In December of 2013, Nordstrom Inc. announced plans to open a Nordstrom Rack, the discount store of upscale retailer, Nordstrom, in the Plaza at Jordan Creek in West Des Moines.  Less than a year later, the Rack opens for business. 

The 35,000 square-foot building, located at 320 S. Jordan Creek Parkway, held its grand opening on Oct. 24 at 8 a.m.  It was accompanied by music, coffee and treats.  Thirty $100 gift cards were awarded, and one $1000 shopping spree. 

Though Nordstrom has operated a 628,560 square-foot distribution center in Cedar Rapids since 1997, the Jordan Creek location is the first retail location in Iowa.  With 167 current Nordstrom Rack locations, the company plans to expand to 230 stores by the end of 2016. 

The Rack offers clothing for men, women, children, premium denim, handbags, jewelry, beauty and bath products, home furnishings and shoes, all sold for 30 to 70 percent off the regular price.  Kate Spade, Hugo Boss and Vince Camuto are among the many brands expected to be seen at the new location. 

Neatly organized merchandise is among the many perks of Nordstrom Rack. The store also offers on-site alterations which is now a rarity within department stores.  A mobile checkout and Rack app are also offered for the more tech-savvy customers. The mobile checkout allows customers to avoid long lines and finish transactions on mobile devices. 

The Rack is part of a new development positioned next to HomeGoods and Dick’s Sporting Goods.  The variety of stores is said to increase foot traffic entering Nordstrom Rack. 

Each area of the store is labeled clearly for the customers ease.  Shoes are separated by designer and non-designer areas.  The clothing racks are accompanied by a sign of what specific brand is held on that rack.  The organization, great deals and outstanding customer service the Rack offers set it apart from other local department stores in the metro area.