Item 1A. Risk Factors.
Arcosa's business, liquidity and financial condition, results of operations, and stock price may be impacted by a number of factors. In addition to the factors discussed elsewhere in this report, the following risks and uncertainties could materially harm its business, liquidity and financial condition, results of operations, or stock price, including causing its actual results to differ materially from those projected in any forward-looking statements. The following list of material risk factors is not all-inclusive or necessarily in order of importance. Additional risks and uncertainties not presently known to Arcosa or that it currently deems immaterial also may materially adversely affect it in future periods.
Risks Related to our Business and Operations.
The seasonality of Arcosa's business and its susceptibility to severe and prolonged periods of adverse weather and other conditions could have a material adverse effect on us.
Demand for Arcosa's products in some markets is typically seasonal, with periods of snow or heavy rain negatively affecting construction activity. For example, sales of Arcosa's products are somewhat higher from spring through autumn when construction activity is greatest. Construction activity declines in these markets during the winter months in particular due to inclement weather, frozen ground, and fewer hours of daylight. Construction activity and Arcosa's ability to deliver products on time or at all to its customers can also be affected in any period by public holidays, vacation periods, and adverse seasonal weather conditions such as extreme temperature, hurricanes, severe storms, torrential rains and floods, low river levels, and similar events, any of which could reduce demand for Arcosa's products, push back existing orders to later dates or lead to cancellations.
Additionally, the seasonal nature of Arcosa's business has led to variation in Arcosa's quarterly results in the past and is expected to continue to do so in the future. This general seasonality of Arcosa's business and any severe or prolonged adverse weather conditions or other similar events could have a material adverse effect on Arcosa's business.
Delays in construction projects and any failure to manage Arcosa’s inventory could have a material adverse effect on us.
Many of Arcosa’s products are used in large-scale projects which generally require a significant amount of planning and preparation and which can be delayed and rescheduled for a number of reasons, including customer labor availability, difficulties in complying with environmental and other government regulations or obtaining permits, financing issues, changes in project priorities, additional time required to acquire rights-of-way or property rights, unanticipated soil conditions, or health-related shutdowns or other work stoppages. These delays may create unplanned downtime, increasing costs and inefficiencies in Arcosa’s operations, and increased levels of excess inventory.
Additionally, Arcosa maintains an inventory of certain products that meet standard specifications and are ultimately purchased by a variety of end users. Arcosa forecasts demand for these products to ensure that it keeps sufficient inventory levels of certain products that Arcosa expects to be in high demand and limits its inventory for which Arcosa does not expect much interest. However, Arcosa’s forecasts are not always accurate and unexpected changes in demand for these products, whether because of an unexpected delay, a change in preferences or otherwise, can lead to increased levels of excess inventory. Any delays in construction projects and Arcosa’s customers’ orders or any inability to manage Arcosa’s inventory could have a material adverse effect on Arcosa's business.
Arcosa operates in highly competitive industries. Arcosa may not be able to sustain its market positions, which may impact its financial results.
Arcosa faces intense competition in all geographic markets and each industry sector in which it operates. In addition to price, Arcosa faces competition with respect to product performance and technological innovation, substitution, quality, reliability of delivery, customer service, and other factors. If Arcosa is unable to successfully compete or if the cost of successfully competing is significant, the effects of such competition, which is often intense, could reduce Arcosa’s revenues and operating profits, limit Arcosa’s ability to grow, increase pricing pressure on Arcosa’s products, and otherwise affect Arcosa’s financial results.
Arcosa's inability to deliver its backlog on time could affect its revenues, future sales and profitability and its relationships with customers.
At December 31, 2023, Arcosa's backlog was approximately $1.4 billion within our Engineered Structures and $253.7 million within our Transportation Products segments. Arcosa's ability to meet customer delivery schedules for backlog is dependent on a number of factors including, but not limited to, sufficient manufacturing plant capacity, adequate supply channel access to raw materials and other inventory required for production, an adequately trained
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and capable workforce, engineering expertise, and appropriate planning and scheduling of manufacturing resources. We may also encounter capacity limitations due to changes in demand despite our forecasting efforts. Some of the contracts we enter into with our customers, such as for barges, traffic structures and wind towers, require long manufacturing lead times and contain penalty clauses or liquidated damages provisions related to late delivery. Failure to deliver in accordance with contract terms and customer expectations could subject us to financial penalties, damage existing customer relationships, increase our costs, reduce our sales and have a material adverse effect on Arcosa's business.
Arcosa depends on its key management employees, and Arcosa may not be able to retain their services in the future.
Arcosa’s success depends on the continued services of its executive team and key management employees, none of whom currently have an employment agreement with Arcosa. Arcosa may not be able to retain the services of its executives and key management in the future. The loss of the services of one or more executives or key members of Arcosa’s management team, or Arcosa’s inability to successfully develop talent for succession planning, could result in increased costs associated with attracting and retaining a replacement and could disrupt Arcosa’s operations and result in a loss of revenues.
The inability to hire and retain skilled or professional labor could adversely impact Arcosa’s operations.
Arcosa depends on professional labor across its businesses and skilled labor in the manufacture, maintenance, and repair of Arcosa’s products. Some of Arcosa’s facilities are located in areas where demand for skilled laborers, such as welders, complex machine operators, and equipment maintenance workers, may exceed supply. Arcosa competes for such personnel with other companies, including public and private company competitors who may periodically offer more favorable terms of employment. If Arcosa is unable to hire and retain these skilled laborers, Arcosa may be limited in its ability to maintain or increase production rates and costs to replace or retain skilled laborers may increase.
Failure to maintain safe work sites could result in losses, which could adversely affect our business and reputation.
Our operational sites include mining, processing and manufacturing facilities, where our employees and others are often in close proximity with mechanized equipment, moving vehicles, chemical substances, and dangerous manufacturing processes or natural conditions. Sites such as these are subject to potentially dangerous workplace risks. For example, Arcosa operates an underground limestone mine in Pennsylvania, which involves unique potential safety risks and hazards inherent to underground mining operations. Safety is a primary focus of our business and is critical to our reputation and performance. Unsafe work conditions, or any perceived failure to protect the health and safety of our employees, can also increase employee turnover, which increases our overall operating costs. If we fail to implement effective safety procedures, our employees and others could be injured, the completion of a project could be delayed, or we could be exposed to investigations and possible litigation, which may be significant. Our failure to maintain adequate safety standards through our safety programs could also result in reduced profitability or the loss of customers.
