10-QPeriod: Q1 FY2002

REPUBLIC SERVICES, INC. Quarterly Report for Q1 Ended Mar 31, 2002

Filed May 13, 2002For Securities:RSG

Summary

Republic Services, Inc. (RSG) reported its first quarter 2002 financial results, showing a modest increase in revenue and net income compared to the prior year. Total revenue grew by 3.1% to $551.9 million, driven by a combination of acquisitions and internal growth, although price increases were somewhat dampened by declining commodity prices. Net income rose to $54.9 million, or $0.32 per diluted share, up from $49.6 million, or $0.29 per diluted share, in the first quarter of 2001. The company also benefited from the adoption of SFAS 142, which eliminated goodwill amortization, positively impacting reported earnings. The company continues to manage its debt effectively, with a significant portion of its credit facility remaining available. Investments in property and equipment, particularly for landfill development, remain substantial, reflecting the ongoing capital-intensive nature of the business. Management remains focused on operational efficiencies and strategic growth through acquisitions, while navigating a dynamic regulatory environment and market conditions.

Key Highlights

  • 1Revenue increased by 3.1% to $551.9 million for the three months ended March 31, 2002, compared to $535.4 million in the prior year period.
  • 2Net income grew to $54.9 million ($0.32 per diluted share) from $49.6 million ($0.29 per diluted share) in the comparable 2001 period.
  • 3The adoption of SFAS 142 (Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets) eliminated goodwill amortization, which would have added $6.0 million to net income in the prior year, leading to adjusted net income of $55.6 million for Q1 2001.
  • 4Cost of operations as a percentage of revenue slightly increased to 62.0% from 61.6%, attributed to higher insurance costs and declining commodity prices, partially offset by lower fuel prices.
  • 5The company has a substantial available disposal capacity in its landfills, with 1.7 billion in-place cubic yards, including both permitted and 'likely to be permitted' expansion airspace.
  • 6Cash provided by operating activities significantly increased to $134.6 million from $86.2 million in the prior year period.
  • 7The company repurchased $46.5 million of its common stock during the quarter, as part of a broader repurchase program.

Frequently Asked Questions

Republic Services reported an increase in both revenue and net income. Revenue grew by 3.1% to $551.9 million, and net income rose to $54.9 million ($0.32 per diluted share) from $49.6 million ($0.29 per diluted share) in the prior year's first quarter. This improvement was partly due to the adoption of SFAS 142, which eliminated goodwill amortization.

The company maintains a strong liquidity position with $438.2 million available under its revolving credit facility as of March 31, 2002, after reducing the facility's capacity. Long-term debt remains substantial but is managed through a mix of notes and credit facilities. Operating cash flow is the primary source for funding capital expenditures, acquisitions, and debt repayments.

Republic Services continues to grow through acquisitions, as evidenced by small acquisitions in both Q1 2002 and Q1 2001. Significant investments are being made in property and equipment, particularly in landfill development, with an expected future investment of $1.2 billion in existing landfills for cell construction and environmental structures. The company also actively repurchases its common stock.

The cost of operations as a percentage of revenue saw a slight increase due to higher insurance costs and the impact of declining commodity prices. These factors were partially offset by lower fuel prices and efforts to improve operating efficiencies. The company also incurs significant costs related to landfill development, closure, and post-closure activities.