We welcome thoughtful comments and respectful opinions that help make the case for the restoration of Marshall Field's to State Street and elsewhere. Off-topic, obviously incorrect, disrespectful or abusive posts will removed at the host's discretion, although an attempt will be made to contact the author, assuming a valid email address is provided with the post. The ethos is conversational--corrections are welcomed. Differing or opposing views are welcome and such posts should respect that this is a blog for opinions of Field's supporters. Due to problems with spam attacks--some even from those opposed to our cause--during certain periods, posts are moderated. As a result, it may take up to seven days for your post to appear, but usually it will take less than a day, and sometimes even immediately. Thank you for your patience, support, and written contributions.
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Below are blog posts from April 30, 2010 backwards to October 31, 2009.
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Date: Friday, May 7, 2010 1:24 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
What's new...What's up with this blog?
There's been some technical issues with the server over the past couple of weeks meaning that posts could not be submitted to our blog. On top of this, some personal concerns have prevented the blog from being fixed--until today.
Things with the blog should be back now in full swing. Please help with our cause to restore Marshall Field's by submitting your posts.
Also: we expect some interesting news late next week--although, sadly, as far as I know, it won't be that Macy's finally has agreed to give customers what they want--Marshall Field's!
Here's to the once and furture Marshall Field's!
Many thanks and best regards,
Jim McKay
Date: Sunday, April 25, 2010
Posted by: Gail
I was in Chicago for all of 16 hours last week for an event that took place at the Cultural Center. On my way there from the Hotel Burnham, I walked through what used to be the finest retail establishment on the planet. I have kept to my vow never to spend a nickel at Macy's or Bloomingdale's. Judging from the number of shoppers at the State Street Store, I am not the only one.
Date: Friday, April 23, 2010
Posted by: JMG
I wrote about this a while back but thought I would see if anyone has any additional thoughts.
It's unfortunate that TL didn't see the opportunity in owning Marshall Field's. I have long been a Dayton's and then Field's fan (I moved to Chicago from Minneapolis right when the stores in MN changed to Field's, actually) and have grown up with both stores. I now, of course, boycott the M store. In Minneapolis, we have had Macy's since the Mall of America opened in 1992- did anyone care? Hell no. Dayton's and Field's always trumped "way to sh*t" or whatever they are calling themselves now.
At any rate, I (like most of you, I presume) didn't *hate* Macy's before the changover...instead I kind of ignored it, especially since it wasn't in the Chicago area. After I heard the news that Macy's had purchased Field's, I thought to myself, how perfect! Now Macy's can have three stores- Macy's, Bloomingdales and Field's.
Field's could have added a few locations to NY and Cali, perhaps other places around the country, and I would even be willing to cede a few lower end Field's stores (Brookdale in MN?) to Macy's.
Of course, we all know Macy's loves their red and loves marketing garbage- so why not go head to head with Target? Don't get me wrong, I love Target, but Macy's could try to win over people doing "Target style shopping" by keeping Field's. Heck, had Macy's kept Field's and built their own "flagship" in Block 37, I doubt anyone would be protesting (though many might be indifferent)- if Macy's were a place to pick up some Target style stuff though, it could really work!
All three brands could have been marked nationally together, celebrating their histories and keeping their traditions.
Of course, TL has a typical "coast" mentality, assuming that Foley's and Field's were exactly the same thing, and who wouldn't want something from NYC right in their own city??? It's such a shame, now everyone in Chicago hates him and his precious Macy's, and I can't wait for Field's to make it's return to prove him absolutely wrong.
Bloomies, Fields, and Macy's- three stores for three different purposes. Does anyone else think this would have worked?
Date: Friday, April 23, 2010
Posted by: Betty
I found a hatbox branded with "The French Room" at Marshall Field's.
Anyone know anything about The French Room?
Date: Thursday, April 22, 2010
Posted by: kurt
For more great Field's memories, check out www.fuzzymemories.tv its a website someone put together that has lots of old Chicago area TV commercials, including several from Field's.
Here's one from Christmas 1985
http://www.fuzzymemories.tv/screen.php?c=760&m=%22marshall%20field%B4s%22&p=1
Date: Monday, April 19, 2010
Posted by: George Miller
I went through the furniture department on the eight floor of the State Street Store this past Saturday. It looks as though they are getting out of the furniture business!
Most of the furniture, especially the better furniture, on the floor was marked clearance. It appeared that the only thing that wasn't on clearance was the lower priced merchandise.
Anyone else heard more? I know that the furniture industry in general was not doing well, but I would hate to see the loss of another product line.
They do know how to do things in the worst way. I initially was upset at the loss of the Field's name, but I never expected that the stores would be taken so down market!
Date: Monday, April 19, 2010
Posted by: Leslie Croce
I've never been to Marshall Field's; never been to Chicago except a few stopovers at the airport. But I love Emily Kimbrough's books, and her THROUGH CHARLEY'S DOOR made me a fan of a store I've never seen. I realize that she was writing about the store a long time ago, but nonetheless it sounds like a special place.
Jan Whitaker's book SERVICE AND STYLE, about American department stores, makes me long for a time when shopping was a pleasant experience, when tea rooms were elegant, relaxing places, when everything wasn't so generic and plastic-wrapped and identical that you can't tell one store from another.
I hope you're successful in your campaign for Marshall Field's. I have a soft spot in my heart for the Macy's of MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET, but not this montrous entity swallowing every regional brand.
Date: Sunday, April 18, 2010
Posted by: drew
I was speaking with a relative who lives in suburban Detroit. As we lamented the loss of local businesses and customer service, the conversation turned to the lack of quality merchandise. My cousin remarked "Everyone really misses JL Hudson. macy*s is a total waste and nobody even bothers going there." She said Hudson's (and for a time, Marshall Field's) could always be counted on for quality merchandise and fair prices. She has to dress "professionally" for work and said there in nothing at macy*s which would be appropriate. She said she could complete almost all her shopping at Hudson's/Field's because of the wide selection of merchandise at various prices. She could find basic clothes for her husband to wear to work, fine gifts and quality household items at one place.
She said people now go to JC Penney and Kohl's for basic merchandise and to Von Maur for better things. She also shops Bed, Bath and Beyond for home merchandise formerly purchased at Hudson's/Field's. Indeed, she said that young ladies in the Detroit area are setting up their bridal registry at Bed, Bath and Beyond whereas in the past "everyone registered at Hudson's." My cousin laughed and said "Who would register for Martha Stewart's Kmart junk for their wedding?" In fact, she is invited to several bridal showers and weddings this spring and NONE of the brides have registered at macy*s.
Date: Saturday, April 17, 2010
Posted by: drew
I was at the downtown Pittsburgh Red Star recently. The merchandise selection gets thinner and there are even wider spaces between display racks and tables. Additional selling floor space has been blocked off in areas, noticeably in the china and housewares departments. They have lots of Martha Stewart housewares to the arcade level from the upper floor. Very few shoppers were in the store and even fewer Red Star bags.The overly LOUD music was very annoying. It was obvious that Mr Lunkhead isn't putting any money into this store, as carpeting was faded and dirty. The store still looks decent overall since Kaufmann's had invested in a major remodeling a few years before the Red Star invasion, but the maintenance is minimal at best.
Shopped with a friend at the Century III Red Star last week. The lighting was just TOO bright, just like Kmart. The floors were mopped, but there were many black scuff marks on the dull tile which needed a coat of wax. There weren't really any displays, just merchandise stacked on tables or hanging on racks. Of course, the store was pretty much devoid of shoppers. The store looks rundown and unattractive, and the merchandise looks cheap and unappealing. JC Penney, meanwhile, was quite busy with customers carrying bags of merchandise. Penney's was well-stocked and clean, in sharp contrast to the Red Star.
Unfortunately Century III mall has gone downhill for a number of years and now attracts a more downmarket demographic. Still JC Penney maintains a clean, well-stocked and organized store while the Red Star has about as much class as Sears.
Date: Thursday, April 15, 2010
Posted by: drew
As I walked through the detergent aisle of my local Giant Eagle supermarket, I noticed the store is now carrying Martha Stewart Clean laundry detergent. Other posters have noted that walmart sells Martha Stewart craft supplies.
Martha Stewart "exclusively" at your local grocery, walmart or Red Star Store.
Date: Thursday, April 15, 2010
Posted by: Sean Courtney
a couple of weeks ago I was walking down Wabash and saw that there IS an Honorary Marshall Field's Way at the corner of Washington and Wabash. Not the best place for it (under the L tracks and not a lot of foot traffic), and it's named for the store and not the man, but at least it's there...
BUT....whatever happened to the same honorary sign at State and Washington. There was some construction at the intersection circa the switch from Field's to Macy's and the sign was never put back up. The sign is supposed to mark both the beginning and the end of the stretch.
Date: Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Posted by: gle
Messy's boasts that sales are creeping up, but that doesn't inspire me a bit. The State Street store still looks junky, with its tacky decor mixed in with the flower show, and pigeon droppings along part of the Washington Street exterior like they think people don't notice stuff.
A press release from Macy's official website www.macysinc.com, in addition to the typical Lundgren rosy-picture, also mentions a meeting with financial analysists scheduled for April 27 from 9:15 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. ET in New York, to be available on Messy's website within 24 hours.
"Macy's, Inc. Same Store Ssales up 10.8% in March"
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1410830&highlight=
The "Sun-Times" also contains a hype of Messy's "good news," complete with comment blog.
"Macy's Sales Climb in March" April 8, 2010 by Associated Press
http://www.suntimes.com/business/earnings/2147701,macys-march-sales-040810.article
Date: Monday, April 12, 2010
Posted by: John J. 3
Looks like Walgreen's is doing the right thing by Duane Reade drugstores. They're keeping their name and their unique character.
Date: Sunday, April 11, 2010
Posted by: S.
Maybe New Yorkers don't get why Chicagoans are so angry over the loss of Field's. Consider it the department store version of the Brooklyn Dodgers being moved to Los Angeles.
Date: Friday, April 9, 2010 2:19 pm CT
Posted by: R.S.
My perspective, the boycott is really easy. It has nothing to do with the name changes across the country, but, the inability of this company to bring it's customers what they are looking for. And, furthermore, on such a large scale. I don't think any self respecting New Yorker would step foot in the place, so why on earth would the company expect anyone else to is beyond me. And, frankly, the goods at Blockheadale's are EVEN WORSE.
Date: Thursday, April 8, 2010 2:19 pm CT
Posted by: Marcia
Thank you, Drew, for posting the "Retail Worker" website. I checked other topics concerning macy*s and found lots of interesting remarks from employees. You all may want to click on the topics: "Magic" and "Macy's Gets Rid of the Word 'Outstanding'." Also find out what phrase employees are supposed to use in answering the phones.
http://www.retail-worker.com/forum/forum-23.html
Date: Wednesday, April 7, 2010 5:47 pm CT
Posted by: gle
Here is "Chicago Tribune" coverage about the new owner of Ambassador East Hotel and the Pump Room, Ian Schrager, who claims he does not want to repeat mistakes Messy's made.
The article quotes Schrager as saying, "For a hotel in the city to be successful, it has to be embraced and supported by the local people."
"New owner wants to pump life back into Ambassador East hotel" April 2, 2010 by Wailin Wong
http://www.chicagotribune.com/classified/realestate/ct-biz-0403-ambassador-hotel-schrager--20100402,0,242217.story
A comment blog follows the article, with free easy registration.
Date: Wednesday, April 7, 2010 9:33 am CT
Posted by: denise rule
Holy cow!!!! Dr Leslie Goddard,at Mt Pros. Library last nite...a wonderful, beautiful, heartfelt, amazing 90min. presentation on Marshall Field's.....to an over-fill crowd with 50 more on a waiting list. AND, she starts out about THIS overwhelming-emotion-filled group who put our hearts on our sleeves and continue to show love and support for Field's (and disdain for all things "m".....my words, not hers).
Date: Monday, April 5, 2010 4:08 pm CT
Posted by: drew
It seems that those who inhabit the "Retail Worker" forum also question the elaborate system of promotions that Macy's plays host to. I sure don't rmemeber Field's having all these promotion. Simply being at Marshall Field's was promotion enough.
Date: Sunday, April 4, 2010 6:21 pm CT
Posted by: B.G.
My family and I have seen all that is here about Marshall Field's and Macy's--about twenty of us are all on board!
Date: Friday, April 2, 2010 7:14 pm CT
Posted by: Stephen G.
I believe that the current condition of the Macy's State Street store is intentional and will continue to remain in this conditon or even get worse. The reason...Macy's won't/can't let is outshine its Herald Square Flagship store in Manhattan, which having walked through "The World's Largest Stotre" very recently, is pretty much a depressing shopping experience!
Date: Friday, April 2, 2010 6:28 pm CT
Posted by: Joe
Looks like the new owners of the Pump Room have got it right and learned from the massive mistakes of Macy's: There's a handful of comments pointing out that the Pump room owners appear to understand Chicago while Macy's blew it.
Chicago Tribune:
http://www.chicagobreakingbusiness.com/2010/04/new-ambassador-east-hotel-owner-plans-revival.html
Crains Real estate:
http://www.chicagorealestatedaily.com/cgi-bin/news.pl?id=37680
Date: Friday, April 2, 2010 1:49 pm CT
Posted by: Alan
It's good to see this site is still getting traffic. While most surviving retail stocks have recovered in the past year, I still wonder how many customers that Macy's has ceded to others over the past few years. I think it is significant.
Date: Friday, April 2, 2010 6:09 am CT
Posted by: Susan NY
oohhhh this all hurts.
Somehow it seems an offense against the Universe that the State Street Store is being brought to humiliation like this, like it was a deliberate act of vandalism. The damage is slow and creeping like mold, but appears to be an intentional display of disrespect. Which brings to mind the question: is it vandalism to shoot oneself in the foot?
After following this blog for a long time, it seems very clear there is only one thing wrong in the Field's picture. Anyone with common sense could have done better at managing the Field's name and tradition in a takeover, if good business was the goal. Obviously ego is the core issue--- a towering ego, both corporate and personal, is being served. The old adage holds that pride goes before a fall.
Date: Thursday, April 1, 2010 8:29 pm CT
Posted by: Zelda
I just read that Terry Lundgren, CEO of Macy's, has had to take a 13% pay cut due to the poor performance of Macy's stock. It's about time he had to face the consequences of his very poor judgment, the takeover of Marshall Field's being just one of them. His stores have become shlock joints, and neither Marshall Field nor R. H. Macy wouid be proud of what they've become. Let's hope this is just the beginning of Lundgren having to face reality.
I will never shop at Macy's but find my substitute stores (Nordstrom, Carson's, local boutiques) haven't replaced the one, the only, Marshall Field's. We must never give up doing everything we can to bring back this great store that added so much to the culture of our lives, our city and our region.
------
Macy's 2009 CEO compensation falls 13 pct - Yahoo! Finance
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Macys-2009-CEO-compensation-apf-635086212.html?x=0&.v=5
Date: Wednesday, March 31, 2010 11:34 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Many thanks to all who have posted or written or both during the past couple of weeks when updates to the blog have not been possible. I've had some complications including in the digital and internet realm and now things seems to be falling back into place.
If you sent in button requests from Decemeber 13, 2009 through February 13, 2010, you should have received your buttons several weeks ago, if not immediately after your request. Because of a US Postal service error, those requesting buttons in the second half of Decemember may receive duplicate shipments of buttons. If so, please distribute your extras for others to display.
Button requests since February 13th should be fulfilled in the coming week.
Many thanks for your patience, comeraderie and support.
Happy holidays (Spring, Passover, Easter and more) to all.
Here's to the once and former Field's!
Date: Wednesday, March 31, 2010 4:29 pm CT
Posted by: gle
A HAPPY PASSOVER, HAPPY EASTER AND HAPPY SPRING TO FELLOW FIELD'S FANS! Thank-you for your continuing inspiration on this blog and elsewhere.
Date: Tuesday, March 30, 2010 5:06 pm CT
Posted by: State Street Spectator
An overall impression of Messy's flower show on State Street:
Corner State Street windows: Giant pinwheels can be seen at a distance, along with the green stain on the building and general un-upkeep. On closer look are the flowers--tulips, daffodils, azaleas, etc. They are just out and still fresh. However, some leaves in the background do look a little wilted.
Some non-floral windows: Younger-generation-only fashions, with a touch of neo-60's flower power look.
A long, bland sky-blue carpet runs the main level on the State Street side, with small images of flowers & spring. Also flower petals and other debris that no-one has swept up.
Overhead at the Washington entrance are what look like large paper mache bees. A cascade of small, wood model airplanes dangles under the Tiffany dome. Toward the Randolph entrance are some kites, and a rather tacky giant air balloon.
Much of the floral theme includes twigs and sticks with small spring buds. The Walnut Room displays fresh flowers, with bare branches protruding out with the ends chopped off like they have been pruned (perhaps in keeping with Lundgren's theory of pruning non-productive stores). A large cage and fake birds completes the centerpiece in the Walnut Room. About 6 tables were occupied circa 5:00 p.m. on a weekday.
The center escalator from the 2nd to 3rd floor, that was busted on St. Patrick's Day, is still busted.
KIA motors is a sponor of the Messy's flower show, and features a 2011 Sorento on the 1st floor, stuffed with flowers and offers for a Macy's gift card Sweepstakes and shopping spree.
That is the general impression reported from State Street on this Tuesday evening, March 30, 2010.
Date: Tuesday, March 30, 2010 12:54 am CT
Posted by: Wendy, Life-long Field's Shopper
I have to say, I miss the windows at Christmas the most. Macy's does a TERRIBLE job with the windows and it is so sad!
Date: Monday, March 29, 2010 12:34 pm CT
Posted by: Joe
The unfortunate thing for Field's customers, Macy's customers, and Macy's stock holders is that Marshall Field's could have been used as valuable brand at all 840 of its stores.
If they had left the legendary Marshall Field's brand and way at State Street, they could also be selling the Marshall Field's brand at all other Macy's and Bloomingdale's stores. A REAL BRAND with authentic meaning and history. Do people truly connect with brands like "Style and Company?" Alfani? These names are so generic. When was the last time you heard anyone be roud to say that their clothing brand is "Style" brand? It would be laughable if it all weren't so sad and foolish. It's a real shame that customers in other parts of the country couldn't go to their local Macy's and Bloomingdale's and buy shirts, accessories, linens, and other merchandise with the Marshall Field's brand. And that brand would be a real place embodied by a real, classy store--the internationally renowned store on State Street in Chicago. What a loss for all concerned, including stock holders. As it is, the premium brand "Marshall Field's" is a wastedi, valuable resource.
The loss of Marshall Field's didn't have to happen for Macy's to become a national brand and chain. In fact, the Marshall Field's brand could have been kept and incorporated into the grand scheme of making Macy's a national brand. The moth-balling of Marshall Field's demonstrates Terry Lundgren's lack of creativity and over-sized ego and hubris. While he is clearly a very smart and crafty man, what has happened with Field's shows that his ego severely fogs his better judgement.
Date: Sunday, March 28, 2010 2:44 pm CT
Posted by: Early Spring shopper
A friend and I recently went to the Hawthorne Center Mall in Vernon Hills (which has a Macy's). We went there for the Sears, and enjoyed looking over the variety of linen products and got some decent things for good prices. Out of curiosity I took a quick look in Macy's while my friend waited in the car (she wasn't interested). The minute I walked in I was almost hit in the face with a barrage of loud-colored floral bikini's. They seemed to be everywhere. The entire first floor resembled a trashy teenage boutique. I didn't see anything for any other category of shopper, and definitely didn't see anything I wanted. The store was not very busy, even though the parking lot was full (there were several department stores at the mall). I didn't bother to go upstairs, and didn't want to keep my friend waiting who didn't even want to go in the store. The only thing positive I could say about that Macy's is that it was much cleaner than the State Street store. I would not go back there for Macy's (or shop at Macy's any other place for that matter).
Date: Saturday, March 27, 2010 9:45 pm CT
Posted by: Rich
Hi all
Haven't posted in a long while but there is nothing to say -- I had to buy several Christening gifts-- In the past I went to Field's and found fantastic beautiful things for the baby. These all, always seemed to be well recieved and appreciated, and were always beautifully presented in the wrapping that Field's used to do. This oc course included the beautiful green Field's box.
I had a pleasant and satisfying experience with Von Maur to fill this need for these gifts -- an experience which reminded me of Field's. They were wonderful!
I still would have preferred to patron Marshall Field's however.
Rich
Date: Saturday, March 27, 2010 5:39 pm CT
Posted by: Jeff S.
Just got back from a trip down to southern Indiana. Along my way, I take Highway 41 right through Terre Haute. Took time to stretch my legs at the Honey Creek Mall. Checked out the former Root Store, which became L.S. Ayeres, and now has been Macyfied! The first floor was devoid of customers. The 2nd floor has been greatly downsized--is now about half the size! The folks at Macy's put up 2 walls the entire length of the store on the 2nd floor, reducing the selling space by about half of what it used to be. Most noticeable was the reduction in the linen and crystal/china departments. No Frango chocolates to be found anywhere. At Elder-Beerman (Carson's), Sears and Penneys, the customers were plentiful with high-energy activity all around; quite a contrast from the downsized Macy's!
Date: Friday, March 26, 2010 4:11 pm CT
Posted by: Nina G.
Interesting that Sandy Hintz would mention WGN as one of the great iconic Chicago institutions, along with Field's. In recent months WGN Radio has been going through the kinds of changes that Field's has suffered. New ownership/management has done everything possible to alienate the local audience - firing long-time stars and substituting inferior talent, providing lists of "discouraged" words and phrases for the newscasters, etc. The result so far has been a decrease in ratings especially in the "morning drive" slot that WGN's announcers claimed as the #1 spot for decades!
Date: Friday, March 26, 2010 9:19 am CT
Posted by: Chip R.
By eliminating gift wrapping service at its acquired regional department stores across the U.S., macy*s has come one step closer to being like discounters Wal*Mart an Target according to this retail espert.
Date: Thursday, March 25, 2010 1:06 am CT
Posted by: Susan L.
Field's Forever-Macy's Never!!!
Date: Tuesday, March 23, 2010 4:07 pm CT
Posted by: Joe
Macy's stock, along with that of other department stores like Carson's, continues to skyrocket, even though the labor market is poor. In Macy's case, they also have a huge debt load. I see these stock prices as being a sort of bubble. While in a certain way, I wish the increase was a true indciation of economic recovery, I fear it is another bubble.
The following article supports my vantage.
Date: Sunday, March 21, 2010 2:06 pm CT
Posted by: gle
Messy's plans another flower show to include the State Street store. From their website www.macysinc.com:
"Macy's Downtown Flagships Showcase a Floral Spectacular in New York, Philadelphia, Chicago, Minneapolis and San Francisco"
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1403745&highlight=
The only thing I want to see flowering on State Street is Marshall Field's. I remember what a fantastic flower show Field's always had-- a company where I worked in the 1990's actually sent employees an e-mail telling us how beautiful it was and to go over and look. Messy's seems to have "pardon our appearance" signs in the State Street windows more often than not--and most those windows just have ad posters when there are displays, with a few articles of merchandise in front.
And people still ask for "I want my Marshall Field's" buttons when they see the one I wear.
Date: Sunday, March 21, 2010 7:45 am CT
Posted by: Judy M.
I'm watching "Baby's Day Out" - made in 1994, a funny movie about 3 inept kinappers who abduct the baby of a rich couple. The baby gets away and leads them on a whild goose chase through Chicago. One of his stops?? MARSHALL FIELD'S!!! There's a whole scene inside the store. The camera pans up and you see all the floors and the store is CROWDED with pristine counters and displays. Lot of shots of the green awnings and ALL of the doors work - no duct tape or "broken" signs. Ah...the good ol' days....
Judy
Date: Saturday, March 20, 2010 5:48 pm CT
Posted by: A.K.
I want Marshall Fields Back!!!!!!
Date: Friday, March 19, 2010 9:45 am CT
Posted by: Leslie
I'm a big fan of the blog; and a former Marshall Field's employee (and for a while, Macy's, unfortunatley) from a store in Minnesota. I still get together with my former coworkers and talk about how we miss Fields!
Date: Thursday, March 18, 2010 3:14 pm CT
Posted by: A.O.
My mother worked as a dress buyer for Marshall Fields in the 1960s and had a wonderful time there.
We miss Marshall Field's and want it to come back. We look forward to getting some buttons.
Date: Wednesday, March 17, 2010 9:42 am CT
Posted by: Sandy Lyman Hintz
While living in Milwaukee and Chicagoland between 1940 and 1984, Marshall Fields represented the finest department store shopping and visiting experience. It was my parent's favorite store, and they would travel to Chicago via train and automobile to shop there many times a year. When I moved to Chicago, I worked downtown and Fields was almost a daily stop on the way home and also almost a daily stop for lunch. There are many things Chicago is known universally for. The Loop, Michigan Avenue, State Street, the museums, WGN, etc. Certainly Marshall Fields is one of them. Dropping that brand and replacing it with Macy's reinforces the same smart ass feelings New York continues to have with anything beyond it's western suburbs. I will never spend a dime in a Macy's branded store, and I don't watch their self promotion Thanksgiving Day parade on TV either.
Date: Tuesday, March 16, 2010 5:28 pm CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels
Note to Drew concerning his post dated Saturday, March 6, 2010: Sorry to report that those wacky folks at Macy's already had Jordache jeans in stock last year. Hard to believe, but true.
I walked one of the stores over the weekend. There is less and less emphasis on displays. The look is now merchandise piled on counters and tables. The only reason the Chicago area stores can look half way decent is Field's invested big money in store design and fixtures.
They are trying to keep the tile floors nice and shiny. Trouble is, those wacky folks must run the floor washing machine straight up the aisle. There are 6" ribbons of dirt and grim cicling every counter and table.
Oh Macy's: Time to check your fire extinguishers. I found four that need recharging. Shame. Shame. You cut back on service, style, quality...and now safety.
Hey gang, remember the FLOWERING FIELDS promotion? Always so beautiful. Did Macy's kill that off too?
[Webmaster's Note:
Macy's will have a spring flower show again for the Easter Season at the State Street.]
Date: Monday, March 15, 2010 10:19 pm CT
Posted by: AndyJohnson
was in the former regional flagship in downtown Minneapolis over the weekend, and the candy county has been replaced by bottled salad dressing. A rather odd transition to say the least, and disappointed for everyone who went to Dayton's and the Field's for out-of-the ordinary items all under one roof.
One clarification about the shutting of the escalators between 6th floor and 12th floor in downtown Minneapolis. Above 5th floor, there's the auditorium on 8th (holiday show, flower show, etc) and two big restaurants on 12th. But I think the other floors have been used for office space up until Macy's North was shuttered. It's sad to see the jobs go, but the store itself did not get consolidated.
Date: Monday, March 15, 2010 12:22 pm CT
Posted by: JC
Here is an interesting article from today's RETAIL WIRE:
http://www.retailwire.com/Discussions/Sngl_Discussion.cfm/14364#poll
Subject: Brand differentiation.
Be sure to read the opinions of retail and financial analysts following the article.. Several mourn the present-day "sameness" of department stores, ala macy*s. Mention is made that previously in malls, there would be a Sears, JCPenney and a regional/local department store anchor for higher-class designer brands. The analyst states that now the nation has the "same-same" macy*s, Sears, and JCPenney with no differentiation. Some put JCPenney and macy's together in the same category for comparison. (For JCPenney's sake, I object because JCP stores are clean throughout, neatly merchandised and gift wrap is offered in all JCP stores.)
Date: Monday, March 15, 2010 12:18 pm CT
Posted by: Rick Krueger
Thank you so much for having this forum to express our frustration over the loss of Marshall Field's! I have so many fond memories of learning the fine are of retail, entertaining, class, taste, visual presentation, and just plain class that Marshall Field gave to all of us. I'm more than bitter about this loss and absolutely will NOT shop at Macy's.
In any of our collective journey's, does anyone know of, or have in thier position, or information on where to find, the recipe for Field's Fruit Cake? I'm searching hign and low and don't seem to get anywhere. I have the Frango cookbook, the "Someone's in the Kitchen with..." book and the newest offering including the culinary councile offerings, but can't find the fruitcake recipe. If anyone can help, just e-mail me at ricbear70mm@yahoo.com, or just tl let men know this is a dead end.
Just another tradition, I'd like to keep alive for my friends and family.
Best of luck and health to all of us. And DO NOT shop at Macy's
:)
Rick
Date: Sunday, March 14, 2010 1:24 pm CT
Posted by: gle
Re: The idea that Messy's doesn't need new customers, just take care of the ones it has
When Messy's first bought out Marshall Field's, they had endless customers. They didn't take care of those customers, and now many of them are gone and boycotting the store.
I went through the State Street store on Saturday, both before and after the St. Patrick's Day parade when downtown Chicago is barraged by tourists and locals. The liveliest corner of the store seemed to be Starbucks on the lower level. The Walnut Room had a group of ladies just leaving about 3PM, but there didn't seem to be ANY other customers (unless they were in some dark corners away from the entrance). A few black clad employees strolled among empty white-linen-draped tables. The Frango Cafe seemed deserted as well. (I wonder if those facilities close early now.) There was some human life, ambling through the various floors sort of like marbles rolling around. An escalator was broken, and first floor tiles are still cracked and taped. The store had a strangely ambivilent tension--no bustle, purpose or vibrance. If Messy's thinks taking care of its existing customers will help, those persons had better be VERY wealthy--because there aren't many of them left.
Date: Sunday, March 14, 2010 1:24 pm CT
Posted by: Dylan P.
If I were a macy*s shareholder, I would be critically alarmed at the macy*s executive's current desire not to expand macy*s customer base by bringing on new customers. It's just not prudent in ANY type of economy--good or bad. To be content with only the regular macy customer count and not to listen what customers would want who would otherwise shop there, does not speak well for good leadership and management. I'm in complete agreement with John D's comments and I thought his remarks were perceptive and stated well.
Date: Saturday, March 13, 2010 7:34 pm CT
Posted by: FieldsFansChicago.org
Thanks to "gle" and the rest who made leafleting and button distribution at today's St. Patrick's Day parade a success. Hundreds of leaflets and buttons were snapped up and eagerly received and displayed until supplies were exhausted. Look for a new photo from the parade on our front page gallery.
Date: Saturday, March 13, 2010 9:29 am CT
Posted by: FieldsFansChicago.org
Look for us today on the St Patrick's Day parade route on Columbus Drive, passing out leaflets and "I Want My Marshall Field's" buttons--while quantities last!
Date: Saturday, March 13, 2010 6:33 am CT
Posted by: Susan NY
Aarrgh! Thanks, Joe, for the perceptive and incisive cartoon.....
I have restrained myself from carping about what all this means in the grand scheme of things but that hits the nail on the head. What an oxymoron: austere flagship store.
There are some things in life that are worth the extra cost or effort. Maybe it's granite in the kitchen, maybe it's Mozart any time you like, maybe it's a pretty window box, or even a nice coat or a Tiffany ceiling.
But when you come down to it, we don't NEED the 'good' stuff to survive. We could all just retreat to caves, sit on our haunches and gnaw bones. That's basic enough. Some people are inclined to equate austerity and parsimony with virtue, but I am convinced homo sapiens was designed to be creative, productive, generous, and to manifest that which is best or beautiful materially and spiritually. Even at our lowest ebb we have that instinct. Niggardliness is not a sign of human grace. When our culture drops its best by the wayside in the name of that slithery "bottom line," it hurts everyone one way or another.
BTW, this is not intended as an argument for gluttony or greed... I see that apathy, the shrugged shoulder, giving up-- has been considered a Deadly Sin. Yeah! Make that 8 Deadly Sins. They represent the polarities of indifference and obsession. Where is the median? 111 N. State Street, as one example! Or at least, useta-be. Right now it looks sort of like a sour combination of indifference AND obsession. Are there no mercantile White Knights on the horizon?
Date: Saturday, March 13, 2010 12:26 am CT
Posted by: Richard in Houston
See my post on February 12th regarding the fate of Foley's dowtown Houston flagship and the branch stores. What has happened to it and downtown Minneapolis is sure to happen to all the "flagship" locations of the former regional stores as well as the branches. How I long for the return of Field's and the other regional stores our grandchildren will never know. Our society has changed dramatically in the last 30 years. The retail landscape is so barren. The shame is, the same thing has happened to a host of other industries like hotels, airlines, restaurants, communications, automobiles and banks, etc. Department stores, however, were historically much more a part of our lives and communities.
Date: Friday, March 12, 2010 5:32 pm CT
Posted by: Zsa
The former Marshall Field's store at Park Forest may become a charter school.....there remains several hurdles to this....the store closed back in the mid-1990s when Field's was owned by Dayton-Hudson.
http://www.southtownstar.com/neighborhoodstar/matteson/2098271,031210Fields.article
We used to frequent this store when I was a kid & we lived in Beverly. River Oaks & Park Forest were FREQUENT trips for EVERYTHING. We got our wood CLUB HOUSE delivered. We fell in love with it in the basement of the Park Forest Fields in 1965-66!!!
The store still looks great...just empty! :(
Date: Friday, March 12, 2010 5:01 pm CT
Posted by: Joe
I believe there is a lot of truth in the following article and editorial cartoon. It talks about how corporations are presenting a false impression of health by slashing staffing to the bone to give great short term profits, all the while undermining the long term viability of the corporation--indeed, of our very society.
I think the example, especially as expressed by the article's somewhat over-the-top editorial cartoon, is typical of companies like Macy's, as well as other retailers. In the long run, where is the quality? Marshall Field's embodied values that made our society great. Today's Macy's, not as much.
Article: Seeking Alpha, Jan 12, 2010: Jim Cramer is Right
http://seekingalpha.com/article/182119-jim-cramer-is-right
Cartoon:
http://static.seekingalpha.com/uploads/2010/1/12/saupload_cartoon.png
Date: Friday, March 12, 2010 6:45 am CT
Posted by: Susan NY
Aww c'mon- why would I shop at Bloomingdales?-- I never did. It wasn't Field's. That's easy enough.
Even if it was a saavy decision to destroy all those other names across the land, even if it was in some way defensible to do that to the Field's branch stores.....what in the world could possess anyone to bring down the State Street Field's???? (Apart from envy) Is this nation so reduced in circumstances that, after all its woes and troubles of the previous century, it has at last crossed the line into abject poverty, unable to support said store?? No offering of mediocrity will do, but that the level be further reduced in an effort to reach the bottom? Funny, I never thought of Field's as a bottom feeder, and I didn't think our era was so much worse off than previous ones.
Even in the day when many or most families felt they were living well without requiring master suites, 'vaulted' ceilings and architectural kitchens with granite counter tops-- Field's thrived. OK- there were no Walmarts. I wonder if those stores really sapped the blood from Field's, or merely opened a world of shopping to folks who never would have shopped at Field's anyway. I am not sure that is an excuse.
Yes, said store was a Destination, an Experience, not merely a place to buy shorts, and now that it has been compromised, to say the least, it boggles the mind that a wannabee mercantile emperor comes up with one banal plan after the other to try to get it to fly. Just can't figure it out- can't even get the place cleaned up. Sigh. The new owner has plucked his eagle and can't figure out why sparrows don't work as well.
That leads to thoughts of emperors with no clothes, surrounded -- barricaded--with compliments on their finery.
Date: Thursday, March 11, 2010 10:48 pm CT
Posted by: Jennifer of Batavia
I sure wish Macy's would really listen...and bring back Marshall Field's in every way that it was recognized as a fashion leader and complete, full-service department store. Chicagoans and Field's Fans from all over the world have spoken loud and clear. Live is not the same without Field's. Field's means Chicago.
Date: Thursday, March 11, 2010 9:46 pm CT
Posted by: V.T.
Regarding John D's post, I would think any retailer would be out to get as many new customers as they possibly are able to do. What Macy's is aiming to do seems to be contrary to good business logic. Why doesn't Macy's want to entice new customers, especially in these difficult economic times?
Date: Thursday, March 11, 2010 6:56 pm CT
Posted by: Randy G.
If macy's Mr. Terry Lundgren was really and truly "listening", he would have realized that loyal shoppers want their Marshall Field's and other regional department stores back as they were when he bought them out and lowered them to same-same macy mass merchandizers with no customer service or reason to attract shoppers.
Date: Thursday, March 11, 2010 3:28 pm CT
Posted by: drew
In reply to James's comment about the downsizing of the Minneapolis macy*mart: look for more "flagship" locations to meet the same fate. Evidently the store traffic has decreased so dramatically it was necessary to close off all the floor space. Of course, the restaurants will be shuttered in the typical macy*mart pattern of destruction.
The article about macy*mart's latest "strategy" of listening to customers is totally laughable. I find it amazing these so-called business "experts" waste space and give credence to anything concocted by Mr Lunkhead and his cohorts. Even minimal research would demonstrate macy*mart's constant "innovations" have been one failure after another. The macy*fication project has been a total disaster in all aspects, shoppers have moved on and the misguided attempts to "put lipstick on a hog" will do nothing to reverse the downhill slide of America's most irrelevant and overpriced discount store.
Date: Thursday, March 11, 2010 1:43 pm CT
Posted by: Joe
This is in response to John D's post from this morning.
My reaction to Macy's latest game plan is not as intensely acrid as John's. However, it's pretty obvious that if Macy's has a reviatlized focus on listening to customers, then they would have to be deaf to not hear that the overwhelming majority of their customers want Marshall Field's back at State Street.
Given the heightened advertising for both Macy's and Bloomingdale's in Chicago in the past couple of weeks, my impression is that they are trying to court a lower market client at Macy's than was at Marshall Field's. Meanwhile, it seems to me that Macy's is trying to woo disgruntled Field's loyalists who are boycotting Macy's into shopping at Bloomingdale's. Fewer former Field's shoppers associate Bloomingdale's with Macy's and the the discontinuation of Field's. I won't shop at Macy's or Bloomingdale's until Field's is back on State Street.
