BUSINESS WIRE -- Ruby Tuesday reported revenue of $317.5 million for its third fiscal quarter ended March 3, 2009, versus $351.2 million for the same period a year ago, with the decrease reflecting a 6.8% decline in same-restaurant sales and 50 fewer restaurants in operation than in the prior year. The Company also reported diluted earnings per share of $0.09 on net income of $4.8 million for the Company’s third quarter. This compares to diluted earnings per share of $0.23 on net income of $11.7 million for the third quarter of the prior year. As part of the restructuring announced in December 2008, third quarter 2009 earnings include Closures and impairment expenses of $14.6 million pre-tax, which reduced diluted earnings per share by $0.17. During the quarter, the Company was successful in moderating its sales decline and controlling costs at both the restaurant and corporate levels. Operating results also benefited from the previously announced restaurant closings.
