Santa Monica, August 22, 2025
News Summary
Nordstrom’s Santa Monica store will close on August 26, 2024, after nearly 15 years of operation. This decision is part of a broader strategy to adapt to online shopping trends and safety concerns in the area. Nordstrom will assist affected employees and has plans for expansion in California with a new store opening in Encinitas by spring 2026, despite recent closures in other locations.
California—Nordstrom’s store at Santa Monica Place will officially close its doors on August 26, 2024, marking the end of nearly 15 years of operation since its opening in 2010. This closure is part of a larger strategy by Nordstrom to reshape its retail network in light of the continuing rise of online shopping and changing consumer behaviors.
Located in a popular outdoor mall near the beach, the Santa Monica location has shared space with other upscale retailers, including Coach and Hugo Boss. The decision to close this store has been influenced not only by shifting shopping habits but also by an increase in safety concerns within the downtown Santa Monica area. Recent events have included incidents of gun violence and attacks on police officers, which have raised alarms among shoppers and businesses alike.
In light of this closure, Nordstrom has assured that it will be supporting its affected employees by assisting them in transitioning to other roles within the company. This closure at Santa Monica Place aligns with another closure of a Nordstrom location at the Saint Louis Galleria in Missouri, which will shut down on August 24, 2024. Currently, a Dick’s House of Sports is slated to take over the retail space vacated by the St. Louis location.
Nordstrom’s restructuring plan is part of a broader trend within the retail industry, as several companies such as Macy’s and Walmart are also shutting down unprofitable locations. Many retailers are minimizing their physical storefront presence across the U.S. after changes in shopping habits intensified following the COVID-19 pandemic.
As part of its ongoing transformation, Nordstrom plans to expand its operations in California, announcing the opening of a new 24,000-square-foot Nordstrom Rack in Encinitas, which is expected to open in spring 2026. Currently, the company operates 26 Nordstrom and 68 Nordstrom Rack locations within the state, a number that has seen an increase due to new store openings over the past year.
Financially, Nordstrom reported a 4.7% increase in comparable sales for the fiscal year ending in 2024, indicating a positive growth trend despite challenges. The retailer also transitioned to a privately owned entity following a recent acquisition by the Nordstrom family and El Puerto de Liverpool valued at $6.25 billion in May 2025. This strategic shift is intended to allow the retailer to adapt more swiftly to market changes and consumer preferences.
The decision to adjust the store network is not an isolated case. The evolving landscape of retail continues to push companies to evaluate their physical presence, weighing the balance between in-store shopping and online convenience. With the ongoing decline of foot traffic in urban centers and the rise of digital sales, retailers like Nordstrom are strategically adapting to ensure long-term viability.
FAQ
When is Nordstrom closing its Santa Monica store?
Nordstrom’s Santa Monica store will close on August 26, 2024.
What is the reason behind the closure of the Santa Monica location?
The closure is part of Nordstrom’s strategy to restructure its store network in response to the growth of online shopping and safety concerns in downtown Santa Monica.
How is Nordstrom supporting employees affected by the closure?
Nordstrom plans to assist affected employees in transitioning to other roles within the company.
What other Nordstrom locations are closing?
In addition to the Santa Monica location, Nordstrom is also closing its store at the Saint Louis Galleria on August 24, 2024.
Is Nordstrom expanding in California?
Yes, Nordstrom plans to open a new 24,000-square-foot Nordstrom Rack in Encinitas in spring 2026.
Key Features of Nordstrom’s Upcoming Changes
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Closure Date | August 26, 2024 (Santa Monica) |
| Support for Employees | Assistance in transitioning to other roles |
| Expansion Plans | New store opening in Encinitas, spring 2026 |
| Comparable Sales Growth | 4.7% increase for fiscal year 2024 |
| Other Closures | Saint Louis Galleria on August 24, 2024 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- USA Today: Nordstrom Locations Closing
- Wikipedia: Nordstrom
- Los Angeles Times: Nordstrom Santa Monica
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Nordstrom Inc.
- KTLA: Nordstrom Closing Santa Monica Place
- Google Search: Nordstrom Santa Monica
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