Wal-Mart monthly sales up 9.3%

BENTONVILLE, Ark. Wal-Mart Stores Inc. reported total company sales of $28.22 billion for the 4 weeks ended Aug. 31, compared with total company sales of $25.82 billion for the 4 weeks ended Sept. 1, 2006, an increase of 9.3%. Comparable-store sales (including fuel sales) increased 3% for the four-week period ended Aug. 31, compared with an increase of 2.7% for the same period last year.

Total company sales for the 30-week period ended Aug. 31 were $207.5 billion, and increase of 8.5% from $191.2 billion last year. Comparable-store sales for this period (including fuel sales) rose 1.5%, compared with a 2.8% increase last year.

                                According to the company, sales at Wal-Mart Stores were driven by strong performances in the back-to-school categories, particularly electronics, school supplies and children's apparel.                            

Sam's Club's sales for the four-week period were driven by increases in average ticket with both business and Advantage members. Sales among small business members continued to be strongest. Similar to the prior four-week period, sales in electronics, fresh food and grocery were strengths. Hotter weather positively impacted sales of some seasonal items.

The company expects the comparable-store sales of its U.S. operations for the September five-week reporting period to be between 1% and 3%, said Tom Schoewe, evpt and cfo.