L Brands July Comps. Up 3%; Boosts Q2 EPS View - Quick Facts

(RTTNews) - L Brands Inc. (LTD), formerly known as Limited Brands, reported a 3 percent year-over-year growth in July 2013 comparable-store sales, with net sales rising to $678.4 million, from the prior-year period's $649.8 million.

For the the 13 weeks ended August 3, 2013, the firm recorded net sales of $2.52 billion, up 5 percent, compared with $2.4 billion a year ago, with a comparable-store sales growth of 2 percent.

Looking ahead, the company expects second-quarter earnings per share of about $0.60, versus its earlier range of $0.50 - $0.55. On average, 26 analysts polled by Thomson Reuters estimate earnings per share of $0.54 for the second quarter. Analysts' estimates typically exclude one-time items.

In addition, the board declared its regular quarterly dividend of $0.30 per share, payable September 6, 2013, to shareholders of record at the close of business on August 23, 2013.