34408--10/26/2010--FAMILY_DOLLAR_STORES

related topics

{operation, natural, condition}

{financial, litigation, operation}

{customer, product, revenue}

{cost, regulation, environmental}

{cost, contract, operation}

{loan, real, estate}

{condition, economic, financial}

{system, service, information}

{debt, indebtedness, cash}

{regulation, change, law}

{personnel, key, retain}

{capital, credit, financial}

{cost, operation, labor}

{operation, international, foreign}

{acquisition, growth, future}

General economic conditions could impact our business adversely in various respects. Our profitability is vulnerable to cost increases, inflation and energy prices. Our growth is dependent upon our ability to increase sales in existing stores and the success of our new store-opening program, our store renovation program and other operating and infrastructure initiatives. We operate in a highly competitive environment and, as a result, we may not be able to compete effectively or maintain or increase our sales, market share or margins, particularly if the prolonged global economic conditions intensify. We depend heavily on technology systems that support all aspects of our operations; the failure of existing or new technology to provide anticipated benefits could affect our results of operations adversely. If we are unable to secure our customers confidential and credit card information, or other private data relating to our employees or the Company, we could be subject to negative publicity, costly government enforcement actions, or private litigation, which could damage our business reputation and adversely affect our profitability. New accounting guidance or changes in the interpretation or application of existing accounting guidance could affect our financial performance adversely. Changes in state or federal legislation or regulations, including the effects of legislation and regulations on wage levels, employee rights, health care, social welfare and entitlement programs could increase our cost of doing business. Product safety concerns and the effects of legislation and regulations on product safety and quality could affect our sales and results of operations adversely. Any disruption in our ability to select, obtain and market merchandise attractive to customers at prices that allow us to profitably sell such merchandise could impact our business negatively. Operational difficulties, including those associated with our ability to develop and operate our stores and distribution facilities, could impact our business adversely. We rely on third-party shippers and carriers whose operations are outside our control, and any failure by them to deliver products in a timely manner may damage our reputation and could cause us to lose customers. Adverse impacts associated with legal proceedings and claims could affect our business negatively. Inability to attract and retain employees could affect our business. Our business is slightly seasonal, and adverse events during the holiday season could impact our operating results negatively. We are exposed to the risk of natural disasters, unusual weather, pandemic outbreaks, war and terrorism that could disrupt business and result in lower sales, increased operating costs and capital expenditures. Failure to comply with our debt covenants could affect our capital resources, financial condition and liquidity adversely. Our ability to obtain additional financing on favorable terms, if needed, could be adversely affected by volatility in the capital markets. Funds associated with auction rate securities may not be liquid or readily available.

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34408--10/26/2010--FAMILY_DOLLAR_STORES_INC