The retail industry has seen the middle class impacted by the success of cost-saving places like Walmart and luxury brands, while department stores like Macy's are aiming to pivot towards a more upscale experience to avoid the 'messy middle'. Bloomingdale's, Macy's higher-end store, exemplifies the fusion of e-commerce and physical stores to boost sales. The integration of physical stores increases digital sales in the area, showcasing the importance of an e-commerce strategy in retail reinvention. Additionally, customer feedback emphasizes the preference for less cluttered shop floors and knowledgeable salespeople.