Fisch

(GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- rue21, inc. (the "Company") , a leading specialty apparel retailer, today announced that Harlan M. Kent has been appointed to join the Company's Board of Directors and will serve on its Compensation Committee. Mr. Kent, age 49, is the current President and Chief Executive Officer of Yankee Candle Company, the leading designer, manufacturer, wholesaler and retailer of premium scented candles in the United States. Mr. Kent has over 25 years experience in consumer products and retail strategy, marketing and brand development. The appointment of Mr. Kent increases the number of Board members to eight and the

Warrendale, Pa. -- Rue21 reported Thursday that profit for the quarter ended April 28 rose 20.6% to $11.6 million, from $9.6 million in the same quarter last year. Net sales increased 18.9% to $205.6 million, from $172.9 million. Same-store sales for the quarter edged up 1.7%. Bob Fisch, president and CEO said the company is staying its small- and mid-market growth course. “Through our real estate expansion we are gaining market share in small and mid-size markets around the country,” he said.

rue21, a specialty apparel retailer, announced the opening of its 700th store. The company has opened 63 stores and is on target to open 110 new stores and convert 35 existing stores to its larger etc! format in fiscal 2011.

(GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- rue21, inc. , a leading specialty apparel retailer, today announced the opening of its 500th etc! store located in Franklin Mills, PA. rue21's etc! format was introduced five years ago to highlight the company's expanded accessories category, and has since been incorporated into all new rue21 stores and remodels. The five prongs of etc! -- footwear, fragrance/beauty, accessories, jewelry, and the tarea(R) brand of intimate apparel and sleepwear -- are merchandised together in approximately 1,000 sq. ft. within rue21 stores and have been important in driving incremental sales. The etc! categories offer customers an ability to