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On one hand, it would be terrific if Nordstrom would stay somewhere on upper Main Street. On the other hand, if the retail giant isn't allowed to move a few blocks west to The Gateway, company officials say they would leave Salt Lake City altogether.
It doesn't appear to be an idle threat.
As the decision time approaches on this important issue, KSL believes it is essential to keep in mind the impact losing Nordstrom altogether would have on the future of retail throughout Salt Lake City, but especially the greater downtown area.
If Salt Lake City can't keep Nordstrom, whether on Main Street or at The Gateway, what will come of the city's ability in the future to attract the kind of magnet/destination shopping that a Nordstrom or Neiman-Marcus or Bloomingdales represents?
Such nationally reputable businesses generally affect much more than retail growth. Most often, they bring social vibrancy and economic vitality to any area where they are located. Along with jobs, they are known for stimulating shopper traffic, which in turn, benefits smaller neighboring retailers, many of which are homegrown.
As the debate proceeds, KSL urges city officials and business leaders to focus more on ways to keep Nordstrom in the capital city and less on efforts to try to make the influential retailer stay at its current location.
