Rowland Macy opens his new store in New York City after failed ventures, and finds success and a new family. Macy's grows and becomes a department store under Margaret's leadership. After Roland's death, the store faces uncertainty but is rebuilt by the Straus family, transforming into an iconic American institution.
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Quick takeaways
Macy's success was a result of innovative business practices like fixed pricing and clear advertising.
Margaret Getchell played a crucial role in expanding Macy's product range and driving its growth.
Deep dives
Summary of Podcast Episode
This podcast episode discusses the origins and early challenges of Macy's department store in New York City. The founder, Roland H. Macy, faced repeated failures in his previous retail businesses before opening his successful store in 1858. Macy's implemented innovative business practices such as fixed pricing and clear advertising, which appealed to customers. The episode also highlights the pivotal role of Margaret Getchell, one of Macy's employees, in expanding the store's product range and shaping its success. The episode concludes with the passing of Roland Macy and the transition of Macy's ownership to his chosen heirs, who would continue to grow the business.
Roland Macy's Path to Success
Roland H. Macy faced several failures in his earlier retail ventures before opening Macy's in 1858. He utilized innovative business practices such as fixed pricing and clear advertising, attracting customers to his store in New York City.
Margaret Getchell's Influence
Margaret Getchell, an employee at Macy's, played a significant role in expanding the store's product range and introducing new ideas. Her determination and eye for detail were instrumental in the store's growth.
Transition of Ownership
After the death of Roland H. Macy, his chosen heirs, Abiel LaForge and Robert Valentine, took over the store. However, both passed away within a short period. The store then passed on to Charles Be Webster, who later partnered with Jeremy Wheeler. This partnership ultimately ended, leading to new ownership by the Straus family, who revitalized Macy's and turned it into a successful department store.
After a series of failed enterprises in California and Massachusetts, Rowland Macy launches his latest retail store in New York – in the fast-growing metropolis he finds not only success at last, but also a new family to take his legacy forward.
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