It sells about 10% marked down fashion merchandise from full line stores, 25% is private label and the rest is specially bought merchandise at regular prices.

FORBES: Off-Price Shopping Centers are changing to Value Centers

The company's marketing manager, Lukman, watched from his office on the second floor as the soldiers asked rioters to line up for merchandise.

CNN: PEOPLE POWER

Bringing in new merchandise like the Joe Fresh clothing line and more exclusive brands for a younger shopper, adding boutiques within the stores, modernizing the home department and creating new marketing were all sorely needed.

FORBES: Ron Johnson Out At J.C. Penney, Ending Its Year Of Living Dangerously

The line, which boasted merchandise from 24 upscale designers such as Diane von Furstenberg, Oscar de la Renta and Tracy Reese, was priced too high, was ill-timed within the holiday season, and the retailer overestimated product demand, Joshua Thomas, a Target spokesman, told Forbes, during a preview of a spring fashion collection from celebrity stylist Kate Young in New York City this week.

FORBES: Target Reveals What Went Wrong With Neiman Holiday Line, Has High Hopes for Kate Young Collection

The 58-year-old flea market merchant, who carried bags of merchandise in her arms as she waited in line to vote before heading to work Sunday morning, said money was tight, and the economy was a key issue for her in this year's election.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

About 10% of the merchandise is mark-down goods from the full-line stores while the remaining 90% is bought specifically for the Rack store including some vendor closeouts.

FORBES: Nordstrom: An Impressive Growth Outlook for a Unique Retailer

But as the company dramatically overhauls its stores into mini malls featuring certain brands or types of merchandise, will shoppers hang in there to the finish line?

FORBES: Will JC Penney Shoppers Accompany The Retailer To The Finish Line?

Every time I walk into a Nordstrom full-line department store I am impressed with the service and excited by the merchandise assortments and displays.

FORBES: Nordstrom: An Impressive Growth Outlook for a Unique Retailer