Talbots expects better fourth quarter

HINGHAM, Mass. Talbots announced that it expects stronger-than-anticipated operating results for the fiscal fourth quarter ending Jan. 30.

Based on preliminary results, Talbots said it expects total sales from continuing operations for fourth quarter 2009 to decline approximately 4%, better than its previously announced range of down 6% to 8%, driven by positive full price selling in the quarter. Comparable-store sales for the fourth quarter are expected to decline approximately 7%. Talbots direct marketing sales are expected to increase approximately 11% compared with last year’s fourth quarter, reflecting strong customer demand, better fulfillment and lower return rates.

Talbots is currently scheduled to report fourth quarter and fiscal year 2009 results on April 13.