Q+A with Jim Sloss, Macy’s

Your retail design career started at international architectural firm HOK. What lessons from your experience there have helped you at Macy’s?
Learning to focus on the overall planning process and to always look at the “big picture” has been extremely beneficial, especially with all the need for vendor statements and shop-in-shop concepts in department stores today. I also learned a tremendous amount about construction by designing and building projects all over the world.

You’ve been with Macy’s for more than 19 years. How has the role of the department store evolved during that time?
Competition has increased tremendously and therefore the importance to retain customers and maintain market share has increased. Compelling
merchandise assortments, obvious value, quality environments and engaging customer service have been key for the department stores to retain their
customers.

Why are department stores still relevant in today’s retail landscape?
Department stores are still differentiated from most retailers. Customers still value the full-line assortment of fashion, cosmetics and goods under one roof.

In 10 words or less, who is Macy’s target consumer?
Fashion-forward females and males who truly appreciate affordable luxury.

What current design trends are you particularly fond of?
Customer service fitting room environments that are comfortable, engaging and interactive. I’m also an advocate of bringing more daylighting into the stores, especially the fitting rooms. I would add to that list food/restaurants offerings and other services that make the shopping experience memorable and help keep the customer in the store. Right now, international department stores are providing these services more than those in the U.S.

Which one do you wish would go away?
Shopping carts in the department store environment.

Name one hobby you have outside the office that would surprise people.
One of my best friends from high school studied horticulture in college and eventually became a landscape architect. As I was going through college, he encouraged me to get a minor in landscape design. As a result, one of my favorite hobbies now is gardening.

What advice has helped you along the way?
Always treat people with the utmost respect.

What’s the worst advice you received?
The idea that you can usually “know” somebody within minutes of working with them.

Favorite movie:
I am a big Grace Kelly fan. Any movie she performed in would be a favorite.

Television:
I don’t watch much TV, but when I do, it’s sports. I have two sons who usually control the channels.

Last live music performance I attended:
Muse. An unbelievable performance with an unforgettable light show.