Macy’s reports earnings: 5 things we learned about the retailer’s future

1. MIXED BAG "Macy's has presented a rather mixed bag of results, with gains on the bottom line overshadowed by the continuing slide in sales," said GlobalData Retail Managing Director Neil Saunders in a note to clients. "The company needs to move further, faster and in a more coordinated way if it is to transform its fortunes."

» RELATED: Cabela’s offers discount on ammo, firearms for veterans this weekend

2. SALES DECLINED Sales in the third quarter of 2017 totaled $5.3 billion, a decrease of 6.1 percent, compared with sales of $5.6 billion in the third quarter of 2016. The year-over-year decline in total sales reflects, in part, the closure of stores previously announced by the company.

3. OPERATING INCOME Macy's operating income for the third quarter of 2017 totaled $121 million, or 2.3 percent of sales, compared to $107 million, or 1.9 percent of sales, for the third quarter of 2016. Operating income for the third quarter of 2017 totaled $176 million, or 3.3 percent of sales, excluding restructuring and other costs of $33 million and non-cash retirement plan settlement charges of $22 million.

4. DISCOUNT STORES Macy's is committed to its Backstage locations, a discount retail concept. "Macy's remains intensely focused on executing all aspects of our North Star Strategy. We expect continued improvement in our trends in the fourth quarter, including a solid lift from loyalty and digital, and intend to head into 2018 with momentum," Jeff Gennette, CEO of Macy's.

» RELATED: Buy one, get on free: Starbucks unveils another new holiday drink

5. HOLIDAY SHOPPING "We are excited about our plans for holiday, which is when Macy's truly shines as a gifting destination. The loyalty program, special in-store experiences and a strong mobile and online presence will help drive holiday sales. We are bringing our fashion authority to bear on holiday trends and have a strong product assortment," said Jeff Gennette, CEO of Macy's.

FIVE FAST BUSINESS READS

• Dorothy Lane Market launches new ordering app

• 3 retailers coming to The Greene in Beavercreek

• UberEATS launches food delivery services in Dayton

• Dayton retailer brings Southern culture to Ohio

• Ohio ranks among top 15 fattest states in America