•the potential impacts of the Board of Director’s consideration of potential avenues to enhance shareholder value, including the disclosure of a possible “going private” transaction being explored by our Chief Executive Officer and our President and Chief Brand Officer, on our business, financial condition and results of operations, as well as our stock price,
•our ability to acquire, develop and retain qualified and diverse talent by providing appropriate training, compelling work environments and competitive compensation and benefits, especially in areas with increased market compensation, all in the context of any labor shortage and competition for talent,
•our ability to realize expected benefits, anticipate and respond to potential risks and appropriately manage costs associated with our credit card revenue sharing program,
•potential goodwill impairment charges, future impairment charges and fluctuations in the fair values of reporting units or of assets in the event projected financial results are not achieved within expected time frames or if our strategic direction changes,
Data, Cybersecurity and Information Technology
•successful execution of our information technology strategy, including engagement with third-party service providers,
•the impact of any system or network failures, cybersecurity and/or security breaches, including any security breach of our systems or those of a third-party provider that results in the theft, transfer or unauthorized disclosure of customer, employee or Company information, or that results in the interruption of business processes or causes financial loss, and our compliance with information security and privacy laws and regulations, as well as third-party contractual obligations in the event of such an incident,
Reputation and Relationships
•our ability to maintain our reputation and relationships with our customers, employees, vendors and third-party partners and landlords,
•our ability to act responsibly and with transparency with respect to our environmental, social and governance practices and initiatives, meet any communicated targets, goals or milestones and adapt to evolving reporting requirements,
•our ability to market our brand and distribute our products through a variety of third-party publisher or platform channels, as well as access mobile operating system and website identifiers for personalized delivery of targeted advertising,
•the impact of a concentration of stock ownership on our shareholders’ ability to influence corporate matters,
Investment and Capital
•efficient and proper allocation of our capital resources,
•our ability to properly balance our investments in technology, Supply Chain Network facilities and existing and new store locations, including the expansion of our market strategy,
•our ability to maintain or expand our presence, including timely completion of construction associated with Supply Chain Network facilities and new, relocated and remodeled stores, as well as any potential store closures, all of which may be impacted by third parties, consumer demand and other natural or man-made disruptions, and government responses to any such disruptions,
•market fluctuations, increases in operating costs, exit costs and overall liabilities and losses associated with owning and leasing real estate,
•compliance with debt and operating covenants, availability and cost of credit, changes in our credit ratings and changes in interest rates,
•the actual timing, price, manner and amounts of future share repurchases, dividend payments or share issuances, if any, subject to the discretion of our Board of Directors, contractual commitments, market and economic conditions and applicable SEC rules,
Economic and External
•the length and severity of epidemics or pandemics, or other catastrophic events, and the related impact on customer behavior, store and online operations and supply chain functions, as well as our future consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows,
•the impact of the seasonal nature of our business and cyclical customer spending,
•the impact of economic and market conditions, including inflation and measures to control inflation, and resulting changes to customer purchasing behavior, unemployment and bankruptcy rates, and the resulting impact on consumer spending and credit patterns,
•the impact of economic, environmental or political conditions,
•the impact of changing consumer traffic patterns at shopping centers and malls,
•financial insecurity or potential insolvency experienced by our vendors, suppliers, developers, landlords, competitors or customers,
•weather conditions, natural disasters, climate change, national security concerns, global conflicts, civil unrest, other market and supply chain disruptions, the effects of tariffs, or the prospects of such events, and the resulting impact any of these events may have on business operations, consumer spending patterns or information technology systems and communications,
Legal and Regulatory
•our, and the third parties’ we do business with, compliance with applicable domestic and international laws, regulations and ethical standards, minimum wage, employment and tax, information security and privacy, consumer credit and environmental regulations and the outcome of any claims, litigation and regulatory investigations and resolution of such matters,
•the impact of changes in policy or laws relating to consumer credit, the current regulatory environment, the financial system and tax reforms,
•the impact of accounting rule and regulation changes, or our interpretation of the changes, or changes in underlying assumptions, estimates or judgments.
These and other factors, including those factors we discuss in Part II, Item 1A. Risk Factors, could affect our financial results and cause our actual results to differ materially from any forward-looking information we may provide. Given these risks, uncertainties and other factors, undue reliance should not be placed on these forward-looking statements. Also, these forward-looking statements represent our estimates and assumptions only as of the date of this filing, and these estimates and assumptions may prove to be incorrect. This Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q should be read completely and with the understanding that our actual future results may be materially different from what we expect. We hereby qualify our forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation to update these forward-looking statements publicly, or to update the reasons actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future.
All references to “we,” “us,” “our,” or the “Company” mean Nordstrom, Inc. and its subsidiaries. On March 2, 2023, Nordstrom Canada commenced a wind-down of its business operations (see Note 1: Basis of Presentation in Part I) and as of this date, Nordstrom Canada was deconsolidated from Nordstrom, Inc.’s financial statements. Nordstrom Canada results prior to March 2, 2023 are included in the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
In addition, statements that “we believe” and similar statements reflect our beliefs and opinions on the relevant subject. These statements are based upon information available to us as of the filing date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, and while we believe such information forms a reasonable basis for such statements, such information may be limited or incomplete, and our statements should not be read to indicate that we have conducted an exhaustive inquiry into, or review of, all potentially available relevant information. These statements are inherently uncertain and investors are cautioned not to unduly rely upon these statements.
The content of any websites and materials named, hyperlinked or otherwise referenced in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are not incorporated by reference into this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q or in any other report or document we file with the SEC, and any references to such websites and materials are intended to be inactive textual references only. The information on these websites is not part of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
DEFINITIONS OF COMMONLY USED TERMS
Term
Definition
2023 Annual Report
Annual Report on Form 10-K filed on March 19, 2024
Adjusted EPS
Adjusted earnings (loss) per diluted share (a non-GAAP financial measure)
Adjusted ROIC
Adjusted return on invested capital (a non-GAAP financial measure)
ASU
Accounting Standards Update
CCAA
Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act
Digital sales
Sales conducted through a digital platform such as our websites or mobile apps. Digital sales may be self-guided by the customer, as in a traditional online order, or facilitated by a salesperson using a virtual styling or selling tool. Digital sales may be delivered to the customer or picked up in our Nordstrom stores, Nordstrom Rack stores or Nordstrom Local service hubs. Digital sales also includes a reserve for estimated returns.
EBIT
Earnings (loss) before interest and income taxes
EBIT margin
Earnings (loss) before interest and income taxes as a percent of net sales
EBITDA
Earnings (loss) before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization
EBITDAR
Earnings (loss) before interest, income taxes, depreciation, amortization and rent, as defined by our Revolver covenant
EPS
Earnings (loss) per share
ESPP
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Exchange Act
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended
FASB
Financial Accounting Standards Board
Third quarter of 2024
13 fiscal weeks ending November 2, 2024
Third quarter of 2023
13 fiscal weeks ending October 28, 2023
Fiscal year 2024
52 fiscal weeks ending February 1, 2025
Fiscal year 2023
53 fiscal weeks ending February 3, 2024
GAAP
U.S. generally accepted accounting principles
GMV
Gross merchandise value
Gross profit
Net sales less cost of sales and related buying and occupancy costs
Leverage Ratio
The sum of our funded debt and operating lease liabilities divided by the preceding twelve months of Adjusted EBITDAR as defined by our Revolver covenant
Term
Definition
MD&A
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
NAV
Net asset value
Nordstrom
Nordstrom.com, Nordstrom U.S. stores and Nordstrom Local. Nordstrom also included Canada operations prior to March 2, 2023, inclusive of Nordstrom.ca, Nordstrom Canadian stores and Nordstrom Rack Canadian stores, and ASOS | Nordstrom prior to December 2023.
