US specialty retailer of footwear for young women Bakers Footwear Group, Inc. has reported positive results for the 13 and 39 weeks ended October 29, 2005.

For the third quarter, net sales increased 33.9% to $43.2 million from $32.3 million for the 13 weeks ended October 30, 2004. Comparable store sales increased 21% compared with a 7.6% decrease last year. Operating loss decreased to $1.7 million an operating loss of $4 million in the same period a year ago. Net loss was $1.05 million versus $2.6 million in the third quarter of 2004.

"The third quarter was a period of great improvement for us marked by robust regular priced sales of feminine fashion footwear," stated Peter Edison, chairman and CEO of Bakers Footwear Group.

For the first nine months, net sales increased 25.5%, to $133.4 million from $106.4 million for the 39 weeks ended October 30, 2004. Comparable store sales increased 13.4% compared with a 1.9% increase in the prior year period. Operating income rose by $6.6 million to $3.4 million compared with an operating loss of $3.2 million in the same period a year ago. Net income increased $4.3 million to $2 million compared with a net loss of $2.3 million in the first nine months of 2004.

Bakers Footwear Group is a national, mall-based, specialty retailer of footwear and accessories for young women. The company's merchandise includes private label and national brand dress, casual and sport shoes, boots, sandals and accessories. The company currently operates more than 200 stores nationwide.