Thoughtful comments and respectful opinions on the switch from Marshall Field's to Macy's are welcome below. Off-topic, slanderous, disrespectful or abusive posts will not be included 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. Please remember that this is a blog for opinions of Field's Fans. Due to problems with spam, posts are moderated and may take several hours to appear. Thank you for your patience.
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THREE YEARS LATER,
78% of CHICAGO WANTS MARSHALL FIELD'S--12.6% PREFER MACY'SSee our home page for complete details.
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.
Date: Friday, October 30, 2009 5:42 am CT
Posted by: Susan
I suppose the Donald, Martha, Tommy et al will be chief among the few celebrating in the aisle at Macy's this season. A desperate party, it is. When you have nothing left, drop names and service.
Just after the takeover there was a TV series on life at Macy's- clever of them. When the Christmas decoration segment was shown, I was horrified to see it was clear that they tacked the State St store at the last minute onto the end of their NY designer's to-do list, and it was desperately executed, probably not at the scale Fieldsians are accustomed to. One may ask what happened to the MF staff then and now, that the NY guys had to take care of it.
This year's windows should all be on the theme of the Ghost of Christmas Past. A bit of gauze and fluff - maybe stick in a photo (don't need a big one) of the window from some previous year, in memoriam, and you're done. I suppose you could just tape the photo to the window and forget the fluff. Or throw it on the floor and save the expense of tape. Or just pull down the shade. Bah humbug!
Seriously, folks- maybe they will surprise us and make it wonderful. Wait and see!
Date: Thursday, October 29, 2009 7:29 pm CT
Posted by: Mike C.
I see according to Messy's corporate web page they are rolling out AGAIN the "Believe" marketing campaign for Christmas! Please not the mailboxes and the unimaginative dysfunctional window displays again this year!
Date: Thursday, October 29, 2009 7:13 am CT
Posted by: Mitch
Last night, on TV, it was brought to my attention that Macy's has been a part of my life for 150 years.
This comes as news to me as I'm only 59. I remember an R.H. Macy's I used to visit in Manhattan. Sort of a Carson's on steroids, but not as reserved.
What was a part of my life was Marshall Field and Company. I can't remember a Field's commercial that had to tell me they were a part of my life. Like every other deep rooted Chicagoan no one had to tell me. Field's knew they were memorable.
At this time of year my thoughts go back to when I first was brought to Field's by my Mom. For years the standard admonition was, "We're going downtown to Field's. You have to wear a sport coat and tie."
The forst time I became aware of Bing Crosby singing "White Christmas," was while waiting for an elevator with my Mom on the 4th floor (children's toys, clothing,and hobbies.) I cans still see the image in my mind. That one bank of elevators had yet to streamlined. There was the ornamental woodwork, and the cars were still open. I remember crowded elevator cars zooming up and down in full view.
It was Marshall Field's that was part of my life, and one day soon will be again. I find commercials such as the one I discribed above offensive as it tells me something I resent because it just isn't true.
Mitch
Date: Wednesday, October 28, 2009 11:23 am CT
Posted by: Paul
Back in the summer of 2006, I remember on this blog about someone who sat in business class on a plane next to a Macy's exec.
He talked with the exec about how they planned to slowly phase out the rest of Marshall Field's traditions and even downsize the store to fewer floors. Part of it was even leasing out the Walnut room to some company along the lines of the Cheesecake factory.
I wasn't sure about that story when it appeared here.
Three years later, with the tree reduced to something like a repeat of last year's tree and next to nothing about the store windows, I can only conclude that story was for real.
Macy's is a big bait and switcher.
Not just a name change.
Date: Tuesday, October 27, 2009 4:25 pm CT
Posted by: gle
An October 23, 2009 press release from Macysinc.com website announces a quarterly dividend of 5 cents per share for shareholders of record as of COB December 15, 2009.
"Macy's, Inc. Board Declared Quarterly Dividend"
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1345735&highlight=
Date: Monday, October 26, 2009 11:09 am CT
Posted by: Cheng
We miss Chicago haved Marshall Field store.
Date: Sunday, October 25, 2009 11:30 am CT
Posted by: Jeff S.
Was in the Oak Brook store yesterday. Was wandering around the candy department and saw something "new" that I had never seen before. By the bulk candies there are little signs by each tray of candy that say "homemade in our candy kitchen". I would like to know where is the candy kitchen that they are talking about. Surely, it is not State Street's famed 13th floor--or is it? The little tickets by each tray of candy are red and white.
Date: Sunday, October 25, 2009 9:34 am CT
Posted by: Pete
Macy's 102nd Christmas tree?????
HOW DARE THEY!?
Macy's 150th birthday? Lundgrinch says we shouldn't get emotional about shopping. Then why does he think we should care about Macy's 150th birthday?
Date: Friday, October 23, 2009 4:40 pm CT
Posted by: Lindsay
Ever since I was a little girl, and ever since my mother was a little girl, we would make a special shopping trip at Christmas time, JUST to see Field's window displays. Growing up, we lived in a nearby suburb in Indiana and were no strangers to Chicago during other parts of the year - especially when the Cubbies were at home! However, there was just nothing that could compare to our special Christmas trip each year.
Even though I am grown up now and don't live up north anymore, my husband knows how special those trips were to me and would plan a trip for me to visit Marshall Field's. Now that Macy's are everywhere, what's the point?
Date: Thursday, October 22, 2009 4:40 pm CT
Posted by: Steve
I found your website by accident, but must say I support what you do 100%!!
I live in Houston, where our local Foley's chain was acquired by Macy's. Now nothing compares to Marshall Field's and its international rep, but Foley's was a local Houston tradition, eliminated overnight with the sweep of a pen, and all stores now are Macy's. There are now two Macy's within 100 yards of each other!
I am outraged by what Macy's did to Marshall Fields. I visited Chicago often, and admit that Marshall Fields was something special. I will do anything I can to help you guys if asked!
I am so sick of giant companies and their CEOs screwing with our traditions and way of life in America!
Date: Wednesday, October 21, 2009 11:00 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
The info about Marshall Field's and the cookies mentioned in Jimmy Gimbel's post below can be found at http://www.chicagotribune.com/features/chi-1021-lost-recipesoct21-htmlstory,0,3363415.htmlstory I would have missed that were it not for "Jimmy's" post.
While I certainly think Macy's is no match for Marshall Field's, I don't think one can infer that Macy's is responsible ("officially" or otherwise) for State Street's long history of having a number of dicount-type and off-price stores.
Date: Wednesday, October 21, 2009 8:25 pm CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels
Two interesting items in the October 21 edition of the Chicago Tribune:
First of all, the Good Eating section is featuring "Lost recipies, found". Go read it to get a recipe for Marshall Field's hermit cookies with mochca frosting! The article states, "Chicagoans still mourn the conversion of Marshall Field's to Macy's From myriad reader requests we received, it looks like baked goods from store's restaurants and bake shops are among the most missed elements."
Sad, but true. I had many a great meal at Marshall Field's.
Meanwhile, in the business section: "Block 37 future unknown again." Bank of America and ther lenders have moved to foreclose on the project. Many of the original tenants have cancelled plans to open in the space located across the street from the beloved Marshall Field's buidling.
I love this quote from the story: "Then the recession hit. Major chains balked at paying $100 to $150 a square foot in rent for an untested mall on a shopping strip known for discount chains..." Did you hear that Macy's? You've official turned State Street into a discount strip mall. HA!
Date: Wednesday, October 21, 2009 7:15 pm CT
Posted by: drew
I recently received an email advertisement from Kohl's featuring their new lines of dinnerware. Kohl's now stocks various china patterns from Mikasa, Wedgwood, Royal Doulton, Nikko, Royal Albert, Johnson Brothers and Franciscan.
These lines were formerly carried at "better" department stores like Kaufmann's, Marshall Field's, Hudson's, Filene's, Burdine's, Strawbridge and Clothier, Lazarus, Rich's and others. Evidently these manufacturers don't want to have their china associated with a no class store like the Red Star. Fortunately, The Bon Ton, Dillard's, and Belk STILL stock an assortment of quality dinnerware.
We have Franciscan Desert Rose which is an open stock pattern and has been in continuous production for many years. I stopped at the Red Star china department and asked if this pattern was available. The clerk sighed and said, "We haven't carried that since this store was Kaufmann's. There are always customers looking for better china lines that we no longer have." I looked around the china department and said, "How much demand do you have for all this Martha Stewart dishware?" The clerk shook her head and said, "Almost none. It just sits there and they have to mark it way down to get rid of it."
Martha Stewart dinnerware. How tacky!
Date: Wednesday, October 21, 2009 6:30 pm CT
Posted by: drew
This Wall Street Journal article names macy*mart as one of "the worst run companies of 2009":http://www.thestreet.com/story/10614801/2/the-worst-run-companies-of-2009.htmlEvidently Terry and the board of directors STILL haven't gotten the memo: a nationwide chain of bland, boring, overpriced, nondescript quasi "department stores" trading on the reputation of a once-iconic New York retailer is an abject failure which hasn't worked and won't work. The chain is "caught in the squeeze" because it offers neither distinctive quality merchandise nor great value.
Date: Wednesday, October 21, 2009 3:06 pm CT
Posted by: Jim
Newcity is running its annual Best of Chicago survey. Under goods & services? Vote for "Best Imaginary Twitter Post by Marshall Field."
To vote for the "Best Imaginary Twitter Post by Marshall Field", go to http://newcity.bestofchicago.sgizmo.com
Date: Wednesday, October 21, 2009 9:28 am CT
Posted by: Linda in GA
We have a building, the Hand Trading Company Building, built in 1916 that was modeled after the Marshall Field's Building.http://www.mitchellcountyga.net/html/pelham.html
Date: Tuesday, October 20, 2009 5:37 pm CT
Posted by: gle
Macy's ads make me sick.
Date: Tuesday, October 20, 2009 10:00 am CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Thanks to all who responded about today's Letter to the Tribune Editor contrasting Marshall Field's and Macy's ads.
The letter to the editor that all Field's supporters should respond to can be found on page 14 of today's home delivery, broad sheet edition.
It can also be found on the web at http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/opinion/chi-1020vplettersbriefs2oct20,0,3670396.story
Because the letter is in print, please be certain to email a response to the editor as well as comment in the the comments section after the online version. Send your letters to the editor at the "Tribune" at ctc-TribLetter@tribune.com. This is important because the response to such letters also demonstrate to the Tribune whether our cause is still of general interest and worthy of future coverage.
Date: Tuesday, October 20, 2009 8:46 am CT
Posted by: Jack
Great Letter to the Editor in this morning's Tribune. A Lombard woman (thank you Ms. Lebeau) wrote to comment that "I miss the dignity that was protrayed in Field's ads"... with reference to a Macy-Calvin Klein ad featuring "a young woman wearing a pained look on her face and Calvin Klein underwear". Her closing comment echoes how we all feel about classless Macy. "How about some Modesty in Merchandising" What may look good in NYC or even LA is offensive to many of us.
Macy does not get it on so many levels. Marshall Fields was always a "class act". Even in its later days when $$ issues made things not as perfect as before, one could still go to the Walnut Room at Christmas, look at the windows and be reminded of a time when things were not so hurried, and people (think the Walnut room waitresses Hostess/Host and staff) were civil to one another. Another Christmas is soon upon us, and again, I WILL NOT BE SETTING FOOT IN A MACY STORE!!. I am fortunate to have above average spending power. One gift will come from Tiffany. (Great items especially in Sterling Silver jewelry). Another gift was bought at the Art Institute gift store. I do shop with my feet at least 80% of the time. I'll spend about $1000 this Christmas. See Ya Macy .... NOT. Terry L, ARE YOU LISTENING??? Give CHICAGO what it wants, its BELOVED Marshall Fields.
JACK
Date: Tuesday, October 20, 2009 7:59 am CT
Posted by: Martha Haastrom
Great Letter in today's Chicago Tribune about Marshall Field's. It's been a while since I have looked at the Letters because for a while there, they printed so few and had all those unneeded photos.
Date: Tuesday, October 20, 2009 7:04 am CT
Posted by: S.E.
Tribune has a voice of the people about Marshall Field's today.
Date: Monday, October 19, 2009 9:58 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Macy's could learn a lot from Apple.
A couple of others have had similar comments--and back several years ago, I was involved in a large grant from Apple as part of work.
Based on that, I'd like point out a few things, given today's many news stories about Apple's 47% increase in profits in the quarter just ended.
First, Apple has some great commonalities, but is not exactly the same as Marshall Field's: for starters, Apple's first and foremost motto would not be "Give the lady (or gentleman) what she (he) wants".
However, let's face it, Apple has expensive products but people are still finding the money to buy them during this horrible recession because they are a great value. The products are of the best quality, the service in the Apple stores is supreme because the staff exudes how much they love to work there, and the stores are more than a place to shop--they are a destination with a great experience that is exciting, entertaining, and educational.
Marshall Field's on State Street used to be like that for people all around the world as well as we Chicagoans. When Macy's took over, the State Street store went to being like an Apple store to being like just another PC dealer.
Apple demonstrates the best of American ingenuity and retailing; Macy's on State Street demonstrates what is wrong with American retailing.
What's more, Apple was given up for dead by all the "experts" back about 13-14 years ago. Then had a stock price around $15. Today, Apple is back stronger than ever, with a stock price that hit over $200 yesterday. Now, clearly there are some differences between Apple circa 1996 and Marshall Field's circa 2008; however, it's another comeback story that we can point to, that yes, Field's can and will come back.
Date: Monday, October 19, 2009 11:25 am CT
Posted by: DAWN C.
Although I now reside in Arizona, I flinch every time I go back for a visit to Chicago. Macy's? Ugh! NOT THE SAME!
I wear Marshall Field's pin-on buttons proudly not only on my visits home, but here, in Arizona, for those who know and love Marshall Field's as I do and always will.
Date: Sunday, October 18, 2009 6:39 am CT
Posted by: Jim McMahon
I have never been inside the new Macy store in Chicago and cannot bring myself to do it. I continue playing the mega lotto just in case it comes up for sale.
Date: Sunday, October 18, 2009 3:02 pm CT
Posted by: gle
Just what Chicago doesn't need is another Messy's eyesore in place of a Christmas tree. Judging from what is already up in the 6th floor holiday trim department--lots of RED, avacado green and garish plumes--I don't expect anything worthy of a special trip downtown. I actually had to look around for the religious and the Santa decorations. Apparently that's not what it's about anymore, at least not at Messy's.
How I remember the pleasant trips and holiday festiveness at Marshall Field's. Everybody seemed happy to be there--and EVERYBODY was there. And everybody I talk to still wants to be there.
Date: Saturday, October 17, 2009 9:36 pm CT
Posted by: Mike
http://mobile.associatedcontent.com/article/2209279/analysis_steps_to_avoid_a_macys_bankruptcy.html
Thought you guys would find this interesting. Macy's was once a great name in retailing. If Macy's did this and brought back Field's, I would be their #1 customer.
Date: Saturday, October 17, 2009 12:24 pm CT
Posted by: Caroline L
I live in Scotland and my first visit to Chicago in 1999 was great but what really made my stay was Marshall Field's, which we visited on several occasions. As a 'plus size' lady the range in Field's was amazing and I spent a fortune in Ralph Lauren and on bags, gifts, etc. We have been back in Chicago a couple of times since, the last time in 2003, and I was devastated to learn that it was being taken over by Macy's. The first stop for us after dropping the cases at the hotel was a visit to State Street! I yearn to return to Chicago and would urge them to keep the Marshall Field's stores the way they were as it was truly "The" emporium of all times. Harrods is good but, for me, Marshall Field's was better.
I am delighted to read of your campaign and wish you every success so that I and others may continue to shop in this wonderful store.
Caroline
Date: Saturday, October 17, 2009 9:16 am CT
Posted by: BLJ
I was just through the downtown store and you would think it was December 24th. You can tell they have no staff and have to start decking the halls in mid-October. I don't remember Field's doing this. Are they not having windows this holiday season? They currently have "come together" stuff in them...wouldn't they be under construction for Christmas at this point, and it is strange they are not advertised in the ad in Chicago Magazine.
Date: Saturday, October 17, 2009 7:21 am CT
Posted by: T.J.
As a former Chicagoland resident now living in the Atlanta area, I grew up with Marshall Field's and was a big fan of theirs. The change to Macy's has been disappointing to say the least.
Date: Saturday, October 17, 2009 6:29 am CT
Posted by: Paul
"Dead apathy" is spot on! I live near Oak Brook, going into that store is like Zombie-town. You can tell it was nice before, but it's like the aliens have landed & made all the employees numb to the world. Automatons . . . robots! I miss the personal service, quality merchandise, and people who gave a damn about making shopping a pleasurable experience, not a chore!
Date: Friday, October 16, 2009 12:51 pm CT
Posted by: Susan
Is it possible to purchase someone else's history? If it wasn't before, it is now, at 111 State, at the foot of the 102-year-old Macy's traditional-tree. Phooey.
Date: Friday, October 16, 2009 10:20 am CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Page 49 of the November 2009 issue of "Chicago" magazine has a full page ad about this year's Christmas Tree at Macy's on State.(In the shape of a Christmas Tree)This is followed by a "Magic of Macy's" logo.
Macy's great tree lighting
(text)
Saturday, November 7th at Noon, Macy's on State Street.
Light up the nights this holioday season. Join us in the Walnut Room for the 102nd unveiling of Macy's Great Tree. Be dazzled by visions of brilliant stars, glimmering lights, timeless ornaments and toys from Santa's Workshop on our 45-foot tall tree.
The tree will be on display through Sunday, January 10, 2010.
Date: Thursday, October 15, 2009 9:19 am CT
Posted by: gw
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=conewsstory&tkr=M%3AUS&sid=a_n5jYAHotUUThis is an interesting interview with Howard Davidowitz who is still very negative about Macy's and their terrible integration of May stores, including Marshall Field's. Be sure to click the "video" tab to hear the full comments.
Date: Wednesday, October 14, 2009 9:45 pm CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels
Want to see Macy's from an employee perspective?
Go to www.jobvent.com and search for Macy's.
Oh, my goodness! You'll get a real jolt from some of stories shared by employees. It even worst than we thought kids.
Date: Wednesday, October 14, 2009 4:57 pm CT
Posted by: Bonnie
I live in the South Loop and went out to watch the marathon runners on Sunday. There was a guy wearing a shirt about bringing back marshall field's. The crowd, including me and my whole family, got a big kick out of it. I have never written to this blog before, but I thought you should know. Chicago is behind you.
Date: Tuesday, October 13, 2009 10:17 pm CT
Posted by: John Robertson
My wife and I were in Chicago in 2005, and we spent most of our one week vacation in Marshall Fields. My wife named Marshall Fields "the best department store on earth." The stores warm style and decor, massive inventory, onsite cafeteria, well-prepared food, and friendly personnel set Marshall Fields apart from most of the department stores where we shop. The only other department store with this level of class is Harrods in London. It would be a shame to diminish the shopping experience by converting this fine store into a Macy's. I urge the owner's of Macy's to leave this store, which is steeped in tradition, alone and allow it to continue it's legacy of excellence and style.
Date: Tuesday, October 13, 2009 9:44 pm CT
Posted by: Cheryl A
I miss Marshall Fields! I HATE MACY'S!
