A new type of store for Macy's

Macy's has opened a new store in Phoenix's East Valley that is the first of a new format:

For starters, the store is only one level and 122,000 square feet - smaller than a typical store - making it easier to shop, she said.

It's also designed with four entryways and extra-large dressing rooms featuring waiting areas with televisions. The store also features price-checking stations where customers can scan merchandise.

In terms of size and the single-story layout, Macy's seems to be taking a cue from Kohl's. Additional stores of this type are coming soon to Texas, Idaho, and Montana.

I'm not bullish on the department store channel, but it's good to see them still trying to find something that works.