed a dead scene. It was almost eerie. My husband and I also made observational trips into JCPenney, Younkers, Sears and Kohl's - the four other anchors and those stores who would be Macy's most close competitors. Our observation was this:

Macy's - eerily empty except for sparse employees who didn't even bother to greet us. It was as if they wondered what they were doing there and what could they do about it? Even fewer customers. The merchandise selection was very austere - lots of black, red and tan.

Sears - not real busy but the merchandise selection was much higher quality and very well displayed. Action at each register, if only one or two customers at each.

Kohl's, JCPenney, and Younkers - active foot traffic and lines at every register. Merchandise of much higher quality and very well displayed. In these three stores, we found ourselves having to say "Excuse me" in order to get through aisles without rolling people over like bowling pins.

So I believe Macy's will be closing even more stores, all underperforming - but it won't be because the locations of the stores are dying locations. It will be because all signs point to the reality that Macy's has been dying and continues to. It's only natural that they would start with the worst of the underperformers, but the fact is that the vast majority of the stores are underperformin g - because they are Macy's. I wonder if the moderator will dump this comment as well. In anticipation of that possibility, I will copy and paste this comment and send it on to fieldsfanschicago.org.


Date: Sat, January 5, 2008  11:06 am CT
Posted by: Jack K

Was in Northbrook Court last night. Most stores were quiet, although parking around Neiman Marcus was tight. Apple Store was the busiest I saw. Of course Red Star was like a tomb, just a few sales people standing around. Made a point to stop by at CD Peacock to compliment them on their Billboard on 294 SB near Bensenville. "Marshall Field Shopped Here!". Passed out two buttons and had a nice chat with two of the sales people there. One CD Peacock sales perdson had sold fine jewelry at Fields before the takeover. Also handed out several more buttons to Fields fans at another very high end store in the mall.

Lundgren will NEVER get it. Never Ever Ever try and ram something down the throat of a midwesterner. We are a proud lot who believe and live traditions. While the strategy may work in some markets where the population is homogeneous (think Los Angeles or Dallas area) moving there from throughout the country, even in the smaller midwest markets, he figured that Messys would be appreciated. Well, if I want cheap prices with high volume I'll patronize Sam Walton's enterprises. At least they put things in the same place, and carry a reasonable range of merchandise. Likewise COSTCO, which I love for certain food items, wine (at excellent prices) and hard goods. If it is electronics or appliances, NO ONE does better than ABT in Glenview. Get your price at Best Buy then go to ABT. Better service, selection and they will do well on the price too.

My two cents for the new year.

P.S. EVERYONE SAID KEEP UP THE GOOD EFFORT, IT IS WORKING!!!

JACK


Date: Sat, January 5, 2008  7:59 am CT
Posted by: Jim

Those are some great points Todd R makes about Wannamakers and Field's.

On top of that, it is important to keep in mind that is also just one of the many facets to this story.

Philly would still largely still be the international-class city it is today with or without Wannamakers. Philly had all that rich colonial history, Ben Franklin, University of Pennsylvania, the Liberty Bell, everything related to the revolution and more.

Chicago had little of that until Marshall Field teamed up with Potter Palmer. Field and his department store were major forces in transforming Chicago into an international city. From the Columbian Exposition to the University of Chicago to the many musuems and simply helping to rebuild Chicago after the fire, Field became our Ben Franklin. Marshall Field's is the root of our history, culture, tourism and identity. I can't think of another city with a department store featuring roots hat has done all that.


Date: Sat, January 5, 2008  2:33 am CT
Posted by: Todd R

I feel for you all, I was born and raised in the Philadelphia area. We had John Wanamaker's which was on par with Marshall Field's and Co. We lost it to May Department Stores. At least the main store in Philadelphia at 13th and Market they made Lord & Taylor. Wanamakers if I remember correctly had 14 floors, with the restraunt simular to the walnut room. May closed the restraunt, and the top 9 floors and turn them into rented office space. Then Macys purchased May and kicked L&T out of the Wanamaker building to put Macys in. Closed the strawbridge building all together.

I now live in Nashville, and Macys took over the Hechts who took over for Caster Knotts. Macys is bad her the merchandise is bland.

I remember Macys for years ago, and they were a more fashional store then a trendy fashion place.

In the late 70's I shopped Fields in Houston TX when I visited family. I never got to the Chicago store but used to get catalogs and order by mail. Or later on line.

I feel lots of old friends are gone, now we have just former structures of these grand merchants left. So here is to Marshall Field's and Co., and John Wanamaker's.

