Limited Brands 2Q earnings rise

COLUMBUS, Ohio Limited Brands today reported earnings per share for the second quarter ended Aug. 4 were 67 cents compared to 28 cents last year. Second quarter operating income was $318.9 million compared to $196.8 million last year, and net income was $264.4 million compared to $113.1 million last year.

The company reported a comparable-store sales increase of 2% for the 13 weeks ended Aug. 4, compared to the 13 weeks ended Aug. 5, 2006. Net sales for the 13 weeks ended Aug. 4 were $2.62 billion compared to net sales of $2.45 billion for the 13 weeks ended July 29, 2006.

The company stated that it estimates earnings per share of 4 cents and $1.18 for the third and fourth quarters, respectively.