Zukunftspotential bei Spartan Motors - 500 Beiträge pro Seite

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Diese Aktie wurde zu Unrecht abgestraft und wird derzeit stark geshortet.
Sie sollte auf die Beobachtungsliste für den Anleger, der sich intensiv über seine Investments informiert.

Ich komme später aud die Vorteile von Spartan zu sprechen, hier die letzten news:

Spartan Motors Appoints Vice President of Public Affairs and Brand Management
CHARLOTTE, Mich., Dec. 3 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- David L. Reid has joined Spartan Motors, Inc. (Nasdaq: SPAR) as vice president of public affairs and brand and strategic management, bringing 30 years of experience in marketing, corporate communications and branding leadership to the newly created position.

Reid will take an active role in corporate communications and brand management for Spartan Motors and its subsidiaries Spartan Chassis, Crimson Fire, Crimson Fire Aerials and Road Rescue. As part of the position, he will lead and coordinate investor relations, marketing, government affairs, public relations and corporate communications initiatives to Spartan's stakeholders.

'We are pleased to have Dave on the team, and expect his experience will be key in integrating our marketing and communication functions and elevating awareness and affinity toward Spartan Motors,' said John Sztykiel, president and chief executive officer of Spartan Motors. 'We are also looking forward to his expertise in working with customers and industry partners, including government entities, which are a growing audience we have cultivated through our work with military customers.

'Dave helps strengthen the management team at Spartan Motors from a strategic planning and brand management perspective, a critical role as we continue to turn our record backlog into income and achieve strong top- and bottom-line growth.'

Reid was previously chief marketing officer with a consumer products company. Reid also spent 20 years with publicly traded global furniture maker Herman Miller , Inc., including a role as senior vice president and general manager of Milcare, a subsidiary of Herman Miller specializing in healthcare furniture and equipment. While leading Milcare, he successfully returned the unit to profitability by developing government relationships, expanding into international markets and operational improvements. Reid was a member of Herman Miller's executive management team and Milcare's board of directors.

Reid earned a Bachelor of Science degree in business administration from Arizona State University.

About Spartan Motors

Spartan Motors, Inc. ( www.spartanmotors.com ) designs, engineers and manufactures custom chassis and vehicles for the recreational vehicle, fire truck, ambulance, emergency-rescue and specialty vehicle markets. The Company's brand names - Spartan(TM), Crimson Fire(TM), Crimson Fire Aerials(TM), and Road Rescue(TM) - are known for quality, value, service and being the first to market with innovative products. The Company employs approximately 1,300 at facilities in Michigan, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and South Dakota. Spartan reported sales of $445 million in 2006 and is focused on becoming the premier manufacturer of specialty vehicles and chassis in North America.

This release contains forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements concerning our business, future plans and objectives and the performance of our products. These forward-looking statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that ultimately may not prove to be accurate. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Technical complications may arise that could prevent the prompt implementation of the plans outlined above. The company cautions that these forward-looking statements are further qualified by other factors including, but not limited to, those set forth in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K filing and other filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (available at http://www.sec.gov ). Government contracts and subcontracts typically involve long payment and purchase cycles, competitive bidding, qualification requirements, delays or changes in funding, extensive specification development and changes, price negotiations and milestone requirements. An announced award of a governmental contract is not equivalent to a finalized executed contract and does not assure that orders will be issued and filled. Government agencies also often retain some portion of fees payable upon completion of a project and collection of contract fees may be delayed for long periods, which can negatively impact both prime contractors and subcontractors. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any statements in this release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

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27.11.2007 13:49
Spartan Chassis Announces Record Setting RVIA
LOUISVILLE, Ky., Nov. 27 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Spartan Chassis, (Nachrichten) Inc., (Booth # 1004 - South Wing) a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, Inc. , today reported that a record number of motorhome models will feature the company's custom chassis. The Charlotte, Mich.-based manufacturer of custom chassis said its products will be featured on 40 different RV models at the 45th Annual RVIA Trade Show in Louisville, Ky., up from 36 in 2006.

Spartan attributed the growth to its ability to produce highly customized chassis to support the new generation of RV's that are currently being produced. All Spartan chassis are custom engineered to meet individual coach- builder specifications, allowing Spartan to be the platform for a wide variety of vehicles ranging from mid-size Class A models all the way to luxurious highline motorhomes. Spartan's family of chassis, consisting of the frame assembly, engine, transmission, electrical system and running gear, combine for the best performing driving experience in the Class A RV market.

"Our OEM partners continue to come up with creative, and innovative motorhome designs, and they know that they can look to us to provide them with a premium, high-performance foundation that can support their unique models and needs," said Richard Schalter, president of Spartan Chassis. "The fact that our product can be found on so many different vehicles is a testament to our individualized approach and true custom-build business model. We are on track to produce more chassis in 2007 than we did in 2006, and we have solid expectations for 2008 to grow even more based on our increased market share of the 2009 model year RVs."

RVIA is the preeminent trade show for the RV dealer market, annually showcasing the latest RV technology and new models. More than 14,000 RV dealers, warehouse distributors, accessory store owners, campground operators and exhibitors are expected to attend this year's RVIA event, which will feature innovative products and services across more than 920,000 square feet of exhibit space.

About Spartan Chassis, Inc.:

Spartan Chassis, Inc., a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, Inc. , is a leading developer and manufacturer of custom chassis for recreational vehicles, fire trucks and specialty vehicles. Spartan Motors, which also manufactures emergency rescue vehicles under the brand names of Crimson Fire, Crimson Fire Aerials and Road Rescue, reported sales of $445 million in 2006 and is focused on becoming the premier manufacturer of specialty vehicles and chassis in North America.

This release contains forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements concerning our business, future plans and objectives and the performance of our products. These forward-looking statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that ultimately may not prove to be accurate. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Technical complications may arise that could prevent the prompt implementation of the plans outlined above. The company cautions that these forward-looking statements are further qualified by other factors including, but not limited to, those set forth in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K filing and other filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (available at http://www.sec.gov/). Government contracts and subcontracts typically involve long payment and purchase cycles, competitive bidding, qualification requirements, delays or changes in funding, extensive specification development and changes, price negotiations and milestone requirements. An announced award of a governmental contract is not equivalent to a finalized executed contract and does not assure that orders will be issued and filled. Government agencies also often retain some portion of fees payable upon completion of a project and collection of contract fees may be delayed for long periods, which can negatively impact both prime contractors and subcontractors. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any statements in this release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.


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23.11.2007 17:35
Spartan Motors - Beobachtung gestartet
Spartan Motors wird von Barrington Research mit Outperform gestartet und Kursziel $13

(© BörseGo AG 2007 - http://www.boerse-go.de, Autor: Maier Gerhard, Redakteur)

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20.11.2007 18:13
Spartan Chassis Receives $49 Million Subcontract to Supply Chassis Components for High Priority MRAP Vehicle Production
CHARLOTTE, Mich., Nov. 20 /PRNewswire/ -- Spartan Chassis, (Nachrichten) Inc., a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, Inc. , today announced it has received a $49 million subcontract order from General Dynamics Land Systems to supply and integrate key chassis components in the production of advanced tactical vehicles under the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected, or MRAP, program.

The vehicles under this order will be utilized by multiple branches of the U.S. military. MRAPs are prized by the military for their V-shaped hulls, raised chassis and improved armor, which help protect servicemen and women from improvised explosive devices, or IEDs, mines and other hazards of war.

"This latest contract award is further validation of Spartan's expertise and responsiveness in the critical role we play in the production of MRAP vehicles," said Richard Schalter, president of Spartan Chassis. "These vehicles continue to be the U.S. military's highest priority and we are honored to be among the suppliers selected to provide products that safeguard the lives of our military men and women."

MRAP vehicles are prized by the military for their V-shaped hulls, raised chassis and improved armor, which help protect servicemen and women from improvised explosive devices, or IEDs, mines and other hazards of war.

General Dynamics Land Systems, headquartered in Sterling Heights, Michigan, is a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics Corporation . The company designs and builds armored vehicles and subsystems for the U.S. Army, U.S. Marine Corps, and international customers, and is the defense industry's largest supplier of armored military vehicles.

About Spartan Chassis, Inc.:

Spartan Chassis, Inc., a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, Inc. , is a leading developer and manufacturer of custom chassis for recreational vehicles, fire trucks and specialty vehicles. Spartan Motors, which also manufactures emergency rescue vehicles under the brand names of Crimson Fire, Crimson Fire Aerials and Road Rescue, reported sales of $445 million in 2006 and is focused on becoming the premier manufacturer of specialty vehicles and chassis in North America.

This release contains forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements concerning our business, future plans and objectives and the performance of our products. These forward-looking statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that ultimately may not prove to be accurate. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Technical complications may arise that could prevent the prompt implementation of the plans outlined above. The company cautions that these forward-looking statements are further qualified by other factors including, but not limited to, those set forth in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K filing and other filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (available at http://www.sec.gov/). Government contracts and subcontracts typically involve long payment and purchase cycles, competitive bidding, qualification requirements, delays or changes in funding, extensive specification development and changes, price negotiations and milestone requirements. An announced award of a governmental contract is not equivalent to a finalized executed contract and does not assure that orders will be issued and filled. Government agencies also often retain some portion of fees payable upon completion of a project and collection of contract fees may be delayed for long periods, which can negatively impact both prime contractors and subcontractors. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any statements in this release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.



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14.02.2008 13:46
Spartan Motors Reports Record Year; Fourth Quarter Profits Double
CHARLOTTE, Mich., Feb. 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Spartan Motors, Inc. reported its best quarter and year-end sales and earnings results in company history, capping off a record setting year for one of the leading manufacturers of custom vehicle chassis and emergency-rescue vehicles.

Full Year Results

For the year ended 2007, Spartan reported sales increased 53.1 percent and net earnings increased 45.6 percent compared to last year. Spartan reported net earnings of $24.5 million, or $0.75 per diluted share, on net sales of $681.9 million for the year ended 2007, compared with last year's net earnings of $16.8 million, or $0.55 per diluted share, on net sales of $445.4 million. (All financial information includes adjustments for the company's 3-for-2 stock splits in June 2007 and Dec. 2006.)