By the way if May Department stores plan for Marshall Field's would of fully happened, Marshall Field's would of been a national brand too. May wanted to re-brand all the stores to one name and Marshall Field's was the choice. Unfortunately the purchase of Field's and some other decissions caused them to have the chairman leave, and instead of wanting to get a new chairman and fix the issues they sold to Macys.


Date: Fri, January 4, 2008  11:12 pm CT
Posted by: Casserine WIllis

Kurt, In regards to Northbrook Court, Lord & Taylor may go before Macy's. Lord & Taylor is never that busy at Northbrook Court, compared to Woodfield, Old Orchard and Oak Brook, where the store is at times swamped. I spoke to 'my husband's best friend' who works at Nordstrom and they are not expanding any time soon in the Chicago market. Reasons stated is the soft economy and they are very choosy when it comes to locations. Nordstrom turned down Bolingbrook, Orland Park, Gurnee Mills (for the Rack) and Deer Park in the past few years. On the flipside, Saks does very well a few miles east in downtown Highland Park.

Leah, Marshall Field's stop giving cash refunds on gift receipts or no receipts since the 90s. They gave yellow merchandise voucher slips that expired after 36 months.

As a former employee, I was approached by customers a few times when they presented gift receipts or Field's private labels as returns w/o receipt. A few times people were turned away, but in most instances, Management eased the angry customer that could not get cash with 'freebies' like coffee, gift certificates and in one instance, a customer had received merchandise from the store manager.

True story... This was back in January 1996, the guest came in an hour before closing (I was the associate who assisted the guest) wanting to return the Field Gear coat that she received as a gift (with a gift receipt) and get cash cause she told us she honestly needed the money. She was a very kindhearted lady. I got 2 department managers to try to help this guest (who told us she was 74 years old) but she just wanted to get cash and both managers were not able to do anything, due to policy. After a few moments, the 2 managers leave and the store manager magically shows up and had a long pleasant conversation with the guest and both walked away for about 15 minutes. I was straightening out merchandise and I remember my nickname (Cass) being yelled out twice by the store manager who told me to finish the transaction, issue a voucher and give it to the guest. I noticed the customer left with a few tears and the biggest smile on her face and a green Field's shopping bag on her arm. I was shocked to see the bag on her arm and the guest genuinely at ease thanking us over a million times for her pleasant visit.

I loosely hinted to the store manager that it was nice that the guest bought something, but why didn't she use the voucher? The store manager was off for the day already but got paged, so the manager came around. The store manager apologized about the company policy on cash refunds, but started to hold deeper conversations with the customer, so they can feel better. The manager asked the guest what she wanted for Christmas the most, but didn't get? She said slippers. The store manager told her to sit down and make herself at home and they will be right back. The store manager bought the customer a set of matching Field Gear slippers and robe in her favorite color (pink), a 1/2 pound box of Frango mints... along with a TON of cosmetic and fragrance samples. It was all put inside a green MF bag and the rest is history.

>From that day (this was in my college years) I knew Marshall Field's was a store of integrity and class. Customers loved us and it was a badge of pride at one time working for Field's. It was SO hard for me to get a job there in the beginning, but I loved coming to work every day when I was there. When I relocated to NY, I was so sad that they had no Marshall Field's, so I worked at Stern's and Macy's, both could NEVER compare to the quality of the Field's brand. After I graduated college I came back and worked part time for over 6 yrs, but quit a month after the name change.

My mother had worked there for over 25 years, retiring in 1998. My mother would dress so elegant everyday going to work and when they had their employee sales, she always left the store with tons of new clothes she had purchased. Those green bags all over my mom's 2 bedroom apartment is one of my most fondest, treasured Field's memories. I miss Field's.


Date: Fri, January 4, 2008  10:18 pm CT
Posted by: JamesfromCa

To answer Axn that was a Christmas ornament from 2004 I believe, it is very collectible and they are up for auction from time to time on Ebay.They usually end up selling for $25.00 and more. In December 2005 they sold on auction for over $70.00.

Date: Fri, January 4, 2008  9:11 pm CT
Posted by: Linda S

We took the children to the San Diego Zoo today in the van bearing one of Gail's bumper stickers. When we returned to the car, we found a note on the windshield that said, "Nice sticker. Go Fields!" I wonder if someone who posts to this blog was at the zoo, or if it was an anonymous Fields fan here in southern California.

Date: Fri, January 4, 2008  8:17 pm CT
Posted by: denise rule

to claire oseda: re: your post about the Oprah show this week with stacy london and the acknowledgement of Marshall Field's and their back and forth about what a great store it is....sadly that show is a rerun of quite a while ago, maybe two yrs. that was not the only "fashion" show where Oprah used Marshall Field's..it was her store of choice. shockingly, this year she accepted gift cards from the red star store and gave them away on one show. there is a whole topic re: this, the issue of "Oprah's New Use Of Macy's" on her message boards at www.oprah.com one needs only to register and then comment freely.

