Nordstrom’s October Comps Rise (GPS) (JWN)

Zacks

Same-store sales at Nordstrom Inc. (JWN) grew by 5.4% for the four-week period ended October 29, 2011. Total retail sales in October 2011 climbed 13.3% to $749.0 million from $662.0 million for the four-week period ended October 30, 2011.

Third-quarter 2011 Sales

The company’s comparable sales in third-quarter 2011 increased 7.9% from the prior-year quarter. Total retail sales during the period surged 14.2% to $2.38 billion compared with a total retail sales of $2.09 billion in the prior-year quarter.

Year-to-date Sales

Moreover, Nordstrom's year-to-date comparable sales grew by 7.2% year over year. Total retail sales for the period increased 12.8% to $7.33 billion from $6.49 billion reported in the prior-year period.

As of October 29, 2011, Nordstrom had 117 Nordstrom full-line stores, 104 Nordstrom Racks, 2 Jeffrey boutiques, 1 treasure&bond store and 1 clearance store. Same-store sales at Nordstrom stores (including Nordstrom full-line stores and Direct) increased 5.7% in October, while Nordstrom Rack reported a rise of 7.4% for the four-week period ended October 29, 2011. Year to date, the company reported an increase of 8.1% in same-store sales at Nordstrom stores and a rise of 4.3% at Nordstrom Rack.

Peer Performance

One of Nordstrom’s competitors, Gap Inc.’s (GPS) registered a decline of 6.0% in same-store sales in October 2011, while its net sales came in at $1.14 billion compared with $1.19 billion in the year-ago period.

Conclusion

Nordstrom remains focused on expanding its store network to drive top-line growth. However, a sluggish discretionary spending environment, intense competition and exposure to seasonal fluctuations will keep us on the sidelines.

Based in Seattle, Washington, Nordstrom Inc. is a leading fashion specialty retailer in the U.S., offering high quality apparel, shoes, cosmetics and accessories for men, women and kids. The company offers both branded and private label merchandise, as well as a private label card, two Nordstrom VISA credit cards and debit cards for Nordstrom purchases.

Nordstrom's shares maintain a Zacks #2 Rank, which translates into a short-term 'Buy' rating. Our long-term recommendation on the stock remains 'Neutral'.

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