Spartan Motors' consolidated backlog increased 45.8 percent over the same time last year to approximately $338.4 million as of Dec. 31, 2007, reflecting an increase in orders from Spartan's military customers. Consolidated backlog declined 11.7 percent compared to levels as of Sept. 30, 2007, reflecting improvements in production rates which also led to a 219.5 percent increase in fourth quarter 2007 earnings compared to the third quarter of 2007. Spartan Motors anticipates filling its current backlog orders by October 2008.

Fourth Quarter 2007 Results

Spartan reported net earnings of $8.2 million, or $0.25 per diluted share, on net sales of $237.6 million in the fourth quarter ended Dec. 31, 2007, compared with net earnings of $3.3 million, or $0.10 per diluted share, on net sales of $123.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2006.

"2007 was a year of rapid sales growth, competitive pricing and investment in flexible manufacturing capacity," said John Sztykiel, president and CEO of Spartan Motors Inc. "Although we had some margin compression as a result, these strategic investments have helped us secure more orders as reflected in our current backlog, and positioned us for continued growth."

Spartan reported gross margin of 12.7 percent in the fourth quarter 2007, a decrease compared with gross margin of 16.8 percent in the same period in 2006, though an improvement over gross margin of 11.8 percent for the third quarter of 2007. Spartan attributed the year-over-year decrease in gross margin to volume pricing pressure, increased bill of materials costs and product mix. Spartan reported the increase in gross margin compared to the 2007 third quarter was due to improvements in production efficiency and pricing in the 2007 fourth quarter.

2008 Outlook

"Looking ahead to 2008 we are expecting a year of solid sales growth, driven in part by our largest ever fourth quarter backlog," said Sztykiel. "Our multi-market strategy is a diversified business model where our customers operate on different business cycles, providing us upside potential and reducing downside risk.

"We are anticipating a tough market for recreational vehicles, but we are cautiously optimistic based on the number of models on Spartan chassis, (News) up from 36 models in the 2006 to 40 models in 2007. While the RV industry had a tough year in 2007, Spartan grew market share and shipped more units in 2007 compared to 2006.

"Although municipalities continue to manage ever-tightening budgets, our aging population continues to drive demand for emergency services. Every 20 seconds there is a call for help in the U.S., according to the National Fire Protection Association. This increasing demand, and the state of some competitors in the industry, could provide Spartan opportunities to grow sales as municipal funding is impacted by economic uncertainties."

Spartan Chassis

Sales for the fourth quarter at Spartan Chassis, the company's largest operating unit, increased 85.7 percent year-over year to $211.2 million. Spartan Chassis was 88.9 percent of Spartan Motors' total sales. Fourth quarter net earnings at Spartan Chassis improved 74.2 percent year-over-year, and the unit's backlog as of Dec. 31, 2007 increased 76.8 percent year-over- year.

Spartan's chassis sales to the Class A diesel motorhome market increased 11.9 percent year-over-year in the 2007 fourth quarter, reflecting the market share growth within the luxury motorhome market and outpacing flat industry wholesale shipments reported by the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) . Backlog for RV chassis decreased slightly year-over-year to $27.3 million as of Dec. 31, 2007.

Sales of fire truck chassis increased 2.6 percent in the fourth quarter of 2007 compared to the same period last year. Backlog for fire truck chassis at the end of the fourth quarter was $60.4 million, a 28.5 percent decrease compared with last year. The year-over-year decrease in backlog in the 2007 fourth quarter reflected both industry-wide softness in municipal ordering, and an improvement in delivery time of product from Spartan to customers.

Other product sales, including specialty vehicle chassis for MRAP military vehicles, and Spartan Chassis' growing service, parts and accessories business, increased 233.9 percent year-over-year in the fourth quarter of 2007. Backlog for other products more than tripled over the same period of 2006 to $199.4 million as of Dec. 31, 2007. Spartan expects to report additional orders in the near future from its military customers.

Emergency Vehicle Team (EVTeam)

Spartan's EVTeam operating unit, consisting of its Crimson Fire, Crimson Fire Aerials and Road Rescue subsidiaries, reported a 67.3 percent year-over- year increase in sales for the 2007 fourth quarter, though the unit posted a net loss for the quarter. The EVTeam reported backlog of $51.3 million at the end of the quarter, a 26.4 percent decrease compared to the unit's backlog in the fourth quarter of 2006, reflecting higher production rates as well as the softening in municipal ordering in the second half of 2007.

"Crimson Fire and Crimson Fire Aerials underperformed compared to the fourth quarter of 2006, though both are making improvements in efficiency over where they were in the third quarter of 2007," Sztykiel said. "While we are disappointed with the rate of progress at the EVTeam in 2007, we are cautiously optimistic about their potential in 2008."

Financial Position

Spartan reported operating cash flow improvement in the fourth quarter of 2007 of $9.1 million compared to the same quarter of 2006, driven largely by increased income and improvements in the cash conversion cycle.

On a consolidated basis, Spartan posted a return on invested capital (ROIC) of 27.4 percent in the fourth quarter of 2007, compared to ROIC of 12.3 percent for the same quarter in 2006. For the year ended, Spartan reported a consolidated ROIC of 19.8 percent in fiscal 2007, compared to ROIC of 15.7 percent for fiscal 2006. (Spartan defines return on invested capital as operating income less taxes, on an annualized basis, divided by total shareholders' equity.)

The company ended the quarter with $62.7 million in long-term debt, which includes financing for Spartan Chassis' new facilities and growth in working capital to support its increased orders. Spartan reported $13.5 million in cash and cash equivalents at the end of the fourth quarter of 2007.

Shareholder Value Creation

As reported in early January 2008, Spartan repurchased 250,000 shares of its common stock in the open market during the fourth quarter of 2007. Spartan repurchased a total of 300,000 shares in 2007.

In Dec. 2007, Spartan paid a special dividend of $0.03 per share of common stock along with its regular cash dividend of $0.05 per share, for total dividend payments of $0.13 per share in fiscal 2007. Adjusted for the stock splits, Spartan's total cash dividends increased 8.3 percent compared with 2006. Fiscal 2007 marked the fifth consecutive year the company increased its total dividend payments to shareholders.

Conference Call&Webcast

Spartan Motors will host a conference call for analysts and portfolio managers at 10 a.m. ET today to discuss these results and current business trends. To listen to a live webcast of the call, please visit ) designs, engineers and manufactures custom chassis and vehicles for the recreational vehicle, fire truck, ambulance, emergency-rescue and specialty vehicle markets. The Company's brand names -- Spartan(TM), Crimson Fire(TM), Crimson Fire Aerials(TM), and Road Rescue(TM) -- are known for quality, value, service and being the first to market with innovative products. The Company employs approximately 1,300 at facilities in Michigan, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and South Dakota. Spartan reported sales of $681.9 million in 2007 and is focused on becoming the premier manufacturer of specialty vehicles and chassis in North America.

This release contains forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements concerning our business, future plans and objectives and the performance of our products. These forward-looking statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that ultimately may not prove to be accurate. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Technical complications may arise that could prevent the prompt implementation of the plans outlined above. The company cautions that these forward-looking statements are further qualified by other factors including, but not limited to, those set forth in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K filing and other filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (available at http://www.sec.gov/). Government contracts and subcontracts typically involve long payment and purchase cycles, competitive bidding, qualification requirements, delays or changes in funding, extensive specification development and changes, price negotiations and milestone requirements. An announced award of a governmental contract is not equivalent to a finalized executed contract and does not assure that orders will be issued and filled. Government agencies also often retain some portion of fees payable upon completion of a project and collection of contract fees may be delayed for long periods, which can negatively impact both prime contractors and subcontractors. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any statements in this release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

Spartan Motors, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

December 31, December 31,
2007 2006
$-000- $-000-
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $13,527 $13,835
Accounts receivable, net 132,907 62,620
Inventories 103,076 64,173
Deferred income tax assets 6,925 4,567
Deposits on engines 10,900
Other current assets 1,978 1,882
Total current assets 258,413 157,977

Property, plant and equipment, net 56,673 29,659
Goodwill 2,457 2,457
Deferred income tax assets 775
Other assets 346 555
Total assets $318,664 $190,648

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $90,769 $30,704
Accrued warranty 10,824 6,381
Accrued compensation and
related taxes 10,431 7,712
Accrued vacation 1,758 1,483
Accrued customer rebates 1,963 3,471
Deposits from customers 5,540 7,465
Taxes on income 551 1,566
Other current liabilities and
accrued expenses 3,367 2,591
Current portion of long-term debt 522 521
Total current liabilities 125,725 61,894

Long-term debt, less current portion 62,695 25,218
Other non-current liabilities 1,025
Deferred income tax liabilities 355

Shareholders' equity:
Common stock 324 317
Additional paid in capital 62,649 54,233
Retained earnings 66,246 48,631
Total shareholders' equity 129,219 103,181

Total liabilities and
shareholders' equity $318,664 $190,648



Spartan Motors, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
Three Months Ended December 31, 2007 and 2006

December 31, 2007 December 31, 2006
$-000- % $-000- %

Sales 237,567 123,608
Cost of Products Sold 207,345 102,840
Gross Profit 30,222 12.7 20,768 16.8

Operating Expenses:
Research and Development 4,543 1.9 3,720 3.0
Selling, General and
Administrative 12,541 5.3 10,865 8.8
Total Operating Expenses 17,084 7.2 14,585 11.8

Operating Income 13,138 5.5 6,183 5.0

Other Income (Expense):
Interest Expense (830) (0.3) (196) (0.2)
Interest and Other Income 205 0.1 291 0.3
Total Other Income (Expense) (625) (0.2) 95 0.1

Earnings before Taxes on Income 12,513 5.3 6,278 5.1

Taxes on Income 4,301 1.8 2,998 2.4

Net Earnings 8,212 3.5 3,280 2.7

Basic Net Earnings per Share 0.26 0.11

Diluted Net Earnings per Share 0.25 0.10

Basic Weighted Average Common Shares
Outstanding 32,070 30,931

Diluted Weighted Average Common
Shares Outstanding 32,780 32,031



Spartan Motors, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2007 and 2006

December 31, 2007 December 31, 2006
$-000- % $-000- %

Sales 681,922 445,378
Cost of Products Sold 585,421 372,002
Gross Profit 96,501 14.2 73,376 16.5

