Birks & Mayors Inc. announced Tuesday that net sales during the 13 weeks ended December 26th were $89.3 million, representing an increase of $1.2 million, or 1%, compared to net sales of $88.1 million during the third quarter of last fiscal year.

The increase in sales reflects $6.2 million of higher sales related to translating the sales of the company’s Canadian operations into U.S. dollars because of the stronger Canadian dollar.

Comparable store sales during this period decreased by 4%, which was comprised of a 9% decline in sales of the U.S. stores partially offset by a 2% increase in sales from the stores in Canada.

For the 39 weeks ended December 26th, net sales were $191.5 million, representing a decrease of $30.1 million, or 14%, compared to net sales of $221.7 million during the corresponding period in the prior year. Comparable store sales during this period decreased by 12%, reflecting a 19% decline in sales in the U.S. and a 5% decline in sales in Canada.

JCK