The Wet Seal, Inc. Announces September Comparable Store Sales Declined 0.3% vs -0.7% Last Year

The Wet Seal, Inc. (Nasdaq: WTSLA) reported net sales and comparable store sales for the five-week period ended October 1, 2011, or fiscal September

Susan McGalla, chief executive officer of The Wet Seal, Inc., commented: “While our overall sales results were below our expectations for the month, we were pleased to generate improved merchandise margins in both divisions versus the prior year. With disciplined and more strategic promotional strategies and inventory management, we continued to grow merchandise margins despite increased product cost pressures.

“At Wet Seal, we saw positive momentum continue through Labor Day weekend, driven by our assortment of back-to-school fashion at a compelling value. Business became more challenging at Wet Seal following the back-to-school peak.

“At Arden B, we experienced a similar trend, where early strength was followed by slower business in the latter part of September, though results improved versus August due to a better planned promotional cadence through the month.”