Operating Expenses:
Research and Development 15,868 2.3 12,622 2.8
Selling, General and
Administrative 41,383 6.1 33,446 7.6
Total Operating Expenses 57,251 8.4 46,068 10.4

Operating Income 39,250 5.8 27,308 6.1

Other Income (Expense):
Interest Expense (1,748) (0.3) (347) (0.0)
Interest and Other Income 725 0.1 1,011 0.2
Total Other Income (Expense) (1,023) (0.2) 664 0.2

Earnings before Taxes on Income 38,227 5.6 27,972 6.3

Taxes on Income 13,723 2.0 11,144 2.5

Net Earnings 24,504 3.6 16,828 3.8

Basic Net Earnings per Share 0.77 0.57

Diluted Net Earnings per Share 0.75 0.55

Basic Weighted Average Common Shares
Outstanding 31,935 29,606

Diluted Weighted Average Common
Shares Outstanding 32,833 30,531



Spartan Motors, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Sales and Other Financial Information by Business Segment
Quarter Ended December 31, 2007

Three Months Ended December 31, 2007 (amounts in thousands)

Business Segments
Chassis EVTeam Other Consolidated

Motorhome Chassis Sales 52,145 52,145
Fire Truck Chassis Sales 28,899 (1,176) 27,723
EVTeam Product Sales 27,590 27,590
Other Product Sales 130,109 130,109

Total Net Sales 211,153 27,590 (1,176) 237,567

Interest Expense (Income) 469 361 830
Depreciation Expense 529 273 478 1,280
Segment Net Earnings (Loss) 12,991 (1,779) (3,000) 8,212


Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2007 (amounts in thousands)

Business Segments
Chassis EVTeam Other Consolidated

Motorhome Chassis Sales 217,225 217,225
Fire Truck Chassis Sales 116,236 (23,041) 93,195
EVTeam Product Sales 89,453 89,453
Other Product Sales 282,049 282,049

Total Net Sales 615,510 89,453 (23,041) 681,922

Interest Expense (Income) 1,618 130 1,748
Depreciation Expense 1,796 1,165 1,102 4,063
Segment Net Earnings (Loss) 34,815 (5,069) (5,242) 24,504


Period End Backlog (amounts in thousands)

December March June September December
31, 31, 30, 30, 31,
2006 2007 2007 2007 2007

Motorhome Chassis * 28,198 37,679 23,768 26,097 27,312
Fire Truck Chassis * 84,445 84,416 72,097 67,071 60,374
Other Product * 49,729 53,178 131,801 228,803 199,362
Total Chassis 162,372 175,273 227,666 321,971 287,048
EVTeam Product * 69,715 74,843 62,691 61,178 51,316

Total Backlog 232,087 250,116 290,357 383,149 338,364

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15.02.2008 17:31
Spartan Chassis Receives $133.8 Million Order from BAE Systems for Production of MRAP Vehicles
CHARLOTTE, Mich., Feb. 15 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Spartan Chassis, (News) Inc., a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, Inc. , today announced it has received a subcontract order worth approximately $133.8 million with defense contractor BAE Systems (News) to support the production of advanced tactical vehicles under the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected, or MRAP, program.

Under the terms of the subcontract, the Mich.-based custom chassis manufacturer will supply and integrate key chassis components for BAE Systems' RG33 Category I and II vehicles. The vehicles are scheduled to be completed during the first three quarters of 2008 and are slated for use by the U.S. military.

"This contract and our ongoing relationship with BAE Systems is further affirmation of Spartan Chassis' ability to leverage our expertise in the design, material logistics and assembly of these life-saving vehicles," said Richard Schalter, president of Spartan Chassis. "The MRAP program remains a high priority for the military, and we are honored to be working alongside BAE to respond to that need and be a major supplier to this program."

MRAPs are prized by the military for their V-shaped hulls, raised chassis and improved armor, which help protect servicemen and women from improvised explosive devices, or IEDs, mines and other hazards of war.

About Spartan Chassis, Inc.:

Spartan Chassis, Inc., a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, Inc. , is a leading developer and manufacturer of custom chassis for recreational vehicles, fire trucks and specialty vehicles. Spartan Motors, which also manufactures emergency rescue vehicles under the brand names of Crimson Fire, Crimson Fire Aerials and Road Rescue, reported sales of $445 million in 2006 and is focused on becoming the premier manufacturer of specialty vehicles and chassis in North America.

This release contains forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements concerning our business, future plans and objectives and the performance of our products. These forward-looking statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that ultimately may not prove to be accurate. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Technical complications may arise that could prevent the prompt implementation of the plans outlined above. The company cautions that these forward-looking statements are further qualified by other factors including, but not limited to, those set forth in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K filing and other filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (available at http://www.sec.gov/). Government contracts and subcontracts typically involve long payment and purchase cycles, competitive bidding, qualification requirements, delays or changes in funding, extensive specification development and changes, price negotiations and milestone requirements. An announced award of a governmental contract is not equivalent to a finalized executed contract and does not assure that orders will be issued and filled. Government agencies also often retain some portion of fees payable upon completion of a project and collection of contract fees may be delayed for long periods, which can negatively impact both prime contractors and subcontractors. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any statements in this release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

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08.04.2008 22:24
Spartan Chassis Receives $45 Million in Orders for Production of MRAP Vehicles
CHARLOTTE, Mich., April 8, 2008 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Spartan Chassis, (News) Inc., a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, Inc. , today announced it has been awarded two new subcontract orders worth approximately $45 million to support the production of advanced tactical vehicles under the Mine Resistant Ambush Protected, or MRAP, program.

Under the terms of the new subcontracts, the Mich.-based custom chassis manufacturer will supply and integrate key chassis components for MRAP military vehicles manufactured by two of the leading defense contractors of these heavily-armored vehicles, Force Protection, Inc. which placed an order for 184 units, and General Dynamics Land Systems which ordered 180 units.

"The MRAP program remains a high priority for the military, and Spartan Chassis is dedicated to continuing to provide our expertise as long as the need exists," said Richard Schalter, president of Spartan Chassis. "We are proud that we have contributed to supplying these life-saving vehicles to our troops overseas."

MRAPs are prized by the military for their V-shaped hulls, raised chassis and improved armor, which help protect servicemen and women from improvised explosive devices, or IEDs, mines and other hazards of war.

About Spartan Chassis, Inc.:

Spartan Chassis, Inc., a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, Inc. , is a leading developer and manufacturer of custom chassis for recreational vehicles, fire trucks and specialty vehicles. Spartan Motors, which also manufactures emergency rescue vehicles under the brand names of Crimson Fire, Crimson Fire Aerials and Road Rescue, reported sales of $681.4 million in 2007 and is focused on becoming the premier manufacturer of specialty vehicles and chassis in North America.

About Force Protection, Inc.:

Force Protection, Inc. is a leading American designer, developer and manufacturer of life saving survivability equipment, predominantly ballistic- and blast-protected wheeled vehicles currently deployed by the U.S. military and its allies to support armed forces and security personnel in conflict zones. The Company's specialty vehicles, the Cougar and the Buffalo, and the Cheetah, are designed specifically for reconnaissance, forward command and control, and urban operations and to protect their occupants from landmines, hostile fire, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs, commonly referred to as roadside bombs). The Company is one of the original developers and primary providers of vehicles for the U.S. military's Mine Resistant Ambush Protected, or MRAP, vehicle program. For more information on Force Protection and its vehicles, visit .

This release contains forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements concerning our business, future plans and objectives and the performance of our products. These forward-looking statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that ultimately may not prove to be accurate. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Technical complications may arise that could prevent the prompt implementation of the plans outlined above. The company cautions that these forward-looking statements are further qualified by other factors including, but not limited to, those set forth in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K filing and other filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (available at http://www.sec.gov/). Government contracts and subcontracts typically involve long payment and purchase cycles, competitive bidding, qualification requirements, delays or changes in funding, extensive specification development and changes, price negotiations and milestone requirements. An announced award of a governmental contract is not equivalent to a finalized executed contract and does not assure that orders will be issued and filled. Government agencies also often retain some portion of fees payable upon completion of a project and collection of contract fees may be delayed for long periods, which can negatively impact both prime contractors and subcontractors. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any statements in this release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

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14.04.2008 14:47
Spartan Motors Announces Webcast of First Quarter Conference Call on April 24
CHARLOTTE, Mich., April 14 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Spartan Motors, (News) Inc. will announce its first quarter 2008 results prior to the market opening on April 24, 2008. The Company will also host a webcast of its conference call on the same day at 10 a.m. ET to discuss its financial results with analysts and institutional investors:

What: Spartan Motors, Inc. Announces First Quarter 2008 Results

When: April 24 at 10:00 a.m. ET

Where: .About Spartan Motors

Spartan Motors, Inc. (http://www.spartanmotors.com/ ) designs, engineers and manufactures custom chassis and vehicles for the recreational vehicle, fire truck, ambulance, emergency-rescue and specialty vehicle markets. The Company's brand names -- Spartan(TM), Crimson Fire(TM), Crimson Fire Aerials(TM), and Road Rescue(TM) -- are known for quality, value, service and being the first to market with innovative products. The Company employs approximately 1,300 at facilities in Michigan, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, and South Dakota. Spartan reported sales of $681.9 million in 2007 and is focused on becoming the premier manufacturer of specialty vehicles and chassis in North America.

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04.06.2008 16:41
Spartan Motors to Attend KeyBanc 2008 Industrial, Automotive and Transportation Conference
CHARLOTTE, Mich., June 4 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- John Sztykiel, president and chief executive officer of Spartan Motors, (News) Inc. , will attend the KeyBanc 2008 Industrial, Automotive and Transportation Conference on June 5 at the Boston Park Plaza. The conference will provide institutional investors with access to management through a series of one-on-one meetings and group presentations.

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10.07.2008 16:02
Spartan Motors Announces Webcast of Second Quarter Conference Call on July 24
CHARLOTTE, Mich., July 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Spartan Motors, (News) Inc. will announce its second quarter 2008 results prior to the market opening on July 24, 2008. The Company will also host a webcast of its conference call on the same day at 10 a.m. ET to discuss its financial results with analysts and institutional investors:

What: Spartan Motors, Inc. Announces Second Quarter 2008 Results

When: July 24 at 10:00 a.m. ET

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http://www.finanznachrichten.de/nachrichten-2008-07/artikel-…





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29.09.2008 17:06
Spartan Chassis Announces Multiple Orders for Mine-Protected Variant Vehicles
CHARLOTTE, Mich., Sept. 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Spartan Chassis, (News) a unit of Spartan Motors, Inc. , said it has received multiple, small specialized orders for new MRAP variant products, an indication of the possibilities for the highly successful mine-resistant, ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicle program.

