Zebra Technologies sees 4.6 percent 3Q sales increase

Zebra Technologies Corp. of Lincolnshire said record sales in North America helped push third quarter 2013 sales up 4.6 percent over the same period last year.

The maker of thermal and bar code labels and devices said sales for the quarter were $263.5 million, up from $252 million for the same quarter in 20112. The company said sales were strong in all global markets, and primarily from the sale of supplies, aftermarket parts and services.

The gross profit margin of 48.8 period for the period%, compared to 50.4 percent for 2012. The company said the drop reflects changes in product mix and higher costs for freight-in.

“A steady run-rate business through the quarter complemented an improving pipeline for large enterprise deals, as we continued to extend Zebra’s industry leadership,” said Anders Gustafsson, Zebra’s chief executive officer. “Favorable trends with customers in manufacturing, retail and health care, are resulting from our success in developing strong channels and securing tighter engagements with strategic customers.”

Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations were a record 76 cents, including exit, restructuring and acquisition costs that reduced earnings by a cent, the company said.

Operating expenses decreased by 7.2 percent, principally from a goodwill impairment charge of $9,1 million in 2012, the company said. Operating expenses before the impairment charge increased 3.5 percent from higher compensation costs and outside professional services, as well as increased amortization and exit and restructuring costs.

The company anticipated fourth quarter net sales to range between $263 million and $273 million, with diluted earnings per share are expected within a range of 72 cents and 82 cents.