Kevin Graff

Macy's Cans Gift Wrapping Department

March 3, 2010

FROM RETAILWIRE:
If you're looking to buy a gift in Seattle and have it wrapped, Macy's may no longer be your store of choice. The chain has confirmed it is doing away with its gift wrapping departments in the city. Where do you stand on the elimination of services such as gift wrapping in department stores?      [more...]

Yet another example of how and why most department stores are becoming fundamentally irrelevant to customers. They're being out-retailed by specialty retailers constantly. You can find more unique products, better assortment, better prices, more convenient locations and (here we go again!) a better shopping experience. Gift wrapping isn't the most important thing. Far from it. But, it just signals another move further away from providing a great shopping experience.

Wait a minute ... maybe if they take the savings and invest it in better floor coverage with better staff they'll win this one! Probably not though.