Coca-Cola Enterprises profit in-line with estimates

Net income rose 25.8 percent for the largest bottler of Coca-Cola Co (NYSE: - ) drinks, boosted by a one-time tax benefit and other items, but earnings from operations fell as shipment volume weakened in North America and Europe.

The company posted net income of $268 million, or 55 cents per share, for the third quarter, compared with $213 million, or 44 cents per share, a year ago.

Excluding items, the company earned 44 cents per share, down from 45 cents a year ago. Analysts on average forecast 44 cents a share, according to Reuters Estimates.

Net operating revenue rose 3.6 percent to $5.41 billion.

The company shipped 2.5 percent fewer cases during the quarter, compared with a year earlier, while costs rose 6 percent and price per case rose 4 percent, excluding the impact of the weaker dollar.

For the year, the company now expects earnings of $1.31 to $1.36 a share, excluding restructuring charges. Analysts on average forecast $1.30 a share, according to Reuters Estimates.