Step 1: Meaning of a department store:
A department store is a large retail shop that sells many kinds of goods under one roof. The store is split into departments, such as clothing, furniture, books and groceries.
Step 2: Characteristic 1: Wide range of goods:
A customer can buy almost everything in one place. This is why it is called a one-stop shop.
Step 3: Characteristic 2: Departmental set-up with central control:
Each department handles one line of goods and has its own manager. The top management controls all departments and the overall policy.
Step 4: Other points:
These stores are usually in busy city centres and offer services such as home delivery, credit and restaurants.
Final Answer:
Two characteristics of department stores are a wide range of goods in one building and division into departments under central management.