Kroger sales, earnings up

CINCINNATI The Kroger Co. today reported total sales increased 6.7% to $20.7 billion for the first quarter ended May 26. Identical-supermarket sales increased 6% with fuel and 5.2% without fuel.

Net earnings in the first quarter totaled $336.6 million, or 47 cents per diluted share. Net earnings in the same period last year were $306.4 million, or 42 cents per diluted share.

The company continues to expect earnings of $1.60 to $1.65 per diluted share for fiscal 2007.