Date: Fri, January 4, 2008  6:02 pm CT
Posted by: Martha@Kmart, yes: Martha@Macy's, no

This article says Martha Stewart's business is down since her wares have been in Macy's stores.

http://www.antandsons.com/2008/01/another-blow-to-martha-stewart-living.html

Date: Fri, January 4, 2008  1:15 pm CT
Posted by: Lori D

I was so disappointed when I traveled home this Christmas season. I was looking forward to going to Marshall Field's at the Water Tower Place for holiday shopping. What I found is that Macy's has destroyed the feel of Chicago. I see that Macy's does not belong in the Chicagoland market. Our city has lost a place that is in the hearts of all of us...even if we don't live at home anymore. It's very sad.

Macy's please bring Marshall Field's with all of the history, prestige, style and brands that it once had. The fans (near and far) miss Marshall Field's and want it back.

I SUPPORT THE BOYCOTT AGAINST MACY'S IN THE CHICAGOLAND MARKET!!!


Date: Fri, January 4, 2008  11:29 am CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels

Macy stock tumbled to $21.87 at 11 AM CT. Stock holders are loosing their shirts!

Let me take out the Jimmy Gimbel brand crystal ball and look into the future. Here is what will happen:

1. Another stock holder class action law suit focused on M's idiotic management.

2. M will distribute another press release about sales meeting "expectations." Be sure to look at the data closely...very closely. They probably will use selective data that does not compare apples to apples. Of course, we are all waiting for the press release that blames poor sales on warm weather, cold weather, snow, lack of snow or that meteor that is on a collison course with Mars.

3. Remember kids: it is easy to meet "expectations" when your expectations are not very high. M store lowered their holiday and annual projections several times during 2007. They definitely are not making anywhere near the sales or revenue orginally projected for 2007. BOYCOTT IS WORKING FOLKS!

4. More markdowns, more shopping passes and lots more day sales are in the future. M stores in IL have a mountain of unsold holiday merch in every department. This will attract the value shopper who really has no alliance to any store...they only shop during sales. Lots of Martha on sale...I thought that was a hit according to Lughead.

5. Lots of expenses (a couple million dollars) will be buried under the "May Co. Conversion" column.

6. M store will look for more places to cut costs. Let's see, they have already cut a lot of maintenance, training and staffing hours. Bet those exterior signs that say "ACYS" or M CYS" never get fixed. The year 2008 holds even messier stores and even less people on selling floor. I could be wrong. M store is already on record that training and helpful sales associates are job one for 2008. HA!

7. Take over rumors will begin to fly...they always help booster the stock. M has a lot of valuable real estate. Look at all the rumors when the stock dropped to $30.

While Jimmy Gimbels has the flu, he will keep an eye on Macy stock, so you don't have to!


Date: Fri, January 4, 2008  9:40 am CT
Posted by: Clint

In response to Gail's post, that Oprah episode with Stacy London originally aired on 04/28/06, when Field's was Field's.

Date: Thurs, January 3, 2008  10:05 pm CT
Posted by: JasonM

I'll always remember when I was a teen and I went to Marshall Field's State Street during the holidays... not really thinking I would buy anything since I wasn't making any money. Then I happened to look around the men's section and I saw some men's dress shirts for $5.97. That's no typo... $5.97! I picked out three or four. The sales associate treated me like I was the highest spender in town. Knowing I was buy a gift for my dad, she put them in tissue and boxed them up for me. AGAIN THIS IS FOR A PURCHASE THAT WAS LESS THAN $20! I will never forget that. The level of customer service. The fact that the sales person treated you the same whether you just bought a designer sportcoat or some "just-happened-to-luckily-find-on-sale-right-near-Christmas" men's dress shirts for your dad and uncle. This made in impression on me and I always shopped Field's because it really was "The Ultimate Department Store."

Date: Thurs, January 3, 2008  7:49 pm CT
Posted by: Steven

Today I stopped by Nordstrom Rack on the way into work to buy some gym shorts. The temperature with wind chill must have been in the bone-chilling single digits. It occurred to me as I hurried over to State Street from the bus stop at Michigan and Washington that I am so disgusted by Macy's that I won't even cut through the State Street store to stay warm. A quick glance around confirmed that I was not alone. True Chicagoans would rather freeze than cut through Macy's. Got that Terry? That's how tough this market is.