Spartan said it is now supplying more than 20 threat-specific variants of mine-protected vehicles for the U.S. military and a growing number of allied militaries, including those of Great Britain, Italy, Canada, Iraq and Yemen. These mine-protected variants of MRAPs -- which include ordnance disposal, ground ambulance, recovery vehicles and specially outfitted vehicles for Special Forces units -- are enabling troops to perform a far greater range of activities while benefiting from the unique life-saving attributes of the V-shaped, blast-protected hull.

"Unfortunately, improvised explosive devices -- IEDs -- continue to increase in popularity as a weapon of choice, and the data indicates growing use worldwide," said John Sztykiel, president and CEO of Spartan Motors. "Faced with this threat, the U.S. military is increasingly drawing on our team's expertise and that of our OEM partners to produce threat-specific, even one-off MRAP variants. These vehicles must perform specialized, mission-critical tasks such as supporting Special Forces operations, executing ordnance removal and disposal or extracting injured soldiers in a mine-protected ambulance configuration. It is an honor for Spartan Chassis to be the go-to company in assisting with the rapid creation and production of these threat-specific vehicles."

Spartan has become a leading, critical supplier of a broad array of mine-protected vehicle models, including:

-- MRAP and MRAP-Plus vehicles, including Cougar and RG-33
-- Iraqi Light Armored Vehicle (ILAV) for allied Iraqi Security Forces
-- Yemen Light Armored Vehicle (YLAV) for Yemeni Military
-- Joint Explosive Ordnance Disposal Rapid Response Vehicles (JERRV)
-- Mine Resistant Recovery and Maintenance Vehicles (MRRMV)
-- Heavy Armored Ground Ambulances (HAGA)
-- Special Operations Command vehicles (SOCOM)
-- Mastiff MRAP for the United Kingdom
-- MRAP variants for Italy and Canada
-- TLAV -- Mine-protected training vehicle for the U.S. Navy and the Joint
Improvised Explosive Device Defense Organization


MRAP vehicles are a family of heavily armored fighting vehicles specially designed to survive deadly IED (improvised explosive device) attacks, which have been responsible for 60 percent of all U.S. casualties in Iraq, and are a growing problem in Afghanistan and other hot spots of the global war on terror. The vehicles are defined by their innovative, V-shaped hulls, which deflect explosive forces originating below the vehicle -- a point of weakness for non-MRAP military vehicles, such as Humvees.

"As mine-protected vehicles continue to evolve to meet emerging threats, Spartan's expertise in rapid automotive engineering, speed-to-market and custom production positions us to meet future design reset requirements -- and sustain these variant programs with parts and service in the field," added Sztykiel. "Product and safety innovation are historical strengths of Spartan Chassis stemming from our 30-year heritage protecting emergency-rescue first responders, and we expect our capabilities to play an important role in the success of the military's next generation of tactical wheeled vehicles."

Since 2005, Spartan has invested about $16 million in facilities and equipment for military production. Spartan has shared its military-related work with 100 Michigan-based companies, helping to employ 6,400 Michigan workers and spending $148.4 million with these companies in 2007 alone.

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30.09.2008 16:18
Spartan Motors Teams with Zondervan for Bible Across America RV Tour
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., Sept. 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Spartan Motors, (News) Inc. announced it has teamed up with global publisher Zondervan to sponsor a coast-to-coast, 44-state RV tour of America aimed at directly reaching 31,000 people and millions more through co-marketing, national publicity and events.

Spartan Motors, a leading specialty vehicle and chassis maker including chassis for Class A RVs, said it is partnering with Zondervan, the world's leading Bible publisher, on a five-month, 90-city cross-country tour - Bible Across America - to handwrite and publish a new Bible one person, one verse at a time. At the conclusion of the tour, the Bible - America's NIV - will be published with all 31,173 contributors listed in the appendix and then sold in stores nationwide.

Spartan Motors is donating the use of one of its RV test units, a 42-foot, 500 h.p. luxury Fleetwood American Eagle motorhome with a Spartan K2 chassis, for the 15,000-mile tour, as well as providing road-side assistance through its national network or dealer and service partners.

"The Bible Across America Tour is a unique opportunity for Spartan to build our brand and reach a broad cross-section of consumers," said John Sztykiel, president and CEO of Spartan Motors. "Our chassis have been the premier choice for RV enthusiasts who have come to trust Spartan for our performance, quality and service, and we felt this tour was an ideal way to showcase the Spartan experience and provide the Zondervan RV team with a premium ride as they drive cross-country in one of most unique RV tours imaginable."

Bible Across America is being launched to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the New International Version (NIV) translation, the best-selling and most trusted translation of the Bible. The tour will make scheduled stops at events, universities, retail stores, churches, American landmarks and other venues to allow people of all ages and walks of life to write a verse in the Bible, which will then be published and sold nationwide. The tour kicks off Sept. 30 in Grand Rapids, Mich. and includes stops ranging from a NASCAR race in Charlotte, N.C. to the National Pastor's Convention in San Diego, as well as signing events in the heart of New York City and for legislators at the Capitol in Washington D.C. (Tour stops and real-time blog updates: http://www.bibleacrossamerica.com/)

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14.10.2008 15:20
U.S. Military Recognizes Spartan Chassis' Workforce During Ceremony Today at Company Headquarters
CHARLOTTE, Mich., Oct. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Senior officials from the U.S. military's Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) Joint Program Office are hosting a special ceremony today to recognize Spartan Chassis (News) employees for their critical role in the rapid production and deployment of the military's highest priority, MRAP vehicles.

Spartan Chassis, a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, Inc. , will host the military officials and other dignitaries at the company's headquarters in Charlotte, Mich., flanked by massive MRAP vehicles. Military officials will present a plaque to more than 500 Spartan workers for their vital role in engineering, manufacturing and servicing these lifesaving MRAP vehicles.

What: Spartan Chassis MRAP Workforce Recognition Ceremony
When: Tuesday, Oct. 14 at 1:00 p.m.
Where: Plant 6, Spartan Chassis in Charlotte, Mich.
Media Attendance: Contact Ryan McGrath at 616-233-0500


"We are extremely proud of our employees and their dedication and determination in building these life-saving machines and serving our men and women on the front lines," said John Sztykiel, president and CEO of Spartan Motors. "Our team was able to move from concept to production in less than 6 months -- an impressive feat by any measure -- and rapidly helped solve the single biggest threat facing our troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.

"In addition to being among the first manufacturers of these vehicles, Spartan has also helped produce more mine-resistant vehicles -- including MRAPs, Iraqi Light Armored Vehicles (ILAVs) and other variants -- than any other U.S. manufacturer. We believe mine-resistant vehicles and similar variants will continue to play a critical role in the ever-changing Global War on Terror."

Since 2005, Spartan has served as a military subcontractor of choice, providing specialty chassis, interiors and comprehensive automotive integration and assembly for the nation's primary MRAP manufacturers, including BAE Systems, Force Protection and General Dynamics Land Systems. Spartan now supplies more than 20 different threat-specific, mine-protected vehicle variants, including specialized configurations of MRAPs, such as those customized for ambulance duties, ordnance removal or for transporting Special Operations troops.

MRAPs are a family of heavily armored military vehicles designed to survive IED (improvised explosive device) attacks, the cause of 60 percent of all U.S. casualties in Iraq. MRAP vehicles feature innovative, V-shaped hulls that deflect explosive forces originating below the vehicle -- a notorious point of weakness for non-MRAP military vehicles, such as Humvees. According to government sources, MRAPs have the highest survivability of all vehicles deployed in combat, including tanks.

Spartan has invested approximately $16 million in facilities and equipment for its military production work since 2005. Spartan has shared its military-related work with 100 Michigan-based companies, helping to employ 6,400 Michigan workers and spending $148.4 million with these companies in 2007 alone.

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23.10.2008 13:46
Spartan Motors Highlights Third Quarter Results

CHARLOTTE, Mich., Oct. 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --

-- Net sales of $237.5 million, up 59.5% compared to third quarter 2007

-- Net earnings of $0.45 per diluted share, up 462.5% year-over-year

-- Return on invested capital of 35.3%, up 315.3% year-over-year

-- Gross margin of 18.1%, up 53.4% year-over-year

-- Consolidated backlog of $183.8 million


Spartan Motors, Inc. reported its best third quarter in company history, with a nearly 60 percent year-over-year increase in revenues and a greater than five-fold increase in net earnings.

Third Quarter Results

Spartan reported record third quarter net earnings of $14.7 million, or $0.45 per diluted share, on net sales of $237.5 million for the quarter ended Sep. 30, 2008, compared with net earnings of $2.6 million, or $0.08 per diluted share, on net sales of $148.9 million in the same quarter of 2007.

Through the first nine months of 2008, Spartan's sales increased 57.1 percent and net earnings grew 144.6 percent compared to the nine-month period in 2007. The company posted net earnings of $1.22 per diluted share for the first nine months of 2008, compared with net earnings per diluted share of $0.50 in the same period of 2007. Spartan's results for the first nine months of 2008 already exceed its best annual results ever.

"This was an excellent quarter for Spartan, especially given the tumultuous national economic environment," said John Sztykiel, president and CEO of Spartan Motors. "Our market diversification and flexible manufacturing model continue to allow us to grow and profitably compete in difficult times. During the quarter, we ramped up production rapidly and efficiently to complete a sizable military order.

"Last year's third quarter was our first substantial ramp up of military production, and our year-over-year improvement in gross margin reflects how far we have come in production efficiencies. This scalable business model will serve us well in the coming quarters, as two of our core markets face challenges. The RV market is difficult and while we have initiatives in place, it is a very challenging environment.

"Our military role is evolving from a rapid production and deployment stage to a long-term sustainment and partnership model, marked by smaller volumes of a wider range of mine-protected variants. Emergency-rescue continues to be a great foundation with tremendous opportunity, and we are focused on growing our success via new product launches, conquering the emissions change in 2010, and capitalizing on the continued disarray among some of our competitors in the industry. Our service, parts and accessories business is growing across our three core markets as we become more effective at maximizing value there."

