Looptopia 2008 on State Street:
Those Wearing "Forever Marshall Field's" Pin-on Buttons
Outnumber Those Carrying Macy's Bags by 7 to 1
(CHICAGO, May 5, 2008) This past Friday and Saturday, Chicago held its second annual Looptopia. A dusk-'til-dawn all-nighter comparable to Paris' and other European cities' "White Night", hundreds of thousands—especially "the younger crowd"—flooded the Loop for a uniquely Chicago cultural experience. Macy's stayed open until Midnight. And for more than six hours beginning at 5:00 pm, FieldsFansChicago.org greeted "Looptopians" under the Great Marshall Field Clock at State and Washington.
Despite Macy's claims that their store is more appealing to young customers than Field's, the response to FieldsFansChicago.org during Looptopia demonstrated quite the ooposite. Attendees reacted with great enthusiasm as they snapped up almost 2,000 "Forever Marshall Field's" pin-on buttons and almost as many leaflets explaining why Chicago's Marshall Field's must return. And Field's supporters wore buttons on State Street in the greatest numbers yet. FieldsFansChicago.org counted over seven times more people wearing "Forever Marshall Field's" pin-on buttons than those carrying Macy's shopping bags!
The overwhelming reaction from Chicago's young adults? Clearly they want their Marshall Field's! (Not Macy's!)
Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008 9:10 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Regarding the First Queater 2008 results, it can't be emphasized enough that these are for all 800-plus Macy's and Bloomingdale's stores.
I wouldn't at all be surprised if the New York area stores were up and very profitable. Same for northern California.
But it's very obvious to anyone who has been in 111 N State and some other former Field's stores that these are doing poorly and no where close to as well as when they were Marshall Field's. Shuffle the figures, make them look nice, but the fact is that the former Field's stores were the crown jewel of the MayCo acquisition and they are not doing well.
James Miller is right-on correct when he writes below that "Here again, Macy's chooses to lose money".
Chicgao still wants it's Marshall Field's. They could be making money on these stores if they brought them back as Field's.
The Lord & Taylor story posted below was excellent. The same could be happening if Field's was returned. The highest and best use of Macy's stores in the Chicago area is to return them to being run as Marshall Field's stores.
Be certain to watch for more news tomorrow about the annual shareholders meeting in Cincinnati.
Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008 6:35 pm, CT
Posted by: LiMack
Reading about Macy's stunning 59 million dollar losses over the first quarter,(that's a mere 3 months, folks) took me back to Macy's public spin from the not too distant past. I refer of course to Macy's PR machine at full throttle putting out reassuring stories that all was going well with the conversion, and suggesting that there were just a few dozen rabid and die-hard Marshall Field's Fans out there protesting and carrying signs and boycotting.
Well, at least now, most rational people are probably able to see between the lines that in order for a corporation to post a loss of that magnitude there are a few more than a couple dozen boycotters who have been avoiding Macy's stores across the country!
WHEN will the board of directors and shareholders of this company stop the madness that Terry Lundgren started?
Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008 3:45 pm, CT
Posted by: Craig Benson
http://wtopnews.com/index.php?nid=111&sid=1403729
Macy's posts $59M 1Q loss
(Excerpts) May 15, 2008
Macy's Inc. reported a $59 million first-quarter loss Wednesday because of lower sales and the costs of consolidation, which the company said should start paying off next year.
Losses totaled 14 cents a share in the three months ended May 3, compared with a profit of $36 million, or 8 cents a share, in the same quarter a year ago, Macy's said. Revenue was $5.75 billion, down from $5.92 billion a year ago.
Macy's booked a $55 million after-tax charge, or 13 cents a share, to restructure three business units. Macy's also set aside $14 million after tax, or 3 cents per share, for a potential settlement of a labor class-action lawsuit in California.
Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008 3:19 pm, CT
Posted by: James Miller
Here again, Macy's chooses to lose money. They act like this is something current, but everyone knows that this has been an established way of doing business as far as the Marshall Field's realm is concerned.
Can the Macy's bigwigs really find the tradeoff of steady losses against the posture of dominating Marshall Field's with the Macy's logo to have borne a benefit to them? If so, I don't see what that is.
Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008 1:50 pm, CT
Posted by: LiMack
By nearly any measurement Chicago is one of the great cities of the world. It is an international city by virtue of its natural beauty, its business community, its facilities of higher education, its arts and architecture, and its restaurants. Its people, who are a warm, fun-loving and creative lot, are an amalgam of ethnicities, cultures and races who have been coming together as loyal "Chicagoans" for more than 160 years.
Chicago residents, and the wonderful visitors to our city who come from around the globe, deserve to have uniquely Chicago experiences. Shopping at Marshall Field's was one such unique and special experience. Marshall Field's was certainly a link back into its past, but was also an important link in the continuum toward Chicago's future. That link has been (temporarily) broken by Macy's ego-driven chairman. Because of him Chicago has suffered, shoppers have suffered, employees have suffered and Macy's shareholders have suffered. Enough is enough!
Marshall Field's must be re-opened, wholly restored, and operated by a merchant who is not affiliated with Macy's in any way.
Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008 1:29 pm, CT
Posted by: Rich
And here's the story of a true savior of the department store, Richard Baker of Lord & Taylor.
While other department stores are down, Lord & Taylor is up, up, up! Lord & Taylor's parent should buy Field's!
http://money.cnn.com/2008/05/15/news/companies/kapner_baker.fortune/
Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008 11:05 am, CT
Posted by: MikeM
I acted as a chauffeur for my teenage niece and her friends this past weekend, going to Oakbrook mall and Yorktown mall.
I asked where they shopped, and they mentioned stores like Abercrombie and Fitch, J. Crew, and Aeropostale.
I asked, "Don't you shop at Macy's?"
"Are you kidding?" one replied. "We would be caught dead in there."
I thought, if that is the attitude of fashionable young women towards Macy's, then that store is really in trouble. This younger generation can't stand Macy's!
Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008 11:00 am, CT
Posted by: E.B.
JimmyGimbels-
I not so sure that they changed the recipe. It could be the ones you tasted are stale, given what you say about the exp. dates on some of the boxes.
Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008 10:48 am, CT
Posted by: E.B.
This was posted before but deserves repeating. Look at the trend.
http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/apwire/59b7bdb0a336ffdd205617f9326d5b68.htm
Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008 10:33 am, CT
Posted by: gle
Here's today's "Tribune" version of,
"Macy's reports $59 million 1st-quarter loss on consolidation costs, lower sales"
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-thu-earnings-macys-may15,0,7448430.story
I notice the title mentions "loss" and "lower sales," even though Lundgren doesn't like to focus on the "regrets."
There are also still about 5 "Tribune" comment blogs going with pro-Field's posts added each day. People are obviously still interested.
Letters, as usual, need to be sent to 'ctc-TribLetter@tribune.com'
Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008 9:39 am, CT
Posted by: E.B.
Chicago Tribune has but a brief on the latest with Macy's. You can leave comments afterwards. Better yet, email Voice of the People at ctc-TribLetter@tribune.com . Did anyone see anything about this in today's sun-times? Or has the sun-times stopped giving them P.R. because Macy's hardly advertises in their paper any more?
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-thu-earnings-macys-may15,0,7448430.story
Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008 9:36 am, CT
Posted by: delia
Jim Kramer won't be buying Macy's stock right now.
http://www.bloggingstocks.com/2008/05/15/macys-q1-beats-analysts-but-dont-expect-me-to-buy-the-stock/#comments
Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008 8:27 am, CT
Posted by: JasonM
Same-store sales are not as low as they should be because they are being compared to the horrible sales of last year (the first year of macy's). If you had a horrible year last year, closed underperforming stores (which are not counted in SSS) then obviously your SSS are going to be "not that bad." Nonetheless other relevant retailers like Costco, Saks, etc. continue to post pretty good SSS.
The benefit of having dozens of trademarks is to use them! not to keep them in a safe. Bring back Field's, Rich's, Filene's, etc.
Date: Thurs, May 15, 2008 6:51 am, CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels
I think the pro-Field's fan base is growing larger thanks to those wacky folks at Macy's. So many people at work and school have tried Macy's and all agree that:
1.) Field's was a much better store in style, service, selection and quality.
2.) Macy's is on the bottom of the list for places to shop.
Macy's horror stories ranges from:
- Furniture never being delivered (4 months and counting for an in-stock sofa). Yes, this person cancelled the order and went to Carson's instead.
- Shoes that simpley feel apart. Thank you Jessica Simpson for being such a great cobbler.
- That woman in black who stands at the bottom on the escalator and barks out, "Can I help you?" If you do ask her a question, she is totally clueless.
- Sales associates unable to complete a simple return with a refund to a credit card. (You think they would be used to returns by now).
- Stale Frango mints. Yes, they are still trying to pass off candy made in 2006! And, it sure seems you changed the recipe. Shameful.
