I liked what he was trying to do, but he may have been too upscale for what that JC Penny as brand has become. Also the fact that JC Penny was based in Texas is just a bad omen for a company focused on making retail fashion exciting.
Texas is known for many things, but not fashion. Neiman Marcus is more about luxury goods than fashion. JC Penney is more about the clothing, and even with the lower end of the market you still have to follow trends. Also you have to attract talent: And I just don't see people with a fashion sense running to Texas for the opportunities. And yes you can be an exception to the rule — but then you have to really work hard at it.
