1.   In making our business plans, we tried to prepare for any contingency that might hurt sales.

2.   Also hurting sales was the continuing defection of consumers to department and discount stores, which offered comparable clothing at lower prices.

3.   Also, a tough European economy has meant a cutback in consumer spending, which has hurt sales.

4.   Also, a tough European economy has meant a cutback in spending, which has hurt sales.

5.   Also, the late arrival of spring in some parts of the country hurt sales.

6.   American companies are unwilling to speculate on how possible future sanctions will hurt their sales in China.

7.   Altron Inc. said it expects to report fiscal second-quarter earnings below expectations because of lagging demand and delays in getting certain materials, which hurt sales.

8.   Americans are eating out more than ever before, hurting sales of groceries and consumer goods products in general.

9.   Analysts said the shift in its sales promotion strategy hurt sales, particularly Ore-Ida frozen potatoes sold to retailers.

10.   An August story in Consumer Reports hurt sales of the Trooper in the U.S., Isuzu said.