I miss Marshall Fields! I HATE MACY'S!
I miss Marshall Fields! I HATE MACY'S!
I miss Marshall Fields! I HATE MACY'S!
I miss Marshall Fields! I HATE MACY'S!
I miss Marshall Fields! I HATE MACY'S!
I miss Marshall Fields! I HATE MACY'S!
Oh and did I say I hate Macy's??
Date: Monday, October 12, 2009 11:41 pm CT
Posted by: Natalie
I live in Bloomington; some of my earliest memories involve my mom and I riding up to Chicago on the train, shopping/eating at Marshall Field's. It crushes me that Marshall Field's is no longer the moniker on the State Street store, but it will always be Marshall Field's to me. : ( We have a deep and abiding love for the store and how we were treated while in it.
Date: Sunday, October 11, 2009 9:08 pm CT
Posted by: Drew
I was in downtown Pittsburgh Saturday afternoon. I had seen an item in a Red Star Columbus Day sales flyer that interested me, so I decided to check it out. I went to the department, but could not find the advertised item. When I asked the sales associate about the item, I was told the downtown store didn't stock it. The salesperson said, "macy*s doesn't merchandise its stores all the same and some items are only at certain stores." The salesperson said that customers come to the store looking for advertised merchandise and become angry when told the items aren't available in that particular store.
The salesperson has worked in retail for many years and "never saw a company run like macy*s." Multiple concurrent sales, inconsistent merchandising, identical items priced differently at stores in the same market area, confusing coupons are some problems the sales associate mentioned. The person stated that the "original macy*s stores" get different assortments than the converted Kaufmann's stores.
I said I was surprised the downtown Pittsburgh store didn't have the full assortment since it was Kaufmann's flagship location. The clerk laughed and said "this isn't a flagship anymore." Although the downtown store was Kaufmann's best producing store, it is like 550 out of 800 macy*s stores. The associate said the management complains that sales and customer traffic have steeply dropped since the conversion, but "they don't sell what people want to buy."
We shared a few laughs about the "celebrity" merchandise and "imitation" designers. I truly feel sorry for the salespeople who are unable to meet their goals and must deal with unhappy customers because of the sheer arrogance and stupidity of Terry and his inept management staff.
Date: Sunday, October 11, 2009 2:08 pm CT
Posted by: Carol B.
YES PLEASE REOPEN MARSHAL FIELDS. FROM ALLISON, CAROL. DAVID. BOB
Date: Sunday, October 11, 2009 1:59 pm CT
Posted by: gle
As the Christmas holiday season draws near, I think of the fun of going through Field's to see what would be there. I remember checking the Walnut Room for what date the tree would be up. In later years I enjoyed observing my end-of-November birthday there after work with Eggnog and Jul Log Cake. It was best to go as early in the season as possible before crowds jammed the 6th floor trim-a-home shop, the wonderful holiday-themed windows on State Street and anyplace in the store where a person needed to buy gifts. Marshall Field's was such a joyful place to be, even when it got crowded.
I cherish my first trip to Field's to see Santa, and how fantastically overwhelming it was to a small child who had never even been downtown before.
The dead apathy at Messy's is SO different from what I remember at Field's. My "I want my Marshall Field's" button is now drawing comments from other people thinking toward the holiday season who wish they still had Marshall Field's to enjoy. We all hope a day will come when someone owns the store who can return the experience of shopping at Field's. It is an experience Chicago needs now as never before.
Date: Sunday, October 11, 2009 12:42 pm CT
Posted by: Dick Larkin
Here's an award winning video about the history of Marshall Field, the man, the store and the impact.
It also includes a rare interview with Marshall Field V.
http://blog.commandomarketing.com/2009/10/marhsall-fields-amazing-impact-on-chicago/
The video was produced for the National History Day by my daughter when she was an 8th grader. It won the City of Chicago competition and won a Superior Mark at the State competition in Springfield.
Without Marshall Field, the steel mills would not have been built in Chicago or Gary.
Date: Saturday, October 10, 2009 9:37 pm CT
Posted by: jeffrey b.
i am so sorry to hear macy's has taken over the fields brand. i was a manufacturer's representative for to fields and a loyal consumer. macy's has the reputation of making the retail experience a generic shopping outing. one has to wonder when wal-mart will move into the building occupied by the former fields.
Date: Saturday, October 10, 2009 6:10 am CT
Posted by: Susan
I follow Project Runway. This year they have been 'captured' by M--y so the M name is mentioned every week when the designers are reminded to use accessories from the wall of shelves displaying same from M--y. M--y also recently surfaced in Top Chef territory, revealing a noble plan to feed the poor; the winner received a $10K gift card. They don't have time for mere trees because they obviously have a Higher Calling. I don't know how they might inveigle their way into SYTYCan Dance unless they decide to support the arts by pushing deodorant or liniment. (Did I just hear one of them say why didn't we think of that? Gift boxes all round!) Actually, that may be coming when the Top Twenty are chosen. Stay tuned.
Date: Friday, October 9, 2009 8:27 pm CT
Posted by: JasonM
Still haven't bought one thing at Macy's - no clothes, no furniture, no watch repair... all things I would buy at Field's especially State Street.
Macy's has to start closing stores in Chicago. Yeah, I don't want to see them go bankrupt but they have to listen to the consumer (because we're not customers). If they don't listen, then maybe they should go out of business.
Date: Friday, October 9, 2009 2:31 pm CT
Posted by: E.H.
Our family misses Fields!
Date: Thursday, October 8, 2009 12:40 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Like "Jimmy Gimbels", I also have been wondering about the status of the Walnut Room Tree and Christmas windows theme for State Street. (Clearly, they won't have the FAO Schwarz windows at State and Randolph.)
Regarding the September sales report, keep in mind also that Macy's has included its online sales as well in the overall figures. Those are up significantly--14.8% last month. That's not surprising because of the proliferation of the internet.
One has to wonder what same stores sales would be like if internet sales were taken out of the picture.
The full press-release (which isn't very long, IMHO), is at:
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1339995&highlight=
Date: Thursday, October 8, 2009 8:20 am CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels
Retail report out today (10/08/09).
Macy's had a 2.3 percent decline, less than the 4.6 percent drop that analysts surveyed by Thomson Reuters had projected.
Penney had a 1.4 percent decline for September, lower than the 3.5 percent decline Wall Street estimated.
Interesting how analysts always project greater sales declines at Macy's than the stores competitors: Penny's, Kohl's, and WalMart.
By the way Macy's, you're late getting out the press release about the no-so-great tree in the formerly famous Walnut Room.
Date: Wednesday, October 7, 2009 5:40 pm CT
Posted by: gle
An official Messy's press release from the macysinc.com website announces the winner of a Project Runway contest to design an exclusive holiday dress for Messy's "INC International Concept brands."
"INC Dress to be Available in Select Macy's Stores in December."
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1339150&highlight=
While having nothing against this person or Project Runway (and I will admit I don't know a great deal about either), I think a beneficial "holiday dress" for Messy's and for State Street would be to simply re-design the whole store back into Marshall Field's. The first time I ever went to Marshall Field's was during Christmastime at age five, and now 50 years later I really miss having it to go to as we approach another holiday season. That's what I think of every time I WALK PAST Messy's.
Date: Wednesday, October 7, 2009 11:07 am CT
Posted by: JamesfromCA
I saw this picture , it says it all. The location is Columbia Mall, Grand Forks, North Dakota.
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_AcUdTl7Aq-s/Sj_fi-4nX_I/AAAAAAAANjw/dM-OBYga2sc/s1600-h/ColMall_2_MatchboxND.jpg
Date: Tuesday, October 6, 2009 10:39 am CT
Posted by: Bette E
I worked at Fields in the 60s while studying in Cnicago.
I moved to California and brought my family to the Christmas windows each year until it became another Macy's. I have not been in the store--or any Macy's--since.
Anyone can have Macys but Fields represents the history of our lives.
Date: Monday, October 5, 2009 12:39 am CT
Posted by: Kathy Koehler
I was born and raised in Chicago and there was no other store like Marshall Field's. Listen to Chicago and "give the city what it wants" - Marshall Field's on State Street! When I come back to visit Chicago, it's just not the same without Marshall Field's. Plese bring Marshall Field's back - we will never patronize Macy's.
Date: Sunday, October 4, 2009 4:41 pm CT
Posted by: Charles Celestine
I have grown to hate Macy's even more each year. The ads and products sold are no longer as specific per region. Federated had the best names in regional department store retail, but instead of choosing brands to grow they have forced Macy's down our throat like a dressed up Wal-Mart. It's sad to think designers like Vera Wang bring affordable lines to Kohl's when you would expect to see these clothes in a Macy's store instead.
I can remember the day when the entry designer lines by top names were sold in our regional department stores along with new names who hadn't made it big yet. Now we are forced to deal with Macy's store brands that knock off clothes from the affordable lines sold at discount stores without the discount price.
I also hate the fact that you rarely get a paper shopping bag anymore, even if the items you have purchased are too heavy for the thin plastic bags Macy's gives you. Macy's has no clue why we shopped at department stores........for me it was always the experience, now Macy's is just another store with no customer service and cheap plastic bags.
Date: Saturday, October 3, 2009 10:40 pm CT
Posted by: Rich
Another Holiday season draws near and ANOTHER year without our Beloved Marshall Field's
It used to be SO easy -- I would pick a Saturday between Thanksgiving and Christmas -- usually the first weekend of December -- and I would spend all day at State Street and ALL my wants and needs would be answered in Grand style. Field's would provide wonderful answers for Christmas -- Luch in the Walnut room would be a wonderful mid shopping rest--If I needed to order anything -- Field's would have it delivered to my home on time for Christmas.
And SO MANY little things for work associates that I would have to choose between multiple options that would all be great as a smaller gift for the Holidays.
How I miss those full Green, or special Holiday, Bags!
9 Floors and one day and it would be complete -- Not Replaceable!
To The Great Once and Future Marshall Field's
Date: Saturday, October 3, 2009 4:02 pm CT
Posted by: drew
This Detroit Free Press blog survey "What Store Do You Miss?" offers many negative comments about the Red Star.http://detroit.momslikeme.com/members/JournalActions.aspx?g=190182&m=7697043I would suspect that the folks who took time to comment about the Red Star are but a tiny fraction of those who share the same dislike of the lackluster replacement for their beloved Hudson's/Marshall Field's.
Date: Saturday, October 3, 2009 8:49 am CT
Posted by: drew
More from your friends at the Red Star--their credit card with a 106.08% APR. Be sure to watch the video after you read the article.http://www.thepittsburghchannel.com/news/21190025/detail.htmlThey recently raised the APR on regular credit cards to 24.99%--yet ANOTHER reason NOT to have a Red Star credit card. Tell everyone you know about the Red Star's newest way to alienate and antagonize their rapidly dwindling customer base.
Date: Saturday, October 3, 2009 6:40 am CT
Posted by: Susan
Seeing a comment here about Field's as a historic monument -- made me think many others must have had similar thoughts. After watching Ken Burns' National Parks this week, enthralled and moved and inspired- I could not help but think, while Field's State Street might not qualify for National Monument status, for some of us it ranks up there. It has offered a treasured experience to so many of Americans as well as foreign visitors, it has been there so long, through trials and tribulations and triumphs.... it represents a real pioneer success story (those merchants were right out there on the frontier if there was someone they could sell to!) C3 one that was still being written til Macy's pulled the pen.
It might be difficult to convince some people to give such honor to a mere merchandising concern, but MF was so much more than that. Framing it in its proper historic context, and giving recognition to its place in architectural history, and honoring the Field name in the development of Chicago's cultural identity.... not so small a consideration after all.
One thing I got out of the National Parks series is that somehow seers have arisen, one after another, to challenge small thinking, and pivotal holders of power have allowed themselves to get the point, and give support. A second thing became clear: the fundamental truth that the experience of placesC3of all kindsC3can help define each of us as individuals and as a nation.
While shopping is not the same as struggling for the right to shopC3 the concepts presented in the program such as "returning [to a nature] home," revisiting a familiar and beloved place and passing the experience on to one's children, and honoring those exceptional sites which have given shape to one's character and life-experienceC3do have bearing on the Field's issue.
It is small wonder so many of us across the land are upset over the Macy debacle.
Date: Friday, October 2, 2009 6:24 pm CT
Posted by: Bob
Any word on who has designed this years Tree and what the theme will be? Macy's is really slow on this.
Date: Friday, October 2, 2009 5:42 pm CT
Posted by: A Field's Fan
This theatre prodcution mentions Marshall Field's in passing during the show. It ellicits a positive and exceited response from the crowd.
http://leisureblogs.chicagotribune.com/the_theater_loop/2009/10/superior-donuts-broadway-review-tracy-letts-michael-mckean.html
Date: Thursday, October 1, 2009 11:20 pm CT
Posted by: LWK
After three years I still hate Marcy's!!
Date: Thursday, October 1, 2009 4:17 pm CT
Posted by: Rebecca S.
I lived in Evanston for two years and loved shopping at Marshall Fields, and it's one of the things that made Chicago unique and differents.
My malls here in North Carolina have Macy's here, and I can't even bring myself to shop in those, even if I have seen that they sell Frango mints. No! Those are Marshall Fields.
Even though I'm not in Chicago, I proudly wear a button here in North Carolina.
Know you have supporters outside of the greater Chicago area.
It's a travesty, and Chicago should get back its Marshall Fields.
Date: Wednesday, September 30, 2009 6:54 pm CT
Posted by: B. LaBarbera
Marshall Field's was more than a store; it should have been designated an historical landmark! Field's was a way of living, and it distilled the very essence of the Chicago which I knew and loved; Macy's is the antithesis of all which Marshall Field's represented. PLEASE BRING MARSHALL FIELD'S BACK!!! Thank you!
Date: Wednesday, September 30, 2009 1:14 pm CT
Posted by: Lillian C.
I am a Chicago native now living in Pittsburgh. I was cruising around the web looking for the Chicago 2016 site and saw this one. I am shocked that Marshall Field's was bought out and replaced by Macy's. I have to agree with some of the other comments on this thread that Macy's is turning into an overpriced KMart. It's that way here in Pittsburgh, where they also destroyed a longtime local favorite high quality store - Kauffman's. Why do these retail monsters feel that they have to constantly appeal to the lowest common denominator? I remember going to Marshall Field's on State Street every Christmas season to see the windows, and have lunch with my Mom in the Walnut Room. I loved that store! Bring back Marshall Field's!!!!
Date: Wednesday, September 30, 2009 11:17 am CT
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels
After those wacky folks at Macy's made so much noise about their latest designer exclusive, let's take a look at what Tommy Hilfiger has to offer us for our Fall wardrobe.
First of all, the selection is quite small. Mostly sweaters with a few jackets and shirts tossed on the table. And true to Macy's, the prices are outlandish and the quality is sub par.
The sweaters are soooooo thin that you might need to layer three or four to actually stay warm. Think paper thin. Is that decorative stitching I see? No, just uneven stitching around the collar.
Are those loose buttons on the jacket. Why yes they are. How trendy. It must be that the decontructed look is back in style.
Please explain to me, dear readers, why the mannequin in the Tommy H area is dressed in INC clothing.
Well, like the sign says, "Only at Macy's". How true.
I also went to visit my "friend" in the Frango Shop. Yes, that box of Frango Mints from Christmas 2006 is still on sale at Macy's. I dusted it off and put it back on the top shelf next to the organic Frango Mints that are also quite dusty.
I've notice that out dear Martha was moved out of the prime spots in Housewares. Not selling well dear?
All I want for Christmas is Marshall Fields.
Date: Tuesday, September 29, 2009 5:30 pm CT
Posted by: S.B.
To elaborate...
It may be beneficial for Macy's Inc. to consider selling some of the trademarks/real estate it has acquired over the years. Considering the slump in sales, it would be a wise move to get some cash by selling the Field's trademark and 111 N State Street to a PE firm. It would be the best use of the assets that Macy's has acquired and it would allow for them to still have a presence in Chicago through Water Tower. From a business perspective, it just makes a lot of sense to release some assets rather than go bankrupt! The true value of building + the trademark is where they'd get the most.
Date: Monday, September 28, 2009 5:21 pm CT
Posted by: L. Grand
There may be an explanation as to why macy*s Board of Directors and shareholders are silent, and have been.
Undoubtedly, these people must see that he has brought ruin to the company. However, I believe he gets a golden parachute whether he's fired or is retained. And his contract expires in 2010? With that in mind, perhaps the board and/or shareholders would like him to "pay" somehow for his eventual golden parachute, by keeping him on to bear the brunt of criticism, ill-will, and mockery that he's brought upon himself by his attitude and actions. I suppose if I was a board member and knew he would fly away rich either way, it would only serve justice to have him stick around and take all the flak that he's engendered, knowing and awaiting the day when he will see us waving goodbye and saying "Good riddance." Just my thoughts.
L. Grand
Grand Rapids, MI
Date: Monday, September 28, 2009 2:19 pm CT
Posted by: drew
As readers of this blog can attest, the Red Star has indeed "fallen short" in its meager attempts to differentiate itself and to connect with customers:
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Department-Stores-Are-Focused-ms-2840199169.html?x=0&.v=1
Date: Monday, September 28, 2009 11:41 am CT
Posted by: Susan
Then I am old fashioned, too. There's nothing like the good dept store experience- I am even thinking of the one that was still alive in our small town 20 years ago, a small but interesting relic from the 30s whose demise, oddly enough, coincided with the appearance of a huge mall 60 miles from here, the nearest one of that grandeur (Macy's now being its anchor). A mall is a deconstructed, discombobulated dept store with missing teeth here and there. At a mall there is no consistency or great sense of identity except for whatever DEPARTMENT store serves as its anchor.
Date: Monday, September 28, 2009 11:41 am CT
Posted by: S.B.
Imagine... if there are changes in the management at Macy's Inc. I wonder if dozens of trademarks that were acquired throughout the years will be freed. Think about it... will the Magnin family finally get to bring I. Magnin back to San Francisco? Will someone recognize the value of Filene's and reinstate it historic Boston? And of course someone will take the trademark of the ultimate department store Marshall Field's, and finally bring it back to it's right home on State Street.
The possibilities are endless.
Date: Sunday, September 27, 2009 2:04 pm CT
Posted by: gle
Messy's on State has their Christmas/holiday department up already. I went there on a Saturday and didn't see ANYONE, not even a sales associate, at first. The decor obviously has a lot of red, with some rather sickly avacado green, and an abundance of garish plumes. It made me think more of a bordello than anything religious. A sales associate eventually emerged and pounced on me (another living person). Then another "customer" showed up and she pounced on her.
Frango mint boxes on the 7th floor all seem to have the manufactured by Macy's in New York labeling. A few had the Gertrude Hawk label. Cupid Candies in Chicago apparently isn't getting any visible credit.
There were more empty tables than those with customers in the Walnut Room at about 1:00 p.m. in the afternoon. The Frango Cafe only had a couple of customers--I thought it was closed at first.
I asked the customer service person by the 7th floor archives if the store was having anything to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Daniel H. Burnham's "Plan of Chicago," since the State Street store IS a lovely Burnham building. He said there was nothing he knew of and that it was a shame. (Customer service on the 1st floor told me the same thing about a month ago.) The 7th floor desk does have copies of the One Book One Chicago selection about Burnham. That's it.
