Lancaster Colony Corporation announced that its Board of Directors has declared a quarterly cash dividend of 40 cents per share on the company's common stock, payable on June 28, 2013 to shareholders of record on June 10, 2013. The board voted to increase the quarterly dividend to 40 cents per share, up from the 38-cent level for the past two quarters.

Lancaster Colony Corporation provided earnings guidance for the fourth quarter ending June 30, 2013. The company estimates that the cash transaction will result in a pretax loss of less than $1 million, subject to post-closing adjustments. The loss will be reflected in the results for the company’s fiscal fourth quarter ending June 30, 2013. Historic net sales and operating results of the product lines sold were immaterial to consolidated results.

Lancaster Colony Corporation reported unaudited consolidated earnings results for the third quarter and nine months ended March 31, 2013. For the quarter, the company's net sales increased 3% to $280 million against $271 million in the third quarter last year, reflecting growth in Specialty Foods sales. Net income totaled $21.8 million compared with $18.2 million for the corresponding quarter a year ago, primarily reflecting improved Specialty Foods operating results. Third quarter net income per basic and diluted share totaled $0.80 compared to $0.67 a year ago. Operating income was $32.3 million compared with $27.95 million a year ago. Income before income taxes was $32.2 million compared with $27.99 million a year ago. For the nine months, the company's net sales were $897 million compared to $857 million a year ago. Net income was $83.8 million, or $3.06 per basic and diluted share. Net income for the nine months last year totaled $69.9 million, or $2.56 per basic and diluted share. Operating income was $125.5 million compared with $104.2 million a year ago. Income before income taxes was $125.7 million compared with $106.95 million a year ago.