Despite concerns and earlier reports, the iconic Macy’s store located on O’Farrell Street in San Francisco’s Union Square was notably absent from the recent list of store closures announced by the retail giant. This flagship location, a cornerstone of San Francisco shopping for nearly a century, had been previously identified as potentially facing closure as part of Macy’s plan to shutter 30% of its stores by 2027.
Image: Shoppers browse storefront displays outside Macy’s O’Farrell Street San Francisco on Black Friday, indicating continued operation.
Initial reports last February suggested the Union Square Macy’s, situated at 170 O’Farrell St., was among those slated for closure. However, subsequent information clarified that Macy’s intends to maintain operations at this location while seeking a buyer for the valuable real estate it owns. This update brought a mix of relief and uncertainty to San Francisco residents and city officials who have long considered Macy’s an integral part of the city’s identity.
The Union Square store boasts a rich history, having first opened its doors in 1929 under the name O’Connor, Moffat & Co. Over the decades, it has become one of Macy’s largest and most historically significant locations, anchoring the renowned Union Square shopping district. The initial announcement of potential closure sparked immediate reactions, including a statement from then-Mayor London Breed expressing the sentiment, “It’s hard to think of Macy’s not being part of our city anymore.”
Image: Mayor London Breed addresses media regarding the importance of Macy’s Union Square San Francisco to the city’s retail landscape.
The holiday season prior to the closure speculation was tinged with uncertainty, as San Franciscans wondered if Christmas celebrations centered around Macy’s Union Square might be the last. This concern arose amidst broader challenges facing the Union Square area, which has experienced difficulties since the pandemic, including a notable retail crime surge in 2021. Incidents like the armed robbery of 49ers rookie Ricky Pearsall in the neighborhood last summer further highlighted the area’s struggles and added to the anxieties surrounding the future of retail in Union Square.
While the Macy’s O’Farrell Street flagship store has been spared from the immediate closure list, several other Macy’s locations in Northern California are facing shutdown. These include stores in Newark, Corte Madera, downtown Sacramento, and Citrus Heights. Notably, the Macy’s Furniture Gallery in San Mateo has already ceased operations, consolidating with the Hillsdale Mall store.
Image: A partial view of Macy’s official store closure list, indicating closures in Northern California but excluding the O’Farrell Street San Francisco location.
For now, the Macy’s at O’Farrell Street in San Francisco Union Square remains open, continuing its legacy as a major shopping destination. However, with the company actively seeking a real estate buyer, the long-term future of this beloved San Francisco institution remains subject to change, prompting ongoing attention from shoppers and city stakeholders alike.
