Kroger reports 2Q earnings growth

CINCINNATI Kroger reported total sales of $18.1 billion for the second quarter ended Aug. 16, an increase of 11.9% over the same period last year. Identical-supermarket sales increased 9.7% with fuel and 4.7% without fuel compared with the same quarter last year.

Net earnings in the second quarter totaled $276.5 million, or 42 cents per diluted share. Net earnings in the same period last year were $267.3 million, or 38 cents per diluted share.

Based on Kroger's year-to-date results and management's outlook for the remainder of the fiscal year, the company raised the low end of its range for annual identical sales guidance to 4.5%. Kroger now expects identical sales growth of 4.5% to 5.5%, excluding fuel, for fiscal 2008.

The company confirmed its fiscal 2008 earnings guidance of $1.85 to $1.90 per diluted share. This range reflects 9% to 12% growth over fiscal 2007 earnings of $1.69 per diluted share. Kroger expects that its full-year earnings per share growth will be driven by a combination of strong identical sales, a flat to slightly improved operating margin, excluding fuel, and fewer shares outstanding. Kroger's dividend yield of more than 1% further enhances shareholder return.