Ruth's Hospitality Group, Inc. (RUTH) has reported 3.15 percent fall in profit for the quarter ended Dec. 25, 2016. The company has earned $9.21 million, or $0.30 a share in the quarter, compared with $9.51 million, or $0.28 a share for the same period last year. On the other hand, adjusted net income for the quarter stood at $9.65 million, or $0.31 a share compared with $8.77 million or $0.26 a share, a year ago.

Revenue during the quarter went up marginally by 2.75 percent to $107.63 million from $104.75 million in the previous year period. Gross margin for the quarter expanded 160 basis points over the previous year period to 30.29 percent. Total expenses were 86 percent of quarterly revenues, down from 87.59 percent for the same period last year. This has led to an improvement of 159 basis points in operating margin to 14 percent.

Operating income for the quarter was $15.06 million, compared with $13 million in the previous year period.

Michael P. O'Donnell, chairman and chief executive officer of Ruth's Hospitality Group, Inc., noted, "Our fourth quarter results capped off our 5th consecutive year of earnings growth. These results would not be possible without the dedication to operational excellence from our franchisees and team members."