Saks reports slight Dec. sales increase

NEW YORK Saks today reported a slight sales increase for the month of December, aided by strong performances in the fine jewelry, women's shoes, accessories and handbags, men's accessories, shoes, contemporary apparel, and outerwear.

The company said that owned sales for the month totaled $447.7 million for the five weeks ended Jan. 5, 2008 compared to $444 million for the five weeks ended Dec. 30, 2006, a 0.8% increase. Comparable-store sales increased 0.8% for the five-week period.

Saks reported weakness in women’s modern collections, women’s contemporary sportswear, women’s “gold range” apparel, and Salon Z (women’s large sizes).