Stein Mart, Inc. reported comparable store sales for the four-week period ended April 30, 2011 increased 4.2 percent. Total sales for the period were $96.0 million, an increase of 3.3 percent from $92.9 million in the same period in 2010. For the first quarter, comparable store sales increased by 1.5 percent.







































































































             
Percent Change

Total Sales (in millions)

Total Sales
 
Comparable Store Sales

Fiscal period

2011

2010

2011

2011
 
2010
April (4 weeks) $ 96.0 $ 92.9 3.3% 4.2% -5.4%
March-April (9 weeks) $ 223.1 $ 226.5 -1.5% -0.6% -1.7%
First Quarter (13 weeks) $ 303.5 $ 301.0 0.8% 1.5% -3.8%


While we are pleased to report positive comparable store sales for the first quarter, April sales were below our expectations, said David H. Stovall, Jr., president and chief executive officer. Strong sales in our Florida, Texas and Western stores were offset by weaker results in our Midwest and Northern markets caused by adverse weather. Ladies career, dresses, home and mens furnishings were our strongest categories in April, while ladies casual sportswear, special sizes and accessories posted weaker sales.




The company operated 262 stores at the end of April compared to 267 at the same time last year. No new stores were opened and one store located in Washington, D.C. was closed during the month.