Gymboree profit rises 12% on lower expenses

San Francisco Children's apparel retailer Gymboree Corp. said late Wednesday its fiscal third-quarter profit rose 12% as expense cuts helped boost its bottom line.

The chain reported net income for the period ended Oct. 31 of $34.8 million, up from a profit of $30.9 million in the same period a year ago.

Total net sales rose nearly 2% to $269.1 from $264.1 million. Same-store sales fell 4% -- a result that Gymboree had announced on Nov. 5.

Gymboree operates 951 stores, including Gymboree and Gymboree Outlet stores, as well Janie and Jack shops and Crazy 8 stores.