Defender’s February same store sales up 38.7 percent

WATERFORD, Conn. - Defender Industries Inc. saw a 38.7-percent increase in February same store sales over the same period a year ago, pushing same store sales for the first two months of 2004 up 26.1 percent, the company said in a statement yesterday.

"We're excited by the strong start this year, 2003 was an excellent year for Defender with double-digit sales increases over 2002, and we planned and prepared for significant sales increases in 2004," Al Knupp, Defender's executive director, said. "We're gearing up for what's looking like a great year for the marine industry and especially for Defender."

Defender Vice President Stephen Lance said inflatable boats and outboard motors posted a two-month gain of 86 percent for January and February to lead the marine outfitter and supplier's product categories.

"Sales dollars, units & average values are all up significantly over this time last year," Lance said. "The biggest increases are coming from new customers."

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