Some of Arcosa’s employees belong to labor unions and strikes or work stoppages could adversely affect Arcosa’s operations.
Arcosa is a party to collective bargaining agreements with various labor unions at some of Arcosa’s operations in the U.S. and Canada and all of Arcosa’s operations in Mexico. Disputes with regard to the terms of these agreements or Arcosa’s potential inability to negotiate acceptable contracts with these unions in the future could result in, among other things, strikes, work stoppages, or other slowdowns by the affected workers and Arcosa could experience a significant disruption of its operations and higher ongoing labor costs. In addition, Arcosa could face higher labor costs in the future as a result of severance or other charges associated with lay-offs, shutdowns, reductions in the size and scope of its operations or difficulties of restarting Arcosa’s operations that have been temporarily shuttered. Negative publicity, work stoppages, or strikes by unions could have a material adverse effect on Arcosa's business.
Equipment failures or other material disruption at one or more of Arcosa’s manufacturing facilities or other facilities or in Arcosa’s supply chain could have a material adverse effect on us. In some instances, Arcosa relies on a limited number of suppliers for certain raw materials, parts, and components needed in its production.
Arcosa owns and operates manufacturing facilities of various ages and levels of automated control and relies on a number of third parties as part of Arcosa’s supply chain, including for the efficient distribution of products to Arcosa’s customers. Any disruption at one of Arcosa’s manufacturing facilities or within Arcosa’s supply chain could prevent Arcosa from meeting demand or require Arcosa to incur unplanned capital expenditures. In addition, some of the
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equipment that Arcosa operates is old and some is highly technical. Both older equipment and more complex equipment may break down, resulting in unplanned downtime. Any unplanned downtime at Arcosa’s facilities may cause delays in meeting customer timelines, result in liquidated damages claims, or cause Arcosa to lose or harm customer relationships.
Arcosa's manufacturing operations partially depend on Arcosa's ability to obtain timely deliveries of raw materials, parts, and components in acceptable quantities and quality from Arcosa's suppliers. Certain raw materials, parts, and components for Arcosa's products are currently available from a limited number of suppliers and, as a result, Arcosa may have limited control over pricing, availability, and delivery schedules. If Arcosa is unable to purchase a sufficient quantity of raw materials, parts, and components on a timely basis, Arcosa could face disruptions in its production and incur delays while it attempts to engage alternative suppliers. Fewer suppliers could require Arcosa to source unproven and distant supply alternatives. In addition, meeting certain production demands is dependent on Arcosa's ability to obtain a sufficient amount of steel. An unanticipated interruption in Arcosa's supply chain could have an adverse impact on both Arcosa's margins and production schedules. Any such disruption or supply shortage could harm Arcosa's business.
Furthermore, any shortages in trucking, rail, barge, or container shipping capacity, any increase in the cost thereof, or any other disruption to those transportation systems could limit Arcosa’s ability to deliver its products in a timely manner or at all. Any material disruption at one or more of Arcosa’s facilities or those of Arcosa’s customers or suppliers or otherwise within Arcosa’s supply chain, whether as a result of downtime, facility damage, an inability to deliver Arcosa’s products or otherwise, could prevent Arcosa from meeting demand, require Arcosa to incur unplanned capital expenditures, or cause other material disruption to Arcosa’s operations, any of which could have a material adverse effect on Arcosa’s business.
Extensive damage to Arcosa’s facilities, including as a result of natural disasters or similar incidents, could lead to production, delivery or service curtailments or shutdowns, loss of revenue or higher expenses.
Arcosa operates a substantial amount of equipment at its production facilities, several of which are located in areas that may experience adverse weather, including extreme temperatures, tornados, and hurricanes, or are located on navigable waterways, subject to potential flooding and other excessive or low water conditions on one or more rivers that serve Arcosa facilities. Moreover, manufacturing facilities or other facilities can unexpectedly stop operating because of events unrelated to Arcosa or beyond its control, including equipment or technology failures, fires and other industrial accidents, implementation of non-navigation orders, the discovery of hazardous environmental conditions or other environmental incidents, or natural disasters such as floods, severe weather events, or other catastrophes. An interruption in operations at Arcosa’s facilities could reduce or prevent Arcosa’s production, delivery, service, or repair of Arcosa’s products and increase Arcosa’s costs and expenses. A halt of production at any of Arcosa’s manufacturing facilities could severely affect delivery times to Arcosa’s customers. While Arcosa maintains emergency response and business recovery plans that are intended to allow Arcosa to recover from natural disasters, Arcosa cannot provide assurances that its plans would fully protect Arcosa from the effects of all such disasters. In addition, insurance may not adequately compensate Arcosa for any losses incurred as a result of natural or other disasters, which may adversely affect Arcosa’s financial condition. Any significant delay in deliveries not otherwise contractually mitigated by favorable force majeure or other provisions could result in cancellation of all or a portion of Arcosa’s orders, cause Arcosa to lose future sales, and negatively affect Arcosa’s reputation and Arcosa’s results of operations.
Fluctuations in the price and supply of raw materials and parts and components used in the production of Arcosa’s products could have a material adverse effect on its ability to cost-effectively manufacture and sell its products.
A significant portion of Arcosa’s business depends on the adequate supply of raw materials and numerous specialty and other parts and components at competitive prices. The principal material used in Arcosa’s manufacturing segments is steel. The inflationary pressures on principal raw material prices, like steel, may result in increased costs or a delay in orders from Arcosa's customers, including but not limited to a customer's decision to place or delay orders for new barges due to fluctuations in the price of steel. During 2022 and 2023, Arcosa's Engineered Structures and Transportation Products segments were impacted by elevated steel costs, which negatively impacted order levels for wind towers and barges. Market steel prices may continue to exhibit periods of volatility and a continued increase in steel prices could continue to negatively impact demand for Arcosa's products like wind towers and barges. Steel prices may experience further volatility as a result of scrap surcharges assessed by steel mills, tariffs, and other market factors. Furthermore, consolidation of steel producers may lead to decreased competition in the industry and result in increased steel prices. Arcosa may use contract-specific purchasing practices, supplier commitments, contractual price escalation provisions, flexing between steel type, and other arrangements with Arcosa’s customers to mitigate the effect of this volatility on Arcosa’s operating profits. To the
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extent that Arcosa does not have such arrangements in place, a change in steel prices could materially lower Arcosa’s profitability.
