Wal-Mart reports solid February sales, while apparel stores report weak sales Eds: APNewsNow.

NEW YORK (AP) Wal-Mart Stores Inc. says that grocery, electronics and health items helped it post solid February sales that exceeded Wall Street expectations.

The world's largest retailer's results announced Thursday came despite an overall weak sales trend that has continued into February and shows no sign of improvement.

Limited Brands Inc. and Wet Seal Inc. both say that February sales fell as consumers, facing high food and Gas Prices, focus on necessities.

Wal-Mart says that sales at stores open at least a year rose 2.6 percent. Analysts polled by Thomson Financial predicted a gain of 1.1 percent.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 03-06-08 0701CST | save this article / add to your favorites list