GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Spartan Stores here yesterday said same-store sales growth of 4.1%, excluding fuel, and increased distribution sales in its fiscal second quarter helped drive profit gains in the period. Net income rose 21.6% in the period, to $11.07 million, on a sales gain of 4.8%, to $626.8 million. Total retail sales rose 6.3%, to $323.5 million, and retail operating earnings were up 7.8%, to $12.5 million. Distribution sales rose 3.2%, to $303.3 million. Net income for the 24-week first half rose 34.4%, to $21 million, on a sales gain of 8.5%, to $1.2 billion, reflecting the acquisition of the Felpausch stores. The company also said the previously announced transition of Dennis Eidson to chief executive officer had taken effect. Craig Sturken remains executive chairman.

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