- Donald Trump suits (enough said!)
- Artificially marked up clothing so it can be marked down 50%. There is no value (at any price) for poorly made and fitting clothing.
- Dress shirts not available in a 34/45 sleeve. Because, as the Macy's associates so cleverly put it, "we only sell normal sizes."
Macy's turned off thousands of shoppers when they dumped the Marshall Field's nameplate...and eliminated everything that made a store great. They continue to loose market share with lousy products and even lousier service. No wonder 2,000 people were clammering for Field's buttons in the loop! At UC, many college students have Field's buttons on their jackets/pack backs. I thought this was the market Macy's was suppose to be going after. Hmmmm.
Well, off I go to Lord and Taylor. Not one cent spent at Macy's....EVER!
Date: Wed, May 14, 2008 10:06 pm, CT
Posted by: Fran
"Localization"? Why doesn't Terry Lundgren get it right and simply bring back Field's? It would be much better than a "localized Macy's".
Keep it up Field's Loyalists?
Date: Wed, May 14, 2008 9:22 pm, CT
Posted by: delia
The story from Cincinnat TV.
"Retailer Macy's says it lost 59 million dollars in the first quarter."
http://www.newschannel34.com/business/story.aspx?content_id=c3a7424e-0935-4fe9-9575-da6ff17bb5cd
Date: Wed, May 14, 2008 6:29 pm, CT
Posted by: Gayle
Hi all,
Don't forget to let manufacturers know of your unhappiness with M! I am a long-time user of Origins cosmetics, which I always purchased at Fields. When the red-star occupation began, I started to shop the free-standing Origins store at Oak Brook, and each time I went in I reiterated my unhappiness that they sell their product at Messy's. They told me they "hear that a lot!"
Now that Oak Brook Center has lost its magic for me, I find that I don't get there very often (I used to stop there several times a week on my way home from work--now it's maybe once a month or less). Instead, I've started buying Origins online. Every time I make a purchase, I am asked to fill out a BizRate survey. I used the survey to tell Origins that I love their products, but will not buy them at Macy's. They always respond personally (not a form email) so I know at least someone is reading and paying attention.
I'm sure an astute company like Origins can look at the sales switch from their leased dept. at Messy's to their free-standing store. Of course being in Messy's gives them wider distribution across the country, but that only counts if there are actual paying customers in the store. Not too often the case, from what I've observed.
viva la boycott!
gayle
Date: Wed, May 14, 2008 4:38 pm, CT
Posted by: Da Burgh
On a positive note, fieldsfans can give "those wacky folks at macy*s" some recognition for being consistent:
http://biz.yahoo.com/ap/080514/macy_s_glance.html?.v=1
Date: Wed, May 14, 2008 3:06 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
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FieldsFansChicago.org
Newsletter Number 14
WEDNESDAY, MAY 14, 2008
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IMPORTANT INFORMATION:
* TO UNSUBSCRIBE:
Send email to unsubscribe@fieldsfanschicago.org
Please include the email address you wish unsubscribed if it is not the one from which you are sending the request.
* TO SUBSCRIBE:
Send email to subscribe@fieldsfanschicago.org
Subscription requests must be sent from the email address that is to be added to the subscriber list.
* SWITCHING ADDRESSES?
1.) Send an unsubscribe request from either you old address or your new one; then
2.) send a subscribe request from your new address.
Again, NEW "Subscribe" requests MUST come from the address at which this newsletter is to be delivered.
* Please send all bug reports to jjmckay@fieldsfanschicago.org
* This newsletter has NO affiliation with Macy's, Inc. (formerly known as Federated Department Stores), May Department Stores, Macy's, Bloomingdale's, Marshall Field's, the Field Family, the Field Foundation of Chicago, keepitfields.org, etc., and the views, opinions and info expressed here represent only the
writer.
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For more information, please see
http://www.fieldsfanschicago.org
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In This Newsletter...
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* LOOPTOPIA 2008 ON STATE STREET:
A SEA OF MARSHALL FIELD'S SUPPORTERS!
* A 100,000+ MILESTONE IN THE MOVEMENT FOR FIELD'S!
√ Over 109,000 Leaflets Distributed on State Street & elsewhere
√ Over 102,000 Buttons & Lapel Stickers distributed world-wide.
√ Wear a free pin-on button in support of Field's!
√ Download, print & distribute leaflets!
* HERE'S HOW TO HELP:
IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, WRITE SOMETHING!
* DONATE BUTTONS, LEAFLETS & MORE
* CONTINUE TO BOYCOTT MACY'S
* STAY IN TOUCH VIA THE FIELDSFANSCHICAGO.ORG BLOG
* OTHER WAYS YOU CAN HELP
* SPECIAL REGARDS
* TO UNSUBSCRIBE
-------------------------------------------------------
PLEASE HELP BY FORWARDING THIS NEWSLETTER ON
TO ALL POTENTIALLY INTERESTED FRIENDS & FAMILY.
-------------------------------------------------------
LOOPTOPIA 2008 ON STATE STREET:
A SEA OF MARSHALL FIELD'S SUPPORTERS!
Those Wearing "Forever Marshall Field's" Pin-on Buttons
Outnumber Those Carrying Macy's Bags by at Least 7 to 1
(CHICAGO, May 5, 2008) This past Friday and Saturday, Chicago held its second annual Looptopia. A dusk-'til-dawn all-nighter comparable to Paris' and other European cities' "White Night", hundreds of thousands-especially "the younger crowd"-flooded the Loop for a uniquely Chicago cultural experience.
Macy's on State Street stayed open until midnight. And for more than six hours beginning at 5:00 pm, FieldsFansChicago.org greeted "Looptopians" under the Great Marshall Field Clock at State and Washington.
Despite Macy's claims that their store is more appealing to young customers than Marshall Field's, the response to FieldsFansChicago.org during Looptopia demonstrated quite the opposite.
Attendees reacted with great enthusiasm as they snapped up almost 2,000 "Forever Marshall Field's" pin-on buttons and almost as many leaflets explaining why Chicago's Marshall Field's must return. And Field's supporters wore buttons on State Street in the greatest numbers yet.
FieldsFansChicago.org counted over seven times more people wearing "Forever Marshall Field's" pin-on buttons than those carrying Macy's shopping bags!
The overwhelming reaction from Chicago's young adults?
Clearly they want their Marshall Field's! (Not Macy's!)
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A 100,000+ MILESTONE IN THE MOVEMENT FOR FIELD'S!
√ Over 109,000 Leaflets Distributed on State Street & elsewhere
√ Over 102,000 Buttons & Lapel Stickers distributed world-wide.
√ Wear a free pin-on button in support of Field's!
√ Download, print & distribute leaflets!
The dedicated efforts of supporters of the restoration of Marshall Field's in quality, service and merchandise, as well as name, have recently reached significant milestones.
Since Autumn 2006, over 109,000 leaflets detailing how Marshall Field's can be brought back have been distributed, many in front of the store that was the site of the historic Marshall Field and Company State Street flagship. Detailing how Field's can come back and how consumers can stand up for what they want, the leaflets have made a major impact in our grassroots effort.
Moreover, since Summer 2006, over 102,000 lapel stickers and pin-on buttons declaring support for the return of Chicago's iconic department store have been distributed world-wide. With slogans such as "Forever Marshall Field's", "I WANT MY Marshall Field's" and "Keep it Marshall Field's", the buttons and lapel stickers have helped to keep the importance of the return of Field's in the public consciousness.
FieldsFansChicago.org continues its quest into spring and summer 2008 with new activities, initiatives and campaigns to help bring back Chicago's Marshall Field's better than ever.
Believe: Field's can come back! Help it return!
HERE'S HOW TO GET STARTED...
Spread the word
- Download, print and distribute leaflets
http://www.fieldsfanschicago.org/leaflets.html
Show your loyalty to Marshall Field's
- Wear one of our pin-on Buttons.
http://www.fieldsfanschicago.org/buttons.html
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HERE'S HOW TO HELP:
IF YOU SEE SOMETHING, WRITE SOMETHING!
Today, Macy's, Inc. released their first quarter 2008 results: same store sales at all 800-plus Macy's stores collectively declined 2.6%.
While the challenged economy is clearly part of the current sales equation at most any national retail establishment, we know that the loss of Field's is a huge reason people are not shopping Macy's, especially here in Chicago.
People need to be reminded that even in the current tough economy, these former Marshall Field's locations have slipped even more because they are no longer that special, unique store and they can only be brought back up by being restored as Marshall Field's stores. When Macy's inevitably fails in the Chicago area, we don't want it to be glossed over as if it was simply about sales figures--it's also about the loss of Marshall Field's.
All Field's supporters are asked to respond to ANY report by television, newspaper or web-based news media about Macy's and Marshall Field's, it is essential to respond--even if you think the story is favorable towards the return of Field's.
