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Nordstrom
Annual Report 2001

JWN · NYSE Consumer Cyclical
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Ticker JWN
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Industry Department Stores
Employees 10,000+
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FY2001 Annual Report · Nordstrom
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2001 ANNUAL REPORT

[why this store. why now.]

20200324 NORDSTROM
2001 Annual Report • VERSION 
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Financial Highlights

Dollars in thousands except per share amounts

Fiscal Year 

Net sales
Earnings before income taxes
Net earnings
Basic earnings per share
Diluted earnings per share
Cash dividends paid per share

Stock Prices
Fiscal Year

First Quarter
Second Quarter
Third Quarter
Fourth Quarter

2001

2000

% Change

$5,634,130
204,488
124,688
.93
.93
.36

2001

$5,528,537
167,018
101,918
.78
.78
.35

1.9
22.4
22.3
19.2
19.2
2.9

2000

high

low

high

low

21.17
22.75
22.97
25.50

15.60
17.00
13.80
14.25

34.50
30.00
19.50
21.00

18.25
16.56
14.19
14.88

Nordstrom, Inc. common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange NYSE Symbol JWN

Comparable Store Sales % Change
Total Sales % Change

•

•

Sales per Square Foot

%
8
9

.

•

%
6
7.

•

%
4
1

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.

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6
5

.

•

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4
4

.

•

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5
8

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7
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-

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4
8

.

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2

.

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0
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.

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3
0

.

•

91      92        93       94    

95      96  

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99  

00  

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91     92     93     94     95     96    97   98   99   00  

01

SG&A as a % of Sales

Diluted Earnings per Share

.

%
6
1
% 3
•
6
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.

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••••

91    92    93 

94     95 

96     97    98

99   00  

01

91 

92    93   94    95     96     97    98 

99   00  

01

Index

9 Management’s Discussion and Analysis

19 Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

40 Officers of the Corporation 

16 Consolidated Statements of Earnings

20 Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

and Executive Team

17 Consolidated Balance Sheets

37

Independent Auditors’ and Management Report

41 Board of Directors and Committees

18 Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity

38 Eleven-Year Statistical Summary

42 Retail Store Facilities

1 NORDSTROM INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

View this entire report online. Please visit www.nordstrom.com to see this report and obtain the latest available information.

44 Shareholder Information

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why Nordstrom? 

What is it that makes this
company uniquely positioned 
to not only survive, but thrive, 
in today’s uncertain economic
environment? Good question.

At Nordstrom, we truly believe
we have something special to
offer. Most notably, we have 
a team of really incredible
people all dedicated to
enhancing our reputation 
and improving the way we do
business on a daily basis. 
So who better to answer
questions about the state of our
company than the folks
ultimately responsible for
making it all happen.

20200324 NORDSTROM
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Q: What is Nordstrom 
doing differently in response to the
challenging state of retail today?

AA:: "Today, from a merchandising standpoint, it’s all about great items. Styles customers can really get excited
about.  Things  I  get  excited  about.  To  me,  that’s  the  definition  of  customer  service.  When  the  customer  leaves

the store with a big smile on her face because she found just what she was looking for. Or maybe she picked up

something  that  just  caught  her  eye.  Something  she  couldn’t  resist.  At  Nordstrom,  we  carry  a  huge  selection.

Both name brands and private labels. Stock a ton of sizes. And these days value is a big part of the equation.

The customer needs to feel she’s getting her money’s worth. Whether it’s a $50 pair of shoes or a $250 pair of

shoes,  I  need  to  make  sure  it’s  the  best  pair  of  shoes  available  for  that  price.  When  all  is  said  and  done,  we

want every customer to walk away feeling really good about what they bought.”

GENIE YAO

BP. SHOES BUYER  

Northern California  

13 YEARS OF SERVICE

2   NORDSTROM INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

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AA:: "I  work  in  Encore,  our  plus-size  department,  and  some  women  come  in  not  feeling  that  good  about
themselves. But I tell them we don’t allow that here. It’s not allowed. So lift your head up when you come

into  my  department.  And  when  we  get  to  the  counter  it’s  like  a  little  party.  Women  are  laughing  and

conversing,  and  it’s  just  a  whole  new  experience  for  them.  We  discuss  things.  It’s  uplifting.  I  think  that

brings  them  back  here  even  during  times  we’re  going  through  right  now.  Maybe  more  so.  So  to  answer

the  question  are  we  doing  anything  different?  Maybe  there  is  a  renewed  sense  of  community  and  a

greater appreciation for the people we interact with. More of a connection. But really that’s the way we’ve

always gone about it. Sure we’re selling clothes. But it’s more about the relationships. About listening to

customers  and  caring  enough  to  make  them  feel  good.  And  that  makes  me  feel  good.  I’m  proud  to  be

working  for  a  family-owned  business  that  truly  appreciates  its  customers — and  allows  its  sales

associates the freedom to do whatever it takes to ensure their satisfaction."

SUE BAKER

ENCORE SALESPERSON 

Indianapolis, Indiana

6 YEARS OF SERVICE

NORDSTROM INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES   2

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Q: What are the key benefits you expect
to realize with Perpetual Inventory?

AA:: “First and foremost, we view Perpetual
Inventory as a tool — a very powerful tool
that  will  ultimately  allow  us  to  better
serve  the  customer.  It  will  accomplish
this  in  many  ways.  The  big  plus  at  the
point  of  sale  will  be  our  ability  to  track
down and transfer an item for a customer
much  more  quickly  and  efficiently.  The
obvious  byproduct  of  this  greater
efficiency  is  expense  savings.  Our  legacy
system  was  very  manual.  With  the  new
system,  there’s  no  more  paperwork.  In
the  end,  we’ll  save  time.  We’ll  save
money.  We’ll  have  more  time  to  spend
with that customer.

At  its  core,  Perpetual  Inventory  is  a
merchandising  system.  Basically,  it  will
give our buyers the ability to make better
decisions about the products they buy for
our stores. If they know more about what
they’re  selling  by  store,  by  size  and  by
color,  they  will  be  able  to  make  better
decisions about what to buy in the future.
What’s  more,  they’ll  be  able  to  more
effectively  manage  their  inventory,  and
react to trends a lot faster.

Right  now,  there’s  definitely  a  lot  of
learning  going  on,  but  in  general  the
implementation  is  going  very  well.  When
all  is  said  and  done,  Perpetual  Inventory
undoubtedly  will  have  a  positive  impact
on the way we run our business, but only
to  the  extent  that  it  allows  us  to  be  a
better,  smarter,  more  efficient  retailer.
And better serve our customers."  

TONJA KUNTZ

VICE PRESIDENT 

CORPORATE MERCHANDISE MANAGER 

Women’s Active Sportswear/Hosiery/Lingerie

14 YEARS OF SERVICE

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Q: How does
Nordstrom
transfer the
company’s core
values to new
markets?

AA:: "At  Nordstrom,  we’re  not  only  trying  to  build  long-term  relationships  with  our  customers,  we’re
building lasting relationships with our employees as well. And that’s how the culture thrives. All of my

managers,  my  mentors,  have wanted  me  to  succeed.  That’s  something  you really feel  around  here.  In

fact,  they  recommended  me  for  the  manager  position  here  in  Tampa.  So  I  made  the  move.  Now  I’m

passing  my  knowledge  and  experience  on  to  the  next  generation.  Ultimately,  I  want  the  people  on  my

team to go on to Orlando or Coral Gables when we open those stores. I think that’s what it’s really all

about. By promoting from within, we’re grooming people for what they really want to do. We’re creating

new leaders. And that’s an awesome feeling, because you’re also working toward the company’s goals.

In the end, everyone wins."

JAIME FERNANDEZ

MEN’S FURNISHINGS

DEPARTMENT MANAGER 

Tampa, Florida

4 YEARS OF SERVICE

NORDSTROM INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES   5

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Q: What is the company
doing to bring expenses 
under control?

A: "Speaking from an operations perspective, I think we have established clarity on exactly what we need

to invest in.  As you might imagine, we are focusing our resources on the customer experience — what they

see,  what  they  feel  when  they  walk  into  our  stores.  To  that  end,  we  engaged  in  some  pretty  in-depth

analysis on what is at the core of our long-term operational strategy. After deciding on the things it made

sense committing to, we made sure we could deliver them with a quality/cost balance. It all boils down to

best  practices.  Leveraging  our  size  to  make  smarter  purchases.  Looking  at  our  distribution  network  and

utilizing  it  to  service  the  stores  more  efficiently.  The  bottom  line  in  operations,  we  feel  that  if  we  can

deliver  our  product  to  store  managers,  regional  managers,  merchandisers,  front-line  salespeople  in  a

manner  that  is  essentially  transparent  to  them,  they  will  be  free  of  distractions  in  their  interactions  with

the customers in our stores.”

MIKE SATO

VICE PRESIDENT

Full-Line Stores Operations

17 YEARS OF SERVICE

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Q: What is Nordstrom 
doing to enhance the
customer experience?

A: "Nordstrom has always been defined by the customer experience — and it’s this experience that draws

customers in and keeps them coming back. As a company, it’s what we all focus on. From the buyers who

buy  the  clothes,  to  people  who  stock  the  shelves.  And  of  course,  there’s  our  salespeople.  We  pride

ourselves on having the best in the business. My job is to remove any barriers that would keep them from

making the customer happy. To give them the tools they need, and then get out of the way. As for the store

itself,  I  think  we  have  done  a  better  job  recently  defining  the  merchandise  offering  in  each  of  our

departments, which makes it easier for customers to find what they’re looking for. I also think the buyers

have done a good job of taking all the feedback—and they get a lot—and adjusting the merchandise mix to

reflect what our customers really want."

MICHELLE HAGGARD

STORE MANAGER 

Riverside, California

10 YEARS OF SERVICE

NORDSTROM INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES   7

20200324 NORDSTROM
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Dear Customers, Employees and Shareholders,
Dear Customers, Employees and Shareholders,

At  Nordstrom,  nothing  is  more  important  than  the  connection  between  our
salespeople  and  customers.  For  this  relationship  to  flourish,  our  customers  must
believe we are sincere in our desire to make their shopping experience as enjoyable
and  rewarding  as  possible.  And  our  folks  on  front  lines  must  feel  that  they  are
empowered to not only meet, but exceed our customers’ expectations. 

Over the past 12 months, we have made significant progress in our goal to regain the
trust and goodwill of these two key groups. As we’ve increased our focus on the front
lines, we have also reviewed many of our operating procedures and practices to make
sure  our  time  and  energy  are  well  spent  —  all  while  building  upon  the  core  values
that define our culture and differentiate our position in the marketplace.

I’ve highlighted some of our more noteworthy accomplishments below.

• We’ve worked to clarify the offering in each of our lifestyle departments, making it
easier  for  customers  to  find  the  items  that  appeal  to  them,  while  providing  more
balance to our overall merchandise mix.

• We’ve improved on getting the right item, at the right time, at the right price in each

of these departments, which is helping to drive volume.

• We’ve  finished  testing  and  begun  implementation  of  our  Perpetual  Inventory
system,  a  vital  merchandising  tool  that  will  provide  us  with  information  to  make
smarter decisions throughout the selling process, and better serve our customers.

• We’ve  streamlined  back-of-the-house  operations,  saving  valuable  time  and  effort,

while also helping us achieve significant reductions in our overall costs.

There  is  no  doubt  that  none  of  these  things  would  have  been  possible  without  the 
focus  and  dedication  of  our  entire  team.  Through  their  efforts,  we  believe  we  are
getting back on track regarding what it is that makes Nordstrom unique and special.
But  we  realize  there  is  still  more  work  to  be  done.  Obviously,  these  are  challenging
times,  and  consumers  have  many  choices  when  it  comes  to  spending  their  hard-
earned  money.  At  Nordstrom,  we  need  to  make  sure  that  we  are  providing  real,
tangible reasons why they might choose to shop with us. We must continue to hone
our  listening  skills,  and  maintain  a  sense  of  urgency  when  responding  to  our
customers’ needs. I’m confident we’re doing just that.

Sincerely,

Blake W. Nordstrom
PRESIDENT

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Overview

Net Sales (in millions)

Earnings for 2001 (the fiscal year ended January 31, 2002) for

Nordstrom, Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”)

increased by 22% as compared to 2000.  This increase was

primarily attributable to nonrecurring charges experienced in 

the prior year.  Excluding nonrecurring charges, earnings for 

2001 declined by 8.4% due in large part to the slowing economy.

The Company experienced a modest increase in net sales due to 

the opening of new stores but comparable store sales (sales from

stores open at least one full fiscal year) declined.  Gross profit as 

a percent of sales also declined primarily due to higher markdowns

taken to increase sales and liquidate excess inventories.  Selling,

general and administrative expenses as a percent of sales declined

as a result of focused ef forts in 2001 to reduce costs.

$6,000

$5,500

$5,000

$4,500

$4,000

5
6
8
,
4
$

9
4
0
,
5
$

9
4
1
,
5
$

9
2
5
,
5
$

4
3
6
,
5
$

1997    1998    1999    2000

2001

In 2002 (the fiscal year ending January 31, 2003), the Company 

Year over year net sales percentage increases and comparable store

plans to focus on sales growth, managing merchandise inventory

sales percentages are as follows:

levels, controlling expenses, and making disciplined capital

Fiscal Year

investment decisions.  The Company will also strive to build on 

its core values of customer service and delivering the right mix 

of quality merchandise at the right price. 

