Nordstrom, Inc. reported preliminary sales of $839.2 million for the five-week period ending January 4, 2003, an increase of 9.2 percent compared to sales of $768.6 million for the five-week period ending January 5, 2002. Same-store sales increased 3.4 percent.

For the five-week period, same-store sales in full-line stores increased in the Central States, Southwest and Northwest geographic regions and were flat in the East Coast region. By merchandise division, same-store sales increased in the Designer, Bridge and Contemporary segments of Women’s Apparel, as well as Cosmetics, Accessories, Women’s Active Wear, Shoes, and Children’s Apparel.

Same-store sales in full-line stores decreased 2.3 percent during the Men’s Half-Yearly event (December 26-January 6), compared to the same event in 2001 (December 26-January 6).

Preliminary quarter-to-date (November — December) sales (1) of $1.4 billion increased 7.1 percent compared to 2001 quarter-to-date sales of $1.3 billion. Quarter-to-date same-store sales (1) increased 1.6 percent.

Preliminary year-to-date sales of $5.6 billion increased 6.1 percent compared to 2001 year-to-date sales of $5.3 billion. Year-to-date same-store sales increased 1.4 percent.