Astec Industries, Inc. (Nasdaq:  ASTE) on Tuesday reported results for their second quarter ended June 30, 2012.  Net sales for the second quarter of 2012 were $253.9 million compared to $247.8 million for the second quarter of 2011, a 2% increase.  Earnings for the second quarter of 2012 were $10.4 million or $0.45 per diluted share compared to earnings for the second quarter of 2011 of $14.1 million or $0.61 per diluted share, a decrease of $0.16 or 26% per diluted share. 

Domestic sales increased 16% to $161.5 million for the second quarter of 2012 compared to $139.5 million for the second quarter of 2011.  International sales were $92.4 million for the second quarter of 2012 compared to $108.3 million for the second quarter of 2011, a 15% decrease.

Net sales for the first half of 2012 were $520.5 million compared to $477.9 million for the first half of 2011, a 9% increase.  Earnings for the first half of 2012 were $22.6 million or $0.98 per diluted share compared to earnings for the first half of 2011 of $24.2 million or $1.06 per diluted share, a decrease of $0.08 or 8% per diluted share. 

Domestic sales increased 13% to $322.9 million for the first half of 2012 compared to $287.0 million for the first half of 2011.  International sales were $197.6 million for the first half of 2012 compared to $190.9 million for the first half of 2011, a 3% increase.

The Company's domestic backlog increased 44%, from $103.0 million at June 30, 2011 to $148.7 million at June 30, 2012.  The international backlog at June 30, 2012 was $109.6 million, a 19% decrease from the June 30, 2011 international backlog of $134.5 million.  Total backlog increased 9% to $258.3 million from $237.5 million at June 30, 2012 and 2011, respectively.  2011 backlog amounts have been restated to reflect acquisitions made late in 2011.  

Consolidated financial information for the quarter and six months ended June 30, 2012 and additional information related to segment revenues and profits are attached as addenda to this press release.

Commenting on the announcement, Dr. J. Don Brock, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, stated, "During the second quarter, domestic sales were higher overall but we saw significant declines in domestic sales in the Asphalt and Mobile Asphalt Paving groups.  The series of 90-day highway bill continuations that lasted through the second quarter created funding uncertainties at state transportation departments.  This resulted in delays in, and in some cases the elimination of, projects during the peak road construction season.  Our international sales were hurt by a stronger dollar and uncertainty in the global economy.  Although we don't expect to overcome this shortfall this year, the new 27-month highway bill should help demand return to a more normalized level during the second half of the year." 

Dr. Brock continued, "In spite of the uncertainty that exists in the global economy, we continue to develop new products and explore new applications for existing products, all with an eye toward diversification.  We continue to look for acquisitions that fit our strategic goals and help us make our customers successful."

Investor Conference Call and Web Simulcast

Astec will conduct a conference call on July 24, at 10 a.m. ET to review its June 30, results as well as current business conditions.  The number to call for this interactive teleconference is 877 407-9210.  International callers should dial 201 689-8049.   Please reference Astec Industries.

The company will also provide an online Web simulcast and rebroadcast of the conference call.  The live broadcast of Astec's conference call will be available online at the Company's website:  www.astecindustries.com/conferencecalls. An archived webcast will be available for 90 days at www.astecindustries.com.

A replay of the conference call will be available through midnight on Tuesday, Aug. 7, by dialing 877 660-6853, or 201 612-7415 for international callers, Account #286, Conference ID# 397799.  A transcription of the conference call will be made available under the Investor Relations section of the Astec Industries, Inc. website within five business days after the call.