The first Manhattan full-line store of Nordstrom is opening on 12 April at 57th and Broadway. The first part is a three-floor men's clothing and grooming supplies unit. According to commentators, the store, arriving in New York just as other retailers are leaving the city, will stand as a test case for the future of department stores. The aim is to combine cutting-edge technology with old-school in-store service. If a customer needs a tie at 2 in the morning, he can order it online and a Nordstrom employee will meet him at a store entrance — no matter the hour. Returns can be made by simply scanning an item at a digital kiosk and depositing it in a bin — no human interaction needed.

The store offers a number of exclusives such as Jack Erwin, Cole Haan NYCH, Strong Suit by Ilaria Urbinati as well as proprietary styles from more widely distributed brands. There is also a coffee shop and a « clubhouse » bar/restaurant overlooking Columbus Circle.

An even larger women's store will be opened across the street in autumn 2019, a totally new building on 30 000 m². The total cost of the project is estimated at $500m.

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