Nordstrom Inc. (Seattle) reported a 2.9 percent increase in sales for the five-week period ending April 5, 2003. A same-store sales decrease of 1.7 percent was said to be in line with the company's recently revised expectations.
Same-store sales in full-line stores increased in the central states and East Coast, but decreased in the Northwest and Southwest.
By merchandise division, same-store sales increased in cosmetics, accessories and women's active wear, while women's shoes and the designer and bridge segments of women's apparel were flat for the month.
Preliminary quarter-to-date figures (starting February 1, 2003) show sales are up 2.7 percent but same-store sales are down 1.9 percent.
Since last year, the company reports, it has added 12 stores — six full-line stores and two Nordstrom Racks, and has increased gross square footage by 6.7 percent.