Uniform maker Cintas Corporation on Tuesday reported a 10.4 per cent rise in first quarter revenues of $823.5 million, up from last year's $746 million.

The company also reported a 9.5 perccent increase in net income of $79.5 million compared to $72.7 million last year.

Earnings per diluted share of $.47 increased 11.9 perccent from last year's $.42 per diluted share.

Strong gross margins, cost reductions and productivity improvements were all said to be behind the improved performance.

Scott D Farmer, chief executive officer, said the company was reiterating its original revenue and earnings per share guidance for fiscal 2006.

It expects revenue to be in the range of $3.35 billion to $3.45 billion with full year earnings per share (diluted) in the range of $1.95 to $2.05.