- Net loss of $289 million or $0.39 per diluted share includes $345 million noncash pension settlement charge
- Earnings before special items increased 14 percent compared with fourth quarter 2018
- Repurchased $60 million of common shares during the first quarter
SEATTLE, April 26, 2019 -- Weyerhaeuser Company (NYSE: WY) today reported a first quarter net loss of $289 million, or 39 cents per diluted share, on net sales of $1.6 billion. This compares with net earnings of $269 million, or 35 cents per diluted share, on net sales of $1.9 billion for the same period last year.
First quarter includes after-tax charges of $369 million for special items, primarily consisting of a previously announced noncash settlement charge related to the transfer of pension assets and liabilities through the purchase of a group annuity contract. Excluding special items, the company reported net earnings of $80 million, or 11 cents per diluted share, for the first quarter of 2019. This compares with net earnings before special items of $275 million for the same period last year and $70 million for the fourth quarter of 2018.
Adjusted EBITDA for the first quarter was $365 million compared with $544 million for the first quarter of last year and $346 million for the fourth quarter of 2018.
"I am proud of our first quarter results, as we delivered strong operating performance, improved financial results in each of our businesses compared with the fourth quarter, repurchased $60 million of common shares, refinanced an upcoming debt maturity, and further reduced our pension liabilities," said Devin W. Stockfish, president and chief executive officer. "Looking forward, we anticipate modest year over year housing growth and expect that building activity will accelerate with improved weather and continued macroeconomic stability. We remain focused on driving industry-leading performance and delivering superior value for our shareholders."
Source: Weyerhaeuser
