Kohl’s 3Q Profits Rise

Menomonee Falls, Wis., Kohl’s Corp. said its profit increased 17% in the third quarter, ended Oct. 30, leaving it "well-positioned" for the holiday season. The chain reported net income of $143.8 million, or 42? a share, compared to $121.2 million, or 35? a share, for the same period last year. Sales rose 15% to $2.74 billion from $2.39 billion. Same-store sales rose 1.2%.

"We believe we are well-positioned for the holiday season in terms of content and level of inventory, our in-store shopping environment and our marketing and advertising calendar," said Larry Montgomery, Kohl’s chairman and CEO.

In other news, Kohl’s announced that a new maternity apparel collection, Oh Baby!, will debut in its stores in February 2005. Maternity apparel manufacturer and retailer Mothers Work created the collection, which will be available only at Kohl’s.