Jack in the Box Inc. (NYSE: JBX), operator and franchiser of Jack in the Box® restaurants, today reported a 4.9 percent year-to-year increase in same-store sales for the recent four-week period, which ended August 5.

"Our commitment to the Jack in the Box brand and to a great restaurant experience for our customers continues to be reflected in our sales growth,'' said Chairman and CEO Robert J. Nugent.

The company reiterated its recent fourth-quarter earnings estimate of between 53-57 cents per diluted share, with same-store sales increases slightly above third-quarter results.

Founded in 1951, Jack in the Box is the nation's first major drive-thru hamburger chain. With fiscal-year 2000 systemwide sales of nearly $2 billion, the San Diego-based company operates or franchises more than 1,720 quick-serve restaurants in 16 states, and has more than 43,000 employees. For additional financial information, visit the Investors section of the company's Web site, www.jackinthebox.com.