While there was some walk-through traffic on the first floor, the upper floors seemed so empty it was almost scary to be there. Messy's might blame the economy for lack of sales, but even people who don't have money go through a store to look and feel a little better by being there. I can't remember Field's or any other store having so few people in the building on a Saturday afternoon. It seems clear that shoppers just plain aren't interested in being inside Messy's.
And people outside Messy's keep responding to my button with--it's just not the same as Field's!
Date: Saturday, September 26, 2009 1:05 am CT
Posted by: David P.
At a backyard bbq party last night the conversation turned to the loss of Marshall Field's on State (I DIDN'T initiate it). I was fascinated to listen to three life-long Chicagoans and one transplated New Yorker bemoan Macy's and tell of their personal boycotts. None knew of this website or the protests.
My favorite was the Brooklyn-born transplant who said: "I grew up with Macy's, but I could actually shop at Marshall Field's. I went in there to buy pants, shirts...that stuff you need for work and there was all this stuff that I had no idea what it was. All these made-up brand names that had no appeal. And the help didn't know anything about what they were selling. I never went back. That was two years ago."
These stories simply don't end.
Cheers to the return of Field's!
-David P.
PS: Repetitive State Street windows that feature a photograph of a model and a prop bottle of Michael Kors perfume? Gimme a break. No wonder people prefer to shop on the Internet.
Date: Friday, September 25, 2009 3:58 pm CT
Posted by: Judy Marth
I guess I'm just old fashioned, but I'm one of the dwindling few who actually DO want to shop in a department store! I can't buys shoes off the internet, and I'd really like to see and feel the material of clothing before I spend the money (and possibly have to send it back). Call me crazy, but I'd certainly be shopping on State street again if Marshall Field's was there!
Date: Friday, September 25, 2009 12:06 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Writer argues for broadsweeping changes at Macy's in order for it to avoid bankruptchy. One step, he argues, is to bring back Marshall Field's and Hudson's. This, like the other articles this week, is based on the study saying that Macy's is a bankruptcy candidate.http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/2209279/analysis_steps_to_avoid_a_macys_bankruptcy.html?cat=3
Date: Thursday, September 24, 2009 1:59 pm CT
Posted by: drew
Great analysis of Kohl's strong performance in a difficult economy:
http://stocks.investopedia.com/stock-analysis/2009/Kohls-Strong-Among-Weak-Retailers-KSS-M-JCP-SHLD-JWN0924.aspx?partner=YahooSA
Kohl's has connected with customers and has established its identity in the marketplace. While Kohl's has adapted to the economic realities and has responded to consumer needs and wants, our friends at the Red Star have opted "to stay the course" and continue business as usual.
Although sales are down month after month and customers have moved on, "those wacky folks at macy*s" somehow believe that shoppers will return when the economy improves and stubbornly refuse to change their strategy. Didn't someone define "insanity" as doing the same thing over and over but expecting different results each time?
Date: Thursday, September 24, 2009 10:07 am CT
Posted by: N T
It is common knowledge that Macy's and Field's were rivals. It is a slap in our face and tradition.
I hope an investor will come forth and take back the Chicagoland stores and bring the Marshall Field's tradition, quality and business ethics back.
I will come back to Field's with a heartbeat....
Date: Wednesday, September 23, 2009 8:47 pm CT
Posted by: drew
Given all the media coverage about the Red Star's possible bankruptcy, I find it unbelievable the Board of Directors and shareholders remain silent. As stock prices plummet and sales continue to fall, Mr Lunkhead evidently retains full support of the Board. Do directors and shareholders not visit the stores and see firsthand how macy*fication has failed to connect with shoppers everywhere?
President, CEO, Chairman Terry has backpedaled from his original plan of coast-to-coast clones as he promotes his latest innovation of "localization." Evidently he hasn't noticed JC Penney and Kohl's have captured the mid level shopper, while Saks, Lord & Taylor, Von Maur and others have attracted the upper level customers. The Red Star is competing for discount shoppers who look only for the lowest possible price and has earned the well-deserved reputation as "an overpriced Kmart."
Mr Lunkhead should be held accountable for the millions of dollars in lost "goodwill" and be required to supply actual sales and profit figures, not figures "adjusted" for consolidation, reorganization, and whatever other alleged costs he can conjecture. Perhaps bankruptcy might be the best option--Lunkhead and his disengaged board can be ousted and a team of merchants can be employed. A new team might rebrand the stores and "give the lady/gentleman what she/he wants."
Date: Wednesday, September 23, 2009 8:22 pm CT
Posted by: drew
Another article discussing the study that predicts that macy*mart is heading toward bankruptcy:
http://www.thestreet.com/_yahoo/story/10601873/1/are-rite-aid-macys-bankruptcy-bound.html?cm_ven=YAHOO&cm_cat=FREE&cm_ite=NA
Mr Lunkhead has cut services, product lines and staff in an effort to improve the bottom line. His stores offer neither quality or value; there is nothing unique or special to attract customers. I don't think very many consumers would miss macy*mart.
Date: Wednesday, September 23, 2009 4:43 pm CT
Posted by: Susan
must say- this size 11 thing. It never occurred to me (when I lived in the area) to go shopping at Field's anywhere, especially State Street, for size 11 shoes. I am sure it mattered to some of Field's shoppers, and it is a Good Thing. In the day, it was there for them in the great MF way, no fuss. But how ludicrous is it to anticipate a shopping population swarming to 111 State to buy size 11s now that the word is out? Or should I say Lundicrous? Q-tips? Wipes? Flamingos? Perhaps "thinking micro" is a management stratagem that will have to go into the next generation of marketing textbooks. I believe 3rd graders could do a lot better. Maybe they ought to get a few in to advise.
Date: Tuesday, September 22, 2009 10:21 pm CT
Posted by: Jeff W.
The bleak prospect for Macy's Inc. as stated by Yahoo.com is hardly a surprise to anyone who knows that local department stores who catered to their communities, always did better than national chains on a local basis. Had Macy's (Lundgren) been willing to retain the monikers of Field's, Kaufman's, Filene's, Famous Barr, May Company, and a host of other local store brands, they probably would not be in the really bad financial shape that they are in. Lest anyone think that bankruptcy for Macy's is not possible, one need only look back a year to the example of Lehman Brothers who was lead into default by Dick Fuld, who by the way still got a golden parachute of $500 million when the stockholders lost their investments. I am sure that Terry Lundgren has a well defined golden parachute too.
Date: Tuesday, September 22, 2009 5:41 pm CT
Posted by: gle
I agree with comments on this blog about the Yahoo.com article. If I want ordinary "stuff" I can go to a neighborhood Walgreen's or CVS, or anyplace easier than trekking to State Street. Messy's does not have anything unique, as Marshall Field's did. Over the weekend I wore my "I Wany My Marshall Field's" button to a neighborhood historic homes tour, and couldn't believe the number of people who said the same thing--Messy's doesn't have anything special, it is NOT the same as Field's, I don't even bother to go there anymore, etc. In 3 years of occupying Field's, you'd think Messy's would learn. The public sure has!
Date: Tuesday, September 22, 2009 2:30 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Thanks to all who posted or otherwise emailed about the front page story on Yahoo.com about the study of possible bankruptcy candidates.
YES! I would have missed it had it not been for YOU! Also, the many posts about the topic demonstrate the interest. Don't ever be shy about making a post because you think it might have already been covered. Your posting is a big help and an important indicator.
I think I speak for many when I say emphatically that I don't want Macy's to go bankrupt: I just want them to start using good business sense and truly genuine responsiveness to what customers overwhelmingly want--Marshall Field's!
When business decisions are driven by ego and delusion, those responsible need to suffer the consequences of their bad decisions. As customers, why would we give our money to companies who choose not to give us the Marshall Field's type goods and services that we want? Why should I give my business to a store that insists that I am wrong for not liking what they offer in terms of shopping experience? I much prefer the Marshall Field's shopping experience to the Macy's shopping experience. Why would I give my money to something I don't like?
The story as posted on Yahoo! asks who shops department stores anymore. I don't think people shop department stores that offer little, if anything, more than a discount or on-line retailer offers; however, people will shop a department store that is special, offering great goods and service and a very unique experience. Harrod's, KaDaWe, Bon Marche, Selfridges, and some others offer that and people are willing to fly to another continent for that. And it's what Marshall Field's offered. People want to shop Marshall Field's. People from all over the world.
Ultimately, if Macy'goes bankrupt, it is because they didn't give the lady (and the gentleman) what they want.
Our hope is for someone who is intelligent enough to recognize that will enter the scene and bring back Marshall Field's as it should be. [Addendum]
Keep in mind that if there were to be a bankruptcy, new owners or new management, it sets the stage for possible change, but it also can mean the need for stepped up efforts on our part (sudden, last-minute rallies, for example) to impress on some new figure how bringing back Field's to State Street is the highest and best use.
Date: Tuesday, September 22, 2009 2:15 pm CT
Posted by: A Earl
We all knew that this was coming and here is some validation:
Date: Tuesday, September 22, 2009 10:48 am CT
Posted by: JimmyD
Hot off the press! According to the Business Insider (9/18/2009), Macy's is ranked 4 on a list of companies that have a high potential for bankrupty...http://finance.yahoo.com/tech-ticker/article/336235/Ten-Big-Companies-That-Are-Veering-Toward-Bankruptcy?tickers=AMD,LVS,S,M,GT,MYL,HTZ
Date: Tuesday, September 22, 2009 10:29 am CT
Posted by: Gail
Macy's is included in "Ten Big Companies that are Veering Toward Bankruptcy."
Gail
Date: Tuesday, September 22, 2009 10:28 am CT
Posted by: Alan
Macy's is definitely getting the benefit of the doubt since it is one o the "survivors" of the recession. However, something to keep in mind is that the "My Macy's" initiative itself was a major backtrack on Lundgren's part. Their first strategy was a complete national strategy, eliminating localization. The next logical step once "My Macy's" runs out of steam (which is inevitable) is re-branding. I still maintain it is unlikely as long as Lundgren is CEO (as it would be a complete repudiation of a strategy he had publicly associated himself with), but the seed has been planted for a future CEO to take that step.
Date: Tuesday, September 22, 2009 7:42 am CT
Posted by: Judy
in case you didn't see this, check out #4!! Ten Big Companies That Are Veering Toward Bankruptcy: Tech Ticker, Yahoo! Finance
http://finance.yahoo.com/tech-ticker/article/336235/Ten-Big-Companies-That-Are-Veering-Toward-Bankruptcy?tickers=AMD,LVS,S,M,GT,MYL,HTZ
Date: Tuesday, September 22, 2009 7:36 am CT
Posted by: Amazed
Yahoo has main page item about Macy's being on Audit Integrity's list of names that "have the highest probability of declaring bankruptcy among publicly traded firms."
Date: Monday, September 21, 2009 4:49 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
The Business Courier of Cincinnati has a brief blurb about My Macy's. Mr. Lundgren uses the addition of size 11 ladies shoes as a success of "My Macy's" in Chicago.
You are required to login to comment--but please do so. A copy of my response follows the article which is at:
http://cincinnati.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/blog/2009/09/my_macys_learns_to_walk_in_chicagos_shoes.html?surround=lfn#tp_newCommentAnchorMy comment was:This past spring, FieldsFansChicago.org completed a survey of 522 shoppers on Chicago's Michigan Ave and State St. Conducted three years after Marshall Field's was converted to Macy's and after Macy's started implementing "My Macy's" in Chicago, 78% of participants said that they still preferred Marshall Field's; 73% said they shopped the Chicago-area former Field's stores less since they became Macy's; and 78% said that they would shop those store more if they were converted back to Marshall Field's. (MOE = +/- 4.23%, CI = 95%) Just over a week ago, on September 13, 2009, there was another protest rally for the return of Marshall Field's to Chicago's State Street. Macy's is not succeeding despite the addition of size 11 ladies shoes. Chicago overwhelmingly still wants Marshall Field's--not Macy's. See http://FieldsFansChicago.org
Date: Monday, September 21, 2009 3:27 am CT
Posted by: mike weber
As a native-born Chicgoan (my great-grandfather owned a saloon in Cicero) and a resident of Atlanta since 1972, i am not sure whether i am more incensed over the loss of the Marshall Fields or the Rich's names.
In Atlanta, it's worse than in Chicago in some ways, because they bought up Atlanta's other Main Store, Davison's, and changed its name to Macy's ... and then they merged it with Rich's and slapped the Macy's name on the resulting chimera.
I don't shop at Macy's.
I used to.
But not any more.
Date: Sunday, September 20, 2009 7:59 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Target is selling FieldGear again. Only this time, it's FieldGear garden tools--rakes, garden shovels and spades, etc.
Back maybe two or three years ago, Macy's had a FieldGear-branded item for one of its Black Friday doorbusters; I think it was a camping radio or something, not the every-day casual wear and home goods we Field's loyalists associate with Field's under the helm of Dayton-Hudson/Target. I haven't seen FieldGear clothing or sheets at Macy's but maybe I missed it.
I couldn't find on the label as to who makes or imports the FieldGear rakes, shovels, etc. It only said that they were made in China. Rather than carrying FieldGear at Target, it could be that some company just makes things under the FieldGear brand for both Macy's and Target and whomever else wants to sell the items. Maybe it's coincidence that these FieldGear items are carried by Marshall Field's former parent company.
Target also carries Fieldcrest linens. Fieldcrest was Marshall Field's brand for many years, but it was spun off from Marshall Field's decades ago.
Date: Sunday, September 20, 2009 8:47 am CT
Posted by: Lili Michigan
Hello,
I was hoping to find a Marshall Fields site and stumbled on this one. I wasn't aware being new to this area of the midwest that it no longer exists. I was...a Hudson's shopper too, so I understand. I agree that the Macy's quality is not comparable to Mashall fields. I thought Hudson's and Marshall Fields had a good "quality-price and variety" ratio compared to other lower or higher chains, of the same or other brands.
I try as hard as I can not to shop at Macy's although...it unfortunately happens once in a very great while, mostly because certain items are only carried by Macy's and where I live the other stores are not up to par either. I would love for Marhall Fields to come back and I hope you will succeed in this endeavor.
Date: Saturday, September 19, 2009 6:23 pm CT
Posted by: Jeff S.
oWell, well. A sign of the times for our beloved Marshall Fied's turned Macy*s--the Christmas Trim shop up on 6 (where the 28 Shop was located before moving down to 3)is DOWNSIZED this year. The "back room" of the department, seperated by moveable mirrored panels, is not going to be "open" this year! Same old Marshall Field clock ornaments as last few years. Bet they're the best sellers in that whole department!
Date: Saturday, September 19, 2009 11:04 am CT
Posted by: S.B.
Nice article on the history of Marshall Field's the man and Marshall Field's the store.
http://www.jg-tc.com/articles/2009/09/18/features/doc4ab3ab19b765b631546895.txt
Date: Friday, September 18, 2009 4:39 pm CT
Posted by: drew
ANOTHER report that the Red Star is "veering toward bankruptcy":http://finance.yahoo.com/tech-ticker/article/336235/10-Big-Companies-That-Are-Veering-Toward-BankruptcyEven when the economy improves, how many consumers will "actually WANT to shop at macy*s"? Marshall Field's, on the other hand, was a unique destination that people around the world came to and shopped at.
Date: Friday, September 18, 2009 10:15 am CT
Posted by: S White
I wish you all the best with your campaign (from London, England). I have not yet visited Chicago but look forward to doing so and seeing the Walnut Room! The same thing happened to a store in Manchester, UK. Kendal Milne, established in 1832 (making it the oldest department store in Europe!)was bought by Harrods in 1909. They wanted to change the name to Harrods, Manchester. Today am sure a lot of stores would love to use the Harrods name but people in Manchester were proud of their store and voiced their protest. Harrods gave in and the store traded as Kandal Milns & Co. (Harrods Ltd) until the 1970s when House of Fraser Group bought Harrods and its other stores. The store has been known as Kendal Milne or Kendal's for 170 years. Unfortunately a few years ago House of Fraser refurbished the store and its now changed name to "House of Fraser". Great shame...
http://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/s/147/147875_kendals_shoppers_slam_name_change.html
Date: Thursday, September 17, 2009 9:43 pm CT
Posted by: Matthew L
Very interested in supporting Marshall Field's cause. We need them back!
Date: Thursday, September 17, 2009 9:26 pm CT
Posted by: drew
CNBC analyst predicts the Red Star might be among firms soon filing for bankruptcy. Interesting how Mr Lunkhead's various "magic" accounting schemes may soon be destroyed by harsh economic reality:
http://www.cnbc.com/id/15840232?play=1&video=1259093533&__source=yahoo|headline|quote|video|&par=yahoo
Date: Thursday, September 17, 2009 5:41 pm CT
Posted by: gle
Messy's is promoting its fall makeover tour in eight cities across the U.S. This is a contest women can enter to be reinvented with the help of a style expert. The tour will be on State Street October 10.
An official press release can be found on the macysinc.com website:
"Macy's and Clinton Kelly MAKEOVER AMERICA - Fall Season!"
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1333000&highlight=
Nothing personal against Clinton Kelly, I don't even know him. But don't we wish Messy's would just make itself over--and sell the store to someone with the ability to make it back into Marshall Field's.
Date: Thursday, September 17, 2009 4:54 am CT
Posted by: David M
Hi!
I just looked through the site and wanted to thank you for the good work you're all doing. I didn't realise there was a recent yearly protest. I used to work for Field's back in the mid 90s in Houston as an assistant department manager until they sold the stores to Sak's. Field's has always had a place in my heart and I'm still lucky to be friends with many associates. When I moved to Chicago 9 years ago it was special to walk into State Street. Unfortunately it's not the same.
Date: Wednesday, September 16, 2009 7:34 pm CT
Posted by: Chris
I saw the protest on Sunday and was given a flyer. We don't shop Macy's at all even though it is less convenient to shop elsewhere.
Macy's sells the same things I can get elsewhere for less. Field's was special.
Date: Wednesday, September 16, 2009 12:38 pm CT
Posted by: Kurt G
In this week's (Sept.14) "The New Yorker", Patricia Marx, in her article "Chicago Style", writes that a Chicago matron now walks through what was once Marshall Field's "only as a shortcut to duck the rain" and that "all of us are ticked off that they (Macy's) took over". With about 850 insipid department stores spread across the country, does anybody at Macy's understand the word exclusivity? Or the concept of "hometown pride"?
Date: Tuesday, September 15, 2009 5:44 pm CT
Posted by: gle
It was GREAT to see so many Field's Fans out at the rally on State Street September 13! I think we made a statement that Chicago doesn't allow itself to be kicked around, and that Chicago still prefers Marshall Field's to Macy's and that's the way it is.
Field's comments have started again on a "Tribune" blog following an article about stores attempting to cater to personal tastes of the shopper:
"Retailers try to get personal with shoppers" September 13, 2009 by Booth Moore
http://www.chicagotribune.com/features/style/la-ig-retail13-2009sep13,0,215095.story
Date: Tuesday, September 15, 2009 12:46 pm CT
Posted by: C. Otnes
Hi -- when's the next rally, please?
Date: Tuesday, September 15, 2009 2:35 am CT
Posted by: Ming-Yao C.
I'm wondering when will be the next possible rally? I am interested in attending.
