We enjoyed solid success in the premium department and specialty stores, while the mid-tier channels had slower sales than anticipated as a result of higher pricing. We will continue the advertising campaign featuring Mischa Barton of 'The O.C.' into the fall season as part of our brand building strategy to attract younger customers.
The Stride Rite's Children's Group had a strong six month spring season with sales up 7%, retail sales up 13% and comparable store sales up 4.4%. Sperry Top-Sider sales were up 23% for the six-month period with an increase in men's and women's product sales. Tommy sales, excluding PRO-Keds which is now licensed, were down 8% for the six months primarily due to a decline in men's product sales. International was up 21% for the six month spring season."
Mr. Chamberlain concluded, "We believe our strategies are sound and our products are right. We remain particularly enthusiastic about our pending acquisition of Saucony, which will provide a new platform for growth in the performance athletic segment. As we move into the second half, we are reaffirming our 2005 full-year guidance of 3-5% growth in sales and 5-10% growth in earnings."
The Stride Rite Corporation markets the leading brand of high quality children's shoes in the United States. Other footwear products for children and adults are marketed by the Company under well-known brand names, including Keds, Sperry Top-Sider, Tommy Hilfiger, Grasshoppers andf high quality children's shoes in the United States. Other footwear products for children and adults are marketed by the Company under well-known brand names, including Keds, Sperry Top-Sider, Tommy Hilfiger, Grasshoppers and Munchkin.
marketing@alchempro.com