Nordstrom Canada
Nordstrom Canada Retail, Inc., Nordstrom Canada Holdings, LLC and Nordstrom Canada Holdings II, LLC
Nordstrom Local
Nordstrom Local service hubs, which offer order pickups, returns, alterations and other services
Nordstrom Rack
NordstromRack.com, Nordstrom Rack U.S. stores and Last Chance clearance stores
The Nordy Club
Our customer loyalty program
NYSE
New York Stock Exchange
Operating Lease Cost
Fixed rent expense, including fixed common area maintenance expense, net of developer reimbursement amortization
Property incentives
Developer and vendor reimbursements
PSU
Performance share unit
Revolver
Senior revolving credit facility
Rights Plan
Our limited-duration Shareholder Rights Agreement adopted by the Board of Directors
ROU asset
Operating lease right-of-use asset
RSU
Restricted stock unit
SEC
Securities and Exchange Commission
SG&A
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Supply Chain Network
Fulfillment centers that primarily process and ship orders to our customers, distribution centers that primarily process and ship merchandise to our stores and other facilities and omni-channel centers that both fulfill customer orders and ship merchandise to our stores
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Dollar and share amounts in millions except per share, per option and per unit amounts)
(Unaudited)
NOTE 1: BASIS OF PRESENTATION
The interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared on a basis consistent in all material respects with the accounting policies described and applied in our 2023 Annual Report, except as described below, and reflect all adjustments of a normal recurring nature that are, in management’s opinion, necessary for the fair presentation of the results of operations, financial position and cash flows for the periods presented.
The Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements as of and for the periods ended November 2, 2024 and October 28, 2023 are unaudited. The Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of February 3, 2024 has been derived from the audited Consolidated Financial Statements included in our 2023 Annual Report. The interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements should be read together with the Consolidated Financial Statements and related footnote disclosures contained in our 2023 Annual Report.
Principles of Consolidation
The Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements include the balances of Nordstrom, Inc. and its subsidiaries. All intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated in consolidation.
On March 2, 2023, Nordstrom Canada commenced a wind-down of its business operations and as of this date, Nordstrom Canada was deconsolidated from Nordstrom, Inc.’s financial statements. Nordstrom Canada results prior to March 2, 2023 are included in the Company’s Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for the period ended October 28, 2023.
Fiscal Year
We operate on a 52/53-week fiscal year ending on the Saturday closest to January 31st. References to 2024 and any other year included within this document are based on a 52-week fiscal year, except for 2023 which is a 53-week fiscal year.
Seasonality
Our business, like that of other retailers, is subject to seasonal fluctuations and cyclical trends in consumer spending. Our sales are typically higher in our second quarter, which usually includes most of our Anniversary Sale, and in the fourth quarter due to the holidays. One week of our Anniversary Sale shifted to the second quarter in 2024 from the third quarter in 2023.
Results for any one quarter are not indicative of the results that may be achieved for a full fiscal year. We plan our merchandise purchases and receipts to coincide with expected sales trends. For instance, our merchandise purchases and receipts increase prior to the Anniversary Sale and in the fall as we prepare for the holiday shopping season (typically from November through December). Consistent with our seasonal fluctuations, our working capital requirements have historically increased during the months leading up to the Anniversary Sale and the holidays as we purchase inventory in anticipation of increased sales.
Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires that we make estimates, judgments and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities during the reporting period. Uncertainties regarding such estimates and assumptions are inherent in the preparation of financial statements. Actual results may differ from these estimates and assumptions. Our most significant accounting judgments and estimates include revenue recognition, inventory valuation, long-lived asset recoverability, income taxes and contingent liabilities.
Change in Accounting Principle
Effective February 4, 2024, we changed our method of accounting for merchandise inventories from the retail inventory method to the weighted average cost method. Under this new method, we value our inventory at the lower of cost or net realizable value using the weighted average cost. We record reserves for excess and obsolete inventory based on specific identification of units with a current retail value below cost, plus an estimate of future markdowns below cost, which considers the age of inventory and historical trends.
We believe using the weighted average cost method is preferable to the retail inventory method and consistent with our overall strategy because it provides more precise data and enhances visibility into item-level profitability, which drives faster decisions and better outcomes. We determined that retrospective application for periods prior to fiscal year 2024 was impracticable due to lack of available information. We recorded the cumulative effect of this change in accounting principle as of February 4, 2024, resulting in a decrease to accumulated deficit of $39, net of tax of $14.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Dollar and share amounts in millions except per share, per option and per unit amounts)
(Unaudited)
Canada Wind-down
On March 2, 2023, as part of our initiatives to drive long-term profitable growth and enhance shareholder value, and after careful consideration of all reasonably available options, we announced the decision to discontinue support for Nordstrom Canada’s operations. While Nordstrom continues to own 100% of the shares of Nordstrom Canada, as of March 2, 2023, we no longer have a controlling interest under GAAP and have deconsolidated Nordstrom Canada. We hold a variable interest in the Nordstrom Canada entities, which are considered variable interest entities, but are not consolidated, as we are no longer the primary beneficiary. In December 2023, Nordstrom Canada delivered a proposed plan of arrangement to its creditors, which was subsequently approved by creditors on March 1, 2024, sanctioned by the Ontario Superior Court of Justice on March 20, 2024 and implemented by Nordstrom Canada on April 25, 2024. Initial distributions pursuant to the plan of arrangement occurred in May 2024. As of November 2, 2024, we recorded $11 within accounts receivable, net on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet to reflect the remaining amount we estimate we will receive as part of the plan of arrangement. For more information on the wind-down of our Canada operations, see our 2023 Annual Report.
Non-cash charges associated with the wind-down of operations in Canada in 2023 are included in Canada wind-down costs on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows. The decrease in cash due to the deconsolidation of Nordstrom Canada is included in investing activities on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows and all other impacts are included in operating cash flows.
Prior to deconsolidation, Nordstrom made loans to the Canadian subsidiaries and incurred liabilities related to certain intercompany charges. These were considered intercompany transactions and were eliminated in consolidation of Nordstrom. Subsequent to deconsolidation, these liabilities and receivables were no longer eliminated through consolidation, are considered related-party transactions and are recorded in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at estimated fair value. Nordstrom had no outstanding liability to Nordstrom Canada as of November 2, 2024.
Leases
We incurred operating lease liabilities arising from lease agreements of $277 for the nine months ended November 2, 2024 and $200 for the nine months ended October 28, 2023.
Land, Property and Equipment
Our net non-cash investing activities related to capital expenditure accruals, primarily for our Nordstrom and Rack stores, which resulted in an increase to accounts payable of $44 as of November 2, 2024.
Supply Chain Asset Impairments
During the second quarter of 2024, we decommissioned certain supply chain assets and incurred a non-cash impairment charge of $51 as a result of a change in our supply chain optimization strategy. This included $27 on long-lived tangible assets and $24 on ROU assets to adjust the carrying values to their estimated fair values. These charges are included in our Corporate/Other SG&A expense on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Earnings and asset impairment on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows.