Date: Monday, September 14, 2009 10:30 pm CT
Posted by: Jim McKay
Thanks again to everyone for yesterday!
If go to this site's main homepage, you will find several photos from yesterday added to photo scroll. A special "thank you" to "gle" for the photos!
Many regards,
Jim
Date: Monday, September 14, 2009 9:50 pm CT
Posted by: Kurt Gerhardt
In today's(9/14/2009)Crain's Chicago Business (http://www.chicagobusiness.com/cgi-bin/article.pl?articleId=32361) I commented on the ongoing saga of Block 37. "Had the Marshall Field's Buildings (Store) been sensitively restored and developed into a premium shopping experience instead of the pigsties they've been allowed to become, there would have already been great development on Block 37. Anyone who has been through the former Emporium store on San Francisco's Market Street knows that it can be done. Retailers from L.L. Bean and J. Crew to Hermes and Christofle would want to have a location in a revitalised "Field's Center" on State Street. Restoring the Walnut Room (featuring a few of the former favorites) and the restaurant floor with dining and take home options would be a magnet. Next-day free shipping from UPS would ensure that office workers and tourists alike wouldn't be burdened with parcels. The sheer pleasure of moving through the great, irreplaceable architecture of the Marshall Field Buildings would create an experience that would make State Street a travel destination once again." And, due to investments now being made by the Federal Government, high-speed rail will be available from Union Station within a few years, thus, it makes it an undeniably attractive tourist destination and retail center for Chicagoans.
Date: Monday, September 14, 2009 7:52 pm CT
Posted by: Zelda
Isn't it great that after 3 years, we still get cabs, buses and cars honking whenever we have a rally for Marshall Field's? It's so clear that those of us who march with signs represent the vast majority of Chicagoans, who support our cause. The spirit is alive and well, and our cause endures. And did you notice the sign across the street about Bigsby and Kruthers returning? Great stores can come back, especially when there's a whole big market that is being ignored.
Date: Monday, September 14, 2009 7:03 pm CT
Posted by: Gregg Taylor
The most relevant sentence in the Sept. 14 New Yorker article for fieldsfanschicago readers is the following sentence:
"'All of us are ticked off that they [Macy's] took over,' said a Chicago matron who will now walk through the place only as a shortcut to duck the rain."
Date: Monday, September 14, 2009 5:33 pm CT
Posted by: Catherine
I really appreciate your continuing efforts to bring Marshall Field's back to Chicago and especially State Street...where I have so many fond memories of the store...the clock...the Christmas windows...the Walnut Room...beautiful decorations and particularly a special feeling that Marshall Field's is indeed Chicago.
Date: Monday, September 14, 2009 4:32 pm CT
Posted by: Z/M, G, J
There is a photo of yesterday's rally in today's Chicago Tribune on page 8 of section 1.
[ Update: the photo is only in the home-delivered broadsheet format edition and not in the news stand, tabloid edition. ]
The image can also be viewed online -- be sure to add comments afterwards.
http://www.ch icagotribune.com/features/chi-pod-pix,0,6615505.photogallery?index=chi-pod13fields20090914063756Everyone looks great!
Date: Monday, September 14, 2009 12:44 pm CT
Posted by: Rich Wilson
It was great seeing everyone at the rally yesterday! It was also nice that we picked up a few more people right outside of M*cy's ti join our line. What I found to be funnier though was that we actually did not block many people from going into the M store--because there were hardly ANY customer s who wanted to go in! The store must have been a ghost town. For a few moments, I thought the blonde security woman who was standing outside and o bserving us was going to pick up a sign and join in!
Date: Monday, September 14, 2009 8:46 am CT
Posted by: Sue
I think the entire city would prefer Field's over Macy's.......
Store is no comparison - Water Tower or State Street,
Date: Monday, September 14, 2009 8:07 am CT
...but deep in the woods of Southern Indiana.
I don't shop Macy's here either, which, besides Sears, is Bloomington's only department store.
Glad to hear that you had a good crowd.
I, for one, would renew my charge account with Field's if it were under new ownership.
Date: Monday, September 14, 2009 7:13 am CT
Date: Sunday, September 13, 2009 9:34 pm CT
Listen on your radio or via streaming audio at http://www.wdcb.org/ .
Date: Sunday, September 13, 2009 7:50 pm CT
Let us remember longtime Chicago Tribune columnist, Ellen Warren's column which generated more comments than any of her columns over the years:
http://featuresblogs.chicagotribune.com/shopping_ellen_warren/2007/05/what_a_shocker_.html#comments
"What a Shocker! Shoppers say 'Macy' is a four-letter word."
What was said in May 2007 is even more true today, September 13, 2009!
Date: Sunday, September 13, 2009 7:41 pm CT
I heard a news story on WBBM-Newsradio 780 this afternoon that was a report from our rally. You could hear the rally participants chanting in the background as Jim McKay was interviewed. Jim was excellent, as usual, and the rally sounded terrific!
Date: Sunday, September 13, 2009 4:40 pm CT
I hope that soon we will prevale and Macy's will again beoome Marshall Field's. If it does, I will shop there whenever I am in town.
Date: Sunday, September 13, 2009 12:15 pm CT
Yesterday I was shopping at a Salvation Army thrift store in suburban Pittsburgh. As I browsed the shelves, I noticed a box with the distinctive Marshall Field's script. The box was marked "LANDMARK a set of 3 jiggers" and contained shot glasses with a picture of the Great Clock in Field's distinctive green. Needless to say, these glasses are now part of my collection.
Any info on when these glasses were sold would be appreciated.
Date: Sunday, September 13, 2009 6:49 am CT
I hope today's event is a success such that even indifferent onlookers have to admit the issue is not just a passing interest.
Date: Saturday, September 12, 2009 4:34 pm CT Date: Saturday, September 5, 2009 3:23 pm CT
She talked about how she missed Field's and it was easy for her to boycott Macy's because she didn't like what they sold.
Date: Saturday, September 5, 2009 1:23 pm CT Date: Friday, September 11, 2009 10:56 pm CT
The question that I have always tried to figure out:
Why would anyone make fun of and berate a tremendously large group of people as Field's Fans, wanting to being back such a distinctive cultural, historical business which is an iconic, internationally-known and respected retail emporium of a department store?? Marshall Field stores had class, sophistication, merchandising beyond all imagination and true, true service. All that is gone now.
The only conclusion I have: They have connections with macy's in some way, and realize their paychecks depend upon macy's surviving. It's so obvious. For sure they didn't expect you to be so increasingly strong still after three years!
The average citizen would respond: Hey, bringing back Marshall Field's! Sounds fine with me. If I'm not going to be out there with them, I'm certainly not going to stand in their way.
At any time you read or hear of someone writing against your efforts, chances are they are paid macy employees or macy family members who have as much grace as a "bull in a china shop". (By the way, do you suppose that's why macy's has eliminated so many china departments of Field's stores?)
Date: Friday, September 11, 2009 8:23 pm CT
We'll be out on State Street again tomorrow afternoon. If you would like to help, look for us from at least 1:30 to 3:30 pm and hours beyond that. If you would like to help, please email info@FieldsFansChicago.org or call 312-662-8980.
Here's to meeting you Sunday at 1:00 pm under the clock.
Date: Friday, September 11, 2009 6:39 pm CT
Please be sure to leave comments--it's very important that you do.
Date: Friday, September 11, 2009 6:39 pm CT
Last night I was driving home from work, and listening to the radio. I don't know if what I heard was intentional or accidental in timing, but it was priceless!
I first heard a nice, funny ad for Kohl's. They began by promoting a huge four-day sale. Then a new announcer came on, and identified himself as "the guy that reads all the exclusions for *other* store's sales." He said "you know, like 'this sale excludes women's wear, men's wear, children's wear, bedding, electronics, and anything else that you might possibly want or need'." He goes on to say that the Kohl's sale doesn't exclude anything, so he has nothing really to say. It was cute, and came across as a direct attack on Macy's.
The VERY NEXT COMMERCIAL, immediately following, was an ad for Macy's newest most spectacular three-day-long One Day sale, the only one of the season even though they've done four of these in the last month....you get the picture. After the hype, a new announcer that did indeed sound like the guy from the Kohl's commercial came on and said something like "exclusions apply, see store for details, sale prices only valid for XXX days, yadda yadda yadda."
It was so perfect! Macy's continues to be their own worst enemy.
See you Sunday under the clock!
gayle
Date: Friday, September 11, 2009 12:47 pm CT Date: Friday, September 11, 2009 7:17 am CT Date: Friday, September 11, 2009 6:34 am CT
It is also on line at
Field's fans can also send letters to the editor at the "Tribune" at ctc-TribLetter@tribune.com.
Date: Thursday, September 10, 2009 9:34 pm CT Date: Thursday, September 10, 2009 7:37 pm CT
Rich
Date: Thursday, September 10, 2009 5:38 pm CT
I've gotten some comments about "Macy's hasn't changed it back, so I guess we're stuck with them" (often followed by a sigh). I've also handed out quite a few buttons to people who say they still want their Marshall Field's, whether Messy's is still there or not.
Who says we're stuck with Messy's! Just because it's sitting there, neglecting a building and pushing junk most people say they don't like? I think Messy's is stuck with customers outside the store instead of inside because they have shown they don't care about what is important to Chicago such as Marshall Field's, Daniel H. Burnham and people who live, work and visit in Chicago.
On September 13 we will continue state by our presence outside the store that Chicago refuses to be stuck with Messy's. Even after 3 years, Chicago still prefers its Marshall Field's.
Date: Thursday, September 10, 2009 9:20 am CT Date: Wednesday, September 9, 2009 12:50 pm CT
As Al put it, the writer really captures the ethos of the emporium.
If you don't subscribe, be sure to pick up a copy of the September 14, 2009 edition of the New Yorker.
Date: Wednesday, September 9, 2009 11:54 am CT Date: Wednesday, September 9, 2009 11:52 am CT
Check out the article and THE COMMENTS and, if you are like-minded, be sure to click "recommend" after the comment.
Date: Wednesday, September 9, 2009 10:25 am CT
See you all at the rally!
Judy
Date: Wednesday, September 9, 2009 8:41 am CT
Thank you "gle", Joe and Jim for your continual, hard-working support for Marshall Field's. Your ambitious and successful volunteer efforts at the entrance to the OPRAH anniversary television show at Ohio and N. Michigan Avenue was so gallant and superb. On behalf of all Field's Fans everywhere, THANK YOU! A true class act in the fine traditions of Marshall Field & Company.
Date: Tuesday, September 8, 2009 10:36 pm CT
Even in NYC, the smart people know Macy's replacing Marshall Field's was a huge loss!
There is a free abstract of the same article at
Date: Tuesday, September 8, 2009 9:23 pm CT
1,000 "I Want My Marshall Field's" and 1,000 special leaflets promoting our rally for this Sunday were snapped up in just 20 minutes.
It's great to know that there were 1,000 people with buttons in support of Field's in the Oprah audience.
Thanks again to Joe and "g" for their efforts.
Date: Tuesday, September 8, 2009 8:32 pm CT Date: Tuesday, September 8, 2009 3:45 pm CT Date: Tuesday, September 8, 2009 11:12 am CT
Another thing I miss is the idea that you were buying from a very special and unique store.
But most of all, I miss how they would suggest merchandise that was truly great without ever being high pressure. It always worked like a charm.
Date: Tuesday, September 8, 2009 9:18 am CT Date: Monday September 7, 2009 8:32 pm CT
We plan to come to the rally on State this Sunday.
Date: Monday September 7, 2009 6:34 pm CT
Messy's is no match!
Date: Monday, September 7, 2009 5:23pm CT
If you can help, please email info@fieldsfanschicago.org or calling (312) 662.8980.
In respect and admiration for all you do to bring back Marshall Field's.
Date: Monday, September 7, 2009 12:59 pm CT
Go to
Date: Monday, September 7, 2009 1:34 am CT
What is the largest department store?
The world's largest department store is Shinsegae Centum City in Busan, South Korea, with the floor size of 293,905 sq. m, 95,405 sq. m larger than Macy's in New York City.
The largest department store (in the U.S.) is Macy's in New York City.
Some argue that the former Marshall Field's flagship store on State St. in Chicago (now Macy's) is even larger than the Macy's store in NYC in total square footage. The Chicago store is so large that there is a percentage of the building not being utilized and sits empty and blocked off from the rest of the store.
I've been saying that for years, long before the Federated/Macy's debacle of 2006.
Keep up the great work!
Date: Sunday, September 6, 2009 5:23 pm CT
You can view a Adobe Acrobat PDF file
The specific instructions for printing can be found at our leaflets page.
Date: Saturday, September 5, 2009 8:34 pm CT
Macy' and Field's are not the same. It was more than a name change.
Date: Saturday, September 5, 2009 7:23 pm CT Date: Friday, September 4, 2009 9:55 pm CT
Did you notice that the clock in the Macy's video is set at two different times? My other favorite was the archive featuring Macy's history in Chicago!
mds
Date: Friday, September 4, 2009 9:38 pm CT
We haven't bought anything from macy's since the hostile takeover either. Just because we haven't been posting, doesn't mean we are aren't serious about bringing Marshall Field's back. We read your website regularly and agree with everything being said. Everything is so well-written and stated, we can't think of anything to add.
We are telling others where we work to keep boycotting macy's and bloomingdale's too. Good Luck at the rally. Chicago needs a distinctive department store to call its own.
Date: Friday, September 4, 2009 6:49 pm CT
If each of you could bring along one person---maybe even two--- Field's Fans, that would help our effort, and help them participate as well.
Please ask your friends to come along with you and show our strength. Thank you.
Date: Friday, September 4, 2009 5:13 pm CT
Mr. Jim Cramer of CNBC is offering viewers and readers the chance to vote on his group of Worst CEOs of 2009.
Remember: Include specific reasons in your narrative to support your nomination. Do not merely list a name. Make your nomination meaningful by telling "why".
Date: Friday, September 4, 2009 1:47 pm CT
She seems to be supporting Mr. Lundgren as a loyal support office employee would do in keeping his or her job. In the true Marshall Field's tradition, I was professional and polite in discussing the Marshall Field's demise and why macy's does not measure up. I could tell by the pauses and sighs, that my call must have been among the hundreds received. I distinctively got the impression that Terry Lundgren's front office did not expect the resistance to be going on stronter for three years after the take-over. In fact, if I were able to read the "body language" through the phone, I could almost read: "Oh, no! Another Field's call.") Our boycott is working mooe and more with time, and our group/individual involvement is keeping the issue in the forefront, Field's Fans!
It is important that Field's fans and supporters of all regional department stores that were macy-ified, to let your views be known at macy's corporate front office.
Once again, the number to macy's corporate executive office is:
800-264-0069 Ext 2425.
You may speak with a human being if you call between 8-4 Eastern Time. Once again, please be as respectful as possible in getting your points across.
Date: Friday, September 4, 2009 10:55 am CT
I am preparing a slide-show lecture on the history of this great department store and am in search of great stories and photographs about this grand old department store.
Remember shopping for toys on the 4th floor? Eating lunch in the Walnut Room? Please pass along your stories! Have great family photos of visiting Santa or wearing favorite FieldC-s fashions? IC-d love to see them.
Stories and photographs can be sent to me at l-goddard@att.net. Photos must be attached to your email. Please include a little background information about you and the photograph. I recommend TIFs or JPEGs , no less that 400 x 400 in size, 72dpi.
By sending your photograph to me, you are giving me permission to use it in a slide-show lecture about the history of Marshall Field and Co.
Thanks for your help in saving memories of this much-beloved store!
Date: Friday, September 4, 2009 9:41 am CT
The Bon Ton stores offers this program:
http://www.bonton.com/category/our+community/community+day.do
The Red Star offers this event:
http://www.smartmoney.com/Spending/Deals/Christmas-in-September-Sizing-Up-the-Early-Deals/?afl=yahoo
How generous of the Red Star to give $10 of a $25 donation to Thanks for Sharing charities. What happens to the extra $15?
In contrast, The Bon Ton offers the coupon books FREE to charities which keep the ENTIRE amount for each book sold! In other words, if a charity sells 100 Community Days coupon books for $5, they keep the entire $500! BTW The Bon Ton's coupons are quite good with very few limitations.
These are difficult economic economic times and charities are hurting. Donations are down and worthy causes are suffering. How disgusting, sickening and appalling that Red Star would take a $25 donation and give ONLY $10 to charity! Is the other $15 a "processing fee" or does Mr Lunkhead use this money to shore up his bottom line. What Mr Lunkhead should tell his gullible customers is "Thanks for Sharing...your donation with US." The Red Star is offensive in so many ways and continues to distinguish itself as a no-class dump!
The Bon Ton absorbs the cost of producing their coupon books and ALL the money goes totally to the charities. Tell your friends, family and neighbors--support deserving local charity by purchasing Community Day coupon books at The Bon Ton, Elder-Beerman, Carson's--better department stores which offer name brand merchandise at fair prices!
Please note that views opposing this, or any of our posts, are welcome, including those correcting facts, provided sources are indicated. The right to decline a post is reserved; those with valid email responses will receive an email response.
Date: Thursday, September 3, 2009 5:42 pm CT
I look forward to Field's Fans rally on September 13 at 1:00 p.m. and hope we can get as many people as possible out at State and Washington (under the clock) so Messy's, the media and the world can SEE that Chicago still prefers Marshall Field's, NOT Messy's.
Date: Thursday, September 3, 2009 7:58 am CT
No doubt Red Star executives will blame a later Labor Day for dismal sales. By making extensive cutbacks in merchandise offerings, services and staffing, Mr Lunkhead and Company have been able to stay afloat; how much longer can Red Star continue to play this losing game. Sales are down, shoppers are gone and are not coming back. Mr Lunkhead arrogantly and foolishly gambled with regional department store nameplates, supply lines, and employees' lives--and he LOST big time!
Perhaps bankruptcy will enable a new board of directors and management team to "give the lady (and gentleman) what she(he) wants."
Date: Thursday, September 3, 2009 12:16 am CT
Date: Wednesday, September 2, 2009 6:13 pm CT
Sorry, I don't love to use vulgar profanities, but this came to me about 2 months ago: macyf**cation. That about sums up what macy's has done to dozens of regional favorites across our nation. The CEO and perked board members of this disgusting corporation are certainly very good at bringout out the fury in people.
I think our nation is long overdue for a return to EXCELLENCE. Marshall Field's led the way, and so we are long overdue for the return of Marshall Field's.
Date: Wednesday, September 2, 2009 12:16 am CT
The loss to Chicagoans remains enormous. I see the red star bags dotted about the city and sometimes ask folks on the bus en route home from work "How is that place? I've not shopped there since the change from Marshall Field's." I am ALWAYS greeted with the same response: "It's not the same, but it's what we've got".
Indeed, which is why I don't go there.
I shudder at the thought that I originally lived in Chicago back in 1982 for 15 months before moving to NYC for 10 years. In 1982 the current North Michigan Avenue "Best Buy" was a "Bonwit Teller", the "Border's Books" at Pearson & Michigan was "I. Magnin" and the "Victoria Secret" was a low-rise 1920s building housing "Margie Korshack's", a designer boutique which I think I misspelled. Anyhow, it was a different world.
Macy's (then R.H. Macy's) in NYC was mediocre the entire time I lived there and under Federated became more of a dump with the same sort of filth and H & M type merchandise at higher prices-and poor service now featured on State Street.