Spartan reported gross margin of 18.1 percent in the third quarter of 2008, a 53.4 percent increase over the same period in 2007. Spartan attributed the year-over-year increase in gross profit to improved product mix, higher absorption of overhead due to increased sales and better production efficiencies for its specialty vehicle operations.

Spartan Motors reported consolidated backlog of approximately $183.8 million as of Sept. 30, 2008 and the company anticipates fulfilling its current backlog orders by July 2009.

Spartan Chassis

Sales at Spartan Chassis, (News) the company's largest subsidiary and operating unit, increased 61.4 percent year-over year to $224.2 million for the current quarter. Spartan Chassis represented 94.4 percent of Spartan Motors' total consolidated sales in the 2008 third quarter, and third quarter earnings at Spartan Chassis improved 229.9 percent year-over-year.

Spartan's chassis sales to the Class A diesel motorhome market decreased 67.4 percent year-over-year in the quarter. Spartan's backlog for RV chassis decreased 65.2 percent year-over-year to $9.1 million as of Sept. 30, 2008. In comparison, the Recreational Vehicle Industry Association (RVIA) is reporting 2008 wholesale Class A motorhome shipments are down 46.9 percent through August, the latest data available. Sales of fire truck chassis in the quarter increased 20.9 percent compared to the same period in 2007, and backlog for fire truck chassis at the end of the 2008 third quarter was $70.8 million, a 5.6 percent year-over-year increase.

Other products sales, including specialty chassis for MRAP military vehicles, and Spartan Chassis' growing service, parts and accessories (SPA) business, increased 179.4 percent year-over-year in the third quarter of 2008. Reflected in this sales increase is a production shift of a portion of a large military order from the second quarter 2008 to the third quarter 2008. Other products backlog, which does not include service parts, was $46.0 million as of Sept. 30, 2008, compared to other product backlog of $228.8 million for the same date in 2007.

Emergency Vehicle Team (EVTeam)

Spartan's EVTeam operating unit, consisting of its Crimson Fire, Crimson Fire Aerials and Road Rescue subsidiaries, reported a 13.7 percent year-over-year increase in sales for the 2008 third quarter, and represented 5.6 percent of total company-wide sales in the quarter. Though the unit posted a net loss for the quarter, the EVTeam reported a 60.6 percent improvement in segment bottom-line compared to the third quarter of 2007, driven by higher volumes and improved operating efficiencies.

"The ambulance business is especially exciting today, as industry forecasts indicate a 17 percent year-over-year increase in shipments in 2009," said Sztykiel. "For emergency-rescue in general, every 1.4 seconds there is a call for help in the U.S., regardless of conditions in the economy."

Financial Position

Spartan reported an operating cash flow use in the current quarter of $11.2 million. The company ended the quarter with $6.9 million in cash and cash equivalents, as well as $74.3 million in long-term debt, including $47.5 million borrowed under Spartan's line of credit.

"A large portion of our debt and operating cash flow use during the quarter was due to working capital needed for the production of a sizable military vehicle order," said Jim Knapp, chief financial officer of Spartan Motors. "Our balance sheet is healthy, we have already paid back all of our borrowings under the line of credit as of Oct. 22. We expect to continue to generate cash in the fourth quarter as we reduce working capital, putting us on strong financial ground moving into 2009."

With the decline in the need for working capital, Spartan Motors will decrease its line of credit with J.P. Morgan Chase Bank from $75 million to $50 million by the end of 2008. In conjunction with this reduction, Spartan has negotiated an interest rate of 75 basis points over LIBOR for draws and a 20 basis point commitment fee on the unused portion of the line, with these rates/fees locked until the September 2010 maturity of the line of credit.

"The company took an opportunity to lock-in our borrowing costs under the line of credit until maturity. In return, we agreed to decrease the size of the line to eliminate unneeded capacity," said Knapp. "The result is we now have a right-sized line of credit with below current market rates for an extended period of time."

On a consolidated basis, Spartan posted a return on invested capital (ROIC) of 35.3 percent in the third quarter of 2008, compared to ROIC of 8.5 percent for the same quarter in 2007. Spartan defines return on invested capital as operating income less taxes, on an annualized basis, divided by total shareholders' equity.

Market Outlook

"The outlook for motorhome chassis remains uncertain, though there are indications that many dealers have reduced inventory to razor-thin levels, as the industry is reporting retail sales for Class A motorhomes are three times more than wholesale levels. This situation may bolster demand once the industry begins its eventual recovery," said Sztykiel. "Nonetheless, the motorhome chassis market is expected to be challenging over the next two to three quarters, and we have adjusted our operations accordingly.

"As we recently announced, we continue to see a number of smaller orders for mine-blast protected vehicles, and have expanded the number of MRAP variants using our products to more than 20 types of specialized vehicles operated by both the U.S. military and other allied militaries. We have also seen a significant growth of our service, parts and accessories business for military vehicles. The U.S. military currently plans for MRAPs to serve in its vehicle fleet beyond 2025.

"For our emergency-rescue business, we expect stable and consistent growth. We are also seeing increased interest in several of our new product introductions aimed at this market. Municipal spending is always a concern in difficult economic times, but we are pleased the Federal government is increasing spending for fire-rescue. The Federal government renewed funding for the Assistance to Firefighters Grant program, increasing it modestly to $565 million for 2009. In the past, these grants have driven 10 to 15 percent of industry fire trucks sales, and we expect this funding will help many municipalities purchase new vehicles.

Sztykiel concluded: "We are taking proactive steps to control our cost structure where markets dictate, though we are also positioned to take advantage of our opportunities for growth. Though economic turmoil is a concern for everyone, we are very pleased with our 2008 results. Looking ahead to the next two to three quarters, conditions will be difficult for the best of companies. Our strong balance sheet, coupled with our core capabilities - innovation, speed to market, flexibility, and service and support - have us well positioned to adapt and grow through tough industry and macro-economic conditions. As a company, we have been through uncertain times before, such as in 1991 and 2001, and each time we emerged even stronger. I expect this time will be no different."

Conference Call&Webcast

Spartan Motors will host a conference call for analysts and portfolio managers at 10 a.m. ET today to discuss these results and current business trends. To listen to a live webcast of the call, please visit http://www.spartanmotors.com/, click on "Shareholders," and then on "Webcasts."

About Spartan Motors

Spartan Motors, Inc. (http://www.spartanmotors.com/) designs, engineers and manufactures custom chassis and vehicles for the recreational vehicle, fire truck, ambulance, emergency-rescue and specialty vehicle markets. The company's brand names - Spartan(TM), Crimson Fire(TM), Crimson Fire Aerials(TM), and Road Rescue(TM) - are known for quality, value, service and being the first to market with innovative products. The company employs approximately 1,400 at facilities in Michigan, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and South Dakota. Spartan reported sales of $681.9 million in 2007 and is focused on becoming the premier manufacturer of specialty vehicles and chassis in North America.

This release contains forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements concerning our business, future plans and objectives and the performance of our products. Forward looking statements are identifiable by words such as "believe," "anticipate," "will," "sustain," and "continue." These forward-looking statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that ultimately may not prove to be accurate. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Technical complications may arise that could prevent the prompt implementation of the plans outlined above. The company cautions that these forward-looking statements are further qualified by other factors including, but not limited to, those set forth in the company's Annual Report on Form 10- K filing and other filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (available at http://www.sec.gov/). Government contracts and subcontracts typically involve long payment and purchase cycles, competitive bidding, qualification requirements, delays or changes in funding, extensive specification development and changes, price negotiations and milestone requirements. An announced award of a governmental contract is not equivalent to a finalized executed contract and does not assure that orders will be issued and filled. Government agencies also often retain some portion of fees payable upon completion of a project and collection of contract fees may be delayed for long periods, which can negatively impact both prime contractors and subcontractors. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any statements in this release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

Spartan Motors, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
Three Months Ended September 30, 2008 and 2007

September 30, September 30,
2008 2007

$-000- % $-000- %

Sales 237,461 148,891
Cost of Products Sold 194,496 131,316
Gross Profit 42,965 18.1 17,575 11.8

Operating Expenses:
Research and Development 5,216 2.2 3,840 2.6
Selling, General and
Administrative 15,701 6.6 9,690 6.5
Total Operating Expenses 20,917 8.8 13,530 9.1

Operating Income 22,048 9.3 4,045 2.7

Other Income (Expense):
Interest Expense (642) (0.2) (235) (0.1)
Interest and Other Income 331 0.1 190 0.1
Total Other Income (Expense) (311) (0.1) (45) (0.0)

Earnings before Taxes on Income 21,737 9.2 4,000 2.7

Taxes on Income 7,081 3.0 1,430 1.0

Net Earnings 14,656 6.2 2,570 1.7


Basic Net Earnings per Share 0.46 0.08

Diluted Net Earnings per Share 0.45 0.08


Basic Weighted Average Common Shares
Outstanding 32,017 32,200

Diluted Weighted Average Common
Shares Outstanding 32,335 32,862



Spartan Motors, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2008 and 2007

September 30, September 30,
2008 2007
$-000- % $-000- %

Sales 698,076 444,356
Cost of Products Sold 580,733 378,077
Gross Profit 117,343 16.8 66,279 14.9

Operating Expenses:
Research and Development 14,646 2.1 11,326 2.5
Selling, General and
Administrative 41,127 5.9 28,841 6.5
Total Operating Expenses 55,773 8.0 40,167 9.0

Operating Income 61,570 8.8 26,112 5.9

Other Income (Expense):
Interest Expense (1,811) (0.3) (918) (0.2)
Interest and Other Income 623 0.1 520 0.1
Total Other Income (Expense) (1,188) (0.2) (398) (0.1)

Earnings before Taxes on Income 60,382 8.6 25,714 5.8

Taxes on Income 20,530 2.9 9,421 2.1

Net Earnings 39,852 5.7 16,293 3.7

Basic Net Earnings per Share 1.25 0.51

Diluted Net Earnings per Share 1.22 0.50

Basic Weighted Average Common Shares
Outstanding 31,982 31,927

Diluted Weighted Average Common
Shares Outstanding 32,510 32,582



Spartan Motors, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

September 30, December 31,
2008 2007
$-000- $-000-

ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $6,854 $13,527
Accounts receivable, net 152,305 132,907
Inventories 102,090 103,076
Deferred income tax assets 6,925 6,925
Other current assets 2,318 1,978
Total current assets 270,492 258,413

