When news broke this week of the planned closing of Macy’s historic Union Square store, many people were not just concerned about losing a retail giant, but also about the potential closure of a beloved American institution, The Cheesecake Factory.
As Macy’s owns the building, its exit could mean the end of the often-ridiculed yet wildly successful restaurant it hosts. While discussions about what Macy’s closure means for San Francisco’s downtown and the impact on the employees have been ongoing, there has been a significant public outcry to save The Cheesecake Factory.
One tweet expressed, ‘Real ones know Macy’s was nothing more than the stairs to the Cheesecake Factory.’ Another plea read, ‘You can take Macys, Nordstrom, Old Navy, Westfield, and Whole Foods…But don’t take the Cheesecake Factory.’ The sentiment was echoed by many who share a deep affection for the iconic store and its accompanying restaurant.
Amidst the uncertainty, employees of The Cheesecake Factory have yet to receive any information from their managers regarding how the closure of Macy’s might impact them. Despite several requests for comment, representatives of the Southern California-based company have not responded. However, it is reported that Macy’s exit will take years to complete, offering some solace to the employees during this uncertain time.
For many employees, working at The Cheesecake Factory has been a stable and reliable source of income. One server, who has been at the location for over a decade, expressed her concerns about the potential closure, stating, ‘Maybe I should have been looking for a new job all this time, but why leave something where I know exactly what I’m going to get?’
Despite the challenges faced by the retail industry, The Cheesecake Factory has managed to thrive. The company reported a record $3.3 billion in revenue in 2022 and continued to perform well even during the pandemic. With sales totaling $877 million in the last quarter, the company exceeded Wall Street estimates and remains on a positive trajectory.
While the future of Macy’s Union Square store remains uncertain, the fate of The Cheesecake Factory has also become a topic of concern for many who hold a special place for this iconic establishment.