Net sales increase

Comparable store sales

2001

1.9%

(2.9%)

2000

1999

7.4%

0.3 %

2.0%

(1.1%)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The net sales increase of 1.9% in 2001 was due to new store

openings.  During 2001, the Company opened four Nordstrom 

full-line stores, eight Nordstrom Rack stores and three Façonnable

boutiques.  The increases in net sales were of fset by negative

Percentage of 2001 Sales by Merchandise Category

comparable store sales and a decline in sales at Nordstrom.com.

Children’s Apparel

and Accessories 4%

Other 3%

Men’s Apparel and

Furnishings 18%

Comparable store sales in the first half of the year were lower 

by 1.3% and in the second half of the year were lower by 4.4%.  

The decline in the second half of 2001 was largely due to the

overall slowdown in the economy.  The most significant sales

Women’s Apparel 35%

declines were in men’s apparel and shoes while women’s apparel 

was essentially f lat.

Shoes 19%

Net sales increased 7.4% in 2000 due to new store openings.

During 2000, the Company opened six Nordstrom full-line stores

and ten Nordstrom Rack stores.  Comparable store sales were

essentially f lat in 2000, with increases in shoes, cosmetics 

and accessories of fset by decreases in women’s apparel.  

The decrease in women’s apparel was primarily attributable 

Women’s Accessories 21% 

to a change in product mix. 

NORDSTROM INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES   9

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis

In 2002, the Company plans to open eight full-line stores, 

Excluding nonrecurring charges, selling, general and administrative

four Nordstrom Rack stores and two Façonnable boutiques,

expenses as a percentage of net sales decreased in 2001 primarily

increasing retail square footage 8%. Given the continued weakness

due to a focused ef fort to control expenses in the areas of sales

in the economy, comparable store sales are planned to be f lat.

promotion, direct selling and information technology.  These

Based on the sales trend seen in the prior year, comparable store

decreases were partially of fset by an increase in bad debt on 

sales are planned to be negative in the first half of the year 

the Company’s credit cards.

and positive in the second half of the year.

Gross Profit 

Gross profit as a percentage of net sales is as follows:

In 2000, before nonrecurring charges, the increase in selling,

general and administrative expenses as a percent of sales was 

due to increased costs in the areas of direct selling, credit 

and sales promotion, related in part to store openings, and 

increased costs for information services resulting from 

Fiscal Year

2001

2000

1999

the Company’s investment in new technology.

Gross profit as a percent

Fiscal 2000 included nonrecurring charges of $23 million, 

of net sales

33.2%

34.0%

34.8%

of which approximately $10 million (pre-tax) related to the 

Gross profit as a percentage of net sales declined in 2001 

due to higher markdowns and new store occupancy expenses.  

The higher markdowns were taken to drive sales and to liquidate

excess inventory caused by the decrease in comparable store sales.

In 2000, the decline in gross profit as a percentage of sales was 

due to increased markdowns taken to liquidate excess inventory 

and increased occupancy expenses as a result of additional stores.

In 2002, gross profit as a percentage of sales is expected to 

improve moderately through careful management of inventory 

levels in relation to sales trends.  However, any improvement may 

be limited if sales trends are weaker than expected.  The Company

write-of f of abandoned and impaired information technology

projects, and approximately $13 million (pre-tax) related to

employee severance and other costs associated with a change 

in management. 

In 2002, selling, general and administrative expenses as 

a percent of net sales are expected to improve slightly as 

the Company continues its focus on expense management

while incurring higher costs related to new stores, higher

depreciation related to new information systems and 

continued high levels of bad debt. 

expects to complete the rollout of its perpetual inventory system 

Interest Expense, Net

in 2002.  The benefits of having better inventory tracking tools

Interest expense, net increased 19.7% in 2001 due to higher

through perpetual inventory should, over time, also improve gross

average borrowings, partially of fset by a decrease in interest rates.  

profit performance.

In 2000, interest expense, net increased 24.4% primarily 

due to higher average borrowings. 

Selling, General and Administrative

Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percent of net

sales are as follows:

Fiscal Year

2001

2000

1999

Selling, general and
administrative

Nonrecurring charges

Selling, general and

administrative before 
nonrecurring charges

30.6%

—

31.6%

0.4%

29.6%

0.2%

30.6%

31.2%

29.4%

10 NORDSTROM INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Service Charge Income and Other, Net (in millions)

Earnings per Share (Diluted)

1
1
1
$

0
1
1
$

7
1
1
$

1
3
1
$

4
3
1
$

0
2
.
1
$

1
4
.
1
$

6
4
.
1
$

8
7
.
0
$

3
9
.
0
$

$140

$130

$120

$110

$100

$1.60

$1.40

$1.20

$1.00

$0.80

1997    1998    1999    2000

2001

1997    1998    1999    2000

2001

Service charge income and other, net primarily represents income

Diluted earnings per share are as follows:

from the Company’s credit card operations.  Service charge income

declined slightly in 2001 due to lower interest rates, f lat credit

sales and a steady number of credit accounts.  This decline was

of fset by lower miscellaneous charges compared to the prior year.  

In 2000, service charge income increased due to higher credit sales

and increases in the number of credit accounts.  Credit sales and 

Fiscal Year 

Diluted earnings per share

Nonrecurring charges

Diluted earnings per share

2001

$.93

—

2000

1999

$.78

.26

$1.46

.04

before nonrecurring charges

$.93

$1.04

$1.50

the number of credit accounts increased as a result of a targeted

Excluding nonrecurring charges, earnings per share for 2001 were

marketing ef fort toward inactive accounts and the introduction of 

10.6% worse than 2000 primarily driven by a decline in comparable

a rewards program.  

In 2002, service charge income is planned to be higher due to a

store sales and a decline in gross profit percent of fset by decreases

in selling, general and administrative expenses as a percent of sales.

small increase in credit sales and credit accounts, and adjustments

Excluding nonrecurring charges, earnings per share for 2000 were

to interest rates charged.

Write-of f of Investment

The Company held common shares in Streamline, Inc., an 

Internet grocery and consumer goods delivery company, at 

a cost of approximately $33 million.  Streamline ceased its

operations ef fective November 2000.  During 2000, the 

Company wrote of f its entire investment in Streamline.

30.7% lower than 1999 primarily due to the decline in gross profit

percent and higher selling, general and administrative expenses,

partially of fset by higher service charge income.  

Fourth Quarter Results

Fourth quarter 2001 earnings per share were $.38 compared with

$.20 in 2000.  The prior year included a $.01 nonrecurring charge

related to the write-of f of the remaining Streamline investment.

Total sales for the quarter declined by 1.5% versus the same quarter

in the prior year and comparable store sales declined by 3.4%.  

The decline in sales was primarily due to the overall slowdown in

the economy.  Gross profit increased compared to the same quarter

in the prior year due to lower markdowns.  Selling, general and

administrative expenses improved in the quarter compared to the

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis

prior year due to lower costs in selling and sales promotion, 

At January 31, 2002, approximately $456 million has been

partially of fset by higher bad debt.  The lower selling, general 

contractually committed for the construction of new stores 

and administrative costs were the result of a focused ef fort 

or remodel of existing stores.  Although the Company has made

to control costs.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

The Company finances its working capital needs, capital

expenditures, acquisitions, and share repurchase activity with 

a combination of cash f lows from operations and borrowings. 

Management believes that the Company’s operating cash f lows,

existing cash and available credit facilities are suf ficient to 

finance the Company’s operations and planned growth for the

foreseeable future.  

Cash Flows from Operations

Net cash provided by operating activities increased approximately

$238 million in 2001 compared to 2000 primarily due to decreases

in merchandise inventories and accounts receivable.  

commitments for stores opening in 2002 and beyond, it is possible

that some stores may not be opened as scheduled because of delays

inherent in the development process, or because of the termination

of store site negotiations.

Total Square Footage (thousands)

4
1
6
,
2
1

3
9
5
,
3
1

7
8
4
,
4
1

6
5
0
,
6
1

8
4
0
7,
1

18,000

16,000

14,000

12,000

10,000

1997    1998    1999    2000

2001

Net cash provided by operating activities decreased approximately

$193 million in 2000 compared to 1999 largely due to lower 

Share Repurchase

net earnings and increases in credit card accounts receivable 

and merchandise inventories. 

In 2002, cash f lows provided by operating activities are expected 

to decrease due to increases in accounts receivable related to

increases in credit sales and inventory increases related to the

opening of new stores.

Capital Expenditures

In May 1995, the Board of Directors authorized $1.1 billion of share

repurchases.  As of January 31, 2002, the Company has purchased

39 million shares of its common stock for $1 billion, with remaining

share repurchase authority of $82 million.  The share repurchase

represents 24% of the shares outstanding as of May 1995 after

adjusting for the 1998 stock split, at an average price per share 

of $25.93.  Share repurchases have been partially financed through

additional borrowings, resulting in an increase in the Company’s

debt to capital ratio. 

The Company’s capital expenditures aggregated approximately $683

million over the last three years, net of developer reimbursements,

principally to add stores, improve existing facilities and purchase 

Dividend Policy

or develop new information systems.  Over 3.5 million square feet

of retail store space was added during this period, representing 

an increase of 25% since January 31, 1999. 

In 2001, the Company paid $.36 per share of common stock 

in cash dividends, the fifth consecutive annual dividend increase.  

The Company paid $.35 and $.32 per share of common stock 

The Company plans to spend approximately $875 million, net of 

in fiscal 2000 and 1999.  

developer reimbursements, on capital projects during the next 

three years, including new stores, the remodeling of existing 

stores, new systems and technology, and other items. 

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis

Acquisition

In 2000, the Company acquired Façonnable, S.A. ("Façonnable"), 

of Nice, France, a designer, wholesaler and retailer of high quality

consolidated balance sheets.  The Visa VFN is scheduled to expire

in April 2002.  The Company is in the process of renewing this

credit facility.

men’s and women’s apparel and accessories.  The Company paid

The Company owns a 49% interest in a limited partnership which

$88 million in cash and issued 5,074,000 shares of common 

constructed a new corporate of fice building in which the Company

stock of the Company for a total consideration of $169 million.  

is the primary occupant.  Land, building and equipment includes

The purchase also provides for a contingent payment to one 

capitalized costs related to this building of $93 million and $57

of the previous owners that may be paid after five years from 

million as of January 31, 2002 and 2001.  The Company is a

the acquisition date.  If the previous owner continues to have 

guarantor of a $93 million credit facility of the limited partnership

active involvement in the business and performance targets 

of which $89 million and $53 million is outstanding as of January

are met, the contingent payment would approximate $10 million.  

31, 2002 and 2001 and is included in other long-term debt. 

Since the contingent payment is performance based, the actual

amount paid will likely vary from this amount and will be 

expensed when it becomes probable that the targets will be met.

Debt, Available Credit and Debt Ratings

In October 2000, the Company issued $300 million of 8.95%

Senior Notes due in 2005.  These proceeds were used to reduce

short-term indebtedness, to fund the acquisition of Façonnable, 

and for general corporate purposes.  

The Company entered into a variable interest rate swap agreement 

in the third quarter of 2001.  The swap has a $300 million notional

amount and a four-year term.  Under the agreement, the Company

receives a fixed rate of 8.95% and pays a variable rate based on 

LIBOR plus a margin of 4.44% set at six-month intervals (6.85% 

at January 31, 2002).  Any dif ferences between the amounts paid

and received on interest rate swap agreements are recognized as

adjustments to interest expense over the life of the swap. 

In November 2001, the Company issued $300 million of Class A

notes backed by Nordstrom Private Label Receivables (“PL Term”).

The PL Term bears a fixed interest rate of 4.82% and has a maturity

of five years.  Both the debt and related assets of the PL Term are

included in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet.  The

Company will use the proceeds for general corporate purposes 

and capital expansion.

The limited partnership is currently refinancing the $93 million

credit facility and has signed a commitment agreement for an 

$85 million mortgage secured by the property.  The obligation 

will have a fixed interest rate of 7.68% and a term of 18 years.  

The Company expects the agreement to close in April 2002 subject

to various requirements.  The  dif ference between the amount

outstanding under the original credit facility and the new mortgage

will be funded by the Company.

In November 2001, the Company entered into a $300 million

unsecured revolving credit facility that expires in November 2004.

This credit facility replaced an existing $500 million line of credit,

that was scheduled to expire in July 2002.  As of January 31, 2002,

no borrowings have been made against this revolving credit facility.

In November 2001, the Company issued a variable funding note

backed by Nordstrom Private Label Receivables (“PL VFN”) with 

a $200 million capacity.  As of January 31, 2002, no borrowings

have been made against this note.

The Company has the following credit ratings as of the date of 

this report.

Credit Ratings

Senior unsecured debt

Commercial paper

*negative outlook

Moody’s*

Standard 
and Poor’s*

Baa1

P-2

A-

A-2

The Company has an outstanding $200 million variable funding

These ratings are subject to change depending on the Company’s

note backed by Nordstrom VISA credit card receivables (“Visa VFN”).

performance.  A significant ratings drop could result in the

In accordance with SFAS No. 140 "Accounting for Transfers and

termination of the $200 million PL VFN and the $200 million 

Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of L iabilities"

Visa VFN, and a change in interest rates on the $300 million 

this debt and the related assets are not reflected in the Company’s 

8.95% Senior Notes and the $300 million revolving credit facility.