Date: Thurs, January 3, 2008  7:09 pm CT
Posted by: Jim

Schaeffers Research analyst Beth Gaston Moon has perhaps the most interesting analysis of last week's announcement that nine more Macy's are closing. This is from this past Monday.

http://www.schaeffersresearch.com/commentary/content/behind+the+headlines+macys+closing+9+stores+resulting+in+loss+of+900+jobs+/observations.aspx?ID=81636

Date: Thurs, January 3, 2008  7:06 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

Retail stocks were hit hard again today including Nordstrom (-5.08%), Macy's (-5.68%), Saks (-5.77%), Dillards (-7.20%), and Bon-Ton (parent of Carson's, -16.10%). Target and Sears DID rise today. It's really something about Bon-Ton since shares were somewhere in the mid-$50s several months ago--now shares are in the $7-range. Many sales reports in the past suggest that Carson's sales are keeping the Bon-Ton half of the relationship afloat. Which brings us to Macy's: M stock closed at $23.57 which is at least a two-year low. Remember that something like ten months ago, Macy's shares were in the low- to mid-$40s with LBO rumors suggesting a buyout in the low $50s.

Macy's December sales report is due a week from today on January 10. (January sales come out February 7 and figures for the three months ending February 2 come out on February 26.)

Terry Lundgren will be a guest judge on an upcoming episode of Donald Trump's "The Apprentice". The episode will air sometime this month.

http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080103/BIZ01/301030042/1076

Date: Thurs, January 3, 2008  6:44 pm CT
Posted by: Darrell

In regards to Darrid's recent post about the nine Macys (former May stores) that are closing, I live in Indianapolis and can tell you that L. S. Ayres store has been in business for about 30 years. Funny how it's only been able to last a little over a year as a Macys.

Date: Thurs, January 3, 2008  4:03 pm CT
Posted by: N

I now live in New York State; However 60 years ago I lived in Illinois and remember all he wonderful trips into Chicago to shop at Field's. Afternoon Tea before we caught the North Shore for home is a memory I will never forget. Please take away Macy's history's sake and bring back Field's.

Date: Thurs, January 3, 2008  3:56 pm CT
Posted by: james e. s.

I have visited Marshall Field's only twice, but knew a few regulars, especially those who described its unique qualities. It wasn't broken, but the big bad bean counters took over and destroyed an institution. One thing that most department store managers have in common is their stupidity, except of course, when they're cutting the ribbon, opening day of yet another unneeded branch.

Date: Thurs, January 3, 2008  3:09 pm CT
Posted by: Scott L

I hope you guys dont blame poor New York for Federated's stupid moves.As a native New Yorker I am totally with you on this and I hope all Chicagoans will give Macy's the finger until Marshall Fields is revived.Cut up your charge cards and mail them to Federated's CEO.Here in New York we know all about losing iconic stores..with the loss of B Altmans (one of the most elegant NY stores),Gimbels,Peck n Peck,Arnold Constable.A & S was a landmark store in owntown Brooklyn for a century and stupid Federated turned it into a Macy's.Federated has destroyed most of the great old department store chains we had in the US.I Magnin,Burdines,Jordan Marsh,Hechts,Bambergers...So keep up the good fight in the windy city!New Yorkers feel your pain!Keep it Fields!

Date: Thurs, January 3, 2008  3:05 pm CT
Posted by: Mary

Lloyd Wendt's "Give the Lady What She Wants" was the focus of a book discussion group at the Oak Park Public Library this past November. The book was of course written for 1952's 100th Anniversary of Field's.

Date: Thurs, January 3, 2008  3:01 pm CT
Posted by: Field's Fan

The January 2008 issue of "Business Week Chicago" has a rebuttal to the nasty commentary that appeared last month.

Written by Michael Trentseau of Atlanta, the letter calls Bob Reed's anti-Field's supporters column 's "bitter, inaccurate, and one-sided". The same page points out that Mr. Reed was a former editor of Crain's Chicago Business. Mr. Trentseau has posted in this forum.

You can see the letter on page 4 of the electronic version of BW-Chicago.

http://www.zinio.com/express2?issn=0007-7135CHI

Date: Thurs, January 3, 2008  10:02 am CT
Posted by: Field's Fan

While the Sun-Times hasn't recently run a story on the closing of the Lake Forest store, the STNG has a story in today's Waukegan News-Sun [ and later it appeared in the Aurora Beacon News ].

The store will close on January 20. The article describes the store as "the centerpiece in Market Square." The building's owners call the building "a jewel box."

http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/business/723994,5_3_WA03_MACY_S1.article

The story also includes a link to a recent photo of the very beautiful building.

http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/newssun/business/724003,WA03_MACY_P1.fullimage

Date: Wed, January 2, 2008  5:36 pm CT
Posted by: Nina G

A good parade spoiled...not even a half-day into the New Year, and I'm watching the Tournament of Roses Parade on TV, and the announcer describes the Rose Queen's float as being sponsored by MACY'S! Yikes! You can't run away from these people - ever!