Please let newspapers, television, radio, web media and public officials know that both the public and the private good is best served when Marshall Field's is restored to 111 North State Street and elsewhere.
It is of special note that Macy's has suspended monthly sales reports in an attempt to reduce media attention to their troubles. As such, it is especially important that you respond to coverage like today's first quarter 2008 results.
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.
* 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.
These additional suggestions are made for responding to media reports on the internet:
* Often, there are comment sections at the end of news articles on the web. Be sure to offer your comments in these forums.
* Be sure to offer a copy of your comments to editor or webmaster of these same sites. This is especially important if the web site is a electronic version of a print publication.
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DONATE BUTTONS, LEAFLETS & MORE
We are totally committed to continuing our efforts. People have come forward in amazing ways to help us, including the donation of leaflets, great pin-on buttons, and more.
Help support us by paying to print up a batch of buttons or leaflets. We need your help to pay for distributing these items which inspire others to continue supporting the return of Marshall Field's. Your financial help grows support for the return of Field's.
If you can donate buttons or leaflets, please email Support@FieldsFansChicago.org. Alternatively, you can mail checks to our address (please email us) or send money via PayPal to Support@FieldsFansChicago.org
All contributions are solely channeled to support our program of leaflets, buttons, and ads. Help finance our continuing efforts to bring back Field's!
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CONTINUE TO BOYCOTT MACY'S
Spend not one red-cent, not even for a single Frango mint, at Macy's. Be sure tell your family friends that under no circumstances would you want a gift or gift card from Macy's or its Bloomingdale's stores until Field's is brought back in quality and service as well as name.
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STAY IN TOUCH VIA THE FIELDSFANSCHICAGO.ORG BLOG
The FieldsFansChicago.org blog is a place for Field's Fans to talk about Marshall Field's and what it means to them. Stop on by to share thoughts, comments, news and rumors. The URL is http://www.fieldsfanschicago.org/blog
-------------------------------------------------------
OTHER WAYS YOU CAN HELP
There are numerous other ways you can help bring back Field's. These are just a few more.
* Don't shop at Macy's or Bloomingdale's until Field's is brought back.
* Remind your family and friends that you do not under any circumstances want a gift or gift card from Macy's or Bloomingdale's.
* Forward this e-newsletter along to other family and friends.
* Participate in upcoming leafleting sessions, protests, and other activities planned as the year progresses. Email support@fieldsfanschicago.org
* Donate to fieldsfanschicago.org in support of our program of leaflets, buttons, bumper stickers, and more. Contact support@fieldsfanschicago.org
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SPECIAL REGARDS
Special regards to everyone who has helped this cause in every way.
Marshall Field's CAN come back. Your ongoing support and dedication is what enables our progress to continue. Macy's will fail regardless because of its own mistakes. Yet it is the work of we Field's Fans that reminds key business and civic leaders that that these stores can be an overwhelming success again as Marshall Fields.
There are examples of stores and brands returning even better than before: just a few examples include the Ford Taurus; Chrysler as an independent automobile brand; Lucky grocery stores' return to California after seven years; and the resurgence of AT&T Wireless after Cingular.
Our efforts are so essential because it gives immense consciousness to the once and future Chicago institution, Marshall Field's.
Remember, your efforts to help bring back Field's are greatly appreciated, respected and admired. You are helping to make history!
-------------------------------------------------------
TO UNSUBSCRIBE
Send email to unsubscribe@fieldsfanschicago.org
Please include the email address you wish unsubscribed if it is not the one you are sending the request from.
-------------------------------------------------------
END OF NEWSLETTER #14
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Date: Wed, May 14, 2008 2:44 pm, CT
Posted by: gle
I just walked through Messy's on my lunch hour (it's much faster than outside where there is more foot traffic).
I was greeted by "My Way" by Frank Sinatra blaring over the loudspeaker, as if it was strategically planned to go along with the quarterly excuse reports--"Regrets, I've had a few, but then again, too few to mention." I'm surprised Lundgren didn't try to sing it himself. It could be his theme song.
Date: Wed, May 14, 2008 2:02 pm, CT
Posted by: Rich W
As M*cy's sugarcoats its latest quarterly loss, I have envisioned their next campaign to grow sales: an updated "Bringing the Stars Together" commercial with a new slew of calam-celebr-ities such as R Kelly, Roger Clemens, Amy Winehouse, Star Jones (Star Jones can really bring the stars together for M*cy's) but the commercial ends with Rosie O'Donnell sneaking up behind a gawking Donald Trump and pulling off his toupee as everyone laughs, and then Martha Stewart shows up to fix it up and place it immaculately back on his head. That ending is a lot funnier than Jessica Simpson accidentally pulling the plug on the Christmas tree! As an update, they can always revise the ending to be a Star Jones vs. Rosie vs. Barbara Walters gang fight. Ah, the magic of M*cy's!
Date: Wed, May 14, 2008 8:53 am, CT
Posted by: gle
Here is the local coverage of Messy's quarterly results:
The "Tribune:"
"Macy's reports loss on weak sales, restructuring"
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/sns-ap-earns-macys,0,3798957.story
The "Sun-Times" by Associated Press:
"Macy's reports loss on weak sales, restructuring"
http://www.suntimes.com/business/earnings/948884,macys051408.article
The usual excuses are lame excuses.
Date: Wed, May 14, 2008 8:37 am, CT
Posted by: Judy Marth
Hope this link works....from Yahoo! regarding Messy's newest losses. Management, as always, has an explanation, although a delusional one....
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080514/ap_on_bi_ge/earns_macy_s;_ylt=AoZnobZcxhiy49Hbehsj5las0NUE
Judy
Date: Wed, May 14, 2008 8:35 am, CT
Posted by: drew
George Miller's excellent post summarized the major problem with department stores: the "bean counters" pressed for the elimination of categories that didn't meet a certain level of profitability. Perhaps certain categories weren't as profitable, but they DID draw shoppers who might also select other items. As Mr Miller mentioned, department stores today are mostly clothing and gifts; in difficult economic times, people are buying these items in the same place they purchase their essentials.
Boscov's is a family-owned chain based in PA. In addition to the standard department store fare, Boscov's has RETAINED candy, appliances, electronics, toys, yard and garden departments. Their stores are more "exciting" than the predictable sameness of macy*mart. Perhaps these departments aren't as profitable as clothing and cosmetics, but they do set Boscov's apart as a destination. Their stores in the Pittsburgh area have been doing well since former Kaufmann's shoppers have abandoned macy*mart.
Perhaps if Field's, Kaufmann's, Filene's, Foley's, Rich's were still around offering a unique shopping experience and a wide variety of merchandise suited to their respective markets, consumers would support these stores. I agree with Mr Miller that the traditional department stores began their downhill slide when "bean counters" replaced merchants.
Date: Wed, May 14, 2008 7:12 am, CT
Posted by: Field's Fan
Macy's reported a first quarter loss today.
Here are links to several articles with the information as well as Macy's official press release. Be sure to spread the word about how it didn't have to be this bad even in this economy--if only Macy's had brought back Field's.
http://www.businesswire.com/portal/site/google/?ndmViewId=news_view&newsId=20080514005319&newsLang=en
http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/feedarticle/7516396
http://www.diamonds.net/news/NewsItem.aspx?ArticleID=21650
http://www.streetinsider.com/Earnings/Macys+(M)+Reports+In-Line+Q1+Loss+of+$0.02%3B+Reaffirms/3646151.html
Date: Wed, May 14, 2008 12:23 am, CT
Posted by: L. Grand
In very hopeful anticipation of Field's likely return, I am focusing very heavily on Field's business culture and employee training - anything that might assist THE SAVVY RETAILER we've been hoping will come along to bring back our beloved Marshall Field's!
On my weblog, I have posted several blogs focusing on these aspects and in the coming days and weeks will be posting several more. I am fortunate to know quite a few employees, both former and current, and thus have in my possession a good deal of material from Marshall Field's. It's like having a behind-the-scenes view! How neat!
Recent posts include:
"Marshall Field's Employees Earned Their Stripes"
"Field's Express - Going the Extra Mile" and
"Marshall Field's Quotes"
Please, someone wise and good and honest - BRING BACK MARSHALL FIELD'S!
http://www.matchlessmarshallfields.blogspot.com
Very Marshall Fieldingly Yours,
L. Grand
Date: Tues, May 13, 2008 3:12 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
An AP earnings preview predicts Macy's will post a loss for the first quarter.
The following are some links to articles that cite this AP item. Be on the lookout for more and be certain to leave comments where ever such space is provided.
http://www.forbes.com/feeds/ap/2008/05/13/ap5004107.html
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/fn/5776146.html
Date: Tues, May 13, 2008 2:50 pm, CT
Posted by: George Miller
I read with great interest the post about the Marshall Field brand paper towels. When I was in grad school, in the late 1970's, I worked at Field's in Oak Brook in housewares, cleaning supplies, small appliances, lamps, yard and garden, and picture gallery. (Whew! That was a lot of merchandise that I had to learn.)
