Stein Mart grows same store sales again

Stein Mart says customers responded very positively to its spring assortment, boosting same store sales for the chain up nearly 5%.

The Florida-based company, which is planning an aggressive expansion plan for 2015, says total sales for the quarter increased 7.5%.

"We are very pleased with the response our customers are having to our spring assortment," said Jay Stein, Chief Executive Officer. "Our first quarter 4.8 percent comparable store sales increase continues the trend we saw at the end of last year and is a great way to start the year."

Stein Mart says Florida had the strongest sales in April, while California, Texas and the Gulf States performed lower than the chain. For the first quarter, ladies' apparel posted the strongest sales, led by dresses and ladies' boutique, while accessories were more challenged.

The company operated 270 stores at the end of April this year compared to 263 stores last year.