Dillards

Tradition is trying to catch up with the times at Dillard's. Sandwiched between retail giant Macy's and discount chains such as Kohl's , Dillard's is rethinking its strategy and trimming its store count. The department store chain operates about 270 locations (down from 330 in 2005) in some 30 US states, covering the Sunbelt and the central US. Its stores cater to middle- and upper-middle-income women, selling name-brand and private-label merchandise with a focus on apparel and home furnishings. Women's apparel and accessories account for nearly 40% of its sales. Founded in 1938 by William Dillard, family members, through the W. D. Company, control the company.