The Bon-Ton Stores comparable store sales for the five weeks ended October 4, 2003 increased 2.7%. Total sales for September increased 2.0% to $62.8 million versus $61.5 million reported for the same period last year.
Year-to-date total sales decreased 2.0% to $405.0 million from $413.1 million reported for the same period last year. Comparable store sales decreased 1.3%.
James H. Baireuther, Vice Chairman and Chief Administrative Officer, commented, “We are pleased with September comparable store sales, which were aided by the arrival of seasonably cooler weather. The positive results reflect our ability to offer customers a full assortment of fall fashions and great values as we transition from the spring/summer season into the fall/holiday season. Coats, children's, shoes, women's, intimate, home and cosmetics all had increases above company average for the month. We are also encouraged with our inventory position as we enter the very important holiday selling season.”
