10-QPeriod: Q3 FY2007

AMETEK INC/ Quarterly Report for Q3 Ended Sep 30, 2007

Filed November 2, 2007For Securities:AME

Summary

AMETEK, Inc. (AME) reported strong financial results for the third quarter and the first nine months of 2007, showcasing significant year-over-year growth in net sales, operating income, and net income. The company's strategic acquisitions, notably five new businesses in the first nine months of 2007 and another subsequent acquisition announced shortly after the quarter's end, were key drivers of this expansion, contributing substantially to both revenue and backlog growth. The integration of these acquisitions appears to be proceeding well, with management highlighting their strategic fit and expected contributions. Financially, AME demonstrated robust operational performance with increased sales across both its Electronic Instruments Group (EIG) and Electromechanical Group (EMG). This growth was supported by strong internal sales expansion and favorable foreign currency movements. The company also managed its financial condition effectively, with improved operating cash flow and a strategic re-alignment of its debt structure, including a significant private placement of Senior Notes to fund existing debt and general corporate purposes. AMETEK's proactive approach to capital management, combined with its consistent performance, positions it favorably for continued growth.

Key Highlights

  • 1Net sales for Q3 2007 increased by 13.9% to $528.8 million, driven by 6% internal growth and contributions from recent acquisitions.
  • 2Nine-month net sales grew 16.1% to $1,553.6 million, with approximately 7% internal growth, excluding currency effects.
  • 3Diluted EPS for Q3 2007 rose 17.8% to $0.53, and for the nine months to $1.55.
  • 4The company completed the acquisition of five businesses for $214.6 million in the first nine months of 2007, with annualized sales of $152 million.
  • 5Operating income margin improved to 18.2% for Q3 2007 (from 17.2% in Q3 2006) and for the nine months to 18.2% (from 17.2% in 2006).
  • 6AMETEK secured $450 million in Senior Notes through a private placement to refinance existing debt and for general corporate purposes.
  • 7The company amended and extended its revolving credit facility, increasing its borrowing capacity to $550 million.

Frequently Asked Questions

AMETEK's revenue growth in Q3 2007 was driven by a combination of strong internal sales growth of approximately 6% across its Electronic Instruments Group (EIG) and Electromechanical Group (EMG), and significant contributions from recent acquisitions. These acquisitions, completed in 2006 and 2007, added to sales through both acquired backlog and the integration of new product lines and market reach.

The acquisition strategy played a crucial role in AMETEK's growth. The company acquired five businesses in the first nine months of 2007 for $214.6 million, which contributed substantially to the increase in net sales and backlog. These acquisitions, focused on strategic fits within its EIG and EMG segments, are expected to drive future growth and enhance its market position in specialized sectors.

AMETEK's total debt stood at $780.3 million as of September 30, 2007. To manage its debt and support growth, the company entered into a private placement to sell $450 million in Senior Notes, scheduled for funding in December 2007 and July 2008. Proceeds will be used to refinance existing debt, including the redemption of $225 million of 7.20% Senior Notes, and for general corporate purposes. The company also amended its revolving credit facility to increase borrowing capacity to $550 million.

Share-based compensation expense for the first nine months of 2007 was $12.3 million, contributing to a reduction in net income by $8.9 million and diluted EPS by $0.08. The company recognized both stock option expense and restricted stock expense, with the latter including charges related to accelerated vesting of restricted stock grants in Q1 and Q3 2007. While impacting earnings, the company's management believes these costs are necessary for employee motivation and retention.