15% decrease

The nation's largest bookseller had a 15 percent drop in profit because of sluggish consumer spending. The retailer projected that sales at established stores would be weaker than expected. Earnings were $15.4 million in the quarter, down from $18.05 million a year earlier. Sales slipped 1.6 percent to $1.22 billion.

Burger King

42% increase

The nation's No. 2 hamburger chain said its profit surged 42 percent, driven by a rise in sales at established locations and a slew of promotions. The company said it earned $51 million in the quarter, up from $36 million a year ago. Revenue rose 9 percent to $646 million.

Gap Inc.

51% increase

The apparel retailer said cost-cutting and tight control on inventory boosted its quarterly profit, even as sales fell. The company said profit rose 51 percent to $229 million from $152 million. Revenue fell 5 percent to $3.5 billion. Sales in stores open at least one year fell 10 percent.

H.J. Heinz Co.

11% increase

The food maker said its profit rose 11 percent, fueled by double- digit sales growth in North America and Europe. The Pittsburgh- based maker of Heinz Ketchup said it earned $229 million compared with a year-ago profit of $205.3 million. Revenue in the quarter rose 14 percent to $2.58 billion.

Hormel Foods

9% decrease

The maker of Spam and Jennie-O Turkey said its profit fell 9 percent as higher meat, fuel and other costs outweighed price increases and hurt margins. The company said it earned $51.9 million compared with a year-ago profit of $57.4 million. Revenue rose 10 percent to $1.68 billion.

- From wire reports

(c) 2008 Virginian - Pilot. Provided by ProQuest LLC. All rights Reserved.