Catherines Stores Corporation reports March sales results.

MEMPHIS, Tenn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 10, 1997--Catherines Stores Corporation (NASDAQ:CATH) reported Thursday that its unaudited sales for the five-week period ended April 5, 1997 increased 3.5% to $29.2 million from $28.2 million in 1996.

Sales year to date increased 1.7% to $48.9 million from $48.0 million. Comparable stores' sales increased 1% for the month of March and declined 1.3% year to date. Easter Sunday fell into the March period, giving March one less sales day than last year. If March had been a comparable period the comparable stores' sales would have increased 2.6%. Inventory per store increased slightly.

The Company opened one new store and closed one store during the month. The Company anticipates opening two additional locations during the spring season.

Catherines Stores Corporation is a Memphis based specialty retailer selling large-size women's apparel in 459 stores in 40 states operating under the names Catherine's; PS...Plus Sizes, Plus Savings; Added Dimensions; and The Answer.

CONTACT: Catherines Stores Corporation, Memphis

David C. Forell, 901/363-3900, ext. 1271