Going-Private Transaction
In April 2024, we announced that our Board of Directors had established a special committee of independent and disinterested directors (the “Special Committee”) in response to interest expressed by Erik B. Nordstrom, our Chief Executive Officer, and Peter E. Nordstrom, our President and Chief Brand Officer, in pursuing a potential transaction in which Nordstrom would become a private company in conjunction with the Board’s exploration of possible avenues to enhance shareholder value. On September 4, 2024, the Special Committee confirmed receipt of a proposal from Erik and Pete Nordstrom, other members of the Nordstrom family, and El Puerto de Liverpool, S.A.B. de C.V. (collectively, the “Bid Group”) to acquire all of the outstanding shares of the Company, other than shares held by members of the Bid Group, for $23 per share in cash.
The Special Committee and the other independent directors are carefully reviewing the proposal in consultation with independent financial and legal advisors to determine the course of action that is in the best interests of Nordstrom and all shareholders. There can be no assurance that the Company will pursue this transaction or other strategic outcome, or that a proposed transaction will be approved or consummated. We do not intend to disclose further developments regarding this matter unless and until further disclosure is determined to be appropriate or necessary.
In September 2024, we entered into a Second Amendment to the Shareholder Rights Agreement, which provides that the Bid Group shall be an Exempt Person under the Shareholder Rights Agreement until the earlier of (i) April 17, 2025 and (ii) the date that the Bid Group increases its aggregate beneficial ownership of shares of the Company’s common stock to an amount greater than its beneficial ownership on the date of the Amendment plus 0.1% of the then-outstanding shares of common stock (subject to specified exclusions). For more information on the Shareholders Rights Agreement, see our 2023 Annual Report.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Dollar and share amounts in millions except per share, per option and per unit amounts)
(Unaudited)
Reclassification
We reclassified amounts in our fiscal 2023 Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows to conform with current period presentation. As a result, we disaggregated:
•Accounts receivable, net and prepaid expenses and other assets
•Other current liabilities and other liabilities
These reclassifications had no impact on cash flows from operations, cash flows from investing or cash flows from financing.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In November 2023, the FASB issued ASU No. 2023-07, Segment Reporting (Topic 280): Improvements to Reportable Segment Disclosures, which requires additional quarterly and annual reportable segment disclosures, primarily around significant segment expenses retrospectively for all prior periods presented. Annual disclosure requirements will be effective for us for the fourth quarter of 2024, and quarterly disclosure requirements will be effective for us in the first quarter of 2025, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of this ASU, and expect to include updated segment expense disclosures in our fiscal year 2024 Form 10-K.
In December 2023, the FASB issued ASU 2023-09, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Improvements to Income Tax Disclosures, which requires disclosure of additional income tax information, primarily related to the rate reconciliation and income taxes paid. Annual disclosure requirements will be effective for us for the fourth quarter of 2025, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of this ASU on our disclosures.
In November 2024, the FASB issued ASU 2024-03, Income Statement—Reporting Comprehensive Income—Expense Disaggregation Disclosures (Subtopic 220-40): Disaggregation of Income Statement Expenses, which requires additional disclosure about specific expense categories included in the income statement. Annual disclosure requirements will be effective for us for the fourth quarter of 2027, and quarterly disclosure requirements will be effective for us in the first quarter of 2028, with early adoption permitted. We are currently evaluating the impact of this ASU on our disclosures.
NOTE 2: REVENUE
Contract Liabilities
Contract liabilities represent our obligation to transfer goods or services to customers and include deferred revenue for The Nordy Club (including unused points and unredeemed Nordstrom Notes), gift cards and our TD program agreement. Our contract liabilities are classified on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as follows:
Other current liabilities
Other liabilities
Balance as of January 28, 2023
$536
$136
Balance as of April 29, 2023
489
123
Balance as of July 29, 2023
464
111
Balance as of October 28, 2023
472
98
Balance as of February 3, 2024
508
85
Balance as of May 4, 2024
479
72
Balance as of August 3, 2024
442
60
Balance as of November 2, 2024
444
314
Revenues recognized from our beginning contract liability balance were $112 and $273 for the quarter and nine months ended November 2, 2024 and $114 and $268 for the quarter and nine months ended October 28, 2023.
In the third quarter of 2024, we amended our program agreement with TD. In connection with the amendment, we recorded deferred revenue within other current liabilities and other liabilities on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet, which will be combined with the deferred revenue from the prior amendment and recognized in full over the term of the agreement through 2032. We also recorded a receivable for $280 in connection with the contract signing, as the amount represents an unconditional right of payment. This amount is classified within accounts receivable, net on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. We received the cash in November 2024, subsequent to quarter-end.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Dollar and share amounts in millions except per share, per option and per unit amounts)
(Unaudited)
Disaggregation of Revenue
The following table summarizes our disaggregated net sales:
Quarter Ended
Nine Months Ended
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
Nordstrom
$2,077
$2,051
$6,632
$6,570
Nordstrom Rack
1,270
1,149
3,721
3,356
Total net sales
$3,347
$3,200
$10,353
$9,926
Digital sales as a % of total net sales
34
%
34
%
35
%
35%
The following table summarizes the percent of net sales by merchandise category:
Quarter Ended
Nine Months Ended
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
Women’s Apparel
30
%
28
%
30
%
28
%
Shoes
27
%
27
%
26
%
26
%
Men’s Apparel
15
%
15
%
14
%
15
%
Beauty
11
%
12
%
12
%
12
%
Accessories
10
%
11
%
11
%
12
%
Kids’ Apparel
4
%
4
%
4
%
4
%
Other
3
%
3
%
3
%
3
%
Total net sales
100
%
100
%
100
%
100
%
NOTE 3: DEBT AND CREDIT FACILITIES
Debt
During the first quarter of 2024, we retired our 2.30% senior notes due in April 2024 using cash on hand.
Credit Facilities
As of November 2, 2024 and October 28, 2023 we had no outstanding borrowings under the Revolver that expires in May 2027. As of November 2, 2024, we have an outstanding standby letter of credit of $28 resulting in available short-term borrowing capacity of $772. This letter of credit is not reflected in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. Provided that we obtain written consent from the lenders, we have the option to increase the Revolver by up to $200, to a total of $1,000, and two options to extend the Revolver for additional one-year terms.
Any outstanding borrowings under the Revolver are secured by substantially all our personal and intellectual property assets and are guaranteed by certain of our subsidiaries. Under the Revolver, our obligation to secure any outstanding borrowings will be eliminated if no default exists and we either have an unsecured investment-grade debt rating from two of three specified ratings agencies, or we have one investment-grade rating and achieve two consecutive fiscal quarters with a Leverage Ratio of less than 2.5 times.
Under the Revolver, we have two financial covenant tests that need to be met on a quarterly basis: a Leverage Ratio that is less than or equal to 4 times and a fixed charge coverage ratio that is greater than or equal to 1.25 times. As of November 2, 2024, we were in compliance with all covenants.
