The apparel retailer reported on Wednesday that its third-quarter earnings jumped 15.3% as increased sales offset higher markdown rates. For the period ending Nov. 3, abercrombie (nyse: ANF - news - people ) earned $117.6 million, or $1.29 per share, up from $102.0 million, or $1.11 per share in the third quarter of 2006.
Total sales for the period climbed to $973.9 million, up 12.8% from $863.4 million in the similar period a year prior. Same-store sales for the quarter rose 1%, which includes sales at Hollister and RUEHL brands. Same-store sales at hollister clothing stores grew 3%.
The New Albany, Ohio-based company beat the profit predictions of analyst polled by Thomson Financial, who forecast $1.28 per share. However, abercrombie outlet fell short of the Street's sales estimate of $985.3 million.
