With news today about NRDC Equity Partners purchasing The Hudson Bay Co., the national retail landscape is about change, especially where designer fashion is concerned. NRDC purchased Lord & Taylor in 2006 – the historical U.S. fashion department store chain – and it seems to be thriving under their ownership.I for one was very disappointed when The Bay moved into American hands a couple years ago but since it’s already there, I have no problem with it being in the hands of a company that has the potential to provide fashion-conscious shoppers with options at affordable price points. Speculation is it will give Holt Renfrew a run for its money. Could be interesting...
I love the purple merino sheath dress (pictured) Lord & Taylor is showing for fall and it seems like good value at $144. There’s also speculation about Fortunoff - also part of the Lord & Taylor-NRDC family joining the mix in the Great White North.
As for whether or not they should change the name to Lord & Taylor, I’m not sure. The Hudon Bay Co. represents such an imporant part of Canadian history, I’d hate to see it go.
Whether or not I’ll get my wish, only time will tell. What do you think?
I was sad to see the Bay "go south" too, but at this point I wonder what will happen. I'd love to see something give Holt Renfrew a run for its money . . . although I still find many of the Bay's so different. There is so much you can buy at the Bay Eaton Centre that you couldn't come close to getting here in Ottawa. Guess we'll wait and see what transpires with this new move.
ReplyDeleteShannon, thanks for your comment. I agree and from what I've read, I suspect we will continue to see different merchandise at different locations. However, Lord & Taylor has a great selection of clothing and accessories available online so regardless of where you live, if they follow the same model in Canada, you should be able to find what you what even if you can't get it in store.
ReplyDeleteI used to be a huge fan of The Bay (a lot of my kitchen was outfitted on scratch and save days). But, that enthusiasm has waned. Keep the name is important though--I think we have such a strong association with it. I'd love to see them make other changes, though.
ReplyDeleteCheers,
Connie
I, for one, think the Bay needs an overhaul. For years they have been selling clothing of substandard quality for mucho dineros. This was also the case before the Bay "went South". I think that the lack of variety and quality in the store is their downfall. Every time I go to the Bay, I am immensely disappointed.
ReplyDeleteConnie and Erica, I agree entirely about The Bay needing a makeover. I'm still torn about the name. While visiting Halifax last weekend, it was the talk of the town. Savvy shoppers would like to see the same selection of clothing available there that we can buy in larger centres. At the very least, I hope we can all access their online store. It would equal the fashion playing field cross-country.
ReplyDelete