Foot Locker

Foot Locker Inc. (New York) reported a 16.1 percent increase in sales for the 13-week period ended April 30, 2005. Same-store sales for the retailer’s 2005 first quarter increased 2.6 percent.

“Our first quarter comparable-store sales reflected a mid-single digit increase in our U.S. business, led by a strong increase by our Champs Sports division,” said chairman and ceo Matthew Serra. “Sales in our Foot Locker Europe business declined mid-single digits, reflecting weak consumer confidence and an increased competitive environment in that region. In total, our first quarter comparable-store sales were in line with our previous guidance. We currently expect our 2005 first quarter earnings per share to increase 15-to-20 percent versus the first quarter of 2004.”

Foot Locker operates approximately 4000 specialty athletic retail stores in 18 countries in North America, Europe and Australia, through its Foot Locker, Footaction, Lady Foot Locker, Kids Foot Locker and Champs Sports nameplates.