We did sell the paper towels plus napkins, toilet paper, bar soap, laundry detergent, etc., etc. Of course those were the days when a department store sold a wide variety of things for the home, not just clothing and gift items.
Perhaps that is why the department store industry has done so poorly in recent years--the bean counters have eliminated any department that didn't return a certain percentage. I can see the point, I guess, but there then were fewer and fewer reasons to go to a particular store. Where once one could shop for virtually everything for their home, now it is just clothing. We have certainly lost something.
Of course, in those days merchants looked with pride at the way they could meet their customer's needs--not just with merchandise at phony sale prices!
Date: Mon, May 12, 2008 10:47 pm, CT
Posted by: Hans B
I grew up in Chicago, and was horrified to find out that Fields no longer existed...I was planning a trip back, but will never go there again unless MF&C is restored.
Date: Mon, May 12, 2008 8:34 pm, CT
Posted by: PM
I am so glad there are others who feel as I do. I LOVED MarshallB Fields, and I feel that Macy's has disrespected Chicago's historic shopping history by placing their bargin stores here in our beautiful city.
Date: Mon, May 12, 2008 7:56 pm, CT
Posted by: Richard in Houston
Hello Field's fans! If a buyer comes forward for Field's,I hope they will entertain the idea of bringing them back to Houston. We miss Field's since they pulled out over a decade ago. Lord & Taylor also pulled out about the same time. I wish they would return as well.
I took my 8th grader shopping with my wife yesterday for a formal for her 8th grade dance. In The Woodlands, we have Dillard's, Penney's, Sears, White House/Black Market, BCBG, Cache and other boutiques. She mentioned her friends had gotten some formals "dirt cheap" at Macy's. I told her that is because their clothes are cheap. My, how I miss Foley's!!! It is like a hole at the end of the mall where they were. I totally ignore them as do many, many Houstonians. It is sad to see how a icon of Houston has been reduced to a bargain basement trash bin. Marshall's and TJ Maxx have more designers than Macy's!!
I wish Macy's would be taken over and dismantled - returning not only Field's, but the other fine regional stores they trashed. Brand does have equity to customers. Take a look at foleysofcourse in yahoo groups. I have alot of links to old department store commercials there. Keep up the fight!! The whole nation is watching you!
Date: Mon, May 12, 2008 6:47 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
The letter in today's Tribune reminded me of a very powerful image voiced by Macy's CFO Karen Houget.
In Sandra Jones' article from a couple of weeks ago where the new head of the former Field's stores was introduced, Houget says he is trading in his New York Giants cap for a Chicago Bears cap.
With that statement, Ms. Houget clearly demonstrated that Macy's upper management still doesn't understand Chicago or Marshall Field's. They think simply switching hats will make a New Yorker a Chicagoan who understands and loves Chicago. They seem to have thought the switch from Field's to Macy's would be just as easy.
Anyone who truly understands Chicago knows that the only way to get these stores back on track is return them to Field's in service and quality as well as name. That's because Field's is synonymous with Chicago. It's not as easy as changing a hat or a sign. Chicagoans know the difference.
Date: Mon, May 12, 2008 8:47 am, CT
Posted by: gle
What a great start to the week--another pro-Field's letter in the "Tribune's" "Voice of the People."
"Macy's, bing back Marshall Field's"
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/chi-0512ledelettermay12,0,6089442.story
It's essential that all supporters of the return of Marshall Field's followup with their own 'Letters to the Editor". You can respond in the associated on-line forums but the Letters to the Editor have far reaching impact that also impresses to the editorial board how important this issue continues to be.
Letters should be promptly emailed to 'ctc-TribLetter@tribune.com'
Date: Mon, May 12, 2008 8:08 am, CT
Posted by: Jack K
The lead entry below the editorial cartoon in this morning's Tribune is an excellent letter from Marianne Nathan regarding Bringing Back Marshall Fields. In a few words, Macyization is NOT WORKING, never has and NEVER WILL! A new executive will be like Capt. Smith on the Titanic. The Damage is done, perhaps unseen because all of the people who have moved to other stores are not as vocal and visible as the folks who even know about this blog and web site.
There is one obvious but extremely bitter pill for Terry Lundergan to swallow, and that is Chicago will not ever accept Macy's in Name, Service or Quality. We need a quality full service department store back. Macy's does not cut it. If someone wants cheap merchandise, they can go to Wal Mart. You KNOW what you are getting there, and it serves an important market with a good price point. No one is going to pay premium prices for low quality merchandise, no matter who's name is on the label.
Perhaps another thing is that if Terry capitulates here, other communities in Florida (Burdines), California (Magnin, May) will DEMAND their brand and quality back. Bye Bye national strategy. Hmmmmm??
Hopefully the Macy stockholders will see the light and turn off
Terry (I have a better idea) Lundergan and send him packing. The new exec coming here in Chicago should look at this as a terminal assignment, his failure in inevitable.
Forever Marshall Fields !!!!!!
JACK
Date: Sun, May 11, 2008 9:28 pm, CT
Posted by: JasonM
I walked past the former LaSalle Bank building and I couldn't help but appreciate the fact that the Field's building still has the plaques and clocks. I'm very thankful that Roger Ebert and the City landmarked the building prior to the "conversion" because having seen the former LaSalle Bank building... I could only image how Macy's would have taken away every single piece of Marshall Field's. If I never came to Chicago I would not know that the BofA building replaced an 80-year old Chicago bank.
Bring back Field's - in name, quality, and service!
Date: Sun, May 11, 2008 5:21 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
In response to LiMack's post, the real estate and financial worlds have a very powerful and concise way of summing it all up:
"the highest and best use".
"The highest and best use" of 111 N. State as well as Old Orchard, Water Tower, Oak Brook, Woodfield... is operating these stores as Marshall Field's in quality and service as well as name.
By far, the highest and best use. Amen.
Date: Sun, May 11, 2008 11:40 am, CT
Posted by: LiMack
It's Mother's Day 2008. For years and years moms across Chicagoland received gifts--sometimes big ones, or sometimes small token ones, purchased for them from Marshall Field's and presented with pride and love. That the subject of Marshall Field's came up again today at a large multi-generational brunch honoring several moms in my family is testament to the role Marshall Field's played in our lives and in the life of our city. And, it is proof that Marshall Field's is not being forgotten despite Macy's best efforts to eradicate our wonderful Field's. Future generations equally deserved to have Field's included as part of their unique Chicago traditions.
This is an important fact for any other merchant or company who may be contemplating an offer to buy out some of troubled Macy's "real estate" in the Chicago area and to restore the Marshall Field's brand, quality merchandise, and service (especially to State Street). The power of the Field's brand and loyalty to it is still very strong, and the unwillingness of Chicagoans and tourists to accept Macy's as a substitute is ALSO still very strong. Marshall Field's CAN be successfully and profitably brought back, and needs to be-----soon.
Date: Sat, May 10, 2008 9:23 am, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
As Alan alludes to below, Sandra Jones' weekly "Inside Retailing" column reports on Macy's appointment of Daniel Edelman of Macy's West to president of international retail development.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-sat-retail-notebook-0509-may10,0,6113478.story
I'm sure I'm far from alone in thinking who could care less after what they did to Field's; moreover, after what Macy's did to Field's, it's no longer much of stretch to wonder if Macy's will try and convert stores on the level of Harrod's or KaDeWe to Macy's. Yes, that would be nuts, but customers and analysts alike said the same about Field's.
s.
Date: Sat, May 10, 2008 9:22 am, CT
Posted by: Alan
I see that Macy's is looking to go overseas to shore up its declining sales in the US. Perhaps they should consider selling their North division to a buyer who'll bring back Field's in order to finance it.
Date: Sat, May 10, 2008 12:49 am, CT
Posted by: JasonM
Bank of America's OVER EMPHASIS on "being Chicago" in its new ad campaign is a direct result of the horrors of Macy's. You can tell that BofA is spending every dime trying to say that it is as "Chicago as it Gets." That can't be done through advertising... that can only be done through decades and decades of service that LaSalle bank provided.
"As Chicago as it Gets" - Marshall Field's
We want you back Field's! Sooner rather than later.
Date: Fri, May 9, 2008 9:01 pm, CT
Posted by: Mike M
Great work at Looptopia this past weekend. A friend of mine said, "Oh, and there were Fields Fans leafleting outside of Marshall Field's.
There were thousands more like my friend who noticed that the movement to bring back Field's is still going strong!
Date: Fri, May 9, 2008 9:31 am, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
After reading gle's post, it also made me think of how April monthly sales reports came out yesterday--but Macy's is hiding those and not releasing anything but quarterly reports.
Whenever you see an article about April sales reports for Bon-Ton (Carson's), Saks, Nordstrom, etc., be sure to write the author, the letters to the editor section and any area for reader comments after the article and remind folks how Macy's is simply hiding how poorly it is doing and and how getting rid of Field's was a mistake.
