Big Lots Q4 same-store sales up 5.1%

Columbus, Ohio Big Lots said Thursday same-store sales rose 5.1% in its fourth quarter, exceeding the company's earlier forecast. The company said revenue increased 6.9%, to $1.45 billion.

For the full year, Big Lots said revenue rose 1.5% to $4.67 billion from $4.6 billion. Same-store sales edged up 0.7%.

The company said sales were especially strong over the last three weeks largely because of advertising. Better weather also helped, the company said.

Products for the home and also furniture sales rose close to 10%. Consumable products, seasonal items, and toys grew in the low- to mid-single digits.