Will it change? I pray so, but don't know. Will I be at the September 13th rally? To quote that insufferable Sarah Palin: "You betcha!".
-David
Date: Tuesday, September 1, 2009 2:42 pm CT Date: Tuesday, September 1, 2009 7:08 am CT
As other people have stated: "Marshall Field's was so much more than just a store"!
P.S. "Violet" (in a recent post) speaks for so many of us. You said it so very well, Violet.
Date: Tuesday, September 1, 2009 5:39 am CT
Seems like there oughta be a law against pillaging a national treasure. Yes, national, not just Chicago. Grant Park is wonderful, but it is not Central Park (we all know where that is). The Art Institute is wonderful but it is not the Met (we all know where that is). Macy's is boring and it certainly is not Marshall Field (we all know where that IS-not where the other two are).
You have to wonder how the leadership can trot thru MF physically or mentally and not feel sick in the heart for what they have done, however deeply they repress it. Perhaps possession of the site is such a power trip for small minds, it short-circuits reason. It certainly looks like a case of biting off more than could be chewed.
Date: Monday, August 31, 2009 7:05 pm CT
I wandered into Carson's, and they were having a tremendous sale. I found a beautiful new purse on sale, and the friendly and helpful sales associate showed me a pretty wallet that would match, so I bought that too. As I walked past fine jewelry, the woman who had sold me a watch the week before recognized me and called out. I stopped to talk, and next thing I knew I had bought a small diamond necklace on sale. Next I passed through shoes. I didn't need any, but found a really cute pair. They weren't on sale, but what the heck.
By this time, my arms were getting tired, and I was looking around for hubby to help carry my haul. When I finally caught up with him, he was too laden with packages from the men's department to be much help: shoes, 3 shirts, and pants. While he lugged stuff to the car, I walked over to Von Maur, and they successfully charmed me out the rest of my cash. As we drove home, broke and tired, I realized that was honestly the first time I'd had fun shopping since Field's left.
Shopping at Field's was always a fun and special time, even for trivial daily purchases. Every penny we spent this weekend would, in the past, have been spent at Field's. I rarely if ever shopped at Carson's before, but now Carson's, L&T, Nordstrom, and VonMaur are taking the dollars I would have spent at Field's. In this rough economy, we are more careful what we spend, but I would surely make more discretionary purchases if Field's was restored in name and quality. Lundgren's loss, Carson's gain.
Date: Monday, August 31, 2009 12:15 am CT Date: Monday, August 31, 2009 11:31 am CT
I cannot believe how filthy the macy's State Street Store is. What an insult to the fine Marshall Field's name! I heard about the takeover while living in London.
I found out that the manager's name is Linda Piepho. She should be ashamed of herself. I invite you to call her office at 312.781-1000. Although she claims to be too busy to know what is happening in every part of the store, I do not understand how she could be too busy, since the store was practically empty of customers at noontime on Friday. So much of the filth is obvious to anyone. A manager is supposed to know what is going on.
I won't even get into the poor quality of merchandising and presentation now, since I was overwhelmed at the lack of good hygenic sanitation in the store.
Marshall Field's manager Dan Skoda, and even for that matter, Ralph Hughes kept every part of the store spotlessly clean, inside and out. The brass plaques are so tarnished. I remember when a gentleman got out there everyday to polish the plaques. He smiled and cheerfully greeted customers, while happily cleaning the plaques. Pride was everywhere even in the Target and May eras. It's so sad to see the neglect.
Date: Sunday, August 30, 2009 11:28 am CT Date: Saturday, August 29, 2009 5:32 pm CT Date: Saturday, August 29, 2009 3:42 pm CT Date: Friday, August 28, 2009 4:01 pm CT Date: Thursday, August 27, 2009 5:34 pm CT
September 2007:
"Macy's has made merchandise improvements such as introducing an exclusive Martha Stewart product line and is ``more focused on delivering improved customer service than we ever have been,'' said Jennifer McNamara, a Macy's spokeswoman."
So wrong on soooooo any levels
-To me, the Stewart merchandise at Macy's is about the same as Stewart merchandise sold at Kmart. Only the box colors - and prices - are diferent.
-Customer service has all but disappeared from Macy's. Remember how they close most Customer service desks in the stores? Massive layoffs and poor scheduling have left entire departments with no sales associates. During a recent visit to a Macy's store, I noticed only ONE salesperson for housewares, candy, luggage, and children's clothing - that would be more than half of the lower level.
-As for merchandise inmprovement: Alfarni line is looking even more poorly made than ever (if that is possible). Plus stores are noticible lower in merchandise selection than ever before. Lots of empty shelves and racks. I'e noticed that Macy's has again tried to fill space by loading the sales floor with boxes of merchandise. I just don't think that stacks George Foreman grills in the hosuewares aisle shows merchandise improvement, or "merchandise improvements"
Jimmy Gimbels goes to Macy's so YOU don't have to. See you all at Lord and Taylor!
Date: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 10:02 pm CT
Go to the Guinness World Records website to read more.
Date: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 3:29 pm CT
And boy, was I right! I then made a quick detour through the men's department. I felt like I was in some sort of twenty-year time warp with all of the boring, basic, cheap, tired- and hideous-looking clothes. And the prices? Management must be on the pipe if they think anyone would pay Marshall Field prices for Kmart quality clothing. (In fact, I've purchased better clothes at Kmart that I saw at Macy's -- although I use to make most all of my purchases at Field's). I counted a total of about 6 shoppers in the store, and vitually no one carrying Macy's shopping bags in the store or mall. And this was about three o'clock in the afternoon at a major regional mall.
Contrast that experience with Carson's. Better merchadise at great sale prices. Of course I did all of my shopping at Carson's. Who wouldn't? And being in Chicago, we have a plethora of store choices to patronize. Macy's could go belly up tomorrow, and I bet no one would notice or care much as opposed to the demise of Field's and the attendant uproar.
Quality, service, selection, and price don't seem to be in Macy's playbook. Other retailers get it -- Macy's certainly doesn't. It'll be one for the textbooks (on how not to run a major retail chain -- kind of like how GM lost its customer base by offering boring, low-quality cars). Macy's (and Bloomingdale's) will never get any of my retail dollars.
Date: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 12:33 pm CT
Why would any visitor to Chicago make a special effort to shop in a macy's in Chicago, when chances are they have one back home?? My amazement goes beyond Marshall Field's too. Why would any tourist in Florida make a special effort and get excited about seeing a macy's store in Miami, or any other regional department store that has been "macy-ified"??
It would be like making Kohl's, Sears, JCPenney, K-Mart or Target a "must-see" and "must-shop-at" while visiting Chicago! He is losing a tremendous potential number of people entering his stores by eliminating the local names which provided some kind of mystique to different cities, even if the merchandise was basically the same, except for some localization of merchandise. Things are tough enough in these harsh economic times without inadvertantly steering people away from your department stores and derailing the most in sales dollars. Every potential sales dollar in revenue should be sought in a good, well-managed business! Macy's does not seem to care, or is oblivious to good, logical business sense.
Date: Wednesday, August 26, 2009 12:24 am CT
P.S. Perhaps the Chicago family which recently bought the Chicago Cubs could also buy Marshall Field's! Talk about TWO Chicago icons!
Date: Tuesday, August 25, 2009 7:20 am CT
By the way, what is the brass plaque between the columns above Red Star's main entrance?
Date: Tuesday, August 25, 2009 1:00 pm CT
Dianne writes:
Every bit helps send the message that Chicago-indeed the world--wants Marshall Field's to return. The less you spend at Macy's and Bloomingdale's, the more they get the message. Spend at other Chicago-friendly businesses instead.
As far as Macy's management team ever bringing back Marshall Field's, the answer is that the current CEO, President and Chairman, Terry Lundgren, will not bring back Marshall Field's. Instead, we expect that there will be new owners or management who will listen to customers. This is not new, but something we have been stating for sometime. We collectively believe that a business plan that includes discarding a major valuable asset--the Marshall Field's flagship on State Street used in conjunction with the internationally renowned brand "Marshall Field's"--is not only unsustainable, but outright folly, especially in this economy.
When you look at brands and retail operations that are successful in this economy, you see that they are offering "must-have" merchandise and experiences that people can't resist in this economy.
Apple iPhones, MacBooks and the Apple store customer experience collectively is one such example. Marshall Field's is very similar. Chicago wants it and has to have it, even in this economy. It was gone and Chicago would go nuts if it came back.
A stone carver may strike a stone for 1,000 times with no seeming result; but on the 1,001th time, the stone cracks. We believe the same at FieldsFansChicago.org. We who support the return of Marshall Field's in name and spirit of quality and service believe it is inevitable that it will come back as long as we continue to speak out and remind the world of the case for Marshall Field's.
Finally, for all who cannot attend our annual September rally at State and Washington, please ask someone else to attend--and save posting your well-intended "regrets" for AFTER rather then before the rally so we can show that the turnout would have been even larger.
Date: Tuesday, August 25, 2009 12:55 pm CT
Instead, our city has allowed our greatest and best-known name in international fashion and design be carpet-bagged and replaced with a name that even New Yorkers know is not Marshall Field's equal--Macy's.
So now we are going to build a new fashion rep on a name synonymous with New York. Anything that is successful via Macy's here in Chicago will be credited to New York City; if it flops, people will say, "What do you expect? It's Chicago and the Midwest."
Chicago IS an International city in its own right, but we squander what is best about our city when we allow corporate raiders to take away international brands and institutions like Marshall Field's.
Our city needs to work to bring in a worthy steward who will restore Chicago's already known and most revered fashion name, Marshall Field's, and reinvent it again within the context of the 21st Century. Building our rep on NYC brand like Macy's is foolish.
Date: Tuesday, August 25, 2009 7:20 am CT Date: Tuesday, August 25, 2009 12:29 am CT
He said, "They (Marshall Field's supporters) will forget all about the boycott and Marshall Field's by Thanksgiving time. They will be crowding into macy's in Chicago. Nothing is changing. Everything will remain the same. We are not worried."
He didn't know Chicagoans very well, did he? Field's Fans have multiplied by the tends of thousands in the meantime and macy's just limps along in its inferior way.
Let's keep spreading the word about the boycott against macy's and bloomingdale's. It is working!
Date: Monday, August 24, 2009 9:19 pm CT
The Marshall Field spirit is alive and well! Please come---one and all! You'll meet new friends and walk away with a real sense of involvement. If you are bashful, don't let that stop you. Field's Fans will allow you to be yourself...and to feel welcome and do your thing! Marshall Field's is Chicago! Chicago is Marshall Field's!!
Date: Monday, August 24, 2009 7:48 pm CT
When I asked, the guy said that Macy's supplies everything in his shop! This store might as well be owned by macy's band are just hiding behind the "local concept" the way starbucks has recently with its 12th street coffee shops.
Date: Monday, August 24, 2009 5:11 pm CT
In my view the store itself and the history it embodies makes an important statement. While the services offered in later years were nothing to compare withe earlier services, such as special designs, and antique furniture restoration and upholstery, no doubt some of the things that set the store apart exist to this day.
I fully support your efforts and I extend my warmest wishes to all of you.
Date: Monday, August 24, 2009 4:51 pm CT Date: Monday, August 24, 2009 2:40 pm CT
-Speak the name: Marshall Field's...and people automatically think of Chicago!
-Speak the name: Chicago...and people automatically think of Marshall Field's!
They are inseparable.
http://hooeyspewer.blogspot.com/2007/11/macys-borg.html
Date: Monday, August 24, 2009 2:24 pm CT
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601109&sid=a8uH0p6qx4M8&refer=news
Here is one highlighted comment:
``It's a very unorthodox and major mistake to give the Marshall Field's name the death penalty in Chicago,'' said Burt Flickinger, managing director of New York-based consulting firm Strategic Resource Group.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
All these words plus more can be stated in September, 2009! Please join our rally in front of 111 North State to show your support! Be prepared with comments of your own for the press, if you wish.
Date: Monday, August 24, 2009 1:04 pm CT
http://weblogs.cltv.com/news/local/chicago/2007/11/macys_gives_up_but_maybe_it_should_get_out.html
Date: Monday, August 24, 2009 11:25 am CT
The furniture dept was deplorable and I was embarrassed that I had told a first time visitor about what gorgeous furniture could be had there. But then I was recalling what it was like when it was Field's.
I went to guest services and mentioned to the woman there that I missed MF and she showed me a little hard cover book about Fields that she said they use when they conduct tours of the store. She said it was out of print. I would have bought a copy if I could.
What surprised me was that they were selling T-shirts with the MF logo on them at guest services. Of all the nerve!
MF used to convey elegance--now as Macy's the store is nothing special--except for the gorgeous Tiffany ceiling.
My thoughts are with you all.
Date: Monday, August 24, 2009 9:48 am CT
It is a Great Big not special red star store-- just another red star store -- all be it - a BIG one.
Date: Monday, August 24, 2009 7:55 am CT Date: Monday, August 24, 2009 5:36 am CT
I grieve for the debasement the State St store has suffered, I really do.
Date: Sunday, August 23, 2009 8:05 pm CT
I agree that the head of Macy's is too stubborn and egotistical to bring back Field's. I wouldn't be surprised if he knew he made a mistake. After all, the stores are worth less as Macy's than they were as Field's.
I also think it's important that we continue in our efforts and not tire. Eventually, Macy's will be sold again and the new owners will want to unlock the value of Marshall Field's by bringing it back. We need to remined the world of that. We shall persevere. Our cause is noble.
Date: Sunday, August 23, 2009 3:50 pm CT
I look forward to September 13 at 1:00 p.m. on State Street, and am contacting my Field's-supporter friends and acquaintances. Even those who think Chicago is stuck with Messy's tell me, "It's NOT the same." The general attitude I hear reflects our survey--that a majority still prefer Field's. It would be great if Messy's and the media would wake up to the fact.
Date: Sunday, August 23, 2009 3:31 pm CT
"Rachel Rachel Roy Launches Exclusively at Macy's"
This is also mentioned in the "Tribune," along with several articles on "Glamorama" (with comment blogs).
"Rachel Roy collection debuting at Macy's"
And speaking of stars, try this from the "Sun-Times:"
"Miss Piggy's gettin' jiggy with wardrobe"
(Somehow I think Miss Piggy deserves better.)
Macysinc.com website also announces a quarterly dividend of 5 cents per share:
"Macy's, Inc. Board Declcares Quarterly Dividend"
Date: Sunday, August 23, 2009 12:01 pm CT Date: Saturday, August 22, 2009 8:55 pm CT
Strength is in numbers. The boycott is working! You can do your part wherever you live.
Marshall Field's needs us now...We need Marshall Field's now
..more than ever!
Thank you for your support to Marshall Field's.
Date: Saturday, August 22, 2009 8:25 pm CT
Date: Saturday, August 22, 2009 3:57 pm CT
I now live near Jacksonville, Illinois.
I have written Macy's and told them I will not do business at the Springfield store 35 miles from here, until they put Field's back in Chicago.
Date: Saturday, August 22, 2009 10:38 am CT
Comments such as those convinced me to take week-end, summer and holiday trips back to Chicago from campus for some real shopping and bring some of my friends with me! Now, we have graduated, but ~I often hear from my sorority sisters and classmates. They talk about how macy's has nothing they are interested in as young adults in business careers, and how they longed for their trips to Chicago to Field's with me as their travel and shopping guide. As one of them said last week from Atlanta where macy's had bought two local department stores, "Why would macy's EVER even consider changing Marshall Field's merchandising, service, gourmet food, FRANGOS, designer lines and name! It's easy to boycott macy's in Atlanta and all over! They have nothing I want and their lack of service is deplorable. Bring back Marshall Field's for us "20 and 30 somethings" and for our parents', grandparents' and friends' 40, 50, 60, 70, 80 and 90 somethings age groups! If Field's is not brought back, my generation and future generations will never be able to have Marshall Field's as our favorite destination. Field's was special. It's nice to have special things in our lives, especially in these times.
Date: Saturday, August 22, 2009 10:12 am CT Date: Saturday, August 22, 2009 1:02 am CT
Maybe we should have a Marshall Field's recipe potluck some time.
Date: Friday, August 21, 2009 10:23 pm CT Date: Friday, August 21, 2009 9:12 pm CT Date: Friday, August 21, 2009 9:01 pm CT Date: Friday, August 21, 2009 8:32 pm CT Date: Friday, August 21, 2009 7:01 pm CT Date: Friday, August 21, 2009 5:50 pm CT Date: Friday, August 21, 2009 4:27 pm CT Date: Friday, August 21, 2009 2:30 pm CT Date: Friday, August 21, 2009 1:58 pm CT
Yes, I will be there.
I just had to post so I could gush about Field's!
Date: Frida, August 21, 2009 1:45 pm CT Date: Thursday, August 20, 2009 9:41 pm CT Date: Thursday, August 20, 2009 6:34 pm CT
Both are very worthy charities, but the Art Institute had many ties to Marshall Field's.
Date: Wednesday, August 19, 2009 10:59 pm CT
One day we'll all see another sign on State Street... that will be the day we're all reveling in the streets.
Date: Wednesday, August 19, 2009 9:04 pm CT
The interview was on short notice as part of a 37-minute segment on the name change from the "Sears Tower" to "Willis Tower". About 24 minutes is devoted to the conversion of Marshall Field's to Macy's.
Chicagoist has a short story, along with photos and a link to the podcast. It can be found at
Date: Wednesday, August 19, 2009 9:00 pm CT Date: Wednesday, August 19, 2009 8:54 pm CT Date: Wednesday, August 19, 2009 6:53 pm CT
Great job, Mr Lunkhead! JC Penney and Kohl's realize that your stores aren't connecting with shoppers are are beating you up in your own back yard!
Date: Tuesday, August 18, 2009 9:08 pm CT Date: Tuesday, August 18, 2009 5:32 pm CT Date: Tuesday, August 18, 2009 12:06 pm CT
Thanks so much and long live Field's!
Date: Monday, August 17, 2009 7:06 pm CT Date: Sunday, August 16, 2009 6:32 pm CT
My comment is in reply to S.B.'s previous post which I have pasted as follows:
Date: Friday, July 31, 2009 10:35 pm CT
Posted by: S.B.
Only an idiot who destroyed the "ultimate department store Marshall Field's" would ever say something like this --
"It's kind of like comparing apples and monkeys -- not even oranges," Mr. Lundgren says of the comparison of his company to JC Penney.
Wall Street Journal
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Funny thing...when I first read Mr. Lundgren's quote, I immediately thought of macy's as being the monkey and JCPenney's as being the red shiny apples because of all the "monkeying" around he did to Field's in transforming it into a discount store and downgrading it to a lower-class store in atmosphere, lack of service and much lower merchandise quality.
-Alexis
Date: Sunday, August 16, 2009 2:01 pm CT
Several "Tribune" articles mention Messy's second quarter results. One that I think takes the cake, though, is an interview with Karen Hoguet about their localization research. She claims more women want size 11 shoes. And that's ALL the article has to say!
"Macy's CFO Karen Hoguet discusses ideas generated as it tailors merchandise to local markets"
This article is in the "Sun-Times" too:
"Macy's sees demand for size 11 women's shoes"
Date: Sunday, August 16, 2009 1:20 pm CT
"Macy's, Inc. Second Quarter Earnings, Cash Flow Exceeds Expectations"
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1319918&highlight=
Messy's again prides itself on number-crunching, while glossing over lower sales and citing the economy as an excuse. It remains in survival mode.