Property, plant and equipment, net 66,226 56,673
Goodwill 2,457 2,457
Deferred income tax assets 775 775
Other assets 208 346
Total assets $340,158 $318,664

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS'
EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $53,372 $90,769
Accrued warranty 9,687 10,824
Accrued compensation and
related taxes 15,848 10,431
Accrued vacation 1,918 1,758
Accrued customer rebates 2,176 1,963
Deposits from customers 6,905 5,540
Taxes on income 665 551
Other current liabilities and
accrued expenses 4,178 3,367
Current portion of long-term debt 524 522
Total current liabilities 95,273 125,725

Other non-current liabilities 1,069 1,025
Long-term debt, less current portion 74,302 62,696

Shareholders' equity:
Common stock 327 324
Additional paid in capital 64,706 62,648
Retained earnings 104,481 66,246
Total shareholders' equity 169,514 129,218

Total liabilities and
shareholders' equity $340,158 $318,664



Spartan Motors, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Sales and Other Financial Information by Business Segment
Quarter and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2008

Three Months Ended September 30, 2008 (amounts in thousands of dollars)

Business Segments
Chassis EVTeam Other Consolidated

Motorhome Chassis Sales 15,800 15,800
Fire Truck Chassis Sales 33,664 (9,181) 24,483
EVTeam Product Sales 22,400 22,400
Other Product Sales 174,778 174,778

Total Net Sales 224,242 22,400 (9,181) 237,461

Interest Expense 3 390 249 642
Depreciation Expense 758 291 509 1,558
Segment Net Earnings (Loss) 17,771 (636) (2,479) 14,656


Nine Months Ended September 30, 2008 (amounts in thousands of dollars)

Business Segments
Chassis EVTeam Other Consolidated

Motorhome Chassis Sales 84,151 84,151
Fire Truck Chassis Sales 89,028 (20,889) 68,139
EVTeam Product Sales 68,659 68,659
Other Product Sales 477,127 477,127

Total Net Sales 650,306 68,659 (20,889) 698,076

Interest Expense 16 1,160 635 1,811
Depreciation Expense 1,996 869 1,429 4,294
Segment Net Earnings (Loss) 46,848 (1,786) (5,210) 39,852


Period End Backlog (amounts in thousands of dollars)

Sept.30, Dec. 31, March 31, June 30, Sept. 30,
2007 2007 2008 2008 2008

Motorhome Chassis * 26,097 27,312 17,465 12,533 9,069
Fire Truck Chassis * 67,071 60,374 70,720 75,931 70,815
Other Product * 228,803 199,362 166,457 188,665 46,038
Total Chassis 321,971 287,048 254,642 277,129 125,922
EVTeam Product * 61,178 51,316 49,975 43,094 57,850

Total Backlog 383,149 338,364 304,617 320,223 183,772

* Anticipated time to fill backlog orders; 2 months or less for motorhome
chassis and 10 months or less for fire truck chassis, other product and
EVTeam product

[coolrunning]

23.10.2008 13:47
Spartan Motors Announces Second Regular Cash Dividend Payment for 2008
CHARLOTTE, Mich., Oct. 23 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Spartan Motors, (News) Inc. today announced its regular dividend payment of $0.05 per common share, payable on Dec. 17, 2008 to shareholders of record at the close of business on Nov. 17, 2008.

In April 2008, the board of directors for the Charlotte, Mich.-based manufacturer of custom chassis and emergency-rescue vehicles declared total regular cash dividends of $0.10 per share of common stock for the year, issued in two payments. The company issued the first dividend payment of $0.05 per share on June 16, 2008. Spartan expects to consider a special dividend at the board meeting scheduled for February 2009.

"We continue to believe a dividend is a great way to share profits with our investors," said John Sztykiel, president and chief executive officer of Spartan Motors. "Our 2008 results have already exceeded all of 2007, and dividends confirm our long-term confidence in Spartan, as well as our financial strength."

[pagitz01]

so ich bin mal letzte woche zu 100 prozent in sparta rein...

also nach diesen zahlen ein min.2bagger!!!

also jetzt warten wir mal ab was da passiert..

[pagitz01]

einfach geil im moment!!!

wie gesagt es wird sicher rücksetzer geben aber das ziel is 9 usd denke bis feber locker möglich!!!

[coolrunning]

Ja, ich freue mich auch, ein schöner rebound

[pagitz01]

ein plus und das an so einen tag!!!


spartan wiel einfach nach oben zu seinen wahren wert die frag is wo liegt der?????

bei der anzahl an aktien denn umsatz fürs jahr und denn gewinn

sehe ich eine mkp von 500-700 mio als okay z.zt das wäre ein kurs von ca.20 usd okay sagen wir es stimmt nur die hälfte also mit 10 usd bin ich auch sehr zufrieden!!

[pagitz01]

thja solche tage bleiben nicht aus,heute bekommen wir eins drauf aber noch is alles im grünen bereich...

[coolrunning]

19.11.2008 15:18
U.S. Military and BAE Systems Recognize Spartan Chassis' Workforce at Special Ceremony
CHARLOTTE, Mich., Nov. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- Senior U.S. military officials and executives from major defense contractor BAE Systems (News) are recognizing Spartan Chassis (News) employees today for their critical role in the rapid production and deployment of BAE Systems' RG33 MRAP vehicles, a key military program credited with saving hundreds of lives from the dangers of roadside bombs.

Spartan Chassis, a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, Inc. , is hosting a special ceremony to mark the employees' contributions at the company's headquarters in Charlotte, Mich. Officials from the U.S. Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) Joint Program Office will present a plaque to more than 300 Spartan workers for their vital role in engineering, manufacturing and servicing the MRAP vehicles.

"Spartan Chassis has helped produce more mine-resistant vehicles than any other U.S. manufacturing facility, and we are proud of the vital role our team has played in getting these lifesaving vehicles to our soldiers and Marines within an extraordinarily short timeframe," said John Sztykiel, president and CEO of Spartan Motors. "A significant factor in our success has been the hard work, dedication and specialized skills of our workforce."

What: BAE Systems RG33 Workforce Recognition Ceremony
When: Wednesday, Nov. 19 at 1:00 p.m.
Where: Plant 6, Spartan Chassis in Charlotte, Mich.
1065 Mikesell Street, Charlotte, Mich.
Media Attendance: Contact Ryan McGrath at 616-233-0500


"The RG33 represents an unprecedented story of success that reflects industry's unsurpassed rapid response to the Department of Defense's immediate requirement to defeat an ever evolving threat," said Matt Riddle, Vice President of Wheeled Combat Vehicles at BAE Systems. "From design to fielding in less than six months, the RG33 has proven itself worthy in combat and has well earned the respect and accolades of its U.S. military crewman."

MRAPs are a family of military vehicles designed to survive IED (improvised explosive device) attacks, the cause of 60 percent of all U.S. casualties in Iraq. MRAP vehicles feature innovative, V-shaped hulls that deflect explosive forces originating below the vehicle -- a notorious point of weakness for non-MRAP military vehicles, such as Humvees. According to government sources, MRAPs have the highest survivability of all vehicles deployed in combat, including tanks.

Since 2005, Spartan Chassis has served as a military subcontractor of choice, providing specialty chassis, vehicle interiors, comprehensive automotive integration, assembly, parts and service for the nation's primary MRAP manufacturers, including BAE Systems, Force Protection and General Dynamics Land Systems. Spartan currently supplies more than 20 different threat-specific, mine-protected vehicle variants, including specialized configurations of MRAP, such as those customized for ambulance duties, ordnance removal or transporting Special Operations troops.

Spartan has invested approximately $16 million in facilities and equipment for its military production work since 2005. Spartan has also shared its military-related work with 100 Michigan-based companies, spending $148.4 million with those companies in 2007 alone and helping to employ 6,400 Michigan workers.

[pagitz01]

also z.zt sind wir mit 80 mio usd bewertet das grenzt ja schon an wahnsinn!!!

per gelgeneit kaufe ich nochmal nach was solls muss ja mal aufwärts gehen !!


echt der hammer was abläuft im moment!!

[pagitz01]

Antwort auf Beitrag Nr.: 36.013.853 von pagitz01 am 20.11.08 11:39:31

so jetzt machen wir mal das down gap bei 6,91 usd zu !!

[coolrunning]

So, jetzt läuft Spartan.....

Lassen wir sie laufen.... ... und geniessen....

[pagitz01]

denk ich auch!!!


erstes ziel 7usd!!

[coolrunning]

01.04.2009 15:34
Spartan Chassis, Inc. and Force Protection, Inc. Announce Service and Sustainment Partnership
Spartan Chassis, (News) a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, Inc. (NASDAQ: SPAR), and Force Protection, (News) Inc. (NASDAQ: FRPT), today jointly announced that they have entered into a Contractor Team Arrangement and will combine service capabilities and infrastructure to more effectively support future customer needs related to spare parts and sustainment for Force Protection’s fleet of Cougar vehicles. The two companies noted that each would commit key staff, facilities and information systems to speed response capability on critical programs.

John Sztykiel, president and CEO of Spartan Motors, said: ”We are proud of our partnership with Force Protection in rapidly delivering key components for over 3,000 Cougar vehicles under the MRAP program. This new work structure will strengthen that relationship, create enhanced capabilities for the customer, and ensure that the service, upgrades, and spares parts this fleet of vehicles will need throughout its lifecycle are delivered and executed with excellence.”

Michael Moody, Chairman and CEO of Force Protection, Inc., commented: ”It is a strategic priority for our Company to build the relationships and partnerships that provide the highest possible level of customer experience. Over the course of the MRAP program, Spartan has been a key partner, met difficult production requirements in short spaces of time, and executed with excellence. We are very pleased to formalize our relationship, further enhance our combined capabilities and position ourselves to capture the increasing need for service and support work.”

About Spartan Chassis, Inc.

