Wal-Mart Reports Rise in Same-Store Sales

Wal-Mart Stores Inc., the world’s largest retailer, said sales at stores open at least a year rose last week and maintained its forecast for a January gain of 2% to 4%.

Sales of items such as bedding, men’s clothing, outerwear, electronics and food rose in the week ended Jan. 17, Wal-Mart said. The discount retailer opened seven neighborhood-market stores in the week.

Wal-Mart’s sales were below or at the low end of its estimates in five of the last six months.