have been following this thread for a fortnight. not sure how...

have been following this thread for a fortnight.

not sure how much was discussed previously about experiential retail and technology shift on here. i know department store retailers have had to adapt to modern societal changes since their inception. there is a greater fear - now more than ever - of disruptions and dislocations because of technologies. i just like to remind you that, first and foremost, we are consumers (bleak, i know). Real estate in Australia isnt cheap, so commercial leases are higher than elsewhere, and household debt is some of the highest in the world - 122%. Anyone buying a new dinner jacket, cologne and a toaster from Myer this weekend?

here's is a relevant q&a article with the massive department operator and retailer, Macy's CEO.
http://www.therobinreport.com/the-future-of-department-stores/

and check out Macy's long-term chart; cyclical you say?

and the future shift for high end department stores like DJs?
https://www.cnbc.com/2017/10/05/tak...troms-first-tiny-store-without-inventory.html

its been shown that a retailer who closes a physical store, will only expect to retain 12% of sales from that store via their online platform. Myer is reducing its physical foot print, and it will re-purpose its floor space eventually. Obviously, they arent world leaders, so look abroad for the likely direction it takes. Like many here, I would like to see management put their money where their mouth is. Sol Lew, at least, is prepared to have a go. He knows how cyclical this sector is, and is watching his investment halve in less than a year. Add to that the fact that 50% of share holders are mums and dads. Its been a shorters paradise. The pressure is mounting for Myer management to deliver; lease re negotiations, floor space repurposing, logistical efficiencies, and a move into a new era of retailing. My guess is that in the long term Myer will be the bridge between Target and DJs.