Kellwood Co. said its Other Soft Goods division, which includes American Recreation, “continued to produce excellent results” in the fourth quarter of 2006 achieving a 9% increase in sales to $84.5 million. Other Softgoods includes the American Recreation business, which makes Kelty, Sierra Designs, Slumberjack, SwissGear, Wenzel and Wenger, as well as Eddie Bauer outdoor gear under license. The division also includes Gerber children’s wear.

Growth was realized across both the children's and recreation product categories. Operating earnings grew 7% to $9.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2006. Operating earnings as a percentage of net sales were relatively flat with last year at 11.1%.

Overall, Kellwood reported earnings from continuing operations rose to $6.5 million, or 25 cents per share, in the fourth quarter from $4.1 million, or 16 cents, last year. Sales improved to $491.9 million from to $446.5 million in the fourth quarter last year. Included in net earnings from continuing operations for the current quarter were restructuring and other non-recurring after tax charges of $4.9 million, or 19 cents a share, versus $2.1 million (after tax), or $0.08 per diluted share, last year associated with the company's previously announced strategic restructuring initiatives.

Kellwood’s other brands include Sag Harbor, Calvin Klein women's, XOXO, Phat Farm, My Michelle and Vince.

Kellwood’s other brands include Sag Harbor, Calvin Klein women's, XOXO, Phat Farm, My Michelle and Vince.