Operating earnings at the Brown Shoe Co.-owned chainof 1,063 doors rose 59% to $19.0 million from $11.3 million for the periodended Aug. 4. Same store sales were 3.6% higher as total sales improved 8.0% to$316.1 million from $292.7 million in the quarter.

Meanwhile, BWS confirms its plans to consolidate itsdirect-to-consumer operations and outlines FY and Q3 guidance. Brown Shoe isclosing its Los Angeles office and relocating its Shoes.com business to St.Louis with incurred costs for the change to be taken in Q3. After-taximplementation costs for the shift will be $11 million in FY07 versus a $14 millionprior estimate with after-tax ... Log in to view full article.