J. C. Penney Company, Inc. reported February comparable department store sales decreased 2.1 percent for the four weeks ended February 22, 2003, compared with last year’s strong 12.5 percent gain.

The best performing category for the month was Fine Jewelry, reflecting Valentine’s Day results, followed by Home, which also had strong sales.

Catalog sales decreased 11.2 percent, which was better than plan. Internet sales, which are included in catalog, continue to strengthen increasing by 40 percent.