Date: Thursday, March 11, 2010 3:28 am CT
Posted by: John D
Pure and simple: to be successful, all you had to do Mr. Terry J. Lundgren was to maintain the dozens of department stores' names, merchandising, levels of high service and standards of excellence in cleanliness, sophistication and established cultures. Instead, you changed all the venerable, recognized names to a mundane macy's and cheapened the quality of service and fine designer names.
I have never known of a retailer who is every new month, trying to "find" who it really is than macy's Lundgren.
The mark of a successful business enterprise is to be able to maintain its customer base by listening and not tampering with famous names and ways of doing business that have been successful since the mid-1800s!
It is striking that Nordstrom, Von Maur, Carson's and so many other retailers do not have to grasp at straws and use the press to try a new "approach of the month!" They maintain what they have been doing continuously---maintaing their loyal established customer base AND seeking and getting new customers daily. Mr. R.H. Macy must be turning over in his grave, not to mention, Mr. Foley, Mr. Strawbridge, Mr. Filene, Mr. Field, Mr. Burdine and all the other legendary pioneer retailers.
Date: Wednesday, March 10, 2010 5:20 pm CT
Posted by: news puzzle geek
Well, Messy's has a 4-page ad in-sert (or should I say out-sert) for the front and back cover pages of today's "Redeye" print edition. An announcement says you can find the full newspaper inside (from the initial look of it I thought maybe they bought the paper out and re-named it). The ad targets younger men's casual attire.
I usually only get this paper for the crossword and sudoku puzzles, but find it an even bigger puzzle what anyone could still see in Messy's.
Date: Wednesday, March 10, 2010 3:20 pm CT
Posted by: FieldsFansChicago.org
For the fourth St. Patrick's Day in a row, "gle" and other Field's Fans will be distributing "the green" -- book mark leaflets -- in conjunction with the City's annual St. Patrick's Day parade.
This year, leafleting will take place along the parade route on Columbus Drive, beginning at Noon this Saturday, March 13. If you wish to assist, please email info@fieldsfanschicago.org or call (312) 662-8980 before 5:00 pm this Friday, March 12.
Date: Wednesday, March 10, 2010 12:19 am CT
Posted by: James in Minneapolis
Hi All----
Wow---today I was in the Downtown Minneapolis Store on Nicollet Mall. They now have closed off the escalators running from 6th to 12th floors. Some of the floors have signs on the escalators saying they are closed as part of an effort to run the business in a "sustainable fashion."
The Skyroom and Oak Grill Restaurants are located on the 12th floor. I am guessing no escalator service will finish them off. Then they will be closed bc "people just no longer support those restaurants."
Date: Tuesday, March 9, 2010 8:11 pm CT
Posted by: M.W.
I live in milwaukee i'm still sad about macy's take over I have yet to visit the state street store and won't until MF is back.
Date: Tuesday, March 9, 2010 4:50 pm CT
Posted by: Robert Mau
Hi...does anyone who reads this board know of anyone who worked for Field's display in the mid- to late 70s? I'm trying to track-down some props that Field's used - stained-glass windows, to be exact. Please contact me directly if you have this information! Robert.mau AT comcast.net
Date: Monday, March 8, 2010 6:55 pm CT
Posted by: Foster A
In the following link are lots of references to department store dining at various U.S. department stores. Naturally, Marshall Field's Walnut Room is mentioned frequently.
(It should be noted that many of the restaurants at the regional department stores were closed as soon as macy's took over.)
http://chowhound.chow.com/topics/614162
Date: Monday, March 8, 2010 12:24 pm CT
Posted by: M.L.
Here's my opinion:
The statements by macy officials about how "great" the sales revenues are at the State Street store are likely a complete falsehood. I'm a retiree and I have friends or all ages who are still working there. I keep hearing from them that it is only Mr. Lundgren's pride that the figures have been "exagerated" to put it mildly. According to them, the store is virtually empty in many departments. Those tourists who do want to come in out of curiousity and regard for its history and iconic culture as a tourist destination, are scared off, I hear, by the awfully loud music in the cosmetics department. I believe that the store's figures are increasingly in decline since the MF days..despite what the officials would want the public to know. If it weren't so pitifully sad about what has been to the venerable Marshall Field's, the employees joke while off-duty, about what the figures are in Mr. Lundgren's fantasy world, and what is true in reality.
Date: Sunday, March 7, 2010 9:01 pm CT
Posted by: gle
On WTTW Channel 11 "Chicago Tonight" for March 5, 2010, Elizabeth Brackett interviewed Monee Fields-White from "Crain's" on "Chicago area Macy's are delivering big profits."
Some things from the interview:
Ms. Brackett said "A store that's answering questions positively is Macy's, apparently that's had a surprisingly good last quarter--why?"
Ms. Fields-White responded that they are starting to see people come back to the store, but admitted they've had their share of troubles as well. She quoted Macy's as saying they had double digit sales growth for last December compared with the previous December, and mentioned things we already know such as Macy's doing a "complete overhaul" of their approach with the My Macy's initiative.
Brackett asked, "Has the Marshall Field's legacy still hurt Macy's?"
Field's White replied, "I think there are still some long fans of Marshall Field's who are not going to Macy's, but we have to keep in mind that a lot of what's going on with Macy's has to do with the economy."
Brackett responded, "But Macy's seems to be going against the economy. Sales are improving at a much bigger rate than other stores, right?"
Fields-White admitted that this was just for one quarter, and the the double digit is just for December. "We still have a long way to go for retailers across the board," she added. "They still have to deal with the skittish consumer," and "they are not running through the doors." She mentioned that Macy's is doing things other retailers are doing such as coming out with exclusive lines such as Coles, etc.
The entire interview can be viewed at:
http://www.wttw.com/main.taf?p=42,1
One can click the contact icon to reply. IT'S STILL THE ECONOMY?
Date: Sunday, March 7, 2010 9:01 pm CT
Posted by: denise r
Thanx to Erick (for posting about it) and to Pat C. for alerting me...to the 4/6 event at the Mt Prospect library about M.F. Have already registered. I'm still the same fan and supporter...just haven't been on here for awhile!
Date: Saturday, March 6, 2010 10:55 pm CT
Posted by: drew
The "merchandising genius" never ceases to amaze! An exclusive clothing and lingerie line inspired by Madonna! What I can't determine is the target audience for this merchandise. For today's teen and pre-teen girls, Madonna certainly is NOT an attraction; today's women who enjoyed Madonna in the 1980s and 1990s have moved on to professional fashion attire and are highly unlikely to identify with a has-been rock star.
Maybe the genius figured Madonna clothing would complement the 1980s Tommy Hilfiger men's fashions. Will Three-Headed Terry soon announce "exclusive" deals with Members Only and Jordache to accompany the "budget" lines from Kenneth Cole? Perhaps the Red Star hair salons could bring back the "mullet" to go with their retro "designers."
You shoppers in Chicago are fortunate that your Red Star stores have duct tape on the broken floor tiles. I was in a suburban Pittsburgh Red Star this evening; just a casual walk through the store revealed cracked and chipped floor tiles, frayed and faded carpeting, "bald" entrance mud mats, painted walls with the outlines of letters long removed, dusty shelves, mirrors covered with fingerprints and peeling wallpaper. There is much space between the display cases and the various discolorations on the carpet show where fixtures have been removed. I had posted earlier the Red Star had been maintaining their Pittsburgh area stores, but that is no longer the case.
Someone mentioned the Red Star store at the Waterfront (a lifestyle center on the site of the historic Homestead Works steel mills) had gobs of glue on the sides of the building where the Kaufmann's name had been removed. It's like they ripped off the letters and didn't bother to clean up the residue before they slapped up the Red Star. The Waterfront store was one of the smaller formats May Company was trying and was one of Kaufmann's newest stores. From what I understand, this relatively new store is getting rather shabby around the edges and the Red Star has done nothing to maintain it.
Date: Saturday, March 6, 2010 9:01 pm CT
Posted by: A Field's Fan
Today's New York Times had a story that talked about small corporate shareholders banding together to make their voices heard over the giant institutional shareholders at various corporations.
Although Macy's was not discussed, the description of activities and strategies sounded a lot like those emploted by Daniel Harcourt and others in recent years during the annual Macy's, Inc shareholders meetings held in May in Cinci.
The full article can be viewed at:
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/06/your-money/stocks-and-bonds/06money.html
Date: Saturday, March 6, 2010 8:21 pm CT
Posted by: lisa house
ive been going in marshall fields since i could walk!!! how dare they sell a chicago landmark and staple of chicago history to macy,s department store!!! i spent just about every weekend there with my family and cried the day i found out that they were bought out!!! this cannot stay a reality!!! marshall fields must come back to chicago!!!
Date: Saturday, March 6, 2010 3:23 pm CT
Posted by: Paul
Page 12 of today's Sun-Times has an ad that caught my eye! It would catch yours too. The border looked just like the striped Marshall Field's bags! It was actually an ad for a St. Pat's giveaway of a gas card by the newspaper.
Date: Saturday, March 6, 2010 2:20 pm CT
Posted by: Philly Joe
Here is a reference to the Food Hall at Strawbridge & Clothier's department store of Philadelphia. It refers to the demise of the Food Hall, thanks to the "macyfication" of America. Seems the term "macyfication" has become a new word in America's vocabulary. The first time I saw it was on your Field's Fans blogsite. Now, often, as I travel the country I read and hear people use that term and it is NOT in a positive manner either---far from it!
http://goliath.ecnext.com/coms2/gi_0199-7216304/In-full-bloom-fresh-food.html
Macy's and its president have destroyed the regional retailing icons that were the American Scene. It's true that Macy's has become just another "Wal*Mart" with its stores blanketing every city across the nation, dropping any and all aspects of customer service, and selling lower-grade merchandise. Macy's is bland shopping at its worst!
Date: Friday, March 5, 2010 7:42 pm CT
Posted by: GRA58
So Macy's is doing away with gift wrapping. Who will notice? I doubt many buy gifts at Macy's. I sure don't. I'd be embarrassed to give a gift from the carpetbaggers. And I have put friends and family on notice to NEVER buy me a gift from Macy's.
As far as double digit gains at State Street goes, it's easy to make statistics say anything. If you only had one customer and now you have two, that's a 100% increase in customers! 100% increase! Big deal. They've been beaten down so far even a small uptick in traffic would register as a big percentage gain. Release the actual numbers and let us see for ourselves. I've walked through the store and there aren't many customers in there. I see occasional Macy's bags on the street, but not many. And no one I know actually shops there.
Date: Friday, March 5, 2010 3:46 pm CT
Posted by: F.
Was in Nordstrom's flagship in Seattle last Friday and had to buy a hostess gift as we were staying with friends in Vancouver for two nights for some Winter Olympics events.
I asked if there was a charge for gift wrapping and the clerk was almost offended that I considered there would be a charge. I related that in different times I would have walked the several blocks to the F&N/MAFCO store to do my shopping, but the RED M just was a waste of time. He laughed, and said they hear that a lot! The BAY (Hudsons' Bay Co) in Vancouver reminded me a lot of the Marshall Fields of our memory. A bit short on personnel, but great merchandise tastefully displayed.
Date: Friday, March 5, 2010 9:23 am CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Today's Friday edition of the Chicago Tribune has an expanded article by Sandra Jones about the discontinuation of gift wrapping services not only at Macy's, but other retailers such as Lord & Taylor. Carson Pirie Scott still retains the service. The article is very thorough and well-researched. One can leave comments afterwards.
Date: Friday, March 5, 2010 7:34 am CT
Posted by: PeteThe past few days there have been a lot of Bloomingdale's ads in the Chicago Tribune. Among them is an ad promoting an event at Bloomingdale's on Michigan Avenue where one can meet performers from the Billy Elliot musical that will open soon at the Ford Oriental.
The ads and the events suggest that Macy's is trying to recruit former Marshall Field's shoppers to Bloomingdale's since they are not happy at Macy's.
Remember that Bloomingdale's is also a Macy's store.
Date: Thursday, March 4, 2010 3:55 pm CT
Posted by: ZsaThe Great Marshall Field's clock tops Chicago's 173rd Birthday cake.
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=3848046&id=47497857427
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=3847622&id=47497857427
Date: Thursday, March 4, 2010 1:52 pm CT
Posted by: MJ-bosThe mailer I received indicated not only the elimination of gift wrap, but also ELIMINATION OF FREE ALTERATIONS FOR PLATINUM/ELITE CARDHOLDERS.
So to all of the best customers, no more gift wrap and no more free alterations. We love you, come and see us soon, here's some coupons.
I'd say Macy's is becoming more like Kohl's everyday, but I actually like Kohl's and wouldn't want to tarnish them by comparing to Macy's.
Date: Thursday, March 4, 2010 9:24 am CT
Posted by: Christopher S.Dear all:
I saw the announcement about the new lines. Again, Macy's is trying to be hip and trendy, when there are other stores that do that much better (think Banana Republic). I also saw that Dillard's stock has done very well this year as a "regional department store."
I recall reading a very good article in one of the business magazines last year concerning Macy's decision to shutter its regional monikers. The columnist expressed frustration that Macy's is always trying to push trendy house-brand lines associated with second-tier celebrities, like Donald Trump. What is amazing is that Macy's could easily capture the hearts of the old-time department store lovers by making lines named after their acquisitions: Marshall Field's, Filene's, Rich's, etc.
Well, the obvious is never obvious to the brass in Macy's. Probably for the best, considering what sort of quality might be associated with those labels.
Best,
Christopher
Date: Thursday, March 4, 2010 6:37 am CT
Posted by: Susan NYI suppose this is only about boxes and paper and some kind of string. An unnecessary expense.
Apparently studies have not been made in which the value of gift wrap to a store is accurately assessed. My husband is a craftsman and he supplies very nice gift boxes and gift wrapping - free. Why?
Because it makes receiving that gift an event. A gift is supposed to be an event, right? Trademark gift wrap makes the event distinctive-- one associated with the unique production of one particular craftsman. It is like framing a picture vs taping it on the wall or kicking it around on the desk. It reinforces the perception of purchaser and recipient that this is a Wonderful Thing. They come back for more.
In this era greedy for sensory stimulation like movie explosions and chili peppers.... one would think a Macy's would understand that. I must testify that getting a gift in the old white enamel gift boxes was effective..... you knew something good was inside and the excitement mounted. It was equally satisfying to be the giver of the gift. (The flimsy green boxes were a serious lapse but at least displayed the RIght Name.)
Pushing the customer away with a pricey, lovingly selected gift shifting around the bottom of a plastic a bag is a turnoff. In the case of an uninteresting store I would think they need all the help they can get.
Date: Wednesday, March 3, 2010 5:12 pm CT
Posted by: gleMessy's is announcing new lines for spring (including more Martha Stewart) on their official website www.macysinc.com. I won't be giving any of this as a gift, with our without wrap.
"New Exclusive Brands Launch at Macy's for Spring"
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1398367&highlight=
"Macy's and Kenneth Cole Productions Sign Strategic Alliance Agreement for New Men's Sportsware Line:
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1397448&highlight=Date: Wednesday, March 3, 2010 5:10 pm CT
Posted by: gleMessy's is cutting their gift-wrap service, not that anyone wants a gift from Messy's anyway:
>From "Crain's Chicago Business:"
"Macy's trims gift-wrapping services" March 3, 2010 by Monee Fields-White
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/cgi-bin/news.pl?id=37300&ba=1
>From the "Chicago Sun-Times:"
"Department store gift wrapping may become a thing of the past" March 3, 2010 by Sandra Guy
http://www.suntimes.com/business/currency/2080980,CST-NWS-mgifts03.article
>From the "Chicago Tribune:"
"Macy's ends gift-wrap services, except at State St." March 3, 2010 by Sandra M. Jones
http://www.chicagobreakingbusiness.com/2010/03/macys-gift-wrap-service-except-at-state-st.html
All of these publications have comment blogs, with free easy registration
Date: Wednesday, March 3, 2010 5:00 pm CT
Posted by: Field's FansThree articles on the discontinuation of wrapping paper services at Chicago-area stores except State Street.
Sun-Times:
www.suntimes.com/business/currency/2080980,CST-NWS-mgifts03.article
Tribune:
http://www.chicagobreakingbusiness.com/2010/03/macys-gift-wrap-service-except-at-state-st.html
Crains:
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/cgi-bin/news.pl?id=37300&ba=1
Comments are always a big help to the cause.
Date: Wednesday, March 3, 2010 3:54 pm CT
Posted by: Sean CI didn't really think of this until I was walking down State Street last week...but...why is the section of State Street not given an "Honorary Marshall Field Way" designation??Date: Wednesday, March 3, 2010 10:40 am CT
Posted by: JCSo...let me see if I've got this right--Macy's is eliminating its gift wrap service (which it charges up to $16 for) at all stores except State Street. Apparently, people aren't willing to payB up to $16 for each item. Another "exciting" change! (Weren't things supposed to stay the same and we were would not see any differences between the Field's and macy stores?!)
So, to make up for this one more cut in service, macy's is trying to appease us in the same press release, by offering the new cheaper Kenneth Cole Reaction line of apparel. Does this make sense? Oh, wait, this is macy's and nothing they do makes business sense and customer service. I'm doing my shopping at Nordstrom and Von Maur. (Von Maur does not charge at all for handsome, high quality gift wrap, plus VM ships any package free of charge within the U.S.
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/cgi-bin/news.pl?id=37300&ba=1
Date: Tuesday, March 2, 2010 5:31 pm CT
Posted by: gle
I was rather amazed and disappointed to see "Crain's," the professional business publication, quoting the "Sun-Times" which was in turn quoting Terry Lundgren's chronic rosy denial, with no publication providing research of their own or back-up data for Lundgren's statements. It seems someone could have at least LOOKED for a second opinion. There are those, such as poster Zelda and other concerned Chicagoans, who find it no trouble to spend time at the State Street store and probably have a more accurate eyewitness account of what is really going on (or rather NOT going on). It really shouldn't be so hard for the papers to go check these things out.
Date: Friday, February 26, 2010 3:43 pm CT
Posted by: Erick
North Suburban Mt. Prospect Library Holds "Remembering Marshall Field & Company" lecture on Tuesday, April 6, 7:30pm. Leslie Goddard, PH.D.traces the store's history as a dry goods operation in 1852 to world-class fashion and service trendsetter. there will be photos and vintage ads of the store's cherished traditions, including Great Tree, Windows Displays and the Walnut Room.
Date: Friday, February 26, 2010 1:30 pm CT
Posted by: ed
Why doesn't Walgreen's do New York what they have done to Chicago? (Referring to their recent buy-out of Duane Read.) Because they realize unlike Macy's that it is not a good business decision.
Date: Thursday, February 25, 2010 7:52 pm CT
Posted by: Zelda
Hi, Field's Fans!
The article in the Sun-Times about the huge sales figures at the Marshall Field's flagship store are another instance of Lundgren telling "the Big lie." I walk through that store 5-10 times per week, and believe me, it is not thriving. Nordstrom in Oak Brook, where I now do most of my shopping, is full of people, and the atmosphere is very positive. Escalators are never out of order, there is no duct tape on the marble tiles and no missing door handles. I did see a few more macy's bags around the holidays, but it was nothing to write home about. When the real figures about what store is doing what business are not out there, it's easy to make up stories. But Lundgren (a/k/a "Lied Again") isn't fooling any of us in Chicago.
Date: Thursday, February 25, 2010 4:56 pm CT
Posted by: C.C. Chicago
Thank you, gle, for that tip on the Sun-Times article on Feb. 24th by Sandra Guy. For some reason, I am unable to comment on their blog, so I will send an e-mail.
It makes me wonder WHICH store the reporter and Terry Lundgren are talking about. Not the one on State Street. And WHAT lady is finding what she wants? (Not me.)
I think Macy's is two steps below Carson's and it is even making Sears look good to me. I will go out of my way to shop at Nordstrom, Carson's, Lord & Taylor, etc., etc. rather than go to Macy's, until Marshall Field's returns to State Street.
Date: Thursday, February 25, 2010 4:16 pm CT
Posted by: Mike
Chicagoist has "parrotted" Sandra Guy's story with Terry Lundgren in yesterday's Sun-Times.
http://chicagoist.com/2010/02/25/chicago_macys_boasts_soaring_profit.phpIt would be very helpful to our cause if you would take a few moments to comment in the section after the writing. A Facebook or Chicagoist registration is required.
Date: Wednesday, February 24, 2010 10:01 pm CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels
My observation about the magic of Macy's: The store is simply one sales event after another. Hey, wasn't that what the wacky folks at Macy's claimed was wrong with Field's? Remember Lundgren claiming Field's just had too many sales? His "expert plan" was to offer "everyday value pricing" and not rely on sales. Or on coupons. Hmm. I guess that is why Macy's calls them "shopping passes."
By now you all know the Macy's game: Markup house brand merchandise to incredibly high prices so you can put it on sale at 50% off. But it is still not a good deal considering the lack of quality workmanship, fabrics, fit and styling. ICK.
Date: Wednesday, February 24, 2010 5:30 pm CT
Posted by: gle
This Lundgren-propaganda from the "Sun-Times" has me spitting mad. I don't know what they take Chicago for.
"Sales soar at Chicago Macy's, Bid to woo Field's fans may be working" February 24, 2010 by Sandra Guy
http://www.suntimes.com/business/2066615,CST-NWS-MACYS24.article
There is a comment blog with free, easy registration. Letters to the "Sun-Times" can also be sent to letters@suntimes.com and sguy@suntimes.com.
On another note, I have never had the slightest interest in being like Madonna (Macy's latest celeb).
Date: Wednesday, February 24, 2010 5:10 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Sandra Guy and the Chicago Sun-Times have a story with Terry Lundgren, saying that sales are up double-digits at State Street. What Lundgren doesn't say is how much sales are down from 2005 or 2006.
It's important to comment for Field's. Newspapers consider even 24 or 25 letters to the editor to be an important response.
The Sun-Times article and a Crain's article about it can be found at the URLs below; you will also find a copy of my response.
Repsonses to the Sun-Times can be sent to letters@suntimes.com, reporter Sandra Guy, psmith@suntimes.com and feedback@suntimes.com
Be sure to keep a copy of the letter for yourself.
Be sure to leave comments for Crains after the article as well.
Sun-Times:
http://www.suntimes.com/business/2066615,CST-NWS-MACYS24.article
Crains:
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/cgi-bin/news.pl?id=37218
My general comments:
Regarding If the "double-digit" increase in sales was anything to crow about, why doesn't Macy's, CEO, President and Chairman Terry Lundgren release the exact figures for the State Street store, both for the closing year and the year before (and before that)?
When Target (nee Dayton-Hudson) owned Marshall Field's, such figures were forthcoming. After four years, Macy's likes to put forth positive information, but has yet to offer any hard numbers. Please also keep in mind, that Mr. Lundgen likes to lump together the number of former Dayton's and Hudson's store locations with those of former Marshall Field's locations; he also does not offer how the flagship drew sales and profits for suburban locations.
Here are some hard facts: On February 27, 2007, Crain's ChicagoBusiness.com noted that Illinois Department of Revenue was required to make a special inquiry in the significant drop in sales tax revenues generated by Macy's in the Chicago area. This would imply that the former Chicago-area Field's locations suffered a dramatic drop in sales.
So now Mr. Lundgren says sales are up by double-digits at State Street from last year. What were sales last year at State Street? How about in 2008 or 2007? Anyone can claim anything.
In 2006 articles that appeared here in the Sun-Times and elsewhere, Mr. Lundgren claimed that Chicago shoppers wouldn't care if the local stores were run as Marshall Field's or Macy's. No exact results or numbers were given, but the Sun-Times published the claim anyways.
Ms. Guy writes "...(the Lady) is getting what she wants at Macy's." Really?
Last Spring, FieldsFansChicago.org conducted an anonymous survey of 522 State Street and Michigan Avenue shoppers. 78% said that they preferred the local stores as Marshall Field's more than Macy's and also that they would shop the local stores more if they were converted back to Macy's. MOE = +/-4.23% < 5.0% and a CI = 95% 72% said that they shopped the stores less since the conversion of Chicago Field's locations to Macy's.
These results were presented in person by myself to Mr. Lundgren at the annual Macy's, Inc shareholders meeting in Cincinnati on May 15, 2009. Mr. Lundgren refused to comment except to say that sales were up at State Street. Mr. Lundgren offered no hard numbers.
This same information and statistics were also sent to the Sun-Times--including Ms. Guy-and were never published or referred to in any way. Had Ms. Guy responded, she also would have been invited as were others to observe the surveying process and how the results were obtained.
The exact numbers can be viewed at http://www.FieldsFansChicago.org/index.html#survey
Whatever happened to journalistic integrity? The Sun-Times claims to offer the Chicago side of the story. Many of the supporters express disgust not only at Mr. Lundgren and Macy's but also the severely tilted coverage by Ms. Guy of Macy's. When will Ms. Guy and the Sun-Times offer a fully-balanced story on this topic? It's been years, really. Not only is it sad as to what has become of Chicago's international icon, Marshall Field's, it is also sad what has happened to the Sun-Times business pages.
James J. McKay
jjmckay@FieldsFansChicago.org
Co-Organizer
FieldsFansChicago.org
Date: Tuesday, February 23, 2010 8:47 pm CT
Posted by: L. Ayres
Let's take a minute and pretend we are in the the beautiful MF&Co. State Street store prior to September, 2006, when macy*s took over:
http://www.galenfrysinger.com/chicago_marshall_field_store.htm
Date: Tuesday, February 23, 2010 5:29 pm CT
Posted by: gle
Here are some of Messy's latest attempts to paint a rosy picture:
>From the "Chicago Tribune:"
"Macy's moves to 4th-quarter profit on lower expenses; focuses on localization efforts" February 23, 2010 by Michelle Chapman, AP Business Writer
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/sns-ap-us-earns-macys,0,7306875.story
>From the "Chicago Sun-Times:"
"Macy's returns to 4Q profit, helped by lower costs" February 23, 2010 by Associated Press
http://www.suntimes.com/business/earnings/2065239,Macys-profit-up.article
The same from Messy's official website www.macysinc.com:
"Macy's, Inc. Reports Strong Fourth Quarter Results that Exceed Expectations"
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1394021&highlight=
And more views from the "Chicago-Tribune:"
"Stocks pull back after worse-than-expected consumer confidence report; dow falls 100" February 23, 2010 by Stephen Bernard, AP Business Writer
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/sns-ap-us-wall-street,0,7695507.story
Date: Monday, February 22, 2010 9:26 pm CT
Posted by: GRA58
I walked though the State Street store today to get from Wabash Avenue to State Street. The aisles were so cluttered with displays it was hard to get through, not that many were trying. Just a hand full of people on the main floor. I can't imagine what the traffic is like on the upper floors. There must be cobwebs. None of the few customers I saw had bags that indicated a purchase. How can this place stay in business? How long can Macy's stubbornly hang on to their mistake? Where are the shareholders? Where is the board of directors?
Date: Monday, February 22, 2010 2:31 pm CT
Posted by: drew
Employee layoffs, decreased services, dropping sales--and the Red Star "earns" a profit based on cutbacks.
http://seekingalpha.com/article/189913-earnings-preview-macy-s?source=yahoo
How much longer can Lungreed run his games without Wall Streer questioning the long-term results of his "slash and burn" methodology?
Date: Monday, February 22, 2010 11:58 am CT
Posted by: Phyllis
I just read on retailwire.com this morning that Madonna will be the latest to join Terry Lundgren's favorite "celebrities" to tell us we should shop at macy*s.
Date: Sunday, February 21, 2010 10:11 pm CT
Posted by: S.B.
Who says boycotts don't last? I personally haven't stepped foot in a Macy's since the takeover. There is no way I'm going to ruin my fond memories of Marshall Field's... especially State Street. Now mind you that I purchase things for myself, my family, and have gone to many weddings over the years. All those dollars went somewhere else Nordstrom, Von Maur, Banana Republic, etc. The entire takeover has taught me about the important purchasing power one has each day. Each day we have a small vote (but a vote nonetheless) to make our voice be heard. Mine has been loud and clear - Bring Back Marshall Field's.
Date: Sunday, February 21, 2010 3:26 pm CT
Posted by: Phil
Macys:
Please do the right thing and bring back everything about Marshall Field's that made it the real destination of Chicago. Your sales revenues would surge. Just changing the name back to Marshall Field's on a macy's store will not be enough.
Date: Sunday, February 21, 2010 3:17 pm CT
Posted by: Patricia
Some interesting comments especially when it comes to where Macy's did their polling for the infamous "survey" back in 2006. Certainly NOT at State Street, OakBrook, Old Orchard, Northbrook.
http://knitandrun97.blogspot.com/2007/11/take-me-to-marshall-fields.html
Date: Saturday, February 20, 2010 8:06 pm CT
Posted by: Samantha
I'm a front desk clerk at a major downtown Chicago hotel. You would not believe how many guests check-out with words such as:
"My visit to Chicago was just not the same without Marshall Field's.
*(But then, you probably would believe how many!)
Date: Saturday, February 20, 2010 1:31 pm CT
Posted by: gle
From www.macysinc.com webiste,
"Macy's, Inc. Board Declares Quarterly Dividend"
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1393189&highlight=
Date: Saturday, February 20, 2010 12:35 am CT
Posted by: J.F.
Macy's, Inc, has created the biggest blunder in modern day retailing business. As my professor at our university stated: "The easiest thing in retailing is to build on an existing customer base, keeping everything that has built that particular name. merchandising and culture and further building and enhancing it. By changing the legendary famous name and lowering the merchandising quality and service level, you lose the loyal customers, and the new management needs to go out and seek an entire new customer base and increase revenue, which is difficult, if not impossible."
Date: Friday, February 19, 2010 10:49 pm CT
Posted by: Michael Smith
Just for giggles I went on www.visitmacyschicago.com and looked under the dining category and the Walnut Room is missing. Please don't tell me that they closed that too.
Date: Friday, February 19, 2010 10:25 pm CT
Posted by: drew
The Lundgrinch FINALLY got something right! According to a news item on KDKA Pittsburgh, macy*mart will discontinue gift wrapping services as of March 1. Perhaps he realized shoppers don't look to macy*mart as a source for gifts and he noticed his main competitors (walmart and Kmart) sell gift bags in their card departments. (I think many people would be INSULTED to receive a cheap, tacky gift from macy*mart anyway.) Another way to cut expenses and another reason for shoppers to go elsewhere.
I find it amazing the the macy*mart board can approve a shareholder dividend despite steadily declining sales. Lundgrinch cuts merchandise offerings and services that attract shoppers, throws away the core customer base, destroys the goodwill value of department stores across the nation, yet nobody on the board can see that his "strategy" isn't sustainable and that the chain will be a train wreck very shortly.
Date: Friday, February 19, 2010 8:53 pm CT
Posted by: James C. of Mpls
A sad day in 2006 in Minneapolis (and all over):
http://www.startribune.com/business/15382761.html
The beautiful cursive signature signs of Marshall Field's being taken down.
I appreciate the comments of Mr. Marx regarding the so-called "magic" of macy's not taking hold.
Date: Friday, February 19, 2010 4:18 pm CT
Posted by: Nina G.
There was a rumor recently that Madonna was going to design (or more probably "authorize") a line of clothing for Macy's.
I can assure you this would not have even been CONSIDERED by Marshall Field's!
Date: Friday, February 19, 2010 1:14 pm CT
Posted by: Frederick N.
Remember when Macy's predicted in Sept 2006 that Macy's would win over Marshall Field's customers by Thanksgiving, 2006?
Here is an November, 2006 article in which Macy's CEO Terry Lundgren admits that the changeover from Field's to Macy's was becoming more difficult than originally thought, two months later. What's ironic is that by Feb, 2010, Field's shoppers are more resistant than ever!
http://www.allbusiness.com/retail-trade/food-stores/4214129-1.html
Date: Friday, February 19, 2010 12:01 am CT
Posted by: Linda Simons
I'm so happy to see that Walgreens is planning to keep Duane Reade's name on its stores in New York. They are doing it the classy way, not the Macy's way.
Date: Thursday, February 18, 2010 5:59 pm CT
Posted by: C.C. Chicago
I was thinking some more about what made Marshall Field's different from Macy's. Marshall Field's aspired to the BEST store in the world with the best possible merchandise, food items, service, return policy, etc. It was the classiest store on State St. It lifted you up. It showed you what was possible. Many people who worked there were proud and honored to be a part of it.
Macy's aspires to ... do what? Try to sell you some of the cheapest junk they can find at the highest possible price? Lure you into their stores with fake coupons that don't apply to any of the items that you select? Turn Chicago into another suburb of New York? The more I think about it, the more it reminds me of the old Goldbblatt's on State St., but I think Goldblatt's was actually better.
Date: Thursday, February 18, 2010 8:54 am CT
Posted by: D.J. of NYC
I remember on that day in Sept 2006 when Terry Lundgren and Frank Guzetta proclaimed that "macy*s would be the sensation across the nation" and that the ardent Field's supporters would bend and forget all about Marshall Field's by Thanksgiving, 2006!
Well, as retail analysts and just about everyone realizes, your Boycott of Macy's and Bloomingdale's has had major impacts in many ways. You are to be admired and respected. Your dedicated work and devotion is not going by unnoticed, let me tell you...by Wall Street...and by Macy's Inc execs!
I'm sure Terry Lundgren has to be wishing he could "re-do" his poor decision to get rid of Field's and the other signature department store names, service and merchandising across the country.
How can people get "excited" about a macy's when they travel from New York to Chicago, Honolulu, Houston, Miami and on and on?! Would YOU get all excited and make a point to make macy's your travel point on your vacation. It's the same as getting "excited" about seeing a K-Mart, Sears, Kohl's, Penney's etc. It doesn't work that way, Terry.
Date: Wednesday, February 17, 2010 10:21 pm CT
Posted by: Bernie L.
I wear my "I WANT MY MARSHALL FIELD'S" pin all the time, and I get more than a dozen comments of encouraging support each day.
During the week I wear it when I see patients, doing business at the bank, or riding the train. On the week-end, I get lots of agreeable remarks at the grocery store, at the gym and at church. When I travel on business, I have received supportive comments for Field's at airports and hotels in the U.S. and all over the world!
Field's Fans are all over and they will continue to miss Marshall Field's until Marshall Field's returns as we knew it before Macy's destroyed this historical, social and retail icon!
Date: Wednesday, February 17, 2010 5:42 pm CT
Posted by: Bob Calvert
The Famous-Barr store in Columbia, Missouri is completely empty now that messy's took over. It used to be packed! And they downsized the floors of the historic downtown St. Louis store from 7 to 3. At its height, like 10 floors were used for shopping. People even in Missouri have heard of Marshall Field's! They need to bring back not only Marshall Field's, but also Missouri's own department store, Famous-Barr!
Date: Wednesday, February 17, 2010 3:38 pm CT
Posted by: Richard in Houston
I just read that Macy's is in talks with, of all people, Madonna to launch her own clothes and intimates line. They are so out of touch at Macy's. Are they going to recruit every has been celebrity to launch their own cheaply made, trashy lines to attract shoppers? I already see so much Donald Trump, Sean John, Martha Stewart and others at Ross and TJ Maxx it is rediculous. When is the board of directors going to wake up and smell the coffee? Bring back the quality, service and personality of Marshall Fields (and other iconic stores).
http://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/blog/2010/02/madonna_macys_working_on_apparel_line.html
Date: Wednesday, February 17, 2010 1:32 pm CT
Posted by: C. C. Chicago
1. I can't find the clothes I'm looking for, such as Tape Measure and Field Gear, (the brands are too numerous to name,) or nice clothes that I'd want to wear.
2. There's hardly any food being served in the basement food court. I can't believe people are less hungry now that it's Macy's.
3. I can't find a nice gift item in jewelry. It's either cheap junk or extremely expensive.
4. Ditto in socks and hosiery. They either have cheap, ugly socks, or outrageously expensive socks. The last time I was there, I had to practically beg a sales person to help me find a pair of tights. (I did find one pair, but it's a brand that you can get anywhere.)
5. The horribly loud, annoying music in cosmetics on the first floor. It doesn't make me want to shop there. It makes me want to get out of there as fast as I can. It's worth it to get on the Blue Line, then take a bus to Harlem to go to a Carson's.
Date: Wednesday, February 17, 2010 6:17 am CT
Posted by: Susan NY
Would it bother me to learn that Harrod's had been bought and eviscerated by Macy's? Yes- I have been there once with a million others, shouldertoshoulder, and to Liberty. It was good for my soul. Even though that is the extent of my experience there, it would be very upsetting to see either one Macyized. Maybe if I had never been there I would shrug it off.
Likewise out here in NY state, relatively few have had the chance to experience Field's at State, at least among those in my world here. So no one even remarks upon my button and when I explained it to a few I got bemused looks. Even my husband-a native NYer-shocked me the other day, dismissing Field's as a "dinosaur." Supposedly he understands these things. He has been to Field's, but shopping is something he avoids -- so the moral is -- from anti-shoppers and aliens, especially in the same body, one must expect superior uncomprehending dismissal. Maddening, but a Fact of Life.
So at the moment I take some consolation from the fact that Harrod's is apparently still showing it can be done. And charmed as I was by Harrod's and Liberty, I still consider Field's the best. Without it the world is tipped off its axis as far as I am concerned.
And lookie-- Liberty and Target teaming up!
http://adland.tv/commercials/target-liberty-london-2010-30
I'll be right over! Who'da thought?!
Not the Lundgrench- he's got Clorox on his team! Oh- yes, and Martha. Or did she leave..
Note from the Webmaster: It should be noted that Marshall Field's sold Martha Stewart merchandise for several years before Macy's did. Field's had a Martha Stewart furniture collection.
Date: Tuesday, February 16, 2010 5:50 pm CT
Posted by: gle
I really enjoy the slide show posted by Ellie Johnson. I remember much of those times.
Date: Tuesday, February 16, 2010 8:54 am CT
Posted by: B.K.
Just wanted to let you know that I've got two of your buttons and everyone who sees them completely agrees!
