Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage, Inc. reported unaudited consolidated earnings results for the first quarter ended December 31, 2012. For the year, the company's net sales were $95,831,348 compared with $74,838,619 a year ago. The increase was due to an increase of $11.3 million in sales from new stores and a 12.9% increase in comparable store sales. Operating income was $3,789,151 compared with $2,019,777 a year ago. Income before income taxes was $3,536,238 compared with $1,846,260 a year ago. Net income was $2,221,400 compared with $1,259,998 a year ago. Net income attributable to the company was $2,221,400 or $0.10 per basic and diluted share compared with $990,312 or $0.04 per basic and diluted share a year ago. Net cash provided by operating activities was $2,340,307 compared with $4,334,872 a year ago. Acquisition of property and equipment was $8,824,547 compared with $4,332,843 a year ago. EBITDA was $6,783,027 compared with $4,306,480 a year ago.

The company updated earnings guidance for fiscal 2013. The company expects comparable store sales growth of 8% - 9% compared to 7.5% - 8.5% expected previously. EBITDA percentage of sales is expected to be 7.2% - 7.4% compared to 7% - 7.2% expected previously. Net income percent of sales was 2.5% to 2.7%. Diluted earnings per share were $0.46 to $0.49. Capital expenditures were $8.8 million compared with previous guidance of $25 million to $30 million.