Business news digest

REGION

Howland-based Stoneridge increases earnings, sales

HOWLAND — Stoneridge earned $4.7 million, or 20 cents a share, in the second quarter, compared with $2.7 million, or 11 cents a share, in the same quarter last year. Sales in the second quarter were $213.2 million, compared with $183.8 million for the same quarter last year.

The company said its increased sales were the result of a new electronics program in North America, improvement in its European electronic business and the impact of foreign currency values. The company is based in Howland but has plants around the world that produce electrical and electronic components for automakers.

NATION

GM: Several companies want to buy Hummer

DETROIT — General Motors Corp. says several outside parties are interested in buying its Hummer brand, known for its huge, rugged vehicles that come with poor fuel economy.

GM announced in June that it would review the brand for potential sale in an era of $4-per-gallon gasoline. Company spokesman Tom Wilkinson would not comment on reports that GM is talking with Indian automaker Mahindra Mahindra Ltd. about buying the iconic brand.

From Vindicator staff and wire reports