Date: Fri, May 9, 2008 9:04 am, CT
Posted by: gle
From today's "Tribune:"
Article "Bargain hunting becomes the rule of the day" by Sandra M. Jones and Deanese Williams-Harris
The article mentions a customer who, "... used to shop at Macy's but now only goes to the department store when there are "great sales."
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-fri-april-retail-sales-may09,0,6444752.story
No other reason to shop at Messy's except bargains. Doesn't look good for this star-studded, eco-friendly business-philanthropy image Messy's thinks they have.
Field's obviously gave customers much more to shop for.
Letters should be sent to ctc-TribLetter@tribune.com, smjones@tribune.com, and dawilliams@tribune.com
In the Stock Quotes (enter symbol M to get Macy's): "Edelman, Harrison Named to New Positions at Macy's, Inc."
http://markets.chicagotribune.com/custom/tribune-interactive/html-story.asp?symb=M&siteid=chicagotribune&guid={EC052304-4DC6-46DB-AF43-91B003DB0858}
Date: Fri, May 9, 2008 8:59 am, CT
Posted by: Margaret W, Evanston
Thank you for my Forever Marshall Field's button!
I wore mine on the L today and three different people remarked how much they miss Field's!
Date: Thurs, May 8, 2008 4:25 pm, CT
Posted by: Ruth K via Jim McKay
A Field's supporter discovered a case of "Marshall Field's" branded paper towels that she is offering for sale. She would like to move these quickly by this weekend--please contact her via my email at jjmckay@fieldsfanschicago.org
_______________________________
My husband and I recently returned from Cleveland where we spent a week helping his 86 year-old aunt sort through about 60 years of collections in preparation to sell her home. We came upon a case of 30 rolls of paper towels, in perfect condition, with the Marshall Field's logo on the packaging! His aunt told us that she had purchased them from Halle Brothers, a carriage trade department store in downtown Cleveland. As many of you know, Field's owned Halles and thus the Fields name-branded paper towels. They closed Halles years ago, so these paper towels have been around for a while!
We brought the paper towels home thinking we'd post them on ebay for her, but I thought I'd contact you first to determine if you think there would be any interest from anyone in your group. She's not looking to make a fortune, and I'd like them out of my basement...please let me know if you know anyone who might want to take them off ofB our hands. I'd love to be able to send her a bit of cash and a more importantly a good story about where they ended up!
Thank you for your help.
Ruth K.
Date: Thurs, May 8, 2008 9:24 am, CT
Posted by: gle
I AM DELIGHTED TO READ ABOUT THE GREAT RESPONSE TO FIELD'S FANS AT LOOPTOPIA! WE ARE STILL MAKING A DIFFERENCE!
Another attempt by Messy's to look good--when they could look and BE GREAT if they simply brough back Marshall Field's in quality and service as well as name:
>From the "Tribune"--"Chicago United back plan to help fund minority-owned businesses."
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-thu-chicago-united-may08,0,2415934.story
I don't know where Messy's expects to get the money to fund any image-building projects. It certainly won't be from retail sales.
Date: Thurs, May 8, 2008 7:22 am, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
In regards to the previous post, the Wall Street Journal does seem to say that; however, other sources indicate those reports are coming next Wednesday, May 14.
Thanks for posting.
Jim
Date: Wed, May 7, 2008 10:21 pm, CT
Posted by: delia
According to today's Wall Street Journal, Macy's will release quarterly sales results tomorrow.
Date: Wed, May 7, 2008 9:51 pm, CT
Posted by: Daniel W. Harcourt II
Fieldsfans,
I want to continue to encourage Fieldsfans who are tired of being ignored by Macy's to purchase Macy's stock-ticker symbol 'M'. Last year at this time, Macy's stock was trading at over $45.00. Today, May 7, 2008, it closed at $24.73. The lowest price it has dropped down to is nearly $20.00 over the course of the past year. This represents almost a 50% drop in the value of the stock in a year's time. I can guarantee that shareholders will be more open to considering comments from outraged Fieldsfans who, out of the frustration of being ignored, purchased stock in Macy's in order to speak out at the annual meeting for the return of Marshall Fields. By being a stock owner, it also allows you to withold your vote for any member of the board-namely Terry Lundgren himself.
As mentioned in my earlier post, I encourage all Fieldsfans who are stockholders to specifically withhold your vote for Terry Lundgren on your proxy statements. After doing so, please send a letter directly to Mr. Terry Lundgren-as a STOCKHOLDER-telling him that you are part of the group of people who withheld your vote for him. Let him know that you withheld your vote because you feel that you are being ingored in your requests to have Marshall Fields returned to Chicago. Your letter CAN NOT be ingored if you send it to him as a STOCKHOLDER because as a stockholder you are an owner of the company. In essence, you are one of his bosses. The more letters received by Macy's by STOCKHOLDERS wanting the return of Marshall Fields, the harder it will be for Mr. Lundgren to continue to ignore us.
I want my Marshall Fields! Fields is Chicago! Forever Marshall Fields!
Daniel W. Harcourt II
Schaumburg, IL
Date: Wed, May 7, 2008 2:54 pm, CT
Posted by: Rudy Treece - Metro Grand Rapids MI
I recently shared some sincere and heartfelt recollections of my Marshall Field & Company experiences. In researching one of my heretofore favorite parts of Chicago, I came across the following text in Wikipedia that is part of the larger Marshall Field's history. As a person of African-descent who unabashedly loved and supported Marshall Field's, after reading the truth of its past, I must say that I feel like a fool for my misplaced love and that what is happening now with Macy's may truly be a classic case of the roosters coming home to roost:
" . . . . Since the early twentieth century, Field's clientC le consisted of white middle to upper class people. Unlike other Chicago department stores, Field's did not advertise in the ethnic and one-cent newspapers. The high prices deterred the working-class from the store or kept their patronage to a minimum. Amongst African-Americans, Field's was known as one of the least-inviting department stores. Black Chicagoans were often denied service or at the very least steered to the close-out department in the basement. One white reporter acknowledged in 1929, 'Marshall Field's... are emphatic upon the point that they do not wish Colored patronage. One seldom finds a Colored person in the store, and never have I seen one on the upper floors.... Occasionally, I have run across a Colored woman or two in the basement, but even there they are given scant attention' . . . . "
Ironically, though now I should be happy with this glaring example of going around coming around, I am still deeply sad that a part of my beloved Chicago has been washed over with the gaudiness of New York. I guess that truly shows how important Field's was that a person (albeit GROSSLY forgiving or just crazy) can be a descendent of those that were marginalized by Marshall Field's and still feel saddened by its loss. GO FIGURE THE COMPLEXITY THAT IS MAN AND HIS RELATIONSHIP WITH MARSHALL FIELD'S . . . .
Date: Wed, May 7, 2008 5:48 am, CT
Posted by: Mitch
The original name for the La Salle Bank Building was "The Field Building." What a coincidence.
As to why new owners have to paint things red is they think they'll get noticed. However, except when used in a Yuletide seasonal context, red insights anger.
Regards to all,
Mitch
Date: Wed, May 7, 2008 1:13 am, CT
Posted by: David Parris
Ironically, today as I passed the Water Tower macy's, former Marshall Field's, enroute on the #147 bus to work, I saw the huge artsy fly ornament they have hanging above their entrance. Is it artistic? Yes! It's even well-placed. Is it a vivid reminder of the fruit fly infestation that closed our former beloved State Street, former Marshall Field's turned macy's food service...YES!!! Tragically hilararious and ironic. Now if they could only connect to the community on a POSITIVE note....God help us all!
-David
Date: Tues, May 6, 2008 10:12 pm, CT
Posted by: Mike M
Great work on Friday evening, Field's Fans! It's really telling that Macy's closed their story early at midnight this year rather than staying open into the wee hours of the morning like last year.
Date: Tues, May 6, 2008 9:46 pm, CT
Posted by: Mary Anderson Harrison
My mother recently gave me a beautiful birthday gift that she had originally purchased at Field's in the 40's. Here is an excerpt from the letter she wrote to me- anyone who loves Field's will be able to relate. . .
"The floor at Marshall Field's that had housewares was a fascinating place with china, cooking utensils and linens to a degree and variety that one didn't think possible. The part of it that always fascinated me most was a glass-walled area on the Wabash Avenue side of the building. It was the crystal department and it was magic! The arrangements and the lighting seemed to highlight the shapes and clarity of each crystal piece. It was a quiet room and seemed very sophisticated. When I was in high school, a trip to Field's was not complete without a visit to the crystal room.
During my first year at college, I discovered I could actually buy something from that room! I was working and had a little money. My parents' wedding anniversary was approaching and I had found the perfect gift: a creamer and sugar bowl of Steuben glass. They cost $15 each, and I had to buy them one at a time to keep within my budget. Mother enjoyed them, I enjoyed them and I hope you will, too."
