Ruby Tops Expectations

Article Excerpt

RUBY TUESDAY, INC. $6.85 (New York symbol RT; SI Rating: Speculative) (865-379- 5700; www.rubytuesday.com; Shares outstanding: 52.8 million; Market cap: $361.7 million) has reported fiscal fourth-quarter earnings that exceeded consensus expectations. In the three months ended June 3, 2008, earnings per share fell 41.3%, to $0.27 from $0.46 a year earlier. However, consensus forecasts were for earnings of just $0.20 a share. Sales fell 4.3%, to $341.4 million from $356.8 million. Ruby Tuesday plans to close 15 underperforming restaurants as their leases expire. It also continues to re-position itself as offering higher-quality food but at higher prices. We think Ruby Tuesday will succeed in improving its menu, service and advertising to attract customers. Ruby Tuesday is still a buy. buy…