Date: Tuesday, February 16, 2010 4:45 am CT
Posted by: L.M.
CEO/Pres/Chairman Lundgren of Macy's, Inc. has ruined shopping for me and millions of others. Macy*s is bland and no-frills shopping. Why would potential customers make a special effort to travel to Chicago...or anywhere for that matter for Macy*s. Marshall Field's was a world-class destination for countless millions.
Although I have not been an active participant in your rallies, please realize that for each one of you who have actively participated, there are zillions who are quiet, passive boycotters. Trust me. I'm in the travel and hospitality business. Chicago is suffering tremendously by the ultimately poor decision-making and stubborn ego of Terry Lundgren.
Date: Monday, February 15, 2010 4:33 pm CT
Posted by: J. Fitzsimmons
Macy's has not been accepted...nor will it ever be accepted in Chicago. Marshall Field's was a unique experience full of refreshing adventure. Macy*s, just like Walmart, is nothing-special...and it's EVERYWHERE!http://www.namedevelopment.com/blog/archives/2005/09/marshall_fields_rage_rage_against_the_dying_of_the.htmlKeep the boycott up! As others have said: Look for ways to tell others about the successful boycott. Boycott macy*s. Boycott bloomingdale's. Tell everyone you know and everyone you meet.
Date: Monday, February 15, 2010 3:14 pm CT
Posted by: Ellie Johnston
Marshall Field's - The One. The Only! As Chicago as it gets.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=juJTB7fxT6s
Date: Sunday, February 14, 2010 3:13 pm CT
Posted by: gle
I was recently given a copy of a 2002 "Chicago-Tribune" special advertising magazine put out for the 150th anniversary of Marshall Field's. It described in detail with beautiful photos what a great asset and icon Marshall Field's still was to Chicago. Nothing in it said anything about Field's doing poorly or becoming irrelevant, as some would have Field's fans believe. The title was "As Chicago As It Gets." That's the Field's I remember. I'm glad this record is still available for those who would like to pretend or convince others differently.
In the meantime:
Someone at the coffee shop this morning liked my "I want my Marshall Field's" button, and started a discussion about how they went to the Walnut room recently and everything was just dead.
Some friends after church asked me how the Marshall Field's work is going, and said how they hope Field's will be restored.
Chicago remembers the Marshall Field's that celebrated 150 years in 2002. That's the store we want to see on State Street, not Messy's.
Date: Saturday, February 13, 2010 8:23 pm CT
Posted by: drew
Someone mentioned that the Red Star is discontinuing Marshall Field's famous Interior Design service and another person stated that candy departments at suburban stores were being eliminated. Especially appalling was the lengthy list of discontinued departments at the former Foley's locations provided by Richard in Houston. The three-headed "marketing genius" seems hell-bent on dropping and everything that made department stores a destination for shoppers.
May I suggest that the latest Red Star strategy is to pattern itself after the Save-a-Lot and Aldi grocery chains? Unlike "full-service" grocery stores, these chains offer only a limited assortment of basic items in a no-frills environment. One can find essential groceries, but no specialty services (like an in-store deli, pharmacy or floral department) or no gourmet foods. These stores make no attempt to compete with the major grocery chains; they have defined their own niche in the market.
As the Red Star trends toward more bland, generic and boring merchandise and presentation, I predict the stores will become clones of Save-a-Lot and Aldi. The addition of shopping carts, elimination of better quality lines and various merchandise categories, cutbacks in store maintenance and staffing indicate the Red Star will transition even more to a discount store model.
Date: Friday, February 12, 2010 2:24 pm CT
Posted by: Pericles Georgopoulos
I just want to thank everyone at fieldsfanchicago.org for their continuing work to keep alive the name, traditions and legacy of our great Chicago retail institution. I still miss "my store" and I am glad that the conversation is continuing. Keep up the good work.
My mother who worked at Field's in the 50's and was also a life long Field's shopper always used to say to me, "There's no store like Marshall Field's" and that still remains true today.
Pericles Georgopoulos
Date: Friday, February 12, 2010 1:39 pm CT
Posted by: J.L. Florida
I, for one, refuse to shop at ANY Macy's store until Marshall Field's is restored to the Chicago stores and I encourage those I know to do the same. I also do what I can to get that message out.
Date: Friday, February 12, 2010 11:58 am CT
Posted by: drew
To Michael Smith:
The former downtown Pittsburgh Kaufmann's is now a typical Red Star discount-store knockoff. The Tic Toc Restaurant on the first floor is still in operation, but the food isn't anywhere near the quality once served by Kaufmann's. For example, the "peach pie" consists of frozen pie crust and canned peach filling. Even the famous burgers are small, dry and tasteless. As you might remember, there was always a wait for a seat at The Tic Toc--no more! (For those not familiar with Pittsburgh, Kaufmann's clock was a downtown landmark, and The Tic Toc restaurant related to that theme, with various antique clocks adorning the walls. The better restaurants (including Edgar's, name for the store's iconic owner) have closed, as have the various snack bars located throughout the store. The pizza restaurant on the ninth floor has closed, and there only is a limited assortment snack bar. This area has been filled by an expansion of Bradley's Books, a closeout discounter. The gourmet food department is gone, and the candy department (in smaller form) has moved to the Arcade Level. The Red Star IS carrying Pittsburgh made Betsy Ann chocolates. The Arcade Bakery is still in operation, although there are no more in-store baked goodies; it is stocked with Krispy Kreme donuts and a limited assortment of other commercially produced products. Not worth the bother.
All of the floors are still open, although many areas (such as the alcoves holding fine china and crystal collections) have been closed off. The merchandise is spread thin, and there are wide expanses of empty space. The store is never busy, and the lunch time shoppers have disappeared. The first few floors ARE clean and well-maintained, but the upper floors feature dirty, stained carpet and dull, unwaxed tile. Of course, the store is chock full of the typical Red Star faux-designer merchandise that most Pittsburghers consider "New York trash." The men's department is like time travel back to the 1980s with the extensive Tommy Hilfiger collections.
I was speaking with a salesperson who said the downtown store was Kaufmann's number one moneymaker in terms of sales; it is now 685 of 800 macy*marts. The clerk said the executives hold staff meetings and complain about the dismal sales, but refuse to listen to employee comments on WHY the store is doing so poorly. The salesperson said, "They expect us to sell stuff people don't want. Terry Lundgren is running the company into the ground and he has surrounded himself with executives who just don't get it." The salesperson said "Our salaries are in the dumpster because they've cut hours and commissions are a joke because nobody's buying." The salesperson said potential customers come in looking for merchandise Kaufmann's always carried and don't like the styles, quality or prices of the Red Star's merchandise. The salesperson meets former customers in the grocery store, at church or wherever and they always say "I NEVER go to your store because there is never have anything I want.
Supposedly the Red Star is planning a major downsizing of the downtown Pittsburgh store. Since they have cut so many merchandise lines and services, there is really no need to operate so much floor space. It seems every time I walk through the store (which isn't very often), the merchandise assortment gets noticeably smaller and smaller. Lots of thinly stocked shelves and racks of "current" merchandise--but tons and tons of clearance items.
The people in Pittsburgh HAVE moved on and macy*mart is no longer a destination for shoppers. Nobody would consider purchasing a gift from the store because of its low class perception. So many people out here TRIED macy*mart, didn't like what they found, and have gone elsewhere. JC Penney and Kohl's are upgrading, while the Red Star has continuously gone downmarket and is considered an overpriced Kmart rather than a fine department store. "Celebrities" don't impress us much and most shoppers tend to trust national brands instead of Charter Club, INC and Tasso Elbo.
Date: Friday, February 12, 2010 11:13 am CT
Posted by: J.D.
I miss Marshall Field's all the time, but during these cold, gloomy days of winter, the absence is especially poignant.
In January and February, Marshall Field's would be brightening people's spirits...and thereby their sales revenue...with the most attractive, colorful and appealing Spring displays of any store, anywhere! Whenever I wanted a "pick-me-up" I went to Field's, all the time, but particularly to get a Spring "lift"! Spring and Easter colors were everywhere. You could spend an entire day in Field's and leave with a cheerful soul and a refreshed smile on your face, as you stepped out to the remainder of winter!
I tried going to "the store formerly known as Field's", but I actually felt even more depressed than ever. I refuse to go back. (By the way, my MF bill was most often my highest monthly bill to pay.)
I agree with those who say that the continual elimination of fine departments that were Marshall Field's, is a clear signal that macy's revenue is tanking and tanking, more and more. My neighbor who is a university business professor, informs me that whenever a corporation scales back, and eliminates entire departments the way macy's has been doing, it indicates that its business plan has failed and its promises of keeping everything about Field's, is a "shameful sham".
Date: Friday, February 12, 2010 9:36 am CT
Posted by: Richard in Houston
I had to share this one. My wife and daughter went to the mall last night. When they got back my 15 year old said Messy's had tons of racks for $4.99! She said her friends told her at school about it, too, and were talking about how ugly the clothes are there and they should be $4.99. Even the younger generation that they have targeted by writing off generations of Field's, Foley's, Burdine's, Rich's and the other store's customer base hate messy's.
It amazes me how ignorant messy's management is. To keep an established clientele is one of the simplest ways to ensure ongoing profitability. But to purposely ignore and write off your customer base is suicide and sheer stupidity.
Like generations of Chicagoans with Field's, there are generations of Houstonians that have their homes filled with items from Foley's.
I was reading how they are eliminating the interior design studio at Field's. The same thing was done to Foley's. Expect more, unfortunately, as long as the current management is in place.
Here is what has been eliminated in Foley's stores:
Fur Salon, personal shopper, travel agency, restaurants, big and tall shop, designer exclusives, draperies, pillows, decorative accessories (for the most part), Waterford, Christofle, Swarovski, Wedgewood, Lladro, Fine silver, fine china, upper end furniture lines, stationery, toys, books, full candy store that shipped items in fresh daily from downtown along with Godiva, photo studio, watch repair, estate jewelry, beauty salon, carpets, rugs, lamps, fine suit selections like Hart, Schaeffner and Marx and Hickey Freeman and Salon Shoes.
Date: Friday, February 12, 2010 6:38 am CT
Posted by: Susan NY
Ahhhhhh- I remember a hundred years ago in the 6th grade, our very patriotic teacher (and probably a devoted shopper) told us how lucky we were to not be Soviets who had to line up for goods at the one department store, and accept a narrow range of offerings besides. We were so lucky to have all the abundant variety we enjoyed. And I doubt she had a clue what Field's was - this was in Charleston SC. (Belk's! Sorry guys- even as a kid I was sadly aware Belk's was not Marshall Field's)
Well, who's shopping with a smile on the face now?
http://www.gum.ru/en/
(what a neat site!)
(look what architecture does for the shopping experience!)
(I wish they would restore the elegant atrium lighting and clean up signage but - wow)
(in the end, it is still only a mall, a loose association of vendors ............ not our beloved MF downtown, a close association of varied goods under one roof managed at the top by one guiding genius- mmmmmm - what have we lost!)
Date: Thursday, February 11, 2010 9:24 pm CT
Posted by: Michael Smith
Does anyone know the current status of the old Kaufmann's in Pittsburgh. I know the tic toc shop is still there, but how many floors have merchandise on them. Do they still operate the old tea room on the upper floors? I have been trying to find info on the net and haven't been able to find anything...
I remember the 1st time I went to Marshall Field's. I remember the old jazz they used to play and I felt like I was shopping in a palace. I used to travel all the way from NJ once a year to shop there. I will never be able to get over the fact that it is gone.
Date: Wednesday, February 10, 2010 10:25 pm CT
Posted by: A Earl
March 5, 2010 will be the last day for the State Street Interior Design Studio. From my understanding, this department dates back to the late 1800's. Unfortunately, this is another tragedy of the messy takeover. Many administrative positions in the state street store are also being eliminated.
Date: Wednesday, February 10, 2010 4:34 pm CT
Posted by: Judith
No matter where I live in the world or where I shop when I'm there, Marshall Field & Co. will always be my favorite store. I've been going there since before I was old enough to walk. My mom introduced me to shopping in Field's from my stroller! I believed Santa Claus lived at Field's during Christmas as that was the only place I ever "visited" him.
I dream about the old Field's every now and again, and I just can't think of the store as Macys
Date: Tuesday, February 9, 2010 3:42 pm CT
Posted by: Eusabio
I'm really sick of not being able to find what I want at Macy's, and the consumer is stuck buying what there is, and then you have Macy's marketing people telling you that consumer preference is driving the market. From what I can tell, lack of choice is driving the marketplace today. Nobody really cares what the consumers want, as evidenced by most every big box store from Walmart to Kmart and, most especially, Macy's.
"My Macy's" is a joke: I want Marshall Field's as do millions of others.
Date: Monday, February 8, 2010 5:34 pm CT
Posted by: A Field's Fan
If you check out Darrid.com, you will see an amazing archive of what Field's used to be like.
It was by looking at that site that I realized how amazingly better Field's was in that Building than Macy's ever was.
Date: Sunday, February 7, 2010 2:35 pm CT
Posted by: gle
For comparison purposes with the articles on Messy's January sales, here is the "Chicago-Tribune" coverage of Nordstrom's January results:
"Nordstrom January key sales figure rises 14 percent in January, a bigger jump than expected" February 4, 2010 by Associated Press
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/sns-ap-us-nordstrom-sales,0,2805771.story
Date: Sunday, February 7, 2010 1:54 pm CT
Posted by: gle
January sales figures are in at www.Macysinc.com website:
"Macy's, Inc. Same-Store Sales up 3.4% in January"
"Newly Unified Organization Structure and My Macy's Localization Drive Growth; Company Raises Q4 Earnings Guidance Significantly on Better-Than-Expected Sales, Expense Management and Gross Margins"
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1382989&highlight=
Here's the "Chicago Tribune" announcement by "Associated Press:"
"Macy's posts 3.4 percent rise in January sales, credits local management strategy " February 4, 2010 by Associated Press
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/sns-ap-us-macys-sales,0,3107969.storyAnd here is "Chicago Tribune" coverage by "Associated Press" of how many other stores fared, many ahead of Macy's with Nordstrom at 14 percent:
"How chains in 4 key retail sectors fared in January compared with a year earlier" February 4, 2010 by Associated Press
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/sns-ap-us-retail-sales-glance,0,3093242.story
The "Tribune" articles all have comment blogs with free registration.
Date: Saturday, February 6, 2010 3:44 pm CT
Posted by: Kevin
I went to a parish mission at a Catholic church this week. The priest is from Chicago and visited my Church for the past 3 days (that's how long the mission was). He was talking about how a rich lady was going to Water Tower Place and saw a little 8 year old boy at a Walgreen's near by with ripped jeans and everything while it was near Christmas. The lady asked the little boy, "Do you want to get some new clothes?" The little boy was shocked. So he went a long with her. The priest mentioned that the lady & the boy went to a place that "used to be called Marshall Field's" and the lady brought the little boy to the kids section and dressed him up in nice clothing and everything for the cold. It made me smile. It also makes me realize that priests too know the care about ladies, kids & Marshall Field's. Just decided I'd like to share that with you. Oh, I'm a kid, by the way, 15 years old. I'm still supporting your boycott. I had FOLEY'S in '06, but hated the name change ever since. Keep on the tradition forever, FieldsFanChicago!(:
Date: Saturday, February 6, 2010 1:36 pm CT
Posted by: Rich W
Unfortunately another Chicagoland based retailer (who also had the misfortune of being taken over by another dire straits retailer, although they kept their name while changing everything else to the very low standards of the new company) eliminated my job in Chicago and I was very fortunate to find a new job in Omaha, NE. Let me just say this: when Marshall Field's does return, it MUST have the same high standards that the company operated under before. The name means nothing if what the name stands for is tarnished. That is exactly the situation that happened with my previous company. The name may not have been changed, but the product, services and the store brand are light years away from they used to be and the customers are showing it by avoiding the store...sales are horrible! Now onto Omaha. As soon as my cable was connected, my TV was immediately unindated with Messy's commercials. I wanted to scream! It was like a red star twilight zone episode! As I investigated the shopping landscape in Omaha, I figured every mall would have a Messy's. To my surprise, I found out that not only are there NO Messy's in Omaha, the nearest location is in Kansas City, MO- a 3 hour plus drive from Omaha! With all the commercials they waste money on here, there are no local stores. Everyone here wonders why there are commercials but no stores! Messy's comes off as a stupid company here. While not the greatest menu of stores, Omaha does have Younkers (same company as Carson's), Dillard's, Von Maur and the usual suspects- Kohl's, Penney's, Target, Walmart, etc. I guess I can endure the dumb red star commercials as long as I never have to see a store here! March on my friends....Marshall Field's is a brand worth saving and fighting for.
Date: Friday, February 5, 2010 7:36 pm CT
Posted by: Eileen
We look forwaard to receiving a few buttons for ourselves in the UK and for my friend in Sydney, Australia.
We have been devastated by the loss of MF, particularly in State Street - a store we loved and spent many happy >hours (and dollars!) on our trips to Chicago and the Palmer House.
Date: Wednesday, February 3, 2010 11:51 pm CT
Posted by: J.
The Glamorama extravaganza showed Field's glamorous side in being a cultural magnet, as well as a glamorous department store with glamorousB merchanise at all price points, for everyone in their own way. Everyone could feel a bit of glamour in shopping at Field's, no matter their economic status. That was the Field's way. Everyone loves Field's...for Field's, just being Field's!
Date: Tuesday, February 2, 2010 3:22 pm CT
Posted by: (Name Withheld)
I am a Sophomore at ( North side of Chicago) High School.
My friend and I are doing a project for the Chicago History Fair on Marshall Fields and the affect of Marshall Fields on consumerism, the econmy.
I loved Marshall Fields and my mom used to take us downtown the day after Thanksgiving to see the windows. We still do sometimesB downtown just isn't the same for me since Macy's moved into the Marshall Fields Store.
Date: Monday, February 1, 2010 2:04 pm CT
Posted by: Janice D.
I encourage Field's Fans to communicate our boycott against macy's and bloomingdale's, at your work places. During breaks or lunchtime in the employee cafeterias, it's easy to get the word out. Some companies, like ours, permit us to post flyers on the employees' bulletin boards.
You will be amazed the responses. Many, many employees state that they stopped shopping at the ex-Field stores when they became macy's. They further state that they gave macy's a chance, but the clothes fell apart in washing, and the whole shopping experience has lacked the professionalism and the wide array of merchandise that was Field's.
We have been successful in recruiting 2,312 employees at our company who have promised not to shop at the "m" store. Further, all are informing their friends, neighbors and families to boycott macy's and bloomingdale's, so in effect, quite possibly, well over 10,000 people could be contacted by our own effort!
At work, we hear comments that macy's stores in Chicagoland hardly ever have any noticeable amount of shoppers in them. The Chicago area stores HAVE to be losing huge amounts of money, despite macy's executives' claims that the Chicago market is one of macy's top best. Common logic refutes their claims. The stores are practically empty of customers. No wonder macy's has dropped contributing to the Chicago fireworks displays and so many other traditions of Field's. Those are definite signs of macy's failure in Chicago! They are seeing their sales revenues disappear by their own so-called "magic".
Date: Monday, February 1, 2010 5:51 am CT
Posted by: Susan NY
Candy! My first Cadbury chocolate came from the candy counter at 111 N. State! (That was when it WAS imported) Not to mention other goodies. Looks like Fannie May finally triumphed.
In the end-- does a cost-effective store really need to sell candy? Or socks? Or wipes? Or chairs or scooters or forks? How does one whittle the stock down to the most profitable essentials? I guess all we need is Sam's Club- waitaminit- they sell candy there. What are they thinking?
Date: Sunday, January 31, 2010 10:22 am CT
Posted by: One of millions and millions of FF's
In 2007, National Public Radio interviewed organizers at FieldsFansChicago.org, as well as Ms. Linda Piepho, Macy's State Street store manager and others pertaining to the first year of macy's occupying Marshall Field's stores.
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=16411613
Macy's still has not gotten past the "spat". In fact, macy's keeps sinking deeper into the "quick sand" of the worst business decision in retailing history. Ms. Piepho remarked about continuing the traditions of Marshall Field's, however, one-by-one over the past couple of years, they have been eroding away and any references to Marshall Field's traditions have disappeared totally. disappeatinawaseveral
Date: Saturday, January 30, 2010 11:53 pm CT
Posted by: K.H.
While downtown the day after Christmas outside of Macy's, I received a leaflet and button from one of your volunteers. I have been wearing the "I want my Marshall Field's" button on my winter jacket since and I have to say that it has been quite a conversation starter around town. I have had at least a half dozen people say they want one from me.
Date: Friday, January 29, 2010 5:48 pm CT
Posted by: Jeff S.
Sad news; tomorrow (Saturday) is the last day for the candy counter at most of the former Marshall Field stores. I spoke with the woman behind the counter today at the Fox Valley store. She will soon be out of a job. She said after tomorrow all the candy will be boxed or pre-packaged only.
Another Marshall Field specialty Gone With The Wind.
Date: Friday, January 29, 2010 4:45 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Several news outlets have stories about Macy's lay off of about 1,500 employees spread across their 809 retail stores and distribution network. That's about 1% of their employees.
This is no doubt very sad for the employees--those being let go, as well as those who stay.
The version of the story that appears at Crains Chicago Business has become a hotbed of discussion on the loss of Field's. Be sure to stop by and comment, or, a t least, "recommend" the posts that reflect your views.
The story and comments can be viewed at:
Date: Friday, January 29, 2010 2:33 pm CT
Posted by: J.B.
I proudly have not stepped foot in a Macy's since the Marshall Field takeover--and never will!!
Date: Friday, January 29, 2010 11:26 am CT
Posted by: Judith
I noticed a coworker of mine wearing a button about Field's today. She told me that people stop her on the street to comment on it and to offer their support and to commiserate!
My spouse worked at State Street for over 30 years, retiring shortly before the Macy's name went up in Sept. 2006. He was "Field's Finest" three times during his years there.
I look forward to receiving buttons and wearing them.
Date: Thursday, January 28, 2010 8:50 pm CT
Posted by: Field's Fan from Way Back
How many of you Field's Fans remember the uniquely spectacular Vertical Catwalk Style Show as part of the Glamorama extravaganza in 2003 at Marshall Field's State Street Store? (Just click on the link below and you will see the models walking downward from the roof to the sidewalk, being held by suspension cables with the dark green Marshall Field's banners alongside.)
http://promomagazine.com/news/target_fashikonshow_071305/
Talk about something above and beyond...and out-of-sight! That was our Marshall Field's!
Macy's would not...could not)...finance or even properly organize such an event. Macy's still can't figure out hot to repair broken floor tiles with anything but duct tape. Macy's fired all the proud maintenance people, too, who kept the brass MF&Company plaques shining brightly, and all interior areas clean and dusted. Macy's has eliminated all the fine, unique traditions of Marshall Field & Company. Marshall Field's needs to return in all its glory!! We need Marshall Field's.
==========
As I am typing this posting, I am looking at the envelope containing my Marshall Field's charge statement from August, 2002. On the back side of the envelope is a tastefully designed ad for the Field's sponsored GLAMORAMA 2002. Glamorama was truly "Hollywood in Chicago".
Seeing this envelope has caused me to recall how Marshall Field's, even under BATUS, Dayton-Hudson/Target and May ownership,used the envelopes to publicize a different promotional event each month. Each month's billing statement envelope used various colors, script and design to catch the eye in an appealing way.
Since I closed my account when Macy's barged in and took over Field's, I can only assume Macy's envelopes are blank white on the back side, because Macy's is Mr. Lundgren's desired 835 "national" department stores, all basically with the same bland merchandise.
On my desk also is a dark green paper folder the size of a dollar-bill, containing two Marshall Field's cash register receipts from 2001. When I open the folder, I find the new policies affecting returns printed to cause it so stand out and be read by the customer. On the opposite side of the folder is the pocket containing those MF receipts, for which I am pleased.
Marshall Field's style was to do every single thing in a classy way, even to the announcement of the return policies, and advertising the truly EXCITING, distinctive and appealing events at the one-and-only Marshall Field's of Chicago!
I'll bet each of us has a collection of Marshall Field's memorabilia with special meaning. Who would think that someday Marshall Field's shopping bags, tissue paper, gift boxes, wine and champagne bottles, napkins, charge account statements, receipt would mean so much?!
Of course, we thought no one ever would have the audacity to take Marshall Field's away from the most loyal customers there ever have been. We thought Marshall Field's---the institutional, cultural, social, destinational and retailing icon---would be the one thing that would prevail forever in Chicago.
Marshall Field's IS Chicago. Chicago IS Marshall Field's...and always will be!!
Date: Thursday, January 28, 2010 11:22 am CT
Posted by: Susan NY
An open letter to management on behalf of employees and customers:
Since there are so few clerks per square mile of floor nowadays, I suppose all the remaining few can do to bolster sales is push charge accounts at the cash register. They certainly can't do much toward helping you make a selection if you wish; they have all they can do to get the sale rung up. But as a customer I resent being asked about opening an account every time I make a purchase. Upon being pressed a third time by the same clerk, I don't think I would be polite. (SInce I haven't gone to M in a looong time, that has not happened to me.)
A management policy that requires sales staff to hammer customers is disrespectful to both staff and customers - that is beyond bad business. Greed is still one of the Seven Deadly Sins in my book. When, as a shopper, I sense I am little more than a fly buzzing into the management Greednet, I leave.
I also hate being put into the situation by every clerk or server with whom I do business these days, of having to save their jobs for them by going online to rate them. Some customers cannot even do that. I can, but I will not do that. I will not be drawn into a silly management control game which, by the way, relieves managers of the responsibility of exercising managerial discernment. A boss should possess leadership skills, and give attention to duty, enough to know whether a given employee is a good one. It is not rocket science. That is their job, not mine.
A recent restaurant example: although we emphatically declined to hear it, we had a server very uneasily INSIST we hear her recital of the long list of specials, saying apologetically under her breath, she was required to do so. She was required to knowingly and deliberately vex hungry customers to ensure- or force - maximum sales. Rather than make a scene or get her in trouble, we were obliged to accommodate Management's determination to hound us. After the meal we were directed to rate the server online (never mind how unfair that will be). There we are having to do management bookkeeping for them when we get home. The service is indeed very good there, but an unsettling air of desperate solicitousness hovers over the place.
Do I want to be the Bad Hat because I won't rate each clerk or server online every time I shop or eat out? Or take out yet another charge account with each purchase? Whether it be Macy's, BonTon, Walmart or Applebee's, how does imperialist management make us feel about going back?
Date: Wednesday, January 27, 2010 4:00 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Gee, remember when Macy's took over Marshall Field's and they said they would continue to sponsor the 3rd of July fireworks because they were such great civic supporters?
"Nice" that Macy's continues to sponsor the mega-dollar fireworks in NYC but apparently won't in Chicago. Another example of how the switch from Marshall Field's to Macy's was more than a name change.
Please take time to comment at the following news article sites on this topic. In the case of ChicagoBusiness.com, be certain to select "Recommend" at the bottom of the posts with which you agree.
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/cgi-bin/news.pl?id=36890
http://www.suntimes.com/news/metro/2014794,daley-cancels-july-fireworks-taste-012710.article or letters@suntimes.com and feedback@suntimes.com
http://www.chicagobreakingnews.com/2010/01/chicago-cancels-july-3-fireworks-show.html
http://www.chicagobreakingnews.com/2010/01/chicago-cancels-july-3-fireworks-show.html#comments or CTC-TRIBLETTER@tribune.com
http://cbs2chicago.com/local/taste.major.announcement.2.1452544.html
http://www.nbcchicago.com/around-town/events/july-3-fireworks-82812467.html
Date: Wednesday, January 27, 2010 2:32 pm CT
Posted by: Richard in Houston
I just enjoyed viewing Darrid's site for Fields (I like to take a look every so often to refresh my memory on the style and class that were Fields). It just makes me sick that Macy's took such a gem away from Chicago and the world. I was watching North By Northwest a while back and Fields is mentioned in that classic by Cary Grant. Bring back Marshall Fields!
Date: Wednesday, January 27, 2010 3:25 am CT
Posted by: Charles H
I'm not sure that we have to go so radical, that the Macy's brand has to leave Chicago. After all, Marshall Field's has been owned by Dayton Hudson for many years before Macy's took it over.
However, MacyC-s must realize that the STATE STREET LOCATION, is not only a Chicago Landmark, but also houses long time traditions and traditional brands and service, for which patrons visit not only the state street location, but other locations as well.
I believe, if Macy's would make the effort of bringing the TRADITIONAL and seasonal Marshall Field's brands back, alongside of Macy's, and would rename the state street location with all its traditions to Marshall Field's at Macy's, they would win back the fields supporters. Even leaving the other locations Macy's, I believe with this effort, the supporters would feel they got back their brands and traditions, as well as would feel victorious, and Macy's could keep its name and brands in place.
Date: Tuesday, January 26, 2010 9:48 am CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels
Well hello everyone. I'm back - from vacation in the Cayman Islands. Jimmy Gimbels is very tan. Jealous? Good. Anyway, in Georgetown, Grand Cayman is an upscale jewlery/watch store with this sign in the window:
"SERVICE SO GOOD YOU WILL THINK YOU ARE AT MARSHALL FIELD'S"
Isn't that a hoot?
When a sales associate saw the Field's Fan button on my backback, I was treated like the second coming of Christ. The manager was all excited to hear the latest about Marshall Fields. She had visited Chicago several years ago. I had to give her the sad news. "Macy's? Who cares about Macy's" That sign brings more people into my shop. I will keep the sign up. Everyone knows Marshall Fields."
And yes, I did give the store manager my Field's button.
Marshall Field's equals good will, service, and quality around the world. Macy's? Not so much.
I will have to say that the wacky folks on the Macy's maintenance staff have been quite busy with duct tape lately. On the floor, holding handles on doors, keeping fixtures together!
Date: Monday, January 25, 2010 6:55 pm CT
Posted by: 1 of many Field's Fans in Canada
Macy's clearly is no Marshall Field's.
http://www.yelp.com/biz/marshall-fields-chicago-3
Date: Sunday, January 24, 2010 2:02 pm CT
Posted by: gle
"Crain's Chicago Business" reports another Nordstrom Rack to open in Chicago. Is it possible there is still a market for upscale stores, not to mention a return of Marshall Field's?
"Nordstrom Rack plans for Mag Mile announced" January 22, 2010 by Monee Fields-White
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/cgi-bin/news.pl?id=36832
Date: Sunday, January 24, 2010 2:02 pm CT
Posted by: Tom
Mr. John Melaniphy III, retail consultant, correctly predicted in 2005 the negative outcome of Mr. Lundgren's fatal mistake to change absorb Marshall Field's into the Macy's model.
http://www.allbusiness.com/operations/facilities-commercial-real-estate/4414651-1.html
Please take note of links to other interesting articles following the subject piece.
Date: Saturday, January 23, 2010 2:02 pm CT
Posted by: Mr & Mrs H. of New York
We have deliberately stayed away from Chicago because Marshall Field's formerly was our destination for two days of shopping and dining. Our friends have told us about the downgrading of the once wonderful and inviting Marshall Field's of Chicago, and also about your website.
It's worse when we see a photo of the store.
http://www.visitmacyschicago.com/visitors/index.cfm
The once magnificient store with its green awnings was a sight to see inside and out! It looks just like a funeral home now, with the BLACK awnings signifying deep mourning. So gloomy. How fitting that the pedestrians are all wearing black colors. How absolutely depressing, and oh-so sad!
We happened to click on the SIGNATURE EVENTS link and all Macy's has on it are: Fashion Week in September, the Holiday Event in the Walnut Room and the Spring flower show. Talk about a permanent static website link that does not need updating to stay current! (Another way to save money?)
When it was Field's, even under the several owners, there were weekly special events, shows, demonstrations, seasonal extravaganzas, and high fashion designer appearances and trunk shows. These events were all included on the fields.com website, as well as newspaper ads.
None of the Marshall Field's traditions have been upheld as they truly were in every way! Doesn't management care?? What a disgrace. No pride at all.
Date: Friday, January 22, 2010 3:33 pm CT
Posted by: drew
Is this latest merchandising strategy any surprise:
Since most Red Star stores ALREADY resemble outlets in terms of amenities, merchandise quality and customer service, this move is a natural for the Lundgrinch. Any bets the Red Star will soon announce their latest innovation, macy$dollar to better compete with Dollar General and Family Dollar? The stores could be chock full of faux designer "exclusives" like Charter Club toilet tissue, Alfani dog food, Martha's Home (distinguished from their "premium" Martha Stewart lines), Tasso Elbo pasta and Tommy Hilfiger storage bins. Lundgrinch could even resurrect the 1930s slogan: macy$dollar--it's smart to be thrifty!
Date: Friday, January 22, 2010 2:02 pm CT
Posted by: Matt
Most men would rather do anything than accompany their wives to a department store while the wives took their time trying on one piece of apparel after another. I'm sorry, but men just get bored, that's our nature!
Marshall Field's was different. Field's was a true department store. We could go to the wine shop and learn about various wines. We could go to the finest men's store and get absorbed in lots of quality clothing and accessories. We could go to the snack bar and be assured of being able to watch a game in a clean environment with clean food. We could feel macho and still be in a department store! We men could feel comfortable, relaxed and entertained, and when we rejoined our wives, we went home as a happy couple!!
Do you want to know of a specific example of what made Field's a truly EXCITING department store??
Back in 2003, Field's tried the innovative idea of appealing to the urban (and suburban) customer by introducing an Italian Motor Bike shop. What a place for men to gravitate! Always something new. Field's was truly an adventure for all!
I researched and found this article about the motor bikes being offered at Field's back in 2003.
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/cgi-bin/news.pl?id=10470&seenIt=1
Here is a key set of paragraphs from the article:
Introducing an uncommon shop like Aprilia helps FieldC-s accomplish its goal of offering merchandise no other department store has, said Dan Skoda, a retail consultant and former president of Field's.
C,Department stores have been criticized over the last couple of decades because every one carries the same thing,C. said Mr. Skoda, who is now president of D&R Consulting LLC in Chicago.
Though selling scooters in a department store is an untested idea, the setup will likely benefit both Field's and Aprilia, he added. FieldC-s gains increased foot traffic and the scooter company gets valuable exposure to potential customers.
Yes, friends, Field's was different and had different things for different people. Everyone LOVED Marshall Field's, especially men who would otherwise be impatient, bored husbands!
P.S. I still LOVE my Aprilia. It's a dark green one! (Oh, did I mention that I still love Field's?)
Date: Friday, January 22, 2010 2:00 pm CT
Posted by: Richard in Houston
I truly admire Chicagoans for their pursuit in the return of Marshall Fields. If only the citizens of the other cities nationwide were as passionate.
I found two links to Foley's photo archives that were donated to the University of Texas by Messy's. For those who may be interested:
http://www.cah.utexas.edu/db/dmr/dmr_results.php?box=3E344-Restricted&folder=1
http://www.cah.utexas.edu/db/dmr/dmr_results.php?box=3E343-Restricted&folder=1
Even Marshall Field's website was unique among any in the retail industry. I am confident there is some investor group out there that will eventually restore Fields in its class and quality.
Date: Friday, January 22, 2010 11:24 am CT
Posted by: Imogene B.
Some more of the "magic" of macy's...in driving customers AND employees away!
http://www.city-data.com/forum/work-employment/369072-truth-macys-outstanding-company.html
Marshall Field's was classy in every way. As a long time customer of Marshall Field's right up to Sept, 2006, I NEVER overheard a sales badger a customer into opening a Field's charge account. Field's associates treated each customer with respect and they never intruded so as to make a customer feel uncomfortable into asking why she or he does not have a charge account with the store.
It's obvious why Macy's stores generally give poor service. They judge an employee's performance and potential on the number of Macy's credit cards they force customers to open---NOT in how they greet customers, their pleasantness, their listening ability, answering questions fully, being professional,and concluding the sale in a positive way. There is the Macy way, and then there is the proper way.
Date: Friday, January 22, 2010 8:36 am CT
Posted by: J. Goldblatt
The philanthropy and influence of the Marshall Field family is notably widespread in Chicago, and throughout the United States.
On the Sarah Lawrence College campus near Yonkers, New York you can find the school of music housed in the Marshall Field Building.
http://www.slc.edu/about/campus/Marshall_Field_Music_Building.php
Perhaps other Field's Fans in New York or anywhere may be able to tell more about the connection of the Field family to Sarah Lawrence College in suburban New York City. By "googling" I have been able to find that the building is referred often by students and alumni as "Marshall Field House". I have also found references of Sarah Lawrence College to Mr. Marshall Field III, who lived Sept 28, 1893 to Nov 8, 1956. It's easy to assume that the Georgian Mansion belonged to the Field Family and was given to the college, however I do not know for certain.
http://www.slc.edu/about/campus/Marshall_Field_Music_Building.php
I do want to present this information as a matter of interest to demonstrate that the Field Family was and is civic-minded and their connections in assorted fields of endeavor is immense. The decision by Mr. Lundgren to kill Marshall Field's as we knew it, and regional department stores across the nation, was not well thought-out at all. He apparently did not research and know how deeply held Marshall Field's department store and the family is revered, respected, known, adamantly loved. He must surely be regretting his poor decision to de-localize and macy-ify the U.S. as time goes on. It has to be affecting Macy's financial picture negatively! People do have power as demonstrated recently in key elections and they can make a change. You Field's Fans can and hopefully will have the same effect! Best wishes. You are not alone...by far!
Date: Thursday, January 21, 2010 4:46 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
In response to the two Chicago Tribune articles that "gle" cites right below, Macy's needs to take more radical action to localize its stores if it is going to raise its stock price and profits.
In attempting to "localize," Macy's, the ubiquitous department store chain, should follow Starbucks lead in breaking out of "cookie-cutter" store mode. Today's New York Times (1/21/2009) has a story of how Starbucks is also localizing its stores with great success resulting in improved profits and stock prices. Part of the way Starbucks is doing this is by customizing their stores to the point that the shops don't even bear the Starbucks name. In one Seattle location, they are operating as "15th Avenue Coffee and Tea."