And I will enjoy them - not just because they came from my mother - but because they came from Marshall Field's!!!!
I haven't lived in Chicago for years - I still miss my Fields! Keep up the good fight!!!
Date: Tues, May 6, 2008 7:35 pm, CT
Posted by: Pat R
Thank you for the buttons!
Give me back my Marshall Field's!!!!!
Date: Tues, May 6, 2008 7:21 pm, CT
Posted by: Daniel W. Harcourt II
Just a reminder to Fieldsfans who are also Macy's shareholders:
You can send a clear message by voting your proxy 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 Field's, I'll take away my vote for him to be my Board of Directors.
Daniel W. Harcourt II
Schaumburg, IL
Date: Tues, May 6, 2008 6:20 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Some additional comments about the overwhelmingly positive response to the message of FieldsFansChicago.org during last Friday evening's Looptopia.
It was really amazing to reconnect with so many supporters from the past couple of years. There was the gentleman who still lives across the street from Macy's and was at the city hearing concerning the installation of 30' long by 6' high Macy's signs on two elevations of the store; there were those who were there on 9/9/2006, that very sad day Field's was officially converted to Macy's, as well as those who were there for our subsequent protest rallies including 9/9/2007; there were those who came from out of town for Looptopia and are still in disbelief that Field's has gone; there was the couple from California (another one) who praised all of our efforts since they have Macy's back home and Field's was a big reason that they would visit Chicago; there were more than a few who inintiated a conversation with us by saying, "We were just talking about this..."; and then there were those who said, " I haven't stepped foot in the store since the conversion" or "I refuse to buy anything there (at Macy's)..."
It goes on and on.
They were very glad to see us out there and proud to proclaim that they want their Marshall Field's!
Thanks to all who helped make it happen!
Jim
Date: Tues, May 6, 2008 5:32 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim
Regarding the conversion of LaSalle Bank into Bank of America, the following is a variation on something I posted two months ago here on March 7, 2008:
"...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--as we do the same--it is also important that we collectively remain focussed here on our primary goal of the return of Field's. Not everyone who supports the return of Field's has similar views of LaSalle (although I sure notice a lot who do). At the same time, this issue has also helped to bring new and heightened awareness of the goal to bring back Field's.
With that all in mind and in the name of unity, we focus on these other issues like LaSalle Bnak, 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: Tues, May 6, 2008 8:08 pm, CT
Posted by: mg
Just wanted to say that my five year old goes around pointing out Macy's Signs and ads whenever she's sees them and says, "I hate that place Mommy, don't you hate that place?" "They got rid of your favorite store Mommy, didn't they, Marshall Field's right?" Anyone nearby she'll tell 'em, "My Mommy hates that place" or loudly she'll say "Boo Macy's...we hate Macy's" She gets all worked up. Brand recognition, yes, but not in a good way.
Date: Tues, May 6, 2008 10:19 pm, CT
Posted by: Judy Marth
Wow - I just read the heartwarming comments about LaSalle Bank! As a 27 year LaSalle employee, my heart broke when I had to walk in the building now displaying a new name. I can't even bring myself to say it! Just like I can't even bring myself to say "m*cy's"! For those of us loyal LaSalle employees left here, it was definitely a "Black Monday". I trully feel like an orphan without two of the most wonderful names Chicago has every known - Marshall Field's and LaSalle Bank. I have my "Forever Marshall Field's" button and I now have a wristband that says "Legacy LaSalle". I wear them both with great pride (yes, I wear the wristband to work!). The LaSalle name as we know it will never come back - let's not let that happen to Marshall Field's!!
Bring back Marshall Field's!!!!!!!!
Judy
Date: Mon, May 5, 2008 8:08 pm, CT
Posted by: Darrin Paden
I just have a question. Did marshall fields ever have coupons or any of that sort?
One Response:
Marshall Field's occassionally had coupons prior to their 2004 acquisition by May Department Stores. May Department Stores relied significantly more on coupons to drive business at their other department stores such as Famous-Barr, Robinson-May, Foley's, etc. and they dramatically increased the number of coupons in Field's ads during the less than 20 months that they owned Chicago's iconic store. Although Macy's claims otherwise, the vast majority of Field's shoppers asert they never needed coupons to be drawn to shop at Field's.
Date: Mon, May 5, 2008 7:36 pm, CT
Posted by: LiMack
Today I took several boxes of used clothing to donate to an organization that runs a resale store. They are located in the NW suburbs and do superb work to support women and children in crisis. I was wearing my Fields Forever button on my jacket and the volunteer at the counter noticed it, and commented.
"Yeah", I said, "I still miss Marshall Field's. Macy's just doesn't do it for me. How about you?"
"Well, I really don't think Macy's is doing all that well", the volunteer confided to me in a near whisper. "People used to bring in lots of their donated items in those nice paper Field's bags all the time, but now we RARELY see Macy's shopping bags when the donations come in."
Date: Mon, May 5, 2008 6:15 pm, CT
Posted by: Jeff W.
This morning, May 5th, I decided to go over to the 135 S. LaSalle Building to see what there was to see. As I walked west along Monroe Street I noticed that the LaSalle Street Theatre is bedecked with Jersey Boys bunting covering over the LaSalle Bank Theatre name on the front and the sides. I could see that it was held down with rope. My guess is that the theater will be rededicated as the B of A Theatre in the near future, and I would not be at surprised if certain opportunistic politicians will be there gladhanding the erradication of another Chicago based name from the view of its citizenry. When I got to Monroe and Clark, I walked south on Clark and immediately noticed brand new nameplates on the Clark Street entrance to the former LaSalle Bank which now read BANK OF AMERICA, which replaced plates reading LA SALLE BANK. I imagined to myself how MACY'S plates would look on 111 N. State where the MARSHALL FIELD AND COMPANY plates still stand adamantly. I can just imagine how Lundgreed would have so much loved to melt down those Marshall Field nameplates, but alas, he is denied that sadistic thrill.
As I walked west along Adams Street, I noticed a sign above the mid-block entrance to the former LaSalle Bank Building that now reads BANK OF AMERICA BUILDING. It looked as though it had always been there. Then as I walked around the building along Adams and LaSalle there were huge BANK OF AMERICA signs where LaSALLE BANK signs had been. You never would have known that LaSALLE BANK had ever existed. I suppose the thing that made me most ill was the fact that as I walked by the Bank windows and looked inside, everything that had been painted GREEN is now painted RED! Why is it that the out of town carpetbaggers must always paint everything RED? And of course the LaSALLE nameplates on the LaSalle Street side were also replaced with the ugly Bank of America name. To me, any bank who has the audacity to call itself the Bank of AMERICA is not a bank for me. It's too bad that the LaSalle name could not have been retained, but then again, Bon-Ton retained the name of Carson's as the Bank of Montreal retained the name of Harris. Perhaps the Macy's crowd will flock to their local Bank of America branch. Everything is bright RED.
Farewell to another Chicago icon.
Date: Mon, May 5, 2008 5:46 pm, CT
Posted by: Mary Anne
Today I was reading on-line articles about the Chicago Children's Musuem, the conversion of LaSalle Bank to Bank of America, the latest with Wrigley Field and a potential name change
and Looptopia 2008. The followup forum discussions all mentioned this site and what its members are doing to bring back Marshall Field and Company. You guys are making a difference in Chicago!
Date: Mon, May 5, 2008 4:49 pm, CT
Posted by: Amy Meadows
A message from Amy Meadows, former Window Display manager for Marshall Field's/Macy's:
Just a quick note to thank the Field's Fans community for the supportive posts after my job elimination in January.
Suffice it to say, I was very fortunate for a very long time. To have one's dream job is rare--to have had that job for 25 years is unheard of. The job was demanding. Creative. Exhausting. Rewarding. I had the privilege of working for and with design professionals that were the best in the business. Many of those that I taught and trained are accomplished designers, visual merchandisers and more. The Window Display staff members that remain at the store are committed professionals that work hard to create fun, business-driving windows, regardless of the nameplate. I wish the team the best of luck as they navigate both trends and transition over the next several months.
Thank you again for your support.
Amy
Date: Mon, May 5, 2008 3:58 pm, CT
Posted by: Joe D
Hello Everyone!
It's funny how Macy's is determined to pull off this "My Macy's" strategy. JCPenney centralized it's buying years ago. They don't have a problem stocking their stores with the appropriate merchandise. Ironically, that had HUGE inventory problems when their buyers were decentralized.
I read somewhere that Nordstrom's buyers are all based in Seattle. Is this true? They seem to be doing just fine.
This My Macy's stuff is just a bunch of fluff.
Date: Mon, May 5, 2008 2:59 pm, CT
Posted by: gle
"Crain's Chicago Business" has a letter from a Field's Fan in it's May 5 print edition, Opinion page 18. This makes the 3rd week in a row Crain's has carried pro-Field's letters.