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis

The remainder of the Company’s outstanding debt is not subject 

Put Agreement

to termination or interest rate adjustments based on changes in

credit ratings.

The holders of the minority interest of Nordstrom.com LLC, through

their ownership interests in its managing member, Nordstrom.com, 

The following table summarizes the Company’s contractual

Inc., have the right to sell their shares of Nordstrom.com, Inc. to the

obligations and the expected ef fect on liquidity and cash f lows

Company for ef fectively $80 million in the event that certain events

excluding the $93 million construction loan and any potential

do not occur.  This right would terminate if the Company provides at

liability related to the Nordstrom.com Put Agreement.

least $100 million in additional funding to Nordstrom.com, Inc. 

Less
than
1 Year

1 - 3 
Years

4 – 5
Years

Over
5 Years

Fiscal Year

Total

Long-term 

Debt

$1,330.6

$77.7

$3.0

$700.6

$549.3

Capital Leases

17.2

1.3

2.2

2.2

11.5

prior to July 1, 2002 or if Nordstrom.com, Inc. completes an initial

public of fering of its common stock prior to September 1, 2002.  

It is possible that the Company will choose not to provide the $100

million in additional funding and that Nordstrom.com, Inc. will not

complete an initial public of fering on or before September 1, 2002.

If and when the Company determines that neither of those events is

likely to occur and that the purchase of the minority interest shares

Operating 

Leases

674.1

66.9

125.2

108.5

373.5

is probable, the Company will begin to accrete, over the period

Construction 
Commitments  456.1

195.9

151.2

— 

109.0

million and the fair value of the shares.  Based on current values 

remaining prior to the purchase, the dif ference between that $80

Total

$2,478.0

$341.8 $281.6

$811.3

$1,043.3

for similar businesses, management of the Company believes that

the amount of that dif ference could range from $55 million to 

Construction commitments include $109 million shown in the 

Over 5 Years category for new stores construction.  These contracts

do not have specific due dates and may become due sooner than

$65 million.

five years.

Valuation of Intangible Assets

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

The preparation of the Company’s financial statements require 

that management make estimates and judgments that af fect the

reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, 

and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities.  On an on-

going basis, the Company evaluates its estimates including 

those related to doubtful accounts, inventory valuation, intangible

The Company is in the process of performing a valuation to

determine if there has been an impairment of the $138 million

intangible asset resulting from the purchase of Façonnable.  This is 

the Company’s only intangible asset.  The valuation is dependent 

on many factors including future performance and market

conditions.  Should this asset be impaired, a charge will be

recorded in the first quarter of 2002.

assets, income taxes, self-insurance liabilities, pensions, contingent

Realization of Deferred Tax Assets

liabilities and litigation.  The Company bases its estimates on

historical experience and on other assumptions that management

believes to be reasonable under the circumstances.  Actual results

may dif fer from these estimates under dif ferent assumptions 

or conditions.

As of January 31, 2002, the Company has $34 million of capital

loss carryforwards.  The utilization of this deferred tax asset is

contingent upon the ability to generate capital gains within the 

next four years.  No valuation allowance has been provided 

because management believes it is probable that the full benefit 

of the carryforwards will be realized. 

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Management’s Discussion and Analysis

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS 

In February 2002, the Company adopted SFAS No. 144,

In February 2001, the Company adopted SFAS No. 133,

“Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities,” 

as amended by SFAS No. 137 and No. 138.  It requires the fair 

value of all derivatives to be recognized as assets or liabilities, 

and specifies accounting for changes in their fair value.  Adoption 

of this standard did not have a material impact on the Company’s

“Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-L ived Assets.”

SFAS No. 144 retains the fundamental provisions of SFAS No. 121,

but establishes new criteria for asset classification and broadens

the scope of qualifying discontinued operations.  The adoption of

this statement did not have a material impact on the Company’s

financial statements.

financial statements.

FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION CAUTIONARY STATEMENT

In March 2001, the Company adopted SFAS No. 140 “Accounting

Certain statements made in this annual report include forward-

for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments

looking statements regarding the Company’s performance, liquidity

of L iabilities,” a replacement of SFAS No. 125 with the same title.

and adequacy of capital resources.  These statements are based 

It revises the standards for securitizations and other transfers of

on the Company’s current assumptions and expectations and are

financial assets and collateral and requires certain additional

subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual

disclosures, but otherwise retains most of SFAS No. 125’s

results to dif fer materially from those projected.  Forward-looking

provisions.  Adoption of this standard did not have a material

statements are qualified by the risks and challenges posed by

impact on the Company’s financial statements. 

increased competition, shifting consumer demand, changing

consumer credit markets, changing capital markets and general

economic conditions, hiring and retaining ef fective team members,

sourcing merchandise from domestic and international vendors,

investing in new business strategies, achieving growth objectives,

and other risks and uncertainties, including the uncertain economic

and political environment arising from the terrorist acts of

September 11th and subsequent terrorist activities.  As a result,

while the Company believes there is a reasonable basis for the

forward-looking statements, one should not place undue reliance 

on those statements. 

The Emerging Issues Task Force reached a consensus on Issue 

No. 99-20, “Recognition of Interest Income and Impairment 

on Purchased and Retained Beneficial Interests in Securitized

Financial Assets,” which provides guidance on how a transferor 

that retains an interest in securitized financial assets, or an 

enterprise that purchases a beneficial interest in securitized 

financial assets, should account for related interest income 

and impairment.  Adoption of this accounting issue for the 

quarter ended July 31, 2001, did not have a material impact 

on the Company’s financial statements.

In February 2002, the Company adopted SFAS No. 141 “Business

Combinations” and No. 142 “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.”

SFAS No. 141 requires that the purchase method of accounting 

be used for all business combinations initiated after June 30, 2001,

and establishes specific criteria for the recognition of goodwill

separate from other intangible assets.  Adoption of the accounting

provisions of SFAS No. 141 did not have a material impact on the

Company’s financial statements.  Under SFAS No. 142, goodwill 

and intangible assets having indefinite lives will no longer be

amortized but will be subject to annual impairment tests.  

Other intangible assets will continue to be amortized over their

estimated useful lives.  The Company is currently evaluating the

impact of SFAS No. 142 on its earnings and financial position. 

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Consolidated Statements of Earnings

Dollars in thousands except per share amounts

Year ended January 31,

% of

sales

2002

% of

sales

2001

% of

sales

2000

Net sales

$5,634,130

100.0

$5,528,537

100.0

$5,149,266

100.0

Cost of sales and related 

buying and occupancy

(3,765,859)

(66.8)

(3,649,516)

(66.0)

(3,359,760)

(65.2)

Gross profit

1,868,271

33.2

1,879,021

34.0

1,789,506

34.8

Selling, general and administrative

(1,722,635)

(30.6)

(1,747,048)

(31.6)

(1,523,836)

(29.6)

Operating income

145,636

2.6

131,973

2.4

265,670

5.2

Interest expense, net

(75,038)

(1.4)

(62,698)

(1.1)

(50,396)

(1.0)

Write-down of investment

Service charge income and other, net

Earnings before income taxes

—

133,890

204,488

—

2.4

3.6

(32,857)

(0.6)

130,600

167,018

2.3

3.0

—

116,783

332,057

—

2.2

6.4

Income taxes

Net earnings

Basic earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share

Cash dividends paid per share

(79,800)

(1.4)

(65,100)

(1.2)

(129,500)

(2.5)

$124,688

2.2

$101,918

1.8

$202,557

3.9

$0.93

$0.93

$0.36

$0.78

$0.78

$0.35

$1.47

$1.46

$0.32

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

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Consolidated Balance Sheets

Dollars in thousands

January 31,

Assets

Current assets:

Cash and cash equivalents

Accounts receivable, net

Merchandise inventories

Prepaid expenses

Other current assets

Total current assets

Land, buildings and equipment, net

Intangible assets, net

Other assets

Total assets

L iabilities and Shareholders’ Equity

Current liabilities:

Notes payable

Accounts payable

Accrued salaries, wages and related benefits

Income taxes and other accruals

Current portion of long-term debt

Total current liabilities

Long-term debt

Deferred lease credits 

Other liabilities

Shareholders’ equity:

Common stock, no par:

250,000,000 shares authorized;

134,468,608 and 133,797,757

shares issued and outstanding

Unearned stock compensation

Retained earnings

Accumulated other comprehensive earnings

Total shareholders’ equity

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

2002

2001

$331,327

698,475

888,172

34,375

102,249

2,054,598

1,761,082

138,331

94,768

$25,259

721,953

945,687

28,760

91,323

1,812,982

1,599,938

143,473

52,11 0

$4,048,779

$3,608,503

$148

490,988

236,373

142,002

78,227

947,738

1,351,044

342,046

93,463

341,316

(2,680)

975,203

649

1,314,488

$4,048,779

$83,060

466,476

234,833

153,613

12,586

950,568

1,099,710

275,252

53,405

330,394

(3,740)

900,090

2,824

1,229,568

$3,608,503

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Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity

Dollars in thousands except per share amounts

Common Stock

Unearned Stock
Amount Compensation

Shares

Retained
Earnings

Accum. Other
Comprehensive
Earnings

Total

Balance at February 1, 1999

142,114,167

$230,761

$(4,703)

$1,074,487

Net earnings

Unrealized gain on investment, net of tax

Comprehensive net earnings:

Cash dividends paid ($.32 per share)

Issuance of common stock 

Stock compensation

—

—

—

—

341,947

40,274

Purchase and retirement of common stock

(10,216,400)

—

—

—

—

9,577

7,221

—

—

—

—

—

—

(3,890)

202,557

—

—

(44,463)

—

—

—

(302,965)

— $1,300,545

—

202,557

$17,032

17,032

—

—

—

—

—

219,589

(44,463)

9,577

3,331

(302,965)

Balance at January 31, 2000

132,279,988

247,559

(8,593)

929,616

17,032

1,185,614

Net earnings

Other comprehensive earnings:

—

Unrealized loss on investment during period, net of tax —

Reclassification of realized loss, net of tax

Foreign currency translation adjustment

Comprehensive net earnings:

Cash dividends paid ($.35 per share)

Issuance of common stock for:

Stock option plans

Employee stock purchase plan

Business acquisition

Stock compensation, net

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

181,910

165,842

4,039

2,211

5,074,000

77,696

(14,075)

(1,111)

4,853

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

101,918

—

101,918

—

—

—

—

(45,935)

—

—

—

—

(23,461)

(23,461)

6,429

2,824

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

6,429

2,824

87,710

(45,935)

4,039

2,211

77,696

3,742

(85,509)

Purchase and retirement of common stock

(3,889,908)

—

—

(85,509)

Balance at January 31, 2001

133,797,757

330,394

(3,740)

900,090

2,824

1,229,568

Net earnings

Other comprehensive earnings:

Foreign currency translation adjustment

Comprehensive net earnings:

Cash dividends paid ($.36 per share)

Issuance of common stock for:

Stock option plans

Employee stock purchase plan

Stock compensation

—

—

—

—

186,165

541,677

19,009

Purchase and retirement of common stock

(76,000)

—

—

—

—

3,788

6,754

380

—

—

—

—

—

—

—

1,060

—

124,688

—

124,688

—

—

(48,265)

—

—

—

(1,310)

(2,175)

(2,175)

—

—

—

—

—

—

122,513

(48,265)

3,788

6,754

1,440

(1,310)

Balance at January 31, 2002

134,468,608

$341,316

$(2,680)

$975,203

$649

$1,314,488

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

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Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

Dollars in thousands 

Year ended January 31,

Operating Activities

Net earnings

2002

2001

2000

$124,688

$101,918

$202,557

Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:

Depreciation and amortization of buildings and equipment

Amortization of intangible assets

Amortization of deferred lease credits and other, net

Stock-based compensation expense

Deferred income taxes, net

Write-down of investment

213,089

4,630

(8,538)

3,414

15,662

—

Change in operating assets and liabilities, net of ef fects from acquisition of business:

Accounts receivable, net

Merchandise inventories

Prepaid expenses

Other assets

Accounts payable

Accrued salaries, wages and related benefits

Income tax liabilities and other accruals

Other liabilities

Net cash provided by operating activities

Investing Activities

Capital expenditures

Additions to deferred lease credits

Payment for acquisition, net of cash acquired

Other, net

Net cash used in investing activities

Financing Activities

Proceeds (payments) from notes payable

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt

Principal payments on long-term debt

Capital contribution to subsidiary from minority shareholders

Proceeds from issuance of common stock

Cash dividends paid

Purchase and retirement of common stock

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

22,556

215,731

(1,684)

(16,770)

(159,636)

(203)

(11,310)

12,088

413,717

(390,138)

126,383

—

(3,309)

(267,064)

(82,912)

300,000

(18,640)

—

10,542

(48,265)

(1,310)

159,415

306,068

25,259

203,048

1,251

(12,349)

6,480

(3,716)

32,857

(102,945)

6,741

(173)

(3,821)

(67,924)

17,850

3,879

(7,184)

175,912

(321,454)

92,361

(83,828)

(1,781)

(314,702)

12,126

308,266

(58,191)

—

6,250

(45,935)

(85,509)

137,007

(1,783)

27,042

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

$331,3 27

$25,259

The accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral part of these statements.

