Department stores are typically large compared to specialty stores. These stores are departmentalized both physically and organizationally and give a variety of features and services to the consumers. Some of the consumers prefer the famous branded department stores as they can expect different features therein as offers, discounts or door delivery services. These factors clearly show the consumers' expectations and their brand preferences towards department stores. This research article suggests better ways and means to improve the services of department stores.

Department stores carry a wide selection of products, including furniture, clothing, home appliances, housewares and depending on the size of the operation, a good many other products as well. These stores are departmentalized both physically and organizationally. Each department is operated largely as separate entity headed by a buyer, who has considerable independence and authority in buying and selling products and who is responsible for the department's profits.

According to the International Association of Department store, a department store must have at least 2500 sq. meters of space (26,900 sq.ft). Furthermore, it must offer a product range that is both wide and deep in several product categories. The Association estimates that there were around 960 such stores in the EU in 1990, a slight decline from 1112 in 1980.

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