SEATTLE, Wash. - Jan. 19, 2001 - Nordstrom, Inc. (NYSE: JWN) As part of its renewed focus on current store business and evaluation of store expansion, Seattle based Nordstrom Inc. today announced its decision to withdraw from a proposed project in Nashville, Tenn. that was scheduled to open in 2003. The company said it may revisit opportunities in the Nashville market sometime in the future.

In September, Nordstrom’s Board of Directors appointed Blake Nordstrom as president; he and his executive team have recently evaluated the retailer’s strategic initiatives and priorities, including store expansion. The retailer has decided to refocus company resources primarily on existing store business and revise its opening schedule. The retailer previously announced the cancellation of projects in Cincinnati and New Haven and says it will continue to evaluate its store expansion plans.

Earlier this year, Nordstrom announced its intention to open an approximately 165,000 square foot store in the city of Brentwood, Tenn., south of Nashville. The Nashville project was to have been developed by The Rouse Company, based in Columbia, Md.

Nordstrom, Inc. is one of the nation's leading fashion specialty retailers, with 120 US stores located in 24 states, including 77 full-line stores, 37 Nordstrom Racks, three Façonnable boutiques, two free-standing shoe stores, and one clearance store. Nordstrom also operates 20 Façonnable boutiques throughout Europe. Additionally, Nordstrom serves customers through its online presence at http://www.nordstrom.com and through its direct mail catalogs.