193,718

—

(6,387)

3,331

(22,859)

—

(29,854)

79,894

(6,976)

(8,880)

(76,417)

14,942

965

25,212

369,246

(305,052)

114,910

—

(452)  

(190,594)

(7,849)

—

(63,341)

16,000

9,577

(44,463)

(302,965)

(393,041)

(214,389)

241,431

$27,042

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Dollars in thousands except per share amounts

Advertising: Costs for newspaper, television, radio and other media

Note 1: Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

The Company: Nordstrom, Inc. is a fashion specialty retailer 

of fering a wide selection of high-quality apparel, shoes and

accessories for women, men and children, in the United States

through 80 Nordstrom full-line stores, 46 Nordstrom Rack and

clearance stores, 4 Façonnable boutiques and 2 free-standing 

are generally expensed as incurred.  Direct response advertising

costs, consisting primarily of catalog book production and printing

costs, are deferred and recognized over the expected life of the

catalog, not to exceed six months.  Total advertising expenses were

$145,341, $190,991 and $160,957 in 2001, 2000 and 1999.

Store Preopening Costs: Store opening and preopening costs 

shoe stores.  The Company also operates 24 Façonnable boutiques

are charged to expense when incurred.

located primarily in Europe.  Additionally, the Company generates

Cash Equivalents: Cash equivalents represent short-term investments

catalog and Internet sales through Nordstrom.com LLC and service

with a maturity of three months or less from the time of purchase.

charge income through Nordstrom Credit, Inc.

Cash Management: The Company’s cash management system

Basis of Presentation: The consolidated financial statements

provides for the reimbursement of all major bank disbursement

include the balances of Nordstrom, Inc. and its subsidiaries for 

accounts on a daily basis.  Accounts payable at January 31, 2002

the entire fiscal year.  All significant intercompany transactions 

includes $31,817 of checks not yet presented for payment drawn 

and balances are eliminated in consolidation.

in excess of cash balances. 

Use of Estimates: Management makes estimates and assumptions

Customer Accounts Receivable: In accordance with industry

that af fect the reported amounts in the financial statements and

practices, installments maturing in more than one year and deferred

accompanying notes.  Actual results could dif fer from those

payment accounts receivable are included in current assets.

estimates.

Merchandise Inventories: Merchandise inventories are stated 

Reclassifications: Certain reclassifications of prior year balances

at the lower of cost (first-in, first-out basis) or market, using 

have been made for consistent presentation with the current year.

the retail method.

Revenue Recognition: Revenues are recorded net of estimated

Land, Buildings and Equipment: Depreciation is computed using 

returns and exclude sales tax.  Revenue is recorded at the point 

a combination of accelerated and straight-line methods.  Estimated

of sale for retail stores.  Catalog and e-commerce sales include

useful lives by major asset category are as follows:

shipping revenue and are recorded upon shipment to the customer.

Buying and Occupancy Costs: Buying costs consist primarily 

of salaries and expenses incurred by the Company’s merchandise

managers, buyers and private label product development group.

Asset

Buildings

Store fixtures and equipment 

Life (in years)

5-40

3-15

Leasehold improvements

Shorter of life of lease or asset life

Occupancy costs include rent, depreciation, property taxes and

operating costs related to the Company’s retail and distribution

Software

3-7

facilities.

Shipping and Handling Costs:  The Company's costs for shipping 

and handling to customers include payments to third-party shippers

and costs incurred to store, move and prepare merchandise for

shipment.  Shipping and handling costs of $30,868, $38,062 

and $29,085 in 2001, 2000 and 1999 were included in selling,

general and administrative expenses.  

Asset Impairment:  The Company reviews its intangibles and 

other long-lived assets for impairment when events or changes 

in circumstances indicate the carrying value of these assets may

not be recoverable.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Deferred Lease Credits: The Company receives developer

impact on the Company’s financial statements. 

reimbursements as incentives to construct stores in certain

developments.  The Company capitalizes certain property, plant 

and equipment for these stores during the construction period.  

At the end of the construction period, developer reimbursements 

in excess of construction costs are recorded as deferred lease

credits and amortized as a reduction to rent expense, on a straight-

line basis over the life of the applicable lease or operating covenant.

Construction costs in excess of developer reimbursements are

recorded as prepaid rent and amortized as rent expense on 

a straight-line basis over the life of the applicable lease or 

operating covenant.

Fair Value of Financial Instruments: The carrying amount of 

cash equivalents and notes payable approximates fair value.  

The fair value of long-term debt (including current maturities),

using quoted market prices of the same or similar issues with 

the same remaining term to maturity, is approximately $1,378,000 

and $1,041,000 at January 31, 2002 and 2001.

The Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) has reached a 

consensus on Issue No. 99-20, “Recognition of Interest Income

and Impairment on Purchased and Retained Beneficial Interests 

in Securitized Financial Assets,” which provides guidance on how 

a transferor that retains an interest in securitized financial assets, 

or an enterprise that purchases a beneficial interest in securitized

financial assets, should account for related interest income 

and impairment.  Adoption of this accounting issue in the quarter

ended July 31, 2001, did not have a material impact on the

Company’s financial statements.

In July 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 “Business

Combinations.”  SFAS No. 141 requires that the purchase 

method of accounting be used for all business combinations

initiated after June 30, 2001, and establishes specific criteria 

for the recognition of goodwill separate from other intangible

assets.  Adoption of the accounting provisions of SFAS No. 141 

in February 2002 did not have a material impact on the 

Derivatives Policy: The Company limits its use of derivative

Company’s financial statements.  

financial instruments to the management of foreign currency 

and interest rate risks.  The ef fect of these activities is not material

to the Company’s financial condition or results of operations.  

The Company has no material of f-balance sheet credit risk, 

and the fair value of derivative financial instruments at 

January 31, 2002 and 2001 is not material.

At February 1, 2002, the Company implemented SFAS No. 142

“Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.”  Under SFAS No. 142,

goodwill and intangible assets having indefinite lives will no longer

be amortized but will be subject to annual impairment tests.  

Other intangible assets will continue to be amortized over their

estimated useful lives.  Prior to the adoption of SFAS No. 142, 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements: In February 2001, the

the Company’s intangible assets were amortized over their

Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards

estimated useful lives on a straight-line basis ranging from 10 

(“SFAS”) No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instruments and

to 35 years.  Accumulated amortization of intangible assets was

Hedging Activities,” as amended by SFAS No. 137 and No. 138.  

$5,881 and $1,251 at January 31, 2002 and 2001.  The Company

It requires the fair value of all derivatives to be recognized as either

is currently evaluating the impact of SFAS No. 142 on its earnings

assets or liabilities and specifies accounting for changes in their

and financial position. 

fair value.  Adoption of this standard did not have a material

impact on the Company’s financial statements.

In February 2002, the Company adopted SFAS No. 144,

“Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-L ived Assets.”

In March 2001, the Company adopted SFAS No. 140 “Accounting

SFAS No. 144 retains the fundamental provisions of SFAS No. 121,

for Transfers and Servicing of Financial Assets and Extinguishments

but establishes new criteria for asset classification and broadens

of L iabilities,” a replacement of SFAS No. 125 with the same title.

the scope of qualifying discontinued operations.  The adoption of

It revises the standards for securitizations and other transfers of

this statement did not have a material impact on the Company’s

financial assets and collateral and requires certain additional

financial statements.

disclosures, but otherwise retains most of SFAS No. 125’s

provisions.  Adoption of this standard did not have a material 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 2: Acquisition

Note 5: Income Taxes

In 2000, the Company acquired Façonnable, S.A. ("Façonnable"), 

Income tax expense consists of the following: 

of Nice, France, a designer, wholesaler and retailer of high quality

Year ended January 31,

2002

2001

2000

men’s and women’s apparel and accessories.  The Company paid

$87,685 in cash and issued 5,074,000 shares of common stock of

the Company for a total consideration of $168,868.  The purchase

also provides for a contingent payment to one of the previous owners

that may be paid after five years from the acquisition date.  If the

previous owner continues to have active involvement in the business

and performance targets are met, the contingent payment would

approximate $10,000.  Since the contingent payment is

performance based, the actual amount paid will likely vary from 

Current income taxes:

Federal

$58,122

$79,778

$130,524

State and local

6,142

11,591

21,835

Total current 

income taxes

Deferred income taxes:

Current

Non-current

64,264

91,369

152,359

(7,217)

(11,215)

(18,367)

22,753

(15,054)

(4,492)

this amount and will be expensed when it becomes probable that

Total deferred income taxes

15,536

(26,269)

(22,859)

the targets will be met.

Note 3: Employee Benefits

Total income taxes

$79,800

$65,100

$129,500

A reconciliation of the statutory Federal income tax rate to the

The Company provides a profit sharing plan and 401(k) plan for

Company’s ef fective tax rate is as follows:

employees.  The profit sharing plan is non-contributory and is fully

funded by the Company.  The Board of Directors establishes the

Company’s contribution to the profit sharing plan each year.   

The 401(k) plan is funded by voluntary employee contributions.  

In addition, the Company provides matching contributions up to 

a stipulated percentage of employee contributions.  The Company’s

Year ended January 31,

2002

2001

2000

Statutory rate 

State and local 

income taxes, net of 

Federal income taxes

35.00%

35.00%

35.00% 

3.93

.09

3.93

.05

4.06

(.06)

matching contributions to the 401(k) plan and contributions to the

Other, net

profit sharing plan totaled $28,525, $29,113 and $47,500 in 2001,

Ef fective tax rate

39.02%

38.98%

39.00%

2000 and 1999.

Note 4: Interest Expense, Net

The components of interest expense, net are as follows: 

Year ended January 31,

2002

2001

2000

Short-term debt

Long-term debt

$3,741

$12,682

$2,584

83,225

58,988

56,831

Total interest expense

Less: Interest income

Capitalized interest

86,966

(1,545)

(10,383)

71,670

59,415

(1,330)

(7,642)

(3,521) 

(5,498)

Interest expense, net

$75,038

$62,698

$50,396

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Deferred income taxes ref lect the net tax ef fect of temporary

Note 6: Earnings Per Share

dif ferences between amounts recorded for financial reporting

purposes and amounts used for tax purposes. The major

components of deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows:

Basic earnings per share is computed on the basis of the weighted

average number of common shares outstanding during the year. 

January 31,

Accrued expenses

Compensation and 

benefits accruals

Merchandise inventories

Capital loss on investment

Other

2002

2001

weighted average number of common shares outstanding during 

Diluted earnings per share is computed on the basis of the

$33,896

$33,458

the year plus dilutive common stock equivalents (primarily stock

options, performance share units and restricted stock). 

48,584

24,643

13,399

21,123

43,803

26,290

12,751

18,298

Options with an exercise price greater than the average market

price were not included in the computation of diluted earnings 

per share. These options totaled 8,563,996, 7,409,387 and

2,798,966 shares in 2001, 2000 and 1999.

Total deferred tax assets

141,645

134,600

Year ended January 31, 

2002

2001

2000

Land, buildings and

equipment basis and

depreciation dif ferences

(49,978)

(25,678)

Net earnings

$124,688

$101,918

$202,557

Basic shares

134,104,582 131,012,412 137,814,589

Employee benefits

Other

(9,771)

(10,937)

Basic earnings per share

$0.93

$0.78

$1.47

(3,195)

(3,748)

Dilutive ef fect of stock options 

Total deferred tax liabilities

(62,944)

(40,363)

and restricted stock

234,587

100,673

610,255

Net deferred tax assets

$78,701

$94,237

Diluted shares

134,339,169 131,113,085 138,424,844

As of January 31, 2002, the Company has $34,357 of capital 

loss carryforwards available to be utilized within four years to

reduce future capital gain income.  No valuation allowance has

been provided because management believes it is more likely 

than not that the full benefit of the carryforwards will be realized.

Diluted earnings per share

$0.93

$0.78

$1.46

Note 7: Investment

In September 1998, the Company made an investment 

in Streamline.com, Inc. (“Streamline”), an Internet grocery 

and consumer goods delivery company.  Streamline ceased its

operations ef fective November 22, 2000, due to failure to 

obtain additional capital to fund its operations.  During 2000, 

the Company wrote of f its entire investment in Streamline, for 

a total pre-tax loss on the investment of $32,857.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 8: Accounts Receivable

volatility and risk of the assets and are calculated using an

The components of accounts receivable are as follows: 

January 31,

2002

2001

Unrestricted trade receivables

$73,157

$716,218

Restricted trade receivables

628,271

—

Other

21,325

22,266

Allowance for doubtful accounts

(24,278)

(16,531)

Accounts receivable, net

$698,475

$721,953

Bad debt expense totaled $34,750, $20,368 and $11,707 

in 2001, 2000 and 1999. 

established formula that considers both the current interest rate

environment and credit spreads.

The following table summarizes the estimated fair value of the

securities held by the Company and certain cash f lows received

from and paid to the master trust. 

