Nordstrom, Inc.

American luxury department store chain founded in 1901, known for high-end fashion apparel, shoes, and accessories, headquartered in Seattle, Washington.

Nordstrom was founded in 1901 by John W. Nordstrom, a Swedish immigrant who arrived in the United States with $5, and Carl F. Wallin, a shoemaker. The partners opened a shoe store in Seattle called Wallin & Nordstrom. John Nordstrom had earned his initial capital working in gold mines during the Klondike Gold Rush. The store focused on quality shoes and customer service.

The company grew through the early 20th century, expanding to multiple locations in the Pacific Northwest. John Nordstrom's sons joined the business and led expansion across the western United States. The company acquired other shoe stores and expanded into apparel and accessories. Nordstrom became known for its customer service and quality merchandise.

In the 1960s and 1970s, Nordstrom expanded beyond the Pacific Northwest, opening stores in California and other western states. The company acquired other retailers including Liberty House in Hawaii and Best's Apparel in the Pacific Northwest. Nordstrom went public in 1970, raising capital for further expansion.

The 1980s and 1990s brought nationwide expansion as Nordstrom opened stores across the United States. The company introduced Nordstrom Rack off-price stores in 1973 to sell clearance merchandise. Nordstrom expanded into Canada in 2014. The company has continued to invest in digital capabilities and omnichannel retailing to adapt to changing consumer preferences.