Bon-Ton sales up in May compared to a year ago

Sales at the York, Pa.,-based retailer with stores in several local malls are still down for the year.

The Bon-Ton Stores Inc. had a positive month of May, according to figures released this morning by the York, Pa.,-based retailer with stores in several local malls.

Sales in stores opened at least a year increased 1.5 percent compared to the same four-week period a year ago, according to a news release. Total sales were up 1.2 percent to $183.1 million, the company reports.

Year-to-date sales are down 0.7 percent at stores opened at least a year and 0.8 percent overall at $823.9 million, compared to $830.9 million a year ago, Bon-Ton reported.

"We are pleased with our May sales performance, as compelling new offerings and refinements in our marketing efforts yielded positive results," President and Chief Executive Officer Brendan Hoffman said. "Our eCommerce business continued to post double-digit sales increases, and we are very encouraged that our aggressive pursuit of traditional product resulted in an improved performance in ladies’ ready-to-wear, particularly moderate sportswear, as customers responded favorably to new receipts.
"Month-end comparable store inventories increased approximately 3 percent over the prior year, reflecting increased investment to support our sales initiatives. We look to drive sustained improved performance as we continue to implement our merchandising and marketing strategies."