In light of this success, it makes perfect sense that Macy's should improve its profits and stock price by localizing their store at 111 N State Street as Marshall Field's in merchandise, experience, service, and, of course, name.
The NY Times article can be viewed at
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/01/21/business/21sbux.html?emThere is not a place to comment on this piece.
A study last spring showed that three years later, 78% of Chicago shoppers (MOE= 4.23%, CI=95%) prefer Marshall Field's to Macy's and would shop former Chicago-area Field's locations more if they were localized back to Marshall Field's. Details are at http://www.FieldsFansChicago.org/index.html#survey
As it is, Macy's disuse of the Marshall Field's brand and flagship is an terrible waste of shareholder value worth hundreds of millions of dollars.
Date: Thursday, January 21, 2010 2:37 pm CT
Posted by: gle
Here is some more Messy's media from the "Tribune"
"Macy's Inc. increasingly thinking local"
Company is more efficient and has reduced debt, but the debt is still larger than some of its competitors" January 21, 2010 by Andrew Leckey
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/yourmoney/sc-ym-0124-leckey-20100120,0,7751575.story
and,
"Macy's plans first Bloomingdale's outlet stores, aiming at savvy-style shoppers on a budget" January 21, 2010 by Mae Anderson, AP Retail Writer
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/sns-ap-us-macys-outlets,0,6806848.story
This is the Bloomingdale's announcement from Messy's official website www.macysinc.com
"Macy's Inc. to Open Bloomingdale's Outlet Stores"
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1377544&highlight=
and, the Bloomingdale's announcement from the "Sun-Times"
"Macy's to open first Bloomingdale's outlets" January 21, 2010 by Associated Press
http://www.suntimes.com/business/2003964,macys-bloomingdale-outlet-store-012110.article
Date: Thursday, January 21, 2010 12:56 pm CT
Posted by: J.C. Pirie
How ironic it is that exactly 100 years after the death of Mr. Marshall Field himself (1906), Terry Lundgren, Macy's CEO/Pres/Chairman would be planning the death of Marshall Field's department stores in merchandise quality, service quality and name (2006).
Here is the official announcement and story of the death of Mr. Marshall Field in the New York Times of January 15, 1906:
http://query.nytimes.com/gst/abstract.html?res=9C0DE0D91F3DE633A25756C1A9679C946797D6CF
On the one hand, I am glad that Mr. Field did not live to see this insulting tragedy. On the other hand, I cannot help but wonder if Mr. Field, in spirit, is planning the eventual orchestration of the fabulous return of Marshall Field & Company!
Then consider the New York Times story of January 17, 2007, almost 101 years to the day of the Times piece on the passing of Marshall Field: "Loss of a Beloved Department Store Breeds a New Kind of Superfan."
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/01/17/us/17chicago.html?_r=1&scp=1&sq=marshall+field&st=nyt
(Perhaps the obvious coincidence of dates, 1906 and 2006, as well as 2007, is a positive sign for us. We can only hope.)
We---that means EACH of us, no matter where we live---must continue our efforts actively and spread the word!
Keep the MF spirit alive!!
Date: Thursday, January 21, 2010 9:05 am CT
Posted by: Madison Envy
If I lived in the Madison, Wisconsin area, I know whom I would choose as a family doctor!
http://www.deancare.com/dhs/provider/doc_info.asp?id=120
Dr. Marshall Fields received his BS from the University of Chicago in '67, his MD from the University of Wisconsin in 1972.
Since the Marshall Field's department store in Madison's Hilldale Shopping Center has been turned into another Macy's, I would think Dr. Fields misses Marshall Field's too for more than one reason! (I hope Macy's corporate attorneys don't force Dr. Fields to change his name, for infringement of the MF trademark name they now own.)
Just another example of keeping our beloved and missed MARSHALL FIELD name paramount in people's minds!
Date: Wednesday, January 20, 2010 3:15 pm CT
Posted by: TomZ
I see that TARGET is negotiating to take up space in the Carson's building, would it not be great to have macy's compete with a spotless TARGET? I recently tried to purchase a gift of a silver tray in Daytona Beach, Florida at macy's (ex Burdines) the sales person said that they did not carry the trays meybe try DILLARDS. They also did nto carry such trays, went to macys on-line lookup - try the Orlando Stores. Even the largest mall did not carry the tray, finally had to order on-line- it was shipped from CALIFORNIA OF ALL PLACES. It's no wonder that their on line sales are up, it is the only way that you can get assistance. ..... Normally the only time that I will shop there is if the item is on final markdown.
Date: Wednesday, January 20, 2010 12:42 pm CT
Posted by: gayle
Hi all,
Last night, Channel 2 news at 10pm had a story about Kraft Foods buying Cadbury. Apparently many people, especially Brits, are extremely upset at the change in this old British chocolate company.
The commentator began his story by saying that "Chicagoans, of all people, should understand what it means to lose a beloved brand..." and with that, they cut to a shot of Field's Fans protesting outside Macy's! Folks, we have become an iconic sound bite/video clip on the subject of brand loyalty! Everyone involved with this effort should be very proud of the impact that's been made.
The good news/bad news (depending on your view) is that the clip they showed featured one of our group proudly wearing a F*** Macy's tee shirt. I doubt Channel 2 realized it...you have to either look closely or be aware that such tee shirts were around. Have to admit, it made me smile.....
gayle
Date: Tuesday, January 19, 2010 5:33 pm CT
Posted by: gle
There is speculation in several sources that Target Corp. is in lease discussions with Joseph Freed & Associates for the former Carson's building on State Street. This could have interesting implications for the future of Messy's and State Street.
from "Crain's Chicago Business,"
"Target Corp. eyes historic Carson's site on Chicago's State Street for new store" January 18, 2010 by Eddie Baeb
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/cgi-bin/mag/article.pl?articleId=32909
from the "Tribune,"
"Target in talks for Carson's on State St. site" January 18, 2010 by Wailin Wong
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-target-carsons-state-street-jan18,0,2764423.story
from the "Sun-Times,"
"Target aiming at Carson's site?" January 17, 2010 by Kara Spak and Mary Wisniewski
http://www.suntimes.com/business/1995196,CST-NWS-target17.article
All have comment blogs that require a login. Thank you for going to the trouble of getting a login and helping to bring back Marshall Field's.
Date: Tuesday, January 19, 2010 8:42 am CT
Posted by: Jon
How would you like to learn more about the Marshall Field & Company store as it was in the early 1900s, Field's Fans??
You are invited to join in this personally guided tour of the magnificient and complete Marshall Field's department store. Please read on. I know you will be fascinated...
http://www.oldandsold.com/articles16/american-travel-12.shtml
A sampling: 10,000 employees, an in-store branch of the Chicago Public Library for employees, Field's own in-store shirt factory, its own 200 member MF Choral Society, an in-store school for stockboys to learn about fractions and various subjects to better themselves, 12 baseball teams...and more! Marshall Field's was a city within itself!
Date: Tuesday, January 19, 2010 6:46 am CT
Posted by: Yet Another Field's Fan
This link leads to a Marshall Field Christmas Memory published in the Jacksonville, FloridaB newspaper in December, 2009. Marshall Field's provided lots of Christmas memories for so many...as we all soB very well recognize. http://jacksonville.com/interact/blog/keiths_komments/2009-12-06/the_marshall_fields_christmas_incident
Date: Monday, January 18, 2010 6:44 pm CT
Posted by: Lindsay N.
I have easily convinced all my "sisters" in my sorority house...and we in turn have solicited the other 14 sorority house's members on the campus of the University of Iowa (enrollment 32,000) to continue their boycott of Macy's in Chicago and everywhere. (Fact: one-third of the undergraduate student body at the U of Iowa is from a 75-mile radius of Chicago.)
In addition we are telling our families and friends to avoid the Red Star Macy's. (It's really quite easy because most people already despise and avoid Macy's for what they did to Marshall Field's, let alone because of their lack of proper style in clothes.)
We challenge the sorority houses at the other Big 10 Universities to do the same---most certainly Northwestern in Evanston, U of Illinois, U of Wisconsin, U of Minnesota, Michigan State, the U of Michigan, Indiana U, the Ohio State University, Purdue and Penn State! Get the word out that Macy's has flunked in all courses, and Marshall Field's gets Straight-A's with us!
Date: Monday, January 18, 2010 10:42 am CT
Posted by: Stephen G.
Everyone who loves Marshall Field's feels exactly the same way the people of England feeld about Cadbury; possibley more so! Take note Macy's! (In today's Tribune.)
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-mon-kraft-cadbury-jan18,0,7440331.story
Date: Sunday, January 17, 2010 8:21 pm CT
Posted by: Jon C.
[ Some levity. ]
Congratulations to Dr. Marshall Field for being selected as "Reader's Choice" Best Optometrist in the Los Angeles area for 2009!
I would l-i-k-e to think that a good part of the reason why Dr. Marshall Field has enjoyed so much success in practicing his profession in optometry in Los Angeles, is the name connection with the well-known, legendary Marshall Field's Department Store. (I'm sure Dr. Field is an outstanding optometrist in his own right though, with his being in private practice for 44 years!)
http://www.eyedoc4you.com/I encourage Southern Californians to consider being clients of Dr. Marshall Field in support of our very own Marshall Field's of Chicago!
(For Gail in San Diego: There might be a strong chance Dr. Field would proudly wear one of our pins too. Can you imagine the conversation-starter it would be for his patients?)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
P.S. While I have your attention, may I encourage Field's Fans in South Carolina to consider Dr. Marshall Fields in Columbia, SC, for your cosmetic dental appointments.
Date: Sunday, January 17, 2010 7:45 pm CT
Posted by: Jane T.
Marshall Field's will always be on people's minds.http://stanleybing.blogs.fortune.cnn.com/2007/09/27/mourning-the-death-of-marshall-fields/
Date: Sunday, January 17, 2010 7:34 pm CT
Posted by: oA Chicagoan Through-and-Through
Here is what a former neighbor of Marshall Field's has to say:http://dirtydishchicago.blogspot.com/2009/01/heartbreaker-marshall-fields-i-still.html
Date: Sunday, January 17, 2010 2:58 pm CT
Posted by: Mike A.
agree with the comments regarding Dominick's and Jewel which are perfect examples of the different approaches to entering the Chicago market.
At the time Jewel was bought by American Stores and Dominick's was bought by Safeway, they both had similar market shares in Chicago. While American Stores kept the stores basically the same as when locally owned, Safeway forced it's west coast mentality on the Dominick's stores; replacing local favorites with their house brand labels, and not taking the time to figure out what matters to mid-westerners. Sound familiar, Terry Lungren?
In the years since the takeover, Jewel has kept their marketshare and I think recently has had a 3 to 1 advantage over Dominicks. People avoided Dominicks in droves and made them so bad, Safeway couldn't even sell the chain.
Unfortunately Safeway still owns Dominick's and this local strong chain has been reduced to an afterthought.
Date: Sunday, January 17, 2010 10:00 am CT
Posted by: J.I.C.
Today's Sunday Chicago Tribune has a new column by Phil Rosenthal on the Tonight Show controversey, comparing viewer loyalty to that of Marshall Field's fans:http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/ct-biz-0117-phil-20100115,0,4312459.story
"...'The Tonight Show,' a late-night TV institution of more than 55 years, stands much like the old Marshall Field's flagship store on State Street. Even if you never were near it or its sister stores, it's a historic landmark. You might feel you have a stake in what it's called and you might feel compelled to protest if it were to be overhauled, razed or otherwise threatened."
Date: Saturday, January 16, 2010 11:01 pm CT
Posted by: JC
Please take a few minutes to fully realize and comprehend what department store shopping in the United States has become---a barren macy landscape. (How sad and disheartening, to put it mildly.)http://www.labelscar.com/retail-news/hello-macysBe sure to read the comments posted, including those of our very own Pat C.
Date: Saturday, January 16, 2010 12:46 am ET
Posted by: A Earl
I went downtown to meet a friend for lunch at the store formerly known as Marshall Field's. I entered the wabash and randolph corner of the building and noticed that one set of doors was chained shut with no out of order sign. As soon as I entered the men's underwear department, I noticed that the up escalator was out of order. The white duct tape covering broken tiles is still untouched from several months ago. As I made my way downstairs, I was shocked on the escalator as I stepped off of it. I then noticed another spot of black duct tape covering some more broken tiles. My friend and I ate in the Lower Level food court. I felt like I was eating in a run down bus station. As we were leaving the area, I smelled the stench of urine. It was just horrible.
Later on, I spoke to a sales associate who told me the state street store had a phenomenal Christmas season. Apparently, state street is number 3 of all macy's stores. Herald Square is number one, and then San Francisco number two. I really don't know if I believe this.
The store was not busy for a Friday afternoon. If they don't keep up with the maintenance and housekeeping, the store will be number 800 something in the macy's lineup. It's so sad seeing such a beautiful building not being maintained like it was when it was Marshall Field's.
Date: Friday, January 15, 2010 8:17 am CT
Posted by: J.C.
Jim McKay had posted that those who receive Macy gift cards should be sure to use them, and not let Macy's keep that revenue if unused.
A while back, someone mentioned that the information desk at State Street still sold t-shirts with the Marshall Field's logo. If that is still the case, why not use your undesirable Macy's gift card on those? Buying one or two of those shirts, will allow you to use up your card money...PLUS help out our cause by allowing you to wear those shirts all over creation to keep Field's in people's minds. They could also be worn at our protest rallies!
Again, only if you are stuck with a Macy's gift card.
Date: Friday, January 15, 2010 6:24 am CT
Posted by: Susan NY
Yes, the world is full of miseries and more pressing concerns than a good shopping day. That's why Field's downtown stood out.
It did not offer just a good shopping day. It represented the best in peaceful human productions, hovering a little above the angst of life. Whether it was pens or shoes or plates or buttons or books- from candy bars to silver tea services, there was good/better/best all around you, lots of it. The best materials, the best design, the best efforts. Not make-do and cut-corner, for a change. No, I could not afford whatever I fancied but I could pull lots in by osmosis. No, the whole store was not perfect, but enough was. Even on the largely neglected, remote ninth floor (in my day, the 60s) where I worked in the phonograph record section, there was nevertheless that saturation of Field's largess and providence. You could find radio batteries and guitar picks there, or exotic carpets and fine pianos, and someone to help you. It could be gift wrapped, too. Right there. Free. And a spotless restroom with traces of belle epoque richness, a little spinoff of the third floor grand restroom. Was I well paid? No- not in money, anyway. Was I happy there? - you bet. I made lifelong friends there. I have 2 degrees but I consider Field's my alma mater! Could that experience have been obtained in Carson's, Wieboldt's or Walmart--or even a suburban Field's? Nope.
I realize most Field's State Street devotees probably remember only as far back as the 80s or 90s... I saw Field's then, too when I returned to visit family. Still the same deal despite major changes. The best, in the best box. Every symbol of Field's projects a strong message to this day. Yeah, we are still remembering and daring to hope. (I suspect "we" means people who care about that which is done well, even superbly, as opposed to those who are indifferent--hence the snarking from across the divide. Thus the world turns!)
Date: Thursday, January 14, 2010 4:45 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
The "Letters To The Editor" page of "The Chicago Reader" has a response to Cecil Adams' "Straight Dope" column about Macy's and Field's in last week's paper and at http://chicago.straightdope.com
Please do view the letter and write your own follow-up and commentary at http://www.chicagoreader.com/chicago/letters-and-comments-january-14-2009/Content?oid=1317944 or email letters@chicagoreader.com
Many thanks and much admiration for all that you do to help bring back Marshall Field's.
Date: Thursday, January 14, 2010 11:07 pm CT
Posted by: Phillip C.
Many of you already know that Marshall Field's Men's Store was housed for many years in the separate 20-story building at the Swouthwest corner of Wabash and Washington Streets, across from the main store. The Men's store had its own ornate Men's Grill restaurant.
http://www.chicagomag.com/Chicago-Magazine/September-2006/The-Annotated-Marshall-Fields/
It's my understanding that the building across the street also once contained offices of the corporate holding company, Marshall Field & Company, which owned not only the Marshall Field stores, but also Halle's Department Stores of Cleveland, the Frederick & Nelson department stores of Seattle, and the Crescent department stores of Spokane, Washington.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frederick_&_Nelson
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Crescent_(department_store)
Date: Thursday, January 14, 2010 12:40 am CT
Posted by: Gail
I wore my Marshall Field's t-shirt while working in my front yard for about an hour over the weekend. I don't get many pedestrians on my street here in San Diego--maybe 10 or so during the hour. But two separate passers-by gave me a thumbs up for Field's. One stopped to share stories with me about how "ghastly" Macy's is these days. The other jogged by and shouted "Yes, bring back Field's!" as he went by.
Date: Wednesday, January 13, 2010 10:13 pm CT
Posted by: Douglas S., New York
Everything you always wanted to know about the historic Marshall Field & Company BUILDING:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marshall_Field_and_Company_Building
Note: Here is a direct quote:
"However, with the conversion to Macy's the emphasis of the store changed and store branded lines replaced many designer labels, such as Dolce & Gabbana, Prada, Miu Miu and Jimmy Choo, which led to the disassembly of several designer departments."
(Just another of the many "exciting" changes resulting after all the promises of Macy's CEO/President/Chairman that we would not notice any changes whatsoever in the transition from Field's to Macy's and that all of the Field's traditions would be honored and kept.)
***
Historic information about the Marshall Field's STORE:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marshall_Field'sRemember the boycott! Please do not shop at Macy's or Bloomingdale's. Tell everyone you know. The boycott is having a tremendous effect. Keep it going strong!
Date: Wednesday, January 13, 2010 9:31 pm CT
Posted by: Findley Johnson; also Jon
It seems Mr. Lundgren is the new chair of the National Retail Federation:
http://cincinnati.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/stories/2010/01/11/daily32.htmlThe previous chair was the head of JCPenney.
Date: Wednesday, January 13, 2010 7:10 pm CT
Posted by: John D.
Pete is absolutely correct. Just keeping the names of retailers is not the same as retaining the original enterprise---the local culture, unique products, cusomized ads, the quality of service and carrying the name throughout in distinctive sacks and products etc.
Pete brings up the very point clearly that I intended to use in summary after the examples of Super Valu, Safeway, Kroger and Bon Ton, but neglected to do so.
In the case of Marshall Field's, we do not want JUST only the name of MARSHALL FIELD'S returned...We want every aspect about Marshall Field's returned. Marshall Field's was a comprehensive and inclusive retailing, social and historical culture. It was a world-class icon right here in Chicago, a TRUE department store plus so much more! ---the disinctive merchandising; the eye-catching localize print and television advertising, the high quality Field's Gear housebrands; the clean, inviting sophisticated atmosphere, the full-scale gourmet and wine shops; the sit-down restaurants serving the famous food items from quality ingredients from the original recipes; fresh FRANGO mints with expiration dates of freshness clearly affixed; the unique marketing fashion events; the full-scale stationery and pen shops, the "28 Shop" of designer fashions, the many famous quality apparel names for mens and womens styles; truly professional, inviting display windows; large, distinctive holiday shops, the Marshall Field mini-museum of Field's history on the 7th floor; the bakeries; knowledgable, personable and professional sales associates, properly maintained stores from ceiling to floor, from the inside out to properly cleaning and polishing the MF&Co historic name plates, Forest Green MF trademark color back in all applications---strong, distinctive, famous MF shopping bags, the dark green MF credit cards, the name tags, the awnings, the MF trucks, the sturdy green gift boxes, and most certainly the dark green color throughout the MF stores themselves...and getting rid of the blazing red!
In other words, we want everything back about MARSHALL FIELD'S that we came to love and admire about Marshall Field's! We will settle for nothing less...most certainly not just the Marshall Field's NAME in a macy's environment!
Marshall Field's was far, far more than just a retailing name. Marshall Field's was a social culture, an world-class adventure, a true destination in itself, a place to feel comfortable and a place to go...for the sheer fun of real shopping!
Date: Wednesday, January 13, 2010 5:05 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Just reminder that if, despite your wishes, you did receive a Macy's or Bloomingdale's gift card this past holiday season, remember to see that it is spent. Otherwise, Macy's gets to keep the money. Spend it on clearance merch or spend it on something Marshall Field's-related. Buy some clothing with the card and give it to charity. Just spend it--otherwise it means more profits for Macy's.
Date: Wednesday, January 13, 2010 4:57 pm CT
Posted by: J.
When I attended the rally in 2007, I refrained from even stepping into the MF&Co. Building because it was so unnatural not to step into it, being that close. I stayed outside. I met another Field's and we had coffee and a sandwich. Just was not the same as dining in MF&Co. though.
I do remember how empty the store was of customers. I remember seeing the security guards and the cosmetic associates looking out, as well as the lady employee who gave us the "thumbs up" inside the store through the window.
I stick to the tenants of the boycott and don't even venture inside. I don't want to feel any more "down" than I already feeling about this.
Date: Wednesday, January 13, 2010 1:36 pm CT
Posted by: M.H.
I AM DEFINITELY A "FIELDS" FAN! THE EAST COAST CAN KEEP MACYS. I WOULD LIKE TO HAVE MARSHAL FIELDS BACK, PLEASE!!!!!!
Date: Tuesday, January 12, 2010 5:57 pm CT
Posted by: A button distributor
For the record since Field's fans are sometimes labeled as "a group of protestors," many recent comments I hear about Messy's are coming from younger women shoppers who are not in any protest group. They notice my "I want my Marshall Field's" button and agree. They tell me things like Macy's--yuck, they haven't got anything, it's not special, it's not the same. Some tell me they didn't even know there was a protest group and are happy to be referred to this website. They are turned off by Macy's even without a protest group to influence them. Chicago still wants its Marshall Field's.
Date: Tuesday, January 12, 2010 8:09 pm CT
Posted by: Pete
I want my Marshall Field's and I want it back by next Christmas! The Marshall Field's stores would be absolutely packed with customers then and in all the weeks following!
Date: Tuesday, January 12, 2010 5:33 am CT
Posted by: Susan NY
OK--I meant to check first-- it's the Lighthouse, not the Library at Alexandria. The Library idea impresses me more...
Bon Ton makes you stand on one foot and the other to buy shoes (if you can find them), wedged between shelving units allowing one body through at a time. Not inspired merchandising even if they figure that is an approach "customized" for this area. At least out here, it makes Macy's look civilized. (blush) Whatever Bon Ton is doing right, it does not approach what Field's did right, by a long shot.
Moan--it is hard to believe that this wealthy nation can't produce someone to get Field's back on its feet again. Surely one Grand Dame Field's on this planet is not too much to ask. With the national shopping landscape laid waste by Macy's, think of the tourist magnet it would be NOW!!
Date: Monday, January 11, 2010 10:34 pm CT
Posted by: Pete
Regarding Lee's post, keep in mind that the classic Hudson's was like Field's in that it did a lot for its community. However, even though the Hudson's flagship was the largest department store in the world, it was also a white elephant that never came close to matching Marshall Field's on State Street as an architectural masterpiece. Architect Paulo Mendes da Rocha, winner of the 2006 Pritzker Prize in architecture, named it one of the three greatest masterpieces of current architecture. Frank Lloyd Wright said the store and the way that it was operated was epitome of civilization. The store is an international masterpiece that is protected by law.
Regarding John's writing about store brands, Safeway may have kept the Dominick's brand but other than some signs and the shopping bags, the stores feel and look like Safeway stores. They are quite different from the Dominick's of 12 years ago. Carson's, Bon Ton, Bergner's and the rest may have kept their nbames, but in pretty much every other way, they are identical stores, even down to the red Suisse logo inherited through P.A. Bergner & Co. Carson's has been a Bergner's with a Carson's name on the sign since 1990.
That's one blessing about Macy's not using the Marshall Field's name on the stores. At least people know that what they are experiencing is Macy's and it's not Marshall Field's. Unlike the Straigh Dope writer, the insides of the stores are different in so many ways. It's not just a name change.
Date: Monday, January 11, 2010 9:47 pm CT
Posted by: Sean C.
Regarding The Straight Dope -- yeah, it is odd...I've been reading The Straight Dope since 1990, when I was in high school and had my first job as a library page...I saw one of the books when I was shelving and checked it out for myself and I've been addicted ever since...but I must say lately Cecil seems to have been dropping the ball on a lot of columns recently. (I've heard off the record that the Reader isn't doing so well; maybe it has to do with a lack of resources/money, I dunno.)
It's weird that Cecil and one of the readers both agree that it seems that nothing has actually changed other than the name....WOW.
I might have posted here before about how my mother told me that she doesn't understand why I make a big deal about this, it's another store, why bother protesting when the best protest is simply not to shop there, etc. My mother, who's been stubborn and unconvinceable her whole life, told me some months ago that she went into Macy's for the first time -- the one on State Street -- and her attitude was, "Okay, I get it now. It really is a lousy store. The selection is bad, and the prices are awful."
I know we're all telling each other to not shop at Federated stores, tell people not to get us presents from Macy's, etc. Unfortunately, one of my wife's relatives from Massachusetts gave her a Macy's gift card for Christmas. Problem is, this woman isn't a person you can tell "don't get me anything from 'Store X'" -- she has a very stubborn New England attitude (I don't mean that in a bad way, really), who doesn't get it; "It's just a store; what's the big deal?" (It sounds surprisingly convincing with a Massachusetts accent.) Plus, where she lives, it's really the only store, besides a grocery store. (And she doesn't shop online.) My wife wanted to use the gift card while we were in New Jersey show it wouldn't show up as a purchase from a Macy's in the Midwest, but unfortunately she couldn't find anything she wanted.
Similar thing happened last year -- but my wife ended up using it on a book in the basement at the State Street store. The book was a book about Marshall Fields. She was mad that we both forgot to wear our pro-Field's, anti-Macy's buttons. :(
This year, though, my mother got us for Christmas a mini replica of the MF clock that has a candle in it...and my mother-in-law found (in Jersey of all places!) a collectible plate made specifically for Field's in 2006, with Marina City etched on it (with the old WLS broadcast antenna) -- REALLY cool. (Especially since I love the architecture of Marina City -- I always say half-jokingly that I'm going to have an office in there. :) )
Date: Monday, January 11, 2010 9:11 pm CT
Posted by: JWC
Here is a segment from the CBS Morning Show of November 15, 2005 when Harry Smith came to Chicago to visit Marshall Field's for the last time to obtain opinions.
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2005/11/15/earlyshow/living/money/main1045814.shtml
Date: Monday, January 11, 2010 7:00 pm CT
Posted by: John D.
By not retaining the legendary, recognizable regional department store names, such as Marshall Field's, Foley's, Jordan Marsh and so many others, and not maintaining the local quality merchandising and service that customers were accustomed to, Macy's made the worst possible mistake in marketing.
In the grocery business, grocery holding companies value and retain the local names, local products and localized services when they purchase regional stores. Just take a look at all the names of grocery stores listed in the following links for the nation's largest grocery conglomerates: Kroger, Super Valu (Jewel in Chicago) and Safeway (Dominicks).
http://www.supervalu-storebrands.com/default.asp
http://www.safeway.com/IFL/Grocery/Investors#iframetop
These grocery retailing companies realize the fundamental importance and value of customer loyalty and store name recognition that each of the regional stores offer to the bottom line. The various store trade names also get visitors and tourists inside each of thse stores for the sheer fact of curiousity of a different store!
Take a look at: Bon Ton Stores, Inc as an example of a department store company which has retained the legendary regional department store names it owns and has regional management trams in the various locales for buying, special event and management operations: Bon Ton (Pennsylvania and Mid-Atlantic states), Elder-Beerman (Ohio), Bergner's (Downstate Illinois), Boston Store (Wisconsin), Carson Pirie Scott (Chicago), Herberger's (Minnesota), Younkers (Iowa-Nebraska), and The Parisian in Detroit.
Once again, why would a department store company, such as Macy's Inc. totally throw out and disregard the highly valued regional department store names and their traditions or what made them famous? The names in themselves are priceless. Why would Macy's have 800+ stores of the same name which immediately causes people to pass the stores by when visiting other cities? The vast lost market share should be a deep concern among shareholders and the board of directors. Macy's, Macy's, Macy's...and more Macy's in almost every state---It just does not make sense!!
Date: Monday, January 11, 2010 12:07 pm CT
Posted by: Nina Gaspich
Hey, if NBC can admit that they made a mistake with the Jay Leno affair, why can't Macy's admit they made a mistake with Field's?
Sometimes humility is the better part of valor.
Date: Monday, January 11, 2010 10:35 pm CT
Posted by: Lee
A long time fan of the old "grand dame" department stores. I am saddened to hear of Macy's refusal to change the name of the store back to Marshall Fields. But surely it would need more than just a name change. You would have to have a different set of buyers ensuring that the stock and displays were up to scratch and superior to those at Macy's. I never got to see Marshall Fields before the take-over but presume it was something like New York's Bloomingdales in terms of upscale merchandise mixed with more everyday items but in a much grander setting.
All I can say is maybe be thankful that Fields didn't suffer the same fate as the amazing Hudson's Store in Detroit which was reduced to rubble in the late 1990s. Other stores ended up being converted to malls or offices or even public libraries (B Altman New York) but at least the buildings stood as a reminded of the glory days of the department store. Hudson's wasn't so lucky and is now a very large path of wasteland. Go and look at the Tiffany ceiling in Marshall Feilds building and be thankful you still have the building.
if the economic situation wasn't so bad maybe Macys coulld have sold it to an entrepreneur like the ones who bought Harrods and Harvey Nichols in London.
Date: Sunday, January 10, 2010 9:49 pm CT
Posted by: David D.
Hartford (CT) Business Journal's take on the state of Macy's:
http://www.hartfordbusiness.com/news11527.html
Date: Sunday, January 10, 2010 8:19 pm CT
Posted by: John D.
My sister-in-law recently traveled from Omaha, Nebraska for a three-day convention to downtown Chicago. Before she left, I asked her to conduct a study. The subject was: "Marshall Field's". She agreed to do what I asked her.
Every now and then, she would ask someone whom she encountered if the name "Marshall Field's" meant anything to them and why. She came back amazed at how people of so many possible job positions and income levels could have had such affection for a store.
She told of a housekeeping maid whose first words back were: "Ohhhh---Ohhhh, Marshall Field's. Oh, how I miss that store. Marshall Field's was special, and everyone there treated me like I was special too!"
She told of a policeman she encountered, who replied: "Marshall Field's? Who hasn't heard of Marshall Field's?! Downtown Chicago is not the same without Marshall Field's. It's where my family went for special shopping for special people. I'll tell you, something else---we don't have the traffic jams with cabbies around Macy's. We sure did with Field's."
She related that her hotel concierge was quick to say that she formerly got all kinds of questions about Marshall Field's from visitors. She added that Macy's is not a point of interest at all.
When she asked some of her fellow attendees, the frequent response was something like: If it were still Marshall Field's, you better know I would be taking time out for shopping there---real shopping! I've got Macy's back home, and I don't shop there.
This informal sampling certainly adds further credence to the way Marshall Field's has been so famously known by reputation and personal experience.
Date: Sunday, January 10, 2010 6:20 pm CT
Posted by: John
Photo of this year's Walnut Room tree.
Date: Sunday, January 10, 2010 5:25 pm CT
Posted by: A State Street spectator
I don't think the writer of "Straight Dope" takes everything as seriously as we do. However, some reading the column might not realize that. From the comments about State Street, I wonder how many times that person actually goes into the store. I work in the Loop, and the change at Messy's has been VERY clear to me as a downgrade. It is also VERY clear to an increasing number of younger female shoppers I talk to who like my "I want my Marshall Field's" button--the shoppers Messy's originally aimed for. These persons aren't even protestors. They just plain say they wish Marshall Field's was still there instead of Messy's.
Date: Sunday, January 10, 2010 10:29 am CT
Posted by: Don D.
For those of you who did not read the "Topix" item some time back on Macy's taking over and changing the names, culture and service at many of the nation's regional department stores, here it is:http://www.topix.com/forum/business/T2QBFIDE7F82051RRMany people from a variety of states were incensed enough to write.People want their own regional department stores, not 850 generic Macy's stores all over.
Date: Sunday, January 10, 2010 7:01 am CT
Posted by: Susan in NY
One might ask of the 'snarky' types why they must snark. If you are a snark, you are probably make a lot of money doing it, or at least get some kind of high from it. It is verbal bullying. From high snarkdom, all who are not equally snarky are beneath and contemptible. They are suitable targets.
The Field's issue is perfect for the snark bullet because he/she can attack reasonably amiable folks who are upset about something good that has been messed up, for being reasonable and amiable and upset about bad happening to good. Rising to the bait normally is a waste of effort because there is no point of view but the snark's. Yes, in the just-described case, I realize the value of thoughtful commenting, lest later readers think that the snark has offered THE definitive opinion.
I was glad to read J.C.'s observation about how important the PLACE was to him or her. It was not Field's Oakbrook or what-have-you; it is the downtown store that made all the satellites relevant, it was 111 N State that transcended mere shopping space, far above any others. It was a treasure that cannot be understood from a distance, you had to go there to "get it."
I agree-- we could have absorbed the loss of any other store-- but not the Original. I don't travel much, but I took comfort in knowing it was there like Yellowstone or the Pyramids. Some exceptional phenomena really need to be allowed to exist Because. Should I put those 3 in the same category? It works for me! Would I rank it with the Library at Alexandria or the Hanging Gardens of Babylon? I believe so.
Date: Saturday, January 9, 2010 8:21 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Regarding Nina's post from yesterday, the Straight Dope Chicago column that is currently running as part of the week's Chicago Reader can be viewed at:http://chicago.straightdope.com/sdc20100107.phpIMHO, Straight Dope generally has a sort of snarky attittude to it -- so be forewarned for those who are sensitive to that.
I think it's an interesting column, but it is also very flawed--not the least of which is that some of my comments to the interviewer are taken out of context or even misquoted. For starters, any regular here would know that I emphatically consider it a conversion of Marshall Field's into Macy's--not simply a name change.
I've had some difficulty accessing the posting capability to comment and offer my rebuttal to the column. In the interim, below is a response from a serious side of things, for the record:
Thanks to the mysterious Mr. Adams for the lengthy interview last week. Consistent with his reputation for exhaustive questioning, by the end of the phone call, my hand and arm were tingly with numbness from holding the receiver.
Regarding this week's Straight Dope: Chicago--"Why are people still so upset about Marshall Field's?", I believe some further clarifications are in order.
Sure, in Atlanta they are mostly over Rich's becoming Macy's; downstate and in St. Louis they are pretty much over Famous-Barr becoming Macy's and so on. But what is curious is that these same out-of-towners are also among a significant portion of those not over the loss of Marshall Field's. At least half, if not more, of our blog writings, donations of buttons and leaflets, etc. come from those outside of Chicago, many of whom have never been Chicagoans and have only visited our city. According to Marshall Field's literature from 2005, the State Street store was Chicago's "number three destination." Clearly, it is not that any more. If Macy's had purchased and converted Carson Pirie Scott instead of Field's, I suspect the reaction would have, as Adams put it, "eventually rolled over," as was the case with patrons of the likes of Rich's, Famous-Barr, etc. During our leaflet and button distributions on State Street, we regularly encounter non-Chicago natives from around the country, as well as more than a few international visitors from the likes of London, Paris, Tokyo--and even the occasional traveler from the likes of Moscow and Sao Palo--who are very disappointed to find Macy's in place of Marshall Field's. I don't think former Rich's and Famous locations experience that. Contrary to your column, this is more than the locals Chicagoans being dismayed at having their store converted to New York's brand. Said one St. Louis native to me, "Well, Famous-Barr is just Famous-Barr...but how can they get rid of Marshall Field's for crying out loud? It's why I go to Chicago!" Our survey of Chicago shoppers (not Chicagoans) on State Street and Michigan Avenue showed that 78% preferred Field's and wanted it's return, many saying they missed the merchandise and non-pushy service.
Marshall Field's was indeed both an emporium as well as a cultural institution. For example, we hear a lot of fuss about Chicago trying to build its fashion image and also its rep for fine dining. Chicago's best-known fashion and culinary brand was Marshall Field's. If we now build these reps on Macy's, the successes will be credited to a brand synonymous with New York and the failures will be dismissed as simply being typical of the midwest. In the past year, if one looks closer at the State Street store, one would have noticed the likes of floor tiles repaired with heavy-duty tape or broken elevators that stay that way for long stretches of time or full store windows dedicated to Clorox sanitary wipes. It is indicative of a slow slide of Chicago's architectural gem into the same mediocrity that plagues Macy's Manhattan flagship.
I'm not a shopping guru, but the new house brands don't match the quality and detail of Field Gear I used to purchase. Another example personal to my experience is the loss of the classy Field's stationery department where one could purchase unusual greeting cards or even have business cards and stationery ordered. That has been replaced with a some greeting cards which a Macy's clerk recently described to me as being "not really a stationery department anymore...it's just a rack of cards by the luggage." Sorry, I can't personally comment on ladies apparel, but a couple of years ago, members of FieldsFansChicago.org compiled a list of over fifty major changes in merchandise since Macy's took over.
To clarify, most of us at FieldsFansChicago.org want a lot of things but it's not that we don't they will happen--it's that we don't think they will happen under the person Roger Ebert calls "the three-headed one," Macy's CEO, President and Chairman, Terry Lundgren. But we DO think they will happen when in the ever-shifting retail landscape. The question is how long will Macy's continue to exist as it currently does? The fact is that the Marshall Field's stores have had three different owners in the past six years. The fact is that Macy's is highly leveraged with billions of dollars of debt. Their current market capitalization is over $7 billion with heavy debt service. The Marshall Field's brands were last appraised in 2004 at over $420 million in May Department Stores annual report. That value is maximized when the brands are used with the State Street store. How can Macy's survive without capitalizing on their underutilized asset, Marshall Field's? Brands from Bigsby and Kruthers to AT&T Wireless to California's Lucky grocery stores to the Ford Taurus all came back. So can Marshall Field's. Does it really make sense to take such a unique store and make it one of 800 other Macy's? We don't think so.
