Merchandise inventories were well controlled at $4.3 billion, with planned increases associated with the opening of 25 new stores in the third quarter essentially offset by better merchandise flow.
Cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities for the first nine months were in line with expectations. The Company continues to be on plan for the full year, with capital expenditures projected at approximately $800 million.
During the quarter, the Company completed its existing $750 million common stock repurchase authorization with the repurchase of 3.3 million shares for a total of $220 million.
Senior management will host a live conference call and real-time web cast today, November 9, 2006, beginning at 9:30 a.m. ET. Access to the conference call is open to the press and general public in a listen only mode.
marketing@alchempro.com