The Revolver contains customary representations, warranties, covenants and terms, including paying a variable rate of interest and a facility fee based on our debt rating, and is available for working capital, capital expenditures and general corporate purposes. The Revolver allows us to issue dividends and repurchase shares provided we are not in default and no default would arise as a result of such payments. If the pro-forma Leverage Ratio after such payments is less than 3 times, then such payments are unlimited. If the pro-forma Leverage Ratio is greater than or equal to 3 times but less than 3.5 times, then we are limited to $100 per fiscal quarter and if the pro-forma Leverage Ratio is greater than or equal to 3.5 times, then the limit is $60 per fiscal quarter.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Dollar and share amounts in millions except per share, per option and per unit amounts)
(Unaudited)
Our $800 commercial paper program allows us to use the proceeds to fund operating cash requirements. Under the terms of the commercial paper agreement, we pay a rate of interest based on, among other factors, the maturity of the issuance and market conditions. The issuance of commercial paper has the effect of reducing available liquidity under the Revolver by an amount equal to the principal amount of commercial paper outstanding. Conversely, borrowings under our Revolver have the effect of reducing the available capacity of our commercial paper program by an amount equal to the amount outstanding. As of November 2, 2024 and October 28, 2023, we had no issuances outstanding under our commercial paper program.
NOTE 4: FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS
We disclose our financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets by level within the fair value hierarchy as defined by applicable accounting standards:
Level 1: Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities
Level 2: Other observable market-based inputs or unobservable inputs that are corroborated by market data
Level 3: Unobservable inputs that cannot be corroborated by market data that reflect the reporting entity’s own assumptions
Financial instruments measured at carrying value on a recurring basis include cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable and our Revolver, which approximate fair value due to their short-term nature.
Long-term debt is recorded at carrying value. If long-term debt was measured at fair value, we would use quoted market prices of the same or similar issues, which is considered a Level 2 fair value measurement. The following table summarizes the carrying value and fair value estimate of our long-term debt, including current maturities:
November 2, 2024
February 3, 2024
October 28, 2023
Carrying value of long-term debt
$2,617
$2,862
$2,861
Fair value of long-term debt
2,323
2,441
2,168
We measure certain items at fair value on a nonrecurring basis, primarily goodwill and long-lived tangible and ROU assets, in connection with periodic evaluations for potential impairment. For more information regarding long-lived tangible asset impairment charges for the nine months ended November 2, 2024, see Note 1: Basis of Presentation. We estimate the fair value of these assets using primarily unobservable inputs and, as such, these are considered Level 3 fair value measurements. In the first quarter of 2023, we measured our investment in Nordstrom Canada, our related-party receivables and related lease guarantees at fair value. See our 2023 Annual Report for more detailed information on charges associated with the wind-down of our Canada operations.
Investments Measured at NAV
From time to time, we invest in financial interests of private companies and venture capital funds that align with our business and omni-channel strategies, which are classified in other assets in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets and proceeds from the sale of assets and other, net within investing activities on the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. These investments are measured at fair value using the NAV per share, or its equivalent, as a practical expedient. This class of investments consists of partnership interests that mainly invest in venture capital strategies with a focus on privately held consumer and technology companies. The NAV is based on the fair value of the underlying net assets owned by the fund and the relative interest of each participating investor in the fair value of the underlying assets. Our interest in these partnerships is generally not redeemable and is subject to significant restrictions regarding transfers. Distributions from each fund will be received as the underlying assets of the funds are liquidated. Liquidation is triggered by clauses within the partnership agreements or at the funds’ stated end date. The contractual terms of the partnership interests range from six to ten years.
As of November 2, 2024, February 3, 2024 and October 28, 2023, we held $40, $41 and $41 of investments measured at NAV.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Dollar and share amounts in millions except per share, per option and per unit amounts)
(Unaudited)
NOTE 5: STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION
The following table summarizes our stock-based compensation expense:
Quarter Ended
Nine Months Ended
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
RSUs
$13
$11
$47
$31
Stock options
1
1
2
5
Other1
2
1
8
5
Total stock-based compensation expense, before income tax benefit
16
13
57
41
Income tax benefit
(4)
(3)
(15)
(10)
Total stock-based compensation expense, net of income tax benefit
$12
$10
$42
$31
1 Other stock-based compensation expense includes PSUs, nonemployee director stock awards and ESPP.
The following table summarizes our grant allocations:
Nine Months Ended
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
Granted
Weighted-average grant-date fair value per unit
Granted
Weighted-average grant-date fair value per unit
RSUs
4.6
$15
3.2
$16
Stock options
—
—
1.2
$8
Under our stock-based compensation plan arrangements, we issued 0.7 and 2.5 shares of common stock during the quarter and nine months ended November 2, 2024 and 0.7 and 2.3 shares during the quarter and nine months ended October 28, 2023.
NOTE 6: SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
We have certain limitations with respect to the payment of dividends and share repurchases under our Revolver agreement (see Note 3: Debt and Credit Facilities).
Share Repurchases
In May 2022, our Board of Directors authorized a program to repurchase up to $500 of our outstanding common stock, with no expiration date. We repurchased no shares of common stock during the nine months ended November 2, 2024, compared with 0.03 shares for $1 at an average purchase price per share of $19.41 during the nine months ended October 28, 2023, and had $438 remaining in share repurchase capacity as of November 2, 2024.
Dividends
In November 2024, subsequent to quarter end, we declared a quarterly dividend of $0.19 per share, which will be paid on December 18, 2024 to shareholders of record at the close of business on December 3, 2024.
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
(Dollar and share amounts in millions except per share amounts and where otherwise noted)
The following MD&A provides a narrative of our financial performance and is intended to promote understanding of our results of operations and financial condition. MD&A is provided as a supplement to, and should be read in conjunction with, Item 1. Financial Statements (Unaudited) and generally discusses the results of operations for the quarter and nine months ended November 2, 2024 compared with the quarter and nine months ended October 28, 2023. The following discussion and analysis contains forward-looking statements and should also be read in conjunction with cautionary statements and risks described elsewhere in this Form 10-Q before deciding to purchase, hold or sell shares of our common stock.
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
(Dollar and share amounts in millions except per share amounts and where otherwise noted)
OVERVIEW
Third quarter results reflected continued progress on our 2024 key priorities of driving Nordstrom banner growth, optimizing our operations and building upon the momentum at the Rack. We reported net earnings of $46, or $0.27 per diluted share, and EBIT of $83 in 2024, compared with net earnings of $67, or $0.41 per diluted share, and EBIT of $102 in 2023. In the third quarter of 2024, Adjusted EBIT1 was $97 and Adjusted EPS1 was $0.33, which excluded a $14 million charge related to accelerated technology depreciation. Adjusted EBIT1 of $77 and Adjusted EPS1 of $0.25 in the third quarter of 2023 excluded a favorable $25 million true-up related to the wind-down of Canadian operations.
Total Company net sales increased 4.6% versus the same period in fiscal 2023, and total Company comparable sales increased 4.0%. The timing shift of the Anniversary Sale, with one week shifting from the third quarter to the second quarter, had a negative impact on net sales of approximately 100 basis points compared with the third quarter of 2023. In the third quarter, women’s apparel and active had double-digit growth, and shoes, men’s apparel and kids’ apparel were up mid to high single-digits, versus 2023.
We are committed to improving the customer experience while delivering profitable growth and are encouraged by the progress we made against our key priorities during the third quarter of 2024.
Nordstrom – We continued to make progress during the third quarter in driving Nordstrom banner growth, by offering a curated selection of merchandise with greater depth in our customers’ favorite brands across our fleet, and not just in our largest stores. As an omni-channel retailer, we serve customers when, where, and how they want to shop, and service is always our number one priority. For our customers that prefer to shop online, we aim to make the experience seamless and engaging through technology. Nordstrom.com net sales growth was supported by enhancements to the search and discovery functionality on our site and in our app, as well as improvements in our assortment, especially of items under $100 in price. We also continued to scale our Marketplace business, which now has over 300 sellers offering a wide selection to our customers.
