In uncertain industry, Kohl’s posts 6 percent increase in holiday sales

It was a happy holiday season for Kohl's Corp., which reported its total and comparable sales for November and December increased by nearly 7 percent compared to last year.

The retail chain saw growth in “digital demand accelerated significant in the holiday period,” while also experiencing positives sales and stronger foot traffic in stores. Based on stronger than expected holiday sales and expectations for fiscal January, the company now expects its fiscal 2017 diluted earnings per share to be $4.10 to $4.20 versus its previous guidance of $3.72 to $3.92.

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“We are very pleased with our Holiday period sales, which were consistently strong through November and December. All lines of business and all regions reported positive comp sales,” said Kevin Mansell, Kohl’s chairman, chief executive officer and president.

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Kohl's announced in March 2016 that it would shut down 18 stores and lay off more than 1,500 employees. Kohl's has stores in Troy, Springfield, Huber Heights, Beavercreek, Miamisburg, Middletown, Hamilton, Lebanon and West Chester.

The retailer will release its fourth quarter and fiscal 2017 results in March.

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