Here is some news from Aeropostale...

Aeropostale, Inc. (NYSE: ARO), a mall-based specialty retailer of casual and active apparel for young women and men, today announced that total net sales for the four-week period ended August 1, 2009 increased 13% to $156.8 million, from $138.8 million for the four-week period ended August 2, 2008. The Company's same store sales increased 6% for the month, compared to a same store sales increase of 13% in the year ago period. The Company noted that its results for the month reflect the negative impact from a shift in tax-free shopping periods from July to August in certain markets.

For the second quarter of fiscal 2009, total net sales increased 20% to $453.0 million, from $377.1 million in the year ago period. Same store sales for the second quarter increased 12%, compared to a same store sales increase of 11% last year. Year to date, total net sales have increased 21% to $861.0 million, from $713.5 million in the year ago period. Year to date, same store sales have increased 11%, compared to a same store sales increase of 10% last year.

    The Company noted that its merchandise margins for the month increased over last year, and that its inventories remain well controlled and on plan.

    Second Quarter Guidance:

    Based on the better than expected results for the month, the Company now believes it will achieve net earnings in the range $0.54 to $0.55 per diluted share, compared to its previously issued earnings guidance in the range of $0.45 to $0.47 per share. The revised guidance includes pre-tax charges of approximately $1.0 million, or $0.01 per diluted share, related to the closing of the Jimmy'Z concept.

    The Company achieved net earnings of $0.31 per share in the second quarter last year.

    To hear the Aeropostale prerecorded July sales message, please dial (866) 644-7738 or (585) 267-8033.

    About Aeropostale, Inc.

    Aeropostale, Inc. is a mall-based, specialty retailer of casual apparel and accessories, principally targeting 14 to 17 year-old young women and men through its Aeropostale(R) stores and 7 to 12 year-old kids through its P.S. from Aeropostale(TM) stores. The Company provides customers with a focused selection of high-quality, active-oriented, fashion and fashion basic merchandise at compelling values. Aeropostale(R) maintains control over its proprietary brands by designing, sourcing, marketing and selling all of its own merchandise. Aeropostale(R) products can only be purchased in its Aeropostale stores and online at http://www.aeropostale.com. P.S. from Aeropostale(TM) products can be purchased in P.S. from Aeropostale(TM) stores and online at http://www.ps4u.com. The Company currently operates 885 Aeropostale stores in 49 states and Puerto Rico, 37 Aeropostale stores in Canada and 5 P.S. from Aeropostale stores in 2 states.

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