Summary
Waste Management, Inc. (WM) reported a strong financial performance in its 2011 10-K filing, highlighting revenue growth driven by improved commodity prices, a robust fuel surcharge program, and strategic acquisitions, most notably Oakleaf Global Holdings. The company generated $13.4 billion in revenue, a 6.9% increase from the previous year, and $2.5 billion in net cash from operating activities. WM also demonstrated a commitment to shareholder returns, returning $1.2 billion through dividends and share repurchases. Key strategic goals include deepening customer understanding, extracting more value from materials through technology, and enhancing operational efficiency. The company is investing in "greener technologies" and expanding its service offerings, reflecting a focus on sustainability and adapting to industry changes. Despite facing intense competition and ongoing regulatory environments, WM's diversified operations across collection, landfill, transfer, recycling, and waste-to-energy segments position it as a leader in the North American waste management industry.
Financial Highlights
53 data points| Revenue | $13.38B |
| Cost of Revenue | $1.29B |
| Gross Profit | $12.09B |
| SG&A Expenses | $1.55B |
| Operating Expenses | $11.35B |
| Operating Income | $2.03B |
| Interest Expense | $503.00M |
| Net Income | $961.00M |
| EPS (Basic) | $2.05 |
| EPS (Diluted) | $2.04 |
| Shares Outstanding (Basic) | 469.70M |
| Shares Outstanding (Diluted) | 471.40M |
Key Highlights
- 1Revenue grew by 6.9% to $13.4 billion in 2011, primarily driven by improved recyclable commodity prices, a fuel surcharge program, and the acquisition of Oakleaf Global Holdings.
- 2Net cash provided by operating activities increased by 8.5% to $2.5 billion in 2011.
- 3The company returned $1.2 billion to shareholders through dividends ($637 million) and share repurchases ($575 million) in 2011.
- 4WM owns and operates the largest network of landfills in the industry with 271 sites.
- 5The company is expanding its renewable energy offerings through waste-to-energy and landfill gas-to-energy facilities.
- 6Acquisition of Oakleaf Global Holdings for $432 million in July 2011 is expected to enhance national accounts customer base and comprehensive environmental solutions.
- 7Despite a challenging economic environment and competitive landscape, WM is focused on strategic growth initiatives, operational efficiency, and cost savings.