Home Depot saw comp-store sales increase 5.8% in the first quarter of strong sales and earnings growth.  Home Depot’s Craig Menear, EVP merchandising, shared details and data from a first quarter that saw double-digit comps in certain seasonal product categories.  A long list of products were described as double-digit comp generators, including walk-behind mowers, riding mowers, lawn accessories, soils and mulches. “Warmer than expected weather allowed customers to complete exterior projects and begin spring projects early,” he said, estimating a 300 basis point boost for U.S. comps due to the weather.  “The core of the store continues to perform,” Menear said.  Stores are also seeing recovery of the pro business, which historically account for about 30% of the company’s overall sales.

Source:  retailingtoday.com