Discounters show strength in February

NEW YORK — In a month that was solid overall, the discount sector showed its muscle, turning in a strong February same-store sales performance nearly across the board. After suggesting last week that sales had accelerated and returned to a pre-holiday pace, Target reported Thursday that same-store sales for the month rose 7%, beating Wall Street’s expected 5.2%. Total sales during the period rose 8% to $5.13 billion, boosted by strength in the food, healthcare and beauty categories. Accessories and apparel performed above average as well. Meanwhile, TJX saw same-store sales surge 9%, beating the 7% gain expected by