DEPARTMENT STORES

Department Store

A retail establishment that offers w wide variety of consumer goods organized into specialized departments

History of Department Stores

• Emerged in the mid-19th century

• Changed shopping habits

• Redefined retail service and luxury

Characteristics of Department Stores

• Located in major cities

• One-stop shopping destination

• Wide product selection

• Specialized sales representatives

• Convenient shopping experience

Consignment System

Products owned by another retailer are displayed and sold within the department store, often in dedicated booths or retail spaces.

Typical Department Store Floor Arrangement

• Ground Floor – Cosmetics & Women's Fashion

• 2nd Floor – Women's Fashion

• 3rd Floor – Men's Department

• 4th Floor – Children's Department & Toys

• 5th Floor – Specialized Sections

• 1st Basement – Food Hall

• 2nd Basement – Home Furnishing & Appliances

Checkout Counter Placement

Checkout counters are distributed throughout each floor so customers can quickly pay for their purchases.

Shopping Psychology in Department Stores

Customers should be able to pay immediately after selecting an item to reduce the chance of changing their minds before checkout.

Department Store Architecture

Department stores are landmark commercial buildings that help define the streetscape of major shopping districts.

Why were historical styles used for department stores?

To project prestige, permanence, elegance, and commercial importance.

Modern Department Store Architecture

• Contemporary style

• Safe and functional design

• Landmark destination

• Some older buildings are modernized

Why are Department Stores losing customers?

• Viewed as outdated

• Cater to older, wealthier shoppers

• Less time for downtown shopping

• Poor public transportation

• Online shopping convenience

Effect of E-commerce on Department Stores

• Reduced foot traffic

• Store closures

• Flagship stores remain

• Expansion into online selling

Department Stores in the Philippines

The concept began during the late Spanish colonial period and expanded after the arrival of the Americans in 1898.