Date: Saturday, January 9, 2010 12:56 pm CT
Posted by: Emilio Narez Rocasolano
Im, from spain and i want marshall fields back!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Date: Saturday, January 9, 2010 8:31 am CT
Posted by: Denise A.
am not a resident of Chicago but I am a longtime fan of the great old department stores: the ambience, the architecture, the history, the traditions...and, of course, the shopping. Macy's has ensured that the store formerly known as Marshall Field's has been dropped from my list of places to go when we visit Chicago.
Date: Friday, January 8, 2010 8:41 pm CT
Posted by: J.C.
Stepping into a Marshall Field's store always made me feel good. Marshall Field's exquisite, sophisication was amazingly always a comfortable, happy environment. I felt uplifted just being in a Marshall Field's store, and when I found the perfect purchases, I was overjoyed. Marshall Field's was not just a building where I bought things. Marshall Field's was my therapy and escape from an increasingly stressful, uncertain, and ever-changing outside world. Even if I had family health concerns, somehow, Marshall Field's allowed me to have a quiet respite away from any thoughts that had been heavy on my mind...and you know what(?), sometimes, I didn't need to even buy anything, but a cup of tea with a lunch or merely a piece of pie to feel good!!
I have never gotten those same sorts of feelings in any other store, be it Saks, Neiman's, Nordstrom, Lord & Taylor---absolutely no other store! Now Macy's executives have taken those ultimate "for the sheer fun of shopping" adventures and experiences away from tens of millions of us!
Yes, Marshall Field's, was not only my favorite store, but...even more so, my friend who saw me through a lot of life's events and challenges! Hope to see you once again, soon, my Friend!
Date: Friday, January 8, 2010 4:12 pm CT
Posted by: Nina Gaspich
CHICAGO READER ALERT!!! In today's "Straight Dope" column, Cecil Adams tackles the subject of Macy's vs. Field's. Read it, then respond via e-mail or US mail!
Date: Friday, January 8, 2010 2:42 pm CT
Posted by: Liz H.
Why couldn't Macy's just have come to Chicago by opening its own store buildings and mall locations, and not ruthlessly conquering and destroying the revered, legendary Marshall Field & Company stores?!
Many, many people came to Chicago to shop at Marshall Field's. Field's was a true destination...and truly Chicago.
Date: Friday, January 8, 2010 2:37 pm CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels
It would seem that we have a Field's friend on the radio. While channel surfing last week, I came across the Mancow radio program. The host was ranting about the lousy merchandise and service at Macy's. And how horrible the generic holiday windows appeared. They just did not say Christmas to anyone. He ending his five minute rant with "BOY, DO I MISS MARSHALL FIELDS!!!"
I bet the wacky folks at Macy's just love when that happens. Viva la boycott!
Date: Thursday, January 7, 2010 6:18 pm CT
Posted by: Jim
Crain's has a story on December Retail sales figures including Macy's. Be sure to comment and "recommend" posts that reflect your views.
Crains Chicago Business
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/cgi-bin/news.pl?id=36658
Date: Thursday, January 7, 2010 6:10 pm CT
Posted by: J.
They are talking behind the scenes about restoring Jay Leno to the Tonight Show and Conan to Late Night.
If NBC can do that, Macy's can certainly bring back Marshall Field's.
Date: Thursday, January 7, 2010 12:30 pm CT
Posted by: Zelda
It's all over the web how Macy's has scored a whopping .7% sales increase for December over last year. That's less than one percent! Compare to Toys R Us, up 4.6%, Saks Fifth Avenue, up 9.9%, Kohl's, up 8.8%, TJX up 14%, and Nordstrom up 7.4%. Even in a recovering economy, Macy's is barely showing signs of life.
And it's even more depressing to walk through the former Marshall Field's main store than ever. Yesterday there were hardly any customers, a broken escalator on the main floor Wabash side, STILL the unsightly "white" masking tape on the floor, and general sloppiness of the displays. So sad.
Longing for the return of the one, the only, Marshall Field's -- more than ever!
Date: Thursday, January 7, 2010 2:41 pm CT
Posted by: Field's Fan
Macy's press release on December results:
Macy's, Inc. Press Release:
Macy's, Inc. Same-Store Sales up 1% in December
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1372294&highlight=
Date: Wednesday, January 6, 2010 2:41 pm CT
Posted by: Sharon E.
Remember when CEO/President/Chairman Lundgren of macy's falsely promised, that the transition from Marshall Field's would be seamless, that we would not see any changes at all---everything would remain the same---except the name! The name change was all we were supposed to notice, according to him.
Everything has changed from the way it was when Marshall Field's. At least I wish I could say that the still-remaining brass MF&Co plaques, protected by the National Historical Preservation Act, were still cleaned and polished in the traditions, but sadly even that has changed for the worse. What an indignant lack of proper maintenance and what an insult to the great philanthropist, Mr. Field; to Chicago; and to national historical preservation for future generations! Management should be ashamed.
Date: Wednesday, January 6, 2010 10:59 am CT
Posted by: K.D.
Marshall Field and Company was the FIRST store to EVER give me revolving credit... and just reading all the articles regarding Macy taking over Fields, has depressed me gravely.
I remember all the years growing up in Chicago, going downtown at Christmas with my grandmother and having lunch at Marshall Fields, and being allowed to shop and pick 1 item in the store for Christmas was just one of the memories I truly needed. Those were the good days... the wonderful days of my growing up in Chicago!
I refuse to shop at Macy's.
Date: Wednesday, January 6, 2010 8:12 am CT
Posted by: C.C. in Chicago
I support the return of the Great Marshall Field's.
Hopefully one of these days we will see it come back because macy's doesn't belong here!
Date: Tuesday, January 5, 2010 5:52 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Like last year, I'm probably in the minority here in my view of Macy's post-holiday store closing announcement. I think most of the closings make sense. On the surface, I might even question why they don't close some others, since Macy's seems over-saturated in locations in some areas in California, for example. Sometimes I wonder if they are trying to keep some stores from closing to give the impression to investors that everything is OK. No matter what, I feel deep concern for employees, even if they are able to switch to a different store location.
I have never entered any of the five stores that are slated to close. However, from what I have researched on the web, the three mall locations are in centers where a significant number of the other anchors and shops have already closed. First and foremost, it seems to be a problem with the malls as a whole. A couple of the mall stores sound like they have crime problems and I might be concerned about shopping there even if they were Marhall Field's locations.
In the case of the two downtown stores, I'm a bit more uncertain. It is a blow to the community to have these two "Main Street" kind of stores close. Before making a decision to close the Idaho and Montana stores, did Macy's work with civic leaders to see if compromises could be made to keep these stores open?
Regardless, my perspective in no way diminishes my very strong assertion that running State Street and some other stores as Marshall Field's would make so much more sense to both customers and investors alike.
Date: Tuesday, January 5, 2010 5:50 pm CT
Posted by: gle
Here is the "Tribune" account of Messy's "Normal-Course" store closings:
"Macy's will shutter 5 stores in US that employ 307 workers,...." January 5, 2010 by Associated Press
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/sns-ap-us-macys-store-closures,0,4543184.story
Comment blog follows
Date: Tuesday, January 5, 2010 5:38 pm CT
Posted by: gle
Are we surprised at more news of Messy's after-Christmas store closings? From Messy's website www.macysinc.com:
"Macy's, Inc. to Close Five Stores as Part of Normal-Course Process"
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1370878&highlight=
Somehow, it doesn't seem to me that closing stores should be part of a "normal-course," like cleaning a closet. There is something abnormally sickeningly about the attitude. In fact, attitude might be a place to start on what should be pruned at Messy's. (And I'm sure most of us have a long list after that, needless to say.)
On another note, I encourage wearing/flaunting of our "I want my Marshall Field's" buttons. A grocery store clerk had hers on yesterday when she waited on me. It was a joy to see. I showed her my button and we cheered Field's together. Please don't store buttons in a box of heirlooms. Show the world why it shouldn't be normal for anyone to close stores or lay off employees!
Date: Tuesday, January 5, 2010 5:09 pm CT
Posted by: Phil Eichler
Well, Macy's has announced it's store closings today. A total of 5 and the first former Field's (really Hudson's) location to go; Summit Place Mall in Michigan. To be fair, Summit Place is a distressed property and was subject to redevelopment prior to the real estate market tanking. So no real surprise there. One interesting note: all five of the stores that are closing had between 50 and 70 employees. For those of you not familiar with retail, that number is beyond a skeletal crew, a store of this size (113,000 to 285,000 square feet) should have had a crew of at least twice that number to service customers, keep the store neat, etc. Field's always had at least that number of employees per store.
Date: Tuesday, January 5, 2010 3:22 pm CT
Posted by: drew
This article about a suburban Detroit macy*mart store closure is followed by some interesting comments:
http://www.freep.com/article/20100105/BUSINESS07/100105042/Macy-s-at-Summit-Place-Mall-prepares-to-close
How many more stores will close before the entire chain goes into bankruptcy? Shoppers have moved on and are unlikely to return any time soon.
Date: Tuesday, January 5, 2010 3:09 pm CT
Posted by: drew
The latest round of macy*mart store closures has been announced:
http://cincinnati.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/stories/2010/01/04/daily24.html?ana=yfcpc
One reason for the closures, according to Mr Lunkhead, is "when customers change shopping habits." Memo to Terry: did you ever wonder WHY "customers change shopping habits"? Perhaps people aren't "excited" by "the magic of macy*s" and have moved on. The garishly glaring red TV ads, ill-maintained stores, poor quality discount mart merchandise, nondistinct selections, and lack of "destination" status are only a few reasons why shoppers have moved on and have stayed away.
What EXACTLY does your store represent--quality, value, service, selection, unique merchandise? Most shoppers would agree--NONE of these!
Date: Tuesday, January 5, 2010 2:06 pm CT
Posted by: Robert
God Bless the GoogleMap people! I "googlemapped" 111 N. State Street...and it came up as "Marshall Field & Company Building!" Even the folks at Google must hate Macy's!
http://maps.google.com/?hl=en&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&q=201+N+State+St,Chicago,IL,60601
Date: Tuesday, January 5, 2010 11:25 am CT
Posted by: Kimo
Macy's Methodology has also blighted Honolulu. The famous Liberty House stores that were as much a part of Hawaii's history as was Marshall Field's and Chicago were taken over and "Macyized" stripping them of all regional charm. I am proud to say that I have not spent one cent in a Macy's store since their Field's takeover. By the way, Macy's made much hoopla about having Chicago Macy's parades ala New York when they were negotiating the takeover. Did they produce? No!!!
Date: Tuesday, January 5, 2010 6:47 am CT
Posted by: Susan NY
Green box....I remember the ones that were real boxes, not collapsible, white enamel with gold lettering in the corner. Not to mention the wonderful Christmas ones. There was logo-printed tissue and wrapping paper, with gold shield stickers. And of course the soft gold cord. I have had many boxes thoughtlessly stashed around the house doing storage service. I keep discovering them now that I am more appreciative since they are No More. I just cut out the Marshall Field & Company logo from an ancient mailing carton that held Christmas lights probably for 40 years. The box has crumbled but I have the best part saved now. I also have a few of the beautiful satin-lined jewelry boxes. Yes- what importance has a mere box? Well, a lot when it came from MF. No, I never saved the collapsible green ones since they meant a fall from the glory of the white ones, and they certainly had no staying power. Nothing like a good box to keep you in your customers' collective conscience.
Here is hoping this might be the year that Macy's decides it is time to get smart. Tissue-10 cents, box- a dollar, customer devotion to an outstanding institution - priceless.
Date: Monday, January 4, 2010 4:42 pm CT
Posted by: Richard in Houston
Published today on "Seeking Alpha":
Retail: The Good, The Bad and the Ugly
http://seekingalpha.com/article/180803-retail-the-good-the-bad-and-the-ugly
"A historically troubled retailer is Macy's (The Bad). Macyb�s has the highest Debt/Capital at 65.96%. Plus its debt grew this year -- a bad sign. Its most recent quarter Quick Ratio is 0.19. Its Interest Coverage (MRQ) is 0.40. Macy's could have trouble servicing its debt, especially if a double dip occurs. For now its FY2010 PE is a very good 11.48. It has a decent Price/Book ratio. Its current price, $16.76, is below the average analystsb� 1 yr target price of $21.54. Macy's 3-month chart shows it is over sold. It has been trending downward, but it had EPS growth of 20.55% in its most recent quarter. Things may be on the upswing for Macy's if the economy continues to recover. Still with Macy's trending generally downward at this point, I would not chose to invest. If it has a great Q4, I could change my mind, but I would wait at least until then (perhaps longer). Its 3-month chart is (shown in the full article at the link above)"
[ A place for comments follows the article at the website. ]
==========
Just think of how different Macy's picture could look if they had competent management that would actually listen to their customers and restore Marshall Fields to its rightful place as well as the other iconic regional stores. It still amazes me that Lundgren chose to eliminate a grand dame in retailing like Marshall Fields. I found a Marshall Fields box in my study closet and was reminded of how special it was to receive something with that classic green gift box. It meant quality and style. Likewise, other stores like I Magnin, Bullocks Wilshire and the like meant the same thing. Not to mention Burdine's, Foley's, Rich's, etc.
By the way, there has been enough interest in Foley's that a new book is being published to be released later this month.
Date: Sunday, January 3, 2010 7:16 pm CT
Posted by: Lindsay N.
If you were visiting Miami, wouldn't you be more likely to buy a swim suit at "Burdine's---The Florida Store" as it was called before it became a generic macy's? There just is not any compelling reason or feeling to stop into a macy's in Florida, when you have dozens back home. I would check out Burdine's swim suits though, if nothing else, just to walk into a department store with Florida roots, even though it were owned by the same company.
I'm in Miami to attend Tuesday's Orange Bowl to see Iowa beat Georgia Tech. (I'm from Deerfield, Illinois, attending the U of Iowa.)
I grew up with Marshall Field's and I miss it dearly. So do my friends. My friends detest macy's, not only because macy's does not have the class and style of Field's, but because they ruined a real institution for which we were proud to have in Chicago. We have lost so much in our young lives as far as real, memorable shopping experiences at Field's. We cannot imagine how much pain so many of you, who are older, feel in the loss of Marshall Field's.
(Just think of how the "macy-ification" has hurt their market share.
Date: Sunday, January 3, 2010 3:09 pm CT
Posted by: Jim W.
September, 2006: Remember the Macy exec at the official ceremonial day when Marshall Field's became Macy's, who predicted...---
"Those Field's Fans will forget all about Marshall Field's by this Thanksgiving. They will join the excitement, along with everyone else, and will be crowding into Macy's by Thanksgiving."
January, 2010: We, plus increasing crowds are still boycotting Macy's. In fact, No One is crowding into Macy's---only in Terry Lundgren's dreams.
We will continue to avoid Macy's until the day Marshall Field's returns in every aspect for which we came to know and love---distinctive, clean, inviting atmosphere; The best customer service; unique, wide-ranging, quality apparel, accessories, home merchandise; full-service restaurants; unique, "only-can-be-found-at-Field's items; and all the special service departments we relied upon to better our lives and those we love.
Keep spreading the word! Marshall Field's is what Chicago, the Nation and the World have been missing. We want Marshall Field's in 2010!!
Date: Sunday, January 3, 2010 2:30 pm CT
Posted by: gle
An article in the December 31, 2009 "Chicago Reader" about a woman who has played the piano in the Walnut Room for several years, also mentions that "... a dauntless band of boycotters has been handing out flyers and buttons on weekends." The writer said she had avoided Messy's "... since it ousted Marshall Field's ...." but didn't seem to think it so bad once she had to go in there to write the article.
"How to Get Gigs" December 31, 2009 by Deanna Isaacs
http://www.chicagoreader.com/chicago/macys-walnut-room-pianist-roberta-brown/Content?oid=1291205
There is a comment blog.
Date: Sunday, January 3, 2010 2:15 pm CT
Posted by: gle
At the New Year's Eve gathering I went to, someone brought up the recent comment by a Field's fan printed in the "Tribune" (and mentioned on this blog), and it generated quite a discussion about what mistakes Messy's has made and whether or not anyone shops there. Two families said they tried the Walnut Room the week before Christmas and got seated right away. One person said they went back Christmas Eve and there did seem to be more people, but there hadn't been up until then. (Remember Field's lines got progressively longer all through December.) Several persons said they hadn't checked out Messy's at all and asked if anyone even knew what it was like now. Everyone seemed to agree on what a wonderful Christmas family tradition Field's was and how it is a shame not to have it anymore.
Date: Sunday, January 3, 2010 1:08 pm CT
Posted by: Jennifer T.
I don't understand Macy's decision to make all their department stores with the same name. If I lived in NY, Florida, Texas or any other state, and was visiting Chicago, why would I go to a Macy's?? People are curious about stores in which they have not been, or have a new sounding name. I certainly do not take time out of my vacation to visit a Wal*Mart, JCPenney, Kohl's, Sears. Target etc. I understand visitors to Chicago have been checking out Carson Pirie Scott and Von Maur, because they are different from what they have back home.
What made Marshall Field's unique, was that it was a Chicago-born, big-city department store with a rich heritage of culture, history, philanthropy, goodwill, and superb assortment of merchandise. Its store brands were of top quality too. Field's had something for everyone!
It's really sad, particularly at this customary festive time. What a bad, bad decision, certainly not in the stockholders', nor in the potential customers' favor.
Date: Saturday, January 2, 2010 1:24 pm CT
Posted by: T.E.
As an ex. employee of Marshall Fields . . . (visual dept.) I have to say that this last weekend when I went to see "The Adams Family" at the Oriental Theater and parked across from Macy's. My friends knowing what a nut I used to be about checking out the windows and the store and making sure they saw EVERYTHING and letting them know what it takes to do such . . . they gave me the time to check out the place. I no desire . . . though I did give them props that I thought the two windows facing the parking structure "Be Dazzled" was reminesent of Field's of old . . . I didn't even care to cross the street to look up close. It did make me smile though, when I saw the old brass name plate (no longer polished) "MARSHALL FIELD'S & CO."
Date: Saturday, January 2, 2010 3:31 am CT
Posted by: Jim W.
Drew's comment about the British person who was looking for a fine, quality department store in Pittsburgh reminded me...
My brother-in-law is a policeman in Pittsburgh. At the International G-10 Economic Conference held earlier in 2009, the wife of a member of the British contingent asked him where to find Pittsburgh's famous department store. She wanted to buy something special to take back to London. My brother-in-law responded that Kaufmann's was taken over by Macy's, and there was no other local full-line department store.
The British lady's unhappy reply: "Macy's!!! That's New York. I've been there. I shall never return. Just Maxwell Street type of junk! What a pity. I was told Kaufmann's was more like Selfridge's of London! Too bad"
Date: Friday, January 1, 2010 7:23 pm CT
Posted by: Alexa
Overheard while waiting in line at a Chicago O'Hare Airport coffee shop:
Q: So, did you do any shopping while you were visiting Ed and Marilyn?
A: No, I always looked forward to shopping at Marshall Field's, and now its gone. It's been replaced with a (yuk) Macy's. We've got tons of Macy's back in Jersey.
(I gave them both your website and they vowed that they would continue to avoid Macy's.)
Date: Friday, January 1, 2010 3:36 pm CT
Posted by: John D.
The photograph glimpses of Chicago celebrations of New Year's Eve posted by "A Field's Fan", reinforces the fact that whenever people thought of what "Chicago" is and what logical landmark best represents it, the conclusion was the world-famous Marshall Field & Company Building on State Street with its unique clocks. Just as Times Square is to New York...the two MF clocks at State Street are the heart of New Year's Eve at Midnight. Crowds of Chicagoans cheerfully gathered under the clocks, exchanged midnight kisses, and continued the revelry into the New Year at that very spot---111 N. State Street, Chicago, Illinois!
Throughout the decades, Marshall Field's was as Chicago as it gets! It doesn't get any more CHICAGO than THAT!!
Marshall Field's IS Chicago...Chicago IS Marshall Field's!
As has been suggested earlier by "JC", make this our New Year's Resolution:
Let's do every thing we are able to bring back Marshall Field's in 2010!! Happy New Year!!
Date: Friday, January 1, 2010 10:29 am CT
Posted by: drew
A cousin's girlfriend works in a clothing store at a suburban Pittsburgh mall. She said a customer with an obvious New England accent was shopping in her store. He had purchased some clothing for family members and started a conversation with this young lady. The gentleman was looking for some other gifts for his family and was especially interested in better china, crystal and giftware. The young lady laughed and said, "You aren't going to find high quality things like that here anymore."
The New England visitor hadn't been in the Pittsburgh area for several year and stated he shopped at Horne's (later Lazarus) and Kaufmann's previously, but the only department store other than Sears and Penney's in his area was "that awful, dreadful macy*s." The gentlemen said people in the Boston area miss their local Jordan's and Filene's and totally avoid macy*s. He said he had hoped to find a quality department store in Pittsburgh. Evidently he didn't realize macy*s had destroyed all the regional department stores throughout the country.
The young lady told the man their business has dropped way down since Kaufmann's was downgraded to macy*s; in fact, the management of that particular mall has had requests from various stores wanting to move OUT of the macy*s wing since foot traffic has declined.
Date: Friday, January 1, 2010 CT
Posted by: FieldsFansChicago.org
Happy New Year...
...and buy your share of Macy's, Inc. (M) stock NOW so that you can attend the annual shareholders meeting in May.
Date: Thursday, December 31, 2009 CT 10:42 pm
Posted by: drew
As we begin a new decade, hope remains that the Red Star board of directors FINALLY faces the reality that Lundgrinch's arrogance and egocentric macy*fication has been an absolute failure with no possibility of a turnaround. Chicago has been the vanguard of a coast-to-coast rejection of the Red Star's nondescript, bland, poor quality, overpriced discount stores. The excuses (weather, conversion costs, calendar) and weak, poorly executed programs such as "my messy*s" have worn thin and the time has arrived for a RETURN to what actually worked. By "reorganizing" into smaller administrative units and "localizing" assortments, Lundgrinch realizes the cookie cutter department store hasn't met his grandiose projections.
Bring back Marshall Field's and the other regional department store icons--in quality, selection and service. Perhaps dismal holiday sales will force a well needed change--starting with the ouster of Lundgrinch and the recruitment of MERCHANTS who understand the importance of meeting customers' needs.
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2010
Date: Thursday, December 31, 2009 CT 1:02 pm
Posted by: JC
The begiinning of each new year means...
NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTIONS
Let each of us make the following resolution and make a conscious attempt to follow this critical one deep into 2010!
During each week to advise one person*...
(friend, family, business associate, bank teller, commuter train seat partner, doctor, dentist, taxi driver, neighbor, fellow worker, anyone)...
of the active boycott against Macy's and Bloomingdale's for what Macy's CEO, Chairman and President Terry J. Lundgren did to destroy Marshall Field's and dozens of other regional department stores.
Also write our website on a card and give to them as a personal reminder, or print the Field's Fans flyers from our website.
Tell each new person that Field's Fans are attempting in every way to bring back the world-famous, World-class, legendary Marshall Field's to Chicago! Chicago means Marshall Field's...Marshall Field's means Chicago!!
www.fieldsfanschicago.org (Make sure to stress the "org" to them by mentioning that it is not dot "com"!)
Thank You! HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
*Please feel free to exceed the goal by advising more than one person per week! Every person is important and counts.
Date: Wednesday, December 30, 2009 CT 8:50 pm
Posted by: Cassie R.
Re-reading this article from February, 2009 leaves me with the conclusion that the first of the employees to get fired were the Marshall Field's maintenance and housekeeping staff who took pride in their work, the artistic window display professionals, the buyers of the fine, unique merchandise, and finally the devoted, knowledgable, pleasant, and professional sales staff.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB123359845981440137.html#articleTabs%3Darticle
In summary, the people who really made Marshall Field's, the one and only Marshall Field's were cast aside. It clearly shows today!
Date: Wednesday, December 30, 2009 CT 7:38 pm
Posted by: Caitlin
Field's was simply the greatest store that ever was. It felt good to be in the store whether you were buying something or not. And it was the place to go for that special dress, the good furniture, the right towels, the best shoes. Macy's doesn't even begin to compare. In fact, Macy's is a lousy store even if you don't compare it to Field's. It's messy, not laid out well, has no class, and what quality they do have is hidden behind the mess. The passage of time has not made us forget Field's, it's just made us sadder and sadder. I will never shop at Macy's, and my whole family feels the same way.
Date: Wednesday, December 30, 2009 CT 6:23 pm
Posted by: A Field's Fan
Marshall Field's had a really cool Americanized London Taxi wrapped with green stripes similar to the green-striped Field's shopping bags. The taxi was used to make deliveries or even shuttle store guests around. A real eye catcher all around the city when you would see it!
When Macy's took over, they re-wrapped the taxi in black with red stars.
Well, add this to the list of Field's items discontinued by Macy's.
The Field's London Taxi was offered on eBay-UK last month. Stripped to its original silver paint, the auction closed without meeting the minimum. The top bid--in UK pounds --was equivalent to $3,290 (U.S.) The bidders are all in the UK--but the taxi is in suburban Westchester. Only 23,000 miles. Needs body and paint work.
http://offer.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewBids&item=270485790273
Date: Wednesday, December 30, 2009 CT 3:37 pm
Posted by: A Field's fan
The Chicago Tribune has a series of photos New Year's Eve on State Street from the 1930s through today.
Several of these photos are of the long standing tradition of celebrating the stroke of midnight under the Great Marshall Field's clocks:
1937
1981-1982
1985-1986
1979-1980
Date: Wednesday, December 30, 2009 CT 2:22 pm
Posted by: Eric B.
In this morning's Chicago Trib, I was delighted to see that the editors selected a reader comment about the loss of Marshall Field's as being one the most significant development in Chicago culture over the past DECADE. I couldn't agree more. Way to go, Jim! Bravo!
[Page three of "Live!" section also features a photo of a 2006 FieldsFansChicago.org rally on State Street. The online version consists only of text and can be viewed at http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/chi-1230-decade-readersdec30,0,1553590.story]
Date: Wednesday, December 30, 2009 CT 8:40 am
Posted by: Nancy H.
The past three years have been so different. In past years, I would drive the 275 miles each way to Chicago for an uplifting shopping extravaganza at Marshall Field's while staying in a hotel overnight. (I did the same thing in March, June and September.)
Marshall Field's represented a major event in getting me in the Christmas spirit, and fulfilling everyone's gifts on my shopping list...plus more! Marshall Field's was so special. Sorry to say, I have not been back to Chicago since macy's took over in their hostile buyout. I've heard too many tales of disrespect to the building and the collapse of customer service and quality merchandising. It's all so depressing what has happened. Marshall Field's was a shining beacon. There was no other store like Marshall Field's. Thank you all for helping to bring back our beloved Marshall Field's.
Date: Tuesday, December 29, 2009 CT 8:40 am
Posted by: M.S., Wisconsin
My mother and I MISS MARSHALL FIELD'S TERRIBLY. Though we lost Mayfair and Hilldale in Madison, the loss of the Chicago stores bothers us the most.
Date: Tuesday, December 29, 2009 CT 6:22 am
Posted by: Susan, Upstate NY
must add this comment, like others before. At our Christmas gathering (near Buffalo), I was astounded, when the subject just happened to turn to shopping, my sister-in-law commented, unprompted, that she has no use for Macy's= cheap goods, dirty, etc. Not even as good as Sear's. My brother-in-law chimed in about how the store looks like a dump when you enter. Walmart's was named as a comparable. They shook their heads and left no doubt where they stood on the matter of Macy's. I didn't egg them on, they just completely blew M-s away. Then I explained my position..... I had not earlier because I knew that the plight of Field's would not compute with them (hard to explain to anyone who never went there), so theirs was simply a heartfelt diatribe against M-s, pure and simple. Didn't even have a Field's component which as we know, is dry fuel for the fire.
How long does it take for an empire that size to crumble? I hate to see that happen, actually, because many will construe it to mean that any department store, and even Field's itself, has become redundant in our Walmart culture anyway. Is there NO ONE out there with the entrepreneurial genius to get this set right? No, Terryble, sit down.
Date: Monday, December 28, 2009 CT 11:08 am
Posted by: Pete
The Chicago Reader's Straight Dope Chicago forum has a thread about Marshall Field's. You can leave comments.
http://boards.straightdope.com/sdmb/showthread.php?t=544771
Date: Sunday, December 27, 2009 CT 10:44 pm
Posted by: Edgar M.
Macy's just can't seem to do anything in the right manner. Take a look at the State Street windows. The Letters to Santa theme is carried out in multiple windows when only one would have been sufficient. The comments from viewers (on YouTube) tell it like it is. One viewer states that the windows look like a high school art project, rather than a professional department store image.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fiCA1idGRBw
Date: Sunday, December 27, 2009 CT 4:03 pm
Posted by: Agnes C.
I would be out shopping this week-end between Christmas and New Year's at Marshall Field's State Street store if it were not temporarily displaced from its rightful building. To honor Marshall Field, I am devoting this week-end to learning all I possibly can about the founder, Marshall Field.
If you click on the following link, you may read some fascinating facts about the man, the gentleman, the family man, the businessman, the genius, the sportsman, and the philanthropist. Marshall Field was featured on TIME Magazine's front cover in February 24, 1930.
http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,881973,00.html
I want to see the return of Marshall Field's department stores while I am still able to enjoy. No one should have the power to deprive any of us the unique adventure and experience which Marshall Field's offered. Keep spreading the word wherever and whenever possible in your daily lives.
Date: Sunday, December 27, 2009 CT 3:51 pm
Posted by: A State Street spectator
The day after Christmas, promoted by the media as busiest bargain shopping day of the year, came with just the kind of weather Lundgren often blames for his lack of customers. What a joy, however, to see Field's fans out on State Street handing out buttons and leaflets in spite of the snow, and even more joy to see the smiles on people's faces when they grabbed those buttons--saying how they still miss Marshall Field's and hope it can come back.
Date: Sunday, December 27, 2009 CT 3:51 pm
Posted by: Agnes C.
Famous quotes of Marshall Field's to give us inspiration and to keep us going in our efforts:
http://thinkexist.com/quotes/marshall_field/
Here is a sample, among the several:
"Good will is the one and only asset that competition cannot undersell or destroy."
==========
The final resting place of Marshall Field in Chicago's Graceland Cemetery: A distinctive style all his own as with the department store, the Field Museum and all of his enterprises and philanthropic endeavors.
http://graveyards.com/IL/Cook/graceland/field.html
===========
Here is a little write-up on Marshall Field's State Street Store and the Oak Park Store in separate link). No other stores could compare!
Date: Sunday, December 27, 2009 CT 12:19 pm
Posted by: Patsy B.
I'm pleased to see the large groups of people clustering around all of you who are handing out "Field's Fans" pamphlets so often. Seems during November and December I have always observed people with whom you are speaking, as I am going to my condo.
It grieves me that the familiar trademark green MF shopping bags are no longer seen in busy airports and being carried on city streets, except in a few cases where people are carrying them for the boycott reminder. The Marshall Field's shopping bags truly meant Chicago. Over the years, I have seen the MF bags not only in the U.S., but around London, Paris, Milan, Rome, Tokyo and Seoul...and Moscow! I see nothing in macy's that interests me at all. There is nothing distinctive at all. I'm with you all!! Macy's made a fatal mistake in doing away with the landmark name, service and merchandising.
Date: Saturday, December 26, 2009 CT 10:59 pm
Posted by: Francine
I used to be able to do all my shopping at Marshall Field's. What a place for customer and employee alike! Marshall Field's had everything a person could want at all price levels. It had true class. Why can't we have anything nice, Mr. Lundgren? Why did you have to ruin our pride and joy? Your Macy's is nothing special at all.
Date: Saturday, December 26, 2009 CT 9:13 pm
Posted by: PDX Tim
Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays Fields Fans from the Pacific Northwest.
In what was a tough year for many, I have been fortunate enough to have stable employment. So my holiday budgeting was pretty much what it has been in years past, and in fact, I substantially increased my charitable contributions this year since I know many are needing those services. However, not one cent was spent at Macy's/Bloomingdales. That is a bit more difficult to do here since we have few alternatives in that price range. I even ordered online from Carson's this year and got some nice holiday rugs at a nice price.
This is going to be a very difficult time for Macy's in the coming few months. More debt coming due, tighter credit, and running out of time with excuses about consolidation charges, etc that are supposedly still affecting their earnings.
A peaceful, Happy New Year to all and thank you for all your work there in Chicago!
Date: Saturday, December 26, 2009 CT 7:07 pm
Posted by: Jon C.
As each new year approaches I consider it important to re-post a column by long-time, respected Chicago Tribune columnist Ellen Warren, originally published in March, 2007. The title "How's Macy's Doing?" became a launching pad for what became Ms. Warren's most responded by readers column of all time. The record still stands.
Field's Fans readers who are new to this site will especially be interested in reading the many pages of replies by readers in support of Marshall Field's. What was said back in 2007, rings even more true as we enter 2010!
http://featuresblogs.chicagotribune.com/shopping_ellen_warren/2007/03/hows_macys_doin.html
Happy New Year 2010, Field's Fans!! Let's make the year 2010, THE year of the return of Marshall Field's! Continue to do all you can in spreading the word, one by one to others. Every person counts.
Date: Saturday, December 26, 2009 CT 6:00 pm
Posted by: Jim McKay
Thanks to all of those who made leaflet and button distribution under the Great Clock today a huge success this afternoon, especially "gle", Carol, and A.
Not only the store, but all of State Street seemed extremely quiet, especially for the day after Christmas, even though there was some snow. It seemed more like a Saturday afternoon in late October rather than the day after Christmas.
The one thing that stood out about this year's holiday season leafletting was the consistently enthusiastic support our cause received. There seemed to be greater support this year for the return of Field's compared to last year.
Date: Saturday, December 26, 2009 CT 11:42 am
Posted by: B. Nathanson
I would like to hear Macy's make a New Year's Resolution to make sure the housekeeping staff properly cleans and polishes the historic Marshall Field & Company plaques at each of the corners of the building. There is no excuse whatsoever for not doing so out of respect to Marshall Field himself, and to the historical significance of the store being on the National Historic Register.
My wife is a store manager of a nationwide retail chain, housed in a historic downtown building, and her corporate directors insist that her store be always represent the company in the best light possible to honor its heritage and Chicago! It's all part of management!
Date: Saturday, December 26, 2009 CT
Posted by: FieldsFansChicago.org
Happy Kwanzaa...
Date: Friday, December 25, 2009 5:41 pm CT
Posted by: Matt, Dayton, Ohio
I'm from Chicago and presently in Dayton/ Cincinnati and have a lot of Chicago friends here.
Keep fighting the fine fight.
Date: Friday, December 25, 2009 12:30 am CT
Posted by: Mike
I wear a button proudly wherever I go, and get nothing but positive feedback.
I hated dayton-hudson (target) when they moved the candy makers out of the 13th floor, and have yet to re-enter any of their stores. That started when they started separating shirts by brand and not by size. yech.
what is one to do but vote with one's feet?
Date: Friday, December 25, 2009 CT
Posted by: FieldsFansChicago.org
Merry Christmas...
Date: Thursday, December 24, 2009 9:09 am CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
This Saturday afternoon, the first day of Kwanzaa and Boxing Day, we'll be out under the Great Clock at State and Washington distributing leaflets and buttons. If you would like to assist, please email us at Leaflet@FieldsFansChicago.org by 9 am on Saturday or call 312.662.8980 to coodinate scheduling. You can just show up as well, but sometimes we take breaks so call the number if we happen to step away.
Regarding Jimmy Gimbels' post about the trumpets, when passing out leaflets and brochures under the Great Clock, I see a lot of people having their photos taken in front of the Marshall Field's plaques and then they also take photos of the trumpets. I tell those people to check out darrid.com and see how much better the trumpets looked when they were Marshall Field's.
In response to the comments about the escalator fire at Herald Square, I don't think any of us can say why it started. If it was one of the wooden escalators, then keep in mind they are a part of history--the same history that Macy's should understand about Field's. But when I see photos of the Marshall Field's plaques from 3-4 years ago and compare them with today's, it sure doesn't look like they are being kept up.
Merry Christmas and Happy Kwanzaa, everyone!
In admiration and respect for all that you do to help restore Marshall Field's.
Jim
Date: Thursday, December 24, 2009 2:36 am CT
Posted by: John D.
The best form of LOCALIZATION, Chairman Lundgren, is to bring back Marshall Field's not only in name, but also service, style and unique merchandising in all respects. Call it "My Marshall Field's". Believe me, it will be a total, resounding success, without question!
Date: Thursday, December 24, 2009 12:04 am CT
Posted by: Elizabeth A.
My husband grew up in Chicago and visited Marshall Field's often. I grew up in western Canada and had never heard of Marshall Field's or Frango Mints until 2004, when he first introduced me to the store. I was hooked! It was a great pity that Macy's took them over.
I feel very fortunate that I had more than one opportunity to shop at Marshall Field's when it was Marshall Field's. However, whenever we go back to Chicago, we always visit the store and have lunch in the Walnut Room and stock up on Frango Mints.
A question: We both like Monopoly and I know there was a Marshall Field's edition produced in 1997. Anyone know how to acquire a copy?
Date: Wednesday, December 23, 2009 10:00 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
A couple of Field's experiences I had in the past day.
I was at the German market at the Daley Center. I asked in one shop that had a lot of Chicago ornaments if they had any with Marshall Field's-connected imagery. (They did, although the connections were subtle--nothing like the clock ornaments they used to have at Field's) The clerk then commented how they had a lot of inquiries for Marshall Field's clock ornaments--but people didn't want to buy the ones at Macy's. The clerk indicated that apparently some of these inquiries came from shoppers who didn't like the ones for sale at Macy's while others simply didn't want to shop at Macy's.