Operational Optimization – We made progress on optimizing our operations, including in our supply chain, to drive improvements in customer experience through faster delivery and moving product efficiently through our network to provide relevance and freshness. In the third quarter, faster fulfillment and delivery of items drove an over 40 percent improvement in the speed of customer returns. Returns that come in faster mean that we can process, inspect and get the items back into our inventory in a sellable condition in less time, increasing the product’s overall full price exposure.
Nordstrom Rack – In our Rack banner, our strategy of offering great brands at great prices helped drive double-digit topline growth in the third quarter. We continued to expand our reach and convenience for customers by opening 12 new Rack stores in the third quarter of 2024 bringing our year to date total to 23 new Rack stores. We believe that Rack stores are a great use of capital, delivering a solid return on investment, while attracting new customers. Rack digital sales growth was driven by an expanded online merchandise offering as well as focused efforts to maintain high in-stock rates in our fastest selling items. Towards the end of the third quarter, we launched store fulfillment for Rack digital orders and buy online pick-up in stores in over 100 of our Rack stores around the country.
Our strategy and focus on the brands that matter most continued to resonate with customers and deliver results, driving positive total company net sales growth for the fourth consecutive quarter. We believe continued execution on our key priorities will help us navigate through the near-term uncertain external environment and position us well to better serve our customers, drive profitable growth and increase shareholder value. Looking ahead, we feel set up for a successful holiday season and are excited to fulfill our brand purpose to help our customers feel good and look their best.
1Adjusted EBIT and adjusted EPS are non-GAAP financial measures. Refer to the “Adjusted EBIT, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBIT Margin and Adjusted EPS” sections of MD&A below for additional information as well as reconciliations between the Company’s GAAP and non-GAAP financial results.
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
(Dollar and share amounts in millions except per share amounts and where otherwise noted)
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
In our ongoing effort to enhance the customer experience, we are focused on providing a seamless retail experience across our Company. We invested early in integrating our operations, merchandising and technology across our stores and online in both our Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack banners. By connecting our digital and physical assets across Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack, we are able to better serve customers when, where and how they want to shop. We have one Retail reportable segment and analyze our results on a total Company basis, using customer, market share, operational and net sales metrics.
Our Anniversary Sale, historically the largest event of the year, typically falls in the second quarter. One week of our Anniversary Sale shifted to the second quarter in 2024 from the third quarter in 2023.
We monitor a number of key operating metrics to evaluate our performance. In addition to net sales, net earnings and other results under GAAP, three other key operating metrics we use are GMV, comparable sales and inventory turnover rate.
•GMV: calculated as the total dollar value of owned and unowned inventory sold through our digital platforms and stores, including the impact of estimated future customer returns and deferred revenue from Nordy Club points and Notes. We use GMV as an indicator of the scale and growth of our operations and the impact of our unowned inventory models.
•Comparable Sales: calculated as the total dollar value of owned and unowned inventory sold through our digital platforms and stores, which are added to the comparable sales base after they have been open for 13 full months or more, and removed in the month of their closure. Comparable sales are net of actual returns. Due to the 53rd week in 2023, we calculate our 2024 comparable sales growth using a realigned 2023 52-week period. We use comparable sales to evaluate the performance of our business without the impact of recently opened or closed stores.
•Inventory Turnover Rate: calculated as the trailing four-quarter merchandise cost of sales divided by the trailing 13-month average inventory. Inventory turnover rate is an indicator of our success in optimizing inventory volumes in accordance with customer demand. Merchandise inventories prior to February 4, 2024 were calculated under the retail inventory method. Effective February 4, 2024, we changed our accounting method to the weighted average cost method, and recorded the cumulative effect of this change in accounting principle in beginning accumulated deficit on our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of February 4, 2024 (see Note 1: Basis of Presentation in Item 1).
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
(Dollar and share amounts in millions except per share amounts and where otherwise noted)
Total Company net sales and GMV increased for the third quarter and nine months ended November 2, 2024, compared with the same periods in 2023. The timing shift of the Anniversary Sale had a negative impact of approximately 100 basis points compared with the third quarter of 2023. For the nine months ended November 2, 2024, the wind-down of Canadian operations had a negative impact on total Company net sales of 25 basis points, as the first quarter of 2023 included one month of Canadian sales. For the third quarter and nine months ended November 2, 2024, women’s apparel and active had the strongest growth compared with the same periods in 2023. Total Company digital sales increased for the third quarter and nine months ended November 2, 2024, compared with the same periods in 2023. The timing shift of the Anniversary Sale had a negative impact on total Company digital sales of approximately 100 basis points compared with the third quarter of 2023. For the third quarter and nine months ended November 2, 2024, comparable sales increased 4.0% and 3.2%.
Nordstrom net sales and GMV increased for the third quarter and nine months ended November 2, 2024, compared with the same periods in 2023. The timing shift of the Anniversary Sale had a negative impact of approximately 200 basis points compared with the third quarter of 2023. For the nine months ended November 2, 2024, the wind-down of Canadian operations had a negative impact on net sales of 35 basis points. For the third quarter of 2024, Nordstrom net sales reflected an increase in the number of items sold, partially offset by a decrease in the average selling price per item sold. For the nine months ended November 2, 2024, Nordstrom net sales reflected an increase in both the number of items sold and the average selling price per item sold. For the third quarter and nine months ended November 2, 2024, comparable sales increased 4.0% and 2.1%.
Nordstrom Rack net sales increased for the third quarter and nine months ended November 2, 2024, compared with the same periods in 2023. For the third quarter of 2024 and nine months ended November 2, 2024 Nordstrom Rack net sales reflected an increase in both the number of items sold and the average selling price per item sold. For the third quarter and nine months ended November 2, 2024, comparable sales increased 3.9% and 5.2%.
Store Count
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
Nordstrom
93
93
Nordstrom Local
6
6
ASOS | Nordstrom
—
1
Nordstrom Rack
280
258
Last Chance clearance stores
2
2
Total
381
360
Credit Card Revenues, Net
Credit card revenues, net decreased $3 and $8 for the third quarter and nine months ended November 2, 2024, compared with the same periods in 2023, primarily due to higher credit losses, partially offset by increased finance charges from higher outstanding balances.
Fiscal Year 2024 Total Revenue Outlook
In fiscal 2024, we expect a total revenue range, including retail sales and credit card revenues, of flat to 1.0% growth compared with the 53-week fiscal 2023, which includes an approximately 135 basis point unfavorable impact from the 53rd week.
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
(Dollar and share amounts in millions except per share amounts and where otherwise noted)
Gross profit increased $71 and 60 basis points as a percent of net sales for the third quarter of 2024, compared with the same period in 2023, primarily due to strong regular price sales. For the nine months ended November 2, 2024, gross profit increased $155, compared with the same period in 2023, primarily due to higher sales, partially offset by higher buying and occupancy costs. For the nine months ended November 2, 2024, gross profit as a percent of net sales was approximately flat, compared with the same period in 2023.
