Lindsay Corp. reports 32-cent beat in Q2

LNN earned 79 cents/share on $108.4 million in revenues.

The backlog of unshipped orders at February 29, 2008 was $98.5 million compared with $38.4 million at February 28, 2007. Irrigation backlog increased $58.6 million ($55.6 million prior to the inclusion of Watertronics) on significantly improved order flow for both domestic and international markets. Infrastructure backlog increased $1.5 million.

Rick Parod, president and chief executive officer, commented, “Demand for irrigation equipment is strong globally, supported by higher commodity prices, bio fuel expansion and water initiatives. Infrastructure segment demand for the unique solutions provided by our products is also strong and we continued to realize synergies from the acquisitions in this segment during the period. Our factories responded to this demand with significant production increases. During the quarter we continued to expand the margins through improved efficiencies, volume leverage and cost reduction initiatives.”

Parod added, “With the current USDA forecast of a second consecutive year of record net cash farm income in 2008, we believe domestic demand for our irrigation products will remain robust. International demand is also expected to increase on the strength of higher agricultural commodity prices and global agricultural development. World-wide interest in the unique road safety products in our infrastructure segment provides continued opportunities for superior growth.”

Parod concluded, “We are focused on achieving growth in each of our segments organically and through acquisitions. During the quarter we acquired Watertronics, Inc., a leader in the design, manufacture, and service of water pumping stations and controls for the golf, landscape and municipal markets. This will further enhance Lindsay’s capabilities in providing innovative, turn-key solutions to customers through the integration of proprietary pump station controls and designs. I am happy to welcome their employees, distributors and suppliers to the Lindsay Corporation family. We will continue to leverage our financial flexibility to create shareholder value through a balance of organic growth opportunities, strategic acquisitions, share repurchases, and dividend payments.”