LANDOVER, Md. -- Giant Food here said new store openings, promotional programs and a new electronic marketing effort helped lift sales in the third quarter and 36 weeks ended Nov. 2.

he 36 weeks, sales rose 2.7% to $2.67 billion from $2.6 billion in the prior-year period. Net earnings increased 18.4% to $67.8 million from $57.3 million.

Giant said it opened five new food-drug stores, including four Super G stores, in its Northern region during the quarter. Three Super G stores are under construction in Yardley, Norristown and Norriton, Pa., and will open in fiscal 1998.

3RD-QUARTER RESULTS

Qtr Ended 11/2/96 11/4/95

Sales $897 million $870.7 million

Change + 3%

Same-store - 0.5%

Net Income $18.9 million $17.4 million

Change + 8.3%

Inc/Share 32 cents 30 cents

36 Weeks 1996 1995

Sales $2.67 billion $2.6 billion

Change + 2.7%

Net Income $67.8 million $57.3 million

Change + 18.4%

Inc/Share $1.14 97 cents

Giant did not report 36-week same-store sales.