Ending inventory as of November 2, 2024 increased 5.9%, compared with the same period in 2023, versus a 4.6% increase in sales for the third quarter of 2024.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
SG&A is summarized in the following table:
Quarter Ended
Nine Months Ended
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
SG&A
$1,225
$1,163
$3,680
$3,466
SG&A as a % of net sales
36.6%
36.3%
35.5%
34.9%
SG&A increased $62 and 25 basis points as a percent of net sales for the third quarter of 2024, compared with the same period in 2023, primarily due to higher labor costs and a charge related to accelerated technology depreciation, partially offset by leverage on higher sales and improvements in variable costs across the business. For the nine months ended November 2, 2024, SG&A increased $214, compared with the same period in 2023, primarily due to higher sales volume and charges related to a supply chain asset impairment and accelerated technology depreciation. For the nine months ended November 2, 2024, SG&A as a percent of net sales increased 60 basis points, compared with the same period in 2023, primarily due to charges related to a supply chain asset impairment and accelerated technology depreciation.
Canada Wind-down Costs
We recognized charges associated with the wind-down of Canadian operations of $284 in the nine months ended October 28, 2023, including a favorable adjustment of $25 in the third quarter of 2023.
Earnings Before Interest and Income Taxes
EBIT is summarized in the following table:
Quarter Ended
Nine Months Ended
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
EBIT
$83
$102
$252
$35
EBIT margin
2.5%
3.2%
2.4%
0.4%
EBIT decreased $19 and 70 basis points as a percent of net sales for the third quarter of 2024, compared with the same period in 2023, primarily due to higher labor costs and a 2023 favorable impact of $25 from the wind-down of Canadian operations, partially offset by higher sales volume.
EBIT increased $217 and 210 basis points as a percent of net sales for the nine months ended November 2, 2024, compared with the same period in 2023, primarily due to higher sales, partially offset by a charge primarily related to a supply chain asset impairment. The nine months ended October 28, 2023 included $284 of expenses associated with the wind-down of Canadian operations.
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
(Dollar and share amounts in millions except per share amounts and where otherwise noted)
Interest Expense, Net
Interest expense, net is summarized in the following table:
Quarter Ended
Nine Months Ended
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
Interest on long-term debt and short-term borrowings
$35
$37
$107
$111
Interest income
(7)
(9)
(22)
(24)
Capitalized interest
(2)
(4)
(6)
(9)
Interest expense, net
$26
$24
$79
$78
Interest expense, net increased$2 for the third quarter of 2024 and increased $1 for the nine months ended November 2, 2024, compared with the same periods in 2023, primarily due to decreased capitalized interest. In addition, interest on long-term debt decreased due to the retirement of our 2.30% senior notes in April 2024.
Income Tax Expense
Income tax expense (benefit) is summarized in the following table:
Quarter Ended
Nine Months Ended
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
Income tax expense (benefit)
$11
$11
$45
($43)
Effective tax rate
18.9
%
14.2
%
25.7
%
99.7
%
The effective tax rate increased in the third quarter of 2024, compared with the same period in 2023, primarily due to a decrease in tax benefits related to the wind-down of Canadian operations. The effective tax rate decreased for the nine months ended November 2, 2024, compared with the same period in 2023, primarily due to the favorable resolution of certain tax matters and net tax benefits of $95 related to the wind-down of Canadian operations, both recognized in the nine months ended October 28, 2023.
Earnings Per Share
EPS is as follows:
Quarter Ended
Nine Months Ended
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
Basic
$0.28
$0.41
$0.78
$—
Diluted
$0.27
$0.41
$0.76
$—
Diluted EPS decreased $0.14 for the third quarter of 2024, compared with the same period in 2023, primarily due to higher labor costs and an accelerated technology depreciation charge that had a net unfavorable impact of $0.06 per diluted share, partially offset by higher sales volume. The third quarter of 2023 included an adjustment from the wind-down of Canadian operations that increased diluted EPS by $0.16 per diluted share.
For the nine months ended November 2, 2024, diluted EPS increased $0.76 compared with the same period in 2023, primarily due to higher sales volume, partially offset by charges related to a supply chain asset impairment and accelerated technology depreciation, which had a net unfavorable impact of $0.30 per diluted share. Charges related to the wind-down of Canadian operations decreased diluted EPS by $1.16 per diluted share for the nine months ended October 28, 2023.
The following are key financial metrics and, when used in conjunction with GAAP measures, we believe they provide useful information for evaluating our core business performance, enable comparison of financial results across periods and allow for greater transparency with respect to key metrics used by management for financial and operational decision-making. Adjusted EBIT, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBIT margin and Adjusted EPS exclude certain items that we do not consider representative of our core operating performance. The financial measure calculated under GAAP which is most directly comparable to Adjusted EBIT and Adjusted EBITDA is net earnings. The financial measure calculated under GAAP which is most directly comparable to Adjusted EBIT margin is net earnings as a percent of net sales. The financial measure calculated under GAAP which is most directly comparable to Adjusted EPS is diluted EPS.
Adjusted EBIT, Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted EBIT margin and Adjusted EPS are not measures of financial performance under GAAP and should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for, net earnings, net earnings as a percent of net sales, operating cash flows, earnings per share, earnings per diluted share or other financial measures performed in accordance with GAAP. Our method of determining non-GAAP financial measures may differ from other companies’ financial measures and therefore may not be comparable to methods used by other companies.
The following is a reconciliation of net earnings to Adjusted EBIT and Adjusted EBITDA and net earnings as a percent of net sales to Adjusted EBIT margin:
Quarter Ended
Nine Months Ended
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
Net earnings
$46
$67
$128
$—
Income tax expense (benefit)
11
11
45
(43)
Interest expense, net
26
24
79
78
Earnings before interest and income taxes
83
102
252
35
Accelerated technology depreciation1
14
—
14
—
Supply chain asset impairment and other
—
—
54
—
Canada wind-down costs
—
(25)
—
284
Adjusted EBIT
97
77
320
319
Depreciation and amortization expenses
148
145
451
430
Amortization of developer reimbursements
(14)
(17)
(44)
(52)
Adjusted EBITDA
$231
$205
$727
$697
Net sales
$3,347
$3,200
$10,353
$9,926
Net earnings as a % of net sales
1.4
%
2.1
%
1.2
%
—
%
EBIT margin
2.5
%
3.2
%
2.4
%
0.4
%
Adjusted EBIT margin
2.9
%
2.4
%
3.1
%
3.2
%
1 As a result of a strategic decision, we recognized a charge related to incremental accelerated depreciation for a technology asset, which we will deprecate in the fourth quarter of 2024. The charge is included in our Corporate/Other SG&A expense on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Earnings and depreciation and amortization expenses on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows.
The following is a reconciliation of diluted EPS to Adjusted EPS:
Quarter Ended
Nine Months Ended
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
Diluted EPS
$0.27
$0.41
$0.76
$—
Accelerated technology depreciation
0.08
—
0.08
—
Supply chain asset impairment and other
—
—
0.32
—
Canada wind-down costs
—
(0.15)
—
1.74
Income tax impact on adjustments1
(0.02)
(0.01)
(0.10)
(0.58)
Adjusted EPS
$0.33
$0.25
$1.06
$1.16
1 The income tax impact of non-GAAP adjustments is calculated using the estimated tax rate for the respective non-GAAP adjustment.
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
(Dollar and share amounts in millions except per share amounts and where otherwise noted)
Adjusted ROIC (Non-GAAP financial measure)
We believe that Adjusted ROIC is a useful financial measure for investors in evaluating the efficiency and effectiveness of the capital we have invested in our business to generate returns over time. Our Adjusted ROIC calculation excludes certain items that we do not consider representative of our core operating performance.
