Brookstone 1Q loss shrinks

Merrimack-based lifestyle retailer Brookstone has announced its first quarter ended with a net loss of some $19 million — $4.4 million lower than the net loss of $23.4 million reported in the same quarter a year ago.Sales of $80 million were reported in the quarter that eneded April 2, an increase of 14.9 percent more than the $69.7 million in same quarter a year ago.Same-store sales also increased 10.2 percent as compared to the comparable 13-week period last year, said the company.Brookstone is principally owned by three private firms, Osim International, J.W. Childs, and Temasek Holdings, but it files quarterly and annual reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission in accordance with the terms of its publicly held debt. – CINDY KIBBE/NEW HAMPSHIRE BUSINESS REVIEW