April Sales Mixed

While March retail sales numbers beat expectations, aided by an early Easter that moved many sales, especially apparel, ahead a month, April’s mixed bag suggests it may be too soon to suggest consumer confidence in on the rebound.

Here’s a review of retailers’ April sales reports:

In the teen market sector, April sales dropped 5 percent at Aeropostale; 7 percent at Abercrombie & Fitch; and 6 percent at American Eagle Outfitters.

Gap Inc.’s net sales were flat while comparable store sales for April 2010 dropped 3 percent. Among its brands, same-store sales were down 6 percent at Gap North America; 2 percent at Banana Republic North America; 1 percent at Old Navy North America; and 5 percent internationally.

Mass merchant Target reported its April sales declined 5.9 percent.
In the department store sector, Dillard’s sales fell 5 percent; Kohl’s dropped 7.7 percent; and J.C. Penney’s were down 3.3 percent.

But the month wasn’t bad for everyone. Limited Brands Inc.’s same-store sales grew 4 percent and the company reported net sales of $584.6 million, compared to $531.2 million last year.

Macy’s reports its April same-store sales rose 1.1 percent; Nordstrom’s same-store sales were up 7.5 percent; TJX reported April sales grew 4 percent; and Saks says its April sales increased 3.2 percent.

Ross Stores Inc.’s April sales improved by 7 percent while comparable store sales grew 3 percent.