Famous Barr becoming Macy’s in September

Famous Barr locations in Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky and Missouri will convert to Macy’s beginning in September after the completion of a merger of Famous Barr’s parent company, The May Department Stores Co., and Macy’s parent, Federated Department Stores Inc.

Federated spokesman Jim Sluzewski said no stores will be closed during the switchover, but minimal renovations may be required. “We do have a plan to improve stores over a three-year period,” he said.

Macy’s will convert close to 400 stores, approximately doubling its number of current locations.

The store manager of the local Famous Barr could not be reached for comment.

Macy’s merchandise is similar to Famous Barr’s, Sluzewski said, and it will be selected and priced for Springfield demographics.