Happy New Year everybody - and here's to success in restoring a proud Chicago tradition in Great '08!


Date: Wed, January 2, 2008  5:06 pm CT
Posted by: Rochelle

My parents lived in Chicago several years ago and I loved visiting the Marshall Fields flagship store! And the Frango mints - yum!

I do not shop at Macy's anymore. In Denver where I live currently, they have converted all of the Foley's to Macy's. We have abundant other shopping resources in Denver and I use them!

In Indianapolis, where I grew up, both Lazarus and LS Ayres were changed to Macy's. The Lazarus stores used to have lovely restaurants, especially the one at Castleton Mall in Indy - no longer though. LS Ayres was a respected department store founded by a historical Indiana family. Macy's just doesn't have the history to make me want to shop there, and contributes to the sad situation of every place in the US being alike.

I saw in the news this weekend that they are closing the Ayres/Macy's store at Washington Square mall in Indy due to "underperformance". Funny how this store was open for over 30 years and now that it is a Macy's it doesn't make any money anymore! This Ayres store was special to me as I spent many childhood hours shopping there with my mom on our weekly outings.

Thanks for all of your efforts in fighting Macy's! I really want to see the original names go back on all of these stores and the original merchandise carried again!


Date: Wed, January 2, 2008  3:39 pm CT
Posted by: Steven

From the Apparel Analyst (link to full story: http://www.apparelanalyst.com/news_details.php?id=752

Macy's has selected locations where it is experiencing declining sales and where it has been unable to identify sufficient growth opportunities. The company has faced disappointing sales and resistance from shoppers in some markets where the Macy's name replaced local favourites it absorbed as part of the May acquisition although last month it swung to a profit of US$33 million in its third quarter in contrast to a slim the year before.

So there you have it. Contrary to what you may have heard from the Borg -- I mean Macy's -- no, I really mean the Borg -- resistance is NOT FUTILE. It takes more than hot air (whether parade balloons or Donald Trump or the chump himself, Terry Lundgren, take your pick) to successfully run a department store in the Midwest.

Also in the news today:

Macy's stock priced closed at $24.99 today, January 2, for a market capitalization of $10.82 billion, $180 million LESS than what Federated paid for May. Even though Federated got some cash for selling Lord & Taylor and its bridal businesses, the COMPLETE EROSION of the value of the May businesses, particularly Marshall Field's has got to be the most STUNNING RETAIL ACQUISITION FAILURE ever.


Date: Wed, January 2, 2008  1:53 pm CT
Posted by: R S

Here is what was printed in the Dallas Morning News about the big Macy's store closing.
http://www.guidelive.com/sharedcontent/dws/dn/latestnews/stories/122907dnbusmacysclosings.5e451dc5.html

From a loyal Field's fan & former employee


Date: Wed, January 2, 2008  1:30 pm CT
Posted by: drew

Since macy*mart is running "fire sales" to generate customer traffic, how will this effect both December and fourth quarter profits:

http://www.businessweek.com/bwdaily/dnflash/content/dec2007/db20071227_703212.htm?campaign_id=yhoo

The article notes that many of the "quick fixes" used by Lunkhead and other "desperate" retailers aren't a strategy for long-term success. (Who didn't know that?) The "marketing genius" at macy*mart has already cut back on staff, merchandise quality and selection, store maintenance, and services in order to compensate for lagging sales and to show a profit to Wall Street. There is really nothing left to cut and sales are down. Lunkhead is caught between the proverbial rock and hard place.

Granted, the economic climate is very difficult for all retailers today. Other stores have a niche in the market which will help them weather the storm, but macy*mart has yet to define their target consumer. For most shoppers, macy*mart is totally irrelevant.


Date: Wed, January 2, 2008  1:26 pm CT
Posted by: J L

Bring back Marshall Fields - and Chicago history!

Date: Wed, January 2, 2008  1:19 pm CT
Posted by: LiMack

At a party on New Year's Eve I had an interesting chat with a salesperson who had spent great decades at Marshall Fields and one not so great year with Macy's before she retired about a month ago. She had hoped to work a few more years but said she just finally reached the point where she could no longer bear to go in to work at Macy's every day. She made her decision when Macy's sent letters in October offering a small monetary enticement to long time sales people to leave the company. She said some left in early November and some in early December. So,--to recap---right before the busiest and most challenging time on the retail calendar, Macy's was ENCOURAGING some of their most knowledgeable, reliable, competent, experienced, and highly trained sales people to leave. No wonder shoppers at Macy's report they can never find sales help and are so dissatified with service levels.

