We believe that the impact of this category shift will moderate in the second quarter, as boots and utility styles are historically less relevant in the summer months. We expect to open a total of 60 Journeys stores in fiscal 2007.
Journeys Kidz registered another excellent quarter with total sales up 30 percent to more than $8 million and same store sales up 10 percent, against a 22 percent comparison last year. We remain on track to open a total of 25 Kidz stores in fiscal 2007.
Our newest concept, Shi by Journeys, performed well during the quarter. We had three Shi by Journeys stores in operation at the end of the quarter and expect to have a total of 12 stores by the end of the year.
Net sales at Hat World increased 14 percent to approximately $71 million and same store sales declined less than 1 percent. Hat World had a 7 percent comparable store sales increase in the same period a year ago.
The Major League Baseball and branded core headwear categories continued strong, but this was somewhat offset by softness in demand for NCAA product. Hat World continued to expand its private label initiatives and roll out its embroidery machines, both of which represent attractive opportunities for incremental sales.
We remain excited about the growth potential of Hat World and expect to open a total of 85 to 90 new stores in fiscal 2007.
Net sales for the Underground Station Group, which includes Jarman, were flat at $40 million and same store sales fell 3 percent in the first quarter. Comparable store sales at Underground Station declined 2 percent, primarily due to weak demand in men's boots and utility footwear.
marketing@alchempro.com
