George Weston, Canada’s largest food processor and the parent of Loblaw, the country’s largest retailer, has recorded an increase in third quarter net profits.

For the period ended 9 October, the retailer’s net earnings reached C$184m (US$180.1m) compared to C$86m in the prior-year period.

Operating profit climbed 47.1% to reach C$490m. The figure was positively impacted by productivity improvements, lower input costs and lower legal and restructuring charges.

Sales edged up 1.1% to C$9.88bn.

In the 40-week period, profits dropped to C$351m from C$953m a year earlier, while operating profits jumped nearly 60% to C$1.15bn.

Sales rose 1.3% to C$24.59bn.

For the company’s full earnings statement click here.