Adjusted ROIC is not a measure of financial performance under GAAP and should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for, return on assets, net earnings, total assets or other GAAP financial measures. Our method of calculating a non-GAAP financial measure may differ from other companies’ methods and therefore may not be comparable to those used by other companies. The financial measure calculated under GAAP which is most directly comparable to Adjusted ROIC is return on assets. The following shows the components to reconcile the return on assets calculation to Adjusted ROIC:
Four Quarters Ended
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
Net earnings
$263
$119
Income tax expense (benefit)
99
(2)
Interest expense
137
136
Earnings before interest and income tax expense
499
253
Operating lease interest1
90
86
Non-operating related adjustments2
99
284
Adjusted net operating profit
688
623
Adjusted estimated income tax expense3
(187)
(144)
Adjusted net operating profit after tax
$501
$479
Average total assets
$8,779
$8,956
Average noncurrent deferred property incentives in excess of ROU assets4
(128)
(167)
Average non-interest bearing current liabilities
(2,992)
(3,134)
Non-operating related adjustments2
44
294
Adjusted average invested capital
$5,703
$5,949
Return on assets
3.0
%
1.3
%
Adjusted ROIC
8.8
%
8.1
%
1 Operating lease interest is a component of operating lease cost recorded in occupancy costs. We add back operating lease interest for purposes of calculating adjusted net operating profit for consistency with the treatment of interest expense on our debt.
2 Non-operating related adjustments primarily included supply chain impairment charges and accelerated technology depreciation for the four quarters ended November 2, 2024 and the wind-down of our Canadian operations for the four quarters ended October 28, 2023. See the Adjusted EBIT and Adjusted EBITDA section, as well as our 2023 Annual Report, for detailed information on certain non-operating related adjustments.
3 Adjusted estimated income tax expense is calculated by multiplying the adjusted net operating profit by the adjusted effective tax rate (which removes the impact of non-operating related adjustments) for the trailing twelve-month periods ended November 2, 2024 and October 28, 2023. The adjusted effective tax rate is calculated by dividing adjusted income tax expense by adjusted earnings before income taxes for the same trailing twelve-month periods.
4 For leases with property incentives that exceed the ROU assets, we reclassify the amount from assets to other current liabilities and other liabilities on the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. The current and noncurrent amounts are used to reduce average total assets above, as this better reflects how we manage our business.
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
(Dollar and share amounts in millions except per share amounts and where otherwise noted)
LIQUIDITY
We strive to maintain a level of liquidity sufficient to allow us to cover our seasonal cash needs and appropriate levels of short-term borrowing capacity. In the short term, our ongoing working capital and capital expenditure requirements, and any dividend payments or share repurchases, are generally funded through cash flows generated from operations. In addition, we have access to the commercial paper market and can draw on our Revolver for working capital, capital expenditures and general corporate purposes. Over the long term, we manage our cash and capital structure to maximize shareholder return, maintain our financial position, manage refinancing risk and allow flexibility for strategic initiatives. We regularly assess our debt and leverage levels, capital expenditure requirements, debt service payments, dividend payouts, share repurchases and other future investments.
We ended the third quarter of 2024 with $397 in cash and cash equivalents and $772 of additional liquidity available on our Revolver. Cash and cash equivalents as of November 2, 2024 increased $22 from $375 as of October 28, 2023, driven primarily by cash flows from earnings, partially offset by payments for capital expenditures and principal payments on long-term debt.
During the first quarter of 2024, we retired our 2.30% senior notes that were due in April 2024 using cash on hand. We believe that our cash flows from operations are sufficient to meet our cash requirements for the next 12 months and beyond. Our cash requirements are subject to change as business conditions warrant and opportunities arise, and we may elect to raise additional funds in the future through the issuance of either debt or equity.
The following is a summary of our cash flows by activity:
Nine Months Ended
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
Net cash provided by operating activities
$371
$107
Net cash used in investing activities
(294)
(376)
Net cash used in financing activities
(308)
(43)
Operating Activities
Net cash provided by operating activities increased $264 for the nine months ended November 2, 2024, compared with the same period in 2023, primarily due to changes in working capital driven by payroll timing and the tax benefits associated with the Canada wind-down in 2023.
Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities decreased $82 for the nine months ended November 2, 2024, compared with the same period in 2023, primarily due to decreased capital expenditures related to technology and cost efficiencies for Nordstrom Rack store openings, as well as the decrease in cash and cash equivalents resulting from the deconsolidation of Canada in 2023 (see Note 1: Basis of Presentation in Item 1).
Capital Expenditures
Our capital expenditures, net are summarized as follows:
Nine Months Ended
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
Capital expenditures
$321
$375
Deferred property incentives1
(7)
(25)
Capital expenditures, net
$314
$350
Capital expenditures as a % of net sales
3.1
%
3.8
%
1 Deferred property incentives are included in our net cash provided by operating activities in our Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in Item 1. We operationally view the property incentives we receive from our developers and vendors as an offset to our capital expenditures.
Financing Activities
Net cash used in financing activities increased $265 for the nine months ended November 2, 2024, compared with the same period in 2023, primarily due to the retirement of our 2.30% senior notes due April 2024 using cash on hand (see Note 3: Debt and Credit Facilities in Item 1).
Dividends
We paid dividends of $93 and $92 for the nine months ended November 2, 2024 and October 28, 2023, or $0.57 per share for each year-to-date period.
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
(Dollar and share amounts in millions except per share amounts and where otherwise noted)
Free Cash Flow (Non-GAAP Financial Measure)
Free Cash Flow is one of our key liquidity measures and, when used in conjunction with GAAP measures, we believe it provides investors with a meaningful analysis of our ability to generate cash from our business.
Free Cash Flow is not a measure of financial performance under GAAP and should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for, operating cash flows or other financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP. Our method of calculating a non-GAAP financial measure may differ from other companies’ methods and therefore may not be comparable to those used by other companies. The financial measure calculated under GAAP which is most directly comparable to Free Cash Flow is net cash provided by operating activities. The following is a reconciliation of net cash provided by operating activities to Free Cash Flow:
Nine Months Ended
November 2, 2024
October 28, 2023
Net cash provided by operating activities
$371
$107
Capital expenditures
(321)
(375)
Change in cash book overdrafts
28
37
Free Cash Flow
$78
($231)
CAPITAL RESOURCES
Borrowing Capacity and Activity
As of November 2, 2024, we had no outstanding borrowings under the Revolver and a $28 outstanding standby letter of credit resulting in available short-term borrowing capacity of $772. As of November 2, 2024, we had no issuances outstanding under our commercial paper program. For more information about our credit facilities, see Note 3: Debt and Credit Facilities in Item 1.
Impact of Credit Ratings and Revolver Covenants
Changes in our credit ratings may impact our costs to borrow and whether our personal property secures our Revolver.
For our Revolver, the interest rate applicable to any borrowings we may enter into depends upon the type of borrowing incurred plus an applicable margin, which is determined based on our credit ratings. At the time of this report, our credit ratings and outlook were as follows:
Credit Ratings
Outlook
Moody’s
Ba2
Stable
S&P Global Ratings
BB+
Negative
Fitch Ratings
BB
Stable
Should the ratings assigned to our long-term debt improve, the applicable margin associated with any borrowings under the Revolver may decrease, resulting in a lower borrowing cost under this facility. Conversely, should the ratings assigned to our long-term debt worsen, the applicable margin associated with any borrowings under the Revolver may increase, resulting in a higher borrowing cost under this facility.
