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Store Sales Increase at Wal-Mart

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. expects its October "same-store" sales in the U.S. to be up 4.3%, according to a company report. Wal-Mart had previously forecast same-store sales up 2% to 4% for the month.

Wal-Mart said general sales were stronger than food during October in a message posted on its Web site. A higher percentage of candy sales was shifted to the weekend ahead of Halloween, the retailer said. Wal Mart does a banner business of candy and costumes for children at this time of year.

Shares of Wal-Mart closed up 76 cents at $45.50 on Friday. The company recently came out in favor of a raise of the U.S. minimum wage and announced plans to provide cheaper health care to Wal-Mart employees.