Ann Taylor

Ann Taylor Stores Corp. (New York) reported an 11.6 percent increase in total net sales for the five-week period ended Dec. 31, 2005. By division, net sales were up 3.9 percent for Ann Taylor and up 19.8 percent for Ann Taylor Loft.

Comparable store sales for the period increased 1.5 percent — up 2.3 percent for Ann Taylor and up 1.6 percent for Ann Taylor Loft.

“During December, both divisions experienced positive comparable store sales in all regions despite mid to high single-digit declines in traffic,” said president and ceo Kay Krill. “At Ann Taylor, given the strong momentum we experienced in November, sales were somewhat lower than expected. However, two categories that were particularly well received were sweaters and special occasion. Loft performed in line with our expectations for the month, highlighted by strength in sweaters, separates, dresses and special occasion offerings. Based on our December and year-to-date results, we remain comfortable with our previous guidance of earnings per diluted share of $1.17, though we continue to carefully monitor the highly promotional retail environment.”

During the month, the company opened one Loft store and one Ann Taylor factory store.