An radical shift in consumer psychology is threatening the future of Nordstrom, Macy's, and JCPenney

The department stores that once ruled the world are struggling to keep up with discount retailers.  An emerging trend in consumer psychology is contributing to the shift toward discounting, according to Neil Saunders, CEO at industry analysis firm Conlumino.  "The consumer mood for bargains and deals remains undiminished," Saunders said. "In both the UK and the US we continue to see very strong demand for great value as well as for great quality." Consumers will happily eschew the traditiona...