Higher Sales for Quiksilver

Quiksilver Inc., one of the county’s largest surf wear makers, reported slightly higher sales but lower earnings in the third quarter, blaming the slow economy.

The Newport Beach-based company said net sales for the quarter ended July 31 were $25.9 million, up 5% from $24.6 million in the same period a year ago. Net income was $2 million, or 32 cents a share, down 30% from $2.6 million, or 41 cents a share, in last year’s third quarter.

For the first nine months of the fiscal year, sales were $77.3 million, up 6% over $72.6 million in the same period last year. Net income was $6.4 million, down 16% from last year’s $7.6 million.