The Bon-Ton Stores, Inc. announced comparable store sales for the month decreased 3.7%. Total sales for the four weeks ended May 3, 2003 decreased 4.5% to $47.5 million versus $49.7 million reported for the same period last year.
For the first quarter of fiscal 2003, total sales decreased 6.2% to $141.1 million from $150.5 million reported for the same period last year. Comparable store sales for the quarter decreased 5.6%.
James H. Baireuther, Vice Chairman and Chief Administrative Officer, commented, “Weak consumer demand due to the sluggish economy and unseasonably cooler weather in the northeast resulted in lower sales for the month of April. While disappointed with our overall sales performance, we had several categories with sale increases for the month: children’s, coats, home, cosmetics and shoes. We remain focused on growing our market share through an aggressive promotional posture while maintaining tight control of our inventory levels and expenses.”
