Hart Stores celebrates their 50th anniversary

    
    SYMBOL: HIS (TSX)
    www.hartstores.com
    

LAVAL, QC, Aug. 11 /CNW Telbec/ - Hart Stores Inc., an operator of mid-sized department stores (HIS:TSX), announced today that the Company is celebrating 50 years in business since the opening of its first store on August 11th, 1960.

The Company was founded by Harry Hart who opened the first store located in a neighbourhood shopping centre in Rosemère, Québec. Mr. Hart today serves as Executive Chairman of the Company and is still involved in the operations of the business.

Over the past 50 years, Hart Stores has become an important member of the Canadian retail community. Under the leadership of President and CEO Mr. Michael Hart, Hart Stores has grown to become a vibrant chain of 90 stores, yet the Company remains true to its roots and its loyal and valued customers.

"We are proud to celebrate our 50th Anniversary with our customers, business partners and employees and would like to take the opportunity to thank them for making our success possible," said Michael Hart. "We continue to identify new locations in select markets and will be opening two new locations this fall, one in Ste-Foy, Québec and a second in Marystown, Newfoundland. The addition of these two new locations will bring the total number of Hart Stores to 92."

About Hart Stores Inc.:

Hart Stores, a public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (HIS:TSX) is a Canadian chain of value oriented department stores that provides convenient family shopping, located in secondary and tertiary markets in Ontario, Québec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador.

Hart Stores Inc. operates a network of 90 mid-sized department stores under the Hart, Bargain Giant and Géant des Aubaines banners. The stores are located in secondary and tertiary markets throughout Eastern Canada where the Company has established a dominant position in many of the communities that it serves. The stores offer an extensive and differentiated selection of national and exclusive fashion apparel brands as well as family footwear, home furnishings, electronics, appliances, giftware, toys, and seasonal goods.

For further information: Mr. Jacques Plante, CA, Vice-President Finance and Chief Financial Officer, Hart Stores Inc., [phone], [email protected]