The availability of natural aggregates reserves, specialty materials reserves, and supply stock for recycled aggregates could have a material adverse effect on Arcosa's ability to cost-effectively manufacture and sell its products.
A part of the operations in Arcosa’s Construction Products segment includes the mining of natural aggregates and specialty materials reserves. The success and viability of these operations depend on the accuracy of Arcosa’s reserve estimates, the costs of production and the ability to economically distribute the natural aggregates and specialty materials. Estimates for natural aggregate and specialty materials reserves and for the costs of production of such reserves depend upon a variety of factors and assumptions, many of which involve uncertainties beyond Arcosa’s control, such as geological and mining conditions that may not be identifiable. In addition, Arcosa's success in recovering natural aggregates and specialty materials depends on the ability to secure new reserve locations and permits to mine such reserves in areas that make distribution of materials economically viable. Community engagement and maintaining good relations within the communities where we operate is important to retaining and securing permits. Inaccuracies in reserve estimates and production costs, and the inability to secure locations and permits for future operations could negatively affect our results of operations. The success and viability of Arcosa's recycled aggregates operation depends on Arcosa's success in procuring supply stock for processing recycled materials into recycled aggregates. The inability to maintain and secure locations and permits for recycled aggregates operations could negatively affect our results of operations.
Reductions in the availability of energy supplies or an increase in energy costs may increase Arcosa’s operating costs.
Arcosa uses electricity and various gases, including natural gas, at Arcosa’s manufacturing facilities and uses diesel fuel in vehicles to transport Arcosa’s products to customers and to operate its plant equipment. An outbreak or escalation of hostilities between the U.S. and any foreign power or between other foreign powers, such as the war in Ukraine or the Israeli-Hamas conflict, could result in a real or perceived shortage of petroleum and/or natural gas, which could result in an increase in the cost of natural gas or energy in general. Additionally, extreme weather conditions such as extreme temperatures, hurricanes, tornadoes, or floods could result in varying states of disaster and lead to disruptions to the delivery and supply of petroleum and/or natural gas, including rationing thereof, or an increase in natural gas prices, electricity prices, or other general energy costs. Future limitations on the availability (including limitations imposed by increased regulation or restrictions on rail, road, and pipeline transportation of energy supplies) or consumption of electricity, petroleum products or natural gas and/or an increase in energy costs, particularly natural gas and diesel fuel, could have an adverse effect upon our ability to conduct Arcosa’s business cost effectively.
The limited number of customers for certain of Arcosa’s products, the variable purchase patterns of Arcosa’s customers in all of its segments, and the timing of completion, delivery, and customer acceptance of orders may cause Arcosa’s revenues and income from operations to vary substantially each quarter, potentially resulting in significant fluctuations in its quarterly results.
Some of the markets Arcosa serves have a limited number of customers. For example, Arcosa's wind tower customer base is highly concentrated due to a limited number of companies constructing wind towers. The volumes purchased by customers in each of Arcosa’s business segments vary from year to year, and not all customers make purchases every year. Furthermore, the timing of the completion, delivery, and customer acceptance of orders, including backlog orders, may cause Arcosa's revenues and income from operations to vary substantially each quarter. As a result, the order levels for Arcosa’s products have varied significantly from period to period in the past and may continue to vary significantly in the future. For example, GE Renewable Energy, a customer in our Engineered Structures segment, accounted for approximately 8.1% of our consolidated revenues in 2023 down from 9.3% of consolidated revenues in 2022. As a result of these fluctuations, Arcosa believes that comparisons of its sales and operating results between periods may not be meaningful and should not be relied upon as indicators of future performance.
Any material nonpayment or nonperformance by any of our customers could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.
Any material nonpayment or nonperformance by any of our customers could have a material adverse effect on our revenue and cash flows. While our contracts with our customers, including backlog orders, include terms and provisions that protect us in the event of a breach, we may be unable to enforce payment or performance obligations in a timely manner or at all or recover the entire amount we anticipated receiving under such contract. If we were to pursue legal remedies against a customer that failed to purchase the contracted amount of product under a fixed-volume contract or failed to satisfy the take-or-pay commitment under a take-or-pay contract, we may
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receive significantly less in a judgment or settlement of any claimed breach than we would have received had the customer fully performed under the contract. In the event of any customer's breach, we may also choose to renegotiate any disputed contract on less favorable terms (including with respect to price and volume) in order to preserve the relationship with that customer.
Defects in materials and workmanship could harm our reputation, expose us to product warranty or product liability claims, decrease demand for products, or materially harm existing or prospective customer relationships.
A defect in materials or components from suppliers, our materials, or in the manufacturing of our products could result in product warranty and product liability claims, decrease demand for products, or materially harm existing or prospective customer relationships. Depending on the product, Arcosa warrants its workmanship and certain materials (including surface coatings), parts, and components pursuant to express limited contractual warranties. Arcosa may be subject to significant warranty claims in the future, such as multiple claims based on one defect repeated throughout Arcosa's production process or claims for which the cost of shipping, repairing, or replacing the defective part, component, or material is highly disproportionate to the original price. Responding to such defects may also include costs related to disassembly of our products and transportation of the products from the field to our facilities and returning the products to the customer, a change in our manufacturing processes, recall of previously manufactured products, or personal injury claims. Any of these outcomes could result in significant expense and materially harm our existing or prospective customer relationships and reputation.
Some of Arcosa’s products are sold to contractors, distributors, installers, and rental companies who may misuse, abuse, improperly install, or improperly or inadequately maintain or repair such products, thereby potentially exposing Arcosa to claims that could increase Arcosa’s costs and weaken Arcosa’s liquidity and financial condition.
The products Arcosa manufactures are designed to work optimally when properly assembled, operated, installed, repaired, and maintained. For example, Arcosa's shoring products and barges are often subsequently rented or leased by Arcosa's customers to third parties who may misuse or improperly operate these products. If this or similar instances of misuse or improper operation were to occur, Arcosa may be subjected to claims or litigation associated with personal or bodily injuries or death and property damage.
Insurance coverage could be costly, unavailable, or inadequate.
Arcosa is subject to potential liability for third-party claims alleging property damage and personal and bodily injury or death arising from the use of or exposure to Arcosa’s products, especially in connection with products Arcosa manufactures that its customers use to transport hazardous, flammable, toxic, or explosive materials. Arcosa’s businesses are subject to losses arising from property damages or losses from business interruption. As policies expire, premiums for renewed or new coverage may further increase and/or require that Arcosa increase its self-insured retention, deductibles, or overall limits. Arcosa maintains primary coverage and excess coverage policies for liability claims as well as property damage. An unusually large liability claim, property loss claim, business interruption claim, or a string of claims coupled with an unusually large damage award could exceed Arcosa’s available insurance coverage. Moreover, any accident or incident involving Arcosa’s businesses in general or Arcosa or Arcosa’s products specifically, even if Arcosa is fully insured, contractually indemnified, or not held to be liable, could negatively affect Arcosa’s reputation among customers and the public. The ability of Arcosa to insure against the risks described in this Item 1A is limited by the applicable insurance markets, which may be costly, unavailable or inadequate. Arcosa’s inability to secure adequate insurance could increase Arcosa’s risk exposure and operational expenses and disrupt the management of its business operations.
Arcosa's indebtedness restricts its current and future operations, which could adversely affect its ability to respond to changes in its business and manage its operations.
Arcosa is a party to the Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”), by and among Arcosa, as borrower, and the lenders party thereto and the Indenture by and among Arcosa, certain of its subsidiaries which are guarantors and the trustee (the "Indenture"), pursuant to which $400 million of 4.375% senior notes due 2029 (the "Senior Notes" and, collectively, with the Credit Agreement and the Indenture, the “Financing Documents”) were issued. The Financing Documents contain a number of covenants potentially restricting the operations and financial condition of Arcosa and certain of its subsidiaries, including, among other things and subject to certain exceptions, restrictions on our ability to incur debt or liens, merge, sell assets, make investments and acquisitions, and make dividends and other restricted payments. The Credit Agreement also requires us to maintain compliance with financial covenants, and a change of control (as defined in the applicable Financing Document) could result in a default or prepayment event under the applicable Financing Document.These covenants and change of control provisions could have an adverse effect on Arcosa's business by limiting its ability to take advantage of financing, merger and acquisition, or other opportunities. The breach of any of these covenants
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or restrictions could result in a default under the Financing Documents, our inability to access the liquidity provided by the Credit Agreement, and the acceleration of the indebtedness under the Financing Documents.
Borrowings under the Credit Agreement incur interest which is variable based on fluctuations in the referenced Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR"). Increases in the referenced SOFR will increase Arcosa's borrowing costs and negatively impact financial results and cash flows. Increases in interest rates have resulted in higher interest expense related to borrowings under our Financing Documents year over year.
For more information on the restrictive covenants in the Financing Documents, see “Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources.” Arcosa's ability to comply with these agreements may be affected by events beyond its control, including prevailing economic, financial, and industry conditions.
Arcosa may be required to reduce the value of Arcosa’s long-lived assets, including intangible assets and/or goodwill, which would weaken Arcosa’s financial results.
Arcosa periodically evaluates for potential impairment the carrying values of Arcosa’s long-lived assets, including intangible assets, to be held and used. The carrying value of a long-lived asset to be held and used is considered impaired when the carrying value is not recoverable through undiscounted future cash flows and the fair value of the asset is less than the carrying value. Fair value is determined primarily using the anticipated cash flows discounted at a rate commensurate with the risks involved or market quotes as available. Impairment losses on long-lived assets held for sale are determined in a similar manner, except that fair values are reduced commensurate with the estimated cost to dispose of the assets. In addition, goodwill is required to be tested for impairment annually or on an interim basis whenever events or circumstances change indicating that the carrying amount of the goodwill might be impaired.
Certain non-cash impairments may result from a change in our strategic goals, business direction, changes in market interest rates, or other factors relating to the overall business environment. Any impairment of the value of goodwill or other intangible assets recorded in connection with previous acquisitions would result in a non-cash charge against earnings, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.
Risks Related to Economic, Geopolitical and Legal Factors.
Pandemics, epidemics, or other public health emergencies, as well as the governmental reaction thereto, may adversely affect Arcosa’s business.
Arcosa’s business may be adversely affected if a pandemic, epidemic, or other public health emergency occurs. For example, the outbreak of COVID-19, including its variants, disrupted global trade, commerce, financial and credit markets, and daily life throughout the world. Any future similar public health emergency could negatively impact our business in a number of ways, including the health of our employees and employee productivity, the availability and pricing of supplies and raw materials, our ability to fulfill customer orders, and the availability of our transportation and distribution networks. For example, if one or more of Arcosa’s facilities become subject to closure in connection with a public health emergency, the business as a whole could be materially affected.
In addition, the impact of a government shutdown could have a material adverse effect on Arcosa's revenues, profits, and cash flows. Arcosa relies on government personnel to conduct certain routine business processes related to the inspection and delivery of certain products that, if disrupted, could have an immediate impact on Arcosa's revenues and business. The negative impact on the economy from a pandemic, epidemic or other public health emergency could also impact our customers in similar ways, causing customers to postpone projects, cancel or delay orders, or file bankruptcy.
A pandemic, epidemic, or other public health emergency could also disrupt Arcosa's cross-border business transactions and activities. During the COVID-19 pandemic, governments in the United States and elsewhere in the world implemented strict measures to help control the spread of the virus, including quarantines, travel restrictions, business curtailments, and other measures. Such actions may impair or prevent Arcosa from continuing its operations and business arrangements outside the United States. The extent to which a pandemic, epidemic, or other public health emergency could impact our business will depend on numerous evolving factors that we may not be able to accurately predict.
Instability in the economy or negative conditions in credit markets may adversely affect our business by limiting Arcosa's or its customers' and suppliers' access to credit.
Instability in the global economy or negative conditions in the global credit markets that limit or impair our access to credit may adversely affect our business. In general, Arcosa may rely upon banks and capital markets to fund its growth strategy. Any downgrades in our credit ratings may make raising capital more difficult, increase the cost and
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affect the terms of future borrowings, affect the terms under which we purchase goods and services and limit our ability to take advantage of potential business opportunities. If Arcosa is unable to secure financing on acceptable terms, Arcosa's other sources of funds, including available cash, its revolving credit facility, and cash flow from operations may not be adequate to fund its operations and contractual commitments and refinance existing debt.
We are also exposed to risks associated with the creditworthiness of our customers and suppliers. For example, if volatile conditions in the global credit markets such as rising interest rates and tightening of credit standards limit our customers' access to credit (or increase the cost of obtaining credit), product order volumes may decrease, or customers may default on payments owed to Arcosa. Likewise, if Arcosa's suppliers face challenges obtaining credit, selling their products to customers that require purchasing credit, or otherwise operating their businesses, the supply of materials Arcosa purchases from them to manufacture its products may be interrupted. These events or a more general economic downturn could lead to a reduction in orders for Arcosa’s products, requests for deferred deliveries of backlog orders and make it difficult to collect on accounts receivable, which could result in lower revenue or increased operating costs. In addition, such events could result in Arcosa’s customers’ attempts to unilaterally cancel or terminate firm contracts or orders in whole or in part, resulting in contract or purchase order breaches which could result in increased commercial litigation costs.
Arcosa and its customers participate in cyclical industries, which are subject to downturns.
A majority of Arcosa's revenue is from customers who are in industries and businesses that are cyclical in nature which may result in decreased demand for Arcosa's products and negatively affect the collectability of receivables. For example, demand for our construction products is driven in large part by residential and commercial construction spending and by population and economic growth which typically slow during a downturn. The barge industry in particular has previously experienced sharp cyclical downturns and at such times operated with a minimal backlog. In addition, since Arcosa's operations are in a variety of geographic markets, its businesses are subject to differing economic conditions in each such geographic market. While the business cycles of Arcosa’s different operations may not typically coincide, an economic downturn could affect disparate cycles contemporaneously.
Decreased demand could result in lower sales volumes, lower prices, a slowdown in production at our facilities and/or a decline in or loss of profits. In addition, an economic downturn may negatively affect the collectability of accounts receivable. Any of the foregoing market or industry conditions or events could result in reductions in Arcosa’s revenues, or increased operating costs.
The impact of increased prices and inflation on principal raw material prices, including steel with respect to the order of new barges or wind towers, could negatively impact Arcosa's performance and financial results.
Increased inflation, including rising prices for raw materials such as steel, fuel, parts and components, freight, packaging, supplies, labor and energy, increases our costs to manufacture and distribute our products. We use market prices for materials, fuel, and parts and components, and may be unable to pass these rising costs on to our customers. While Arcosa cannot predict the extent to which inflation may continue to increase, increases in the price of steel have and could continue to impact a customer's decision to place or delay orders for new barges or wind towers. Other inflationary pressures may generally result in a reduction in construction activity, which could have a material adverse effect on our business. Under varying circumstances, Arcosa may take actions to minimize these inflationary risks, but such efforts may not be effective in mitigating the impact on Arcosa's margins. Arcosa's revenues or operating costs may be negatively affected if we are unable to mitigate the impact of these cost increases through contractual means or otherwise offset the effect of these cost increases.
Risks related to Arcosa’s operations outside of the U.S., particularly Mexico, could decrease Arcosa’s profitability.
Arcosa’s operations outside of the U.S. are subject to risks associated with cross-border business transactions and activities. Political, legal, trade, or economic change or instability, criminal activities, or social unrest could limit or curtail Arcosa’s respective foreign business activities and operations, including the ability to hire and retain employees. Violence in Mexico associated with drug trafficking is continuing. Arcosa has not, to date, been materially affected by any of these risks, but Arcosa cannot predict the likelihood of future effects from such risks or any resulting adverse impact on Arcosa’s business.
Arcosa ships raw materials to Mexico and manufactures products in Mexico that are sold in the U.S. or elsewhere, which are subject to customs and other regulations. Any shutdown or delays at the U.S./Mexico border could affect our ability to transport or import our products manufactured in Mexico in a timely manner or at all. Some foreign countries where Arcosa operates have regulatory authorities that regulate products sold or used in those countries. If Arcosa fails to comply with the applicable regulations related to the foreign countries where Arcosa operates,
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Arcosa may be unable to market and sell its products in those countries or could be subject to administrative fines or penalties.
In addition, with respect to operations in Mexico and other foreign countries, unexpected changes in the political environment, laws, rules, and regulatory requirements; tariffs and other trade barriers, including regulatory initiatives for buying goods produced in America; more stringent or restrictive laws, rules and regulations relating to labor or the environment; adverse tax consequences; price exchange controls and restrictions; regulations affecting cross-border rail and vehicular traffic; or availability of commodities, including gasoline and electricity, could limit operations affecting production throughput and making the manufacture and distribution of Arcosa’s products less timely or more difficult.
Furthermore, any material change in the quotas, regulations or duties on imports imposed by the U.S. government and agencies or on exports by the government of Mexico or its agencies, could affect Arcosa’s ability to export products that Arcosa manufactures in Mexico. Failure to comply with such import and export regulations could result in significant fines and penalties.
Because Arcosa has operations outside the U.S., Arcosa could be adversely affected by final judgments of non-compliance with the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977 (“FCPA”) or import/export rules and regulations and similar anti-corruption, anti-bribery, or import/export laws of other countries. As a result of our policy to comply with the FCPA and similar anti-bribery laws, we may be at a competitive disadvantage to competitors that are not subject to, or do not comply with, such laws.
Arcosa may incur increased costs due to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates.
Arcosa is exposed to risks associated with changes in foreign currency exchange rates. For example, Arcosa has substantial manufacturing operations in Mexico. To the extent there are significant changes in the exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and the Mexican peso, Arcosa may incur increased costs or losses and reduced profits. Because our financial statements are denominated in U.S. dollars, fluctuations in currency exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and other currencies have had and will continue to have an impact on our reported earnings. Under varying circumstances, Arcosa may seek to minimize these risks using hedges and similar financial instruments and other activities, although these measures, if and when implemented, may not be effective. Any material and untimely changes in exchange rates could adversely impact our business.
Arcosa may be adversely affected by trade policies and practices, including trade practices of competitors that violate U.S. or other foreign laws, regulations, or practices.
Arcosa faces competition from manufacturers both in the U.S. and around the world, some of which may engage in competition and trade practices involving the importation of competing products into the U.S. in violation of U.S. or other foreign laws, regulations, or practices. For example, Arcosa’s competitors may import competing products that are subsidized by foreign governments and sold in the U.S. at less than fair value. The results of trade negotiations, trade agreements, and tariffs could also negatively affect Arcosa’s supplies, cost of goods sold, and customers. For example, Arcosa produces certain products at its manufacturing facilities in Mexico. Arcosa's business benefits from free trade agreements, such as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement ("USMCA"). Potential developments, including failure to enforce the USMCA, potential changes or amendments to the agreement, governmental policies, and laws and regulations could adversely affect Arcosa's existing production operations in Mexico and have a material adverse effect on Arcosa's business. These trade policies and practices could increase pricing pressure on Arcosa’s products, reduce Arcosa’s revenues and operating profits, limit Arcosa’s ability to grow, and otherwise adversely affect Arcosa’s financial results.
Arcosa and its customers depend on government spending and funding from federal, state and local government agencies, and any disruption in government funding could harm Arcosa's business.
Periods of partial or full U.S. federal government shutdown, impasse, deadlock, and last-minute accords may continue to permeate many aspects of U.S. governance, including federal government budgeting and spending, government-funded infrastructure projects and building activities, taxation, U.S. deficit spending and debt ceiling limits, and international commerce. Such periods could negatively impact U.S. domestic and global financial markets, thereby reducing customer demand for Arcosa’s products and services and potentially result in reductions in Arcosa’s revenues, increased price competition, or increased operating costs, any of which could adversely affect Arcosa’s business.
Furthermore, certain of Arcosa’s businesses depend on government spending for infrastructure and other similar building activities. As a result, demand for some of Arcosa’s products is influenced by local, state, U.S. federal, and international government fiscal policies, tax incentives and other subsidies, and other general macroeconomic and political factors. Projects in which Arcosa participates may be funded directly by governments or privately-funded, but are otherwise tied to or impacted by government policies and spending measures.
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Government spending is often approved only on a short-term basis and some of the projects in which Arcosa’s products are used require longer-term funding commitments. If government funding is not approved or funding is lowered as a result of poor economic conditions, lower than expected revenues, competing spending priorities, or other factors, it could limit infrastructure projects available, increase competition for projects, result in excess inventory, and decrease sales, all of which could adversely affect the profitability of Arcosa’s business.
Additionally, certain regions or states may require or possess the means to finance only a limited number of large infrastructure projects and periods of high demand may be followed by years of little to no activity. There can be no assurances that governments will sustain or increase current infrastructure spending and tax incentive and other subsidy levels, and any reductions thereto or delays therein could affect Arcosa’s business.
Repercussions from terrorist activities or armed conflict could harm Arcosa’s business.
Terrorist activities, anti-terrorist efforts, and other armed conflict involving the U.S. or its interests abroad or other foreign actors, including the war in Ukraine and the Israeli-Hamas conflict, may adversely affect the U.S. and global economies, potentially negatively affecting the industries in which Arcosa operates. For example, this could result in delays in or cancellations of the purchase of Arcosa’s products or shortages in raw materials, parts, or components, any of which could prevent Arcosa from meeting its financial and other obligations.
Litigated disputes and other claims could increase Arcosa’s costs and weaken Arcosa’s liquidity and financial condition.
Arcosa is currently, and may from time to time be, involved in various claims or legal proceedings arising out of Arcosa’s operations. The defense of these lawsuits, claims, investigations, and proceedings may divert management's attention from Arcosa's core business and be expensive to defend. Any claims or legal proceedings brought against Arcosa, with or without merit, could harm Arcosa's reputation in the industry and reduce product sales. Adverse judgments and outcomes in some or all of these matters could result in significant losses and costs that could weaken Arcosa’s liquidity and financial condition. Although Arcosa maintains reserves for its probable and reasonably estimable liability, Arcosa’s reserves may be inadequate to cover its portion of claims or final judgments after taking into consideration rights in indemnity and recourse under insurance policies or to third parties as a result of which there could be a material adverse effect on Arcosa’s business. See Note 15. "Commitments and Contingencies” for additional information on the Company’s current litigation.
Risks Related to Growth Strategy.
Arcosa may not be able to successfully identify, consummate or integrate acquisitions.
Arcosa expects to routinely engage in the search for growth opportunities, including assessment of merger and acquisition prospects in new markets and/or products. However, Arcosa may not be able to identify and secure suitable opportunities. Arcosa’s ability to consummate any acquisitions on terms that are favorable to Arcosa may be limited by a number of factors, such as competition for attractive targets and, to the extent necessary, Arcosa’s ability to obtain financing on satisfactory terms, if at all.
In addition, if Arcosa is not able to successfully integrate its transactions to any material degree, such failure of a successful integration could result in unexpected claims or otherwise have a material adverse effect on Arcosa’s business. Integration risks include the following: (i) the diversion of management’s time and resources to integration matters from other Arcosa matters; (ii) difficulties in achieving business opportunities and growth prospects of the acquired business; (iii) difficulties in managing the expanded operations; and (iv) challenges in retaining key personnel. The failure to successfully integrate such mergers or acquisitions could prevent Arcosa from achieving the anticipated operating and cost synergies or long-term strategic benefits from such transactions.
Acquisitions and divestitures bring risks of unexpected liabilities that could harm Arcosa's business.
Acquisitions and divestitures may bring known and unknown risks to Arcosa. If we fail to adequately perform due diligence during the acquisition process, we may be subject to unexpected liabilities in connection with such transaction. Acquisitions and divestitures also bring risks that the counterparties to the transactions may fail to perform their obligations, which could result in costly litigation, divert management's attention and disrupt our business operations. Third parties could also seek to hold Arcosa responsible for these liabilities, and there can be no assurance that any indemnity from our counterparties or any insurance we obtain in connection with the transaction will be sufficient to protect Arcosa against the full amount of such potential liabilities.
Furthermore, an element of Arcosa's long-term strategy is to reduce the complexity and cyclicality of the overall business which may result in divestitures. Divestitures pose risks and challenges that could negatively impact Arcosa's business, including retained liabilities related to divested businesses, obligations to indemnify counterparties against contingent liabilities and potential disputes with counterparties.
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If we do not realize the expected benefits of these divestitures or our post-completion liabilities and continuing obligations are substantial and exceed our expectations, our financial position, results of operations and cash flows could be negatively impacted. Any divestiture may result in a dilutive impact to our future earnings if we are unable to offset the dilutive impact from the loss of revenue and profits associated with the divestiture, as well as significant write-offs, including those related to goodwill and other intangible assets, which could result in a material adverse effect on Arcosa's business.
Potential expansion of our business may expose us to new business, regulatory, political, operational, financial, and economic risks associated with such expansion, both inside and outside of the U.S.
Arcosa's growth strategy may result in the acquisition of a new lines of business or expansion into geographic markets (whether inside or outside the U.S.) in which we have limited operating experience, including with respect to seeking regulatory approvals, becoming subject to regulatory authorities, and marketing or selling products. For example, the acquisitions of StonePoint and Southwest Rock brought new lines of business to Arcosa, including asphalt production, and exposed Arcosa to new geographic markets.
Further, our operations in new foreign markets may be adversely affected by a number of factors, including: general economic conditions and monetary and fiscal policy; financial risks, such as longer payment cycles, difficulty in collecting from international customers, the effect of local and regional financial crises, and exposure to foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations and controls; multiple, conflicting, and changing laws and regulations such as export and import restrictions, employment laws, regulatory and local zoning requirements, and other governmental approvals, permits, and licenses; interest rates and taxation laws and policies; increased government regulation; social stability; and political, economic, or diplomatic developments. Certain jurisdictions have, from time to time, experienced instances of civil unrest and hostilities, both internally and with neighboring countries. Rioting, military activity, terrorist attacks, or armed hostilities could cause our operations in such jurisdictions to be adversely affected or suspended. We generally do not have insurance for losses and interruptions caused by terrorist attacks, military conflicts, and wars.
Any of these factors could significantly harm our potential business or international expansion and our operations.
Risks Related to Regulatory and Environmental Matters
Our business is subject to significant regulatory compliance in the U.S., Mexico, and other countries where we do business, and any failure to comply with any current or future laws or regulations could have a material adverse effect on us.
Arcosa’s Transportation Products segment is subject to regulation by, among others, the U.S. Coast Guard; the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board; the U.S. Customs Service; the Maritime Administration of the USDOT and private industry organizations such as the American Bureau of Shipping and the Association of American Railroads. These organizations establish safety criteria, investigate vessel accidents, and recommend improved safety standards.
Arcosa’s Construction Products segment is subject to regulation by MSHA, USEPA, FDA, and various state agencies.
Arcosa’s Engineered Structures segment is subject to the regulations by the USDOT and various state agencies, including state departments of transportation.
Arcosa’s operations are also subject to various governmental regulations in the U.S., Mexico, and other countries where we do business related to occupational safety and health, labor, and business practices, including OSHA and MSHA.
Although we believe that we are in material compliance with all applicable regulations and operating permits material to our business operations, if we determine that our current or future products or processes are not in compliance with applicable requirements, rules, regulations, specifications, standards or product testing criteria, it might result in additional operating expenses, administrative fines or penalties, criminal sanctions, product recalls, reputational harm, or loss of business that could have a material adverse effect on Arcosa’s business.
In addition, amendments to existing statutes and regulations, adoption of new statutes and regulations, modification of existing operating permits, or entering into new lines of business which are covered by regulatory agencies that Arcosa has not previously been subject to could require us to alter our methods of operation and/or discontinue the sale of certain of our products, resulting in costs to us that could be substantial. For example, the U.S. barge industry relies, in part, on the Jones Act because it prohibits foreign vessels from transporting goods between U.S. ports. Changes to or a repeal of such legislation could have a material adverse impact on Arcosa’s barge business and revenues.
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Arcosa is subject to health and safety laws and regulations and any failure to comply with any current or future laws or regulations could have a material adverse effect on us.
Manufacturing and construction sites are inherently dangerous workplaces. Arcosa’s manufacturing sites often put Arcosa’s employees and others in close proximity with large pieces of mechanized equipment, moving vehicles, chemical and manufacturing processes, heavy products and other items, and highly regulated materials. Unsafe work sites have the potential to increase employee turnover and raise Arcosa’s operating costs. Arcosa’s safety record can also impact Arcosa’s reputation. Arcosa maintains functional groups whose primary purpose is to ensure Arcosa implements effective work procedures throughout Arcosa’s organization and take other steps to ensure the health and safety of Arcosa’s work force, but there can be no assurances these measures will be successful in preventing injuries or violations of health and safety laws and regulations. Any failure to maintain safe work sites or violations of applicable health and safety standards and laws, including non-compliance with operating permits, could result in the imposition of substantial fines, suspension of production, alterations of our production processes, cessation of operations, or other actions which could harm our business. Such compliance failures could also expose Arcosa to significant financial losses and reputational harm, as well as civil and criminal liabilities, any of which could have a material adverse effect on Arcosa’s business.
Arcosa has potential exposure to environmental liabilities that may increase costs and lower profitability.
Arcosa is subject to comprehensive federal, state, local, and foreign environmental laws and regulations relating to: (i) the release or discharge of regulated materials into the environment at Arcosa’s facilities or with respect to Arcosa’s products while in operation; (ii) the management, use, processing, handling, storage, transport and transport arrangement, and disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous waste, substances, and materials; and (iii) other activities relating to the protection of human health and the environment. These laws and regulations primarily relate to the generation and disposal of waste, wastewater discharges and air emissions. Such laws and regulations expose Arcosa to liability for its own acts and in certain instances potentially expose Arcosa to liability for the acts of others. These laws and regulations also may impose liability on Arcosa currently under circumstances where at the time of the action taken, Arcosa’s acts or those of others complied with then applicable laws and regulations. In addition, such laws may require significant expenditures to achieve compliance, and are frequently modified or revised to impose new obligations. Non-compliance with these environmental laws and regulations could result in a shutdown or work stoppage and civil and criminal fines or penalties. Arcosa’s operations involving hazardous materials also raise potential risks of liability under common law.