Spartan Chassis, Inc., a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, Inc. (NASDAQ: SPAR), is a leading developer and manufacturer of custom chassis for recreational vehicles, fire trucks, defense and specialty vehicles. Spartan Motors (www.spartanmotors.com) which also manufactures emergency rescue vehicles under the brand names of Crimson Fire, Crimson Fire Aerials and Road Rescue, reported sales of $844.4 million in 2008 and is focused on becoming the premier manufacturer of specialty vehicles and chassis in North America.

About Force Protection, Inc.

Force Protection, Inc. is a leading American designer, developer and manufacturer of life saving survivability equipment, predominantly ballistic- and blast-protected wheeled vehicles currently deployed by the U.S. military and its allies to support armed forces and security personnel in conflict zones. Force Protection’s specialty vehicles, the Cougar, Buffalo, and Cheetah, are designed specifically for reconnaissance, forward command and control, and urban operations and to protect their occupants from landmines, hostile fire, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs, commonly referred to as roadside bombs). Force Protection is one of the original developers and primary providers of vehicles for the U.S. military’s Mine Resistant Ambush Protected, or MRAP, vehicle program.

For more information on Force Protection and its vehicles, visit www.forceprotection.net.

[coolrunning]

Innerhalb von 6 Monaten zweimal 100 % plus !

Wenn man gut getradet hätte.... würde man schon um einiges reicher sein.

Mal sehen wo Spartan noch hinmarschiert....

[coolrunning]

Divi

http://www.finanznachrichten.de/nachrichten-2009-04/13591572…

[coolrunning]

http://www.finanznachrichten.de/nachrichten-2009-04/13634753…

[coolrunning]

Bin ich hier der Einzigste, der gutes Geld verdient ????

Was hier seit 2 Monaten abgeht, interessiert wohl niemanden...

http://aktien.onvista.de/charts.html?ID_OSI=89982&MONTHS=3&I…

[coolrunning]

Es ist die wahre Freude...


Es wundert mich weiterhin, das die Aktie scheinbar niemanden interessiert.

Wer zu spät kommt, den bestraft das Leben....

[coolrunning]

24.04.2009 14:31
Spartan Motors Adds International Manufacturing Expert Ron Harbour to Board of Directors
CHARLOTTE, Mich., April 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Spartan Motors, (News) Inc. today announced the election of Ron Harbour, noted manufacturing analyst and a partner at international consulting firm Oliver Wyman, to the Company's board of directors. Harbour will serve as an independent director.

The Charlotte, Mich.-based manufacturer of custom chassis and emergency-rescue vehicles said the addition of Harbour increases the size of the Spartan Motors board from eight to nine directors.

"Ron is a recognized authority on manufacturing processes and has worked with top manufacturing companies around the world in driving systematic changes in their production," said David R. Wilson, Chairman of the Board of Spartan Motors. "For years he has published the prestigious 'Harbour Report,' which is often referred to as the 'Bible' of manufacturing productivity. He personally visits more than 50 automotive plants every year in North and South America, and Europe and Asia to document best practices. As we move to become a more globally focused company, Ron's wisdom and experience will serve us well."

Harbour was the former owner and president of Harbour Consulting, acquired by Oliver Wyman in 2007. Harbour is an expert in the assessment, development and implementation of quality, cost and productivity improvements at factories worldwide. He also has experience in new vehicle development, metal fabrication and manufacturing strategy and design.

[coolrunning]

28.04.2009 13:32
Spartan Motors Reports First Quarter Results
CHARLOTTE, Mich., April 28 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Spartan Motors, Inc. reported its first quarter operating results, highlighted by increased sales and orders for its emergency rescue products in difficult economic conditions.

For the first quarter ended March 31, 2009, Spartan reported:
-- Net earnings of $0.19 per diluted share
-- Net sales of $115.5 million
-- Gross margin of 22.6% of sales
-- Return on invested capital of 14.0%

-- Consolidated backlog of $217.5 million


First Quarter Results
Spartan reported first quarter net earnings of $6.1 million, or $0.19 per diluted share, on net sales of $115.5 million, compared with net earnings of $14.8 million, or $0.46 per diluted share, on net sales of $264.1 million in the same quarter of 2008. The decline in revenue is a result of lower sales of vehicles to the defense industry and a sharp decline in the RV market.

Spartan reported consolidated gross margin of 22.6 percent of sales in the first quarter of 2009, a 46.8 percent increase over the same period in 2008 and a 7.1 percent increase over its gross margin in the fourth quarter of 2008. Spartan attributed the gross margin increase to improved product mix that includes more sales related to service, parts and assemblies. Gross margins as a percentage of sales have consistently risen for four quarters in a row, a result of the company's adherence to lean initiatives across its subsidiary companies and product mix diversification.

"The first quarter was another representation of how our diversified multiple-market strategy, along with our market, operational and strategic agility, will enable Spartan to profitably weather tough economic conditions while positioning the company for future growth," said John Sztykiel, president and CEO of Spartan Motors. "From a consolidated perspective, the recreational vehicle business continues to be difficult and the next large-scale mine-protected defense vehicle ramp-up is still several months away. Yet, sales of fire truck chassis increased year-over-year, the EVTeam as a whole was profitable in the quarter and consolidated gross margin as a percentage of sales continues to increase. Emergency-rescue remains Spartan's largest, most stable market, and we expect continuous growth based on increased market share and new product and innovation initiatives."

Spartan Chassis

Sales at Spartan Chassis, (News) the company's largest subsidiary and operating unit, decreased 60.0 percent year-over year to $98.2 million for the current quarter. Spartan Chassis represented 85.0 percent of Spartan Motors' total consolidated sales in the 2009 first quarter.

Spartan Chassis' net earnings declined 59.8 percent year-over-year in the quarter, due primarily to the decline in sales.

Sales of fire truck chassis in the 2009 first quarter increased 11.8 percent compared to the same period in 2008, and backlog for fire truck chassis as of March 31, 2009 was $98.0 million, a 38.6 percent year-over-year increase. The company reported increased demand for fire truck chassis, due in part to increased demand from changes to industry safety regulations and the 2010 engine emission standards.

Spartan Chassis' sales to the Class A diesel motorhome market decreased 91.7 percent year-over-year in the quarter, while backlog for RV chassis decreased 75.0 percent year-over-year to $4.4 million as of March 31, 2009.

"As expected, the outlook for motorhomes remains difficult," said Sztykiel. "We already have appropriately scaled our operations to match demand in the second half of 2009. We believe we have positioned ourselves to weather the storm until the industry eventually recovers. Spartan is continuing new product development and engineering innovations for motorhome chassis, some of which we plan to debut at the RVIA trade show later in 2009."

Other Products sales, including specialty chassis for mine-resistant defense vehicles, and the company's service, parts and assemblies (SPA) business, decreased 65.2 percent year-over-year in the first quarter of 2009, reflecting the completion of several large orders for military customers in the second half of 2008. Other Products backlog, which for the first time includes backlog for SPA of $47.8 million, was $55.8 million as of March 31, 2009, compared to $166.5 million at the end of the 2008 first quarter, and compared to $8.5 million at the end of the 2008 fourth quarter.

Emergency Vehicle Team (EVTeam)

Spartan's EVTeam operating unit, consisting of its Crimson Fire, Crimson Fire Aerials and Road Rescue subsidiaries, reported operating income of $395 thousand in the 2009 first quarter, compared to an operating loss of $365 thousand in the same quarter of 2008. Spartan attributed the profitability of the EVTeam as a whole to improved operating efficiencies within the subsidiaries. Backlog for the EVTeam was $83.3 million as of March 31, 2009, a 35.3 percent year-over-year increase.

Financial Position

Spartan reported positive operating cash flow of $15.1 million in the current quarter and the company ended the first quarter with $27.2 million in cash and cash equivalents, as well as $16.4 million in long-term debt.

Spartan reported it has repurchased 140,738 shares of its common stock in the open market since January 2009, reflecting the company's belief that the stock is undervalued. The company completed the recent share buyback at an average price of $3.09 per share. This repurchase is the first under the board-authorized one million-share buyback program announced in July 2008.

"Our cash generation gives us the flexibility to pursue multiple avenues to create shareholder value, such as investing in the business, buying back stock or evaluating strategic opportunities," said Chief Financial Officer Jim Knapp. "The board believes our share price is trading at a discount in relation to our long-term earnings potential, balance sheet strength and diversified product and end-market mix."

On a consolidated basis, Spartan posted a return on invested capital (ROIC) of 14.0 percent in the first quarter of 2009, compared to ROIC of 42.6 percent for the same quarter in 2008, and 7.2 percent in the fourth quarter of 2008. Spartan defines return on invested capital as operating income less taxes, on an annualized basis, divided by total shareholders' equity.

Market Outlook

In line with management's previously communicated outlook, Spartan reported it continues to expect its consolidated 2009 results to be less than 2008 because of market and macro-economic conditions, as well as a reduction in specialty vehicle sales, primarily related to large-scale defense contracts. However, Spartan reiterated that the potential for significant orders from the defense industry remains.

"Our order intake for emergency rescue products increased in the 2009 first quarter, due largely to the influx of orders received by OEMs in the 2008 fourth quarter, which was driven by changes to industry safety regulations," said Sztykiel. "Longer term, there are trends that indicate steadily increasing demand for emergency-rescue products, regardless of the economic conditions, and we are investing in R&D and unveiling new products to address this long-term demand.

"The Pentagon has indicated it plans to order between 2,000 and 10,000 of M-ATV vehicles starting later this year, though we don't expect clarity on specific orders until May or June. We believe Spartan's production capacity will be an asset for any future production runs of M-ATVs, as well as our proven capabilities in speed-to-market, manufacturing flexibility, on-time delivery, product performance and service, parts and support. We continue to produce smaller orders of specialized mine-resistant variants for the U.S. military and other nations, such as the ILAV vehicles.

"We expect to enter several new strategic markets over the next 18 months. In closing, we will not just weather 2009, but this year will position us for future growth into 2010 and beyond," Sztykiel concluded.

Conference Call&Webcast

Spartan Motors will host a conference call for analysts and portfolio managers at 10 a.m. ET today to discuss these results and current business trends. To listen to a live webcast of the call, please visit http://www.spartanmotors.com/," target="_blank" rel="nofollow ugc noopener">http://www.spartanmotors.com/, click on "Shareholders," and then on "Webcasts."

