Builders FirstSource Expands Reach with Alpine Lumber Purchase

Builders FirstSource to Acquire Alpine Lumber

DALLAS - Builders FirstSource, Inc. (NYSE: BLDR) is making waves in the Building Products industry with its bold move to acquire Alpine Lumber Company. This strategic acquisition will allow Builders FirstSource to expand its footprint in vital markets, including Colorado and New Mexico. With a remarkable market capitalization of $17.2 billion and annual revenue reported at $16.7 billion, Builders FirstSource is poised to enhance its operations significantly.

Strategic Growth through Acquisition

The acquisition is part of Builders FirstSource's strategic plan to invest in areas of high growth. Peter Jackson, the company’s President and CEO, noted that this move aligns perfectly with their vision of enhancing service to customers while creating benefits for employees and shareholders alike. Alpine Lumber, which has been employee-owned since its establishment in 1963, operates 21 locations and has showcased impressive trailing twelve-month sales of around $500 million.

Financial Outlook and Integration

Anticipating an accretive effect on adjusted earnings per share in 2025, Builders FirstSource plans to fund this acquisition through a blend of existing cash and credit resources. The company’s robust liquidity position enhances its growth strategy, making this acquisition a potential game changer. Hamid Taha, CEO of Alpine, expressed optimism about the future, emphasizing how this integration rewards the dedication of Alpine's employee owners.

Professional Advisory and Market Response

To facilitate this significant operation, Alpine received advice from Class VI Partners and Davis Graham, while Builders FirstSource enlisted Rothschild & Co and Centerview Partners LLC for financial counsel, with legal matters managed by Alston Bird. Builders FirstSource operates in 43 states and boasts approximately 580 locations, focusing on delivering an extensive array of building products for both new residential projects and remodeling endeavors.

Recent Financial Performance

Despite facing challenges, including third-quarter sales that fell short of projections and a recent revision of their full-year sales guidance for 2024, Builders FirstSource has exhibited resilience. The adjusted EBITDA margin of 14.8% exceeded estimates, indicating strong operational performance.

Sales Decline and Recovery Prospects

In Q3 2024, the company reported a 6.7% year-on-year decline in net sales, reaching $4.2 billion. Still, Builders FirstSource maintained robust gross margins of nearly 33% and sustained adjusted EBITDA margins over the past 14 quarters. Furthermore, the successful completion of six acquisitions contributed an additional $190 million in annual sales, alongside new leadership installation, with Peter Jackson appointed as CEO and Pete Beckmann as CFO.

Investment in Digital Tools and Future Growth

Builders FirstSource has made significant investments in digital tools, achieving nearly $600 million in orders since their launch. However, they have revised their 2024 incremental sales expectations downward to $110 million. In a move to strengthen its financial position, the company repurchased $160 million in shares and has earmarked between $5.5 billion and $8.5 billion for capital investments from 2024 through 2026.

Looking Ahead

As they grapple with recent challenges such as hurricanes impacting sales, Builders FirstSource projects net sales to range between $16.25 billion and $16.55 billion for 2024, with adjusted EBITDA expected between $2.25 billion and $2.35 billion. This forward-looking approach showcases Builders FirstSource's commitment to navigating the evolving building products landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of Builders FirstSource acquiring Alpine Lumber?

This acquisition allows Builders FirstSource to enhance its presence in key markets and aligns with its strategic growth goals.

How will this acquisition affect Builders FirstSource's earnings?

The acquisition is expected to be accretive to adjusted earnings per share in 2025, suggesting positive financial impacts.

What financial strategies is Builders FirstSource implementing for this acquisition?

They plan to finance the acquisition using a mix of existing cash and credit resources to ensure a smooth transition.

What challenges did Builders FirstSource face recently?

The company experienced a decline in third-quarter sales, resulting in a revision of their full-year sales forecast for 2024.

How does Builders FirstSource plan to bolster its market position moving forward?

They are focusing on digital tools and maintaining strong operational execution while continuing to expand through strategic acquisitions.

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