I asked if sales were as far down as has been reported in the media. She just nodded and laughed and rolled her eyes. I then inquired if she resented, or was upset that so many Chicagoans were resisting the "Magic of Macy's". She said, "Absolutely not. Everyone from the janitors to some pretty high ups, tried to tell them taking away Field's was a ridiculous idea but Macy's management thought they knew better." She added that she doesn't for one minute blame shoppers who were used to Field's for avoiding Macy's once they got a whiff of it. "Macy's brought this all down on themselves. The environment within the store is horrible and it shows to customers. There is no comraderie, no pride, no respect, and no sense of ownership."

She had some pointed comments about the merchandise quality differeces between Field's and Macy's, too, but I don't want to say too much about that because it would specifically identify the department she worked in and possibly her, to anyone from Macy's who might be checking out this blog.

Losing Marshall Field's was a huge blow to the Chicago retail scene, and that includes both shoppers and employees. It is just so very sad for everyone involved.


Date: Wed, January 2, 2008  12:11 pm CT
Posted by: Leah F

My first (and last) attempt in entering the State Street Messy's store came the day after Christmas when I tried to return a tube of expensive shower/bath gel that my daughter in Ohio sent me as a gift. When I opened the gift in Chicago and saw the bar-coded sticker saying "Macy's," I knew then and there that the gift would go back, and I could hopefully get a cash refund so that I could shop elsewhere.

I had a dental appointment preceding my attempt to return said bath/shower gel. My dentist even told me that the Xmas windows this year were appalling, but I guess I had to see them for myself, which I did following my journey inside the store. My dentist was right. I would think those windows took all of 15 minutes or less to throw together, and they certainly were a far cry from what we were used to seeing when the store was Marshall Field's.

I went over to the cosmetic counter inside the store which handled this particular brand of shower gel. I nicely told the two store clerks (both dressed in funerary black, of course)that I wanted to return this item for a cash refund. Both of these clerks hemmed and hawed and indicated I would need the actual paper receipt in order to get a cash refund, and I told them to read the bar-coded sticker which said, "receipt for return," instead because this was a gift to me. They still insisted I could not get a cash refund at which point I loudly said, "I do not want a store credit because I refuse to shop at your store because I hate it. Marshall Field's would have given me a cash refund, so what's wrong with you?" They told me to go to Customer Service by the fountain, which I did, only to be told again by another lady dressed in all black, of course, that I would need to return to the counter I was originally at. Talk about NOT "giving the lady what she wants" and making the customer feel like a human ping-pong ball. And so, I was returning to the original counter when another lady dressed in all black approaches me and asks if she could help me. Now, by this time, I was losing my patience, so I again asked for a cash refund and I was again told the same sad swan story. At this point, I told the clerk to give me a gift card in the amount of the refund, and I would return it down to my daughter because I refused to shop at the store myself. She said I could do that, but from that point on, her phony smile turned into a mortuary frown. I accepted the card, and instead of walking out of that place, I ran, knowing full well that I will not return again.

Out on the street, I heard the lovely words, "Marshall Field's," and I spotted a couple people from this group handing out materials. I immediately went up to the one, shook his hand and smiled, telling him my sad story of woe. It was like meeting an old friend when I discovered I was speaking to Jim McKay who was with Judy passing out leafalets.

I have sent the gift card and a letter with one of the materials Jim gave me down to my daughter in Ohio. I think my letter is self-explanatory about my experience within the State Street store, and I asked my daughter to read everything closely and support this boycott. Whether or not she does this is up to her, but I know for myself, I will not accept anything coming from a store whose customer service reminded me of something I would not care to run into anytime soon ever again in the future.

As far as dress codes go: I felt like a funeral cortege was due to leave the confines of that store at any time with everyone dressed somberly in black attire. I should know, because back in the 80's, I worked for a cemetery myself, and Macy's clerks reminded me of my past co-workers. Between the grim reaper clothing and lack of any warm and fuzzy feelings usually generated by sales staff during the holiday season, I could not wait to leave that store. When you think of it, customer service still ranks #1 on the charts, and to see how inadequate Macy's customer service had been to me on this one occasion, certainly qualifies me to say that Macy's can take their staff of morticians and head out of town sooner, rather than later!

As a kid growing up in Chicago myself, I consider myself fortunate to have had Marshall Field's to visit during the holidays and beyond. I feel sorry for today's little ones, having to view such poorly designed and underdesigned imitations of Christmas windows that I saw the other day. As far as the big tree goes: My friends all told me it was an abomination, so after dealing with the haphazard customer service and seeing the disappointing windows, I didn't even bother going up to the 7th and 8th floors of the store. Frankly, I had seen enough that day. I fully support this boycott, and I hope to see Marshall Field green once again on State Street. What I saw the day after Christmas is a far cry from what used to be.