Today I was at the Doctor and again at a government facility where I had to stand in line. I kept getting all sorts of complements and inquiries about how to get buttons--but most of all, everyone wished for Field's to come back.
Date: Wednesday, December 23, 2009 5:44 pm CT
Posted by: M.S.
I miss Marshall Field's!
Date: Wednesday, December 23, 2009 5:39 pm CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels
I just came across a wonderful print of the Marshall Field's building at Christmas time. In fact, the print is called "Holidays at Marshall Field's." The original and numbered print is by local artist Marla Shega. The piece was completed using a B/W pen and "stipple" technique; then hand tinted in watercolor with gold accents. It is absolutely beautiful. I've search high and low for an artwork for my office. This is it. The 8x10" print is about $60. I found mine in Long Grove at "The Keeping Room. The artist also sells from her website: www.marlaspalette.com. The picture online does not do it justice.
Compare the print to what you see at State Street with pieces of the trumpets missing, chipping paint and horrid red stars replacing the shaft of wheat medallions.
Has anyone else noticed how artists are depicting the famous building on State Street as Marshall Field's? I would imagine there is little demand for a print of a Macy's store. Remember when Field's actually had a gift shop with all things Marshall Field's sold from paperweights, to handbags to Christmas tree ornaments. Tourists - and locals - kept the sales associates quite busy.
Date: Wednesday, December 23, 2009 5:27 pm CT
Posted by: gle
I love reading this blog. It is encouraging to see how support has continued and grown for a return of our beloved Chicago institutuion--Marshall Field's.
Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa and Happy New Year Field's Fans!
Date: Wednesday, December 23, 2009 5:17 pm CT
Posted by: gle
It looks like the "LA Times" article is re-printed in the "Tribune," with a SEPARATE comment blog.
"Hoping for green holiday, Macy's refashions itself" December 22, 2009 by Andrea Chang
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/la-fi-macys22-2009dec22,0,4519551.story
Date: Wednesday, December 23, 2009 4:59 pm CT
Posted by: Janice D.
Mr. Lundgren:
Emotional attachment to a store builds customer loyalty. Nostalgia is formed from many, many years of memorable shopping experiences or memorable service, memorable selection, memorable quality and memorable extras that only Marshall Field & Company could and did provide in exceedingly fine style. That's what keeps customers coming back from thousands of miles around! How dare you insult Marshall Field's customers with your blatant flippant disregard and arrogance.
Remember: The Customer is Always Right.
Remember: Give the Lady (Gentleman) what she (he) wants!
Now you insult us more by your nostalgic and emotional commercials and sound-bites about macy's New York heritage...and why we should love macy's.
Marshall Field's...the one, the only...is what we all logically, loyally, emotionally, and nostalgically want. It's simply good business sense!
Date: Wednesday, December 23, 2009 2:30 pm CT
Posted by: Kurt G.
The escalator fire at Macy's Herald Square store over the weekend is indicative of Lundgren's "run it into the ground" style of management. No improvements and extremely limited maintenance, because it's all about the "bottom line". The public can find this at Wal-Mart and other similar and cheaper outlets and will tire of the lack of variety and quality. There ARE times when people want to own something better. The world's major cities all have department stores offering higher quality and better value than Macy's. The pickings are slim in Chicago, nowadays.
Date: Wednesday, December 23, 2009 1:07 pm CT
Posted by: Jennifer S. (age 27)
Seeing the one, lone customer in the photo accompanying the L.A. Times story on Macy's caused me to think about how few customers can be seen in the Chicago-area macy stores! (I burst out loud laughing with I saw that one woman in macy's Christmas shop! I'll bet the photographer was even chuckling.)
That one photo is enough to refute any statement of Chairman Lundgren that things are going along fine for Macy's. Customers obviously are not enthralled with Macy's Christmas Holiday Lane shop.
http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-macys22-2009dec22,0,4906028,full.story
Date: Wednesday, December 23, 2009 9:09 am CT
Posted by: Jim W.
Chairman Lundgren clearly appears to be admitting in his own unique way that he was wrong.
First of all, Chairman Lundgren stated that making macy's into a national department store was a bold new idea and what people wanted. Nothing was further from the truth and reality. (What about the dozen or so stores that have been national for a much, much longer time?---Sears, JCPenney, Kohl's, K-Mart etc)
Secondly, he mocked Field's Fans for what he called "emotional attachment" to Marshall Field's, when it was just a store. He and his cronies told us to "get over it"! Now we see from the LA Times article that Chairman Lundgren os using the "emotional attachment" nostalgia maneuver in the macy TV ads and in what was revealed in the LA Times story.
Thirdly, Chairman Lundgren has been bragging about the "my macy's" localization plan. After nationalizing the macy name, after dumping dozens of venerable regional department store names, now he wants to go back, while saving as much face as possible for his inflated ego, and promote the theme that each city's stores are individual and customized.
Well, Field's Fans, it seems that Chairman Lundgren has realized the error of his ways. Although would never directly admit it, by his own statements and action plans, he is frantically attempting to save a sinking ship by rearranging the deck chairs!
Keep up the fine work, FF's! Keep telling your friends and family about macy's at Christmas holiday gatherings. Continue boycotting Bloomingdale's and macy's! Keep writing to newspapers, other media, and posting to this website! Carry your Marshall Field's shopping bags wherever you go! What we are doing after three years is having a tremendous effect.
May the spirit of the season be with each and every one! Seasons Greetings! Merry Christmas to all who observe the holiday for which Marshall Field's was fabulously known. Recall the ad slogan used in the 1990s---"Marshall Field's IS Christmas."
Date: Tuesday, December 22, 2009 11:31 pm CT
Posted by: Carlos C., Mexico City
We must keep working together until we succeed in our petition.
Thank you very much.
Date: Tuesday, December 22, 2009 5:49 pm CT
Posted by: Paul R.
Finished my Christmas shopping today. Lord & Taylor Oak Brook & Von Maur Yorktown. Several hundred dollars worth of gifts I would have bought at Field's Oak Brook in the past but sadly that's not an option now.
On the other hand I never would have been able to park so close to Field's to walk over to Lord & Taylor before either!
Date: Tuesday, December 22, 2009 1:39 pm CT
Posted by: J.C.
Wasn't it Macy's Chairman, CEO & President Lundgren who told Marshall Field's customers that they were being too nostalgic?! Now Macy's is using Nostalgia and emotion.
Be sure to check out and comment on this article about Macy's in the L.A. Times, a Tribune paper.
http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-macys22-2009dec22,0,7231786.story
Date: Tuesday, December 22, 2009 10:14 am CT
Posted by: Phyllis S.
I have not found anyone in the past three years who loves macy's because of what they did to destroy Marshall Field's. In my wide sphere of friends, none claims to have sho pped at macy's this holiday season. It's really sad that Marshall Field's---an authentic Chicago institution and a full-range department store was robbed from us.
Date: Tuesday, December 22, 2009 8:22 am CT
Posted by: Pete
An article that appears on the front page of today's New York Times has a couple of bits that would make me chuckle if it weren't for the fact that it is so sad.
The article is, "When Holiday Shoppers Get Heroe's Welcome" and can be viewed at http://www.nytimes.com/2009/12/22/style/22service.html?ref=business .
One line is, "There are improvements not only at fancy stores, but also at mall chains like J. Crew, Gap and Macy's." Yes, J. Crew and Gap, that's the company that Macy's keeps. Compare that with Marshall Field's which was really special and in class all by itself.
And then there is another line where a Saks exec talks about how "every customer is valuable" especially today since "there are fewer of them." Clearly Macy's doesn't value their customers or they wouldn't push away millions of Field's customers.
One consultant says, "Retailers are notoriously bad at understanding what the consumer wants." Well, Marshall Field's fans have been shouting with millions of letters and protests and Terry Lundgren STILL doesn't get that Chicago shoppers want Marshall Field's--Not Macy's!
And then it talks about Macy's affixing bar codes to potential gifts: "(Macy's) executives recognized that people seeking to return an unwanted gift -- an ugly wallet, a goofy sweater -- do not want to offend the gift giver by asking for the receipt.." Right on! Ugly wallets, goofy sweaters, and more! That's what we've come to expect at Macy's and not what we would expect at Marshall Field's! Of course, I would chalk it up to the gift giver not having any taste that they would shop at Macy's.
Date: Monday, December 21, 2009 10:23 pm CT
Posted by: Gwynne F.
I grew up in the Chicago area, and the highlight of downtown trips was to go to Marshall Field's. I would meet my mother in the juice bar. At Christmastime we would have lunch in the Walnut Room around the giant tree. As little children we were told that the REAL Santa was at Field's! I don't hate Macy's, but I am so disappointed that they choose to trample on Chicago's rich traditions. "Macy's Own" Frango Mints? Excuse me? Really! Bring back Marshall Fields! Absolutely!
Date: Monday, December 21, 2009 8:50 pm CT
Posted by: JIMMY GIMBELS
Happy holidays fellow Field's fans. I am pleased to announce that not one dime was spent at the red star store during 2009. And once again, several of us at work blocked the purchase of Macy's gift cards to use at the corporate holiday party. Another $2000 lost by Macy's.
I had to chuckle when Macy's proclaimed the 2009 holiday (please don't say Christmas at Macy's) windows as "spectacular." A big call out to those wacky folks at Macy's: If you want to see truly spectacular Christmas windows, pick up the book "Christmas on State Street" by Robert Ledermann. (2002, Arcadia Publishing). See pages 82 to 128.
Always remember dear readers: MARSHALL FIELD'S IS CHRISTMAS, and Macy's is, well, um...Macy's.
Date: Monday, December 21, 2009 8:31 pm CT
Posted by: Jackie C.
Just a reminder:
Boycott not only Macy's, but also Bloomingdale's. (Macy's owns Boomingdale's!) Remind your family, friends and business associates & contacts, not to buy anything at Bloomingdale's and Macy's.
Date: Monday, December 21, 2009 4:53 pm CT
Posted by: A.D.
I am a native Chicagoan and whenever I visit my home I always miss Marshall Fields!!!
Date: Monday, December 21, 2009 3:53 pm CT
Posted by: Nina Gaspich
I have been a bit of an apostate among Field's Fans in that I do buy one, and only one, item offered at Messy's - Frango Mints for holiday gifts. And that's only because I can't get them anywhere else and I don't really like shopping on line that much.
But now that the takeover of Frango by Macy's is in full flower, it appears that they can't even get THAT right!
One of the "new" offerings in the Frango department at Old Orchard was a package of chocolate Santas, which I bought with the idea of distributing the little treats in a variety of gifts. Silly me thought that the candies would be individually wrapped, like the cheapies at Walgreen's or the more upscale ones at Fannie May.
To my shock and horror, when I came home and opened the box, the chocolate Santa's were UNWRAPPED! Not only unappealing on aesthetic grounds, but maybe unsanitary too.
Needless to say, I took it back and got a refund.
Wow, they even messy'd up the venerable Frango mints!
Date: Monday, December 21, 2009 2:30 pm CT
Posted by: St Pete's, FL
KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!! A PARTY I WAS AT LAST NIGHT HERE IN FLA, 3 OF US WHOSE FAMILIES WERE FROM CHICAGO SAT AND REMINISCED ABOUT OUR SHOPPING DAYS AT MARSHALL FIELDS AND HOW MUCH WE LOVED THAT STORE, AND EXPRESSED OUR ANGUISH AT IT BECOMING JUST ANOTHER macy's (federated --BOO HISS.) P. C., St. Petersburg, Fl
Date: Monday, December 21, 2009 11:42 am CT
Posted by: Sheila F.
A group of us were conversing last week at our church Christmas dinner. The subject of how boring shopping is now-days with the same stores in all cities. Several added that they would drive or fly into Chicago from Denver for pre-Christmas shopping and dining at Field's as well as trips in the the Spring and Fall.
Several of us are in the types of jobs involving a lot of travel. We all drive right past shopping centers with Macy's because we have some back home and they are just as common as Sears and JCPenney. In times past we would stop in Burdine's, Jordan Marsh, Strawbridge & Clothier, Robinson's and Goldsmith's of Memphis because they got our attention as being a different name. (We realize they may be a part of a mega-corporation, but STILL the regional names got us into their stores, and...we did end up buying!) Just think of all the people in the U.S. (and internationally) who feel the same way...and just drive right on by!!
Even if macy's execs are happy with their sales results, just think what the revenues would be if they kept the regional names, and most of all, everything that made Marshall Field's the premier department store in culture, service, merchandising at all prices, and added services---dining, wines, photography, fine furniture...and, how could I almost forget...fresh FRANGO mints, according to the original recipe!
A member from Chicago informed us about your website. Best wishes and Good Luck with the restoration of Marshall Field's in all respects!
Date: Monday, December 21, 2009 7:57 am CT
Posted by: Darrid
Fire at Herald Square.
Glad no one was hurt, but Macy's lack of maintenance was I'm sure the cause judging from what we see here in Chicago.
Date: Sunday, December 20, 2009 5:49 pm CT
Posted by: Chicagoan
I am also a big Field's supporter and hope to see the store reopen soon on State Street!
Date: Sunday, December 20, 2009 4:05 pm CT
Posted by: gle
Twas the week before Christmas, and in front of Messy's store people ran to and fro just trying to keep warm. It was cold, it was rainy, it was miserable and dark. A few looked at windows, but did not take time to park. Field's fans handed out leaflets, snatched by those who ran by, and those who stopped simply said "We miss Fields, me-oh-my."
I turned on PBS at home later than night, hoping for a little cheer to confront all the blight. Then what to my wondering eyes should appear, but a PBS program--remembering Field's Christmas years! We saw Aunt Holly, Uncle Mistletoe and little Freddie mouse. We heard Amy Meadows, Carleen Wald and other good Field's workers in-house. A majestic Christmas tree decked the Walnut Room again. Bright ornaments and windows cheered up crowds from back when. This was just what was needed, considering where I'd just been. The contrast was clear WE NEED FIELD'S AGAIN.
(The above-mentioned program aired Friday evening December 18 on PBS WTTW Channel 11, a re-broadcast originally hosted by the late John Callaway).
Date: Sunday, December 20, 2009 2:08 pm CT
Posted by: Dave H
As a child I grew up in South Bend, IN. My fondest memoirs are coming to Marshal Fields on State state. We also had a Marshal Fields in South Bend. My mom was very said when Marshal Fields became Macy's. To this day she misses Marshal Fields and treasures objects bought at and with the Marshal Fields brand. I now live in Chicago as I finish my doctorate. Macy's is awful, the quality is bad and the customer service is worst.
Date: Sunday, December 20, 2009 12:43 pm CT
Posted by: Robert H
I loved reading Eleanor's post about her shopping experiment with the Marshall Fields bag! This speaks volumes for our cause!! It also reminds me that it take a bigger man to admit his mistakes this being said how small do you think Terry is? Can you just imagine how packed 111 N State would be with the return of Marshall Field and Company on opening day and beyond? Merry Christmas to all and thanks for all you do for the return of Marshall Fields!!!
Date: Sunday, December 20, 2009 12:24 pm CT
Posted by: S.B.
I haven't entered a Macy's since the change... but I was talking to a friend and he mentioned that Frangos are extremely discounted. That's the only thing he buys from Macy's and he was surprised to see how much they were discounted before the holidays. I remember when Frangos were so much in demand that Field's would have a kiosk in Woodfield Mall that ONLIY sold Frangos. Frangos' were a great only-in Chicago gift...
Date: Saturday, December 19, 2009 9:23 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Thanks to all who made leaflet and button distribution on State Street today -- especially Loren. About 1,700 leaflets and 1,300 pin-on buttons were passed out to eager Field's Fans on State Street.
There were so many interesting stories from the Field's supporters which I hope to recount in the coming days.
Loren summed it up best when he said how great it was to see so many people's eyes light up and turn happy when they got a button and/or a leaflet.
Date: Saturday, December 19, 2009 8:26 am CT
Posted by: John M
I just found your website and am very interested in your cause. I live in SW Michigan and travel to Chicago 15-20 times a year, and have not stepped foot into the Macy on State. I have always been a proponent of MF, and would like to see it come back to what it was.
Date: Saturday, December 19, 2009 1:27 am CT
Posted by: N. H.
A brother-in-law of mine is an executive with a huge shopping center conglomerate. He states that wherever there was a Marshall Field's store, that area of the shopping center received the most shoppers like a magnet. He continues that when other retailer's such as the many small shops in the mall and the Sears, JCPenney are common, Marshall Field's would make each mall a magnet destination spot.
Now with virtually every mall having the same Sears, macy's and JCPenney mix, there is no compelling reason to draw visitors, tourists, and residents to malls. Therefore the shopping center and mall management/ownership companies are hurting like crazy, thanks to macy's becoming as common as common can be.
Terry Lundgren's decision to nationalize the macy name and mass-merchandising operations, and dumping regional department stores, is the worst business decision in modern retail history. How ignorant.
Date: Friday, December 18, 2009 9:34 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Our on-going leaflet and button distribution campaign on State Street was warmly received both yesterday and today after work. Special thanks to "gle" for makingit possible.
Date: Friday, December 18, 2009 8:59 pm CT
Posted by: H.
My grandmother worked for Marshall Fields for over 20 years. I have lots of great employee pins, etc. I wish they would convert it back!
Date: Friday, December 18, 2009 5:33 pm CT
Posted by: Linda
I'm so glad to hear about this group!!
Date: Friday, December 18, 2009 2:22 pm CT
Posted by: Wendy H.
Love & Miss Marshall Fields!
Date: Friday, December 18, 2009 10:16 am CT
Posted by: Jeff S.
Was at the Oak Brook Store last evening, (12-17-09)and on the lower level was a big round table loaded with Frango mints in commemorative boxes; on the box it said Marshall Field and Company! The box even has the beautiful MF&Co design too!! Could this be a precursor of things to come?? A Christmas miracle?? One can only hope for the full return of Marshall Field and Company!
Date: Friday, December 18, 2009 10:14 am CT
Posted by: gayle
Hi all,
Happiest of holidays to you and your families!
I just bought a 1940's era magazine on Ebay that had a pictoral spread on Marshall Field's. The caption on one of the pictures reads:
"while Macy's in New York is known as the store that won't be undersold, Marshall Field's is known for its exceptional service and quality." Another caption states that Field's had price points for every budget, and treated all customers with the same respect.
Gosh, even in the 40's macy's apparently couldn't compete with Field's in service and quality.
Some things never change...
gayle
Date: Friday, December 18, 2009 10:10 am CT
Posted by: K.H. in L.A.
This Marshall Field's fan from Los Angeles had the pleasure of shopping there in the early 1990s in Chicago and at Hudson's in Detroit. The customer service and the quality was so good.
Date: Friday, December 18, 2009 9:30 am CT
Posted by: H.N.
We lost our Marshall Fields in the Mayfair Mall and I have fond memories of traveling to the State Street store as a child.You'll need to register to leave comments, but it is well worth the effort.
Date: Friday, December 18, 2009 9:28 am CT
Posted by: MarcieI REALLY miss Marshall Field's.Date: Friday, December 18, 2009 4:48 am CT
Posted by: Dennis H.I would like you to know that every Christmas season, I wear my buttons non-stop. I am also writing a novel based on route 66 between 2 time lines. The home base of course is Chicago and along with mentioning Marshall Field's several times, I have my characters boycotting Macy's in Chicago but also letting people know Macy's is fine when in New York.Date: Thursday, December 17, 2009 11:35 pm CT
Posted by: RichA quote from "Minding the Store" by Stanley Marcus
" We proved early in our history that it was possible to sell both the finest, most expensive merchandise, to those who could afford it, and simultaneously, well-selected, good quality merchandise, at moderate prices, to those in other income strata."
Mr Marcus was a Great merchant. Neiman Marcus started to acsend the retail heights after WWII in the 50's, and started to plan expansion.-------
By this time, in contrast, Marshall Field and Company which had already made this retail discovery and breakthrough, some 60 to 70 years earlier was celebrating 100 years and already had well-established branch stores in Lake Forest, Oak Park and Evanston, and was planning further suburban expansion, as well as having amassed an empire of other department stores around the country creating a retailing empire that would continue in the spotlight for several more decades.
Neiman Marcus seems to have forgotten its' desire to offer well-selected moderate merchandise, however, until its' untimely destruction, Marshall Field's continued to offer ------
The finest, most expensive merchandise, to those who could afford it and, simultaneously, well-selected, good quality merchandise, at moderate prices to those in other income strata.
To the once and Future Marshall Field's! I MISS those green boxes and the beautiful gold script!
Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy New Year to ALL
Date: Thursday, December 17, 2009 10:18 pm CT
Posted by: Laura FerrinOde to Marshall Field's:
The Marshall Field's stores (both downtown and at Old Orchard Shopping Center) were a big part of my heritage growing up in Illinois. I would shop just at Field's and Lord 'n Taylor for clothing and shoes/boots until I moved to Utah to attend BYU.
Macy's has a totally different (cheap) connotation and feel than Marshall Field's. I went to a Macy's here in Utah recently and could literally find nothing to buy there.
Nordstrom is very different than Field's (sort of nouveau riche, rather than classy like Field'). It doesn't have 1/2 the variety that Field's used to have, and Nordstrom's clothing is of highly variable quality. You see the same brands in their juniors department that every other store is also selling.
I used to go to Marshall Field's whenever I was in Chicago. All of my shoes used to come from Field's. They had beautiful shoes. I have found no satisfactory replacement for shoe shopping.
Field's items were definitely worth every dime. I still have 111 State brand sheets from there that my mother purchased for me more than 10 years ago. Thin high-thread count sheets that I continue to use in rotation with my other sheet sets today. I also have some 111 State t-shirts, which are still in style and look brand new, from 5 or 10 years ago.
Marshall Field's was part of Chicago's culture and unique heritage. My family and I used to walk by the window displays downtown and go to see the large tree inside around Christmastime each year.
It was like the Art Institute of Chicago. A fixture, a landmark, a work of art in and of itself, with its contents also full of beauty and wonder.
I hope that Marshall Field's fans can bring it back. It was so much more than a store or brand.
Attorney Laura Ferrin
Salt Lake City, UtahDate: Thursday, December 17, 2009 9:28 am CT
Posted by: L.S.In 2005 I was working in Chicago for serveral weeks. I was looking for a patent leather black clutch. I asked a sales associate if there were any such items in Marshall Field's. The sales associate advised that there were not any in stock. About two minutes later, a tap on my shoulder by a buyer for Marshall Fields advising the item will be available in future seasons.
Exceptional Customer Service!
Never in Macy's have I recieved any such service. I should be honest, I don't shop at Macy's.
Best Wishes in getting Marshall Fields back in Chicago.
Sincerely,
Lena Smith
Henrico, VADate: Thursday, December 17, 2009
Posted by: Jim McKay, WebmasterThank you for your patience while we resolve a technical issue with our blog. Thank you for your writings during the past week. These will all appear and be updated by the end of the day on
Friday, December 18Saturday, December 19, 2009.Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2009 5:31 pm CT
Posted by: gleSteve Dahl's column in the "Chicago Tribune" has some comments about Messy's vs. Marshall Field's.
"Jingle bellyaching: Skipping Christmas has a nice ring to it" December 16, 2009
http://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/chi-1216-steve-dahldec16,0,6812484.column
There is a comment blog (free easy registration required) for those interested.
Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2009 4:58 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKayThis week's issue of "Crain's Chicago Business" (December 14, 2009) contains a letter to the editor suggesting Marshall Field's should be brought back to State Street:
"Bringing it all back," page 14
Date: Wednesday, December 16, 2009 12:00 pm CT
Posted by: M.K."Fields" is like apple pie and baseball.
I have not stepped foot in Fields since Macey's bought them. This is the same for the rest of my family.
M.K.
Field's FanDate: Wednesday, December 16, 2009 9:22 pm CT
Posted by: P.F.I am a loyal Marshall Field's shopper and refuse to give into Macy's. I grew up with Marshall Fields, worked there and now only go into Macy's to get Frango Mints (which I take from the store in a Field's bag).Date: Tuesday, December 15, 2009 5:03 pm CT
Posted by: gleMessy's is announcing their stores that will be open 24 hours for the holidays, from their official website www.macysinc.com:
"Macy's Goes Round-the-Clock...."
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1365904&highlight=
Something seems to be missing from the list--I wonder why.
Date: Tuesday, December 15, 2009 8:55 pm CT
Posted by: BobMy Brother work for Fields in [ location withheld ] in the men's clothes department. He was let go due to Macy's eliminating commission sales. He was so good that a person coming in to buy a tie, might leave with the tie, shirt, slacks and sport coat. He was truly a pro.
My family wears our Field's Fans buttons religiously.
Date: Tuesday, December 15, 2009 8:32 pm CT
Posted by: CherylWe grew up in Chicago and visit frequently.....and have lots of memories of Marshall Field's.
We want our Field's back! I'm on a mission; it's on my Facebook wall.
Date: Monday, December 14, 2009 7:12 pm CT
Posted by: PeteThanks to everyone who is actively fighting for the change back to our beloved Marshall Field's.Date: Monday, December 14, 2009 6:44 pm CT
Posted by: A.Do you really think that Mrs. Lundgren wears Jessica Simpson shoes?
I don't.
Date: Monday, December 14, 2009 4:24 pm CT
Posted by: J.N.Von Maur carries a great selection of Waterford Crystal at all of its locations.
Von Maur isn't Marshall Field's--but it comes close in terms of class, quality and service.
Date: Sunday, December 13, 2009 7:34 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKayThanks to gle for her special help in our leafleting program. We passed out leaflets and buttons on State Street Friday evening and again earlier today. We were warmly received.
Mark Brown's column in Today's Sunday Sun-Times has a bit about Christmas shopping. He writes that giving Macy's Frangos isn't quite the same as giving Ma rshall Field's Fangos.
In an attempt to answer the question from Thursday, I was in the Woodfield's Macy's over the weekend. None of the employees could tell me which Frangos were made by Cupid Candies in Chicago and which were made elsewhere.
I did take a look at their Christmas ornaments--specifically the ones based on the Field's Great Clock. The quality and the prices were about half of what they were four years ago during the last Christmas as Marshall Field's. And in the last few years as Field's, such ornaments were already all sold by this time in the holiday season.
That all reminds me: remember when you used to have to get classic Frangos at Field's by the second week in December or they would be all sold out? That doesn't seem to be the problem now.
Date: Saturday, December 12, 2009 7:34 pm CT
Posted by: Andrew P.The Magic of Macy's
Yes it truly is magic!
Terry Lundgren is a real magician. He made all the Marshall Field's customers disappear!
Date: Saturday, December 12, 2009 4:34 pm CT
Posted by: Lisa G.Thank you for that you do here.
Whenver I wear my button, I have to allow extra time for others to complement me and say how much they miss Marshall Field's.
Lisa G.
Naperille, ILDate: Friday, December 11, 2009 8:45 pm CT
Posted by: TerryI just saw the Macy's Christmas Special about Believing.
How can they put out such a show with any sense of honesty when they deep six Marshall Field's?
I believe Marshall Field's should come back and will come back!
Date: Friday, December 11, 2009 6:58 pm CT
Posted by: Sylvia, Morton GroveI was handed a flyer on State Street tonight that directed me to this page.
I MISS MARSHALL FIELD'S!
I won't shop at Macy's.
Date: Friday, December 11, 2009 6:27 am CT
Posted by: SusanRe Lundgren's professional demise. You and I may see it that way, but anyone who can call black "white" in perfect confidence, with his minions to confirm it, will never know when his own demise has occurred. My guess is, it has already, but the Dear Departed is still on his feet thanks to many self-interested helping hands. How long can the charade continue, we wonder?Date: Thursday, December 10, 2009 10:01 pm CT
Posted by: Eleanor J.Do you want to do an interesting experiment this holiday season??
Do what I did. I took one of my Marshall Field's large green shopping bags out of my closet, unfolded it, and took my grand daughter to North Michigan Avenue, to Oakbrook Mall on Saturday and on last Sunday to Old Orchard Mall.
I expected some remarks from fellow shoppers about my Marshall Field's bag along the way, but I was astounded at what I heard from shoppers at these three Chicago shopping areas, and from how many shoppers! In my first three minutes of being in Nordstrom in Oakbrook, I had seven people come up to me, asking me where I found a Marshall Field's store! Another example: "Is Marshall Field's open again?? Please tell me it's so!" "Field's is what I want for Christmas!" I then was beginning to lose count and gave my grand daughter a pad of paper from my purse and asked her to keep track on the number of comments generated by the Field's shopping bag.
Here are the results:
Oakbrook in a 90 minute period in Nordstrom, Lord & Taylor and Neiman's and Harry & David---108!
North Michigan Avenue near Macy's, American Girl, Neiman-Marcus and Saks in a two hour period: 178 remarks
Old Orchard: 231 remarks in a three hour period from 1-4:00.
I wish I had a tape recorder to record the comments I heard about people missing Marshall Field's. Chicagoans and visitors to Chicago want Marshall Field's and want it this Christmas!
If nothing else, carry your Marshall Field's shopping bag wherever you go in December---the grocery store, the drug store and on the commuter train. Chances are that you will be amazed.
Date: Thursday, December 10, 2009 9:00 pm CT
Posted by: B.S.Before Macy's dumbes down State Street, we always visited the Walnut Room in early December. The Christmas Season didn't begin until we had our dinner there.
We miss Marshall Field's, The Walnut Room and how the store used to have so much class.
Date: Thursday, December 10, 2009 7:36 pm CT
Posted by: Grant THere in Columbus, Ohio they just demolished the big downtown mall which used to have a Lazarus and a Marshall Field's. Macy's shut them both down.
Needless to say, we really wish we had Field's back and don't shop at Macy's.
Date: Thursday, December 10, 2009 4:00 pm CT
Posted by: PaulSo has anyone seen the Frangos that are made in Chicago by Cupid Candies? Can you tell them apart from the ones made elsewhere?
How can I choose to purchase the Chicago-made ones? I'm asking rhetorically because I actually wouldn't buy anything from Macy's, but I am skeptical that they will tell you where they are made.
Date: Thursday, December 10, 2009 12:34 pm CT
Posted by: AlanLord and Taylor is great store and all but you have to wonder if Terry Lundgren now secretly wishes that he had done things differently.
Lord and Taylor, which is big on the east coast, has practically no visibility here in the Chicago area at its remaining locations.
Just think if Terry Lundgren converted the Chicago Lord and Taylor locations to Macy's and left the Marshall Field's locations in the same malls alone. There would have been a few ripples and some sadness about Lord and Taylor's pull-out, but not much more than that in the Chicago area. After all, Lord and Taylor was in the Chicago market only since the 1970s. Outside of Chicago, hardly anyone would have cared.
At the same time, Field's and Macy's would both be at Water Tower, Woodfield, Oak Brook, Northbrook and Old Orchard. Maybe Field's on Michigan Ave could have been Macy's Chicago flagshipsince that Lord and Taylor became American Girl. Together with a Field's flagship on State, Lundgren could have had his cake and eatten too.
To top it all off, there would not have been all the bad publicty about Field's and the still-ongoing controversey and boycott of Macy's that still dogs Lundgren's decision to get rid of the other May company stores. If it was just those other stores that were converted to Macy's, there wouldn't be the heightened level of discontent that still persists.
Terry Lundgren's foolish ego overstepped its bounds and will be his professional demise.
Date: Thursday, December 10, 2009 12:04 pm CT
Posted by: PeteToday's Sun-Times and Chicago Tribune had something like a dozen pages of ads for Macy's and Bloomingdales. They must be desperate. The funny thing is that there was nothing enticing in the ads, especially the ones that are chopped up into something like 20 items.
The good news is that our struggling newspapers get a financial boost. The bad news is that I can't help but think that our press will be beholden to Macy's in terms of editorial favoritism.
Date: Thursday, December 10, 2009 7:05 am CT
Posted by: FFI miss Marshall Field's.
Just say "No" to Macy's!!!!!
Date: Wednesday, December 9, 2009 10:51 pm CT
Posted by: Joyce DI was reminded of a story in one of the Philly papers here from three years ago where they tried to explain what Frangos were. Martha Stewart. iPod Machines. Frango. That was supposed to be Macy's big national marketing brands. Did you ever see a national ad for Frangos? I sure didn't!
Terry Lundgren. He's a sack of spin.
Date: Wednesday, December 9, 2009 9:34 pm CT
Posted by: Mike MCramer of Mad Money fame (notariety?) really has a sense of humor. In a followup piece at the The Street/Mad Money, today:
NEW YORK (TheStreet) -- Every night on "Mad Money," Jim Cramer offers market commentary and general investment advice, and he makes calls on specific stocks, both of his own choosing and in response to viewer requests. He relies on his many years of experience and strong track record, and he takes full responsibility for his calls.Especially during 2007 and 2008, Macy's blamed their shortcomings in most every quarterly report on the weather. It became the running joke here.
. . . . . . . .
Macy's(M Quote): Cramer said Macy's was an example of a great company with a great CEO who blames himself, not the weather or commodity prices, for his company's earnings weaknesses.
On Wednesday, Macy's lost 12 cents, or 0.7%, to $16.27.
Here's the full bit...too bad that you can't reply unless you are a paid member.
http://www.thestreet.com/story/10642569/1/cramers-mad-money-follow-up-dec-9.htmlDate: Wednesday, December 9, 2009 5:34 pm CT
Posted by: Brian RI came across a post I liked from three years ago as I was checking my email today. It still resonates.
"Just to show you what a classy store Marshall Fields was. I lived in Chicago in the early 90's and I remember a full page ad in the Tribune from Marshall Fields regarding Bloomingdales arrival into Chicago. The picture had three little girls shopping and two had Marshall Fields green bags and one had the brown Bloomingdale bag. One Marshall Field girl said to the Blomingdale girl " DARLING I SEE YOU SHOPPED AT BLOOMINGDALES!" The bottom of the ad reads MARSHALL FIELDS WELCOMES BLOOMINGDALES TO CHICAGO! So much for gratitude, thanks MESSYS AND ALFANI!"
Date: Wednesday, December 9, 2009 5:23 pm CT
Posted by: LindaMy fourth year of Christmas shopping where I refuse to even step in a store with a Macy's or Bloomingdale's sign on it.Date: Wednesday, December 9, 2009 10:23 am CT
Posted by: Pat in CaliforniaWhenver I return to Chicago for a visit, I pass the State Street store and other great Field's locations like Oak Brook. I go by. I still feel like crying. Sometimes I do. But I do not go in the stores. In fact, because of what they did to Field's, I do not go in a Macy's store even here in California. Ever.Date: Wednesday, December 9, 2009 7:43 am CT
Posted by: SusanIt is not only love that is blind, but ego. Unless Lundgrinch suddenly develops an all-consuming interest in aeronautics or surfing, I don't expect to see him move on out. This is a waiting game in the control of someone with minions, who sees the planet as his own, and we can hope the place does not cave in before he does.
Yes, how dumb is it to turn your back on an easy fix: restore Field's on State to its real self.
To those sour folks who advise us to "get a life- it's over" -- I would repeat- some things are worth fighting for, if you have a life.
Regarding the employee Christmas party in 1961 referenced by gle.... I wish I had known about it! I worked there for 7 years starting that year and never a hint of such a thing came my way. I bet it was just for the behind-the-scenes people, perhaps the ones who did all the decorating, a Herculean task for sure, worthy of such a reward.
Sigh- Field's was not perfect for sure, but it came so close. Remember the now politically-incorrect slogan: "The Store of the Christmas Spirit"?
Date: Tuesday, December 8, 2009 7:51 pm CT
Posted by: Stephen GI am a faithful watcher of CNBC and Jim Cramer can either run "hot" or "cold" on Macy's depending on the week or month. Not too long (mabye a month or two) he was down-talking Macy's on CNBC as well as on an web site article. His current postive take on Macy's could very well be a good P.R. move between Macy's and CNBC. At the end of the day, I would not put my money on either the postive spin put on the Cramer/Lundgren togehterness day or the "My Macy's" program!Date: Tuesday, December 8, 2009 5:40 pm CT
Posted by: gleHere is Messy's press release for Believe Day from their official webiste www.macysinc.com
"Macy's Declares National Believe Day - Friday, December 11"
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1362605&highlight=
Needless, to say I believe Messy's should go away. At a neighborhood Christmas event over the weekend, I had to give out a Marshall Field's button almost every couple of steps. I got an earful of comments about how people still wish we had Field's in Chicago and how they don't even bother with Messy's any more.
Date: Tuesday, December 8, 2009 5:24 pm CT
Posted by: gleHere are some nice Marshall Field's memories from a December 7, 2009 "Tribune" letter to the editor (complete with comment blog if anyone wants to add more). This appeared on-line and in the print edition.
"City Holiday" by Mary Boldan
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/chi-1207vplettersbriefs0dec07,0,6881644.storyDate: Tuesday, December 8, 2009 5:19 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKayJim Cramer of Mad Money, CNBC, The Street and other outlets, spent a day with Macy's CEO, President and Chairman, Terry Lundgren as part of his series on investing in American instutions. Cramer gives glowing marks to Macy's, saying "My Macy's" "fixed" everything.
Of course, that's not the case here in Chicago. Cramer's story is referenced in several places, although to post responses to Cramer's own sites, you have to be a paying member. If you Google Cramer and Lundgren, you should be able to find several sites where you can comment. In the case of the "Blogging Stocks" page, all you have to do is give them an email address that is used only for purposes of verifying that a real person is posting and not a spam-bot.
http://www.bloggingstocks.com/2009/12/08/cramer-on-bloggingstocks-macys-has-undone-mistakes-of-the-past/1#c23786077Here's what I posted in response:It sounds like Mr. Cramer had a swell day with Macy's CEO, President and Chairman Terry Lundgren and Macy's celebrity designers at 34th St. But why didn't Mr. Cramer spend a day with Macy's customers across the USA? Are the customers really pleased with the changes at Macy's?
