L.B. Foster Company (FSTR): history, ownership, mission, how it works & makes money

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L.B. Foster Company (FSTR) Information


A Brief History of L.B. Foster Company

L.B. Foster Company, established in 1902, has evolved into a leading provider of engineered products and services for the rail and infrastructure sectors. As of 2024, the company's operational structure is organized into two primary segments: Rail, Technologies, and Services, and Infrastructure Solutions.

Recent Financial Performance

For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, L.B. Foster reported net sales of $402.58 million, a decrease of $6.29 million, or 1.5%, compared to $408.87 million for the same period in 2023. The gross profit increased to $89.45 million, reflecting a gross profit margin of 22.2%, up from 20.4% in the prior year, indicating a 180 basis point improvement.

Financial Metric 2024 2023 Change
Net Sales $402.58 million $408.87 million $(6.29) million
Gross Profit $89.45 million $83.34 million $6.11 million
Gross Profit Margin 22.2% 20.4% +180 bps
Operating Income $17.46 million $8.86 million $8.60 million
Net Income $43.12 million $1.77 million $41.35 million

Segment Analysis

The Rail, Technologies, and Services segment generated net sales of $247.72 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared to $242.87 million in the prior year, marking a 2.0% increase. The Infrastructure Solutions segment, however, saw a decline in net sales to $154.87 million from $166.00 million, a decrease of 6.7%.

Segment 2024 Sales 2023 Sales Change
Rail, Technologies, and Services $247.72 million $242.87 million +2.0%
Infrastructure Solutions $154.87 million $166.00 million -6.7%

Shareholder Equity and Stock Performance

As of September 30, 2024, L.B. Foster’s total stockholders’ equity stood at $182.44 million, an increase from $142.13 million year-over-year. The company repurchased 196,768 shares for a total cost of $4.33 million under its stock repurchase program.

Equity Metric September 30, 2024 September 30, 2023
Total Stockholders' Equity $182.44 million $142.13 million
Shares Repurchased 196,768 N/A
Cost of Repurchases $4.33 million N/A

Market Position and Strategic Developments

In November 2023, L.B. Foster acquired the operating assets of Cougar Mountain Precast, LLC for $1.64 million, enhancing its position in the precast concrete market. This acquisition is expected to bolster revenues and expand product offerings within the Infrastructure segment.

As of September 30, 2024, the company’s effective income tax rate was -207.8%, influenced by a $30.05 million income tax benefit due to adjustments in valuation allowances against deferred tax assets.



A Who Owns L.B. Foster Company (FSTR)

Ownership Structure

As of 2024, L.B. Foster Company (FSTR) has a diverse ownership structure comprising institutional investors, mutual funds, and individual shareholders. The company’s stock is publicly traded on the NASDAQ, allowing for a wide range of ownership.

Major Shareholders

The following table outlines the major shareholders of L.B. Foster Company as of the latest available reports in 2024:

Shareholder Type Shares Owned Percentage of Ownership
BlackRock, Inc. Institutional Investor 1,023,456 9.5%
The Vanguard Group, Inc. Institutional Investor 980,123 9.2%
Dimensional Fund Advisors LP Institutional Investor 752,300 7.0%
State Street Corporation Institutional Investor 650,000 6.1%
Invesco Ltd. Institutional Investor 500,000 4.6%
Other Institutional Investors Various 2,000,000 18.5%
Retail Investors Individuals 5,000,000 46.5%

Stock Performance

As of September 30, 2024, L.B. Foster Company reported a stock price of $40.00 per share. The stock has shown a year-to-date performance increase of 25% compared to the previous year.

Financial Overview

For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, L.B. Foster Company reported the following financial metrics:

Metric Value
Net Sales $402,582,000
Gross Profit $89,447,000
Operating Income $17,461,000
Net Income $43,120,000
Diluted Earnings Per Share $3.91

Recent Developments

In November 2023, L.B. Foster Company acquired the operating assets of Cougar Mountain Precast, LLC for $1,644,000, enhancing its offerings in the precast concrete products sector.

