Canadian action sport retailer West 49 Inc. has reported improved sales performance for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006, ended January 28, 2006. Sales for the quarter increased 70.7% to $50.7 million from $29.7 million for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2005. The sales growth is the result of the acquisition of the Off the Wall and Quebec banners, as well as the opening of eight West 49 stores during the year.

Total company fourth quarter comparable store sales grew by 5.4%, compared with the same period last year. West 49 banner comparable store sales grew by 6%, following especially strong comparable store sales of 19.8% in the fourth quarter the year before.

For the fiscal year, sales increased 55.3% to $135.1 million from $87 million last year. Fiscal year comparable store sales grew by 7.2% compared with the year before, with West 49 banner comparable store sales growth of 8.3%. During the year, the company opened 15 new stores and acquired 34 stores under four banners. At January 28, 2006, the company operated 107 stores under six banners, compared with 58 under two banners a year earlier.

West 49 Inc. is a multi-banner retailer of apparel, footwear and accessories related to skateboarding, snowboarding, and surfing.