The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. announced total and comparable store sales for December increased 0.8% to $259.9 million compared to $257.8 million for the same period last year.

Year-to-date total sales decreased 1.9% to $1.224.4 million compared to $1,248.1 million for the same period last year. Comparable store sales decreased 1.7%.

James H. Baireuther, vice chairman and chief administrative officer, commented, “The comparable store sales performance for December reflects an improvement over our annual trend. Product categories which performed well during the month were women's special size apparel, shoes, home, including furniture, cosmetics, fashion accessories, men's, juniors and intimate apparel. As we transition to our spring assortment, we maintain our focus on clearing fall and holiday merchandise.”