Von Maur’s Remarkable Makeover

Von Maur embarks on a $100 million renovation plan to redefine its department stores for a new generation — and reinvest in the 152-year-old company’s signature customer service.

Von Maur is a classic American department store, currently embarking on an extensive, multi-phased renovation of its nearly 40 brick-and-mortar locations over the next five years. The 152-year-old retailer will invest more than $100 million to showcase an entirely new interior aesthetic, with renovations underway in Wichita, Kansas; Fort Wayne, Indiana; Omaha, Nebraska; Livonia, Michigan; Louisville, Kentucky; Overland Park, Kansas; and Forsyth, Illinois. But that’s not all — Dry Goods, a Von Maur subsidiary launched in 2010, will open five new stores this year, including its first in Delaware, New Jersey and Virginia. Once these new stores are open, Dry Goods will have 84 locations in 24 states. Shopping Center Business recently interviewed Melody Wright, chief operating officer of Von Maur, to see what’s next for the incomparable, ever-evolving, high-end department store known for its dedication to quality over quantity — and to the customer experience — for more than 150 years.
   ...more

RSK: Since they moved into the old Boston Store Space at West Towne a few years ago, you can catch a glimpse of what the remodels will look like there.