Wal-mart

US retail giant Walmart has announced its results for the third quarter of the year, with diluted earnings per share from continuing operations up 6.5 per cent to US$1.14, and consolidated net income attributable to Walmart growing 2.8 per cent to US$3.7bn.

Net sales stood at US$114.9bn, an increase of 1.6 per cent on the third quarter of 2012, with total revenue of US$115.7bn, an increase of US$1.9bn, or 1.7 per cent over last year.

'Walmart delivered solid earnings growth that was within our guidance range,' said Mike Duke, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. president and chief executive officer. 'We had strong operating income across our segments, with Walmart US growing almost 6 per cent, Sam's Club increasing more than 9 per cent, and International up 8 per cent on a constant currency basis.

'Our most important priority is growing top line sales, including comp sales,' he added. 'The retail environment, both in stores and online, remains competitive. Walmart has aggressive plans to help our customers enjoy the holiday season, and there is no doubt that we plan to win for our customers and shareholders throughout the holidays.'