Tyson Foods, Pilgrim’s Pride Earnings Improve

Two poultry producers who operate private truck fleets reported improved profits in the most recent quarter.

Tyson Foods’ profit in its fiscal third quarter jumped to $134 million, or 35 cents per share, from $9 million, or 3 cents, a year earlier, the Associated Press reported.

Sales in the quarter dipped 3% to $6.66. Tyson, which is ranked No. 8 on the Transport Topics Private 100 listing of U.S. and Canadian private carriers, said that performance in its chicken business drove the profit increase.

Pilgrim’s Pride Corp., which is reorganizing under Chapter 11 bankruptcy, said it posted a profit of $53.2 million, or 72 cents a share, in the quarter ended June 27. That compares with a loss of $52.7 million, or 75 cents, the previous year.

Pilgrim’s Pride, which produces and distributes poulty and egg products, is ranked No. 18 on the Transport Topics Private 100 listing of U.S. and Canadian private carriers.