US food and consumer goods giant Sara Lee has reported lower quarterly earnings, hurt by weak sales of some apparel products.


The company reported net income of US$312m, or 39 cents a share, for the second quarter to 27 December, compared to $348m, or 42 cents a share, a year earlier.


Net sales for the second quarter were $5.0bn, up 5% compared to $4.8bn in the prior year’s quarter.


The company said that during the second quarter sales benefited from favourable foreign currency exchange rates, particularly the strong euro, and growth in Sara Lee’s meats, beverage and household products units.


“In the second quarter, Sara Lee delivered sales growth and we achieved our earnings expectations while continuing to generate very strong cash flow,” said CEO C. Steven McMillan.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Sara Lee’s meats business posted an 11% rise in net sales for the quarter, driven by higher net average selling prices in connection with increased raw material costs, favourable product mix and the impact of the strong euro.


In the company’s bakery business net sales for the quarter increased 1% as strong sales for Sara Lee fresh breads and Sara Lee frozen retail baked goods, higher sales in the Spanish fresh bread division and favourable currency trends more than offset softness in the US regional fresh bread business and lower bakery foodservice sales.