Comments can be sent to letters@chicagobusiness.com or opinion@chicagobusiness.com
Date: Mon, May 5, 2008 1:19 pm, CT
Posted by: Kurt Gerhardt
For the sake of their shareholders, Macy's/Federated ought to seek a buyer for at least the State Street store who realizes the value to Chicago of restoring the building and the Field's name. Certainly it would be an excellent Loop location for branches of Michigan Avenue retailers to offer their merchandise, as well as a full range world-class department store. Many who would do a little shopping after work don't feel like a trek to Mich Ave. and tourists need a destination shopping experience that isn't now offered.
Remember Field's apple pie with cheddar cheese?
Date: Sun, May 4, 2008 9:02 pm, CT
Posted by: Lee
My fiance and I went shopping for a new bedroom set this weekend.
We would have shopped at Field's. But Macy's is no way to shop.
We shopped Harlem Furniture and the Bedding Experts before settling on a delightful set up from Carson's.
Macy's will never see any of my money until they bring back Field's. And it better not be just a name change. It has to be everything about Field's.
Date: Sun, May 4, 2008 4:13 pm, CT
Posted by: L. Grand
There is an article online from the Deseret News, Salt Lake City, Utah concerning the "My Macy's" strategy and a place to leave comments without having to register:
http://deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,695275278,00.html
Though I could opt not to take the opportunity to say so, I do choose to ask: Does the "My Macy's" sound as ridiculous to others as it does to me? It is as distasteful to me as the sound of having to say "McChicken" when ordering at McDonald's. Goofy. Of course I've come to loathe the sound of Macy's name alone, aside from its inclusion in this cheezy phrase. Marshall Field's, on the other hand, sounds SO good.
L. Grand
Date: Sun, May 4, 2008 11:39 am, CT
Posted by: Tom
This weekend marks the official end of almost 70 years of La Salle Bank. La Salle has a Chicago connection. In 1940, the Field family was already out of the day to day operations of the department store, although they still owned some stock. By then, Marshall Field III purchased National Builders Bank of Chicago, changed its name to LaSalle National Bank and built it into banking and civic benefactor it was in Chicago for so many years.
La Salle Bank was another community asset made indirectly possible by the merchant Marshall Field.
Let's honor that.
Date: Sat, May 3, 2008 7:05 pm, CT
Posted by: Louise B., Northfield
Thank you for the buttons last night on State Street!
The street was alive with a sea of people wearing Marshall Field's Forever pins!
Date: Sat, May 3, 2008 2:44 pm, CT
Posted by: D.H.
The Macy's annual report touts that the Bloomindale's and Macy's flagships as international draws bringing in mega-bucks from tourists abroad.
Marshall Field's, especially its flagship on State Street, was also its equal if not greater as a tourist draw.
Now that there are 800 Macy's across the US including the 34th Street flagship, I'm sure that's not the case.
By replacing Field's with Macy's, Macy's execs have squandered a very valuable asset that could have set it apart in these rough economic times.
Date: Sat, May 3, 2008 8:59 am, CT
Posted by: delia
Karen Houget, Macy's CFO, is quoted in today's Tribune as saying they will not be closing any stores -- at least not in a big way:
"There have been rumors floating at various times over the past couple months that we were about to announce a 100-store closure, a 50-store closure," said Hoguet, speaking at a Lehman Brothers conference in New York earlier this week. "It's not going to happen."
This is despite the fact that Home Depot and Starbucks are doing relatively well when compared with Macy's, IMHO. And those chains are closing underperforming stores. Sounds to me like they are afraid to do any necessary closures lest they let on how badly they are doing.
It's like the dysfuctional person with a lot of problems who puts on a phony smile and says everything is fine. Even those who know nothing about Field's agree that they gotta close some stores. Macy's is in 45 states as well as the "State of Denial".
Date: Sat, May 3, 2008 7:48 am, CT
Posted by: SF in Chicago
This morning's Inside Retailing column has two items of note. One is that Louis Vuitton is opening a shop within Nordstrom's on Michigan Avenue. Didn't they used to sell their items at Field's but then pull out when Macy's took over?
The other item is that Macy's CFO says Macy's will not be closing any stores any time soon, despite rumors to the contrary.
You can leave comments underneath the article which is at:
http://www.topix.net/forum/source/chicago-tribune/T58KFKSAN32OVB7IK
[ Letters to the Editor are also even more important to send and go to 'ctc-TribLetter@tribune.com' and 'smjones@tribune.com' ]
Date: Fri, May 2, 2008 8:44 pm, CT
Posted by: Marshall_Field's_Internet_Shopper
An open letter to Macy's execs:
Dear Executives,
The love and respect for Marshall Field's comes from people of all ages in our family. These stores were so much more successful than the Macy's stores that replaced them: why were they taken away ? Please restore Marshall Field's department stores in every way including full-service,fine quality...and that beautiful Marshall Field's soft and elegant green.
That beautiful Marshall Field's script logo...ohhh how it's missed.
Marshall Field's presence is very much missed on the internet as well. Why are the Marshall Field's Frangos just called Frangos now ? We bought them because they were from Marshall Field's !
Respectful thanks in the Marshall Field's tradition.
Our family in New York and around America know that Marshall Field's is Chicago and the best of America ! We excitingly await the return of Marshall Field's !
Date: Fri, May 2, 2008 5:56 pm, CT
Posted by: drew
The article about the increasing success of Herberger's is yet ANOTHER testament to the absolute failure of macy*fication. After two years of declining sales and pathetic attempts to turn things around, "those wacky folks at macy*s" still don't get it. Spokesperson Jim Sluzewski neglects to address the real issues and solutions. Perhaps regional department stores weren't able to take advantage of "economies of scale," but macy*mart's cookie cutter approach wasn't the answer. The simple solution would have been to merge back office functions, stock all the stores with BASIC merchandise (Jockey undergarments, Kitchen Aid mixers, Nike athletic shoes)--then allow the regionals to customize the other merchandise to their respective market. But NO, let's make them all the same identical bland boring stores, said marketing genius Lundgreed. Once shoppers realize there is no compelling reason to patronize macy*mart, Lunkhead decides to follow another strategy.
In some respects, the macy*mart executives have an impossible job as they try to implement each new ill-devised strategy which is doomed to ultimate failure. How long until the "my macy*s" initiative will be tossed to the curb along with "way to shop" and "the magic of macy*s" and the "celebrity" merchandise and other "exciting" enhancements.
In western PA, The Bon Ton only competed with Kaufmann's at Westmoreland Mall and Washington Crown Centre; other Bon Ton locations were the "better" store in smaller markets such as Johnstown, Indiana, Uniontown, Butler. From what I understand, those two Bon Ton stores are doing extremely well against macy*mart.
Bon Ton was ALWAYS big on customer service, good quality and value. In no way is Bon Ton comparable to Marshall Field's; they are considered a middle to better level store. But they listen to their customers and their stores are neat, well-stocked and offer a wide variety of merchandise at different price points. The stores have even become more upscale since the acquisition of Carson Pirie Scott. The service at Bon Ton has always been excellent--they even offer FREE gift wrapping.
The Bon Ton bought out Elder-Beerman in neighboring WV and OH. These stores are also well-run and pleasant to visit. I would suspect that Bon Ton has become the store of choice for former Kaufmann's shoppers who have abandoned macy*mart.
Date: Fri, May 2, 2008 5:08 pm, CT
Posted by: mds in mt. prospect
At last, Field's fans can rejoice! Mike Devros will be Chicago's savior! I can feel it in my bones. He knows what we want, not like all of those other jamokes they sent here to figure things out! I really have faith that this time things will be different. I mean, come on, this guy is even willing to go so far as to actually "give up his Giants hat and put on a Bears hat because he's so passionate that this is going to make a difference". What more proof of his commitment do you need? Imagine that, a Bear's hat! You don't just go and tell people you're willing to wear a Chicago Bear's hat unless you're serious - real serious. I'm sold! The only thing that would be better is if Mike Devros was willing to give up his company's nameplate and put on a Marshall Field's nameplate and stock those stores with Marshall Field's quality of merchandise and service because he's so passionate that it was going to make a difference. But a New York Macy's exec willing to wear a Bear's hat is almost just as good! Finally! I just hope that he doesn't wear that Bear's hat with an Alfani suit - it would cheapen the look of the hat though I'm sure the colors would probably match.
Date: Fri, May 2, 2008 3:09 pm, CT
Posted by: Scott P
An interesting article about Herberger's attracting some former Dayton's/Marshall Field's customers in Minnesota.
http://www.minnpost.com/stories/2008/05/02/1705/drawing_the_daytons_crowd_herbergers_attracts_disaffected_shoppers
Bring back Marshall Field's!