Here in Chicago, most shoppers will tell you that "My Macy's" has hardly fixed the failures of Mr. Lundgren's previous campaign to consolidate local stores under the Macy's brand. In fact, several months ago, a survey of 522 Chicago shoppers showed that even three years after the switch to Macy's, a whopping 78% still prefer Marshall Field's over Macy's and would like Marshall Field's restored in brand, service and style to the Chicagoland market. Yes, 78%! (MOE - 4.23%, CI = 95%, see http://www.fieldsfanschicago.org/#survey ) Marshall Field's and its connected brands were appraised at over $420 million in 2004. Given the overwhelming customer interest that still exists in the brand and institution "Marshall Field's" when attached to the State Street flagship in Chicago, should Mr. Lundgren be letting such a valuable asset go unused? One might consider this in light of today's Macy's market cap at $6.93 billion. How is everything "fixed" as Cramer claims?
In Chicago, many consider Terry Lundgren something akin to "The 'Lundgrinch' who stole Marshall Field's and Christmas." Just like Suess's Grinch, the whole beautiful tree that was Marshall Field's really didn't have to be stuffed up the chimney and taken away to fix one light in back. And when Mr. Cramer says everything is "fixed" at Macy's, he comes off as akin to the naive tot "Cindy Lou Who" who buys into the Grinch's story. Investors deserve more complete information than Mr. Cramer's puffy, fairy-tale visit with Mr. Lundgren. How about some hard numbers from Mr. Lundgren, numbers where he doesn't roll former Dayton's and Hudson's stores' numbers into the Marshall Field's numbers.
Macy's campaign this holiday season is entitled "Believe." Here in Chicago, most everyone believes Macy's has been no match for Marshall Field's and that it should be restored. Forget "My Macy's"-- I want "My Marshall Field's."
Date: Tuesday, December 8, 2009 4:22 pm CT
Posted by: JCCompare the green logo with the red star logo. Marshall Field's was pure class in every way. The article is from 2007, but really timeless. Macy's takeover is not going well...and never will!
http://forums.tannerworld.com/showthread.php?t=11632
Date: Tuesday, December 8, 2009 12:31 pm CT
Posted by: Joe W.I'm glad somebody is fighting the fight. We just go to see the tree/Walnut Room & remember the old days- and we NEVER buy anything.
Even the windows suck.
Date: Monday, December 7, 2009 6:39 pm CT
Posted by: C FisherHaving grown up in Chicago, and loving and shopping at Marshall Field's on State Street since the 1950's, I am wondering, WHY oh WHY would ANYONE decide to change the name of Marshall Field's to Macy's??? Isn't it obvious by now that it was a very POOR business decision?? What were they thinking?? Business is based upon NAME RECOGNITION! SHAME on whoever made the awful business decision to change the name of the much-loved Marshall Field's. Git yee back to business school and no frango mint bars for you until the name Marshall Fields is reinstated!!
It's not too late~ you can still redeem yourself the eyes of Chicagoans.
Date: Monday, December 7, 2009 6:15 pm CT
Posted by: M.L.I'm a Chicago native that returns at least six times a year, and always around the holidays. Each year when Macy's offers the "Letters to Santa" campaign, I submit my wish by simply stating, "Dear Santa: Please bring back Marshall Field's."Date: Sunday, December 6, 2009 10:53 pm CT
Posted by: JCWhat Marshall Field's is special to us...and why macy's will never do.
http://www.arcadiapublishing.com/news_article.html?id=526
Date: Sunday, December 6, 2009 10:04pm CT
Posted by: John D.To Laura and all other Arizona-based Field's Fans...
As if the thought of macy's taking over your Robinson's department stores and, of course, Marshall Field's, let me advise you of another macy connection in Arizona. There is the Terry J. Lundgren Center for Retailing on the campus of the University of Arizona in Tucson, named after Macy's Inc's CEO...President...and...Chairman Terry T. Lundgren to further his philosophies and wisdom.
You see, Terry Lundgren's college education is comprised solely in receiving his BA degree at Arizona. He donated funds for construction of the center and to perpetuate his name and himself for future generations.
Date: Sunday, December 6, 2009 4:23 pm CT
Posted by: A Field's FanHappy St Nicholas Day, patron saint of merchants.Date: Sunday, December 6, 2009 11:37 am CT
Posted by: Laura in AZI lived in Chicago for most of my life but moved to Phoenix about 10 years ago (really regretting that). Fields was my favorite store for many reasons and I was devastated when Macy's took over. I used to shop at Robinson's May here in Phoenix which was a sister store of Field's (not quite the same but the best we had here). When Macy's closed all the Robinson's here & tried to give me their credit card I told them I had no interest in their store andB cancelled the account. I have refused to shop at Macy's since. My husband thought I was a little nutty because I have been very adamant about my boycott. He was doing some research on Chicago for a speech he is writing and found your website. He was amazed that so many people feel the same as I do. I wish I were still there so I could actually do something about it.Date: Sunday, December 6, 2009 11:02 am CT
Posted by: gleAt this time of year I remember my first trip downtown to Marshall Field's to visit Santa at age 5. I remember the big, bright sparkling room, with Santa's cottage, Aunt Holly, Uncle Mistletoe and SANTA all there for the eager stream of children and parents. The long line didn't matter--there was no place we'd rather be, and we could enjoy looking at Santa and all the Christmas delights while we waited.
This year, I checked out the Messy's Santa Land on Friday after work. I found a long, claustrophobic, dark labyrinth that never seemed to end, and you couldn't even see Santa until you got there. There is music and animated characters on each side of you, but the passage is so narrow I'm surprised any group with lively kids and strollers can hardly fit, much less want to be stuck there for any amount of time. It makes me glad I was a kid when I was a kid.
Messy's with all it's overly-RED emphasis (even with a pale eco-green tree for contrast) continues to hold no interest for me. Even if Messy's was the top successful store it thinks it is, I would not be interested. Field's is Chicago, Field's represents quality merchandise and service--Field's is my store.
Date: Saturday, December 5, 2009 9:49 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKayThanks to all who helped make today's leaflet and button distribution possible, especially "gle".
There's been one aspect that's been the same the past several weeks of our holiday leaflet and button diistribution: people are more enthusiastic and active about bringing back Field's than even last year.
There were many stories from today, but the one that really strikes me at the moment is a vistor from Moscow who was very disappointed to find Macy's instead of Marshall Field's on State Street. He requested and wore one of our buttons.
According to tomorrow's Sunday Tribune, this Friday, December 11 is "Believe Day" at Macy's. Yes, we believe that Marshall Field's was much better and should come back. Even Virgina would agree.
Date: Saturday, December 5, 2009 8:29 pm CT
Posted by: James ZWhere has macy's been storing the Christmas Trumpets, in a coal-bin?? They are filthy! Two of the flagpoles have no trumpets at all. Apparently they broke & macy's didn't bother to replace them. Just another sad indication of their commitment to maintaining Marshall Field's traditions. On the bright side, maybe it's a sign of how strapped for cash they are! Like all of you, I won't set foot in macy's. Who'd want to. The building itself is dirty & deteriorating. So sad to see. But we'll win, Marshall Field's will be back!!!Date: Saturday, December 5, 2009 11:01 am CT
Posted by: Jim McKayBe sure to stop by under the State and Washington clock today where we will be passing out buttons and leaflets from 1-5 pm and probably before and after that window of time too. (Sometimes we go on a 15 minute break.)
The FieldsFansChicago.org Holiday Shopping Guide, originally compiled by S.B. and friends, is updated for 2009. While we can never replace Marshall Field's, our shopping guide is intended to list alternatives to help millions of Chicago shoppers get by during our boycott of Macy's until the inevitable return of Marshall Field's is realized on State Street.
Our 2009 can be viewed at
http://www.fieldsfanschicago.org/wheretoshop.html
In respect and admiration for that you do to help bring back Marshall Field's!
Jim
Date: Saturday, December 5, 2009 9:22 am CT
Posted by: JasonMMarshall Field's was a place where many went for fragrances. We don't have to go to Macy's for that. Starting today 12/5 Lord & Taylor has Clinque Bonus Week.Date: Saturday, December 5, 2009 9:13 am CT
Posted by: Richard RWhen my father passed away last year, I inherited what is left of a subscription to a nostalgia magazine called Reminisce. On page 38 of the December issue is a picture of Uncle Mistletoe. In the letter, he is referred to as Mr. Mistletoe, and purchased from Macy's department store in Chicago, 1950. As a life long Marshall Fields shopper, and part time employee, I find this disgusting. I am another shopper that has not, and will not spend one cent in that nationwide flea market called Macy'sDate: Saturday, December 5, 2009 6:48 am CT
Posted by: SusanOooh- the Waiting Room. Yes! A special place even in the 1960s- I did not have any reason to hang out there- but I went to buy stamps in the rear where the POST OFFICE was located for one's convenience. Just walking through the place gave a nice sense of satisfaction and comfort- my possible needs had been anticipated. When needing to change clothes for a posh evening right after work, I once went to one of the DRESSING ROOMS, a delicious mahogany and marble nook as I recall, feeling so thoughtfully obliged by the Founder. A favorite memory of a little indulgence provided by someone I never met.
Having a (sparkling clean) building, no less, come out to meet you and graciously accommodate your needs! What a concept!
Given the comments here, it strikes me that the Field's experience also spoke to children very powerfully, because their antennae are more alert to certain things than adults'. For example, when the cast iron balustrades were once again opened up I was delighted. I love those. A favorite childhood memory. In fact, Field's brought the child in all of us adults to the surface. No wonder we are in mourning- so much to have lost to the barbarians!
I refer to the State St store of course, but I lived in Oak Park then, and knew that local store, too- a little chip off the old block, not quite as luxe but still possessing the Field's charm. Briefly I worked in its Bakery and had access to very fresh glazed donuts right off the truck. Heaven!
Date: Friday, December 4, 2009 4:54 pm CT
Posted by: RickHere it is Christmas and I miss my Marshall Field's!!!
I don't think in my 55 years (I worked in retail in Milwaukee and out East for Federated) that I've ever been this disappointed over something so intangible. Marshall Field was truly my favorite store. It influenced me in my career in visual merchandising and was a becon of good taste for so many.
Date: Friday, December 4, 2009 3:51 pm CT
Posted by: Diane DWe really need Marshall Fields back - NOT MACY'S. Even though I am no longer living in Chicago, I still remember the wonderful memories I had at Christmas with Marshall Fields. Even though I moved to Alabama, I could still order online and get the very best quality merchandise and fully enjoy the highlight of my trip back to Chicago visiting my favorite store. There is no comparison between Macy's and Marshall Fields, not only the much superior merchandise but the quality service at Fields that we will never get at Macy's.Date: Thursday, December 3, 2009 9:32 pm CT
Posted by: drewThis analyst believes macy*mart stock is "in a tailspin"
http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2009/12/03/3-stocks-in-a-tailspin.aspx
Hopefully 2010 will be Triple Terry's demise and the Red Star board of directors will find three competent retailers to serve as President, Chairman and CEO after realizing the sheer stupidity of vesting so much power in one egomaniac. Perhaps rational minds will prevail and the regional department stores will be restored to GIVE SHOPPERS WHAT THEY WANT!
Date: Thursday, December 3, 2009 3:24 pm CT
Posted by: L. Grandbelated Happy Thanksgiving, everybody!
A thought entered my mind the other day, and I would like to just put it out there for your consideration.
Though I don't know much about the stock market, I was thinking about the fact that Macy's is a publicly traded company, and that the shareholders have certain rights, especially to speak and ask questions at shareholders' meetings. Here is my question:
Shouldn't the shareholders, as owners-in-part of the corporation, have a right to DEMAND sales figures for individual markets, and individual stores? It seems to me that if you are investing in something, helping to keep it afloat, that you should also share in the knowledge of exactly how profitable (or unprofitable) individual stores are?
I realize that corporations rarely, and WRONGLY, give decision-making power to a handful of people who can easily vote themselves bonuses, while leaving the shareholders in the dark about where the money is going exactly. It seems to me that Americans, in general, need to get back to basics and start demanding accountability. Otherwise, publicly traded companies are so in name only to an extent, and the handful of private boardroom attendees have any real knowledge or say in how the company is run. Am I oversimplifying this out of naivete, or is there some hope for shareholders to start demanding information?
Just wondering.
My sincerest best wishes for you all for a Happy Hanukkah and/or Merry Christmas.
L. Grand
Grand Rapids, MI
P.S. I've asked before and got no response, but I ask again: I have searched and searched on the internet for pictures of gifts wrapped in the various elegant gift wraps that Marshall Field's offered, but have been unsuccessful in finding any. I have wanted to make a slide show or post pictures of these oh-so-elegant gift wraps on my blog page, www.matchlessmarshallfields.blogspot.com If anyone has ANY photos of an elegantly wrapped Marshall Field's gift from ANY year, I would so appreciate your sending these photos to me at reality_quest@yahoo.com THANK YOU
Date: Thursday, December 3, 2009 2:48 pm CT
Posted by: Glen V HI grew up in Chicago and Christmas was always a time to take a trip downtown and see the windows at Fields and the visit the toy department. This continued to be an annual trip as my wife and I started to raise our own family. As so often happens I needed to relocated and we moved to the Detroit area. During the first few years we were able to continue the Christmas toy department visit at the downtown Hudson's. While it wasn't Fields it had the same kind of atmosphere. When the downtown store closed it put an end to that tradition. Eventually we got our Marshall Fields back when the local Hudson stores were renamed.
This Thanksgving weekend I was back in Chicago and thought it would be a great idea to recreate things past and visit the old downtown Field's now named Macy's. Surely the Macy's of Miracle on 34th Street would be a great place to take my grandkids. What a shock when I fould the toy department consisted of a small area amidst the clothing deprtment - obvioulsy Scrooge lives and Uncle Mistletoe has been retired.
By the way because we now live in Omaha boycotting Macy's is very easy as there isn't a store anywhere near here. However it would be very easy to boycott no matter where we lived, especially since Macy's in their infinite wisdom discontinued the Santa Bear tradition after so many years.
Thank you for your efforts and hopefully the next time I am in Chicago I will be abel to go to Marshall Fileds again.
Date: Thursday, December 3, 2009 11:37 am CT
Posted by: Stephen GHistorian Leslie Goddard is presenting the "History of Marshall Field & Co," at the Northbrook Public Library this evening 12/03 at 7pm. If you can attned it promises to be a great eveining!Date: Thursday, December 3, 2009 8:05 am CT
Posted by: Kurt GNow here's a real surprise:
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Macys-Inc-SameStore-Sales-bw-2576490356.html?x=0&.v=1
Sales even WORSE than predicted. What would the actual figures, NOT "excluding restructuring-related costs," reveal about the Red Star's performance? Why is Wall Street allowing the Red Star to factor in consolidation/reorganization/restructuring costs which can be easily "adjusted" to conceal the truth about the store's dismal performance month after month?
Date: Wednesday, December 2, 2009 12:12 pm CT
Posted by: Kurt GI miss Mrs. Gunderson at the Oak Park Marshall Field's who used to select the "cast iron" corduroys that I used to wear to St Angela's School in the fifties. I miss the huge lunch counter in the basement of the State Street Field's where I could get a quick piece of apple pie, made on the tenth floor by Field's cooks who made all sorts of irreplaceable foods. I miss the water fountains with the paper cups in the glass tubes that I would reach from the step at the water fountain near the escalators. I miss the sofas in the sitting area on the third or fourth floor where we would collapse in a pile of shopping bags and woolens on a cold Saturday. I miss the prime rib of beef in the English Room and the Chicken Pot Pie from the Walnut Room. I simply miss Marshall Fields & Company.Date: Wednesday, December 2, 2009 11:25 am CT
Posted by: Michael CassataIf Macy's had it their way they would buy Harrods' in London and rip the life out that venerable British department store as well. I am sure her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the 2nd would be quick to have her Royal warrants marking them as a purveyor to the Royal Household removed. No doubt Macy's would not bat an eye so long as they can open another cookie cutter store full of crap and no character their happy. Marshall Field's was a destination Macy's is not.
signed A loyal dyed in the wool Chicagoan. :)
Date: Tuesday, December 1, 2009, 2009 8:29 pm CT
Posted by: T.B.Having been in Retail Management for over thirty years, I am aware, unlike the CEO of Macy's, of the importance of Field's to Chicago. Eventually they are going to have to give up or moveDate: Tuesday, December 1, 2009, 2009 9:57 am CT
Posted by: gayleHi all,
I had another out-of-the-blue Field's moment last week. I was buying some books at Borders in Oak Brook, and the store was absolutely packed, with a checkout line snaking through the first few aisles. The cashiers were doing a wonderful job of moving the line along, and kept a steady friendly chatter going with the customers.
As I zoned out waiting for my turn, I was vaguely aware of two women toward the rear of the line commenting on a book they were considering. From their conversation, it was apparently a pictoral guide to Chicago. Suddenly I perked up when I heard one say "Oh, the Field's clock!" The other woman immediately said "you know that it's not Field's anymore, don't you?" The first woman said "It will always be Field's to me...I miss it so much!" The second woman agreed, and said "I don't shop there anymore." The first woman said "Ugh, I don't either!"
At that moment, it was my turn to check out, and I lost track of where the women were among all the customers. I was going to tell them about this website, but I didn't have a chance.
Once again, it was very clear to me that those of us on this site represent only the tiniest tip of a very large iceberg. Meanwhile, (to paraphrase another Field's Fan), Lungren keeps rearranging the deck chairs while the ship goes down.
gayle
Date: Monday, November 30, 2009 6:55 pm CT
Posted by: Z.The following article writes about Macy's credit card and how it can come with a minimum $2/month interest fee if you carry any balance. According to the story, a customer would have ended up paying an annual interest equal to 750% on a suit!
I guess that's The Magic of Macy's.
The real cost of store credit
http://www.app.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/200911250000/Business/911250356Date: Monday, November 30, 2009 6:29 pm CT
Posted by: Susan K. H.I was born and raised in Chicago as were my parents and grandparents. Field's was always the place where I was taken as a child and grew up with. I later moved to Wisconsin but continued coming back with my husband taking him to the Walnut Room at Christmas and enjoying all that Field's had offered my family. Now I live in Sarasota, FL where Macy's has done the same evil deed with our beloved Burdine's "The Florida Store" and it now looks like a glorified Goldblatts. The only reason I go into Macy's, once a year, is to get my "Frango Fix" as I fell in love with the chocolate mint delicacy years ago. The clerk at Macy's asked if I wanted to open an account at Macy's and I told her "No" as I was unable to use my old Field's Charga-Plate and would never open a Macy's account as they could NEVER compare with Field's. She looked at me with Shock and other clerks also looked at me with disdain. How hallarious it was to them that someone in Florida should be defending their Marshall Field's FOREVER. SORRY FOR BEING ADDICTED TO FRANGOS AND FIELDS IN SARASOTA.
Susan
Date: Sunday, November 29, 2009 7:52 pm CT
Posted by: John D.Woodfield Mall...and consequently the Village of Schaumburg, Illinois, the home of Woodfield is hurting financially in good part due to the "macy-ification" of the former Marshall Field & Company department store.
On Black Friday, I saw a Fox News Channel broadcast of a five-minute news report by Chicago-based Steve Brown on how Schaumburg, Illinois is in bad financial condition and desparately needs more retail sales tax revenue. Apparently, the Village of Schaumburg does not have a property tax for its revenue, because the retail sales tax collected from Woodfield Mall and neighboring business has been high enough for decades to take care of the village's needs to operate. The Village Manager was interviewed and stated how dire the situation is presently. He added that the retail tax revenue has dipped dramatically and they will need to start taxing residents on their property values.
One of my neighbors told me that when he worked at Field's while in college that the Field's store at Woodfield was a primary destination point for visitors flying into and out of neighboring O'Hare Airport. They would manage to stop by and shop. Airline flight attendants would buy large apparel wardrobes on stop-overs too. He reports that he has heard from friends that people appearing as tourists or business visitors are staying away...because they already have a macy's back home. Why make the effort to go out of their way for a store that is not unique and Chicago!
Be sure to read James W's comments following the condensed article in the linked article. He summarizes our feelings precisely. Feel free to comment too.
http://www.arlingtoncardinal.com/2009/11/28/foxnews-live-from-woodfield-in-schaumburg-village-debt-blamed-on-sales-tax-slump/comment-page-1/#comment-1139Date: Saturday, November 28, 2009 9:34 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKayThanks to all who helped make leaflet and button distribution a huge success today. About 1,000 leaflets were passed out and we have temporarily run out of buttons, although we expect more in time for next Saturday.
If you wish to help in leaflet and button distribution on Saturday, December 5 and Saturday December 19, please email supportATfieldsfanschicagoDOTorg
We also plan to mix things up a little and leaflet on Friday afternoon, December 11 and Sunday afternoon, December 13, as well as other dates. Email us if you wish to assist.
In admiration and respect for all that you do to help bring back Marshall Field's.
Date: Saturday, November 28, 2009 4:56 pm CT
Posted by: Natalie S.am a die-hard Chicagoan and love everything Chicago. I will never shop at any stores affiliated with that cesspool city on the east coast. Bring me back my Marshall Field's!!!Date: Saturday, November 28, 2009 1:08 pm CT
Posted by: DavidMerry Christmas Everyone. Another year without fields is a sad statment. I am still avoiding Macy's, and still encourage others to do the same.
Ebay has a veritable potpourri of Fields Products on its site, check it out, you can get alot of holiday shopping done, and when it shows up at your door, it will be as close to getting something in the mail from Marshall Fields as we can get right now.
Peace and Prosperity for the new year.
Date: Saturday, November 28, 2009 11:07 am CT
Posted by: GRA58Did anyone catch Channel 5's 5:00 PM news on Black Friday? As they were doing the obligatory helicopter fly over Woodfield Mall, the reporter helpfully pointed out that the only place there was parking available was around the Macy's store. He specifically said the lot around Nordstom was jammed. I just laughed out loud. Will these clowns at Macy's ever get a clue?Date: Saturday, November 28, 2009 7:10 am CT
Posted by: SusanHere is something bittersweet- A trip on one of the art deco elevators that I loved--- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y02kGYH-QEo
The video was taken by an out-of-town elevator connoisseur, a different point of view!
It touched me to see the bronze Field's sheaf-of-wheat plaque in the floor, a subliminal but beloved detail I would not have recalled on my own. At that point the video-ist observed that it was too bad the store was no longer Marshall Field's. I found myself feeling disturbed about something- finally realized that I was seeing even in that little bit, evidence of not caring...the walls dirty around the buttons, the color of the lettering on the brass wall plaques worn off and the brass tarnished where it was not constantly polished by poking fingers.....what appeared to be dirty and chipped floor tiles... Even the "dings" for each floor were not all working inside the elevator. A small point, but we know that details matter.... Definitely not the Field's way, at least when it was where I 'lived' (alas, in the 60s). Certainly the lack of maintenance where the customer focuses upon and purposely touches the building fabric itself- tooooo bad.
Another video showed what appeared to be reworked elevators with bits of the original decorations but sadly bland (indifferent/cheap) replacement parts. No marble or aluminum. Another gives us a ride on the old escalator! I racked up many miles on those.
Yes, time takes its toll and things must be kept reasonably up to date and certainly functional, but I hate to see that deco part of Field's allowed to crumble away.
Sigh. I think in the back of all our minds is that: Field's was a place where the brass was polished, the floors clean, and everything somehow was brightness and optimism. It wasn't just the merch or the Tiffany or the Christmas parts. All the right things came together in that place, drawing us like flies to honey. Pressing your fingers onto a visibly dirty elevator keypad was not part of the Field's experience.
Date: Friday, November 27, 2009 11:22 pm CT
Posted by: Joseph From CAHello Fields Fans!
Been a long time since my last post, but just wanted to share some observations. I'm currently traveling in the southeast US, and Macy's is just as dull and uninspiring here as it is at home in California, and I'm sure in the rest of the US. At one particular Macy's (Brookwood Village in Birmingham, Alabama), I overheard a customer tell a sales associate that she had to go two departments over to have an associate ring up her purchase because there was no help in the department she was originially in. Yeah, that's great customer service. Also on the day before Thanksgiving, I was at Riverchase Galleria in Hoover, Alabama and compared foot traffic between Macy's and Belk, and Belk was the winner hands down. I saw so many more shoppers in the mall carrying Belk bags than I did Macy's.
I'm currently in Atlanta, and at least here, shoppers have some variety. For middle market consumers, there's Belk and Dillard's (I really like Belk), and for upscale shoppers there's Nordstrom, Saks, and Neiman Marcus. Granted, if we still had Field's, we'd have one stop shopping for both the middle market and upscale consumer. Spend wisely this holiday season, fellow Field's fans. Make Macy's pay dearly for taking our beloved Field's (not to mention many other stores) away from us.
Date: Friday, November 27, 2009 11:10 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKayThanks to all who helped make leaflet and button distribution on State Street a success today, especially "gle" and very especially Carol.
In response to the Chicago Tribune's "Walnut Room" article at http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-black-friday-shopping-nov27,0,2159627,comment-display-all.story, I wrote:
Here's the FieldsFansChicago.org barometer from State and Washington St under the Great Marshall Field's clock.
Every year we pass out leaflets about Marshall Field's and how for so many reasons--from shopping to culture and tourism and history-- it is important to bring back Marshall Field's.
A YEAR AGO, on Black Friday 2008, we averaged about 165 leaflets distributed an hour. In 2008, we were down from 2007, although we don't have stats off hand from Black Friday 2007. TODAY, Black Friday 2009, we averaged about 190 leaflets distributed in an hour, but the crowds seemed smaller.
Given the [Tribune reporting a two-hour] wait for the Walnut Room, the people who would tell me that they didn't like to shop Macy's--but they made an exception for Marshall Field's standards Frangos--and well, the answer seems obvious: Chicago shoppers want Marshall Field's and not Macy's back even more than last year. Not surprising since our anonymous survey of 522 State Street and Michigan Avenue shoppers found that 78% wanted Marshall Field's to return, while only 12%-13% were happy with Macy's. (MOE = +/-4.23% and CI= 95%) See http://www.fieldsfanschicago.org/#survey for details.
BTW: The wait for the Walnut Room in 2005, the last year of Marshall Field's, was about 4-5 hours, at least.
Date: Friday, November 27, 2009 7:34 pm CT
Posted by: Paul PTerry Lundgren says things are getting better in this video released today at CNN Money:
http://money.cnn.com/video/news/2009/11/27/n_macyceo_quest.cnnmoney/
Tribune blog-style article on "Walnut Room Barometer" at:
Date: Friday, November 27, 2009 6:56 pm CT
Posted by: MwI thought one big deal about having Macy's everywhere across the nation was that they could streamline shopping bags. Today, I saw at least four designs of Macy's bags that were all the same size. One was the usual red star on white. Another was a white star on red. A third was a high gloss Macy's and Sailor Mickey Mouse bag. And then there was a "come together" for charity dinner bag. Why can't they find funds for a Marshall Field's bag? Because it's not about bags but the CEO's ego.Date: Friday, November 27, 2009 10:39 am CT
Posted by: anonynmousSad about what happened to fields. We were sad in 2001 when they took away Hudson's. Keep working hard to get your Flagship store back. If it closes, do everything to save the building. Sadly, the Hudson's flagship store in Detroit which was the tallest and second largest store in the world,was imploded, and became a 50 foot pile of rubble. Keep fighting. You can do it!Date: Thursday, November 26, 2009 10:08 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKayI think the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade is a great tradition...just not a Chicago tradition. Before this all happened with Macy's killing off Marshall Field's, I used to watch it most years. Macy's has it's place--just not at 111 N. State Street in Chicago.
What I didn't like was the TV coverage of the Chicago Thanksgiving parade with "Macy's" in the background. Macy's focuses it's sponsorship on their parade in NYC. They don't deserve attention here.
Date: Thursday, November 26, 2009 3:05 pm CT
Posted by: Michael RussellTo the dismay of you all, I did watch the Macy's parade while cooking Thanksgiving dinner this morning. I guess Macy's has forgotten even their traditions. The parade was totally lacking Christmas. It was more of a "Pop Music Awards Show" than a Christmas Parade. There was very little Christmas music. There was a revolting song that had some lyrics about God and a beer!!!!!! Most of the floats were "commercial floats" that had NOTHING to do with Christmas. I guess "Yes Virginia, there is no Santa Claus at Macy's, just commercial corporate greed.".Date: Thursday, November 26, 2009 2:58 pm CT
Posted by: David MThe big red star -- everytime I see it, it resembles to me, a devoted Marshall Field's customer like a Communist takeover of our beloved brand in the Midwest.
Why does Federated think that they can simply takeover a trusted Midwest name, slap their skin on it and hope that it grows?
Target was a great example of how to fund and support the regional chain because it understood the psychology of the Brand and fostered it. Target is colossal today. Where's Federated?
This too will pass. Macy's is hurt by the double whammy of recession and by 75% of Midwesterners not shopping our Store.
Step out of the way of the brand and support it like Target and watch the rewards come. If it won't do that, then spin it off to a private capital management firm and let them run it.
Well, the Berlin Wall fell and freedom came back to East Germany. I am hoping within the next few years that Macy's dreaded Red Star will fall too. Long live Marshall Fields.
Date: Thursday, November 26, 2009 9:51 am CT
Posted by: DMGWhy cannot Macys learn from Targets example?Date: Thursday, November 26, 2009
Posted by: FieldsFansChicago.orgHappy Thanksgiving!
Date: Wednesday, November 25, >009 10:58 pm CT
Posted by: RichI will say it once more -- How I MISS Field's
It used to be SO easy and enjoyable --
I would spend One whole Saturday after Thanksgiving in Field's with all the incredible possible merchandise and different options for Fantastic and desirable gifts -- and I would have the best service by knowledgeable Field associates -- I would be able to break and enjoy a delicious meal-- and I would get those beautiful Field boxes to hold everything -- to think that i had them wrapped--- and the incredible strong beautiful Christmas bags-- which were desired and wanted by several family members-- --Everything in one store in one day ! and Christmas shopping would be complete!
and now --
I do a lot online but you cant hold it and feel it -- Nordstrom Saks Carsons Penneys even Marshalls and Target -- smaller stores -- williams sonoma-- all those places and Field's would have somehow had it all!
What an amaising place it truly was!!!
like they said ---
" There's no place like Field's "
How Very True!
Happy Thanksgiving to you all - and to the once and future Marshall Field's!
Date: Wednesday, November 25, >009 7:21 pm CT
Posted by: Daniel KoudelkaI will always have fond memorys of my childhood visiting Marshall Fields as my father and i believe his father both worked there we use to ride the train downtown and spend hours shopping there I wonder if anyone still has there archives photos , employee records ect they told me they had a whole department full of records ect.... if anyone knows please let me know
Thanks Dan
Date: Tuesday, November 24, 2009 5:07 pm CT
Posted by: gleI am thankful for years of wonderful memories at Marshall Field's.
I am thankful for all the wonderful hardworking people who continue to support this cause.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING--FIELD'S FANS!
Date: Tuesday, November 24, 2009 2:27 pm CT
Posted by: DeloresThank you for the buttons. I gave one to a friend of mine who misses Marshall Field's, too. We wear them with pride.Date: Tuesday, November 24, 2009 10:51 am CT
Posted by: gayleHas anyone seen the new Kohl's Christmas commercial? A woman steps out of a store, and there's a clock in the foreground on a post that looks quite a bit like the Field's clock. It might be just an odd coincidence, but I wonder if Kohl's is reaching out to Field's fans in a somewhat subliminal manner? Unfortunately, there's a lot of red in the commercial too. =P
I find I've been shopping at Kohl's a lot more lately, especially for casual clothes. They're not high-end of course, but they're unpretentious and customer-focused, in stark contrast to Macy's....
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
gayle
Date: Monday, November 23, 2009 8:34 pm CT
Posted by: PeteIn my book, the difference between Macy's and Marshall Field's is like the difference between particle board bookcases and authentic walnut. Macy's is just a poor imitation.Date: Sunday, November 22, 2009 6:57 pm CT
Posted by: mds in mt. prospectAfter reading Gail's 11/15 post, I thought about it for a while and would have to agree. While the bulk of my shopping would be done at Marshall Field's if it were around, I might actually look at and even purchase some items from Macy's. However, with the way that they've handled this debacle and the way that they continue to thumb their noses at Chicago, I cringe whenever I see a Macy's ad on T.V. or in the newspaper. I would no sooner patronize Macy's than I would kiss an angry badger. I just wish I could understand the ego it takes to knowingly deprive so many people of something that is so clearly missed. Recently at work, one of my colleagues that had lived in Connecticut for a good number of years said that she doesn't fully understand my whole "Marshall Field's thing", but admitted that she does miss Macy's. She quickly followed up with, "The stuff you see now - that's not Macy's - at least not the Macy's I used to know!" She went on to say that it has gone so far downhill that there is really no reason left to go there. She now shops at Kohl's because they have a richer selection. As a side note, this colleague has never posted to this blog and most likely never will. But I'll tell you this - just because she doesn't post here doesn't mean that she likes Macy's. Macy's lost a ton of former Field's clients for sure - but they've undoubtedly lost a slew of "former Macy's" customers as well. Lundgren sure is showing us all who's boss!Date: Sunday, November 22, 2009 1:31 pm CT
Posted by: S.B.With the holiday season starting out-of-towners will be coming into Chicago for shopping. They may consider going to Macy's on State Street... just to see the stores.
Let's all put a review on www.yelp.com to let them know what we think.
Date: Saturday, November 21, 2009 10:55 pm CT
Posted by: Findley JohnsonThe concept about wanting Fields back is wonderful...but it would take a company with a lot of money to bring back Fields in all its glory. If Federated, now Macy's were to bring back the Fields name, it probably would be just the name. I am afraid that what you see on State Street would then just be a Marshall Field's, but probably just the name, you would see the same store that there is today, but without the Macy's name.Date: Saturday, November 21, 2009 10:00 pm CT
Posted by: Kathy SauersI completely understand your frustrations. Fort Wayne Indiana had a wonderful Marshall Fields store that left in the 90's. The only stores we have now are Macy's, and I hate that store. It is nothing more than a high priced KMART. We also have a Von Mauer, but who can afford that store? I could always go to Marshall Fields and find exactly what I was looking for, plus they always had great sales. The sales associates were always extrememly helpful and kind. Fort Wayne would like to see Marshall Fileds return as well. Their building still remains unoccupied at Glenbrook Square. JEERS to Macy's!!Date: Saturday, November 21, 2009 10:27 pm CT
Posted by: gwhttp://data.cnbc.com/quotes/bont
It is interesting to note that Carson's parent company stock, Bon-Ton Stores(BONT), is trading at a 52 week high. It is up 1533% from its year to date lows. It is almost the same value per share as a Macy's share. There are several articles again that reiterate the vitality of regional department stores. Guess "My Macy's" program isn't cutting it since their stock is just trending lower these days.
I for one am glad to see Carson's doing much better. There website has improved and their prices and quality beat Macy's 90% or more of the time. If Carson's had only kept their State Street store I think Macy's would be dying even more in downtown Chicago. Does anyone wonder why Block 37 across from Macy's has gone into bankruptcy, of course not, it is not an attraction for other retailers to be across from a ho-hum lower end department store. I cut through Macy's all the time and wonder how they pay the electric bill to keep the lights on in this place. Carson's will be on my short list for holiday shopping again this year.
If they would only bring back the luster of Marshall Field's and its State Street store I believe Block 37 would fill up in less than a year with a great mix of stores. I for one would love to see Carson's return to their old site, now named Sullivan Center. The place remains vacant because again no retailers are attracted to State Street because it's anchored by a Macy's.
Happy Black Friday shopping at everywhere but Macy's again this year folks. I'll be watching the McDonald's parade on State Street this year and not that other parade in NYC!
gw
Date: Friday, November 20, 2009 10:02 pm CT
Posted by: S.B.Last Christmas at Marshall Field's video... from CBS Show.http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=1044052n&tag=related;photovideoWhy can't we just have Marshall Field's State Street back?Date: Friday, November 20, 2009 9:14 am CT
Posted by: CyndyI live in San Francisco, but haven't spent a penny at the Macy's here since Lungren decided to decimate the regional department store.Date: Friday, November 20, 2009 6:06 am CT
Posted by: SusanIt seems to me that there is a real negative rival-based power struggle here beneath all the grand positive talk about a national brand. Maybe the first store desired will be the last store forfeited -- our Treasure on State St. No matter how crummy the place gets, no matter how much of a financial drag, it will remain under the detested Macy's banner JUST BECAUSE. I think Lundgren would rather shop at Walmart than give up the Marshall Field head on his platter.
Think how different things would be for Macy's if they had respected the Field's name and traditions. For that matter, all the other local names and traditions. How 'local' can you get? Doesn't make much sense to wipe us all out and then make the pretense of sensitively customizing the merch to local demand like it was a Bright Idea.
A great entrepreneur would fix all that...
Date: Thursday, November 19, 2009 6:28 pm CT
Posted by: Jimmt GimbelsDon't you just cringe when you see a Macy's ad that says, "See our famous State Street holiday windows."?
My friends tell me they are really not worth the trip to see. Bring back Field's and their super creative display team.
Date: Thursday, November 19, 2009 5:25 pm CT
Posted by: MDSI can't stand Macys phony lines and hope Macy's goes under!!
It can't survive on it's total lack of credibility.
Sorry Macys employees--but the best of you can maybe elligible to work at a new store that would be much better-- THE NEW MARSHALL FIELDS !!!!!
Date: Thursday, November 19, 2009 3:11 pm CT
Posted by: drewAnother link about the Red Star holiday windows in downtown Pittsburgh:
http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/pittsburgh/s_653890.html
Enjoy!
Date: Thursday, November 19, 2009 3:05 pm CT
Posted by: drewHere's a link about the "exciting" holiday window displays at the downtown Pittsburgh Red Star:
http://www.post-gazette.com/multimedia/?videoID=102592
No doubt crowds of people will be awestruck by these wonderful animations!
