Not only is super-store Barneys New York for sale (for half a billion bucks, give or take), but people are talking it up like it's a money mill. Right. That's why a majority share got snapped up in a bargain bankruptcy sale for $240 mil in 1999. Oh, but the enthusiasm is so contagious! And the staff is so cute!

"There's a ton of money looking for a place to go, if it makes sense,'' said Barry Kieselstein-Cord, the jewelry and accessories designer, who expressed interest in buying the store, along with an equity group.

Oh, it makes sense all right! We're heading out the door right this minute — we've got rent to pay!
To Sell Barneys, Sure, the Price Must Be Right, but Also the Fit [NYT]