Date: Fri, May 2, 2008 2:57 pm, CT
Posted by: Mrs. W
Hi All,
It's been awhile since posting and continue to enjoy the many positive comments of everyone's efforts. Today on the WGN's Noonshow with Bob Sirott; he was interviewing a Northwestern University Professor of Marketing; specifically discussing branding. Although they were discussing many Chicagoland based companies,guess which company just kept on coming up again and again in the conversation???
You guessed it, Macy's and their ill-performed execusion of their conversion of Marshall Field's. It couldn't have been more accurate of verifying everyone's acknowledgements here over the last 18 months; that they had made one of the most blundered attempts of rebranding a significant and upscale name like Marshall Field's.
I sent Mr. Sirott a follow-up email thanking him for discussing the topic and reminded him that the re-branding disaster was also due to Macy's complete downgrading of merchandise; substituting Armani with Alphony doesn't cut it for Field customers! Mr. Sirott went as far to say; "Outside of returning the name of Marshall Field's in some way,there wasn't much left that Macy's could try to do to save itself here in the Chicago marketplace".
How true, and Bravo to Mr. Sirott for showing some backbone and standing up to Macy's and their almightly marketing dollar that they waive at so many of the media outlets. He truly "gets it".
Marshall Field's forever,
Mrs. W
Date: Fri, May 2, 2008 2:54 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
BTW:
We're getting ready to meet in a couple of hours at 5:00 pm under the State and Washington clock to pass out 2,000 leaflets and buttons at tonight's Looptopia festivities. Please email me in the next couple of hours if you wish to help and want contact info. Otherwise, just drop on by. The weather has cleared up and the sun has come out a bit.
Someone was kind enough to donate their economic stimulus check to fund tonight's pin-on buttons and leaflets. If buying pins is a stimulus, I guess this is economic acupuncture!
If you are so inclined to spend part of your economic stimulus check by supplying us with buttons or pins, it's more than welcome--it's a huge help!
Jim
Date: Fri, May 2, 2008 2:49 pm, CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
MinnPost.com has a facinating article about how former Dayton's/Field's customers are now moving over to Herberger's, the sister name-plate of Carson's in the Twin Cities. This seems similar to how Carson's has picked up business in the Chicago area since Macy's replaced Field's. The extensive piece featured historical photos of Herberger's, Dayton's, and, of special historical note, our 2006 protest on State Street.
Check it out and note that there is also an opportunity to leave your own comments.
http://www.minnpost.com/stories/comments_stories/?blog_post_id=1705#comments_section
Date: Fri, May 2, 2008 10:04 am, CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels
Jimmy Gimbels presents as actual phone conversation:
"Gee mom , what you like for Mother's Day."
"Well nothing from Macy's, that is for sure."
You just gotta love my mom! Bless her heart. So let's see a show of hands. Who is not shopping at Macy's for a Mother's Day gift. WOW!
Date: Fri, May 2, 2008 5:32 am, CT
Posted by: A, Perkins
BROKEN LINK
Although I triple checked the link I posted for the video of the worst CEOs in America, the link has been changed today.
If you would like ABC News and Forbes Magazine to know who you think is the worst CEO in America, leave your comments at this link:
http://video.search.yahoo.com/video/play?p=ceo+worst&ei=UTF-8&fr2=tab-news&tnr=21&x=wrt&vi
Date: Thurs, May 1, 2008 8:42 pm, CT
Posted by: Alex K
Does anyone know who actually owns the building on State Street? Is it Macy's or someone else?
Response from Jim:
The building is owned by Macy's. An article by Sandra Jones in the Chicago Tribune from about a year ago quoted an appraisal of about $1.24 billion for the State Street store. The Herald Square flagship on 34th Street in NYC was appraised at well over $2 billion.
Date: Thurs, May 1, 2008 8:00 pm, CT
Posted by: John M
As a former Chicagoan it saddens me that macys is located in the former Marshall Fields Building. My grandmother would say I'm going shopping at My Marshall Fields. Never once did she call macys my macys. Federated has hurled so many insults to Chicogans by rebranding the store to macys. Macys is New York not Chicago and will never be. With a bad economy macys needs to realise people of Chicago love and want to shop at Marshall Field and Company NOT macys!!! That is why the competition is having great sales in the Chicago area. Where macys is not.
Date: Thurs, May 1, 2008 2:36 pm, CT
Posted by: Ken Allan
I hope that everyone enjoyed the latest news about Lord and Taylor. (See the previous post.)
I just wanted to pass on some observations about a recent weekend spent in Boston.
I would say that if you rank which US Cities have the largest retail districts outisde of New York City, Chicago would be second, with Boston and San Francisco tied for 3rd place.
Boston has the benefit of being looked to as the HUB of New England, and many view Boston as THE place to go for serious shopping. The Copely Square area boosts 2 major upscale malls, Copely Place, and Prudential Center, with Saks, Neiman's and Lord and Taylor anchoring these complexes. Nearby Newbury Street is loaded with moderate to high end stores and never seems to be less than jammed.
To it's credit, Beantown has worked very hard to restore and update the Downtown Crossing district, and it looks better now than it did 15 years ago, and has a ton of new construction going on.
This past Saturday all of Boston's retail areas were brimming with people, both locals and tourists, WITH ONE NOTABLE EXECPTION.........
The deadest store we visited all day was, you guessed it, Macy's.
What was their tagline, before the Magic of Macy's, oh yes, Way To Shop.
It should be, Macy's, Way to Underwhelm!!!
Ken
Date: Thurs, May 1, 2008 2:24 pm, CT
Posted by: Ken Allan
Yesterday's New York Times featured another great article on the comeback of Lord and Taylor.
Lord & Taylor Considers Stores Outside U.S.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/04/30/business/30shops.html?scp=1&sq=lord+and+taylor&st=nyt
By MICHAEL BARBARO
Published: April 30, 2008
The last sentences speak volumes about how to restore a retailers luster.
NRDC bought Lord & Taylor in 2006 and has since purchased Fortunoff, the home furnishings chain, turning Mr. Baker, 42, into a major player in the retail world.
A foreign venture would be the latest chapter in Lord & TaylorC-s remarkable turnaround over the last decade. Once regarded as irrelevant and financially troubled, the retailer has rebounded by recruiting upscale designers and fixing up its once-dowdy stores.
Date: Thurs, May 1, 2008 12:21 pm, CT
Posted by: Rich W
Sadly, I am saying goodbye to Chicago once again and returning to NYC. But one thing's for certain: Lord & Taylor will continue to be the department store I shop and Macy's, and its disparaging NY locations including the "Atrocity on 34th St.", will never get a penny of my business. And when Marshall Field's is proudly restored to Chicagoland, I will come back and visit and shop away. The red star store has quickly become the "lone" star store with all the empty locations around the nation. If by some chance in hell I ever wanted to purchase red star private branded clothing, why would I go to one of their empty stores with no sales help and broken escalators and restrooms when I can get it at Good Will for better prices, in a cleaner store and with friendlier sales help? macy's. way to flop. the magic of macy's= making the customers disappear. macy's: bringing the celebrity has-beens together
Date: Thurs, May 1, 2008 11:33 am, CT
Posted by: drew
"Those wacky folks at macy*s" FINALLY got something right:
"Macy's doesn't expect big impact from rebate checks"
http://www.reuters.com/article/marketsNews/idINN2931955220080429?rpc=44
Of course, shoppers aren't going to WASTE their rebate money on poorly made, bland overpriced knockoffs. Despite rising food and fuel prices, people must purchase other merchandise. In these difficult economic times, shoppers at all levels who expect quality and value can find better choices at competing retailers.
Isn't it interesting that Ms. Hugout denies that massive store closings are planned? Isn't her comment somewhat defensive and akin to previous statements that sales were improving and that shoppers were returning? Look for more "exciting" "enhancements" in the months ahead at the store everyone loves to hate!
Date: Thurs, May 1, 2008 5:49 am, CT
Posted by: A. Perkins
ABC News has an online video about the worst CEOs in America who still make Millions of Dollar$ even when their companies are failing.
While it does not include Terry Lundgren in the video, you can leave your comments on the blog if you want them to know who you think America's worst CEO is.
http://video.search.yahoo.com/video/play?p=ceo+worst&ei=UTF-8&fr2=tab-news&tnr=21&x=wrt&vi
Date: Thurs, May 1, 2008 12:01 am, CT
Posted by: David
I'm sorry but this whole thing has just grown so tired. Macy's execs refuse to give specific store results, but they have conceded State Street is doing much worse than anticpated. Various unofficial reports claim that these stores are down 20% to over 33% from when it was Marshall Field's. Chicagoans are thirsting for authenticity as much of their past is replaced by generic substitutions...is there no common sense to prevail?
It's been nearly two years of Macy's in the former Field's stores and almost three since the buyout closed. It's failed.
Chicago wants Marshall Field's back and at its former glory: pre-Federated. Period.
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....