As of November 2, 2024, we were in compliance with all covenants. We have certain limitations with respect to the payment of dividends and share repurchases under our Revolver agreement. For more information about our Revolver covenants, see Note 3: Debt and Credit Facilities in Item 1.
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
(Dollar and share amounts in millions except per share amounts and where otherwise noted)
Adjusted Debt to EBITDAR (Non-GAAP Financial Measure)
Adjusted debt to EBITDAR is one of our key financial metrics and we believe that our debt levels are best analyzed using this measure, as it provides a reflection of our creditworthiness, which could impact our credit ratings and borrowing costs. This metric is calculated in accordance with our Revolver covenant and is a key component in assessing whether our revolving credit facility is secured or unsecured, as well as our ability to make dividend payments and share repurchases. For more information regarding our Revolver, see Note 3: Debt and Credit Facilities in Item 1.
Adjusted debt to EBITDAR is not a measure of financial performance under GAAP and should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for, debt to net earnings, net earnings, debt or other GAAP financial measures. Our method of calculating a non-GAAP financial measure may differ from other companies’ methods and therefore may not be comparable to those used by other companies. The financial measure calculated under GAAP which is most directly comparable to Adjusted debt to EBITDAR is debt to net earnings. The following shows the components to reconcile the debt to net earnings calculation to Adjusted debt to EBITDAR:
November 2, 2024
Debt
$2,617
Operating lease liabilities
1,694
Adjusted debt
$4,311
Four Quarters Ended November 2, 2024
Net earnings
$263
Income tax expense
99
Interest expense, net
105
Earnings before interest and income taxes
467
Depreciation and amortization expenses
607
Operating Lease Cost
292
Amortization of developer reimbursements1
62
Other Revolver covenant adjustments2
138
Adjusted EBITDAR
$1,566
Debt to Net Earnings
10.0
Adjusted debt to EBITDAR
2.8
1 Amortization of developer reimbursements is a non-cash reduction of Operating Lease Cost and is therefore added back to Operating Lease Cost for purposes of our Revolver covenant calculation.
2 Other adjusting items to reconcile net earnings to Adjusted EBITDAR as defined by our Revolver covenant include interest income, certain non-cash charges and other gains and losses where relevant. For the four quarters ended November 2, 2024, other Revolver covenant adjustments primarily included supply chain impairment charges, interest income and accelerated technology depreciation. See the Adjusted EBIT and Adjusted EBITDA section, as well as our 2023 Annual Report, for detailed information on certain non-operating related adjustments.
Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
(Dollar and share amounts in millions except per share amounts and where otherwise noted)
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
The preparation of our financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires that we make estimates, judgments and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities.
We base our estimates on historical experience and other assumptions that we believe to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates. We believe that the estimates, assumptions and judgments involved in the accounting policies referred to in our 2023 Annual Report have the greatest potential effect on our financial statements, so we consider those to be our critical accounting policies and estimates. Our management has discussed the development and selection of these critical accounting estimates with the Audit & Finance Committee of our Board of Directors. There have been no material changes to our significant accounting policies or critical accounting estimates as described in our 2023 Annual Report, except as noted below.
Merchandise Inventories
Merchandise inventories are stated at the lower of cost or net realizable value using the weighted average cost method. Under this method, the weighted average purchase price is calculated and applied to owned inventory units. We record reserves for excess and obsolete inventory based on specific identification of units with a current retail value below cost, plus an estimate of future markdowns below cost, which considers the age of inventory and historical trends.
We take physical inventory counts at our stores and Supply Chain Network locations and adjust for differences between recorded and counted amounts. Following each physical inventory cycle and using the most recent physical inventory count and historical results, we record an estimate for shrink as a percentage of weighted average cost until the next physical inventory count.
RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
In March 2024, the SEC adopted the final rule under SEC Release No. 33-11275, The Enhancement and Standardization of Climate-Related Disclosures for Investors, which requires new disclosures regarding information about a registrant’s climate-related risks that have materially impacted, or are reasonably likely to have a material impact on, its business strategy, results of operations or financial condition. In addition, certain disclosures related to severe weather events and other natural conditions will also be required in a registrant’s audited financial statements. In April 2024, the SEC voluntarily stayed the final rules as a result of pending legal challenges. Annual disclosure requirements will be effective for us in the fourth quarter of 2025, pending resolution of the stay. We are evaluating the impact of this final rule on our disclosures.
Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk.
We discussed our interest rate risk and foreign currency exchange risk in our 2023 Annual Report. There have been no material changes to these risks since that time.
For the purposes of the Exchange Act, our Chief Executive Officer, Erik B. Nordstrom, serves as our principal executive officer and our Chief Financial Officer, Catherine R. Smith, is our principal financial officer and principal accounting officer.
Under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, we have performed an evaluation of the design and effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the last day of the period covered by this report.
Based upon that evaluation, our principal executive officer and principal financial officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective. Disclosure controls and procedures are defined by Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Exchange Act as controls and other procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified within the SEC’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
CHANGES IN INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
There have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) or 15d-15(f) of the Exchange Act) during our most recently completed fiscal quarter that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
PART II — OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1. Legal Proceedings.
We are subject from time to time to various claims and lawsuits arising in the ordinary course of business, including lawsuits alleging violations of state and/or federal wage and hour and other employment laws, privacy and other consumer-based claims. Some of these lawsuits may include certified classes of litigants, or purport or may be determined to be class or collective actions and seek substantial damages or injunctive relief, or both, and some may remain unresolved for several years. We believe the recorded accruals in our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are adequate in light of the probable and estimable liabilities.
On March 2, 2023, Nordstrom Canada commenced a wind-down of its business operations pursuant to a CCAA proceeding overseen by the Ontario Superior Court of Justice. See Note 1: Basis of Presentation in Part I for more information.
As of the date of this report, we do not believe any other currently identified claim, proceeding or litigation, either alone or in the aggregate, will have a material impact on our results of operations, financial position or cash flows. Since these matters are subject to inherent uncertainties, our view of them may change in the future.
Item 1A. Risk Factors.
There have been no material changes to the Risk Factors described in our 2023 Annual Report, as supplemented by our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed with the SEC on September 5, 2024.
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds.
(c) SHARE REPURCHASES
(Dollar and share amounts in millions, except per share amounts)
We repurchased no shares of common stock during the third quarter of 2024 and we had $438 remaining in share repurchase capacity as of November 2, 2024. See Note 6: Shareholders’ Equity in Part I for more information about our May 2022 share repurchase program.
Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities.
None.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.
None.
Item 5. Other Information.
During the fiscal quarter ended November 2, 2024, no director or officer of the Company adopted, modified or terminated a “Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement” or “non-Rule 10b5-1 trading arrangement,” as each term is defined in Item 408(a) of the SEC’s Regulation S-K.
Item 6. Exhibits.
(a) The information required under this item is incorporated herein by reference or filed or furnished as part of this report at:
All other exhibits are omitted because they are not applicable, not required or because the information required has been given as part of this report.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
NORDSTROM, INC.
(Registrant)
/s/ Catherine R. Smith
Catherine R. Smith
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer)
