The Sales of Pier 1 Imports Incraesed by 8.3% in The Quarter Ended Aug. 25

FORT WORTH,Texas—Retailer Pier 1 Imports said it recorded an 8.3%increase in sales in the quarter ended Aug.25,and said it expects to report earnings of 24 cents per share.

In a preliminary financial report issued Thursday morning,the company said sales in its second fiscal quarter were approximately$368 million,up from$340 million in the same quarter last year.

The projected earnings of 24 cents per share are 10 cents above the retailer's earnings in the same quarter last year.

Comparable-store sales were up 6.7%in the quarter and up 7%in the first six months of the fiscal year.

Total sales for the first six months were approximately$729 million,up from$674 million in the first half of the previous fiscal year.

"We are very pleased with our profitable sales growth this quarter,which reflects strong execution across all aspects of the organization,"said Alex Smith,president and CEO."Our stores have transitioned from summer to fall and customers have responded favorably to our new assortments."

Pier 1 said it twill release complete quarterly financial results on Sept.13.