J. Jill Acquisition Paces Talbots Loss

The Talbots Inc. posted a net loss of $3.9 million for the second quarter, thanks mostly to costs associated with the acquisition of J. Jill last winter. This compares to net income of $18.8 million during the prior-year quarter.

The direct marketer and retailer reported sales of $571 million for the quarter ended July 29, a gain over $449.6 million for the same period last year. Sales from J. Jill accounted for about 20% of this total.

The Hingham, MA firm posted catalog and Internet sales of $95 million for the quarter.