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Cato Q1 profit edges up 4%, raises outlook
May 17, 2012

Charlotte, N.C. -- Women’s apparel retailer Cato Corp. said Thursday that first-quarter profit rose 4% to $31.7 million, from $30.5 million last year, prompting the company to raise its full-year profit forecast. Sales inched up 1% to $275.3 million, but same-store sales dipped 2% among its Cato, Cato Fashions, Cato Plus, It's Fashion, It's Fashion Metro and Versona Accessories banners. “Although the level of sales by month varied due to unexpected circumstances including early warm weather and the delay of tax refunds, first quarter sales overall were within our expectations and reflect the continuing difficult economic environment for our

Buckle Q1 net income up 13%
May 17, 2012

Kearney, Neb. -- The Buckle Inc. reported Thursday that profit for the quarter ended April 28 increased 13% to $37.8 million, compared with $33.5 million in the year-ago period, as shoppers spent more in the teen retailer’s stores and online. Sales climbed 10% to $263.8 million, matching Wall Street estimates, and same-store sales rose 7.4%. Online revenues surged 15% in the period.

Home Depot Store Cited by OSHA, $51,000 in Fines Proposed
May 17, 2012

Home Depot faces $51,480 in fines after its store in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. was cited by federal regulators for “repeat and serious” workplace violations. OSHA’s inspection found the required working space around eight electrical equipment panels was used for storage, restricting employees’ access to circuit breakers. Because the company was cited by OSHA in 2010 and 2012 for similar hazards at New Hampshire and New Jersey stores, respectively, OSHA issued a citation with $44,000 in proposed fines for the repeat violation, as well as $7,480 in penalties for two other violations.

Pacific Sunwear narrows loss in Q1
May 17, 2012

Anaheim, Calif. -- Pacific Sunwear of California reported Thursday a loss of $15.6 million, narrowed from a loss of $28.7 million in the year-ago period. Sales edged up to $173.8 million from $171.9 million, and same-store sales increased 1%.

Sears, Bon-Ton Post Mixed Q1 Results
May 17, 2012

Sears Holdings Corp. and The Bon-Ton Stores Inc. on Thursday both posted first-quarter results, with Sears showing a profit as a result of asset disposals and Bon-Ton turning in a loss.Sears...

Gap Q1 profit beats Street
May 17, 2012

San Francisco -- Gap Inc. said Thursday that profit for the quarter ended April 28 was flat compared with the year-ago period, but its results beat Wall Street forecasts and prompted the retailer to raise its outlook for the year. Gap reported a profit of $233 million for the first quarter. Revenue rose 6% to $3.49 billion, beating analysts’ estimated $3.46 billion in revenue, and same-store sales rose 4%. “During the quarter, we improved sales, grew earnings per share, and continued investing in the business to drive performance,” said Glenn Murphy, chairman and CEO of Gap Inc. “We’re pleased

Brooks Brothers Names Matteo Del Vecchio Vice President, Strategy & Corporate Development
May 17, 2012

/PRNewswire/ -- Brooks Brothers Group, Inc. today announced the appointment of Matteo Del Vecchio to the position of Vice President, Strategy and Corporate Development. In this newly created position, Mr. Del Vecchio will be responsible for leading specific business development projects across a variety of areas including finance, technology, wholesale and manufacturing. He will also be responsible for evaluating internal and external strategic growth opportunities. "Matteo brings a wealth of experience to this position," said Diane Ellis, President & COO of Brooks Brothers. "His background in business development will benefit us tremendously as we position the company for significant

Skechers Will Pay $40M to Settle FTC Charges of Deceptive Ads
May 17, 2012

The Federal Trade Commission announced that Skechers USA, Inc. has agreed to pay $40 million to settle charges that it deceived consumers by making unfounded claims that Shape-ups would help people lose weight and strengthen and tone their buttocks, legs and abdominal muscles. Consumers who bought these "toning" shoes will be eligible for refunds either directly from the FTC or through a court-approved class-action lawsuit. The settlement with the FTC is part of a broader agreement also being announced today resolving a multistate investigation which included attorneys general from 44 states and the District of Columbia.