Columbus, OH — DSW Inc., a leading branded footwear and accessories retailer, plans to accelerate new store openings in 2012 to between 35 and 40 new stores, which is ahead of its long term goal of 15 to 20 new stores per year. The acceleration of its new store opening plan reflects the strong pipeline of real estate opportunities that have become available.

"Based on strong November and December sales results, we expect to exceed our previous guidance," says Mike MacDonald, president and CEO of DSW Inc. "We are also pleased to announce that we will be opening more new stores in 2012 than we previously planned, the majority of which will occur in the second half of 2012. The expansion of our footprint into new and existing markets is a key growth initiative for us as we further solidify our position as a destination for great brands, fashion and value in the footwear industry."

As of January 9, 2012, DSW operated 326 stores in 40 states. For more information, visit www.dswinc.com.