Profits swing upward at Big B. (Big B Inc., drugstore chain)

Sales up 5% in third quarter

Profits swing upward at Big B

BESSEMER, Ala.--With its recovery still in flight, Big B scored a $1.35 million swing in profitability during its fiscal third quarter, which ended October 26.

The Southeastern chain recorded net earnings of $393,000 over the 12 weeks, versus a $959,000 loss last year. Sales increased by 5% to $108.4 million from $103.2 million a year ago, when the chain was operating seven additional stores. Big B did not disclose same-store sales.

For the year to date the chain, which began its rebound during the fourth quarter of 1990, registered net profits of $3.28 million. That total …