PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Many shelves in the Center City Macy’s are empty as the store prepares to close in March. But shoppers are still browsing the aisles and looking for bargains.
Almost everywhere you look are big signs that read, “Entire Store on Sale,” and “Nothing Held Back.” But that’s not exactly true.
A surprising number of customers were looking for a deal on perfume Friday and left disappointed. A staff member said cosmetics will go on sale but Macy’s hasn’t announced when. Even those shopping the 10 to 25% off racks were not impressed.
“I think they need to go down a little bit on those prices," one customer said.
Some people were there just to look around or take a picture with the historically designated Eagle, which means it can’t be altered, demolished or moved without approval from the Historical Commission.
But it will surely be inaccessible for some time after the store closes.
Building owner T F Cornerstone said it “understands and respects the strong sentiment and affection the community has for Macy’s beloved holiday traditions, the iconic Eagle and the historic organ,” and noted these are “cherished pieces of the city’s history and culture and their preservation and role in the Wanamaker building’s future are important considerations in ongoing planning discussions."
Macy's says 65 locations — in malls, downtowns, cities and suburbs — will close by spring. City officials are presenting the Philly closure as an opportunity for economic revitalization in Market East and Center City.