Another Store Disappears

Another experience I've had in not being able to buy something I had my heart set on happened a few weeks ago in Myrtle Beach. Last summer I bought three pairs of Liz Claiborne shorts. When I started wearing them, I realized they are the style shorts I've looked for all my life. The right length. Pockets in the right place. The right fabric. Just a bit of stretch.

I decided the next time we were at the beach I would buy more of these shorts, and then I'd never have to search again. We drove to the Liz Claiborne store at the Tanger Outlet on the north end of Myrtle Beach (I'm so proud of myself to know it's "north.")  Marion let me out while he parked, and I walked straight to the Liz Claiborne store, where I have shopped countless times.

Something was wrong. The sign didn't say "Liz Claiborne." Instead it said, "Polo." Someone is confused, I thought. I was on the side of the store. I walked to the front. That sign said "Ralph Lauren." Not willing to admit defeat, I walked inside anyway, hoping maybe Liz had merged with Ralph. Not so; all I found was Polo merchandise.

No! I thought.   My store hasn't disappeared for a second time. I wanted to stand right there in middle of that store and have a good cry. Instead I controlled myself, and after asking numerous people, learned that Penney's has bought Liz. More questions to find out where Penney's is located. (On the south end.)

Remember what happened when Land's End merged with Sears? Well, as you might expect, Liz has only a tiny space in the store and none of the shorts I wanted. I wish now I had bought every pair they had in my size while the store was still there. 

Why do my favorite stores disappear?