Inherently, department stores have significant advantages compared to all other retailers.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
I don't like department stores. I had a chain of department stores back in 1994 which was Lewis's and Owen Owen, only for a short time, and I found department stores personally difficult.
The department store was a product of the 19th century and became a very important institution as America went into the 20th century. It provided show places in developing towns like Terre Haute, Sacramento, and Dallas.
As goods become more standardized - and mass production has that effect, standardizing product - the distinguishing factor between one store and another is going to be how skillful stores are in satisfying customers and making it a pleasant experience instead of a hostile experience.
Personal shoppers in big department stores are seriously under-used.
I love being able to go to a store, let's say... a store like Topshop or Zara or maybe even Macy's, depends on what department, and not have to look at the price tag.
A great department store, easily reached, open at all hours, is more like a good museum of art than any of the museums we have yet established.
But they are also better, our competitors are better because Wal-Mart exists.
In the future, the best retail sites will know you much better and show you things that are much more relevant.
I prefer department stores. In boutiques, they come up and ask you if you need help. I can't get lost in the experience.
When you think about it, department stores are kind of like museums.