(CHARLOTTE) -- The Cato Corp. reported September sales of $70.7 million.  This represents a 2 percent decrease from sales of $71.9 million during the similar period of 2010. September same-store sales for the Charlotte-based discount women's apparel retailer were down 3 percent from the prior year.

"September same-store sales were in line with our recent trend and reflect the very challenging retail apparel environment," said John Cato, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer.  "Although September sales results were below our original estimate, we continue to expect third quarter earnings per diluted share will be at the low end of the range of $.18 to $.21 versus $.20 last year, as restated."