Limited Brands sees EPS increase

COLUMBUS, Ohio Limited Brands reported that adjusted earnings per share for the first quarter ended May 1, were 25 cents compared with earnings per share of 1 cent for the quarter ended May 2, 2009. First quarter operating income was $185 million compared with operating income of $65.2 million last year, and adjusted net income was $82.9 million compared with net income of $2.6 million last year.

Comparable-store sales for the first quarter increased 10%, and net sales were $1.93 billion compared to $1.72 billion last year. 

The company stated that it expects 2010 second-quarter adjusted earnings per share to be 27 cents to 32 cents compared with adjusted earnings per share of 19 cents per share last year. 

For 2010, the company expects adjusted earnings per share of $1.60 to $1.80.