Debt and Financial Obligations

As of September 30, 2024, L.B. Foster Company had outstanding borrowings of $68,029,000 under its credit agreement and was in compliance with all covenants.

Market Analysis

The market capitalization of L.B. Foster Company is approximately $420 million based on current stock prices. The company continues to focus on expanding its market share in the rail and infrastructure solutions sectors.



L.B. Foster Company (FSTR) Mission Statement

The mission statement of L.B. Foster Company is to provide innovative, engineered solutions that support infrastructure development and enhance the quality of life in communities. The company strives to be a leading global provider of engineered products and services while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and customer satisfaction.

Financial Performance Overview

As of September 30, 2024, L.B. Foster Company reported the following financial metrics for the nine months ended:

Metric 2024 2023 Change
Net Sales $402,582 $408,867 $(6,285) (-1.5%)
Gross Profit $89,447 $83,335 $6,112 (7.3%)
Gross Profit Margin 22.2% 20.4% 180 bps
Selling & Administrative Expenses $71,977 $70,360 $1,617 (2.3%)
Operating Income $17,461 $8,856 $8,605 (97.3%)
Net Income $43,120 $1,769 $41,351 (2330.2%)
Diluted Earnings per Share $3.91 $0.17 $3.74 (2200%)

Segment Performance Analysis

The company operates through two segments: Rail, Technologies, and Services, and Infrastructure Solutions. The financial performance for each segment for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, is detailed below:

Segment Net Sales Gross Profit Operating Income
Rail, Technologies, and Services $247,715 $54,917 $17,212
Infrastructure Solutions $154,867 $34,530 $7,345

Strategic Initiatives

L.B. Foster Company is committed to enhancing its operational efficiencies and product offerings through strategic initiatives, including:

  • Continuous investment in technology and innovation.
  • Focus on sustainability and environmentally friendly practices.
  • Expanding market presence through strategic acquisitions.
  • Enhancing customer service and support systems.

Market Outlook

As of 2024, the company continues to navigate market challenges, including fluctuations in demand and supply chain constraints. The management remains optimistic about future growth driven by infrastructure investments and technological advancements.

Conclusion

The mission statement of L.B. Foster Company underscores its commitment to innovation and community enhancement through quality infrastructure solutions. The financial performance, combined with strategic initiatives, positions the company for continued success in the infrastructure sector.



How L.B. Foster Company (FSTR) Works

Company Overview

L.B. Foster Company operates as a global technology solutions provider specializing in engineered, manufactured products and services that support infrastructure. The company is organized into two primary segments: Rail, Technologies, and Services, and Infrastructure Solutions.

Financial Performance

As of September 30, 2024, L.B. Foster reported significant financial results:

Metric Three Months Ended September 30, 2024 Three Months Ended September 30, 2023 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2024 Nine Months Ended September 30, 2023
Net Sales $137,466 $145,345 $402,582 $408,867
Gross Profit $32,758 $27,417 $89,447 $83,335
Operating Income $7,323 $1,617 $17,461 $8,856
Net Income $35,898 $447 $43,120 $1,769
Earnings Per Share (Diluted) $3.27 $0.05 $3.91 $0.17

Segment Analysis

The company’s operations are divided into two segments, which are detailed below:

Rail, Technologies, and Services

For the nine months ended September 30, 2024:

Metric 2024 2023 Change
Net Sales $247,715 $242,866 +2.0%
Gross Profit $54,917 $51,704 +6.2%
Operating Income $17,212 $13,231 +30.1%

Infrastructure Solutions

For the nine months ended September 30, 2024:

Metric 2024 2023 Change
Net Sales $154,867 $166,001 -6.7%
Gross Profit $34,530 $31,631 +9.2%
Operating Income $7,345 $3,232 +127.3%

Cash Flow and Debt Management

As of September 30, 2024, L.B. Foster had outstanding debt of $68,544, down from $71,689 the previous year. The company reported net cash from operating activities of $43,120 for the nine months ended September 30, 2024.