According to the report, "We were able to exceed our expectations with strong earnings and cash flow in the second quarter, despite lower sales in an economic environment that continues to be very difficult," said Terry J. Lundgren, Macy's, Inc. chairman, president and chief executive officer.
If that's the case, however, why aren't shoppers saying, "I can hardly wait for the economy to get better so I can head over to Macy's!" What I keep hearing is, "I like your button--Macy's just isn't the same [as Field's]!"
And why did a majority of people answering the Field's Fans survey say they prefer Field's to Macy's?
And I am hearing enthusiasm about the Field's Fans' event planned for September 13, 2009, more than for the idea of having to shop at Messy's.
Date: Sunday, August 16, 2009 10:58 am CT
Next I went to the information desk by the fountain on the first floor, and asked if Messy's is doing anything to commemorate Daniel Burhham for the 100th anniversary of his "Plan for Chicago" (since the rest of the City is doing it and the State Street store IS a lovely Burnham building). The person at the desk said not to her knowledge and it was really a shame. She gave me a flier from the general City tourism stuff they have that mentioned Burnham, and said that was the only thing she knew of that Macy's had to offer in connection with the Burnham commemorations.
Macy's IS highligthing Glamorama with very RED, young and trendy windows. Green stain still adorn the Burnham building facade, and the the floor tiles are still cracked.
Date: Sunday, August 16, 2009 12:28 am CT
Are you longing for a Marshall Field's Chicken Salad Sandwich as much as I am? Well, then, here is a recipe for you to enjoy without breaking our boycott of macy's until the return of Marshall Field's. Besides, would you want to risk tasting a cheapened ingredient chicken salad by macy's or the risk of contamination from fruit flies? (Remember how the Chicago Department of Health closed macy's lower level restaurants when large amounts of fruit flies were reported and detected two years ago?)
Enjoy!
http://www.wiblovia.com/kibology/cookbook/recipes/Marshall_Fields_Chicken_Salad_Sandwich.html
Date: Saturday, August 15, 2009 11:35 am CT
Date: Saturday, August 15, 2009 12:48 am CT
Awe inspiring and grand exhibits,culinary delights and sophisticated sensuality blended cozily with everyday comfort and practicality.
Family traditions came to include Field's. Thanksgiving shopping at Field's was a basic..spring luncheons in the Tea Room, the Gigantic Christmas tree was a must see at Christmas time.....
I too do not want a "new trinket" if it means throwing out a treasured old jewel.
I think maybe the corporate decision makers should educate themselves regarding the difference between tarnish and a warm patina.
Date: Friday, August 14, 2009 1:29 pm CT
Financial period after financial period since 2006, he has used the excuse of "consolidation costs" draining macy's finances. If he would have kept the stores as they were, there would be no "consolidation", therefore no continuing, consolidating costs!
Date: Friday, August 14, 2009 10:50 am CT Date: Friday, August 14, 2009 9:43 am CT
You want to know what the best "localization" plan would be, Ms. Hoguet?? Bring back Marshall Field's in all its glory---fine quality and extensive merchandise selection, fine service, comfortable elegant ambiance, all its quality throughout, and unique departments and large selection, and of course, the Marshall Field's name! How difficult is it to realize what the best localization is? Your financial picture would be enormously better, let me tell you.
The Marshall Field's grass-roots movement is getting larger and larger, and stronger and stronger. We are not going away!
Keep boycotting macy's and bloomingdale's! It's working, good people!
Date: Friday, August 14, 2009 12:09 am CT
There is a "Macy's Presidential Complaints" site and forum.
Supposedly "Melissa", Assistant to President Lundgren, fields comments at a telephone number that is contained in the following link.
There have been 4,503 viewing hits so far on the blogsite.
Sounds like a perfect invitation to each and every one of us to submit comments by phone and email. (Be sure to scroll all the way down to read the comments on the blogsite.)
Here is one of the very best comments, from "rdldr1", that anyone could possibly come up with, as follows:
rdldr1
4:39 AM on Tue Jul 22 2008 Im gonna call and ask if Marshall Fields is there. When they say "no," I'm going to ask when is he coming back?
"Melissa" is apparently as far as macy's goes to be a "Town Hall Forum" for grass roots persons to air their feelings.
Date: Thursday, August 13, 2009 10:47 pm CT
"macy-ification" and downgrading of the Marshall Field & Company Building hold true even more in 2009...
"While it's true that Marshall Field's on State Street was once a magnificent and unique Chicago shopping experience, this sadly is no longer the case. Macy's has given Chicago's most famous store a distinctively discount feel. Where Marshall Field's once represented Chicago as does Bergdorf Goodman in New York and Harrod's in London, Macy's want customers to know it serves America. Macy's is part of a 800 store chain that competes with Target, Kohl's and Wal-Mart. Although the building is still quite amazing to see, it's now full of a generic assortment of private label brands, other merchandise heavy on the low-end or entry level collections from outside designers, tacky displays, self-service price scanner and shopping carts. The grandeur, quality and service of Marshall Field's has left the building. - Sarah, 03/28/2007"
Please read more comments at:
Do you understand, Mr. Terry Lundgren, Pres/CEO & Chairman of macy's inc? Do you understand, Ms. Linda Piepho, manager of the once-elegant and world-famous State Street Store? Do you understand, members of macy's board of directors? Do you understand. macy's shareholders?
Date: Thursday, August 13, 2009 9:18 pm CT
Just thought I would fill you in on something that I found very interesting as I went to the movies a weeks ago.
My wife and I went to see "The Ugly Truth" and before the movie they were showing previews.
The first one was for the new movie "The Time Travlers Wife", which takes place in Chicago.
In the opening scenes of the preview you see the main character as a child running through the woods with something truly magical in her hand.
A beautiful, Green, Marshall Field's Shopping bag!!!!!!!!!
As soon as I saw this I got chills and started to miss Field's so much. I am definatly going to see this movie and this also tells me that the people in Hollywood understand the value of Marshall Field's as much as we do!
I totally reccomend seeing this movie.
Marshall Field's will never die!
Date: Wednesday, August 12, 2009 6:30 pm CT Date: Wednesday, August 12, 2009 5:43 pm CT
I see the M-store is still taking restructuring charges (related to divisional consolidations and localization initiatives)...now $34M! We need to add up all these charges...should be past $100M by now plus the loss of "good will"
Macy;s is also trying to bury this little fact: "For the year to date, Macy's, Inc.'s sales totaled $10.363 billion, down 9.6 percent from total sales of $11.465 billion in the first 26 weeks of 2008. On a same-store basis, Macy's, Inc.'s year-to-date sales were down 9.3 percent."
Date: Wednesday, August 12, 2009 12:01 pm CT Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2009 2:49 pm CT
L. Grand
Grand Rapids, MI
Date: Tuesday, August 11, 2009 7:29 pm CT
Field's could have been the high point and savior, if he had not changed everything that was going smoothly at Field's---the fine service, ambiance, merchandise selection and high quality, varied departments, and name. The drop in sales revenue could have been a whole lot less for macy's inc. People shopped at Field's in good times and bad economic times. Field's was a distinctive international destination and was throughly Chicago at its best !
Date: Monday, August 10, 2009 7:37 pm CT
Layoffs, store closings, reductions in merchandise selections are only stopgap measures to delay the inevitable. Sales are down because macy*mart has failed to connect with customers through its arrogance, hubris and disrespect for communities across the nation.
The upcoming Back to School and holiday shopping seasons should be very "exciting" as King Lunkhead cuts back on staff and fills the stores with his "exclusive" house brand merchandise.
Date: Monday, August 10, 2009 5:39 pm CT
e-v-e-r-y-t-h-i-n-g the same. Well, everything has changed, for the worse. I wonder what Mrs. Daley thinks?
I've heard so many people say that they would make frequent special trips into downtown Chicago from the suburbs or from out-of-state JUST to spend a day shopping at Field's. I'm told there is a store manager, but she obviously does NOT play an active role in ensuring the store is maintained well, kept clean, the display windows interesting and professional, the restrooms clean, elevators and escalators kept operating, floor tiles repaired professionally, and the brass plaques kept shining, and nice appealing music playing, as it all was before macy's took over. The merchandise displays look better at K-Mart in many cases, plus K-Mart stores are cleaner than macy's on State, officially known as the legendary, famous amd historic Marshall Field & Co. Building.
I want my Marshall Field's back...now!
Date: Sunday, August 9, 2009 9:25 pm CT Date: Sunday, August 9, 2009 4:04 pm CT
So Chicago!
macy's---as bland and boring as it gets.
so everywhere.
Date: Sunday, August 9, 2009 2:02 pm CT
"Q2 2009 Macy's, Inc., Earnings Conference Call"
I can hardly wait--wonder if we will learn anything new.
BTW--I still get the same reaction to our buttons, "Oh, you want your Marshall Field's too!"
Date: Saturday, August 8, 2009 11:03 am CT
Not long after the My Macy's thing took root, the State Street store's website showed a new vigor. There were all sorts of events posted; wine tastings, trunk shows, etc. Not any more; About three months ago, events stopped being announced and only recently was anything new added to the site, namely Glamorama and some Izod event. The other events listed were at Woodfield or national. So much for a rather short lived focus on a once great store.
Emeril Lagasse has been added to the Field's Culinary Council. What a surprise! For those of you that don't know, Martha Stewart Living bought the Emeril product brand (not restaurants) last year, so this is a natural fit for future product launches at the red star.
Martha Stewart's Robin Marino had some interesting comments during their second quarter earnings call. Here's a few of the highlights from an article in Home Textiles Today:
"As the second anniversary of the Martha Stewart Collection at Macy's approaches, Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia still isn't providing hard numbers about the exclusive program's revenue and profit contributions to its merchandising portfolio"
"Continues to be a top performer at Macy's"
"Is the number one bridal registery brand at Macy's"
"Merchandising revenue DROPPED 45% to 9 million this year from 16.2 million last year in the second quarter"
"Our merchandising performance in the quarter reflected a number of factors, including lower royalties from Kmart, which was expected, as our relationship winds down"
OK, so let's think about this. No numbers? Of course not; it's the Macy's way. Number one Bridal brand? Macy's has been eliminating Bridal registery in all but it's largest stores, so I guess when only a few stores offer this service, it's pretty easy for it to be #1. How about that drop in revenue? Sure retail is in the tank and Martha and the big K are parting ways, but if Macy's Martha stuff is such a great performer at Macy's, how can it's merchandise performance be down 45%? Obviously, Macy's great product line up (at much higher prices and margins than Kmart) can't make up for revenue from Kmart, if it did revenue should be up, slightly down or flat, BUT not down 45%!!!
She then went on to say what a great job WalMart and Michaels are doing with craft items, seasonal etc. So that 9 mil for the quarter included Kmart, Macy's Wal Mart, Michaels and independent retailers. So let's see; Macy's was only one of several retailers generating that 9 mil and Macy's has 800 stores, so how much did each Macy's store do in Martha stuff in the Bridal heavy second quarter? In my opinion: NOT MUCH!!! Way to flop!
Date: Saturday, August 8, 2009 9:38 am CT
I wonder how smart it is to dismantle a treasured traditionC3for example, like the downtown first floor, undoubtedly in the name of appealing to 'youth.' (I refer to when the mahogany cases were removed long before the current desecrations.) Quality and elegance have a transcendent appeal when allowed to outlive their trendy period. The tradition represented by that layout was a spectacular one even if someone born in 1846 figured it out. As a youth I loved it. As a visual arts person I loved it. As a romantic, I loved it. There is a lot of old stuff on the planet, worth loving and stewarding.
When something is really great, it is great for a loooooonnnnngggg time because it resonates with a deep part of our human nature that is beyond moods of a moment. When something is merely trendyC3inherently attractive to 'youth' C3it is trendy for minutes, and the youths to whom it appeals have short attention spans and no loyalty. Duh.
It may be that Americans are Peter and Polly Pan. Certainly most commercial interests push the notion that maturing is an evil and avoidable mistake; we have come to accept that idea as a given. I am not impressed by arguments that I should be happy to see 'new' dominate simply because old is bad. I love New as much as the next.... but not when it is a new trinket pushed at me in substitution for an old jewel.
Date: Friday, August 7, 2009 8:39 pm CT
really -- comparing apples and monkeys -- Lundgren is SO insulting -- PENNEY'S are the apples and red star are the monkeys!!!!!!
Penneys is GREAT!!!!
Also JIM IS SO RIGHT AND SO SPOT ON -- really Think about Chicago with out ever having had Field's
Museum of Natural History --Aquarium -- Pleasing and Endearing Millions of tourists for MORE than 150 years and providing a "feel good" memory of our beloved Chicago-- ALL of Chicagoans memories of Field's for decades-- instrumental in fashioning State Street in its' hey day- insrumental in Fashion period! The Glamorama--The Jingle Elf Parade --Uncle Mistletoe-- TOO MUCH
Think of the loss IF Field's never was !!
Also -- I just returned tonight from business traveling and I investigated yet another red star for Frango's--This store -- a Large store in Northwestern PA
Any Frangos-- None now- questioning any for the Holidays?--Sales associate had no idea.
Date: Friday, August 7, 2009 5:07 pm CT
Memo to Mr Lunkhead: It hasn't worked the past few years,
Posted by: Joanne in Southern Indiana
Posted by: Hello
Please keep me posted! I'm up for the cause!! I love Marshall Fields!!!
Posted by:
WDCB will have a story on Field's Fans tomorrow morning, Monday during the news. FM 90.9 in the western suburbs, College of DuPage radio.
Posted by: John D.
On this third year observance of the hostile takeover of Marshall Field's by macy's...
Posted by: Mike M
It was great to see everyone at the rally today. What a great group of people!
Posted by: Dianne Shanley
I am sorry that I missed the rally today, September 13 since I was at the first and second ones. I live most of the time down in Florida and have returned there early this year. It is hard to maintain the boycott since the Macy's and Bloomingdale's stores are very convenient to both my residences however, I have done so and will continue to do so.
Posted by: drew
Good wishes for great weather and a huge crowd for Sunday's rally. Here's something that may be a good sign for the cause.
Posted by: Susan
Gung ho!
Posted by: Peter
See you out on State Street tomorrow afternoon.
Posted by: Marie Kohler
My neighbor saw me wearing my Marshall Field's pin. I have to admit that I forgot that I had it on.
Posted by: Andrew
Best wishes for tomorrow's meeting on State Street.
Posted by: Daniel Spivak
I happen to be a psychologist and also hold an MBA, something that Pres/CEO/Chairman Terry Lundgren does not have, by the way. He holds only a bachelor's degree, with no advanced business degree. Does that explain some things that have gone on at macy's perhaps, especially without any checks-and-balances in poor decision-making?
Posted by: Jim McKay
Thanks to all who helped make leafleting a success on State Street this evening, especially "gle" and "Al".
Posted by: G.
The Tribune article has moved to its own link and was even indexed in the business category on ChicagoTribune.com.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-biz-macys-marshall-field-chicago-sep11,0,6110175.story
Posted by: Gayle
Hi all,
Posted by: Ronald
I was in Houston for vacation and we went to the mall at Houston where have a MACY'S but I did not buy anything from that place! because it remind of MACY'S in Chicago and I still mad for change the name so I went to Dillard's that remind me of Marshall Field's in Chicago for a better store than MACY'S who lost my business in Chicago and Houston forever!
Posted by: JamesFromCa
I thought people would enjoy this short film about Chicago in 1948. They mention Field's.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZaMGqzkNwLY
Just in case the link doesn't work it's called Traveltalks-1948 Chicago the Beautiful.
Posted by:
Today's Chiago Tribune has a short story on FieldsFansChicago and this Sunday's rally. There is also a decent size photo of last year's rally. This is on the third page of the Business section in the home delivered version.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-fri-notebook-retail-sep11,0,7278284.story
The photo does not appear, but there is a place to offer comments. It's imperative that you post, even if you have to get a login. One comment is pretty off, talking about how
Field's is now owned by Canadians. So set the record straight--and be sure to include FieldsFansChicago.org in your post so that we get a link up for our rally info.
Posted by: G.W.
Expert Todd Wenninge discusses Macy's heavy leverage in his 9/9/09 article, "The Worst Stocks to Buy Today".
http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2009/09/09/the-worst-stocks-to-buy-today.aspx?source=isesitlnk0000001&mrr=1.00
Posted by: Rich
To the rally and the Great, Once and Future Marshall Field's.
Posted by: gle
I'm so happy Field's Fans were able to hand out leaflets at the big Oprah event! And great to hear so many in that crowd were interested--it says a lot. Marshall Field's SHOULD still be a desination for people who love to attend events such as this, and hopefully the 2016 olympics.
Posted by: Zelda
Walking through the State Street store is a lot like visiting a former home that is now delapidated; yet there's enough of the ambience of the old place to refresh your memories. The architecture is still there, and the beautiful stained glass. One has to try and overlook the duct tape on the marble floor. (Did they think that white duct tape, rather than blue or brown, would be less noticeable? Puh-leeze!) The beautiful nostalgic memories are at constant war with the horrid displays (really! men's underwear the first thing many people see on entering the store!), the shoddy housekeeping (cracks, dust and duct tape), and the sad sales associates in black uniforms standing around talking to each other. We must, we must, we must get our wonderful icon back.
Posted by:
Wow! The print and paid on-line version of the New Yorker article is much more extensive than the abstract below in commenting about Marshall Field's and what it meant to Chicago!
Posted by: D.
Sunday it is!
Posted by: Jim
Crain's has an article about the impact Oprah had on Michigan Avenue business yesterday. I made a comment on how it also served as an ideal setting for spreading the word about our Sunday rally, as well as how events like Oprah, the 2016 Olympics and the return of Field's can boost Chicago's image as an international city.
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/cgi-bin/news.pl?id=35389
Posted by: Judy Marth
Well, another shopping adventure this weekend reminded me even more how much I miss MARSHALL FIELD'S! We were shopping for furniture. Remember the big showroom Field's had just west of Woodfield? We would have been there if was still Field's. Obviously, we had to pass right by because of the current name on the building.
Posted by: Jon C.
I see that the Chicago Reader has an item about our rally on Sunday, September 13 at 1:00.
http://www.chicagoreader.com/chicago/EventSearch?narrowByDate=2009-09-13&eventSection=116961
P.S.
Posted by: David & Al
Page 48 of the newest "New Yorker" (dated September 14, 2009) has a fitting nod to Chicago and the sadness Chicago feels over the loss of Marshall Field's.
http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2009/09/14/090914fa_fact_marx
Here's to the once and future Marshall Field's!
Posted by: Jim
Thanks to Joe and "g" for their special work on Michigan Avenue at today's Oprah taping.
Posted by: Lisa
Macy's should never got rid of Marshall Field's. I will not shop there because ofthat.
Posted by: gle
The Edgewater Historical Musuem newsletter has info about the Field's rally this Sunday.
Posted by: Mary Ann
One thing I really miss about Field's is the fanastic windows whicch are quite common now. They now read like magazine ads with little "dimension" to them.
