This operational thrust worked exceedingly well (at least for The TJX Companies, Inc. (NYSE: TJX ) and Ross) during the economic volatility of the past five years and should continue in earnest as many consumers remain cash strapped and the housing market continues its recovery, meaning value-based home goods are at a premium. Indeed, I've long marveled at Ross Stores' operational prowess that includes continuous annual growth in key metrics such as sales and gross and operating margins. Through December 31 Ross Stores, Inc. (NASDAQ: ROST ) delivered a 10.2% five-year CAGR in sales– sales were $9.72 billion in 2012 and $5.98 billion in 2007–and gross and operating margins have expanded every year over the same period. Stein Mart, Inc. (NASDAQ: SMRT ) recently emerged from a lackluster early 2012 by announcing January overall and same-store sales growth of 31.3% and 4.6%, respectively, and comparative 4Q gains of 11.3% and 6%.