Breakingviews: Department store death spiral enters phase two

Breakingviews
Carol Ryan
WATCH LIVE
Shoppers look at shoes at a Macy's department store in New York.
Michael Nagle | Bloomberg | Getty Images

The death loop playing out in department stores is entering a dismal second phase. Declining footfall is taking its toll on sales, with leading U.S. chain Macy's to close 100 shops. But the logical defence – deep discounts to lure shoppers – risks alienating labels like Hugo Boss and Michael Kors. If brands start withdrawing their products, the demise of department stores will accelerate.