Although the financial reports are not yet available, Chairman and CEO Michael D. Lockhart said that fourth quarter 2000 performance was negatively impacted by a decline in sales and profits, as a result of the continued slowdown in the economy, and higher raw material and energy costs.
For 2001, Lockhart said he expected economic conditions not to improve and that company revenues will be relatively flat compared to 2000. He also said that operating income, excluding the effects of asbestos and reorganization charges, is expected to decline from 2000 levels.