Date: Wed, January 2, 2008  11:58 am CT
Posted by: M

My friend sent me this information. I was born and raised in Chicago, and thought Marshall Fields to be the best. I am presently living in Georgia, due to my husband being in military We had a nice department store called Rich's and then taken over by Macy's. I will never shop at any Macy's store. I loved Fields, and have many fond memories of their State Street store and also the one in Oak Park, Illinois, that I frequently shopped at. There will never be another Fields....I support all those who are boycotting Macy's.

Thank you.


Date: Wed, January 2, 2008  10:28 am CT
Posted by: Claire Osada

Did anyone watch Oprah this morning? Stacy London (from What Not to Wear) was on, giving fashion and style advice. She took some women shopping for the perfect jeans, black pants, and khakis. Sadly, it looked like they went shopping at Macy's on State St. When the segment was over, Oprah asked her "Where did you go shopping? Marshall Field's?" She continued on with what a great store Field's is. :-)

Now, unless this was a episode from over a year ago (which I doubt), I just thought it was great how even on national television, people will not acknowledge the Macy's name or their presence...and for good reason!!


Date: Wed, January 2, 2008  9:53 am CT
Posted by: T

I am a former "Macy's" employee. Never by design, I worked for the Stern's department store division of Federated several years ago when it was decided it should be made into a Macy's.

During my employment at Sterns', people truly felt they were cared about. Many employees were long term, yes there were problems to deal with, but we were treated like humans. When it became a Macy's all that was stripped away. They got rid of people who had worked years for the company, have made it impossible with their revised wage charts for the people to ever get another raise. They based it heavily on the opening of new charge cards. The store I worked in did not have a large neighborhood turn over and the emphasis put on high interest rate cards wasn't going to win over new applicants. There was so many things that made it difficult to the point of impossible to work there.

Anyway, I just wanted to tell you what you're doing is fantastic, get them the hell out of your area because it will be the same there. People will be treated like poorly and the customers will never again know what service is.


Date: Wed, January 2, 2008  9:53 am CT
Posted by: cpc

i miss the marshall fields that was once in the city center mall! downtown columbus (ohio) has really gone downhill since they closed! one can not find quaility,affordable clothes anywhere in this state!

Date: Tues, January 1, 2008  9:12 pm CT
Posted by: A. Perkins

It seems you just can't keep a good name down.

""Montgomery Ward" and "Wards" trademarks were purchased by Iowa-based direct marketing company Direct Marketing Services Inc., a catalog marketer, for an undisclosed amount of money.[1] DMSI then began operating under the same branding as the original company and managed to get it up and running in three months and started a new, smaller catalog. It is not the same company as the original, however. . .

"It is expected that Wards will soon start selling clothing and shoes and will also release a Spanish version of their site. David Milgrom, president of the firm, said in an interview with the Associated Press: "We're rebuilding the brand, and we want to do it right."

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montgomery_Ward

Montgonery Ward, AT&T, just two icons of commerce that came back.


Date: Tues, January 1, 2008  8:10 pm CT
Posted by: Da Burgh

For those who didn't experience the "exciting" macy*mart Christmas on State Street, check out this site:

http://forums.tannerworld.com/showthread.php?p=55427

Date: Tues, January 1, 2008  3:15 pm CT
Posted by: AxN

I had kind of a weird Dayton-Hudson-Marshall Field's experience in a thrift store recently, and I'm hoping someone can help me discern the origin of one of the items.

It's a small paper mache' sculpture of a stack of four gift boxes with an actual red ribbon tied around it. The bottom box has the Marshall Field's logo, and each box is in a different shade of green. I figured they were probably gift items sold around Christmas, but several people suggested they may have been in-store props for the jewelry or makeup counters.

At the same place, I found a tie with a tag bearing the old Marshall Field and Company logo used prior to the DHC ownership. This is a rarity around here (Michigan), since our Field's had been a Hudson's until 2001, and this logo was never put into circulation up here. I also spied three Santa Bears from the year 1986. They were in fairly good shape, but since those bears are fairly space consuming, I left them alone.


Date: Tues, January 1, 2008  2:24 pm CT
Posted by: Jon C.

This New Year's Eve just did not seem like my traditional New Year's Eve because one main thing was missing...Marshall Field's Champagne!

Field's own famous champagne was known throughout the midwest as being one of the most tasty, smooth, and bubbly champagnes anywhere. It was at or near the top of most champagne rating listings. The price was extremely reasonable too. Most brides, who registered with Marshall Field's and planned their receptions through Field's, would request the MF brand of champagne by the case.

