Outlook Roundup: Chipotle, Liz Claiborne

DENVER (AP) Fast-casual restaurant chain Chipotle Mexican Grill Inc. said Thursday it expects to grow earnings at least 25 percent in 2008 amid a difficult restaurant environment.

NEW YORK (AP) Liz Claiborne Inc. on Thursday provided the latest evidence that the women's apparel sector is struggling, forecasting fourth-quarter results well below expectations on weak sales from various brands including its namesake label.

NORWALK, Conn. (AP) Online travel company Priceline.com Inc. on Thursday issued a 2008 profit estimate in line with Wall Street predictions.

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) Medical device maker American Medical Systems Holdings Inc. on Thursday said it expects adjusted 2008 profit above Wall Street expectations.

CHELMSFORD, Mass. (AP) Hittite Microwave Corp., which makes semiconductors, guided its first-quarter profit and revenue below Wall Street's forecast on Thursday.

DULLES, Va. (AP) Satellite and rocket maker Orbital Sciences Corp. raised its 2008 guidance Thursday, saying it now expects to earn between 95 cents and $1 per share a range that still falls short of analysts' expectations.

LOS ANGELES (AP) Casual-dining chain operator California Pizza Kitchen Inc. on Thursday reaffirmed 2008 earnings, which could fall below analyst expectations amid a difficult restaurant environment.

ARLINGTON, Tenn. (AP) Medical device maker Wright Medical Group Inc. said Thursday it expects first-quarter and full-year 2008 adjusted profit above Wall Street expectations.

SUWANEE, Ga. (AP) Arris Group Inc., which develops cable phone and television services, on Thursday issued a first-quarter outlook significantly lower than Wall Street estimates because of lower demand from its largest customer.