Macy’s to Acquire Bluemercury Beauty Brand

Macy’s Inc. (Cincinnati) announced plans Tuesday to acquire 60-store beauty brand Bluemercury (Washington, D.C.) for $210 million. When finalized, the purchase would be Macy’s first since it acquired May Co. in 2005. The purchase comes as Sephora (San Francisco) continues to grow at a rapid clip and threatens to overtake Macy’s position as leader in the beauty category.

Terry J. Lundgren, Macy’s chair and ceo, says Macy’s plans to expand the chain of Bluemercury stores, currently with a presence in 18 states, and develop “an enhanced omnichannel component for a seamless customer experience across stores, online and mobile.” Macy’s also plans to add Bluemercury products and in-store shops to Macy’s stores nationwide. 

Bluemercury will continue to operate as a stand-alone business, with founders Marla Malcolm Beck and Barry Beck retaining their current roles as ceo and coo, respectively.

Macy’s announced two major executive shifts Tuesday as well. Jeff Jennette, president, will give up his role as chief merchandising officer to focus on broader responsibilities within the corporation, according to Women’s Wear Daily. The chief merchandising officer role will be assumed by Timothy Baxter, Macy’s executive vp and general merchandise manager for ready-to-wear. Jeff Kantor, previous chair of macys.com, has been named Macy’s chief stores officer. Kantor will oversee store strategy, management and operations, visual merchandising, design and construction, and real estate.