WESTERN BEEF POSTS VOLUME, EARNINGS RISE

RIDGEWOOD, N.Y. -- Western Beef here reported that same-store sales were virtually flat but a store expansion program helped boost sales and earnings for the second quarter and first half ended June 28.

he quarter and 16.3% to $163.5 million from $140.6 million for the half. Same-store sales fell 1% for the quarter and were flat for the six-month period.

This fall, Western Beef plans to open a store in Roosevelt, N.Y., plus another metro New York unit later this year, reported Peter Castellana Jr., chief executive officer of the 18-unit chain.

2ND-QUARTER RESULTS

Qtr Ended 6/28/96 6/30/95

Sales $84.2 million $73.1 million

Change 15.2%

Same-store -- 1%

Net Income $1.5 million $1.2 million

Change 31.7%

Inc/Share 28 cents 21 cents

26 Weeks 1996 1995

Sales $163.5 million $140.6 million

Change 16.3%

Same-store 0%

Net Income $2.8 million $2 million

Change 42.6%

Inc/Share 51 cents36 cents