Decreasing net sales at Central Garden & Pet

Central Garden & Pet has reported net sales of $482 million in the third quarter, ended 27 June, a decline of 2 per cent compared to $493 million in the comparable fiscal 2008 period. The company reported operating income of $51.6 million, an increase of 52 per cent compared to $33.9 million in the year ago period. Net interest expense was $5.2 million compared to $9.0 million a year ago. Net income for the quarter was $31.1 million, compared to net income of $15.6 million in the year ago period. Branded products sales were $407 million, a decrease of 3 per cent. Sales of other manufacturers’ products were $76 million, an increase of 2 per cent. Fiscal third quarter net sales for the pet products segment were $215 million, a decline of 10 per cent from $239 million compared to the fiscal 2008 period. Operating income for the pet products segment was $29.8 million, compared to $32.7 million in the year ago period.