Santa Monica, August 22, 2025
News Summary
Nordstrom has announced the closure of its Santa Monica Place store on August 26, 2024, after nearly 15 years of operation. This decision aligns with the company’s strategy to restructure its retail network amid increasing online shopping and local safety concerns. Employees will be supported in transitioning to other roles, while Nordstrom plans to open a new Nordstrom Rack in Encinitas by spring 2026. The retailer aims to enhance service through nearby stores and digital channels despite recent store downsizing.
California—Nordstrom’s Santa Monica Place store will close its doors for the final time on August 26, 2024. This decision marks the end of nearly 15 years of operation at the location, which first opened in 2010. Situated in an outdoor mall near the beach and surrounded by high-end retailers such as Coach and Hugo Boss, the store has been a staple in the shopping district.
The closure is part of Nordstrom’s larger strategy to restructure its store network, a move driven in part by the increasing popularity of online shopping. A company spokesperson noted that this decision aims to better serve customers through nearby stores and the brand’s digital channels. Alongside the Santa Monica location, Nordstrom will also shut down its Saint Louis Galleria store in St. Louis, Missouri, on August 24, 2024, as part of the same restructuring efforts.
This decision comes during a time of heightened safety concerns in downtown Santa Monica. Rising crime rates and issues related to homelessness have affected the area, with recent incidents involving gun violence and attacks on police officers recorded near Santa Monica Place mall.
Nordstrom has announced that they will support employees affected by the closure, working to transition them to roles within other parts of the company. This initiative aims to cushion the impact of the store closure and maintain employee morale during the transition.
In addition to these closures, Nordstrom plans to expand its footprint in California. A new 24,000-square-foot Nordstrom Rack is set to open in Encinitas in the spring of 2026, demonstrating the company’s intent to grow despite the recent downsizing of certain locations. As of July 29, 2024, Nordstrom operates 26 Nordstrom and 68 Nordstrom Rack locations throughout California, and has opened several new stores in the past year.
Financially, Nordstrom reported a 4.7% increase in comparable sales for the fiscal year 2024 compared to the previous year. The retailer underwent a significant change earlier in May 2025 when it became privately owned after a $6.25 billion acquisition by the Nordstrom family and El Puerto de Liverpool, a move that has reshaped its operational and strategic focus.
The retail industry at large is experiencing a similar trend, with companies like Macy’s and Walmart also closing locations amid changing shopping habits and economic pressures. Numerous retailers have reduced their storefront presence across the U.S., trends that started during the COVID-19 pandemic and continue to evolve.
Key Features of Retail Changes at Nordstrom
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Closure Date (Santa Monica) | August 26, 2024 |
| Years in Operation | 15 years (2010-2024) |
| Nearby Retailer Influence | High-end retailers such as Coach and Hugo Boss |
| Sensitivity to Local Issues | Addressing safety concerns (e.g., crime, homelessness) |
| Employee Support Plan | Transition to other roles within the company |
| New Store Openings | Nordstrom Rack in Encinitas (Spring 2026) |
| Comparative Sales Growth | 4.7% for fiscal year 2024 |
FAQ Section
When will the Santa Monica Nordstrom store close?
The Santa Monica Nordstrom store will close on August 26, 2024.
What is the reason for the store closure?
The closure is part of Nordstrom’s strategy to restructure its store network in response to the growth of online shopping, as well as safety concerns in downtown Santa Monica.
How is Nordstrom supporting employees affected by the closure?
Nordstrom plans to support affected employees by helping them transition to other roles within the company.
What other closures is Nordstrom planning?
In addition to Santa Monica, Nordstrom is also closing its Saint Louis Galleria location on August 24, 2024.
Is Nordstrom expanding in California?
Yes, Nordstrom is planning to open a new 24,000-square-foot Nordstrom Rack in Encinitas, expected to launch in spring 2026.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- USA Today: Nordstrom Locations Closing 2025
- Wikipedia: Nordstrom
- Desert Sun: Nordstrom Closing California Stores
- Google Search: Nordstrom closure
- LA Times: Nordstrom Santa Monica Closure
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Nordstrom
- KTLA: Nordstrom Closing Santa Monica Place
- Google News: Nordstrom Santa Monica Closure
- Fox2Now: Nordstrom Closes St. Louis Galleria
- Google Scholar: Nordstrom retail changes
Author: Anaheim Staff Writer
Anaheim Staff Writer The Anaheim Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREAnaheim.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Anaheim, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as major conventions at the Anaheim Convention Center, including NAMM and VidCon, exciting games at Angel Stadium and Honda Center, and developments at Disneyland Resort Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce and Visit Anaheim, plus leading businesses in hospitality, entertainment, and innovation that power the local economy As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECostaMesa.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
