Gottschalks keeps an eye on Mervyn's and Kohl's

By Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 5/26/2004 12:00:00 AM

FRESNO, Calif. — Regional department store Gottschalks, with over 70 stores in six Western states, is holding its own against tough competition from Kohl's, while keeping a close eye on the fate of another competitor, Mervyn's, the company stated during its first quarter conference call late yesterday.

Target Corp.'s Mervyn's, along with Marshall Field's, is up for sale, but a buyer has yet to be announced.

Regarding Mervyn's, Famalette said the situation could gain some clarity in the next 60 days, if the company finds a buyer. If Mervyn's is carved up as a real estate package, Gottschalks could benefit.

"We are interested in some of their locations," said Jim Famalette, CEO. "It would allow us to get into some markets where no opportunity currently exists because of no-growth policies."