Posted by: Former Employee of Marshall Field's (YAY!) then macy*s (YUCK)
Drew mentioned that macy*s "charitable" Thanks for Sharing coupons are sold for $25, but only $10 actually goes to the charity. This is absolutely correct, and I know "where" the other $15 goes: "right into macy*s pocket, of course!" (direct quote from dept. manager). As is macy*s way, an "explanation" is given: the $15 is for "administrative fees." So there you have it. macy*s sucks.
Posted by: Pete
I like the posts about how Field's is like Apple stores. Great service and something I'm willing to spend money on because the product and service is so good.
Posted by: Sara, Houston
I am from Chicago and miss Marshall Field's. We always came to shop.
Posted by: Jim McKay
Joe will supervise distribution of our special leaflets near the Ohio and Michigan entrace to the Oprah show.
Posted by: Phillip Eichler
Great post today on retail worker. There's a thread about staff downsizing and one poster who works in a former Hudson's store always has something great to say.
http://www.retail-worker.com/forum/about11456.html
Scroll down to thepost by hudsmarshmacys and see their overview why Macy's doesn't like veteran employees.
Posted by: Matt
According to WikiAnswers!
Posted by: Jim McKay
We have special leaflets for the rally. We will be distributing these on State Street and elsewhere this week. On Tuesday, we are looking at possibly passing these out at the gates to the special Oprah taping on The Magnificent Mile at the Ohio Street entrance. More details tomorrow.
http://www.fieldsfanschicago.org/ffc090609leaflet.pdf
Posted by: Maryanne
Especially when I go down the escalator to the lower level floor of the flagship on State Street, I feel like I am entering a Target and not a Marshall Field's or any decent department store.
Posted by: Pete
Looking forward to attending the rally next weekend. Let's pray for good weather.
Posted by: mds
Drew,
Posted by: Patrick I.
I appreciate your efforts, as do tons of other people whom I know. There must be more than 200 people, where I work in the financial district, who wear "Field's Forever" pins!
Posted by: Marlene Z
I have run across quite a few middle-aged to older people who say they want to come to the rally on September 13th at 1:00 p.m., however they would feel more comfortable driving in or riding into downtown Chicago with someone who has participated in previous rallies to help them feel more comfortable with introductions.
Posted by: John D.
Who do you think is the Worst CEO, Field's Fans?
http://www.cnbc.com/id/31174332
You may also suggest a CEO for the next election by emailing:
madmoney@cnbc.com
Please consider exercising your right to vote.
Posted by: Linda R.
I'm believe "Jessica" may have been the one with whom I spoke when I called the President Lundgren's office at Macy's Headquarters. ("Mellisa" was not available.)
Posted by: Leslie Goddard
Seeking Your Marshall FieldC-s Memories!
Posted by: drew
Here's an interesting comparison between how two major retailers support community charities.
Posted by: gle
I am happy to see so many new as well as the familiar names appearing on this website. I always enjoy reading the posts in favor of Chicago's beloved Marshall Field's.
Posted by: drew
August sales at the Red Star are WORSE than expected and year to date sales have tanked:
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Macys-Inc-SameStore-Sales-bw-3974456128.html?x=0&.v=1
Evidently the crucial "Back to School" sales were a big disappointment. How surprising Mr Lunkhead's prized teen demographic didn't rush into the Red Star and stock up on the "exclusive" Tommy Hilfiger fashions--after all, their parents highly supported the brand back in the 1980s. Kids want to dress like their peers; perhaps the teen fashion trend setters aren't into overpriced, discount store quality Alfani or American Ragz clothing.
Posted by: Martha M
http://marketplace.publicradio.org/display/web/2008/11/24/pm_corner_office_lundgren_1/
I believe that Jessica L." works for Terry Lundgren. On that basis, I have to excuse her comments after the article that Mr. Lundren "is a brilliant CEO" and that she hates to see the negativity he receives. Her last remark that Terry Lundgren's "business decisions are made with the people in mind" is laughable.
Posted by: L. Grand
Bad News: macy's dares to project itself as the incumbent residents and innovators of the State Street store as one poster mentioned. The video is narrated by someone with less than a professional tone as well (no surprise there). The GOOD NEWS is that, according to macy's own video, CAMERAS ARE ALLOWED IN THE STORE! THIS WOULD BE AN OPPORTUNE TIME TO TAKE PICTURES OF THE NEGLECT (duct taped floors, broken door handles, broken escalators, tarnished plaques, clocks with the wrong time showing, and any other macy's funkification).
Posted by: David
It's such a pleasure to check out this site and find so many new names posting with fresh perspectives that echo that which I and others familiar to this site have been sharing (and grieving) since Marshall Field's demise in 2006.
Posted by: Jane Karen Phillips
ure am glad I'm not the only one that misses Field's! Our family history goes waaay back with the Field's name. My grandfather, Norbert Fleischer, owned the Congress Paper Box Company and one of his accounts was Marshall Field's. In fact, he designed the first Frango Mint box. We had one of those boxes safely put away in my grandmother's hutch cabinet. Until she moved in with my mother. Then, somehow, it got lost in the move. BUMMER. I do still have a photo of my grandfather's office and there are several Field's boxes in a showcase in front of his desk. So, at least we have that! Gram would take us to the Walnut Room at Christmas and my brother remembers going to see Aunt Holly and Uncle Mistletoe. Wonderful memories! Yes, I sure wish Field's was still around. That was a 5 star--no, make that 10 star---store!!!
Posted by: Garth
Chicago used to be distinctively different from other American cities. It had its own personality and attractiveness because of the institutions formed by the Field family. Now with the loss of Marshall Field's, it's just like "Any City USA". Marshall Field's brought people to Chicago because it was special and unique in so many ways. Internationally, Marshall Field's had a reputation for high fashion flair. Macy's is just a mass-merchandising retailer of cheaply made house brands.
Posted by: Susan
Hah! It occurred to me- do you suppose the Macyfolk said to themselves around the board table a few years ago, "It'll be like taking candy from a baby!- Watch them squeal!"? If so, it worked. They got the candy away from us and we're squealing. But one has to ask why they would take the candy away when the candy was the point- it made money!!
Posted by: gayle
What a weekend I had! I haven't much enjoyed shopping since the Only Store That Really Mattered was desecrated. However, I was desperately in need of a new purse. I can barely stand to go near Oak Brook now, so I headed over to Yorktown instead.
Posted by: Violet
There never has been, nor ever will be a department store as complete, truly exciting, and pleasant-uplifting to shop in than Marshall Field's! I miss it so much. I think it's terrible how Mr. Lundgren destroyed a national and international icon. I've always considered myself a polite lady, and never have wished ill on anyone in my life, but I pray to God he goes to H*ll when his life has ended. Certainly Chicago will not be grieving, but rejoicing. Maybe if not by then, Chicago will have its Marshall Field's back. I can't wait much longer. I'm 87!
Posted by: Wil
I have moved back to Chicago and now I am wearing your Marshall Field's pins every day. I commend all of you for what you are doing to being back Field's.
Posted by: Pat
My husband found your site- he knows how much I miss my Marshall Fields. I grew up in Chicago and many of my best childhood memories are of shopping with my mother at Marshall Fields. I won't shop at the Macy's here in Kansas City because I am still angry at them for changing the name, not to mention all the service that went with that name! If
Posted by: RJ in Michigan
My wife and two girls already planned to be in Chicago on the 13th and now we will also be at the rally on State. We miss Hudson's here too, but Marshall Field's was the golden ring.
Posted by: R T, Naperville
Hi, I am so excited that you are working to restore Marshall Fields back to State Street! I have personally hated this change since it's arrival! Thank you for your efforts to preserve this icon.
Posted by: gle
There is an exhibit on Chicago architect, Daniel Burnham on the 3rd floor of the Harold Washington Library downtown. Along with a nice assortment of photos, documents, etc. has a short video that mentions Macy's on State, the former Marshall Field's flagship store, as one of Burnham's creations. It also mentions involvement of Marshall Field I in the implementation of Burnham's 1909 "Plan of Chicago." Anyone interested in learning about Burhham, and seeing more evidence that Marshall Field's has always been more than just a store, might want to view this exhibit. Messy's hasn't bothered to commemorate its landmark Burnham building anyplace in the State Street store that I can find. And when I asked at the first-floor information desk, all the person knew was to hand me a flyer on the Burnham centenniel from her pile of general tourist information.
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels
From the Macy's way back machine:
Posted by: Gabriel Madrid
The Macy's Herald Square store is now officially no longer the world's largest store according to the Guinness Book of World Records. A brand new store in Busan, South Korea called the "Shinsengae Centumcity Department Store" is now recognized as the new largest store in the world at 3,163,567 square feet. This beats the RH Macy and Company Store of New York by at least a million square feet. The South Koreans have now outdone Macy's. I wonder when and if ever the "Macy's World's Largest Store" sign will be changed or taken down. It has been there in many incarnations since 1924.
Posted by: Craig S
Recently I made a visit to a retailer located next to Macy's at a Chicagoland regional mall mid-week. I parked in front of Macy's -- not a problem -- and walked through the store to get inside the mall. What struck me while I stolled down the center aisle of the store was all of the fugly merchandise on display. Naturally a retailer would want to display their best merchandise along the aisles to draw customers further into the store. I thought to myself, "If this is the best that Macy's has to offer as far as the eye can quickly see, bet the rest is just pure fugliness."
Posted by: Andrew
Mr. Lundgren's logic and reasoning just does not make sense.
Posted by: Nick and Brenda J.
If Marshall Field's were to return as a result of a new steward buying and respecting the name, culture, service and merchandising, there would be REAL EXCITEMENT and "real dancing in the streets"! Marshall Field's would be packed to the walls from then on, regardless of the economy. Let us tell you---there would be so much excitement if Field's were to be brought back in all its aspects that made it a retail and cultural icon and world-class destination! Bring back Field's now! People from all over creation would be flocking to Chicago to spend a day at Field's and to visit museums, dine at restaurants and stay at Chicago's hotels. What a boom to the Chicago economy---a real Stimulus! Marshall Field's, you are Chicago!
Posted by: drew
What an "exciting" and informative video!
http://www.visitmacyschicago.com/visitors/video.cfm?type=historical
Most people wouldn't realize that the Red Star has had such a long and distinguished history in Chicago. Especially impressive is the unique architecture of the Red Star building which they specifically designed and maintained. No doubt tourists will want to view the "archive of macy*s history" to fully appreciate the many contributions the Red Star has made to Chicago's history in "over 150 years" of retailing excellence.
Posted by: Jim McKay
From Facebook:
Just wanted to let you know that I am still honoring the boycott and have not bought anything at either Macy's or Bloomingdale's since September 2006. I just wonder though when I see shoppers with Macy's bags if the management of Macy's realizes that hundreds and maybe thousands of people are boycotting their store since people, probably a lot of them tourists, still continue to buy things there. Do we have any concrete evidence that the Macy's management team is ever going to give us back our beloved store?
Response:
Posted by: Jim McKay
Crains Chicago Business has a feature on efforts to invigorate Chicago's fashion industry.
Please add your own comments if you have a Crains login -- or at least recommend the comments that you agree with. And remember--whenver you post at Crain's, you can click the vote to recommend your own post.
http://www.chicagobusiness.com/cgi-bin/mag/article.pl?article_id=32320&seenIt=1
I have responded:
There's been one Chicago name that has had enormous international cachet in the fashion industry for generations and was by far its best known. Marshall Field's was the fashion name associated world-wide with our city and for years it was synonymous with Chicago at its best. To be sure, in recent years, new owners of Field's didn't do the brand justice, but a worthy steward could easily bring back to the forefront both the brand and Chicago .
Posted by: Tammy
Thank you for all your efforts.
Posted by: Janice D.
Remember the macy official's incorrect prediction in September of 2006 when macy's hostile take-over of Field's happened?
Posted by: Sharon Evans
I have attended previous Field's rallies. Looking forward to this one. After each previous event, I was glad I took the time to go. Amongst the anguish at seeing macy's black as a back-drop behind us, we do share laughs with one another along the way. You meet some of the nicest people in the world at "111 North State" for our cause. They were, afterall, loyal Marshall Field's shoppers! The common bond we shared was heart-warming and continues still.
Posted by: Brian
For those of you who do live in Chicago the city. There is a little shop on the ground floor of the dakota building which is called "Liquidations Direct". It seemed as if almost every single item on the racks had a macy's clearance tag on it, or a macys return sticker.
Posted by: JMG
I was in Chicago for a week for a convention and visited the store, much to my amazement I found they were selling some Frango that was still being packaged with a Marshall Fields logo on it . . . While I was there I encountered a gentleman that has been there since I first started going to Chicago in 1972 as a kid.
Posted by: Ethan
I'm 31, and I have loved Marshall Field's my entire life since age 4. Among many things I loved about Marshall Field's was the cross-generational interaction among customers and employees. It always amazed me how I could be shopping alongside an 82-year old lady, and a young mother at another counter who was with a young child, and a 50-something as well, and a teen-ager closeby. I also liked the wide variety of ages among sales associates, all of whom were knowledgable and practiced the Field's culture of fine service and salesmanship and neighborly human being. People of all ages exchanged pleasantriesin the classy, but comfortable surrounding. I always found the deep forest green color to be soothing, classy and sophisticated. There are so many things I miss about Field's, but I am still in wonderment about how it was the place where people of all possible ages interacted in varying degrees. You don't find environments offering something like that any more. Field's was special to everybody! It was more than just a store, Mr. Lundgren---a whole lot more!
Posted by: Jan
People will always love Marshall Field's!
Posted by: Jon C.
A few remarks by retail experts and by Field's Fans in September 2007...
Posted by: Robert N.
How true...still!
Posted by: PC
I was visiting Chicago last week and went into MF on State and was so disappointed at how bleak and ordinary it seemed.
Posted by: Rich
The red star store at 34th street in Manhatten has ALL the same boring crappy merchandise that all the other red star stores have -- The 34th street store has a COMPLETE selection-- ie ALL possible choices produced for "INC" "Alfani" "Style & Co." etc, etc --- of ALL the brands of red star and LOTS of it. That store has all the "bridge" lines that red star carries too
Posted by: Mike W, NE Indiana
I too miss our local Marshall Field's. I seldom shop at Macy's here. I definitely miss the State Street store. It's no longer a stopping point when i visit Chicago!
Posted by: Susan G.
There is something about Field's- it seems, at least to my prejudice, to be where high and some low come together and have a common experience of unique wonderfulness like in a giant toy shop- it goes beyond appreciating the abstractions of High Art. Which would make a lot of High Art folks sniff. But it is so. Is it about being a Temple of Commerce? Sure. Does it replace religion? No. But it seems to be one of the few places where humans have managed to pull off an enterprise really well, top notch. So it is (was) a precious bit of humans scintillating for a few minutes. I keep coming to view it on a quasi-religious level because I think it comes down to that, that is what gave it its power. Lacking that- you get Macy's. Or Wieboldt's - shudder. Big but so what.
Posted by: John in LaGrange
I listened to the Chicagoist Podcast.
Posted by: gle
I was happy to hear the interview with FieldsFans and the group pushing for the Sears Tower name over Wills from the "Chicagoist.com" podcast. It looks like we got some really important points aired that don't always show up in other media sources.
Posted by: gle
Macysinc.com website announces another "star:"
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1322374&highlight=
http://www.chicagotribune.com/features/style/la-ig-list23-2009aug23,0,4103509.story
http://www.suntimes.com/entertainment/people/1727700,CST-FTR-piggy21.article
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=84477&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1323210&highlight=
Posted by: Ann, Warrenville
I will be out there three weeks from today.
Posted by: John D
Please tell just ONE other person each new day, wherever you live, about boycott against macy's and bloomingdale's nationwide. (Fellow students, neighbors, co-w
orkers, teachers, family members, your dentist and doctor's staffs, your fellow commuters...whomever you meet.
Posted by: John D
Consumerist.com has dozens of macy-related articles, all less than flattering, with comments indexed on two pages.
http://consumerist.com/tag/macys/
Posted by: Gail F.
I grew up in La Grange and we also met at Marshall Field's under the clock.
Posted by: Brittany
I could always find perfectly exciting things to buy at Marshall Field's. I would always go to Field's for my back-to-school wardrobes for my recent college years. I was always the envy of my out-of-state college sorority because Field's apparel was not your typical same-same clothing as all other stores in the U.S. Frequently, I'd be asked..."Where in the world did you get that darling outfit?" I was proud to say, "At Marshall Field's in Chicago, of course!"
Posted by: Gabby
I grew up in Chicago and now live in Europe. Marshall Field's was always a very special store and landmark for me. During the holiday season my mom would take us kids downtown and we loved the beautifully decorated Christmas windows. Visiting Chicago - without going to Marshall Field's is very sad. There's definately something missing. Please bring Marshall Field's back to the Windy City.
Posted by: David
I liked the newsletter.
Posted by: Kevin
So glad to see the Marshall Field's rallies are still going. Don't EVER stop!
Posted by: Ashley
Marshall Field's FOREVER!
Posted by: Joy
Yes, I will be there on Sept. 13.
Posted by: Gail
Thanks, Zelda. As you suggested, I watched the trailer for "The Time Traveler's Wife" and saw the little girl running with her Marshall Field's bag. It made my happy.
Posted by: Pat
Keep standing up for our Field's!
Posted by: Lee
It's shocking that Macy's has totally ignored the history of the State Street store during the Burnham Plab Centennial celebration.
Posted by: Dianne S.
Just wanted to let you know that I am still honoring the boycott and have not bought anything at either Macy's or Bloomingdale's since September 2006. I just wonder if the management of Macy's realizes that hundreds and maybe thousands of people are boycotting their store since people. For every Macy's bag they see, they could have three or four Marshall Field's bags instead.
Posted by: John
It was bad enough what Macy's did to Burdine's here in Fla., but after what they did to Marshall Field's I will not even set foot in a Macy's store.o
Posted by: Cheryl
I'd rather get a new Marshall Field's sales catalogue, but the Field's Fans newsletter I just received is about as good as it gets.
Posted by: FieldsFansChicago.org
-------------------------------------------------------
FieldsFansChicago.org
Newsletter Number 19
FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2009
-------------------------------------------------------
In This
Newsletter...
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13,
2009
1:00 PM
Under the Marshall Field's Great Clock at
STATE & WASHINGTON STREETS
RALLY FOR MARSHALL FIELD'S, RALLY FOR CHICAGO
We're
asking for just an hour of your time
to
stand up for our beloved international city and
also
help bring back the institution that brought us 154 great
years
Be
There For Marshall Field's!
Be
There For Chicago!
-----------------------
FREE "CITY of CHICAGO" FLAGS &
"I
WANT MY MARSHALL FIELD'S" BUTTONS
for
RALLY PARTICIPANTS
-----------------------
"Must Listening"
SPECIAL PODCAST FEATURING FieldsFansChicago.org
-----------------------
Our
Recent Survey on State St. & Michigan Ave.:
78%
PREFER MARSHALL FIELD'S
-----------------------
Other
topics in this Newsletter
* STAY IN TOUCH VIA THE FieldsFansChicago.org
BLOG
* JOIN OUR NEW GROUP on FACEBOOK
* FOLLOW US on TWITTER
*
DO YOU WISH TO SPONSOR OUR ACTIVITIES?
*
SPECIAL REGARDS
*
HOW TO SUBSCRIBE & UNSUBSCRIBE; MORE...
