(CHARLOTTE) -- The Cato Corporation reported fourth quarter net income $7.3 million, or $0.25 per diluted share.  This compared to net income of $3.9 million or $0.13 per diluted share for for the same period in 2009.

The Charlotte-based discount women's apparel retailer also reported full year 2009 net income of $45.8 million or $1.55 per diluted share.  This compared to $33.6 million or $1.14 per diluted share for 2008.

"Cato again delivered strong results in a difficult economic environment," said John Cato, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer.  "We continue to manage our inventory and tightly control expenses while offering great fashion and value to our customers."