Year ended January 31,

2002

2001

Class B Certificate

Seller Retained Interest

Interest Only Strip

Principal collections reinvested 

$10,849

$11,000

47,102

1,335

42,052

3,464

Restricted trade receivables back the $300 million of Class A notes

in new receivables 

669,582

485,422

and the $200 million variable funding note issued by the Company

Gains on sales of receivables

in November 2001.  Other accounts receivable consists primarily 

Income earned on retained assets

of vendor receivables and cosmetic rebates receivable.

Cash f lows from retained assets:

Note 9: Receivable-backed Securities

Nordstrom has $200 million in outstanding debt securities (Class A)

and holds securities that represent undivided interests (Class B and

Seller Retained Interest) or residual interests (Interest Only Strip) 

Class B Certificate

Seller Retained Interest

Interest Only Strip

Servicing Fees

3,147

6,711

715

6,217

4,984

8,440

5,356

9,035

684

4,411

4,955

8,121

in a master trust.  These securities are collateralized by Nordstrom

Interest income earned on the Class B certificate, Interest Only

VISA credit card receivables that are sold to the trust on an ongoing

Strip and the Seller Retained Interest are included in service charge

basis.  The carrying amounts of the retained interests approximate

income and other on the consolidated statements of earnings. 

fair value and are included in customer accounts receivable. 

Gains or losses are recognized on the sale of VISA receivables to 

the trust based on the dif ference between the face value of the

receivables sold and the fair value of the assets created in the

securitization process.  The receivables sold to the trust are then

allocated between the various interests in the trust based on those

interests’ relative fair market value.  The fair values of the assets

are calculated as the present value of their expected future cash

f lows, which assumes the weighted average remaining life of 2.4

months, average credit losses of 7.41%, average gross yield of

17.48%, average interest expense on issued securities of 2.38%,

average payment rate of 22.04%, and discount rates of 7.75% for

the Seller Retained Interest, 13.62% for the Class B and 25.35%

for the Interest Only Strip.  These discount rates represent the 

24 NORDSTROM INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

The following table illustrates the change in fair market value

Under the terms of the trust agreement, the Company may be

estimates given independent changes in assumptions.

required to fund certain amounts upon the occurrence of specific

+10%

+20%

-10%

-20%

events.  The Company does not believe additional funding will 

be required.

668

1,339

(661)

(1,312)

—

156

—

313

—

—

(156)

(313)

Gross Yield:

IO Strip

Class B

Seller Retained Interest

Interest Expense on 

Issued Classes:

IO Strip

Class B

Seller Retained Interest

Card Holders Payment Rate:

IO Strip

Class B

Seller Retained Interest

Charge Of fs:

IO Strip

Class B

(85)

(170)

—

—

—

—

(76)

(137)

7

58

14

110

(325)

(647)

—

—

Seller Retained Interest

(136)

(271)

Discount Rate:

IO Strip

Class B

(10)

(28)

(19)

(57)

Seller Retained Interest

(71)

(142)

The Company’s continuing involvement in the securitization 

of Visa receivables will include recording gains/losses on sales 

in accordance with SFAS No. 140 and recognizing income on

retained assets as prescribed by EITF 99-20, holding both

subordinated, non-subordinated, and residual interests in 

the trust, and servicing the portfolio.

The Company also issued $300 million of receivable-backed

securities supported by substantially all of its private label credit

cards.  This transaction is accounted for as a secured financing.

171

—

—

195

Total principal receivables of the securitized portfolio on January

(18)

31, 2002 were approximately $625,516, receivables more than 

(161)

30 days past due were approximately $19,301, and charged of f

receivables for the 12 months ending January 31, 2002 were

661

$28,134.  The private label receivables also serve as collateral for 

—

a variable funding facility with a limit of $200 million.  Nothing

273

was outstanding on this facility on January 31, 2002.

19

57

142

The Company’s continuing involvement in the securitization of

private label receivables will include pledging new receivables 

to the master note trust, accounting for the transaction as a

secured financing and servicing the portfolio.

85

—

—

90

(9)

(71)

330

—

136

10

29

71

The total principal balance of the VISA receivables is $258,075 as

of January 31, 2002.  Gross credit losses were $17,050 for the 12

months ending January 31, 2002 and receivables past due for more

than 30 days were $8,170 on January 31, 2002.

The following table illustrates default projections using net credit

losses as a percentage of average outstanding receivables in

comparison to actual performance:

2002

2001

2000

Original projection 

Actual

7.66%

N/A

5.99%

6.62%

5.39%

5.46%

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 10: Land, Buildings and Equipment

Note 11: Notes Payable

Land, buildings and equipment consist of the following: 

A summary of notes payable is as follows:

January 31,

2002

2001

Year ended January 31,

2002

2001

2000

Land and land improvements

$59,141

$60,871

Average daily short-

Buildings

683,926

760,029

term borrowings

$81,647

$192,392

$45,030

Leasehold improvements

910,291

903,925

Maximum amount 

Capitalized software

46,603

38,642

outstanding

177,100

360,480

178,533

Store fixtures and equipment

1,142,169

1,172,914

Weighted average

Less accumulated depreciation

and amortization

(1,663,409) (1,554,081)

2,842,130 2,936,381

interest rate:

During the year 

At year-end

4.6%

—

6.6%

6.4%

5.8%

6.0%

1,178,721 1,382,300

At January 31, 2002, the Company has an unsecured line of 

credit totaling $300,000, which is available as liquidity support 

Construction in progress

582,361

217,638

for the Company’s commercial paper program, and expires in

November 2004.  The line of credit agreement contains restrictive

$1,761,082 $1,599,938

covenants, which include maintaining certain financial ratios. 

Land, buildings and 

equipment, net

Capitalized software includes external direct costs, capitalized

internal direct labor and other employee benefits, and capitalized

interest associated with the development of internal-use computer

software.  Depreciation begins in the period in which the software 

is ready for its intended use.  Construction in progress includes

$127,847 and $46,696 of software in progress at January 31, 

2002 and 2001.

The Company pays a commitment fee for the line based on the

Company’s debt rating.

In November 2001, the Company issued a variable funding note

backed by Nordstrom Private Label Receivables (“PL VFN”) with 

a $200 million capacity.  Interest on the PL VFN varies based 

on 30-day commercial paper rated at A1/P1.  As of January 31, 

2002, there have been no borrowings on the PL VFN.

At January 31, 2002, the Company has contractual commitments 

of approximately $456,090 for the construction of new stores 

or remodeling of existing stores.

Additionally, in connection with the purchase of foreign

merchandise, the Company has outstanding letters of credit 

totaling $77,085 at January 31, 2002.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 12: Long-Term Debt

The Company owns a 49% interest in a limited partnership that

A summary of long-term debt is as follows:

January 31,

2002

2001

completed construction on a new corporate of fice building in 

which the Company is the primary occupant.  Land, buildings 

and equipment includes capitalized costs related to this building 

Receivable-backed PL Term, 4.82%, 

of $92,952 and $57,270 as of January 31, 2002 and 2001 

due 2006

Senior debentures, 6.95%,

due 2028

$300,000

—

which includes noncash amounts of $78,003 and $41,883 as of 

300,000

$300,000

of $89,180 and $53,060 is included in other long-term debt.  

January 31, 2002 and 2001.  The corresponding finance obligation

Senior notes, 5.625%, due 2009

250,000

250,000

This finance obligation will be amortized as rental payments are

Senior notes, 8.950%, due 2005

300,000

300,000

made by the Company to the limited partnership over the life of 

Medium-term notes, 7.25%, due 2002

76,750

87,750

the permanent financing.  The Company is a guarantor of a

Notes payable, 6.7%, due 2005

100,000

100,000

$93,000 credit facility of the limited partnership.  The credit

Other

Total long-term debt

Less current portion

102,521

74,546

facility provides for interest at either the LIBOR rate plus 0.75%, 

1,429,271 1,112,296

(78,227)

(12,586)

or the greater of the Federal Funds rate plus 0.5% and the prime

rate, and matures in August 2002 (2.63% and 6.36% at 

Total due beyond one year

$1,351,044 $1,099,710

January 31, 2002 and 2001).

The Company entered into a variable interest rate swap agreement 

in the third quarter of 2001.  The swap has a $300 million notional

amount and a four-year term.  Under the agreement, the Company

receives a fixed rate of 8.95% and pays a variable rate based on

LIBOR plus a margin of 4.44% set at six-month intervals (6.85% 

at January 31, 2002).  Any dif ferences between the amounts paid

The limited partnership is currently refinancing the $93,000 credit

facility and has signed a commitment agreement for an $85,000 

mortgage secured by the property.  The obligation will have a 

fixed interest rate of 7.68% and a term of 18 years.  The Company

expects the agreement to close in April 2002 subject to various

requirements.  The dif ference between the amount outstanding

under the original credit facility and the new mortgage will be

and received on interest rate swap agreements are recognized as

funded by the Company.

adjustments to interest expense over the life of the swap.  The swap

agreement qualifies as a fair value hedge and is recorded at fair

value in other liabilities. 

In November 2001, the Company issued $300 million of Class A

notes backed by Nordstrom Private Label Receivables (“PL Term”).

The PL Term bears a fixed interest rate of 4.82% and has a

maturity of five years.  The Company will use the proceeds for

general corporate purposes and capital expansion.

Required principal payments on long-term debt, excluding capital

lease obligations and construction loan obligations, are as follows:

Year ended January 31,

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

Thereafter

$77,730

1,535

1,463

400,410

300,188

549,332

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 13: Leases

periods ranging from four to eight years, and expire ten years after

The Company leases land, buildings and equipment under

the date of grant.  

noncancelable lease agreements with expiration dates ranging 

In addition to option grants, the Company granted 273,864,

from 2002 to 2080.  Certain leases include renewal provisions 

355,072 and 272,970 performance share units in 2001, 2000 

at the Company’s option.  Most of the leases provide for additional 

and 1999, which will vest over three years if certain financial goals

rent payments based upon specific percentages of sales and 

are attained.  Employees may elect to receive common stock or cash

require the Company to pay for certain common area maintenance

upon vesting of these performance shares.  At January 31, 2002 

and other costs.

Year ended January 31,

2002

2001

2000

Minimum rent:

Store locations

$26,951

$16,907

$18,794

Of fices, warehouses 

and equipment

20,144

21,070

19,926

Percentage rent:

Store locations

8,047

9,241

7,441

Total rent expense

$55,142

$47,218

$46,161

Future minimum lease payments as of January 31, 2002 are as

follows:

Year ended January 31,

Capital
Leases

Operating
Leases

and 2001, $4,713 and $2,741 was recorded in accrued salaries,

wages and related benefits for these performance shares.

Employees who receive performance share units pay no monetary

consideration.  No amounts have been paid and no common stock

has been issued in connection with this program.  As of January 31,

2002, 518,189 units were outstanding.

The Company also granted 30,069 and 180,000 shares of

restricted stock in 1999 and 1998, with a weighted average fair

value of $32.09 and $27.75.  In September 2000, the Company

accelerated the vesting of 144,000 shares of restricted stock

resulting in compensation expense of $3,039, and also cancelled

14,175 shares of restricted stock as a result of management

changes.  In January 2002, the Company accelerated the vesting 

on the remaining 9,536 unvested shares of restricted stock,

resulting in compensation expense of $193.  At January 31, 2002,

$1,335

$66,940

there are no shares of unvested restricted stock.  

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

Thereafter

Total minimum lease payments

Less amount representing interest

Present value of net minimum 

1,120

1,120

1,120

1,120

11,470

17,285

7,851

64,480

60,680

56,191

52,285

373,517

$674,093

lease payments

$9,434

Note 14: Stock-Based Compensation

Stock Option Plan

At January 31, 2002, approximately 7,856,298 shares are 

reserved for future stock option grants pursuant to the Plan.

The Company applies Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25,

“Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,” in measuring

compensation costs under its stock-based compensation programs.

Accordingly, no compensation cost has been recognized for stock

options issued under the Plan.  Performance share compensation

expense is recorded over the performance period at the fair value 

of the stock at the date when probable that such shares have been

earned.  Restricted stock compensation expense is based on the

market price on the date of grant and is recorded over the vesting

period.  Stock-based compensation expense for 2001, 2000 and

The Company has a stock option plan (“the Plan”) under which

1999 was $3,414, $6,480 and $3,331.

stock options, performance share units and restricted stock may 

be granted to key employees.  Stock options are issued at the fair

market value of the stock at the date of grant.  Options vest over 

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Stock option activity for the Nordstrom, Inc. Plan was as follows:

Year ended January 31,

2002

Weighted- 
Average
Exercise
Price

2001

Weighted-
Average 
Exercise
Price

Shares

Shares

Shares

Outstanding, beginning of year 

8,873,342

$27

8,135,301

$28

5,893,632

Granted

Exercised

Cancelled

3,288,826

(186,165)

(1,212,110)

Outstanding, end of year

10,763,893

Options exercisable at end of year

4,533,281

19

18

25

$24

$27

2,470,169

(181,910)

(1,550,218)

8,873,342

3,833,379

21

20

28

$27

$26

2,926,368

(341,947)

(342,752)

8,135,301

3,145,393

2000

Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price

$27

31

23

30

$28

$25

The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding for the Nordstrom, Inc. Plan as of January 31, 2002:

Options Outstanding

Options Exercisable

Range of
Exercise Prices

Shares

$13 – $22

6,183,330

$23 – $32

2,479,733

$33 – $40

2,100,830

10,763,893

Weighted- 
Average
Remaining
Contractual
L ife (Years)

8

6

7

7

Stock option activity for the Nordstrom.com 1999 and 2000 Plans were as follows:

Year ended January 31,

Outstanding, beginning of year 

4,174,950

Shares

Granted

Exercised

Cancelled

41,500

—

(691,642)

Outstanding, end of year

3,524,808

Options exercisable at end of year

1,241,104

2002

Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price

$1.72

1.92

—

1.68

$1.73

$1.68

Shares

1,373,950

3,794,931

(135,000)

(858,931)

Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price

$19

27

36

$24

2001

Weighted- 
Average 
Exercise 
Price

$1.67

1.73

1.67

1.68

Shares

1,671,982

1,683,022

1,178,277

4,533,281

Shares

—

1,379,950

—

(6,000)

Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price

$20

27

35

$27

2000

Weighted-
Average
Exercise
Price

—

$1.67

—

1.67

4,174,950

$1.72

1,373,950

$1.67

703,750

$1.67

—

—

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Nordstrom.com

The Black-Scholes method was used to estimate the fair value of

Nordstrom.com has two stock option plans, the “1999 Plan” and the

the options at grant date based on the following factors:

“2000 Plan.” Vested options under the 1999 Plan are exercisable

only in the event of an initial public of fering of Nordstrom.com.  

