Costco, BJ’s and Target beat estimates in July

New York City -- Warehouse club operators Costco and BJ’s Wholesale Club continue to benefit from high fuel prices and bargain-seeking consumers, with both chain reporting solid results. Costco reported a 10% rise in same-store sales In July, beating Wall Street's expectations for an 8.6% increase. The company’s strongest performance was overseas, with international same-stores sales jumping 22%. Its U.S. sales increased 6%. Removing gas price inflation and stronger foreign currencies, same-store sales gained 5% for the month. Costco said that total revenue for the four weeks ended July 31 rose 15% to $6.74 billion. The warehouse club