Department Stores Can Handle A Slowdown

Article Excerpt

Department stores have fallen out of favor in the past few years, largely due to the growing popularity of smaller specialty stores and online shopping. However, their wider range of merchandise helps shield them from fickle fashion trends and fads. Their larger size also makes it easier for them to negotiate better deals with suppliers. Discount department stores like Wal-Mart have moved up lately, as the slowing economy helps them attract cost-conscious shoppers. While traditional department stores such Macy’s, J.C. Penney and Nordstrom have struggled, they continue to do a good job controlling costs. That will help them thrive as the economy rebounds. WAL-MART STORES INC. $57 (New York symbol WMT; Conservative Growth Portfolio, Consumer sector; Shares outstanding: 4.0 billion; Market cap: $228.0 billion; WSSF Rating: Above average) is the world’s largest retailer, with over 7,200 stores. About 55% of its stores are in the United States. The company has had trouble winning approval to expand in certain urban areas. Consequently, it will…