Sysco Corp., Houston, TX, reported sales for the third quarter ended March 28, 2009, were $8.7 billion, down 4.5% from the prior year period. Profit decreased 6.1% to $226 million.
 
Fiscal year-to-date sales were flat compared to the first nine months of fiscal year 2008. Profit for the first three quarters fell 4.1%.
 
"Our third quarter results reflect the increasingly difficult market environment that has developed as our fiscal year has progressed. Nevertheless, we are encouraged by our operating companies’ ongoing ability to provide excellent customer service while managing costs effectively," CEO Bill DeLaney …