INDIANAPOLIS -- Marsh Supermarkets here said last week sales and earnings were up for the first quarter ended June 24.

strength of our marketing program," said Don E. Marsh, chairman and chief executive officer.

The company said sales from retail rose $27 million during the quarter and sales from wholesale operations rose $15 million. Net income was up 6% to $3.5 million, and operating income jumped 11.7% to $11 million.

During the quarter Marsh acquired Ross Supermarkets, Muncie, Ind., a five-store chain, and Primo Banquet Catering & Conference Centers here, a mid-level caterer operating three venues locally.

In addition the company opened two units of LoBill Foods; two Village Pantry convenience stores; and its first fuel kiosk on a store's parking lot.