Dollar Tree 2Q sales up 9.9%

CHESAPEAKE, Va. Dollar Tree Stores reported total sales for its fiscal second quarter of 2007 were $971.2 million, a 9.9% increase compared to $883.6 million in last year's fiscal second quarter. Comparable-store sales for the quarter increased 4.4%.

"Our sales results reflect continuing increases in average ticket and customer traffic," president and ceo Bob Sasser said. "The company delivered a comparable-store sales increase over 4% for the sixth quarter in a row. Our merchandise was right for the season as our "Cool Summer Savings" program generated excitement by featuring key items for picnic, patriotic holidays, and toys. Store execution continues to improve and we have made a quick and orderly transition to back-to-school and fall product."

Based on the continued strength of comparable-store sales and the related leverage, the company now anticipates diluted earnings per share for the second quarter to be 32 cents to 33 cents versus the previously announced guidance range of 29 cents to 32 cents.