The Toro Co. last week reported net earnings of $10.9 million, or $0.32 per share, on net sales of $331.4 million for its fiscal first quarter ended Jan. 29. In the comparable fiscal 2009 period, the company reported net earnings of $6.7 million, or $0.18 per share, on net sales of $340.2 million. Financial results for last year’s first quarter were reduced by a pre-tax charge of $1.3 million, or $0.02 per share on an after-tax basis, to account for workforce adjustments.
“Even with a slight decline in net sales, the leaner cost structure we put in place last year helped improve our profitability,” said Michael Hoffman, Toro’s chairman and CEO. “After a very difficult fiscal 2009, we are encouraged with how the new fiscal year has begun. With the peak selling season still ahead, we remain guarded in our market outlook, but believe our many new products will help drive retail sales and share gains. Given our leaner cost structure, and continued focus on innovation and asset management, we believe we are well positioned to benefit from a recovery in retail demand as our markets improve.”
The company now expects fiscal 2010 net earnings per share to be about $2.15 on revenues comparable with fiscal 2009. For its fiscal 2010 second quarter, the company expects to report net earnings per share of about $1.15.
The Toro Company, Bloomington, Minn., is a leading worldwide provider of outdoor maintenance equipment and beautification products to help customers care for golf courses, sports fields, public green spaces, commercial and residential properties, and agricultural fields.
