AMVAC sales increased by 28% in 2018

American Vanguard's sales rose 13% to $131 million in the fourth quarter of 2018. For the full year of 2018, its sales were up by 28% to $454 million.

Eric Wintemute, Chairman and CEO of American Vanguard, stated: “Our 46% improvement in operating income was driven by both our existing businesses (approximately one third) and the new products and businesses acquired during the second half of 2017 (approximately two thirds). These acquisitions broadened and diversified our product portfolio and expanded the footprint of our international business, which now constitutes one-third of our consolidated revenue. All of these assets were purchased at attractive investment values, leaving us with ample borrowing capacity to pursue additional acquisitions in 2019 and beyond.”

Mr. Wintemute continued: “Our full-year gross profit margin remained strong at 40%, and we experienced outstanding factory utilization with under absorption costs down about $11 million year-over-year. Net income rose 19% for the full year, and, if adjusted for the $3.4 million one-time tax benefit recorded in 2017, it would have been 43%. During the same period, EBITDA2  increased by 25%.”

Mr. Wintemute concluded: “Late last year, during a period of overall equity market volatility, the Board of Directors authorized a share repurchase program, under which we have repurchased approximately $10 million in company common stock. We believe this has served to enhance stock price stability, while reversing dilution from past equity grants. With a full year’s experience in integrating our new businesses, our outlook for 2019 remains positive. Despite early season wet weather conditions in the US, we expect our global revenues for 2019 will exceed $500 million, our gross profit margins should remain in the 38% to 40% range, and our operating expenses are targeted at 31% of sales. We look forward toward giving you a more detailed presentation on the 2018 year during our upcoming earnings call.”