Macy's for Sale

by Isadore Barmash

This is a reprint of a previously published work. it is the story of Macy's managers and their leveraged buyout--then the largest in history involving a retail store.

192 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1989

Reviews

[Donna · Rating 3 out of 5]

The prologue read like a fast-paced Wall Street story with lots of intrigue and big-head personalities. As a fan of Macys, mostly due to the 1934 movie “Miracle on 34th Street”, Thanksgiving Day parade and traditional July fireworks, I have a fondness for the store. Also, having grown up shopping with my mother in the down town shops, I have a devout appreciation for the old ways, and miss what made those stores special. Roomy dressing rooms, wrapping up the purchases, sales people that actually helped you find things, and a beautiful store to shop in. I worked for many years as a part-time sales person in many stores over the years, and have watched the demise of many chains.
I of course did not understand much of the financial information, and agree that the buyout by Finkelstein was a personal thing. The second big buyout by Campeau sealed the fate of retail, I believe it all became a real estate thing. The magic of the store was gone, replaced by discounted merchandise. There is more to the story of course…. but this is my take away.
I most enjoyed the explanations of the pride people (mostly men unfortunately) took at learning the art of merchandising. I wonder if anyone would appreciate the niceties of the by gone era.