As of January 31, 2002, the weighted average contractual life for

options outstanding was 8.2 years with exercise prices ranging 

from $1.67 to $1.92 per share.  No compensation cost has been

recognized related to the options under the 2000 plan because the

exercise price was equal to the fair value of Nordstrom.com stock 

Year ended January 31,

2002

2001

2000

Stock Options:

Risk-free interest rate

Volatility

Dividend yield

Expected life in years

4.8%

68.0%

1.3%

5.0

6.4%

65.0%

1.0%

5.0

5.7%

61.0%

1.0%

5.0

on the date of grant.  The options vest over a period of two and one-

Weighted-average fair value

half to four years and must be exercised within ten years of the

at grant date

$10

$12

$17

grant date.  Nordstrom.com LLC has also issued warrants to

purchase 2,176,250 common shares at an exercise price of $1.67

to its managing member, Nordstrom.com, Inc. The warrants expire

on January 31, 2012.  As of January 31, 2002, warrants to purchase

135,000 common shares are exercisable.

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

In May 2000, the Company’s shareholders approved the

establishment of an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “ESPP”)

ESPP:

Risk-free interest rate

Volatility

Dividend yield

Expected life in years

4.3%

68.0%

1.3%

0.5

6.0%

65.0%

1.0%

0.5

Weighted-average fair value

at grant date

$5

$6

—

—

—

—

—

under which 3,500,000 shares of the Company’s common stock 

For Nordstrom.com, the Company used the following weighted-

are reserved for issuance to employees.  The plan qualifies as a

average assumptions:

noncompensatory employee stock purchase plan under Section 

423 of the Internal Revenue Code.  Employees are eligible to

participate through payroll deductions in amounts related to 

their base compensation.  At the end of each of fering period, 

shares are purchased by the participants at 85% of the lower 

Year ended January 31,

Risk-free interest rate

Volatility

Dividend yield

of the fair market value at the beginning or the end of the of fering

Expected life in years

2002

4.5%

2001

6.2%

127.0%

121.0%

0.0%

4.0

0.0%

4.0

2000

6.0%

81.0%

0.0%

4.0

period, usually six months.  Under the ESPP, 541,677 and 165,842

shares were issued in 2001 and 2000.  As of January 31, 2002,

payroll deductions totaling $2,641 were accrued for purchase of

Weighted-average fair value

at grant date

$1.56

$1.39

$1.05

shares on March 31, 2002.

SFAS No. 123

Note 15: Postretirement Benefits

The Company has a Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan

If the Company had elected to recognize compensation cost 

("SERP"), which provides retirement benefits to certain of ficers 

based on the fair value of the options and shares at grant date 

and other select employees of the Company.  The benefits are

as prescribed by SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based

unfunded and limited to a maximum of 60% of the monthly 

Compensation,” net earnings and earnings per share would have

average compensation less the actuarial equivalent of any 

been the pro forma amounts shown below: 

monthly benefits payable under the profit sharing plan.  

Year ended January 31,

2002

2001

2000

Pro forma net earnings

$107,436

$88,460 

$192,916

Pro forma basic EPS

Pro forma diluted EPS

$0.80

$0.80

$0.68 

$0.67 

$1.40

$1.39

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

The following provides a reconciliation of benefit obligations,

Note 16: Supplementary Cash Flow Information

funded status of the SERP, as well as a summary of significant

assumptions:

January 31,

The Company capitalizes certain property, plant and equipment

during the construction period of commercial buildings which are

2002

2001

subsequently derecognized and leased back.  During the year ended

Change in benefit obligation:

Benefit obligation at beginning of year

$23,543

$23,645

January 31, 2002, the noncash activity related to the derecognition

of new stores that qualified as sale and leaseback were $75,555.

630

Supplementary cash f low information includes the following: 

Service cost

Interest cost

Amortization of adjustments

Change in additional minimum liability

1,092

2,668

1,821

7,308

2,044

688

(1,519)

Distributions

(2,021)

(1,945)

Benefit obligations at end of year

$34,411

$23,543

Year ended January 31,

2002

2001

2000

Cash paid during the year for: 

Interest (net of 

capitalized interest)

$77,025

$58,190

$54,195

Income taxes

80,689

88,911

129,566

Funded status of plan:

Under funded status

Unrecognized transitional obligation

Unrecognized prior service cost

Unrecognized loss

Accrued pension cost

Note 17: Segment Reporting

$(39,547)

$(28,964)

The Company has three reportable segments that have been

324

6,396

6,983

648

240

5,792

identified based on dif ferences in products and services of fered 

and regulatory conditions: the Retail Stores, Credit Operations, 

and Catalog/Internet segments.  The Retail Stores segment derives

$(25,844)

$(22,284)

its revenues from sales of high-quality apparel, shoes and

Balance sheet amounts:

Additional minimum liability

$(8,567)

$(1,259)

Intangible asset

6,720

888

The components of SERP expense are as follows:

accessories.  It includes the Company’s product development 

group, which coordinates the design and production of private 

label merchandise sold in the Company’s retail stores.  The Credit

Operations segment revenues consist primarily of finance charges

earned through issuance of the Nordstrom proprietary and VISA

credit cards.  The Catalog/Internet segment generates revenues 

from direct mail catalogs and the Nordstrom.com website.

January 31,

Service cost

Interest cost

Amortization of adjustments

2002

2001

2000

The measurements used to compute net earnings for reportable

$1,092

2,668

1,821

$630

2,044

688

$906

segments are consistent with those used to compute net earnings

1,952

1,013

for the Company.  The accounting policies of the operating

segments are the same as those described in the summary of

Total SERP expense

$5,581

$3,362

$3,871

significant accounting policies in Note 1. 

Assumption percentages:

The following tables set forth the information for the Company’s

Discount rate

7.25%

Rate of compensation increase

5.00%

7.50%

5.00%

6.50%

reportable segments and a reconciliation to the consolidated totals:

5.00%

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Year ended January 31, 2002

Revenues from external

customers (b)
Service charge income
Intersegment revenues
Interest expense, net
Depreciation and amortization
Amortization of intangible assets
Income tax expense (benefit)
Net earnings (loss)
Assets (a)(b) 
Intangible assets
Capital expenditures

Year ended January 31, 2001
Revenues from external

customers (b)
Service charge income
Intersegment revenues
Interest expense, net
Depreciation and amortization
Amortization of intangible assets
Income tax expense (benefit)
Net earnings (loss)
Assets (a)(b) 
Intangible assets
Capital expenditures

Year ended January 31, 2000
Revenues from external customers
Service charge income
Intersegment revenues
Interest expense, net
Depreciation and amortization
Income tax expense (benefit)
Net earnings (loss)
Assets (a) 
Capital expenditures

Retail
Stores

Credit
Operations

Catalog/
Internet

Corporate
and Other

Eliminations

Total

$5,356,875
—
20,204
994
182,960
4,630
150,921
235,815
2,564,375
138,331
373,909

—
$129,697
33,767
24,994
2,253
—
9,104
14,226
695,556
—
2,054

$277,255
—
—
77
5,498
—
—
(8,139)
69,457
—
2,554

—
—
—
$48,973
22,378
—
(80,225)
(117,214)
719,391
—
11,621

—
—

$(53,971)

—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—

$5,634,130
129,697
—
75,038
213,089
4,630
79,800
124,688
4,048,779
138,331
390,138

Retail
Stores

Credit
Operations

Catalog/
Internet

Corporate 
and Other

Eliminations

Total

$5,217,889
—
30,294
795
176,758
1,251
165,150
258,416
2,557,616
143,473
286,941

Retail
Stores
$4,914,293
—
20,285
728
170,826
191,790
300,009
2,051,327
263,352

—
$135,121
26,889
29,267
1,786
—
13,140
20,557
703,077
—
3,095

Credit
Operations
—
$125,727
25,963
26,933
1,424
19,450
30,417
601,320
2,792

$310,648
—
—
(604)
7,552
—
—
(29,367)
68,010
—
5,187

Catalog/
Internet
$234,973
—
—
(167)
6,313
—
(35,685)
95,241
5,206

—
—
—
$33,240
16,952
—
(113,190)
(147,688)
279,800
—
26,231

Corporate 
and Other
—
—
—
$22,902
15,155
(81,740)
(92,184)
314,193
33,702

—
—

$(57,183)

—
—
—
—
—
—
—
—

Eliminations
—
—
$(46,248)
—
—
—
—
—
—

$5,528,537
135,121
—
62,698
203,048
1,251
65,100
101,918
3,608,503
143,473
321,454

Total
$5,149,266
125,727
—
50,396
193,718
129,500
202,557
3,062,081
305,052

(a) Segment assets in Corporate and Other include unallocated assets in corporate headquarters, consisting primarily of land, buildings 

and equipment, and deferred tax assets.

(b) Includes sales of foreign operations of $68,487 for the year ended January 31, 2002, and $12,318 for the period from October 24,

2000, the date of acquisition, to January 31, 2001, and assets of $198,689 and $206,601 as of January 31, 2002 and 2001.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 18: Restructurings, Impairments, and Other One-Time Charges

During the year ended January 31, 2000, the Company recorded 

The following table provides a summary of restructuring,

impairments and other charges:

Year ended January 31,

Employee severance

Other expenses

2002

$1,791

—

Restructuring subtotal

1,791

Management severance

Asset impairment

Litigation settlement costs

—

—

—

$13,000

10,227

—

a charge of $10,000 in selling, general and administrative expenses

primarily associated with the restructuring of the Company’s

information technology services area.  The charge consisted of

2001

2000

$4,053 in the disposition of several software projects under

—

—

—

$2,685

1,206

3,891

—

4,053

2,056

development, $2,685 in employee severance and $1,206 in other

miscellaneous costs.  Additionally, the Company recorded $2,056

related to settlement costs for two lawsuits.  The restructuring

included the termination of 50 employees in the information

technology department.  

The following table presents the activity and balances of the

Total charges

$1,791

$23,227

$10,000

reserves established in connection with the restructuring charges:

During the year ended January 31, 2002, the Company 

streamlined its operations through a reduction in workforce 

of approximately 2,600 employees.  As a result, the Company 

recorded a restructuring charge of $1,791 in selling, general 

and administrative expenses relating to severance for 

approximately 195 employees.  Personnel af fected were 

primarily located in the corporate center and in full-line stores.  

During the year ended January 31, 2001, the Company 

Year ended January 31,

Beginning balance

Additions

Payments

Adjustments

Ending balance

2002

$178

1,7 91

2001

$1,452

2000

—

—

$3,891

(1,890)

(1,220)

(2,122)

(79)

$—

(54)

(317)

$178

$1,452

Note 19: Vulnerability Due to Certain Concentrations

recorded an impairment charge of $10,227, consisting of 

Approximately 31% of the Company’s retail square footage is

$9,627 recorded in selling, general and administrative 

located in the state of California.  At January 31, 2002, the net

expenses and $600 in interest expense.  Due to changes 

book value of property located in California was approximately

in business strategy, the Company determined that several 

$276,000.  Accordingly, the Company carries earthquake insurance

software projects under development were either impaired or

in California with a $50,000 deductible and a $50,000 coverage

obsolete.  The charges consisted of $6,542 primarily related 

limit per occurrence.

to the disposition of transportation management software.

Additionally, merchandise software was written down $3,685 

to its estimated fair value.  During the same year, the Company

accrued and paid $13,000 for certain severance and other 

costs related to a change in management. 

