Nov 8, 2004 10:58 AM, from staff and wire reports

Pilgrim's Pride Corp reported record net income of $72.3 million for the fourth fiscal quarter ended Oct 2, 2004. This compares with fiscal 2003’s fourth quarter net income of $25.1 million.

For fiscal 2004, the Pittsburg TX-based poultry producer tallied record net income of $125.4 million, versus fiscal 2003’s net income of $56.0 million.

“Our record performance in both the fourth fiscal quarter and annual period ended Oct 2, 2004, reflects both the successful integration of the ConAgra chicken division acquisition and the benefits of pursuing a growth strategy centered around our Prepared Foods business, which grew more than 25% on a pro forma basis over the past fiscal year,” said O B Goolsby, president and chief executive officer.