Santa Monica, August 22, 2025
News Summary
Nordstrom has announced the closure of its Santa Monica Place store on August 26, 2024, as part of a wider restructuring strategy. This decision reflects evolving consumer habits and increased online shopping. The Santa Monica store, operational since 2010, will close alongside another location in St. Louis, indicating a shift in the retailer’s strategy. To adapt, Nordstrom plans to open a new Nordstrom Rack in Encinitas, CA, in 2026, while providing support for employees impacted by these changes.
California – Nordstrom’s closure of its Santa Monica Place store, set for August 26, 2024, marks a significant shift in the retailer’s operations. The store, in business for nearly 15 years since its opening in 2010, is part of a broader restructuring effort by Nordstrom, reflecting changing consumer habits and the growing trend toward online shopping.
Located in an outdoor shopping mall near the beach, the Santa Monica store has been a staple alongside high-end brands like Coach and Hugo Boss. This decision comes amid increased safety concerns in downtown Santa Monica, where incidents of gun violence and attacks on police officers have reportedly raised alarms among local businesses and shoppers alike.
A spokesperson for Nordstrom conveyed that the company aims to better serve its customers by focusing on nearby locations and enhancing digital shopping channels. The closure aligns with the company’s ongoing strategy to adapt to the shifting retail landscape, including a significant increase in online sales.
Alongside Santa Monica, Nordstrom is also closing its location at the Saint Louis Galleria in St. Louis, Missouri, just two days earlier on August 24, 2024. The space will be taken over by Dick’s House of Sports as part of a reimagining of the mall’s offerings to appeal to local shoppers.
In support of employees affected by these closures, Nordstrom has committed to assisting them in transitioning to other roles within the company. The retailer aims to minimize the impact of these changes on its workforce as it continues to adapt its physical store presence.
Despite this downsizing, Nordstrom is expanding its footprint in California with plans to open a new 24,000-square-foot Nordstrom Rack store in Encinitas, projected for spring 2026. Currently, California hosts 26 Nordstrom locations alongside 68 Nordstrom Rack stores, with several new shop openings in the past year showcasing the company’s commitment to the market.
Financially, Nordstrom has reported a 4.7% increase in comparable sales for the fiscal year 2024, indicating a positive trend amidst the restructuring phase. The company recently transitioned to private ownership following a $6.25 billion acquisition by the Nordstrom family and El Puerto de Liverpool in May 2025.
This retail environment has seen numerous companies pursuing similar closures, including Macy’s and Walmart, in response to evolving shopping preferences and economic pressures. The trend echoes patterns seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, where many businesses reevaluated their physical retail strategies.
As retailers navigate this complex landscape, the focus remains on blending physical and digital retail experiences to cater to customers’ needs. With an eye towards future growth while addressing current challenges, Nordstrom’s latest moves exemplify the ongoing evolution within the retail sector.
FAQ
What is the closure date for Nordstrom’s Santa Monica store?
The Santa Monica location will close on August 26, 2024.
Why is Nordstrom closing the Santa Monica store?
The closure is part of a broader restructuring strategy in response to the growth of online shopping and local safety concerns.
How long has the Santa Monica store been in operation?
It has been operating for nearly 15 years, having opened in 2010.
What plans does Nordstrom have after closing this store?
Nordstrom plans to open a new 24,000-square-foot Nordstrom Rack in Encinitas, California, slated for spring 2026, while also assisting affected employees in transitioning to other roles within the company.
Is Nordstrom closing any other stores?
Yes, the company is also closing its Saint Louis Galleria location in St. Louis, Missouri, on August 24, 2024.
Key Features of Nordstrom’s Restructuring
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Closure of Santa Monica Location | August 26, 2024 |
| Operational Duration | 15 years (opened in 2010) |
| Reason for Closure | Retail restructuring due to online shopping growth and safety concerns |
| Support for Employees | Transition assistance to other roles within the company |
| Future Store Openings | Nordstrom Rack in Encinitas, CA, spring 2026 |
| Other Closures | Saint Louis Galleria store on August 24, 2024 |
| Recent Sales Growth | 4.7% increase in comparable sales for fiscal year 2024 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- USA Today: Nordstrom Locations Closing
- Los Angeles Times: Nordstrom Santa Monica Closure
- Desert Sun: Nordstrom Closure in California
- NBC Los Angeles: Nordstrom Santa Monica Place Closing
- Wikipedia: Nordstrom
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