Does Macy’s sell sewing machines? It’s a common query asked by avid sewers and curious shoppers alike. While Macy’s stores are widely known for retailing apparel, beauty products, home goods, jewelry and more, selling sewing machines isn’t on their roster.
Based in New York, Macy’s is the largest department store in the United States and one of the biggest employers in the nation. Founded nearly two centuries ago, Macy’s began as a modest store located in the lower Manhattan area and has since grown to span over US states and an internet presence.
Macy’s 2020 Annual Report sheds light on the retailer’s operational strategies that maintain and support their towering retail empire. Interestingly, the reports highlighted the store’s dedication to finding ways to extend their merchandise and bring higher valued items to their expansive list of offerings.
While the return of customer-favorite items and improving the stores’ inventory has proven to be profitable, sewing machines were not included. The retailer has been candid about garnering curiosities from their customers but there has yet to be any changes in their merchandise to accommodate those particular requests.
Analysts and retail experts have come up with various theories as to why Macy’s decided to leave sewing machines off their roster. Some believe that their flagship stores and large department stores simply lack the infrastructure to effectively store, organize and display such items. Moreover, the small and often specialized items can take up valuable shelf space that might be better spent stocking larger, pricier items that offer a bigger return on investment for the department store.
Another theory suggests that the chain is undertaking a conscious effort to stay within their field of expertise – particularly in fashion and apparel. Adding items such as sewing machines might complicate or change the dynamics of their brand, confuse customers and store staff, and ultimately decrease profitability.
While the matter of Macy’s selling sewing machines remains questionable and is yet to be answered, we can still speculate the different odds of it coming to fruition. Keeping in mind the retailer’s past strategies and beliefs, it only stands to reason that sewing machines are highly unlikely to join the others in their vast collection of products.
Profitability of Selling Sewing Machines
One of the main factors that Macy’s takes into account when considering the merchandise they include in their stores is profitability. Without profitability, Macy’s would stop to exist. But what are the odds of Macy’s selling sewing machines and making a profit?
The truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Sewing machines are a niche product, and if sold through Macy’s it can contribute to their bottom line. And given their extensive network of department stores, there is potential for selling sewing machines but it may not be a priority for the department store.
Employees at Macy’s suggest that the retailer previously considered including sewing machines on their aisles but there were certain issues like storage and upkeep that were prohibitive. The average Macy’s store has limited space, which means that stocking and displaying sewing machines can be quite a challenge. Maintenance is also a factor to consider, particularly given the delicate parts of sewing machines and their need to be periodically repaired or replaced.
Additionally, Macy’s relies heavily on brand endorsement and in-store marketing. Offering sewing machines requires investing in proper visual presentations and finding the right platform to launch their product. Mall displays and services such as in-store repairs and regular maintenance are essential components of a successful sewing machine launch. But these are steep investments that Macy’s cannot sustain given their current infrastructure.
Macy’s Focusing on Core Products
At the end of the day, Macy’s is a department store that heavily specializes in selling fashion items, home goods, and other related products. It isn’t a hardware store that caters to shoppers interested in items like sewing machines. Therefore, macys may not be the most appropriate option for those looking for sewing machines.
The vast majority of Macy’s shelves and kiosks are used to showcase items from clothing to jewelry and cosmetics, in addition to food items and other goods. Sewing machines are not currently offered, nor are they likely to be anytime soon.
Given Macy’s solid focus on their core products, it’s unlikely that they will make a foray into other areas anytime soon. Sewing machines are an intricate device, and it takes specialized knowledge and know-how to effectively sell them. In addition, Macy’s may choose to leave the marketing and branding of sewing machines to stores specializing in such items.
Furthermore, some industry leaders believe that Macy’s is sticking with their core items of clothing, furniture, beauty products, and accessories as part of a larger strategy to increase market share and retain customers. This strategy may account for the limited range of options of sewing machines on the shelves of Macy’s stores.
Signs of a Change in the Future
That said, sewing machine enthusiasts may not need to lose hope entirely. Recent reports suggest that Macy’s isn’t completely dismissing the idea of selling such items. Rather, the company appears to be curious about the possibility but still can’t commit to such a decision.
Macy’s CEO, Jeffrey Gennette mentioned that the company may soon consider including sewing machines in their product offering. He believes that customers are ready to shop beyond what Macy’s has traditionally offered. However, this change is likely to be spearheaded by Macy’s own research and market studies.
What’s more, there has also been talk of the department store exploring collaborations with specialized sewing machine stores in order to bring the items to Macy’s shelves in a successful and profitable manner. All things considered, it’s safe to say that there may be hope for sewing machine enthusiasts yet.
Alternatives to Macy’s
Until Macy’s makes a final decision, sewers and crafters looking to purchase sewing machines may need to explore other options. Depending on their requirements, there are a few shopping avenues to pursue.
For starters, sewing machine stores both in-person and online, specialize in a diverse range of products. From industrial-grade machines to handheld units, these stores offer a wide selection of models, brands and sizes. Moreover, customers are likely to receive expert advice along with helpful technical support and even in-store services.
Home supply stores such as Walmart and Target may also carry sewing machines but shoppers visiting these stores should expect limited selections when compared to specialized stores.
In any case, it’s important to check out the available options before committing to a particular product. Doing so can help minimize buyer’s remorse and promote smarter shopping.
Conclusion
While it’s unlikely that Macy’s will be stocking sewing machines anytime soon, there are a few alternatives available. From specialized stores to home supply stores, sewing machine enthusiasts have some choices to explore until Macy’s finally decides to sell them.
