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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 23, 2002
PR-087-03
www.nyc.gov


MAYOR MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG CELEBRATES
MACY'S HERALD SQUARE CENTENNIAL

Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg today celebrated the 100th anniversary of "The World's Largest Store" by unveiling a commemorative bronze plaque designed by New York City artist Gregg LeFevre. The plaque, which is displayed at the main Broadway entrance of Macy's Herald Square, is a relief work designed to celebrate the character and history of this architectural jewel. President Daniel A. Biederman of the 34th Street Partnership and CEO and Chairman of Macy's East, Hal Kahn joined Mayor Bloomberg at the ceremony.

"It's great to be a part of the Macy's Herald Square centennial celebration," said Mayor Bloomberg. "Macy's had an indelible influence on the history and personality of this City and is an integral part of the lives and shopping habits of many New Yorkers."

Opened on November 8, 1902, the Herald Square store represents the architectural splendor of turn-of-the-century New York. The company started by R.H. Macy in 1858 began as a small fancy dry goods store on the corner of Fourteenth Street and Sixth Avenue. The four-story building soon grew into the "World's Largest Store" with approximately one million square feet of selling space by implementing retail practices such as a one-price system considered to be revolutionary at the time. By the end of the first year, sales grossed almost $90,000.

"This is a very special year for us as we are about to begin our yearlong celebration of the Herald Square store's centennial," said Hal Kahn. "We are extremely honored by the recognition bestowed on us by the City of New York and the 34th Street Partnership. Macy's is and always will be a New York landmark, a national institution, and a global shopping destination."

Visited by approximately 30,000 visitors a day, Macy's Herald Square is the third most visited site in New York City following the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. The celebration of the store's centennial will take place over the course of the year with special in-store sales events.

Founded in 1858, Macy's is best known for its premier annual events, including the world-famous Macy's Thanksgiving Day ParadeTM, Macy's 4th of July FireworksTM Spectacular and Macy's Flower ShowTM.

www.nyc.gov

Contact: Ed Skyler / Lark-Marie Anton
(212) 788-2958