FAO Schwarz Inc. (New York), the 145-year-old toy retailer that closed its Michigan Avenue store in Chicago five years ago during two bankruptcy proceedings, will open a 5200-square-foot shop at the Macy's store on State Street on November 1.
“We're bringing the joys of toys back to Chicago,” said FAO Schwarz ceo Ed Schmults. “We intend to create a corner of enchantment on State Street. With the solid overlap between our customers, we think our presence in Macy's benefits us both.”
The Chicago-based Macy's North division of Macy’s Inc. (Cincinnati) will include the new toy store in the children's department on the fifth floor of the former Marshall Field’s store.
“FAO Schwarz is a world-renowned leader in specialty toys and we're thrilled to welcome them to Macy's on State Street,” said Frank Guzzetta, chairman and ceo of Macy's North. “This new store within a store will enhance our customers' shopping experience and the excitement and magic at Macy's on State Street for all ages just in time for the holiday season.”
A ribbon-cutting ceremony on November 2 will feature the world-famous FAO Schwarz toy soldier.
The first FAO Schwarz store opened in Chicago in 1870, but was destroyed by the great fire of 1871. The retailer opened another store in 1992 on Michigan Avenue, which closed in early 2002.