Macy’s up, Bon-Ton down in April

Bon-Ton Stores Inc., parent company of Elder-Beerman, said sales at stores open at least a year declined by 5 percent in April, compared with a 1 percent increase for Macy’s Inc. stores during the month.

Bon-Ton said its comparable-store sales, a key measure for retailers, totaled $189.1 million in April, compared with $199.4 million a year ago. The Pennsylvania-based company’s stores include Elder-Beerman, Bon-Ton, Bergner’s, Boston Store, Carson Pirie Scott, Herberger’s and Younkers in 23 states.

But, when all of the first quarter was included, Bon-Ton’s comparable-store sales were up 3 percent from a year ago, the retailer said Thursday, May 6.

Macy’s said its comparable-store sales increased by 1 percent in April, beating the company’s prediction that there would be no increase from a year ago. Based on the better-than-expected performance, Macy’s increased its earnings guidance for the first quarter to earnings of 2 to 4 cents per share, up from the prior projection of a break-even quarter.

Comparable-store sales for Macy’s in the first quarter were up by 5.5 percent. The company’s stores include Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s outlets nationwide, including Macy’s stores at Dayton Mall and the Mall at Fairfield Commons.

Jo-Ann Stores Inc., the fabric and crafts retailer, said its comparable-store sales increased by 4 percent.