The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. announced total sales for the five weeks ended October 2, 2004 increased 82.9% to $114.8 million, including $52.0 million from the acquired Elder-Beerman stores, compared to $62.8 million for the same period last year. Bon-Ton comparable store sales decreased 0.1%.
Year-to-date total sales increased 85.2% to $750.2 million, including $348.2 million from the acquired Elder-Beerman stores, compared to $405.0 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 and the following comparable store sales are provided for informational purposes only. Elder-Beerman comparable store sales for the five weeks ended October 2, 2004 decreased 13.5% and year-to-date comparable store sales decreased 4.5%. For Elder-Beerman and Bon-Ton combined, comparable store sales for the five weeks ended October 2, 2004 decreased 6.6% and year-to-date comparable store sales decreased 2.9%.
James H. Baireuther, Vice Chairman and Chief Administrative Officer, commented, “We are disappointed with September sales, particularly in the Elder-Beerman stores, underscoring a decline in consumer confidence, rising gas prices and the challenges of integrating two companies. Overall, sales exceeded the prior year in misses' sportswear and cosmetics. Several other categories performed well in the Bon-Ton stores, including home, shoes, intimate and accessories. We are encouraged by the customer response to our fall assortment. However, there were other areas where sales were difficult, including men's, children's and junior's.”
