The Vancouver, WA based Papa Murphy’s plans to close up to 16 of its stores by year end. Jean Birch, board chair and interim chief executive replaced Ken Calwell, who took the company public in 2014. Calwell resigned in January. Founded in 1981 Papa Murphy’s, has more than 1,500 franchised and corporate-owned stores in 39 states, Canada and the United Arab Emirates. (OregonLive)

The Nordstrom family is thinking of taking back complete ownership of the company. The board has formed a special committee of independent directors to evaluate the possible change. (The Washington Post)

Buy your next car online? Amazon has started hiring people to sell cars online in Europe. A German trade magazine reports the company plans to run the business out of Luxembourg, and it’s looking at Britain as a possible test market. (CNBC)

The NFIB Small Business Optimism Index for May matched its strong performance in April of 104.5. The Index has been at a historically high level for six straight months. Five of the Index components posted a gain, four declined, and one remained unchanged. Hiring activity is near the highest levels in the 43-year history of the Index.

With Northwest Quadrant Wealth Management, a Registered Investment Advisor I am Troy Reinhart.