The Bon-Ton Stores sales for the five weeks ended July 3, 2004 decreased 3.2% to $61.2 million compared to $63.2 million for the same period last year. The acquired Elder-Beerman stores reported a 1.9% decline to $52.7 million. Bon-Ton comparable store sales decreased 3.8%.
Year-to-date total sales increased 85.7% to $474.1 million, including $220.6 million from the acquired Elder-Beerman stores, compared to $255.4 million for the same period last year. Bon-Ton comparable store sales decreased 1.5%.
Elder-Beerman sales are not included in the Company's reported comparable store sales. Elder-Beerman comparable store sales for the five weeks ended July 3, 2004 decreased 2.4% and year-to-date comparable store sales decreased 2.5%. For Elder-Beerman and Bon-Ton combined, comparable store sales for the five weeks ended July 3, 2004 decreased 3.2% and year-to-date comparable store sales decreased 2.0%.
James H. Baireuther, Vice Chairman and Chief Administrative Officer, commented, “June sales results were disappointing as trends which were strong in May did not continue in June. Store traffic was down reflecting unseasonable weather and continued consumer economic pressures. Home, cosmetics and accessories had sales increases for the month. We are pleased that inventory is in line with the plan and we are effectively reducing our seasonal inventory levels. We continue to focus on the integration of the Bon-Ton and Elder-Beerman operations.”
