SECAUCUS, N.J., Oct. 8, 2009 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Children's Place Retail Stores, Inc. (Nasdaq:PLCE) today announced net sales of $174.7 million for the five-week period ended October 3, 2009, an increase of 9% compared to sales of $160.7 million for the five-week period ended October 4, 2008. Comparable retail sales, which include online sales, increased 4% in September 2009 on top of a 1% increase for the same period last year. During September 2009, comparable store sales increased 2% in the U.S. and declined 1% in Canada, while online sales increased 54%.

During September 2009, the Company opened one store.

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                               September             Year-to-Date
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                            2009       2008        2009         2008
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 Net Sales:
 - In Millions             $174.7     $160.7     $1,031.0     $1,044.0
 - Change vs. Year Ago      +9%        +2%         -1%          +11%
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 Comparable Retail Sales:
 - Change vs. Year Ago      +4%        +1%         -3%           +6%
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The Company also announced plans to automate portions of its e-commerce fulfillment operations in its distribution center located in Fort Payne, Alabama. The total cost of the implementation is estimated to be $20 million, with approximately one-third of the capital expenditure expected to be incurred during fiscal 2009 and the remaining two-thirds expected to be incurred in the first half of fiscal 2010. The Company anticipates it will finalize the implementation and begin utilizing the automated distribution system during the second quarter of fiscal 2010.

In conjunction with today's September sales release, you are invited to listen to the Company's pre-recorded monthly sales call, which will be available beginning at 7:30 a.m. Eastern Time today through Thursday, October 15, 2009. To access the recording, please visit the Investor Relations section of the Company's website at www.childrensplace.com.

About The Children's Place Retail Stores, Inc.

The Children's Place Retail Stores, Inc. is a leading specialty retailer of children's merchandise. The Company designs, contracts to manufacture and sells high-quality, value-priced merchandise under the proprietary "The Children's Place" brand name.