At January 31, 2002 and 2001, approximately 40% and 41% of 

the Company’s receivables were obligations of customers residing 

in California.  Concentration of the remaining receivables is

considered to be limited due to their geographical dispersion.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 20: Nordstrom.com Put Agreement 

Cosmetics. The Company was originally named as a defendant along

The holders of the minority interest of Nordstrom.com LLC, 

through their ownership interests in its managing member,

Nordstrom.com, Inc., have the right to sell their shares of

Nordstrom.com, Inc. to the Company for ef fectively $80 million 

in the event that certain events do not occur.  This right would

terminate if the Company provides at least $100 million in

additional funding to Nordstrom.com, Inc. prior to July 1, 2002 

or if Nordstrom.com, Inc. completes an initial public of fering of its

common stock prior to September 1, 2002.  It is possible that the

Company will choose not to provide the $100 million in additional

funding and that Nordstrom.com, Inc. will not complete an initial

with other department store and specialty retailers in nine separate

but virtually identical class action lawsuits filed in various Superior

Courts of the State of California in May, June and July 1998 that

have now been consolidated in Marin County state court.  In May

2000, plaintif fs filed an amended complaint naming a number of

manufacturers of cosmetics and fragrances and two other retailers

as additional defendants.  Plaintif fs' amended complaint alleges

that the retail price of the "prestige" cosmetics sold in department

and specialty stores was collusively controlled by the retailer and

manufacturer defendants in violation of the Cartwright Act and 

the California Unfair Competition Act.  

public of fering on or before September 1, 2002.  If and when 

Plaintif fs seek treble damages and restitution in an unspecified

the Company determines that neither of those events is likely to

amount, attorneys' fees and prejudgment interest, on behalf of 

occur and that the purchase of the minority interest shares is

a class of all California residents who purchased cosmetics and

probable, the Company will begin to accrete, over the period

fragrances for personal use from any of the defendants during 

remaining prior to the purchase, the dif ference between that $80

the period four years prior to the filing of the amended complaint.

million and the fair value of the shares.  Based on current values 

Defendants, including the Company, have answered the amended

for similar businesses, management of the Company believes 

complaint denying the allegations.  The Company and the other

that the amount of that dif ference could range from $55,000 

retail defendants have produced documents and responded to

plaintif fs' other discovery requests, including providing witnesses

for depositions.  Plaintif fs have not yet moved for class

certification.  Pursuant to an order of the court, plaintif fs 

and defendants participated in mediation sessions in May 

and September 2001.

to $65,000.

Note 21: Contingent L iabilities 

The Company has been named in various lawsuits and intends to

vigorously defend itself in those cases.  The Company is not in 

a position at this time to quantify the amount or range of any

possible losses related to those claims.  While no assurance can 

be given as to the ultimate outcome of these lawsuits, based on

preliminary investigations, management currently believes that

resolving these matters will not have a material adverse ef fect 

on the Company's financial position, results of operations or 

cash f lows.

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Washington Public Trust Advocates. In early 2002, the Company 

was named as one of 30 defendants in Washington Public Trust

Advocates, ex rel., et al. v. City of Spokane, et al., filed in the

Spokane County Superior Court, State of Washington.  Plaintif f is 

a not-for-profit corporation bringing claims on behalf of the City of

Spokane and the Spokane Parking Public Development Authority.

The claims relate to the River Park Square Mall and Garage Project

in Spokane, Washington (the “Project”), which includes a

Nordstrom store.  The portion of the complaint applicable to the

Company seeks to recover from the Company the amount of a

Department of Housing and Urban Development loan made to 

the developer of the Project.  Damages are sought in the amount 

of $22.75 million, or a lesser amount to the extent that the HUD

loan proceeds were used for the construction of the store and not 

as tenant improvements.  Other portions of the complaint seek 

to invalidate bonds issued to finance the public parking garage

serving the Project, terminate the lease of the parking garage 

by the City of Spokane, and rescind other agreements between 

the City of Spokane and the developer of the Project, as well 

as damages from the developer of the Project in unspecified

amounts.  The Complaint also alleges breach of fiduciary duties 

by various defendants, including the Company, to the people 

of the City of Spokane regarding lack of disclosures concerning 

the developer and the Project.  Unspecified damages are sought 

for this cause of action.  The lawsuit was recently filed, the

Company has not answered, and no discovery has commenced. 

Other.  The Company is also subject to other ordinary routine

litigation incidental to its business and with respect to which 

no material liability is expected.  

NORDSTROM INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES   35

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Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

Note 22: Selected Quarterly Data (unaudited)

Year ended January 31, 2002

1st Quarter

2nd Quarter

3rd Quarter

4th Quarter

Total

Net sales

Gross profit

Earnings before income taxes

Net earnings

Basic earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share

Dividends per share

Common stock price

High

Low

$1,218,040

$1,545,759

$1,239,241

$1,631,090

$5,634,130

504,851

402,280

541,530

1,868,271

419,610

40,555

24,755

.18

.18

.09

21.17

15.60

63,499

38,699

.29

.29

.09

22.75

17.00

17,095

10,495

.08

.08

.09

22.97

13.80

83,339

50,739

.38

.38

.09

25.50

14.25

204,488

124,688

.93

.93

.36

25.50

13.80

Total

Year ended January 31, 2001

1st Quarter

2nd Quarter

3rd Quarter

4th Quarter

Net sales

Gross profit

Write-down of investment

Earnings before income taxes

Net earnings

Basic earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share

Dividends per share

Common stock price

High

Low

$1,153,377

$1,457,035

$1,262,390

$1,655,735

$5,528,537

407,722

—

53,689

32,789

.25

.25

.08

34.50

18.25

502,722

(10,540)

74,501

45,401

.35

.35

.09

30.00

16.56

438,522

(20,655)

(5,520)

(3,320)

(.03)

(.03)

.09

19.50

14.19

530,055

1,879,021

(1,662)

44,348

27,048

.20

.20

.09

21.00

14.88

(32,857)

167,018

101,918

.78

.78

.35

34.50

14.19

36 NORDSTROM INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

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Independent Auditors’ and Management Report

Independent Auditors’ Report

Management Report

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance 

Management is responsible for preparing the Company’s 

sheets of Nordstrom, Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) 

financial statements and the other information that appears 

as of January 31, 2002 and 2001, and the related consolidated

in the annual report.  The financial statements have been 

statements of earnings, shareholders’ equity and cash f lows for

prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally

each of the three years in the period ended January 31, 2002.

accepted in the United States of America and include estimates

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s

based on management’s best judgment.

management.  Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these

financial statements based on our audits.

The Company maintains a comprehensive system of internal

controls and procedures designed to provide reasonable 

We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards

assurance that assets are safeguarded and transactions are

generally accepted in the United States of America.  Those

executed in accordance with established procedures.  

standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain

The concept of reasonable assurance is based on the recognition

reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements 

that the cost of maintaining the system of internal accounting

are free of material misstatement.  An audit includes examining, 

controls should not exceed the benefit derived from the system.

on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures 

in the financial statements.  An audit also includes assessing 

the accounting principles used and significant estimates made 

by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial

statement presentation.  We believe that our audits provide 

a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated financial

statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial

position of Nordstrom, Inc. and subsidiaries as of January 31, 2002

and 2001, and the results of their operations and their cash f lows

for each of the three years in the period ended January 31, 2002,

in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the

United States of America.

Deloitte and Touche LLP audits the Company’s financial 

statements in accordance with auditing standards generally

accepted in the United States of America and provides an 

objective, independent review of the Company’s internal controls

and the fairness of its reported financial condition and results 

of operations. 

The Audit Committee, which is comprised of five independent

directors, meets periodically with management and the 

independent auditors to ensure that each is properly fulfilling its

responsibilities.  The Committee oversees the Company’s systems 

of internal control, accounting practices, financial reporting and

audits to ensure their quality, integrity and objectivity are 

suf ficient to protect shareholders’ investments.

Deloitte & Touche LLP

Seattle, Washington

March 25, 2002

Michael G. Koppel

Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Of ficer

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Eleven-Year Statistical Summary

Dollars in thousands except square footage and per share amounts

Year ended January 31,

Financial Position

Customer accounts receivable, net

Merchandise inventories

Current assets

Current liabilities

Working capital

Working capital ratio

Land, buildings and equipment, net

Long-term debt, including current portion

Debt/capital ratio

Shareholders’ equity

Shares outstanding

Book value per share

Total assets

Operations

Net sales

Gross profit

2002

2001

2000

1999

$677,150

888,172

$699,687

945,687

$596,020

$567,661

797,845

750,269

2,054,598

1,812,982

1,564,648

1,668,689

947,738

1,106,860

2.17

1,761,082

1,429,271

.5209

950,568

862,414

1.91

1,599,938

1,112,296

.4929

866,509

698,139

1.81

794,490

874,199

2.10

1,429,492

1,378,006

804,982

868,234

.4249

.4214

1,314,488

1,229,568

1,185,614

1,300,545

134,468,608

133,797,757

132,279,988

142,114,167

9.78

9.19

8.96

9.15

4,048,779

3,608,503

3,062,081

3,103,689

5,634,130

1,868,271

5,528,537

1,879,021

5,149,266

5,049,182

1,789,506

1,704,237

Selling, general and administrative

(1,722,635)

(1,747,048)

(1,523,836)

(1,429,837)

Operating income

Interest expense, net

Write-down of investment

Service charge income and other, net

Earnings before income taxes

Income taxes

Net earnings

Basic earnings per share

Diluted earnings per share

Dividends per share

Comparable store sales percentage increase (decrease)

Net earnings as a percent of net sales

Return on average shareholders’ equity

Sales per square foot for Company-operated stores

145,636

(75,038)

—

133,890

204,488

(79,800)

124,688

.93

.93

.36

(2.9%)

2.21%

9.80%

321

131,973

(62,698)

(32,857)

130,600

167,018

(65,100)

101,918

.78

.78

.35

.3%

1.84%

8.44%

342

265,670

274,400

(50,396)

(47,091)

—

116,783

332,057

—

110,414

337,723

(129,500)

(131,000)

202,557

206,723

1.47

1.46

.32

(1.1%)

3.93%

16.29%

350

1.41

1.41

.30

(2.7%)

4.09%

14.98%

362

Stores

Total square footage

156

140

104

97

17,048,000

16,056,000

14,487,000

13,593,000

38 NORDSTROM INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

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1998

1997

1996

1995

1994

1993

1992

$641,862

826,045

$693,123

719,919

1,613,492

1,549,819

979,031

634,461

1.65

795,321

754,498

1.95

$874,103

626,303

1,612,776

833,443

779,333

1.94

1,252,513

1,152,454

1,103,298

420,865

.3194

380,632

.2720

439,943

.3232

$655,715

$565,151

$584,379

$585,490

627,930

585,602

536,739

1,397,713

1,314,914

1,219,844

693,015

704,698

2.02

984,195

373,910

.2575

631,064

683,850

2.08

845,596

438,574

.2934

516,397

703,447

2.36

824,142

481,945

.3337

506,632

1,177,638

558,768

618,870

2.11

856,404

491,076

.4029

927,465

1,458,950

1,457,084

1,408,053

1,330,437

1,153,594

1,038,649

152,518,104

159,269,954

162,226,288

164,488,196

164,118,256

163,949,594

163,688,454

9.57

9.15

8.68

8.09

7.03

6.34

5.67

2,890,664

2,726,495

2,732,619

2,396,783

2,177,481

2,053,170

2,041,875

4,864,604

1,568,791

4,457,931

1,378,472

4,113,717

1,310,931

3,895,642

3,591,228

1,297,018

1,121,539

3,415,613

1,079,608

3,174,822

1,007,554

(1,338,235)

(1,232,860)

(1,136,069)

(1,029,856)

(940,708)

(901,446)

230,556

(34,250)

—

110,907

307,213

(121,000)

186,213

1.20

1.20

.265

4.0%

3.83%

12.77%

384

145,612

(39,400)

—

135,331

241,543

(95,227)

146,316

.90

.90

.25

0.6%

3.28%

10.21%

377

174,862

(39,295)

—

134,179

269,746

(106,190)

163,556

1.00

1.00

.25

(0.7%)

3.98%

11.94%

382

267,162

(30,664)

—

98,311

334,809

(132,304)

202,505

1.23

1.23

.1925

4.4%

5.20%

16.30%

395

180,831

(37,646)

—

88,509

231,694

(90,804)

140,890

.86

.86

.17

2.7%

3.92%

12.85%

383

178,162

(44,810)

—

86,140

219,492

(84,489)

135,003

.82

.82

.16

1.4%

3.95%

13.73%

381

(831,005)

176,549

(49,106)

—

87,443

214,886

(80,527)

134,359

.82

.82

.155

1.4%

4.23%

15.41%

388

92

83

78

76

74

72

68

12,614,000

11,754,000

10,713,000

9,998,000

9,282,000

9,224,000

8,590,000

NORDSTROM INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES   39

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Officers of the Corporation and Executive Team 

Officers of the Corporation

Michael G. Koppel, 45

James R. O'Neal, 43

Jammie Baugh, 49

Executive Vice President,

Human Resources

MEMBER OF EXECUTIVE TEAM

Laurie M. Black, 43

Executive Vice President and

President, Nordstrom Rack

MEMBER OF EXECUTIVE TEAM

Mark S. Brashear, 40

Executive Vice President and

President, Façonnable, S.A.S.

