Home fragrance marketer Blyth, Inc. posted net sales for the second quarter ended July 31, 2008 increased approximately 1% to $236.8 million. Operating profit for the second quarter rose 5% to $8.1 million.

Commenting on the company’s financial results, Robert B. Goergen, Blyth’s chairman of the board and chief executive officer, said, “PartyLite’s European markets continued to experience strong sales growth as the consumer responded particularly well to summer promotions even as discretionary spending has contracted.”

Net sales for the six months ending July 31, 2008 declined approximately 4% to $486.6 million, while operating profit slipped 4% to $18 million.

The company also updated its fiscal year 2009 outlook. Guidance for the cash flow from operations of approximately $80 million for the full fiscal year is anticipated versus prior guidance of $90 million. Capital spending of approximately $10 million is also expected for fiscal year 2009.