California Apparel News

Nordstrom Inc. named Ken Worzel president of Nordstrom.com in an effort to strengthen Nordstrom’s online and m-commerce business.

Previously, Worzel worked as the retailer’s executive vice president of strategy and development, said Erik Nordstrom, a co-president of the Seattle retailer.

“Ken has gained a deep understanding of how our e-commerce, digital and mobile efforts play an integral role in providing customers a differentiated experience through service, personalization and convenience,” Nordstrom said.

It was also announced that the three Nordstrom brothers will have new responsibilities at the company with a fleet of 329 stores that operate nameplates Nordstrom, the off-pricer Nordstrom Rack and two Jeffrey boutiques. Its online stores have nameplates of Nordstrom.com, Nordstromrack.com and HauteLook.

Erik Nordstrom will be responsible for the Nordstrom brand as well as the retailer’s customer care, marketing and supply chain. Blake Nordstrom, a co-president, will be responsible for the Nordstrom Rack brand, HauteLook and other corporate responsibilities such as finance, technology, legal and human resources. Pete Nordstrom, a co-president, will support Nordstrom’s merchandising functions and store planning.

The company’s stock declined 1.14 percent one day after the Sept. 21 announcement. Nordstrom has long been considered by Wall Street as a blue-chip department store. But the tough retail market affected its recent business. Same-store sales for the second quarter decreased 1.2 percent, it was announced Aug. 11. Total company net sales of $3.6 billion for the second quarter declined 0.2 percent compared with the same quarter of the previous fiscal year.

Also on Sept. 21, it was announced that a Nordstrom Rack will open at the IDS Center’s Crystal Court on Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis.