•
Mar 31, 2020

Forward Air Q1 2020 Earnings Report

Reported record revenue for the first quarter, but income was impacted by COVID-19.

Key Takeaways

Forward Air Corporation reported a 6.5% increase in revenue for the three months ended March 31, 2020, reaching $342.5 million compared to $321.5 million in the same period in 2019. However, income from operations decreased to $11.7 million from $24.7 million, and net income declined to $8.4 million from $18.4 million in the prior year period, impacted by COVID-19.

First quarter revenue increased by 6.5% year-over-year, reaching a record $342.5 million.

Income from operations decreased to $11.7 million, compared to $24.7 million in the same period last year.

Net income was $8.4 million, a decrease from $18.4 million in the prior year period.

The company is enhancing liquidity and cost-control measures in response to COVID-19 impacts.

Total Revenue
$343M
Previous year: $321M
+6.5%
EPS
$0.3
Previous year: $0.64
-53.1%
Gross Profit
$56.2M
Previous year: $65.5M
-14.2%
Cash and Equivalents
$77.2M
Previous year: $42.2M
+83.2%
Free Cash Flow
$26.7M
Previous year: $37.4M
-28.6%
Total Assets
$1.07B
Previous year: $886M
+20.4%

Forward Air

Forward Air

Forward Air Revenue by Segment

Forward Guidance

Due to the uncertainty created by COVID-19, Forward Air is suspending quarterly guidance, but expects to remain free cash flow positive throughout 2020 and has taken significant steps to enhance financial flexibility.

Positive Outlook

  • Expect to remain free cash flow positive throughout 2020.
  • Increased cash balance of $104 million as of April 29th.
  • $75 million of new availability on committed credit line.
  • Total liquidity position of $179 million.
  • Evaluating strategic options for Pool Distribution.

Challenges Ahead

  • COVID-19 has impacted all modes due to exposure to non-essential freight.
  • Volumes fell sharply in March and April.
  • Visibility is limited.
  • Cost reduction impacts will be more fully realized in the second quarter.
  • Suspended quarterly guidance.

Revenue & Expenses

Visualization of income flow from segment revenue to net income