Dale Cameron, 53

Executive Vice President,

Corporate Merchandise Manager, Cosmetics 

Full-line Stores

Executive Vice President and

Executive Vice President and

Chief Financial Of ficer

MEMBER OF EXECUTIVE TEAM

President, Nordstrom Product Group

MEMBER OF EXECUTIVE TEAM

L lynn (Len) A. Kuntz, 41

Suzanne R. Patneaude, 55

Executive Vice President, 

WA/AK Regional Manager 

Full-line Stores

Vice President, Corporate 

Merchandise Manager, Designer/ Savvy 

Full-line Stores

David P. L indsey, 52

R. Michael Richardson, 45

Vice President, Store Planning

Vice President and 

David L. Mackie, 53

Vice President, Real Estate 

and Legal Affairs

Robert J. Middlemas, 45

Executive Vice President,

Chief Information Of ficer

Karen Bowman Roesler, 46

Vice President, Marketing 

Nordstrom Credit Group

K.C. (Karen) Shaf fer, 48

Central States Regional Manager

Executive Vice President,

Robert E. Campbell, 46

Full-line Stores

Nordstrom Rack NW Regional Manager

Vice President, Strategy and Planning,

Treasurer

N. Claire Chapman, 41

Corporate Secretary

L inda Toschi Finn, 54

MEMBER OF EXECUTIVE TEAM

Bonnie M. Junell, 45

Vice President, 

Jack H. Minuk, 47

Vice President,

Joel T. Stinson, 52

Executive Vice President and 

Corporate Merchandise Manager, 

Chief Administrative Of ficer

Women’s Shoes

Full-line Stores 

President

MEMBER OF EXECUTIVE TEAM

Delena M. Sunday, 41

Executive Vice President,

Diversity Af fairs

MEMBER OF EXECUTIVE TEAM

MEMBER OF EXECUTIVE TEAM

Bruce A. Nordstrom, 68

Geevy S.K. Thomas, 37

Executive Vice President, Marketing

Blake W. Nordstrom, 41

Corporate Merchandise Manager, 

Chairman of the Board of Directors 

Executive Vice President,

Point of View, Narrative 

Full-line Stores 

Kevin T. Knight, 46

Executive Vice President, Chairman and 

Chief Executive Of ficer of Nordstrom fsb, 

President of Nordstrom Credit, Inc.

MEMBER OF EXECUTIVE TEAM

Erik B. Nordstrom, 38

Executive Vice President,

Full-line Stores

Peter E. Nordstrom, 40

Executive Vice President and 

President, Full-line Stores

MEMBER OF EXECUTIVE TEAM

South Regional Manager 

Full-line Stores

Additional Member of Nordstrom, Inc.

Executive Team
J. Daniel Nordstrom, 39

Chief Executive Of ficer, Nordstrom.com

40 NORDSTROM INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

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Board of Directors and Committees

Committees
Executive
John A. McMillan
Bruce A. Nordstrom
John N. Nordstrom

Corporate Governance 
and Nominating
D. Wayne Gittinger, Chair
Enrique Hernandez, Jr.
Alfred E. Osborne, Jr.
William D. Ruckelshaus

Audit
Enrique Hernandez, Jr.
Alfred E. Osborne, Jr.
William D. Ruckelshaus
Bruce G. Willison, Chair
Alison A. Winter

Compensation
and Stock Options
Enrique Hernandez, Jr.
Alfred E. Osborne, Jr.
William D. Ruckelshaus, Chair
Alison A. Winter

Finance
D. Wayne Gittinger
Enrique Hernandez, Jr.
John A. McMillan
John N. Nordstrom
Alfred E. Osborne, Jr., Chair
Bruce G. Willison

FIRST ROW

D. Wayne Gittinger, 69
Partner, Lane Powell Spears Lubersky LLP
Seattle, Washington

Enrique Hernandez, Jr., 46
President and CEO,
Inter-Con Security Systems, Inc.
Pasadena, California

John A. McMillan, 70
Retired Co-Chairman of 
the Board of Directors
Seattle, Washington

SECOND ROW

Bruce A. Nordstrom, 68
Chairman of the Board of Directors
Seattle, Washington

John N. Nordstrom, 65
Retired Co-Chairman of 
the Board of Directors
Seattle, Washington

Alfred E. Osborne, Jr., 57
Director of the Harold Price Center
for Entrepreneurial Studies and 
Associate Professor of Business Economics,
The Anderson School at UCLA
Los Angeles, California

THIRD ROW

William D. Ruckelshaus, 69
A Strategic Director,
Madrona Venture Group
Seattle, Washington

Bruce G. Willison, 53
Dean, The Anderson School at UCLA
Los Angeles, California

Alison A. Winter, 55
Executive Vice President for 
Midwest Personal Financial Services,
The Northern Trust Corporation
Chicago, Illinois

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Retail Store Facilities open at January 31, 2002

Redondo Beach

The Galleria at South Bay

Location

Southwest Group

Arizona

Chandler

Scottsdale

California

Arcadia

Brea

Canoga Park

Cerritos

Corte Madera

Costa Mesa

Escondido

Glendale

Los Angeles

Mission Viejo

Montclair

Palo Alto

Pleasanton

Riverside

Roseville

Sacramento

San Diego

San Diego

San Diego

San Francisco

San Francisco

San Jose

San Mateo

Santa Ana

Santa Barbara

Walnut Creek

East Coast Group

Connecticut

Farmington

Florida

Boca Raton

Tampa

Georgia

Atlanta

Buford

Store Name

Store Square
Footage

Chandler Fashion Center

149,000

Scottsdale Fashion Square

235,000

Santa Anita

Brea Mall

Topanga

Los Cerritos Center

The Village at Corte Madera

151,000

195,000

154,000

122,000

116,000

Location

Maryland

Annapolis

Bethesda

Columbia

Towson

New Jersey

Edison

Freehold

Paramus

Short Hills

South Coast Plaza

235,000

New York

North County

156,000

Garden City

Glendale Galleria

147,000

White Plains

Store Name

Store Square
Footage

Annapolis Mall

162,000

Montgomery Mall

225,000

The Mall in Columbia

173,000

Towson Town Center

205,000

Menlo Park

266,000

Freehold Raceway Mall

174,000

Garden State Plaza

282,000

The Mall at Short Hills

188,000

Roosevelt Field

The Westchester

241,000

219,000

Westside Pavilion

The Shops at Mission Viejo

Montclair Plaza

Stanford Shopping Center

Stoneridge Mall

The Galleria at Tyler in Riverside

Galleria at Roseville

Arden Fair

150,000

172,000

134,000

187,000

173,000

161,000

164,000

149,000

190,000

Fashion Valley Center

220,000

Horton Plaza

University Towne Centre

Stonestown Galleria

San Francisco Shopping Centre

Valley Fair

Hillsdale Shopping Center

MainPlace/Santa Ana

Paseo Nuevo

Broadway Plaza

151,000

130,000

174,000

350,000

232,000

149,000

169,000

186,000

193,000

Westfarms

189,000

Town Center at Boca Raton

International Plaza

193,000

172,000

Perimeter Mall

243,000

Mall of Georgia

172,000

Pennsylvania

King of Prussia

The Plaza at King of Prussia

238,000

Rhode Island

Providence

Virgina

Arlington

McLean

Norfolk

Central States

Illinois

Chicago

Oak Brook

Schaumburg

Skokie

Indiana

Indianapolis

Kansas

Overland Park

Michigan

Troy

Minnesota

Bloomington

Ohio

Beachwood

Columbus

Providence Place

206,000

The Fashion Centre at Pentagon City

241,000

Tysons Corner Center

253,000

MacArthur Center

166,000

Michigan Avenue

271,000

Oakbrook Center

249,000

Woodfield Shopping Center

215,000

Old Orchard Center

209,000

Circle Centre

216,000

Oak Park Mall

219,000

Somerset Collection

258,000

Mall of America

240,000

Beachwood Place

Easton Town Center

231,000

174,000

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Location

Texas

Dallas

Frisco

Hurst

Northwest Group

Alaska

Anchorage

Colorado

Broomfield

L ittleton

Oregon

Portland

Portland

Portland

Salem

Tigard

Utah

Murray

Salt Lake City

Washington

Bellevue

Lynnwood

Seattle

Seattle

Spokane

Tacoma

Tukwila

Vancouver

Other

Honolulu, HI

Honolulu, HI

Façonnable

Façonnable

Nordstrom Rack Group

Chandler, AZ

Phoenix, AZ

Scottsdale, AZ

Brea, CA

Chino, CA

Colma, CA

Store Name

Store Square
Footage

Location

Store Name

Store Square
Footage

Dallas Galleria

249,000

Glendale, CA

Glendale Fashion Center Rack

Costa Mesa, CA

Metro Pointe Rack

Stonebriar Centre

North East Mall

149,000

149,000

Los Angeles, CA

The Promenade at Howard 

Hughes Center Rack

Oxnard, CA

Roseville, CA

Esplanade Shopping Center Rack

Creekside Town Center Rack

Sacramento, CA

Howe ‘Bout Arden Center Rack

Anchorage

97,000

San Diego, CA

FlatIron Crossing

172,000

Park Meadows

245,000

Clackamas Town Center 

121,000

Downtown Portland

L loyd Center

Salem Center

174,000

150,000

71,000

Washington Square

189,000

Fashion Place

Crossroads Plaza

110,000

140,000

Bellevue Square

285,000

Alderwood Mall

127,000

Downtown Seattle

383,000

Northgate

Spokane

Tacoma Mall

Southcenter

Vancouver Mall

122,000

137,000

134,000

170,000

71,000

San Francisco, CA

San Jose, CA

San Leandro, CA
Woodland Hills, CA

L ittleton, CO

Broomfield, CO

Buford, GA

Honolulu, HI

Northbrook, IL

Oak Brook, IL

Schaumburg, IL

Gaithersburg, MD
*Silver Spring, MD
Towson, MD

Grand Rapids, MI

Troy, MI

Bloomington, MN

Las Vegas, NV

Westbury, NY

Beaverton, OR

Clackamas, OR

Portland, OR

Mission Valley Rack

555 Ninth Street 

Retail Center Rack

Westgate Mall Rack

San Leandro Rack
Topanga Rack

Meadows Marketplace Rack

Flatiron Marketplace Rack

Mall of Georgia Crossing Rack

Victoria Ward Center Rack

Northbrook Rack

The Shops at Oak Brook 

Place Rack

Woodfield Rack

Gaithersburg Rack

City Place Rack

Towson Rack

Centerpointe Mall Rack

Troy Marketplace Rack

Mall of America Rack

Silverado Ranch Plaza Rack

The Mall at the Source Rack

Tanasbourne Town Center Rack

Clackamas Promenade Rack 

Downtown Portland Rack

Women’s Ala Moana Shoes

Men’s Ala Moana Shoes

U.S. (4 boutiques)

International (24 boutiques)

Chandler Festival Rack

Last Chance

The Promenade Rack 

Brea Union Plaza Rack

Chino Marketplace Rack

Colma Rack

14,000

8,000

40,000

81,000

37,000

48,000

38,000

45,000

30,000

31,000

Philadelphia, PA

Franklin Mills Mall Rack

Hurst, TX

Plano, TX

The Shops at North East Mall Rack

Preston Shepard Place Rack

Salt Lake City, UT

Sugarhouse Rack

Dulles, VA

Woodbridge, VA

Auburn, WA

Bellevue, WA

Lynnwood, WA

Seattle, WA

Spokane, WA

Dulles Town Crossing Rack

Potomac Mills Rack

SuperMall of the Great 

Northwest Rack

Factoria Mall Rack

Golde Creek Plaza Rack

Downtown Seattle Rack

NorthTown Mall Rack

50,000

36,000

41,000

38,000

36,000

54,000

57,000

43,000

48,000

44,000
64,000

34,000

36,000

44,000

34,000

40,000

42,000

45,000

49,000

37,000

31,000

40,000

40,000

41,000

33,000

48,000

53,000

28,000

19,000

43,000

40,000

39,000

31,000

41,000

46,000

48,000

46,000

38,000

42,000

28,000

* Store closed January 21, 2002, however it has been treated as open for the full year.

NORDSTROM INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES   43

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Shareholder Information

Independent Auditors

Deloitte & Touche LLP

Counsel

Lane Powell Spears Lubersky LLP

Transfer Agent and Registrar

Mellon Investor Services LLC

P.O. Box 3315

South Hackensack, New Jersey 07606

Telephone (800) 318-7045

TDD for Hearing Impaired (800) 231-5469

Foreign Shareholders (201) 329-8660

TDD Foreign Shareholders (201) 329-8354

General Of fices

1617 Sixth Avenue

Seattle, Washington 98101-1742

Telephone (206) 628-2111

Annual Meeting

May 21, 2002 at 11:00 a.m.

Pacific Daylight Time

Nordstrom Downtown Seattle Store

John W. Nordstrom Room, fifth f loor

1617 Sixth Avenue

Seattle, Washington 98101-1742

Form 10-K

The Company's annual report on Form 10-K

for the year ended January 31, 2002 will be

provided to shareholders upon written request to:

Nordstrom, Inc. Investor Relations

P.O. Box 2737

Seattle, Washington 98111

Or by calling (206) 303-3200

Shareholder Information

Please visit www.nordstrom.com to obtain shareholder information.

In addition, the Company is always willing to discuss matters of

concern to shareholders, including its vendor standards compliance

mechanisms and progress in achieving compliance.

44 NORDSTROM INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

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20200324 NORDSTROM
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20200324 NORDSTROM
2001 Annual Report • VERSION 
8.375 x 10.875 • SCITEX • 175 lpi • Kodak 80# Cougar

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