and ST HD's (TYO:2685) total store sales in February climbed 16% year on year, with same-store sales up 9.9%, according to a Tuesday filing on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

The retailer's number of customers across all stores grew 17% on year, while spending slipped 1%.

Similarly, customer traffic on same stores basis increased 10%, but spending was flat.

During the month under review, winter inventory clearance and spring item sales boosted sales. Sales of denim apparel and travel items, including suitcases and barrel bags, performed particularly well.

The retailer opened three stores and closed nine, bringing its store count to 1,323 as at end of February.