Urban Outfitters posts 30% 2Q sales increase

PHILADELPHIA Urban Outfitters announced sales for the second quarter of fiscal 2009 ended July 31 of $454.3 million, an increase of 30% over fiscal 2008's second quarter. Comparable-store sales at Anthropologie, Free People and Urban Outfitters rose 7%, 10% and 19%, respectively, for a combined increase of 13%. Direct-to-consumer sales increased 42% and Free People wholesale sales increased 14%.

"I am extremely pleased with our sales performance during the second quarter," said ceo Glen T. Senk. "All of our brands and channels executed exceptionally well, with the Urban brand gaining momentum as they headed into the important back-to-school season. We believe these results are driven by our ability to inspire our customers with unique product and a distinctive shopping experience."