Chiquita Brands International has reported net sales of $1 billion (£504 million) for the second quarter of 2008, up six per cent year on year.

The company reported income of $59m, compared to $5m in the year-earlier period.

Including the results of discontinued operations, the company reported income of $62m. The 2008 quarter includes other income, net of tax, of $6m, from the resolution of a claim related to a non-income tax refund, and the 2007 quarter included a charge of $3m, related to the settlement of US antitrust litigation.

Fernando Aguirre, chairman and chief executive officer, said: “I am very pleased with our strong second quarter results, which mark our best quarterly performance in three years.

“Our ability to deliver year-on-year improvements, despite unprecedented cost increases, is a testament to the strength of our business, the diversity of our product portfolio, and our strategy to drive profitable growth. We are particularly satisfied that our pricing discipline and focus on profitability has improved the performance and momentum of our banana segment for the fourth consecutive quarter. We are disappointed, however, with the current performance of our salad operations, and we are focused on executing plans to improve our salad margins over time.

“While quarter-to-quarter volatility is typical due to the seasonality of our industry, we continue to expect to achieve significantly better operating results for the full year. We remain focused on aggressively improving profitability, and prudently investing in the launch of innovative products to become the global leader in healthy, fresh foods,” he adds.

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