About Spartan Motors

Spartan Motors, Inc. (http://www.spartanmotors.com/)" target="_blank" rel="nofollow ugc noopener">http://www.spartanmotors.com/) designs, engineers and manufactures custom chassis and vehicles for the recreational vehicle, fire truck, ambulance, emergency-rescue and specialty vehicle markets. The company's brand names - Spartan(TM), Crimson Fire(TM), Crimson Fire Aerials(TM), and Road Rescue(TM) - are known for quality, value, service and being the first to market with innovative products. The company employs approximately 1,200 at facilities in Michigan, Pennsylvania, South Carolina and South Dakota. Spartan reported sales of $844.4 million in 2008 and is focused on becoming the premier manufacturer of specialty vehicles and chassis in North America.

This release contains forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements concerning our business, future plans and objectives and the performance of our products. Forward looking statements are identifiable by words such as "believe," "anticipate," "will," "sustain," and "continue." These forward-looking statements involve certain risks and uncertainties that ultimately may not prove to be accurate. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Technical complications may arise that could prevent the prompt implementation of the plans outlined above. The company cautions that these forward-looking statements are further qualified by other factors including, but not limited to, those set forth in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K filing and other filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (available at http://www.sec.gov/). Government contracts and subcontracts typically involve long payment and purchase cycles, competitive bidding, qualification requirements, delays or changes in funding, extensive specification development and changes, price negotiations and milestone requirements. An announced award of a governmental contract is not equivalent to a finalized executed contract and does not assure that orders will be issued and filled. Government agencies also often retain some portion of fees payable upon completion of a project and collection of contract fees may be delayed for long periods, which can negatively impact both prime contractors and subcontractors. The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any statements in this release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

Spartan Motors, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

March 31, 2009 December 31, 2008
$-000- $-000-

ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $27,224 $13,741
Accounts receivable, net 71,376 75,935
Inventories 89,495 86,648
Deferred income tax assets 7,076 7,076
Deposits on engines 5,457 5,457
Other current assets 2,506 2,606
Total current assets 203,134 191,463

Property, plant and equipment, net 65,780 66,786
Goodwill 2,457 2,457
Deferred income tax assets 241 241
Other assets 1,160 193
Total assets $272,772 $261,140

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $32,201 $21,776
Accrued warranty 7,463 8,352
Accrued compensation and related taxes 6,534 12,136
Accrued vacation 2,135 1,904
Accrued customer rebates 1,244 1,498
Deposits from customers 11,275 9,922
Taxes on income 2,051 1,972
Other current liabilities
and accrued expenses 4,181 4,584
Current portion of long-term debt 10,518 10,640
Total current liabilities 77,602 72,784

Other non-current liabilities 2,192 1,157
Long-term debt, less current portion 16,426 16,556

Shareholders' equity:
Common stock 325 326
Additional paid in capital 64,613 64,606
Retained earnings 111,614 105,711
Total shareholders' equity 176,552 170,643

Total liabilities and shareholders' equity $272,772 $261,140



Spartan Motors, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income
Three Months Ended March 31, 2009 and 2008

March 31, 2009 March 31, 2008
$-000- % $-000- %

Sales 115,498 264,095
Cost of Products Sold 89,376 223,465
Gross Profit 26,122 22.6 40,630 15.4

Operating Expenses:
Research and Development 4,760 4.1 4,688 1.8
Selling, General and
Administrative 12,008 10.4 12,540 4.7
Total Operating Expenses 16,768 14.5 17,228 6.5

Operating Income 9,354 8.1 23,402 8.9

Other Income (Expense):
Interest Expense (325) (0.3) (732) (0.3)
Interest and Other Income 216 0.2 93 (0.0)
Total Other Income (Expense) (109) (0.1) (639) (0.3)

Earnings before Taxes on
Income 9,245 8.0 22,763 8.6

Taxes on Income 3,186 2.8 7,982 3.0

Net Earnings 6,059 5.2 14,781 5.6


Basic Net Earnings per Share 0.19 0.46

Diluted Net Earnings per Share 0.19 0.46

Basic Weighted Average
Common Shares Outstanding 32,225 31,933

Diluted Weighted Average
Common Shares Outstanding 32,293 32,292



Spartan Motors, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Sales and Other Financial Information by Business Segment
Three Months Ended March 31, 2009

Three Months Ended March 31, 2009 ($000s)

Business Segments
Chassis EVTeam Other Consolidated

Fire Truck Chassis Sales 33,249 (4,182) 29,067
Motorhome Chassis Sales 3,172 3,172
EVTeam Product Sales 23,501 (1,971) 21,530
Other Product Sales 61,729 61,729
Total Net Sales 98,150 23,501 (6,153) 115,498
Interest Expense 443 (118) 325
Depreciation Expense 987 213 601 1,801
Segment Net Earnings (Loss) 6,698 56 (695) 6,059



Period End Backlog ($000s)

March 31, June 30, September 30, December 31, March 31,
2008 2008 2008 2008 2009

Fire Truck
Chassis* 70,720 75,931 70,815 73,473 98,025
Motorhome
Chassis* 17,465 12,533 9,069 5,552 4,365
Other
Product* 166,457 188,665 46,038 8,500 55,827
Total
Chassis 254,642 277,129 125,922 87,525 158,217
EVTeam
Product* 61,615 59,801 73,056 96,383 83,344
Intercompany
Elimina-
tions* (11,640) (16,707) (15,206) (14,009) (24,050)
Total
Backlog 304,617 320,223 183,772 169,899 217,511

* Anticipated time to fill backlog orders; 2 months or less for
motorhome chassis and 10 months or less for fire truck chassis, other
product and EVTeam product. Service, parts and accessories were
included in the backlog beginning March 31, 2009.
Spartan Motors, Inc.

CONTACT: John Sztykiel, CEO, or Jim Knapp, CFO, both of Spartan Motors,
Inc., [phone]; or Jeff Lambert or Ryan McGrath,
[e-mail], both of Lambert, Edwards&Associates, Inc.,
[phone]

Web Site: http://www.spartanmotors.com/

[coolrunning]

http://seekingalpha.com/article/133743-spartan-motors-q1-200…

[coolrunning]

Herrlich - ein Juwel


2009 wird mit diesem Block sehr renditeträchtig

[coolrunning]

300 % im Plus

Und es hört nicht auf....

[coolrunning]

Streiche ich hier eigentlich als Einziger die Gewinne ein ???

05.06.2009 17:06
Spartan Motors Launches New Roadcast 'Virtual Roadshow' for Investors
CHARLOTTE, Mich., June 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Spartan Motors, Inc. launched a new "digital roadshow" this week to present the company's growth story in a comprehensive, user-friendly format.

Spartan teamed with Roadcast Group (http://www.roadcastgroup.com/) to produce its life-like, online video investor presentation, or Roadcast(TM). This virtual tour provides an interactive and easy-to-navigate presentation of the Spartan story for investors and other stakeholders.

To launch the Spartan Motors Roadcast, please visit http://www.spartanmotors.com/ on the web and look for the "Virtual Road Show" link on the right side of the page.

"Our new Roadcast presentation is intended to provide stakeholders with a beyond-marketing perspective of Spartan Motors," said John Sztykiel, president and CEO of Spartan Motors. "The presentation provides insight into who we are in today's marketplace, where we're going, how we intend to get there, the competitive landscape of each of our lines of business and an inside look at our facilities, processes and people. In addition, portions of the Spartan Roadcast presentation will be updated quarterly to ensure the most current information is available. We encourage all of Spartan's stakeholders - from our associates to investors to customers - to view our Roadcast presentation and learn more about how Spartan is transforming the world through specialty vehicles."

Spartan's Roadcast utilizes video of CEO John Sztykiel and CFO Jim Knapp to tell the Spartan story and allows users to interact and "click through" to different sections of the online presentation using a menu-driven format. The Roadcast covers the company background, products, strategy, key markets and financial information, along with additional content about Spartan's corporate culture and operations.

[coolrunning]

Es bleibt dabei - sie steigt und steigt....


24.06.2009 17:45
Spartan Motors Expands Leadership Team, Names Tom Gorman as Chief Operating Officer
CHARLOTTE, Mich., June 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Spartan Motors, Inc. today announced it has named automotive industry executive Tom Gorman to the newly created position of chief operating officer. Gorman will oversee Spartan's current four business units in addition to implementing strategic growth initiatives.

Spartan Motors, the leading manufacturer of custom chassis and emergency-rescue vehicles, reported Gorman is responsible for increasing productivity, improving overall business operations and helping Spartan strengthen its position in its market segments. In his new role, Gorman will also work closely with other members of the leadership team to execute the company's strategy, including lean operations implementation, global expansion, and new market entries through product development and strategic acquisitions.

Gorman brings 26 years of management, operations and manufacturing expertise to the position, including extensive experience in sales, engineering, lean manufacturing, product launches and mergers and acquisitions integration. Gorman was previously president of business development and engineering at Southfield, Mich.-based Fluid Routing Solutions.

"We are very pleased to welcome Tom to our senior management team with his proven track record of success in profitably managing multiple strategic business units and facilities, both domestically and internationally," said John Sztykiel, president and chief executive officer of Spartan Motors. "Tom brings tremendous experience and knowledge to our management team and much needed depth. He understands the process of delivering highly engineered niche products using lean manufacturing principles and built exactly to customer specifications, and this background will be invaluable as we strive to transform existing and new market niches from commercial to custom."

During his time at Fluid Routing Solutions, Gorman managed sales, operations and engineering across four divisions. Previously, he served as president and COO of North American operations for ZF Lemforder Corporation, where he was responsible for nine manufacturing and assembly plants. Gorman also spent over 17 years at automotive and systems components maker Dana Corporation, rising to business development director of the modules and systems division.

"I am excited to join Spartan Motors and lend both my operations and management experience and outside perspective to the leadership team," said Gorman. "The unique balance of Spartan's track record as a strong publicly traded company with its entrepreneurial spirit and tremendous opportunity for growth is inspiring, and I look forward to bringing best practices across the business units for the benefit of our customers, partners and other stakeholders."

Gorman earned a master of business administration degree from the University of Michigan and a bachelor's degree from the University of Detroit.

[kyron7htx]

Lange nichts mehr von Dir gehört coolrunning. Liegt sicherlich am 30.06.2009