Sara Lee Reports 2009 Fiscal Results

Sara Lee Corp. (NYSE: SLE) reported fourth quarter and Fiscal 2009 results in a news release early this week.

The company markets and manufactures many brand-name food, beverage, and meat products, using the finest quality food ingredients.

Sara Lee Corp. is organized into six businesses:

• North American Retail
• North American Fresh Bakery
• North American Foodservice
• International Beverage
• International Bakery
• International Household and Body Care

Here's an quick overview of some important benchmarks for the company's success in Fiscal 2009.

Benchmark	2009	2008	% change	Comments
Net Sales	$12.9 billion	$13.2 billion	- 2.5%	adjusted net sales up 2.7%
Net Income (Per Diluted Share)	$364 million ($0.52)	loss of $79 million (loss of $0.11 per share)	+ 1.9%	adjusted EPS $0.84 from $0.82
Operating Income	$713 million	$260 million	---	adjusted operating income up 1.9%

Note: Detailed fiscal metrics for the corporation and all six divisions are highlighted in the news release.

Brenda C. Barnes, chairman and chief executive officer seems satisfied with the full-year results and her comments reflected the company's achievements despite the tumultuous economy.

"I am pleased to report that we've just completed our second consecutive year of strong overall performance, despite tough economic and competitive headwinds.

"Our 2009 results reflect the significant progress we have made in transforming Sara Lee and focusing the company on core businesses with large and growing brands in important categories."

Earlier this year, Sara Lee discussed strategies for growth and optimization including further development of international markets and cost savings measures. Seems like they are making good on their promises.

Barnes continued by forecasting future success for Sara Lee Corp.

"We've built a solid foundation and will continue to invest in the future. We are confident that we will continue to execute our growth strategy in fiscal 2010 and in the years to come."

Common sense dictates that the food industry must thrive in most economies. Fiscal 2009 data (for many companies) is in agreement.

Sara Lee Corp. is certainly one of those companies. Despite current global economics, the company: remains commited to the brand, delivers shareholder value, and is poised to grow.