Nordstrom's Down December

Nordstrom Inc. (Seattle) reported that preliminary sales for December 2001 showed an overall 0.2 decrease from a year ago and a same-store sales decrease of 2.3 percent.

However, the retailer reported that same-store sales in the full-line stores increased 4.3 percent during the first six days of the men's half-yearly sales event immediately after Christmas compared to the same event in 2000.

Accounting for an adjustment in the calendar differences from December 2000 to December 2001, Nordstrom showed a slight sales increase of approximately 0.1 percent, but a same-store sales declined of about 2.1 percent. Adjusted same-store sales in full-line stores decreased in all geographic regions, but increased in the women's shoes, junior women's, cosmetics and kids wear merchandise categories.

For the quarter-to-date (November and December) sales decreased 1.9 percent and same-store sales declined 3.6 percent. Nordstrom shows a sales increase year-to-date of 2.0 percent, but same-store sales have declined 2.9 percent. Final fourth quarter and annual results will be announced on Feb. 21, 2002.