Nordstrom preliminary sales were $431.7 million for the four-week periodending August 28, 2004, an increase of 8.2% compared to sales of $399.1 million for the four-week period ending August 30, 2003. Same-store sales increased 7.2%.

The strongest performing geographic regions for the month of August were
the Southwest and Southern States. The strongest merchandise categories were
accessories, women's shoes and women's designer apparel.

Preliminary year-to-date sales of $3.9 billion increased 12.0 percent
compared to sales of $3.5 billion in 2003. Year-to-date same-store sales
increased 9.2 percent.

Sales Recording

To hear Nordstrom's prerecorded August sales message, please dial
402-220-6036. This recording will be available for one week.

    SALES SUMMARY               August       August      YTD         YTD

    (unaudited; $ in millions)   2004         2003       2004        2003


    Total sales                 $431.7       $399.1    $3,920.7    $3,501.3

    Total sales

     percentage change             8.2%        11.0%       12.0%        6.5%

    Same-store sales

     percentage change             7.2%         2.8%        9.2%        1.7%


    Number of stores

     (as of August 31, 2004)

       Full-line                  93           90

       Rack and other             56           56

       International

        Faconnable boutiques      31           31

       Total                     180          177

    Gross square

     footage              19,289,000   18,847,000