Big 5 sees first comps decline in 45 quarters

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. Big 5 Sporting Goods today reported net sales of $217.8 million for the fiscal 2007 second quarter, an increase of 2.9% from $211.8 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2006. Same-store sales declined 0.2% for the fiscal 2007 second quarter, representing the company's first quarterly decrease in same-store sales in more than eleven years. The company now expects earnings per diluted share for the fiscal 2007 second quarter to be in the range of 23 cents to 26 cents, compared to previously issued earnings guidance of 25 cents to 33 cents per diluted share.

"We are very proud of our outstanding track record and our positive same-store sales streak, which came to an end after 45 consecutive quarters of growth amid a challenging consumer environment," said Steven Miller, chairman, president and ceo of Big 5. "While we are certainly taking a hard look at our operation for ways in which we might be able to improve both our top and bottom line in the current environment, we remain confident in the consistency and effectiveness of our overall business model."