• September 26, 2008

McCormick & Co., the world's largest spice marketer, says its sales gained 9% in the third quarter to $782 million, buoyed by its 2008 acquisition of Lawry's. And earnings jumped 21%, helped by the sale of its Season-All brand.

The Sparks, Md.-based company also attributed the strong results to increased marketing support of its leading brands.

"In the third quarter we stepped up marketing support behind this year's new products, as well as Grill Mates, grinders and seafood items," the company says in its release. "Acquisitions, marketing support and other investments in our business have us well-positioned for the upcoming holiday season and on-track for strong results in 2008."--Nina M. Lentini