Top 40 supplier Ennis (asi/52493) has reported total sales of $93.6 million for its fiscal third quarter, ended November 30, a 5.5% year-over-year rise. Gross profit margin for continuing operations in the third quarter was $29.9 million, or 31.9%, up from $25.3 million, or 28.5%, in Q3 of 2016. Net earnings were $8.3 million, or $0.33 per diluted share. The company also generated EBITDA of $16.8 million, versus $12.4 million in the same quarter last year.

Meanwhile, the company’s revenues for the nine months ended November 30 were $283.1 million, an increase of 4.7% compared to $270.3 million in the same period last year. Gross profit margin was $90.6 million, or 32%, versus $179 million, or 29.2%, for the same period in 2016. Net earnings were $24.6 million ($0.97 per diluted share), versus $19.2 million ($0.74) in 2016.

The company cites the relocation and startup of Independent Printing Company, along with higher-than-normal medical expenses, as the causes of a negative impact on net earnings for the nine months ended November 30, to the tune of $4.4 million ($0.17). Ennis sold Alstyle Apparel (asi/34817) to Gildan Activewear (asi/56842) in May 2016, and acquired Independent Printing in January 2017.

“We continue to be pleased with our operational performance this fiscal year and our ability to successfully put the negative overhangs of the prior fiscal year behind us,” said CEO Keith Walters. “Our most recent acquisition continues to perform well, with operating results improving as our integration plans progress.”

Ennis ranks seventh on Counselor’s list of the largest suppliers in the industry, with reported promotional product sales of $235 million for fiscal year 2016.