Sara Lee Corp. Reports 8 Percent Net Sales Gain In Fourth Quarter

Adjusted operating segment income was $13 million lower than the prior year while reported operating segment income declined $10 million. In Spain, further price reductions were required to maintain market share, which led to additional short-term margin pressure. Restructuring activities to transform the company’s sales force to independent operators are progressing as planned.

In the fourth quarter corporate expenses, excluding significant items, were $33 million lower than the prior-year period. For the full year, corporate expenses, excluding significant items, declined $94 million primarily attributable to the impact of headcount reductions, lower employee benefits costs, the sale of the company plane and a reduction in franchise taxes.