Abilene ? Bargain retailer Duckwall-ALCO Stores Inc. said Thursday that revenue at stores open at least a year rose 3.1 percent in February, excluding fuel.

This figure is a key indicator of a retailer’s health because it excludes revenue from stores opened or closed during the year from the comparison.

President and CEO Rich Wilson said in a statement that Duckwall-ALCO is benefiting from a better product selection and the integration of “Best Choice” and “Always Save” private label brands.

The Abilene, Kan. company, which runs 214 ALCO stores in 23 states, reported total revenue for the four weeks ended Feb. 27 rose 5.5 percent to $35.5 million.

Duckwall-ALCO stock added 5 cents to $13.50 in afternoon trading.