MSLO merch division posts sucessful fourth quarter

NEW YORK Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia reported that revenues from its merchandising business were $25.7 million for the fourth quarter of 2009, as compared with $13.9 million in the prior year's fourth quarter. Operating income was $24.6 million for the fourth quarter of 2009, compared with $9.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2008.

Addressing merchandising performance, Robin Marino, president and CEO merchandising, stated, "Our merchandising business had a strong quarter and a solid year with notably positive year-over-year retail sales of the Martha Stewart Collection at Macy's and Martha Stewart Crafts at Michaels. We're excited about our relationship with The Home Depot, where our Martha Stewart Living line of outdoor furniture and our Martha Stewart Clean line began rolling out in stores in January. We're also looking forward to the launch of our paint program at The Home Depot next month followed by the introduction of products in additional categories. With these businesses, along with our forthcoming Martha Stewart Pets line at PetSmart, we believe we are further strengthening our position in key categories where we have strong brand equity and see potential for growth."