Big Lots posts slight 2Q sales boost

COLUMBUS, Ohio Big Lots posted second-quarter retail sales for the fiscal quarter ended Aug. 2 of $1.1 billion, an increase of 1.9% compared to $1.08 billion for the second quarter of 2007. Comparable-store sales increased 2.8%.

Comparable-store sales in the second quarter were driven by an increase in the value of the average basket as the company's "raise the ring" strategy continues to deliver positive results. From a merchandising perspective, consumables, seasonal and furniture were the best performing categories.