I remember during the fall of 2006 when macy's was taking over, I called most of the Field's stores for the champagne. I was informed by all Marketplace sales associates that the bottles of champagne were one of the first things to sell out completely in the Field's stores. One store, Joliet, had one remaining which I reserved by phone and celebrated with on New Year's Eve one year ago. Now I wished I had saved it for the time when we can celebrate the return of Marshall Field's.

Seems that we all miss Marshall Field's every day of the year, but the fact that Field's was so much a part of every holiday makes us miss Field's all the more when those holidays roll around each year with the special touches that Field's provided to us!

Happy New Year to All Field's Fans! Here is a toast to the resurrection of Marshall Field & Company in 2008!!

Cheers!


Date: Tues, January 1, 2008  1:49 pm CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels

DON'T YOU BELIEVE FOR A MINUTE THAT MACY'S IS ONLY CLOSING NINE STORES!!!

Rumors are still flying among M-store folks about more closings in the near future. One rumor has Northbrook Court closing for a remodel and to be rebranded as a Bloomingdale's. Another rumor says Vernon Hills store is said to be a candidate for closing (Apparently Carson's wants to grab the space since their current location cannot handle the flood of ex-Field's customers).

In addition, my "insiders" tell me that:

- Two stores in central Wisconsin may be gone by the next holiday season.

-A location in Chicago's far west burbs is also on shaky ground.

-Macy's has been little help in helping to relocate Lake Forest employees to other locations.

Crain's released their list of top tourist destinations in the "2008 Chicago Book of Lists." Macy's is not mentioned. Marshall Field's was ALWAYS mentioned on the list.


Date: Tues, January 1, 2008  CT
Posted by: Jim McKay

I can certainly remember the blue "Marketplace" bags from Field's--especially how ugly they were. The Marshall Field's script logo was not included, and the bags looked like they were designed by the same person who designed the "freehand-style print" logo for the community giving program at the Target division around the same time in the early to mid-90s. The "MARKETPLACE at Marshall Field's" bags were used pretty much exclusively for gourmet food purchases at the Marketplace area. So if you purchased Frangos from stores with a Marketplace area, they were bagged in these. What made them so ugly? It was French blue ink saturated all over a brown bag with handles. It just lacked a certain class. I still have one or two in storage, but they were ugly enough that I usually discarded the blue Marketplace bags right away with my recycling. The bags were used year round--not just seasonally.

While I don't want to dwell on nostaligic trivia that will do little directly to bring back Field's, I do wish to point out that for a holiday season in the mid 1980s, the bags were a dusty rose color--I guess some call it "mauve". (This was the era of "Miami Vice" and "colonial blue and pink"!) The Great Clock was in gold. The Field's logo used the familiar script in white but was extended to say, "Marshall Field's & Christmas". We have a wreath that is stored in this bag so I see it twice a year, although it is crumpled a bit. :-)


Date: Tues, January 1, 2008  2:30 am CT
Posted by: Beth Walsh

Thanks to Marc !

For some reason I just don't remember seeing these blue bags. I knew it wasn't terribly old, but I really don't remember them. Even stranger,the early 90s would be when I was in Field's the most, since that was when I worked right down the street.

Like everybody, I seem to keep coming across things that I purchased or were given to me that have the Field's label. Luckily, we at least still have these memories to help us get through the seasons until Field's returns.

Beth


Date: Tues, January 1, 2008  1:42 am CT
Posted by: Darrid

Happy New Year to all my Fellow Field's Fans!

A more telling story about the 9 stores closing is this. None of them were former Macy's, all were May locations. I did my homework tonight and here is what I came up with.

All 3 Ohio stores were Kaufmann's.

The Indiana store was an L.S. Ayre's.

The Utah store was a Meier and Frank.

The Texas, Louisiana and Oklahoma stores were Foley's.

What does this tell you Field's Fans? Wall Street? America DOES NOT WANT homogenized department stores!

Recently I was in Lancaster Ohio where Macy's closed its old Lazarus store this past spring. I found it very interesting how much growth was in this area. There are store building up all over. For the size of the store it should have been an integral part to the development but I'm sure since the name change 3 years ago, people lost interest and started going to Elder-Beerman (also at the same Mall). Although EB is cramped it was bustling with business when I was there.

Remember what I said before the 60 former Field's store and 40 Bloomingdale's makes up almost 20% of all of Macy's sales. The more Macy's fails in Chicago the more volatile their stock becomes.

Do any of the people who are investing in Macy's really look at what they are doing? Or What Macy's is doing?



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