Payless August Comps Jump 6.1%

Payless ShoeSource reported that same-store sales increased 6.1% during the August reporting period, the four weeks ended August 27, 2005. Company sales totaled $218.8 million, a 3.9% increase from $210.5 million during fiscal August of last year.

    Sales were as follows (unaudited):



                     AUGUST SALES* (DOLLARS IN MILLIONS)
    Fiscal                  Fiscal        Percent      Same-Store Sales***
    2005**                  2004**        Increase/    Percent
                                         (Decrease)    Increase/(Decrease)


    $218.8                  $210.5          3.9%            6.1%

                  YEAR-TO-DATE SALES* (DOLLARS IN BILLIONS)
    Fiscal                  Fiscal        Percent      Same-Store Sales***
    2005**                  2004**        Increase/    Percent
                                         (Decrease)    Increase/(Decrease)


    $1.61                   $1.60           0.6%            2.6%

“We were pleased with our August sales results, which reflected positive consumer response to our Back-to-School offerings during the month,” said Matt Rubel, Chief Executive Officer and President. “Looking forward, we are focused on achieving low single-digit positive same-store sales growth, through more consistent execution of our strategy throughout the Payless organization: building stronger emotional connections with the consumer through enticing product, powerful brand communications and a compelling point of sale experience.”