ABILENE, Kan., Feb. 2, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- Duckwall-ALCO Stores, Inc. (Nasdaq:DUCK) today announced that its sales from continuing operations for the four weeks ended January 29, 2006 (fiscal month of January) increased approximately 9.5% to $27.1 million, compared with $24.8 million in the prior-year month and same-store sales increased 5.8%.
For the thirteen weeks ended January 29, 2006, sales from continuing operations increased 8.3% to $127.2 million from $117.4 million last year, and same-store sales increased 4.5%.
For the fifty-two weeks ended January 29, 2006, sales from continuing operations increased 6.3% to $435.0 million from $409.3 million last year, and same-store sales increased 3.1%.
Bruce Dale, President and CEO, said, "We are pleased with our January and fourth quarter sales performance. It demonstrates that a number of our sales initiatives are being accepted by our customers. We are particularly encouraged by a strong performance in our apparel departments, especially in our new spring fashion items."
About Duckwall-ALCO Stores, Inc.
Duckwall-ALCO Stores, Inc. is a leading regional retailer that specializes in offering a wide variety of products at reasonable prices to the underserved communities of America. Founded in 1901 by A.L. Duckwall as a general merchandising operation in Abilene, Kan., Duckwall-ALCO is known for its convenient locations and for its friendly, personal service. The Company has 251 stores in 21 states across the central United States, operating under two names, ALCO and Duckwall. ALCO discount stores offer a full line of merchandise, while Duckwall variety stores serve smaller communities, offering a smaller selection.
Forward-looking statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements, as referenced in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 ("the Act"). Any forward-looking statements are made by the Company in good faith, pursuant to the safe-harbor provisions of the Act. These forward-looking statements reflect management's current views and projections regarding economic conditions, retail industry environments and Company performance. Factors, which could significantly change results, include but are not limited to: sales performance, expense levels, competitive activity, interest rates, changes in the Company's financial condition and factors affecting the retail category in general. Additional information regarding these and other factors may be included in the Company's quarterly 10-Q filings and other public documents, copies of which are available from the Company on request.