Date: Thursday, November 19, 2009 1:42 pm CT
Posted by: Katharine C.This organization is wonderful and I hope very much that I will be free next year to attend the protest rally in September--but hopefully it won't be necessary and we'll have Field's back.Date: Wednesday, November 18, 2009 5:33 pm CT
Posted by: JMYThank you for the I Want My Marshall Field's buttons. I am wearing one on my coat every day. I have not purchased anything at Macy's since theyreplaced Field's and will not shop at any stores until they convert all Chicago stores back to Marshall Field's, I hope they sell and move out of the Chicago market and sell the stores to someone that appreciates the Field's brand.Date: Wednesday, November 18, 2009 5:32 pm CT
Posted by: A State Street spectatorjust walked down State Street, and can relate to the article in Crain's about construction. State Street has become construction street--Block 37 construction, former Carson's building construction, construction everywhere--with a few poor little shops begging for attention in between. I fondly remember the wonderful shoppers paradise that WAS State Street, especially our treasured Marshall Field's. I remember how frustrating it was for a short person like me to get photos of the wonderful Field's windows. I can finally get near the windows at the store--nobody else is that interested. There is no exasperating line for the Walnut Room, no long lines to buy merchandise, and really no merchandise I want to buy. It would so benefit Chicago to simply return Marshall Field's--no construction would even be necessary, just a little touch-up job like polishing the plaques again. It makes so much sense.Date: Tuesday, November 17, 2009 7:05 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKayThis is in response to Stephen G and "gle".
Given the tough times newspapers are having, one might also consider the influence Macy's has in terms of their survival.
A couple of years ago, I was quoted $20,000 for a full-page, black and white ad in the week day Chicago Tribune and $9,000 for a similar full page in the Chicago Sun-Times.
Now to be sure, Macy's gets a discount for buying so many ads, but could also be paying more for the full color --or at least red -- that often appears.
I have no idea exactly how much a paper like the Chicago Tribune makes annually from Macy's advertising, but based on my previous inquiry, I would say it's easily over $1 million. Then consider other Tribune Company newspapers, web sites and TV stations and you are talking millions of dollars in revenue from Macy's.
I guess you could say that when the Tribune ran Field's ads, it was printing the green; ever since it became Macy's, it's been red ink all over!
Date: Tuesday, November 17, 2009 7:01 pm CT
Posted by: Stephen G.Definitely have to agree about the Tribune being a Macy's catalog.
In today's paper (Nov. 17), the first section had a total of 28 pages. 13 of them had 3/4's of the page covered with a Macy add, one page was 1/4 full of Macy add and the last page was a FULL PAGE Macy add. If I am remembering correctly, Marshall Fields would have maybe one full page add for their 13 Hour sale and a few other special events. They did not need to publish a catalog in the daily paper to get customers!
Date: Tuesday, November 17, 2009 5:48 pm CT
Posted by: gleAn article in today's "Tribune" discusses Christmas store windows, including Messy's. There is also a comment blog.
"Holiday windows from 'SNL' to childs play" November 17, 2009 by Samantha Critchell, AP Fashion Writer
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/wire/chi-ap-us-fea-fashion-holid,0,4417796.story
Date: Tuesday, November 17, 2009 5:34 pm CT
Posted by: gleAn editorial letter in today's "Tribune" makes an interesting point about too many people thinking a paper is to tell them when there is a Messy's sale. With papers inudated by Messy's ads as they are, I think it might be difficult to get any other idea. However, do I love newspapers as does the author of the letter. I personally would like to see less of the eyesore Messy's ads and more on significant news (not to mention a return of Marshall Field's).
"In praise of papers"
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/chi-1117vplettersbriefs6nov17,0,2940328.storyDate: Tuesday, November 17, 2009 3:29 pm CT
Posted by: SonjaI have only been in Marshall Fields once since it changed to Macy's. And that took a great deal of strength to do. It's funny that you can hold something so simple as a store to highest esteem. But that's what Marshall Field's is. It's more than just a landmark or a tradition or memories.
My grandmother worked there when my mom was young. We always shopped there and made a trip every winter to Christmas shop and stock up on our supply of Frangos. I refused to have my son's first Santa visit with any other Santa than the Field's Santa.
Over the past few years, I've been sadden by the changes made to my favorite Chicago places to visit on my now yearly trip to the city. Marshall Field's is gone. Macy's has ruined it and I won't go back until it's brought back to the store of my childhood. The Berghoff, well I don't know what the new owners are thinking there but it frankly bites. And the Palmer House, it's still the only hotel I will stay at in Chicago, but I hate the new look of the lobby and the bar that has been added. At least the Italian Villiage is still the same.
I hope and watch for news that Marshall Field's will be restored to its previously glory and I want to thank everyone for all their hard work over the past years!! From someone in downstate Illinois that feels your pain! I would be protesting with you if I could! Bring back Field's!!
Date: Monday, November 16, 2009 2:36 pm CT
Posted by: SFAWe held out hope that at the last minute some miracle -- as in Macy's actually listening to their customers -- would stop this terrible rumor we heard that Macyb�s was moving in. Such a disappointment that this happened! I love the site you all have set up and wish I would have found it three years ago!Date: Sunday, November 15, 2009 1:43 pm CT
Posted by: GailAnother Christmas season has arrived. Another season in which Macy's/Bloomingdale's will not receive a dime of my money.
These days I order candy from Fannie May, even though See's is the dominant player where I live. I love the Chicago skyline boxes that Fannie May sells. When I buy china, flatware, crystal, or glassware, it comes from Gump's, Crate & Barrel, Williams-Sonoma or Pottery Barn. My clothes come from Nordstrom, Chico's, Saks, Coldwater Creek and Needless Mark-up.
I've stopped wearing the last pair of shoes I bought at Field's. I want to preserve them. My more recent shoe purchases have been from Nordstrom, which is where I get my cosmetics now too. My lingerie is ordered from a British company called Bravissimo. And I've finally been able to get the cheese I used to get from Field's at Whole Foods.
For Christmas decorations, I buy a little from Pottery Barn and a little from Crate & Barrel. And, okay, I'll admit it: A little came from WalMart last year. A lady has to save money somewhere.
And for the oddball purchases that make life fun--like the 16th century Spanish chair that arrived yesterday--there's always Ebay.
A few years ago, more than half of my purchases would have come from Field's. And a little bit would have come from Macy's or the recently Macified Robinson's/May. All that is in the past.
Just remember, Mr. Lundgren: When your cash register doesn't ring ..., it's me.
Date: Sunday, November 15, 2009 11:17 am CT
Posted by: A State Street spectatorHaving to work downtown on Saturday I was able to check out State Street about 11:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. There didn't seem to be much action at any time, just a trickle of pedestrians with a few looking at windows and some windows having no spectators. A traveling puppet show that is very popular in Chicago got all the attention at State and Randolph at 5:30 p.m. Spectators were globing around it so you couldn't even get by on the sidewalk. They had their backs to the Messy's windows while watching the puppets. Inside the store was also a trickle. There was more foot traffic than during non-holiday season, but no lines for anything. The Walnut Room had some empty tables (with the pale-silvery green eco-friendly tree), and only a few people waiting. The 7th floor information area still has Marshall Field's T-shirts (where you can hardly find them). And there was no wait at the tables to write Virginia letters to Santa.Date: Friday, November 13, 2009 9:19 pm CT
Posted by: drewHow "exciting" the creative staff at the Red Star is using the "Yes, Virginia..." theme this year--mailboxes, meters and all! How clever, how unique, how original, how special--how 2007 and 2008! No sense wasting all the mailboxes and other props when Mr Lunkhead can get a few more years out of them.
Here's a link to the 2009 Christmas ad now being shown on television:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PkRP7bHBKBI
While the ad is rather unimaginative and uninspired, please note WHICH "outstanding" macy*s store is featured. Of course, the Herald Square main entrance is prominently displayed. Further proof that macy*s is all about New York as those wacky folks at macy*s "believe" shoppers elsewhere should just forget THEIR holiday memories and be overjoyed by "the magic of macy*s." Since macy's has been "part of your life for 150 years," please eradicate any thoughts of Marshall Field's, Hudson's, May Company, Broadway, Foley's, Kaufmann's, Lazarus, Filene's, Rich's, Burdines, Hecht's, Strawbridge and Clothier...everyone's holiday memories are NOW about Herald Square in New York. Is this part of Mr Lunkhead's diabolical plot to "re-educate" customers?
Date: Friday, November 13, 2009 11:59 am CT
Posted by: PeteYou know, if Marshall Field's was brought back to State Street, it would diffuse much of the controversey and TON of bad publicity that Macy's is garnering across the nation. While there are more than a few unhappy Kauffmans and Filene's and Foleys fans, the whole sum of all the disgruntled MayCo brand fans (outside of Marshall Field's) doesn't even come close to number of that of the number of disgruntled Marshall Field's fans.
Lundgren should bring back Field's or sell it to some one who will. That would take the heat off of the rest of Macy's and him.
Date: Thursday, November 12, 2009 9:05 pm CT
Posted by: Eric BI have created a multimedia presentation titled, "Marshall Field's Christmas Memories." Here is a direct link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=juJTB7fxT6s -- Running time 5:11
Be sure to hit the HQ (High Quality) button, maximize the image to full screen size, turn on your speakers, and enjoy! And yes, there is a promo for fieldsfanschicago.org at the end!
Please be sure to forward this link to your friends.
-- Eric
Date: Thursday, November 12, 2009 2:31 pm CT
Posted by: LuannOne of the best features of capitalism is the freedom to innovate, and Marshall Field is a microcosm of the creative, independent, American spirit. The Macy's conglomerate is emblematic of the sacrifice of excellence that occurs when entities become oversized, bureaucratic,and out of touch with the needs and wants of individual locales. Even though I've posted infrequently, I yet pine for a return of Marshall Field on State (and Carson's, I might add!). I still offer prayer on behalf of Jim McKay, and his co-laborers who expend their resources and time to bring Field's back to Chicago. You are much appreciated.Date: Thursday, November 12, 2009 10:55 am CT
Posted by: A EarlCan I just say that I think the Christmas windows at the former Marshall Field's State Street store are once again, ABSOLUTELY BIZARRE. The theme of this year is letters to santa claus and how they get to the north pole. Each window is just a boring imitation of the other one. One window shows the letters spinning around in a circle, one has the letters going up and down, the next has them going sideways, etc. There are demonic, cat-like, silver, robotic "elves" in some of the windows. Then there is another version of elf in other windows that doesn't look anything like and elf. They look like characters from Strawberry Shortcake cartoons.
The decorations inside the store are mediocre. I will have to say that I thought the tree in the Walnut Room looks good. However, it is just plastered with ornaments and looks like it is about ready to collapse. The base of the tree is plain and ugly with the word "believe" projected on all 4 sides.
I also noticed white duct tape covering up a big section of missing tiles on the first floor, near men's fragrances. Macy's must have used white duct tape in keeping with the holiday spirit.
Date: Wednesday, November 11, 2009 9:51 pm CT
Posted by: Kurt GerhardtWhen I was in Chicago one afternoon last May, I stood across State Street from the Field's store with its dreary black "Macy's" awnings and, after a full ten minutes, noticed that precisely two people had exited the doors nearest Washington Street. If that is the customer volume that Mr. Lundgren is satisfied with, it is obvious why the oversized Macy's chain is in such dismal shape. Maintaining the heating and air-conditioning surely costs more than the revenues pulled from their handfuls of shoppers. Despite his snazzy duds and snappy grooming, Mr. Lundgren is an example of the dying art of American retailing, suede show variety. Convinced that Americans don't want the showmanship of a Mohammed al-Fayed, owner of London's Harrod's, Lundgren gives us the contemporary equivalent of Weiboldt's because contemporary Americans wouldn't know class if it bit them.
The sales figures at the State Street Store will continue to dwindle and the shareholders of Federated Department Stores will continue to be clueless about the bizarre behavior of Chicagoans who dare to continue to ignore the "wonders" of New York's once great Macy's. Replication of an icon is not possible, Mr. Ludgren, certainly not in hundreds of iterations. All you've ever succeeded in is conning the shareholders of Federated, not difficult since that company has presided over the deaths of America's finest retailers. Bullock's is dead, I. Magnin is dead.
In the end, Mr Lundgren, I feel you've bet wrong and Americans do know class, and good taste even if you don't and never will.
Date: Wednesday, November 11, 2009 5:45 pm CT
Posted by: gleFrom today's "Sun-Times"
http://www.suntimes.com/business/earnings/1877606,earnings-macys-111109.article
Date: Wednesday, November 11, 2009 5:42 pm CT
Posted by: E.F.I just returned from Chicago, which is my home town. I have lived in CA since 1970. I knew Macy's had bought Fields but wanted to go see it anyway. My hope was that it would still look like Field's anyway--but it didn't. The magical feel of Marshall Field's was gone. At least they still carry the special chocolate!. But regardless, it just didn't have that special look. My friend said it looked like Target because of all the red xmas decorations.
Anyway, good luck with your campaign. Macy's is pretty powerful.
Date: Wednesday, November 11, 2009 5:03 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKayTerry Lundgren jokes about our protests on State Street in a new interview at the University of Pennsylvania's "knowledge@wharton" web site.
Please read and comment at the following site--you can post without a login but I think your post will stay longer if you get one:
http://knowledge.wharton.upenn.edu/article.cfm?articleid=2377#idc-containerDate: Wednesday, November 11, 2009 4:03 pm CT
Posted by: ZeldaThe L.A. Times says it best: "Macy's loses $35 million, calls it excellent." (Emperor walks around naked, says he's got clothes on.)Date: Wednesday, November 11, 2009 3:53 pm CT
Posted by: Blair Brittingham FabianI used to live in Chicago, my home town, many years ago. I just went there after decades and knew it was Macy's now, but I had high hopes that it would still look like the beautiful classy store I remember. Well, it was just plain old Macy's. An o.k. large department store to be sure, but its not Fields. It just didn't look the same or feel the same. There was always a special look and classy feel that is no longer there. It is nothing that special.What a shame. I wish all you Chicagoans good luck with your campaign!
Blair Brittingham Fabian
Date: Wednesday, November 11, 2009 3:35 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKayMotley Fool site has a less than glowing review of Macy's report from today--including comments about the mistake of gettingt rid of the other department store brands, saying they were replaced with "cookie-cutter Macy's locations."
There's a place to comment--please do.
http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2009/11/11/throw-this-stock-away.aspxDate: Wednesday, November 11, 2009 1:16 pm CT
Posted by: Gayle http://online.wsj.com/article/BT-CO-20091111-708944.html
It seems to me they've had sales decreases every qtr since 2006...aren't they approaching negative numbers by now? In other words, soon they'll be actually paying people to shop there?
Oh wait, they tried that already at 111 N. State....
Date: Wednesday, November 11, 2009 12:19 pm CT
Posted by: Alan
Macy's shares are being hammered by their holiday forecast. Interestingly, the only successes they have had have been as a result of localization efforts. I wonder if anyone in management realizes that bringing back the quality and name of Marshall Field's would have a positive impact. Based on buying cycles, it would take about a year to fully implement, so why not start now and prepare for next holiday season?
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009 5:35 pm CT
Posted by: gle
Messy's still strives to paint a rosy outlook, according to this "Chicago Tribune" article:
"Earnings Preview: Macy's Inc. expected to record loss but show sales improved in 3rd qtr" November 9, 2009 by Associated Press
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/sns-ap-us-macys-earnings-preview,0,2611630.story
The webcast tomorrow should be interesting. See http://www.macysinc.com and follow the links from "Investor Relations".
I remember a December in the early 1990's when I worked near State Street and could stop in Field's on my lunch hour. The line for the Walnut Room (with strollers and restless kids) was so long that they had roped-off mazes extending all the way into the next room where the Frango Cafe is now. I contrast that with the empty tables and only a couple of families waiting that I see thus far in 2009. Despite Messy's' seeming preference to act as if Marshall Field's never existed, even to the point where some publicity hints it is Messy's we have known for 150-some years, there are many who know the difference. We aren't fooled by anything Messy's wants us to think. Messy's was NOT here in those past 150 years. Perhaps that's why they don't really know how it was, or understand how it still is with us now.
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009 2:54 pm CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels
No matter which location, Marshall Field's would deck out all their stores in holiday finery.
Those wacky folks at Macy's have tossed the Fields-era decor for cheap plastic balls (about the size of softballs) hanging from the ceiling by ribbon (red, or course). All in all it looks like a child's science fair project. Groups of five or six balls are located up and down the main aisle on the first floor. There are virtually no other decorations anywhere else...well except for stacks of three red boxes tied with bows that are placed around some departments to disguise empty shelves.
Sad.
Remember all the wonderful gift baskets Field's would sell during the holidays? Everyone wanted to give - and GET - a "piece" of Marshall Field's during the holidays. Macy's? No gift baskets. Lesson to be learned: No one wants to give or get a "piece" of Macy's durin the holidays.
By the way, it is a Thursday night around 6 PM and I really am the only person in the Men's department. No one on the lower level either.
Need some holiday cheer? Head over to You-Tube to see the fantastic Marshall Field's holiday commericals.
Date: Tuesday, November 10, 2009 6:07 am CT
Posted by: Susan
Har! Yes-it just struck me, this concept of cluelessness and a flagship store where the most and the best are concentrated. Clueless has a flagship store at 111 State.... this is interesting, imagine Clueless having leadership! Ants do better.
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009 4:34 pm CT
Posted by: gayle
Hi all,
Thought I'd share a story with you about Macy's cluelessness regarding their audience.
My 90 year old mother-in-law lives with us, and is still healthy and sharp as a tack. Although she's well aware of my pro-Field's activity, she has pretty much dismissed it as a waste of time. She misses Field's, but considers its loss just another inevitable change.
Last night, she came out of her bedroom just fuming in anger. She kept saying "How dare they! HOW DARE THEY!" It took me a minute to understand what she was so incensed about. Seems she had seen the Macy's commercial about them being "part of our lives" for 150 years. She was born and raised in Chicago, and took serious offense at their arrogance. She said "all I know is they're some cr*ppy NY store that holds a parade! I've never been in one of their stores, nor do I want to shop there." Actually, she said a lot more than that, but you get the idea. Here was a totally disinterested person, with no real axe to grind against Macy's, but after viewing that commercial she's about ready to carry a picket sign at our next rally.
I'd like to propose some new slogans for Macy's: how about "We're Macy's. We're our own worst enemy." Or maybe "Macy's:looking to the next 150 years of annoying potential customers."
gayle
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009 2:02 pm CT
Posted by: drew
Mike's comments about the former downtown Kaufmann's flagship store are so sadly true. In the 1980s, shoppers came from miles around to visit the three "Big Downtown Stores"--Gimbels, Kaufmann's and Horne's. Gimbels closed in the late 1980s, and Horne's was taken over by Lazarus in the mid 1990s. Although Lazarus made many public relations mistakes when they entered the market, shoppers were able to find good quality and value. Lazarus was establishing a customer base until "marketing genius" Lunkhead started taking the store downmarket with his hyphenation crazed renaming Lazarus-macy's. Shoppers who had enjoyed the Federated quality merchandise and who had experienced the REAL macy's were greatly disappointed by the new incarnation. Fortunately Kaufmann's offered an alternative to the increasingly downmarket competitor.
Somehow Lunkhead thought "the magic of macy's" would guarantee shoppers would flock to the Red Star and thumbed his botox enhanced nose at communities across the country. People have noticed the stores are stocked with nondescript merchandise in a bland environment and have moved on. As Mike mentioned, customers will soon recognize that macy's has just recycled holiday decorations and has shown no real interest in connecting with local communities.
The 150th Birthday Celebration TV commercial clearly illustrates macy's "New York" attitude. Aren't citizens across the nation delighted that they too can share in this New York experience? Guess not!
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009 12:04 pm CT
Posted by: Dean
Macy's has these Veteran's Day ads of a lady casually holding our country's flag in a way that is very disrespectful, like it is a play thing. Shame on you, Macy's!
Twenty years ago, the Berlin Wall came down and the "red star" empire crumbled after it was said it couldn't happen.
Here's hoping that Macy's "red star" crumbles and Marshall Field and Company also comes back after Macy's said it couldn't.
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009 11:23 pm CT
Posted by: Kurt Gerhardt
Some additiional comments to mine of Nov. 7: Here in Portland, OR, where I now live, was Meier & Frank Department Stores, which are now part of the Macy's behemoth. The downtown building was altered to include a large (the Nines) hotel at the top of the building, thus reducing department store floor space. This Macy's sells the same poor quality merchandise that they sell in the rest of their ubiquitous chain. They eliminated the restaurant. The interior is messy and the washrooms are poorly maintained. Macy's had made the decision that all of its stores be a substandard shopping experience when compared to Nordstrom's or what was Field's. Barely above the experience in Wal-Mart, the idea is that Americans don't know or want quality. Department stores in Europe (London, Paris, Berlin) offer a much higher quality experience and range of merchandise. Certainly, a grouping of first-quality retailers in one very large and architecturally significant structure in the center of America's third largest city makes sense. Americans flock to North Michigan Avenue and Fifth Avenue and will once again to State and Washington.
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009 6:39 am CT
Posted by: Susan
Oohh-no one in line at the Walnut Room-in my day you couldn't get near it (or anything) this time of year. The atmosphere was electric. The place was crawling with people, they had to have guards at the ends of the escalators to keep arrived gawkers moving so escalating fellow shoppers did not get stacked up behind them. Really!
"Wish-believe-imagine" is sublimated Christmas greed, not Christmas spiritC3 at best, Peter Pan thinking. (yes, wish, believe and imagine is nice, but so what? Even the Taliban does it.) That 'theme' is a smurfy jab at obviating The Meaning of Christmas. Does the tree have to make a politically correct wimpy 'statement', or does it even have to be 'a color'? What about the joie-de-vive of multi-colorsC3 best of all! A tree that just proclaims generously, once a year, better than we do ourselves: "Love to you!"
Quite frankly, I think that is what all the decorations communicated in the Good Old Days: Love - to- you. The decorating staff outdid themselves with a difficult task each year. We came flocking to bask in that love. Indifference and self-interest don't have the same drawing power.
Yup- there's nothing like it back home (or anywhere now).
Date: Monday, November 9, 2009 12:05 am CT
Posted by: Eric B
I have a Marshall Field's Christmas miracle to share, a recent one. I mean VERY recent:
A few days ago, feeling blah at the prospect of yet another Holiday season without our Marshall Field's, I set about the mundane task of cleaning out our 22-year-old upright freezer, which hadn't been emptied in years. Obscured beneath an archival collection of frozen entrees was a large store-bought foil pan of baked mostaccioli. The dinner party it was purchased for never took place; I forgot how many years ago that was.
Picking up this pan to look for a "use by ..." date revealed a long-forgotten treasure hidden beneath -- a familiar dark green candy box in clear shrink wrap. That's right, a one-pound box of Marshall Field's Frango Mint Chocolates. One edge of the box is imprinted, "Manufactured by the Department Store Division of Dayton Hudson Corporation ... (c) 1994," so it predates both Macy's and May Company.
I placed the box on the kitchen counter and let it thaw for a few hours. Then I cut open the shrink wrap and lifted off the cover. Inside was a small card: " ... For over half a century, Marshall Field's has been making Frango Mint Chocolates on the 13th floor of our State Street store in Chicago ... Field's Candy Kitchen produces more than a million pounds of Frango candy yearly."
It was back in 1999 when Dayton Hudson abruptly outsourced Frango production to a Pennsylvania firm and shuttered the 13th floor Candy Kitchen, so this box of chocolates has been sitting forgotten in my freezer for at least ten years.
Sigh.
Anticipating shriveled blobs of desiccated brownish goo, I was surprised to find the contents intact. With some trepidation I placed a piece of chocolate on my tongue and allowed a few seconds for it to permeate my taste buds. I couldn't detect even a hint of freezer burn, in fact it was unctuously smooth, rich and delicious!
Now I understand the true meaning of the word, "bittersweet." The candies might be worth something on Ebay, but my plan is to relish them and share with my family and friends. And in case you're wondering, I put the mostaccioli back in the freezer, though I can't imagine it being as miraculously well preserved as the Frango chocolates.
-- Eric
Date: Sunday, November 8, 2009 5:34 pm CT
Posted by: drew
Mitch mentioned the TV commercial celebrating macy*s 150th year anniversary. The commercial featured clips from vintage movies and TV shows which mentioned macy*s. I think the commercial was clever and interesting. Mr Lunkhead feels the unfortunate peasants and country bumpkins all across the country should be "excited" and grateful to know that macy's has been a part of their lives for 150 years. Perhaps macy*s should adhere to "Truth in Advertising" laws and revise the wording of its commercials:
"macy*s--part of NEW YORK life for 150 years"
Date: Sunday, November 8, 2009 4:32 pm CT
Posted by: Amy R. Itasca
Dear Bloggers.
I came across this site as a result of a flyer I received on State Street yesterday.
I really miss Field's and hope that it comes back. I have not set foot in the store since it became Macy's.
Date: Sunday, November 8, 2009 1:51 pm CT
Posted by: gle
Press release from the www.macysinc.com website:
"Macy's, Inc. Same-Store Sales Down 0.8% in October"
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1351607&highlight=
Date: Sunday, November 8, 2009 11:37 am CT
Posted by: A State Street spectator
After working downtown Saturday, I rushed to our beloved store building on State Street to see if anything was happening.
Many people rushed past the store as if it wasn't even there. A couple of families with kids stood in front of windows for photos. The Virginia letters to Santa theme shows more creativity than last year's windows, in which piles of FAO toys looked like they were just dumped from shopping bags. However, I noted an obvious lack of curiosity.
A couple of surprises: in the second window South of the Randolph Street corner, Virginia is holding her letter by a mailbox with a backdrop of the store WITH Marshall Field's name plaques under a big green clock. Interesting.
I went to the first floor information area and wrote my letter to Santa, telling him how much Chicago still misses Marshall Field's. A women with a couple of kids was in front of me, but nobody else went near the table, or to the one on the 7th floor.
The holiday tree seems opposite extreme from last year's molten lava RED--it is pale silvery green. I thought maybe they got too many complaints about the garrish RED last year, but Fox 32 9:00 p.m. News that night explained the tree is eco-friendly. Large, silver-green words WISH, BELIEVE and IMAGINE deck the tree, along with large plain silver-green balls and a dousing of tinsel that adds a rather glitter-cobweb effect. Nothing fancy here, or in the rest of the store which has the expected RED, plain RED ornaments, RED carpeting and RED signage promoting stuff Messy's thinks we should believe in buying. Much of the decor resembles that used last year, including the trumpets and Messy's name on the outside.
People trickled through the first floor and some upstairs, but didn't act excited. I saw no lines for the Walnut room, the cash registers, Santa letter tables or anyplace else one would expect a line on opening day of holiday decor. The Walnut Room had many empty tables. The holiday lane offered 30% discount. Frango Mints also offered discounts.
Another surprise: in a rear corner by the 7th floor information desk were Marshall Field's T-shirts! There were three green with white letters, and nine white with green letters--going for $20. Interesting.
I did find a leaflet in the doorway by State and Washington, evidence of our hardworking Field's Fans there earlier in the day. I love the statement about a return to corporate values and hopes for a better life.
So I touched the plaques before going home. A woman saw me and did the same. I gave her a button.
And that is the report from State and Washington early Saturday evening, November 6, 2009.
Date: Saturday, November 7, 2009 11:59 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Thanks to all who contributed in any and all ways to making our leaflet and button distribution on State Street a success today.
Best regards and many thanks,
Jim
Date: Saturday, November 7, 2009 7:40 pm CT
Posted by: Mike
Had a chance tonight to travel to the former Kaufmann's turned Macy's flagship downtown Pittsburgh. What a disgrace!! This store just needs to be put out of it's misery. The Christmas decore is the same old tired stuff that has been used for the last few years. Red foam core on walls and very little decorations adore the inner departments. The side windows look nice but done very simple. The main windows that attract the crowds are still shaded in black but I was able to see a little goings on behind the drapes. I hate to say it folks but it may be the SAME WINDOWS USED FROM LAST YEARS BELIEVE CAMPAIGN!!! I may be wrong... If so how SAD MACY"S.......
Date: Saturday, November 7, 2009 12:43 pm CT
Posted by: Kurt Gerhardt
I want Field's to be the same, wonderful experience that it was when I was six, in 1950. I don't want to be a sourpuss, but I don't quite see that exactly happening. For one thing, the wonderful made-in-America products that lasted and lasted aren't produced in the US anymore. The Field family is out of the retail business and shows no inclination of getting back in. Time's a-wastin' in getting this great and grand State Street Store reinvigorated as this economy begins its upturn. Letting it continue to sit in the doldrums of its current incarnation is not healthy for the great building nor the shopping district in which it's the center. What I again propose is; a totally restored Marshall Field's building with all floors filled with upscale and quality moderately priced goods. Use UPS "free delivery" to transfer those goods, so they don't need to be carried. That's it: chain stores like in a mall. Except this one would have the control over the individual tenants that Field's exerted over its individual stores, making sure they measure up to their high standard This means that the suburban branch stores would not be "Field's" again, but would mean that a totally revitalized "Field's Place" becomes THE shopping destination in the loop. The restaurant floor filled with good food and the Walnut Room as it was in its great days. A suggestion of what can be done is the former Emporium store on Market Street in San Francisco. Too glitzy for Field's, but it hints at what a first-rate restoration could do. Only Chicago does truly first-rate restorations (as in the Auditorium Theatre). Let Macy's keep Water Tower and Oakbrook, if they want them so badly, but let Chicago have State Street back with little kids eyeing the corner windows at Christmastime and making real business in downtown Chicago again.
Date: Saturday, November 7, 2009 10:04 am CT
Posted by: Mike P
Per Jeff S's comments...IIRC they stopped using "Cozy Cloud Cottage" already last year and used Santaland instead....and no I have not seen any pictures of this years tree...*sigh*
Despite Messy's the Christmas Season is always a good time in Chicago...near the State Street store there is the Chriskindlemarket which I always enjoy seeing the German crafts and food...I am planning to get there this year as I always will but will probably make my stop at the M*store only to see and NOT BUY!
Date: Friday, November 6, 2009 5:40 pm CT
Posted by: FieldsFansChicago.org
Please let us know if you would like to assist with bookmark-leaflet and pin-on button distribution under the Great Clock at State and Washington tomorrow, beginning at 11:30 am. Email us before 9:00 am tomorrow (Saturday) morning at Support@FieldsFanschicago.org or call even during the day (312) 662-8980--please leave a message if we cannot answer.
In admiration and respect for all you do to bring back Marshall Field's.
Date: Friday, November 6, 2009 12:34 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
A couple of Chicago Tribune blogs writing about tomorrow's tree lighting in the Walnut Room and the store windows.
In the case of the first, you have the option of using your Facebook login, among others.
You need a login for Chicago Now.
The two links are:
=========================
The travel site "Jaunted" talks about taking your own tour of Chicago.
"Jaunted" writes how the Chicago Loop Alliance has podcast tours that you can download. Part of that tour, if I'm reading the "Jaunted" piece correctly, says:
"From the tour, we discovered that Macy's on State Street, originally called Marshall Field's, was the first department store to have a money-back guarantee, bridal registry and countdown to Christmas."
Well, not exactly. The store that used to occupy that building did that. Macy's did not.
You can use your Facebook or "Jaunted" login to post in the comments section your own clarification to this as I did.
In admiration and respect for all you do to help bring back Chicago's Marshall Field's.
Jim
Date: Thursday, November 5, 2009 8:15 pm CT
Posted by: L. Grand
Really sick of red.
Date: Wednesday, November 4, 2009 8:15 pm CT
Posted by: sean b.
i was just wondering if marshall fields would to make a come back , would that also include the wisconsin orginal locations as well?
Response from the Webmaster:
That would be nice, but getting 111 N State back is everyone's overwhelming priority.
Date: Wednesday, November 4, 2009 8:10 pm CT
Posted by: Jeff S.
After reading the post below about where "Santa" will be stopping, I notice that he will NOT be stopping in Illinois! (I also hear that there will be no more "Cozy Cloud Cottage". The name will now say "Santaland"!)
I hope I am wrong; but when watching the ABC television news regarding the State Street store's Christmas decorations, it looks like the tree in the Walnut Room is only ha lf the size of what it usually is. It looks like a generic, commercial, "cone shaped" tree that one usually sees in malls. Anyone else catch that as well?
Date: Wednesday, November 4, 2009 5:23 pm CT
Posted by: drew
Here is a link to an article about Somerset Collection, an upscale suburban Detroit mall:http://detnews.com/article/20091028/BIZ/910280336/1001/bizI enjoyed the sarcasm in the comment stating Somerset Collection is "home to three high-end department stores--and macy's."
Date: Wednesday, November 4, 2009 5:15 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Macy's, Inc. announces October 2009 Sales tomorrow.
Next Wednesday, November 11, Macy's, Inc. will issue its third quarter 2009 results. This will be accompanied by a conference call. You can listen by following the link in the left-most column at http://www.macysinc.com/investors/cpd.aspx
Date: Wednesday, November 4, 2009 3:02 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
ABC7 had a story yesterday about Christmas preparations at the State Street store. The story failed to mention Marshall Field's even though it discusesthe traditions of the store. I mentioned this in the related comments section and ABC 7 subsequently removed the comment. I reposted...we'll see how it goes.
You can view the article and footage at http://abclocal.go.com/wls/story?section=news/local&id=7098796&status=ok
Date: Wednesday, November 4, 2009 1:04 pm CT
Posted by: Amanda, Sedona AZ
I can't believe Macy's is so hard headed! On their site, there is a section devoted to the store on State Street, and they can barelyB bring themselves to even mention the Marshall Fields name. Absolutely pitiful! Keep up the great work!
Date: Wednesday, November 4, 2009 10:36 am CT
Posted by: Zelda
Hi Field's Fans:
The millions of people who watch "Good Morning America" got a great story today about Macy's selling rubies that aren't really rubies, but merely rubies "enhanced" with glass. Even when the sales people were questioned by reporters about the authenticity, they say they're authentic and need no special care. Of course, we all know Macy's doesn't really train their staff, fired all the longstanding sales associates getting more pay and hired green sales associates for less money, so we're not surprised. By the way, they bought 3 ruby rings from 3 different Macy's and found the gems to be inauthentic at all 3. Anything for a profit, eh Terry? This would never have happened at Field's. Caveat emptor.
Just another reason (as if I needed one) to never shop at Macy's!
Sadly, as Christmas approaches,
with no Field's in view (yet!),
Zelda
Date: Wednesday, November 4, 2009 7:06 am CT
Posted by: Jim
We're in the process of updating our shopping guide for Field's supporters just in time for the holiday season.
Please email infoATFieldsFansChicagoDOTorg with your nominations for shopping alternatives that either have Chicago roots or a Chicago association; that are based out of town but have certain key qualities in the spirit of Marshall Field's; or are an alternate location for retailers and merchants doing business inside Marshall Field's stores before they were converted to Macy's.
We also feature a section on Field's connected books.
You can view last years' shopping guide at http://fieldsfanschicago.org/wheretoshop.html
Date: Tuesday, November 3, 2009 5:12 pm CT
Posted by: gle
Messy's announces its official holiday plans on its website www.macysinc.com.
"Building on 'Believe' Effort this Holiday Season, Macy's Announces a National Santa Tour, National Believe Day and 'Yes, Virginia' Animated Special" http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1347779&highlight=
It looks like there will be another opportunity to write "Virginia" letters to Santa starting November 6 at all Messy's stores. I plan to write a letter, but still don't believe in Messy's.
Date: Monday, November 2, 2009 9:08 pm CT
Posted by: S.B.
With Chicago changing so much over the years... there was always one thing that remained constant and wonderful - Marshall Field's. I hope the day will come soon where we can walk through State Street and be inspired. I haven't enter a Midwest Macy's ever since the takeover. Never have, never will.
Date: Sunday, November 1, 2009 8:23 pm CT
Posted by: Susan
I remember when we used to bring our precious family heirloom photos to Marshall Field's to be restored.
This morning I was reading the coupon inserts of the Sunday paper and it had an ad for Olan Mills photos at Kmart, Meijer and MACY'S!
Macy's portrait studios by the same people who do this for discount stores.
How low can Macy's go?
Date: Sunday, November 1, 2009 11:18 am CT
Posted by: Andrew B
I display a "Marshall Field's Forever" button on my back pack whereever I go.
Date: Saturday, October 31, 2009 3:02 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
The front page of tomorrow's Sunday Chicago Tribune has an article about the new owners of the Chicago Cubs, the Ricketts family. As I read it, I was struck by how the Ricketts "get" what the Cubs and Wrigley Field are all about and I am reminded of that other "universe" where Terry Lundgren and Macy's, Inc. does not have a similar understanding of Marshall Field's and the State Street store.
The Ricketts "get" that it's Wrigley Field that makes the franchise. They have a great passion and understanding that it's all about Wrigley Field. So as I read the story, I couldn't help but hypothesize that if Macy's took over Wrigley Field, they would rename the stadium, tear it down and build a new one that has the ambience of a shopping mall or suburban office park, and bring in some lame players (OK, some might argue the last part is already happening ;-) ) Still, I came away from the read wishing and hoping for new stewards to take over 111 N State Street who would do so in the same spirit that the Ricketts are taking over the Cubs and Wrigley Field.
Macy's doesn't "get" that without Marshall Field's, 111 N State is just the same old ball game you find everywhere.
The Tribune article can also be viewed at http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-sun-ricketts-cubs-nov01,0,210568.story.
Standard disclaimer: This is a non-profit, non-commercial, non-sponsored site developed with the sole intention of focusing on what Marshall Field’s has meant to Chicagoans or anyone who lo ve this great Chicago institution. The views and opinions expressed on these pages are solely those of the authors listed and do not necessaarily represent thos e who operate this site. This site is NOT affiliated in any way with Marshall Field's, the May Company, Federated Department Stores, Macy's, Inc., or keepitfields.org. ©2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010 All Rights Reserved.
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