John Rogers Comments on Nordstrom Inc.

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Oct 24, 2013
Also, premier department store Nordstrom, Inc. (JWN) returned -5.74% due to slow sales and a scaled-back outlook. Its EPS of $0.93 actually exceeded the $0.88 consensus earnings expectation. Still, management noted the "softer than anticipated" sales trends and lowered its EPS guidance from the $3.65 to the $3.80 range to between $3.60 to $3.70. We strongly agree with management that the phenomenon is cyclical and short-term rather than a long-term issue. The company continues to stand out for its great brand, phenomenal customer service, energetic growth in its Nordstrom Rack stores, and so forth. Long-term we think most department stores are positioned to struggle, but Nordstrom is poised to thrive.

From John Rogers' Ariel Fund third quarter 2013 commentary.