Inventory declined 1% as of May 5, 2007 on both total and comparable store comparisons to April 29, 2006.
Advertising, Selling, Administrative and General Expenses: Advertising, selling, administrative and general (“S G & A”) expenses were $499.4 million and $494.6 million during the 13 weeks ended May 5, 2007 and April 29, 2006, respectively. Increases in payroll and services purchased were partially offset by decreased advertising expenses resulting in a net increase in S G & A expenses of $4.8 million for the period.
Interest and Debt Expense: Net interest and debt expense declined $2.9 million for the 13 weeks ended May 5, 2007 compared to the 13 weeks ended April 29, 2006 as a result of lower debt levels. Interest and debt expense was $20.7 million and $23.6 million during the 13 weeks ended May 5, 2007 and April 29, 2006, respectively.
As of May 5, 2007, letters of credit totaling $72.3 million were outstanding under the Company's $1.2 billion revolving credit facility. During the 13 weeks ended May 5, 2007, the Company amended and extended its revolving credit facility an additional year to expire on December 12, 2012.