Ross 2011 Annual Report Download - page 7

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5
All of this gives us the confidence to continue
to target, over the long term, average annual
earnings per share growth of 10% to 15%. The
formula for achieving this is a combination of unit
growth, annual increases in same store sales,
and ongoing reductions in shares from our stock
repurchase program.
Social Responsibility at Ross Stores
Over the past 30 years, we have grown from
a small retail chain to more than 1,100 stores
today. Along the way, we have maintained an
unwavering commitment to creating value with
a focus on excellence, ethics, and integrity in
all that we do.
This extends far beyond our mission of offering
customers the best name brand bargains
possible. It also means creating value by
enhancing the lives of our almost 54,000
associates with training and development
programs, and by supporting the communities
where we operate through local hiring and
philanthropic efforts. In addition, we continually
look for ways to operate our Company more
efficiently to minimize our impact on the
environment. Examples include initiatives we
have implemented in our stores and distribution
centers to use less energy and reduce waste.
During 2012, we will be adding information to our
Company website about our social responsibility
programs and we look forward to sharing our
progress with you.
In closing, we extend our sincere appreciation
to all of our customers, business partners, and
stockholders for their continued support. We
especially want to acknowledge and thank our
valued associates throughout the Company who
remain the primary drivers of our past, present,
and future success.
Sincerely,
Michael Balmuth
Vice Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer
Norman A. Ferber
Chairman of the Board