Marshall Field (1834-1906) was an entrepreneur, innovator and founder of Marshall Field and Company. The store’s reputation for quality merchandise and elite customer service for generations was brilliant. The store overcame fires in 1877 and the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.
The store flourished until 2006 when Macy’s purchased it and changed the name. Then they changed merchandise and the experience with a completely different management style.
The spirit of Marshall Field’s lives on though a group called Field’s Fans Chicago. They hold events to urge the return of Marshall Field’s. They desire a return to great merchandise and customer service of the past.
The business model of Marshall Field & Company:
“To do the right thing, at the right time, in the right way; to do some things better than they were ever done before; to eliminate errors; to know both sides of the question; to be courteous; to be an example; to work for the love of work; to anticipate requirements; to develop resources; to recognize no impediments; to master circumstances; to act from reason rather than rule; to be satisfied with nothing short of perfection.”
Marshall Field‘s Twelve Priceless Qualities of Success:
1) The value of time.
2) The success of perseverance.
3) The pleasure of working.
4) The dignity of simplicity.
5) The worth of character.
6) The power of kindness.
7) The influence of example.
8) The obligation of duty.
9) The wisdom of economy.
10) The virtue of patience.
11) The improvement of talent.
12) The joy of originating.
Marshall Field Quotes:
Give the lady what she wants! – Marshall Field Quotes
Right or wrong, the customer is always right. – Marshall Field Quotes
Goodwill is the only asset that competition cannot undersell or destroy. – Marshall Field Quotes
The distance is nothing; it’s only the first step that is difficult. – Marshall Field Quotes
I have tried to make all my acts and commercial moves the result of definite consideration and sound judgment. There were never any great ventures or risks. I practiced honest, slow-growing business methods, and tried to back them with energy and good system. – Marshall Field Quotes
Those who enter to buy, support me. Those who come to flatter, please me. Those who complain, teach me how I may please others so that more will come. Only those hurt me who are displeased but do not complain. – Marshall Field Quotes
Marshall Field grave site
Marshall Field grave site