Talbots Reports 3Q Loss

Hingham, Mass., Talbots announced Tuesday a net loss of $9.4 million for the third quarter ended Nov. 3. This result compares to a net income of $8.1 million for the same period last year.

The company reported total consolidated sales for the 13-week period were $556 million. By brand, retail store sales were $366 million for Talbots, down from $383 million last year, and $81 million for J. Jill compared to $77 million in the year ago period.

Total company comparable-store sales declined 7.9% for the third quarter. By brand, comparable-store sales decreased 8.2% at Talbots and 6.5% at J. Jill.

Talbots reported that total consolidated company net loss for the 39-week period ended Nov. 3 was $17.5 million, compared to net income of $31.6 million for the same period last year.

Total consolidated company sales were $1.7 billion for the 39 weeks ended Nov. 3. By brand, retail store sales were $1.15 billion for Talbots and $242 million for J. Jill.

Total company comparable-store sales declined 5.4% for the 39-week period. By brand, comparable-store sales for Talbots decreased 5.6% and J. Jill’s comparable-store sales declined 4%.