News & Trending Shopping & Deals News

8 Department Stores That Just Aren't Worth It Anymore

Are these once stalwart retailers just past their prime?

By Amanda Machado , Edited by Calista Headrick

Updated Oct. 27, 2026

Add Us On Google

Department stores used to be the rock stars of the enclosed malls of old, enticing us with everything from stylish new jeans to cutting-edge cooking tech. But as malls have emptied, those once-thriving anchors are arguably losing their shine.

Store counts categorized under the department store category have fallen off in recent years, leaving plenty of once-dominant brands with fewer locations and tougher competition. And while nostalgia could compel us to give them another shot, it's not always worth it.

Here are the department stores that shoppers are complaining about and some of the financial mistakes that rendered them less than stellar.

Sears

There are approximately five brick-and-mortar Sears left, a pale shadow of what was once a retail juggernaut. That alone tells you that Sears doesn't appeal to shoppers much anymore, having been rendered nearly irrelevant by Amazon and Walmart.

Shoppers agree that Sears just couldn't keep up with newer and more innovative competition. Corporate mismanagement and a rush to liquidate were also cited as fatal flaws.

Shopping for cheaper auto insurance? Enter your zip code here to get started.

Macy's

Macy's has been closing stores after filing for Chapter 11 for several years in an attempt to "restructure" its business strategy. Some have called the store a "disaster," arguing that its branding is inconsistent and its inventory consists of low-quality items.

Others claim that Macy's alienates younger shoppers as it targets older demographics. Some went so far as to call the stores simply "depressing" and feel the business is a sinking ship. Harsh.

JCPenney

JCPenney still operates more than 600 stores in the U.S., though that number is down from its peak of over 2,000 outlets in the 1970s. Is the store really a shell of itself, as some say?

Common customer complaints in its post-bankruptcy era (filed in 2020) include chronic understaffing (due to pay cuts), a dearth of appealing inventory that isn't dated, and marketing rooted in empty nostalgia.

Saks

Once the pinnacle of luxury, this purveyor of designer retail items has fallen from grace, say critics. It filed for Chapter 11 protection in 2024, which is seldom a good sign for a business.

At the time of that sea change, inventory became erratic and sparse, employee turnover rose dramatically, and customer confidence plummeted, per former fans. Longtime shoppers may have a hard time trusting that the magic Saks once had will ever return.

Neiman Marcus

Like Saks, Neiman Marcus embodied luxury in America for decades, with inventory from the poshest designers. But like Saks, the changing retail habits of the country led to a decline and troves of debt. Now less than 40 stores remain.

After being acquired by Saks, Neiman Marcus has struggled, even closing its famed flagship location in its home of Dallas. Customers say the stores feel empty now, with disinterested staff and unkempt restrooms.

Nordstrom

One could argue that Nordstrom hasn't suffered as some of its department store peers have, but it's still implemented changes due to online competition, the fallout of malls, and overall economic caution.

While Nordstrom has adapted by beefing up its discount arm and online presence, its shift away from the high-end has not impressed some customers, who find its inventory lackluster. Some accuse the brand of pandering to "fast fashion influencers," a notable shift.

Don't Miss: 9 ways to tackle high grocery costs you won't hear about from your grocery store

Belk

Belk has been around for generations, but some say the department store doesn't dazzle anymore. Folks have complained about confusing store branding, tricky returns, and poor customer service at its nearly 300 locations (and online).

Employees and former employees lament how the store has gone downhill as a workplace. Some report that they felt alone on the floor without guidance or experience, while others point to a decrease in benefits. That may explain the customer service issues.

TJ Maxx

Shopping at TJ Maxx was often described as a thrilling treasure hunt, where you were sure to score a great deal on something special. However, many former fans say the thrill is, unfortunately, gone.

Complaints range from cheap-feeling inventory, generics instead of designer merchandise, and cluttered merchandising to unsanitary conditions. That includes skincare and makeup products that have been tampered with and used, remaining on the floor.

Strategies for shopping

Not every department store is past its prime. Some chains are refreshing their stores, improving service, and stocking better finds in a genuine effort to improve. If your usual spot disappoints, don't give up on them entirely, especially if they're being transparent in these efforts.

Before making a trip, know what signs point to a potentially disappointing experience. A busy, refreshed location may be worth browsing, while empty shelves and slipping service could signal it's time to go elsewhere.

Get a protection plan on all your appliances

Did you know if your air conditioner stops working, your homeowner’s insurance won’t cover it? Same with plumbing, electrical issues, appliances, and more.

Whether or not you’re a new homeowner, a home warranty from Choice Home Warranty could pick up the slack where insurance falls short and protect you against surprise expenses. If a covered system in your home breaks, you can call their hotline 24/7 to get it repaired.

For a limited time, you can get your first month free with a Single Payment home warranty plan.

Get a free quote

Bottom line

Many department stores may not have the same magic they once did, but that doesn't mean shopping has to be any less fun. Before you head out, compare prices, check reviews, and make sure the trip is actually worth it.

Sometimes a better deal is waiting at a local shop or an online store that prices to be competitive without bells and whistles. That savvy shopping could help you skip the buyer's remorse and keep more cash in your wallet for stuff you actually want.

More from FinanceBuzz:

Low spend threshold for its welcome offer
Cell phone protection benefit (subject to a $25 deductible)
Apply Now

Apply Now to take advantage of this offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
Earn a $100 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.
0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 18.74%, 24.74%, or 28.74% variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
$0 annual fee.
No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don’t expire as long as your account remains open.
Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.

5.0

Apply Now

on Wells Fargo's secure website

Read Card Review

Intro Offer

$100 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months

Annual Fee

Why we like it