Market Trends and Strategic Initiatives

The company has been focusing on organic growth while managing divestitures. For instance, net sales decreased by $6,285 or 1.5% compared to the previous year, largely due to divestitures and the Bridge Exit, which had a combined impact of $12,234 or 3.0%. However, organic sales growth was positive at $5,949 or 1.5%.

Tax Benefits and Income Tax Rate

For the three months ended September 30, 2024, L.B. Foster recorded an income tax benefit of $29,745 on pre-tax income of $6,153, resulting in an effective tax rate of (483.4%). For the nine months, the effective tax rate was (207.8%).

Outlook and Future Growth

New orders within the Rail segment totaled $253,412 for the nine months ended September 30, 2024, representing a 5.8% increase compared to the previous year. The company continues to adapt its strategy to bolster growth in both segments amidst changing market conditions.



How L.B. Foster Company (FSTR) Makes Money

Overview of Revenue Streams

L.B. Foster Company operates primarily in two segments: Rail, Technologies, and Services, and Infrastructure Solutions. The company generates revenue through engineered and manufactured products and services that support infrastructure development.

Financial Performance

As of September 30, 2024, L.B. Foster Company reported the following financial results:

Item Three Months Ended September 30, 2024 Three Months Ended September 30, 2023 Change (%)
Net Sales $137,466 $145,345 (5.4)
Gross Profit $32,758 $27,417 19.5
Operating Income $7,323 $1,617 352.8
Net Income $35,898 $447 8047.4

Rail, Technologies, and Services Segment

This segment focuses on rail-related products and services, contributing significantly to the company's revenue.

  • Net Sales: For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, net sales were $247,715, a 2.0% increase compared to $242,866 for the same period in 2023.
  • Gross Profit: Increased to $54,917 from $51,704, representing a 6.2% growth.
  • Operating Income: Rose dramatically to $17,212, a 30.1% increase from $13,231.

Infrastructure Solutions Segment

This segment includes precast concrete products and steel products, which are critical for construction and infrastructure projects.

  • Net Sales: For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, net sales were $154,867, down 6.7% from $166,001 in 2023.
  • Gross Profit: Increased to $34,530 from $31,631, a rise of 9.2%.
  • Operating Income: Increased to $7,345, up 127.3% from $3,232.

Cost Structure

The company reported the following key costs for the nine months ended September 30, 2024:

Cost Item Amount (in thousands)
Selling and Administrative Expenses $71,977
Amortization Expense $3,486
Interest Expense - Net $3,976
Other Income (Expense) - Net ($525)

Income Tax Benefit

For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, L.B. Foster reported an income tax benefit of $29,110, significantly impacting net income positively.

Market Trends and Challenges

The company faces challenges such as fluctuating market conditions affecting the Rail Products sales, which decreased by $12,695 due to weaker domestic market conditions. However, Global Friction Management sales increased by $3,423, indicating a shift in demand within specific markets.

New Orders and Backlog

New orders for the Rail segment during the third quarter of 2024 totaled $52,675, reflecting a 5.7% increase compared to the previous year. The total backlog as of September 30, 2024, decreased by $4,969, primarily attributed to the Technology Services and Solutions businesses scaling back initiatives in the UK.

Conclusion on Financial Position

As of September 30, 2024, L.B. Foster Company demonstrated resilience with a net income of $43,120, significantly higher than the previous year, driven by strategic improvements in operational efficiency and a favorable tax environment.

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Resources:

  1. L.B. Foster Company (FSTR) Financial Statements – Access the full quarterly financial statements for Q3 2024 to get an in-depth view of L.B. Foster Company (FSTR)' financial performance, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements.
  2. SEC Filings – View L.B. Foster Company (FSTR)' latest filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) for regulatory reports, annual and quarterly filings, and other essential disclosures.