Dollar General reports strong 1Q sales

GOODLETTSVILLE, Tenn. Dollar General reported that first-quarter sales increased 15.7% to $2.78 billion in the 2009 first quarter compared to $2.4 billion in the 2008 first quarter. Same-store sales increased 13.3% for the quarter, on top of a 5.4% increase in the 2008 first quarter.

Net income increased to $83 million in the 2009 quarter compared to $5.9 million in the 2008 quarter.

“We are very pleased that the momentum that began in 2008 has continued to build in 2009, enabling us to report a very strong start to the year, with strong same-store sales growth, gross margin expansion, and SG&A leverage,” said Rick Dreiling, chairman and CEO. “Customers are responding positively to the changes we are making in our stores as well as to our continued commitment to providing convenience and great value. Importantly, our loyal customers are shopping with us more often, and we believe that we are also attracting new customers.”