Weis Markets' year-end sales down slightly by 0.3%

SUNBURY, Pa. — Weis Markets on Tuesday evening posted $686.4 million in fourth-quarter sales for the 13-week period ended Dec. 28, 2013, representing a decline of 1.1% as compared to the year-ago period. Comparable store sales for the same period were down 3.5%. In 2013, the company's sales totaled $2.7 billion, down 0.3% compared to 2012. Comparable store sales for the 52-week period ending Dec. 28 declined 2.6%.

The company's fourth quarter results were impacted by a decline in food stamp/SNAP spending in its stores and a shortened holiday season, which impacted sales in key center store categories, the Pennsylvania grocer stated. Its results were affected by fuel price deflation, which resulted in lower retail gas sales. Deli sales were also lower due to manufacturer recalls.

Weis' year-to-date results were impacted by the trends affecting its fourth quarter results: stagnant sales performance in key center store categories, lower comparable store gas sales due to significant fuel price deflation and a decline in SNAP sales, all of which accelerated in the fourth quarter.