-------------------------------------------------------
PLEASE HELP BY FORWARDING THIS NEWSLETTER ON
TO
ALL POTENTIALLY INTERESTED FRIENDS & FAMILY.
-------------------------------------------------------
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13,
2009
1:00 PM
Under the Marshall Field's Great Clock at
STATE & WASHINGTON STREETS
RALLY FOR MARSHALL FIELD'S, RALLY FOR CHICAGO
We're
asking for just an hour of your time
to
stand up for our beloved international city and
also
help bring back the institution that brought us 154 great
years
BE
THERE FOR MARSHALL FIELD'S!
BE
THERE FOR CHICAGO!
-----------------------
In the coming weeks, we mark three years
since Chicago's Chicago's international retail, fashion,
cultural, historical, architectural and culinary icon, Marshall
Field's, was converted to another Macy's store.
While something was lost--at least
temporarily--on that sad day in Chicago history, something was also
ignited--a heightened sense of civic pride in our great, international
city, Chicago, and a sense of service and involvement in our
community.
That heightened pride has spread to other
movements--some of which you may or may not support--as those who have
partaken in the activities of ItsTheSearsTower.com, KeepItWrigley.org,
SaveGrantPark.org, and others have all cited the activities of
FieldsFansChicago.org as a source of inspiration.
Others have written saying that
participating in a rally for Marshall Field's was the first time you
have ever done something like that. As a result, you have since
been motivated to take a more active role in local or national
politics (especially during the 2008 campaign season) or have expanded
your volunteer activities to help the poor, those with disabilities,
local schools and libraries, community preservation efforts, and those
who quite simply are struggling and are less fortunate.
Considering all that, we have already
had success. What was started by us all on State Street three
years ago was the beginning of something much bigger and more diverse
than was thought of at the time.
But still, we return to the original reason
we all came together 36 months ago: pride in Chicago and love
for perhaps its greatest institution and icon, Marshall
Field's.
So . . . there are those who may ask if
it's possible: Can Marshall Field's come back? How are we making a
difference?
The answer is YES!
Consider that there are those--more than a few--who say had we
not continued our efforts, the State Street store would have fallen
into a steep and quick decline. Instead we have challenged
Macy's to attempt to match the apex, Marshall Field's.
Consider that an overwhelming 78% of over
500 recently surveyed State Street and Michigan Avenue shoppers said
that they STILL want Marshall Field's over Macy's and would shop at
State Street and other locations if Field's was restored in service,
style and name. Your active participation in
FieldsFansChicago.org activities means that people still have a voice
in declaring that Field's can and should come back.
Consider that interest in
FieldsFansChicago.org has spiked and has been sustained, especially
after the renaming of the Sears Tower last month with more than a few
news stories covering how Chicago still wants its Marshall Field's.
Regardless of your position on the re-naming of the Sears Tower or
Wrigley Field or building in Grant Park or the corporate acquisitions
of other Chicago-area businesses, know that all you have done for the
return of Marshall Field's has inspired others to also stand up for
their piece of Chicago history.
Consider that in this climate, large
corporations can change again. For example, regardless of how
you feel about the past year's changes at the Chicago Tribune,
the fact is that it will soon have a new owner yet again for the
second time in two years. Anything can happen in corporate
America. What seemed like a good idea two or three years ago can
suddenly change.
Consider that after three years and many
millions of dollars spent, Macy's has yet to prove itself a success at
State Street.
Consider that while the economy is
struggling, people are making exceptions and still standing in line
for hours to spend their for must-have, out-of-the-ordinary items or
experiences. Just a few examples include the likes of the newest
Apple iPhone, Chevy Camarro or special performances and concerts like
the first Chicago Symphony Concerts conducted by Riccardo Muti or even
Elton John and Billy Joel or Miley Cyrus.
Consider what "Zelda" wrote in
our last newsletter:
We hope that you will be able to give
just an hour of your time on Sunday afternoon, September 13, 2009 at
1:00 pm, to join us on State Street in rallying for our great
institution, Marshall Field's, and our great city,
Chicago.
-----------------------
Mark the
date and time!
BE THERE FOR
FIELD'S!
BE THERE FOR
CHICAGO!
...and bring friends and
family!
-----------------------
*
Field's Fans should start gathering at 12:40
Under the Great Marshall Field's Clock at
State & Washington Streets
*
Wear your "Marshall Field's Best" or something
dark green (please, no profane t-shirts).
*
Bring signs and placards with Marshall Field's slogans.
*
A limited number of additional signs will be available at the
protest.
*
Carry a Marshall Field's Shopping Bag.
*
Carry a City of Chicago Flag.
*
Please be peaceable and dignified in the spirit of Marshall
Field's.
*
Please be careful not to obstruct the doors to the store.
*
Please do not stand in or block the street.
*
Check http://www.FieldsFansChicago.org, our Facebook
Group,
our Twitter crawl and your Email box for last minute news and
bulletins.
-------------------------------------------------------
FREE "CITY
of CHICAGO" FLAGS &
"I WANT MY
MARSHALL FIELD'S" BUTTONS
for RALLY
PARTICIPANTS
Participants in our Sunday, September 13
rally will have the opportunity to receive a free 4" X 6"
City of Chicago flag and 2" diameter "I Want My Marshall
Field's" button.
Buttons and flags will be distributed AT THE RALLY until
all are given out. If you wish to be guaranteed a button and
flag AT THE RALLY, please email us in advance at
ButtonsATFieldsFansChicago.org.
-------------------------------------------------------
"Must
Listening"
SPECIAL PODCAST FEATURING
FieldsFansChicago.org
The July 20 podcast edition of
Chicagoist.com features a 37-minute segment on FieldsFansChicago.org
and ItsTheSearsTower.com. The first 22 minutes or so are devoted
to FieldsFansChicago.org and focus on current status of Field's,
Macy's and our grass roots efforts.
We encourage you to listen to this
comprehensive and inspiring interview. Please visit http://media.libsyn.com/media/karlklockars/Chicagoist_Podcast_July_20.mp3 in your web browser or
via iTunes. In iTunes, please use the "Advanced/Open Audio
Stream..." command and paste in the full web
address.
-------------------------------------------------------
Our
Recent Survey on State St. & Michigan Ave.:
78%
PREFER MARSHALL FIELD'S
As first reported to you in our press
release emailed on May 15, 2009, our recently completed survey of 522
State Street and Michigan Avenue shoppers showed that 78% preferred
Marshall Field's over Macy's; 72% said that they shop at the stores
less (or not at all) since they were converted to Macy's; and 78% said
that they would shop the stores more if they were converted back to
Marshall Field's. The margin of error was 4.23% with a
confidence level of 95%.
Expanded details can be viewed at
http://www.fieldsfanschicago.org
The results of this survey were presented
to Macy's, Inc. CEO, Chairman, and President Terry Lundgren and
Macy's, Inc.'s Board of Directors during the "Q & A"
session after the conclusion annual shareholders meeting in Cincinnati
on Friday, May 15, 2009.
-------------------------------------------------------
STAY IN TOUCH
VIA THE FieldsFansChicago.org BLOG
The FieldsFansChicago.org blog is a place
for Field's Fans to talk about Marshall Field's and what it means to
them. Stop on by to share thoughts, comments, news and rumors.
The URL is http://www.fieldsfanschicago.org/blog
-------------------------------------------------------
JOIN OUR NEW GROUP on
FACEBOOK
Back in 2006, Facebook was known mostly to
college students and faculty. Even then, dozens of student-run
Facebook groups in support of Marshall Field's (not to mention
Dayton's and Hudson's) sprang up among the youth and played a big part
in our activities.
Today, Facebook has become a mainstream
phenomenon. While some of those pro-Field's groups remain, we
hope all Facebook users will join our newly founded Facebook
"umbrella" group--"
FieldsFansChicago.org"-- in support of the return of Marshall
Field's.
Search for FieldsFansChicago.org on
Facebook and add us as a group. And, be sure to "Invite
people to join."
-------------------------------------------------------
FOLLOW US on
TWITTER
Get up-to-the-minute news and photos about
our grassroots group on Twitter.
Follow us at "FieldsFansChgo"
(Please note that "Chicago" is abbreviated in our
name.)
"Find out what we are doing right
now!"
-------------------------------------------------------
DO YOU WISH TO
SPONSOR OUR ACTIVITIES?
In these tough times we acknowledge that
there are many causes deserving of your support. If you are so
moved, we welcome your assistance in offsetting some of the expenses
of our ongoing leaflet and button distributions, as well as other
activities in support of Field's.
We are totally committed to continuing our
efforts. People have come forward in amazing ways to help,
donating leaflets, pin-on buttons, bumper stickers, advertising and
more.
Thank you for your help so we can continue
to inspire others to support the return of Marshall
Field's.
If you can donate, please email
donateATfieldsfanschicago.org as to how and where to send a check.
Alternatively, PayPal contributions are accepted at
donateATfieldsfanschicago.org
All contributions are solely channeled to
offset our activities.
Thank you for your amazing
support!
-------------------------------------------------------
SPECIAL
REGARDS
A very special "thank you" to all
who helped make our ongoing campaigns, events and efforts a success
including but not limited to Daniel, Alfred and, of course, Gloria.
All named and unnamed are our heroes!
Please remember that your efforts to help
bring back Marshall Field's are greatly appreciated, respected, and
admired. Your work is already making a difference, putting the
brakes on Macy's disregard for Marshall Field's and what it means to
Chicago. Spread the word. You are helping to make
history.
All of our efforts will make the return to
greatness come true.
-------------------------------------------------------
HOW TO
SUBSCRIBE & UNSUBSCRIBE; MORE...
TO UNSUBSCRIBE:
Send email to
unsubscribeATfieldsfanschicago.org
Please include the email address you wish
unsubscribed if it is not the one from which you are sending the
request.
TO SUBSCRIBE:
Send email to
subscribeATfieldsfanschicago.org
Subscription requests must be sent from the email address that is to
be added to the subscriber list.
SWITCHING ADDRESSES?
1.) Send an unsubscribe request from either
you old address or your new one; then
2.) send a subscribe request from your new address.
Again, NEW "Subscribe" requests MUST come from the address
at which this newsletter is to be delivered.
* Please send all bug reports to
infoATfieldsfanschicago.org
* FieldsFansChicago.org and this
newsletter have NO affiliation whatsoever with Macy's, Inc. (formerly
Federated Department Stores), May Department Stores, Macy's,
Bloomingdale's, Marshall Field's, the Field Family, the Field
Foundation of Chicago, keepitfields.org, etc. The views, opinions, and
info expressed here represent only the writer. Corrections
welcomed and published in our next enewsletters.
-------------------------------------------------------
END OF
NEWSLETTER #19
-------------------------------------------------------
Posted by: S.B.
The latest advertisement in the Macy's windows? Q-tips. Can you believe it?
Posted by: Peter
Anyone know why the benefactor of Glamorama shifted from the Art Institute of Chicago to Ronald McDonald House?
Posted by: S.B.
I was walking on State Street today and there in the rain I saw the sign that said... "Bigsby & Kruthers Returns."
Posted by: Jim
Thanks to "Field's Fan Forever" and Pete for bringing the Chicagoist Podcast to our attention.
http://chicagoist.com/2009/07/20/chicagoist_podcast_720_-.php
However, be aware that the photos accompanying the article are not appropriate for mixed audiences such as those sensitive to profane gestures and word, in grade schools, etc. In consideration of that, you can just listen to the podcast without photos at
http://media.libsyn.com/media/karlklockars/Chicagoist_Podcast_July_20.mp3
While the interview was on short notice and a bit "on the fly" , I do think it summarizes where we are at now in terms of our quest to bring back Marshall Field's. I hope that you will give it a listen.
Posted by: Vivian C.
I, too, was surprised that the the CFO of macy's, Karen Houget could only muster the tiny (almost hilariously insignificant) example of "macy's doing what customers want". How pathetic! I had to laugh out loud, after re-reading the quote to make sure I was reading it correctly. I agree with Mary E. that Marshall Field's ladies shoe salons carried the complete lines and sizes of shoes, including size 11, long, long ago. Starting to carry size 11 shoes---Is THAT what macy's CFO thinks is new, exciting, innovative and most significant?! (Well, knowing macy's, maybe that IS the most important thing they have instituted at macy's...and so, that IS major for macy's! Give me a break!
Posted by: Mike Al.
I was walking past Macy's State Street on Monday and noticed one of the sponsor's of Glamorama is Alfani, Imagine that!
Posted by: drew
First JC Penney and now Kohl's entering the Red Star's home turf:
http://www.reuters.com/article/marketsNews/idINN1948156220090819?rpc=44
Perhaps the Red Star is no longer the Manhattan retail powerhouse and shopping destination it once was. Although I have not been in the Herald Square store for many years, I would bet the merchandise is the same overpriced, nondescript discount store stuff sold at every Red Star outlet. As JP Penney and Kohl's gain popularity with shoppers, the Red Star has offended and bored shoppers from coast to coast.
Posted by: Trudy N.
I was and remain appalled that Macy's was/is stupid enough to try to eliminate Marshall Field's....NEVER!
Posted by: A Field's Fan Forever
Chicagoist features an interview with Jim McKay, co-organizer of FieldsFansChicago.org
http://chicagoist.com/2009/07/20/chicagoist_podcast_720_-.php
Posted by: Jacqueline K.
I'm a supporter of the Marshall Field's cause, having grown up in The Region, and I was thrilled to find your website!
Posted by: James P
At a recent Cubs home game, the person sitting next to me was part of a group who traveled together in a van from Missouri. His wife was telling that for them it's now just a one day trip into and out of Chicago with the only stops being Wrigley Field and a restaurant along the way. Previously they would make it a 2-day trip, spent overnight at a downtown Chicago hotel, with the second day being spent entirely at Marshall Field's State Street store for shopping...and dining. Not anymore, she said, since macy's killed Marshall Field's.
Posted by: Alexis G.
Posted by: gle
The "Tribune" now requires posters to register in order to write on their blogs. It is free and simple.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/sns-ap-us-macys-on-the-call,0,6794201.story
http://www.suntimes.com/business/1712520,SHOES-SIZE11-MACYS-081209.article
Posted by: gle
Second quarter results are out at the www.macysinc.com website:
Posted by: gle
I went in the State Street store last week and asked a sales associate in the lower level Frango department if they carried the made-in-Chicago Frango's by Cupid Candies. She said it was not possible to tell, "All the boxes say manufactured by Macy's." I checked through the 1 lb. boxes (that is supposed to be the size made in Chicago by Cupid), and they did still have the manufactured by Macy's New York labeling.
Posted by: gle
Fellow Field's Fans,
Posted by: John D.
The Chicago Reader questions back in January 2007 what seems like the Chicago Sun-Times slanted alliance with macy's.
The challenging and precarious situation of print media makes it tragically difficult for our finest news instotutions to give the whole
story on Macy's. And to think the modern Sun-Times was founded by Marshall Field's decendents.
http://www.chicagoreader.com/chicago/dont-mention-it/Content?oid=924042
Posted by: cheryl H.
Marshall Fields was a shopper's retail Disneyworld...a step back into a classier time if you so desired, an educational experience if that was what you wanted, visiting other lands, experiencing other cultures or simply slippping into timeless eternity were also possibilities.
Posted by: C. Willis
The exec at macy's is confused and does not have a clue. First, Mr. Lundgren wanted a national department store...(which we already had several of)...and now he's searching for "localization" after he destroyed the local regional department stores that had loyal followings.
Posted by: Zelda
Field's Fans will flip when they go to see the new movie, "The Time Traveler's Wife." One of the main characters is seen as a child running through a field with a large Marshall Field's shopping bag. It's in the trailer, too, so anyone can watch it online if they do a search for the movie. The legend lives, and will return!
Posted by: Mary E.
Ms. Hoguet makes it sound like macy's just suddenly came up with this "localization" grand idea to begin carrying ladies shoes in size 11. Let me tell you, because I worked at Field's comprehensive shoe department...Marshall Field's carried size 11 shoes before your boss, Terry Lundgren dismantled Field's fine shoe salons and eliminated size 11 and everything else that made Field's a real department store!
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5gWPRmigkL4DFENTwOzwRobkZsD1wD9A1GIRG0
Posted by: J.C.
Here's one for y'all...
http://consumerist.com/5027428/
Posted by: Janie L.
What one person, Lisa L, stated in 2007 about the
http://www.planet99.com/chicago/tour/macys_marshall_fields.html
Posted by: Corey K.
Hi Fellow Field's Fans-
Posted by: Lynn S.
was born in Chicago and now live in California. My sister and I visit "the town we love" as often as possible. I remember holding my mother's hand as she shopped at Marshall Fields and all the windows at Christmas. Marshall Fields means Chicago to me and to so many others. It is a one-of-a-kind store. NOT MACYS!
Posted by: Jimmy Gimbels
So now those wacky folks at Macy's claim their midwest division is the most profitable. How can that be with so many unstocked and customer free stores in the Chicago area? Yet another PR ploy I would imagine. Or, the other divisions are doing even worse. Macy's also claim the "My Macy's" program is a huge success - but, of course, no numbers were shared.
Posted by: Jennifer P.
I was crushed when Marshall Fields ceased to be in Houston a few years back. Love your website!
Posted by: L. Grand
I was very pleased to see Marilyn C's wonderful greeting from Hawaii to our group. Her zeal and support were evident and I'd just like to say, THANK YOU FOR YOUR ENCOURAGEMENT AND SUPPORT, MARILYN.
Posted by: Alex G.
Terry Lundgren's committing the "worst business decision ever in retail" will forever come back to haunt him.
Posted by: drew
An "aggressive cost cutting campaign" has enabled macy*mart to conceal the truth about King Lunkhead's rapidly collapsing empire:
http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Earnings-apf-659968370.html?x=0&.v=2
Posted by: Joy C.
What a terrible shame macy's massacred Marshall Field's! Mayor Daley fell for Terry Lundgren's false promises of keeping
Posted by: Bill W.
Marshall Field's was the only store I willingly went with my wife to shop. Field's had countless departments that men would be interested in, and the service was tremendously appealing. I learned so much about wines, and I could shop at the most complete men's store around at my own leisure. Just walking around gave me much exercise, and the sales associates were so congenial, knowledgable and easy-to-converse-with. They were not there just to ring up purchases. Now, my wife goes to Carson's, Lord & Taylor, Nordstrom and Von Maur and online, but claims shopping is nothing like it was with Field's. I agree. That special specialness is so gone that it's eerie...and sad. Marshall Field's was Chicago through-and-through, the genuine real thing!
Posted by: Don D.
Marshall Field's---As Chicago As It Gets!
Posted by: gle
Here is a link for Messy's upcoming webcast August 12, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. ET from the macysinc.com website.
http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?p=irol-eventDetails&c=84477&eventID=2369355
Posted by: Philip Eichler
I haven't posted in a while, so here's a few random thoughts:
Posted by: Susan
Re tradition:
Posted by: Rich
Hi All
Posted by: drew
If nothing else, the Red Star is consistent:
http://retailsails.com/monthly-sales-summary/macys/
Each monthly and quarterly report shows a consistent decline in sales. Each monthly and quarterly report blames consolidation and/or reorganization expenses but promises some "exciting" new program such as "my macy*s" which will attract customers.