Wanamaker's department store was officially discontinued in 1995 when May Department Stores (owner of Hecht's) bought it, rebranding stores to Hecht's, then Strawbridge's, then Lord & Taylor, and finally Macy's, which closed its doors in March 2025, ending a long retail legacy in the iconic Philadelphia building that now faces redevelopment into a mixed-use space. The historic Wanamaker Organ and Grand Court remain, with new owners committed to preserving them.

Key Dates & Transitions

1994: May Department Stores acquires Wanamaker's.

1995: Wanamaker's brand is phased out; stores become Hecht's.

1997: Hecht's in Philadelphia convert to Strawbridge's.

2005: Federated Department Stores (Macy's parent) acquires May.

2006: The remaining Strawbridge's becomes Macy's.

March 2025: The final Macy's store in the Wanamaker Building closes permanently, ending the Wanamaker's era.

What Happened to the Iconic Building? After Macy's closed, the historic building at 1300 Market Street became vacant. The new owner plans to convert it into a mixed-use hub with retail, apartments, and a rooftop pool. The famous Bronze Eagle and the large Wanamaker Organ are protected landmarks and will remain in the building. The building's owner is committed to preserving the organ, with occasional public concerts held in the Grand Court.