How chains in 4 key retail sectors fared in May compared with a year earlier

How stores in 4 key sectors fared in May

Here is how May revenue at stores open at least a year compared with revenue a year earlier for selected retailers in four key sectors: discount, drug and clothing chains and department stores.

This comparison is considered a key indicator of a retailer’s health because it excludes stores that opened or closed during the year.

The International Council of Shopping Center index for revenue at stores open at least a year rose 2.6 percent in May, in line with a reduced growth forecasts. Michael P. Niemira, ICSC’s chief economist, had originally expected a 3.5 percent gain.

That’s compared with a weak May 2009, when the figure fell 4.6 percent. The results are weighted by companies’ total revenue.

Next to each chain’s name is the percentage change it reported for May.

— DEPARTMENT STORES

Bon-Ton Stores Inc., down 1.1 pct

Dillard’s Inc., no change

Fred’s Inc., up 3.5 pct

J.C. Penney Co., down 1.8 pct

Kohl’s Corp., up 3.5 pct

Neiman Marcus Group Inc., up 5.6 pct

Nordstrom Inc., up 3.7 pct

Macy’s Inc., up 1.4 pct

Saks Inc., up 5.8 pct

Stage Stores Inc., down 2.9 pct

— DISCOUNT STORES

BJ’s Wholesale Club Inc., up 6.8 pct (up 3.5 pct, excluding gasoline sales)

Costco Wholesale Corp., up 9 pct (up 5 pct, excluding gasoline and impact of foreign currency exchanges)

Target Corp., up 1.3 pct

— DRUG STORES

Rite Aid Corp., down 1.7 pct

Walgreen Co., down 0.2 pct

— CLOTHING STORES

Abercrombie & Fitch Co., down 3 pct

Aeropostale Inc., up 1 pct

American Eagle Outfitters Inc., down 3 pct

The Buckle Inc., down 5.4 pct

Cato Corp., up 3 pct

Gap Inc., up 1 pct

Hot Topic Inc., down 9 pct

Limited Brands Inc., up 5 pct

Ross Stores Inc., up 5 pct

Stein Mart Inc., down 4.5 pct

TJX Cos., up 4 pct

Wet Seal Inc., down 5.3 pct

Zumiez Inc., up 7.1 pct