Macy’s expanding its concept of mini-format stores in the U.S.

Compact stores outside malls will offer customers almost the same wide selection of goods as full-fledged department stores.

Macy’s is considered one of the largest U.S. department store chains. Its facilities are known for their vast floor space and a wide selection of merchandise. However, the company also shows its interest in a completely new format for itself – small stores. At the same time, it plans to open stores outside shopping centers. 

Already the second such store is opening in the city of West Bend, near Washington. The new format of stores is called Market by Macy’s. The concept will retain all the features of the usual department stores, which, however, will be “packed” in a small area of compact retail space. 

Macy’s characterizes the new concept with the term “off-mall” (“outside the mall”). The new store will give customers almost the same wide range of choices and opportunities as a big department store while maintaining a small retail outlet’s comfort and hospitality. In a compact space of about 20,000-square-foot (1,800 square meters), designed as an open space, shoppers will be offered a carefully selected selection of clothing, home decor, beauty products, and a variety of gifts.

The mini department store will feature the same brands as the full Macy’s, including such famous brands as Polo Ralph Lauren, Levi’s, Tommy Hilfiger, and company-owned brands such as INC International Concepts, Alfani, and Hotel Collection. The store will also feature an area called the Trends Pavilion, which will feature merchandise reflecting the latest fashion trends.

The new store opening is part of Macy’s three-year strategy called Polaris. The strategic plan, unveiled in February 2020, includes closing about 125 outlets by 2023 and testing and developing smaller format stores that will open outside of shopping malls.