Talbots Inc. today said April sales at stores that have been open at least a year fell 12.2 percent. Boosted by exceptionally strong regular-price selling in the second week of the month, the decline was less than expected.
Total sales for women’s apparel retailer for the four weeks ending May 4 were $130.1 million, down 7 percent from $140.6 million a year earlier.
Total sales for the quarter ended May 4 decreased 2 percent to $391.3 million, from $401.1 million a year earlier. Retail store sales were down slightly at $321.7 million, compared with $323.1 million last year. Same-store sales for the quarter decreased 7.2 percent.
For the second quarter, Talbots said it remains comfortable with the current First Call consensus estimate of 29 cents. The estimates range from 23 cents to 32 cents.
There are five Talbots locations in Rhode Island.