Environmental pre-construction, construction, and operating permits are, or may be, required for Arcosa’s operations under these laws and regulations. These environmental permits are subject to modification, renewal, and/or revocation. Although Arcosa regularly monitors and reviews its operations, procedures, and policies for compliance with Arcosa’s environmental permits and related laws and regulations, the risk of environmental liability is inherent in the operation of Arcosa’s businesses.
However, future events, such as changes in, or modified interpretations of, existing environmental laws and regulations or enforcement policies, or further investigation or evaluation of the potential health hazards associated with the manufacture of Arcosa’s products and related business activities and properties, may give rise to additional compliance and other costs that could have a material adverse effect on Arcosa’s business.
The transportation of commodities by rail, barge, or container also raises potential liability risks in the event of an accident that results in the release of substances that cause harm to the environment, natural resources, or result in exposure to harmful substances. Generally, liability under existing laws for an accident depends upon causation analysis and the acts, errors, or omissions, if any, of a party involved in the transportation activity, including, but not limited to, the shipper, the buyer, and the seller of the substances being transported, or the manufacturer of products or their components used to transport such substances. Additionally, the severity of injury or property damage arising from an incident may influence the causation responsibility analysis, exposing Arcosa to potentially greater liability. Under certain circumstances, strict liability concepts may apply. If Arcosa is found liable in any such incidents, it could have a material adverse effect on Arcosa’s business.
Responding to claims relating to improper handling, transport, storage, or disposal of hazardous materials could be time consuming and costly.
We use controlled hazardous materials in our business and generate wastes that are regulated as hazardous wastes under U.S. federal, state, and local environmental laws and under equivalent provisions of law in those and other jurisdictions in which our manufacturing facilities are located. Our use of these substances and materials is subject to stringent, and periodically changing, regulation that can impose costly compliance obligations on us and have the potential to adversely affect our manufacturing activities. We are also subject to potential liability for claims alleging property damage and personal and bodily injury or death arising from the use of or exposure to our
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products, especially in connection with products we manufacture that our customers use to transport or store hazardous, flammable, toxic, or explosive materials.
The risk of accidental contamination or injury from these materials cannot be completely eliminated. If an accident involving these substances occurs, we could be held liable for any damages that result, as well as incurring clean-up costs and liabilities, which can be substantial. Additionally, an accident could damage our facilities, resulting in delays and increased costs.
Our manufacturing plants or other facilities may have unknown environmental conditions that could be expensive and time-consuming to correct.
There can be no assurance that we will not encounter environmental conditions at any of our manufacturing plants or other facilities that may require us to incur significant clean-up or correction costs. Upon encountering an environmental condition or receiving a notice of an environmental condition, we may be required to correct the condition. The presence of an environmental condition requiring corrective action or remediation relating to any of our manufacturing plants or other facilities may require significant expenditures to address.
Business, regulatory, and legal developments regarding climate change, and physical impacts from climate change, could have an adverse effect on our business.
Legislation and new rules to regulate emission of greenhouse gases (“GHGs”) have been introduced in numerous state legislatures, the U.S. Congress, and by the USEPA. Some of these proposals would require industries to meet new standards that may require substantial reductions in carbon emissions. There is also a potential for climate change legislation and regulation that could adversely impact the cost of certain manufacturing inputs, including the increasing cost of energy and electricity. While Arcosa cannot assess the direct impact of these or other potential regulations, new climate change protocols could affect demand for its products and/or affect the price of materials, input factors, energy costs, and manufactured components.
Potential impacts of climate change include physical impacts, such as disruption in production and product distribution due to impacts from major storm events, shifts in regional weather patterns and intensities, and sea level changes. Other adverse consequences of climate change could include an increased frequency of severe weather events, low river levels, drought, flooding, and rising sea levels that could affect operations at Arcosa’s manufacturing facilities as well as the price and/or availability of insurance coverage for the Company assets or other unforeseen disruptions of Arcosa’s operations, systems, property, or equipment.
We also communicate certain initiatives and goals regarding GHG and related matters in our public disclosures. These initiatives and goals may be difficult and expensive to implement or may not advance at a pace sufficient to meet our goals, and we could be criticized for the scope, accuracy, adequacy or completeness of the disclosure. Further, statements about our GHG-related initiatives and goals, and progress towards these goals, may be based on standards for measuring progress that are still developing, internal controls and processes that continue to evolve and assumptions that are subject to change in the future. If our GHG-related data, processes and reporting are inaccurate or incomplete, or if we fail to achieve progress with respect to these goals or initiatives on a timely basis or at all, our operations and financial performance could be adversely affected. In addition, California enacted two new climate disclosure laws in September 2023 that (1) require U.S.-based businesses with total annual revenues over one billion dollars and doing business in California to annually report their Scope 1, 2, and 3 GHG emissions, and (2) require U.S.-based businesses with total annual revenues over five hundred million dollars and doing business in California to prepare biennial risk reports disclosing the entity's climate-related financial risk and measures adopted to reduce and adapt to climate-related financial risk. A lawsuit challenging the new California climate disclosure laws was filed in a federal district court in California on January 30, 2024. The California Air Resources Board is required to adopt regulations implementing the new California disclosure requirements, but has not, to date, issued any such regulations. Furthermore, if the SEC's proposed climate disclosure requirements are adopted on substantially similar terms as proposed, we will be required to incur significant time and money to comply with the disclosure requirements and may be required to modify certain of our operations. These compliance costs could adversely impact our future business.
The impacts of climate change and related regulations on our operations and the Company overall are highly uncertain and difficult to estimate, but such effects could be materially adverse to our business.
Arcosa’s sustainability efforts may be costly or may not meet the public sentiments of our stockholders and others with respect to our sustainability practices and related public disclosures.
Arcosa has been proactive in integrating its sustainability initiatives into its long-term strategy. The subjective nature and wide variety of frameworks and methods used by our stockholders and others to assess Arcosa’s sustainability strategy and progress; diversity, equity, and inclusion ("DEI") initiatives; and heightened governance standards could result in a negative perception by our stockholders or misrepresentation of Arcosa’s sustainability
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goals and progress. Arcosa’s inability to achieve satisfactory progress on its sustainability initiatives, like climate change related initiatives, reduced air emissions, water and waste management, DEI efforts, and improved safety, on a timely basis, or at all, or to meet the sustainability criteria of our stockholders and others could adversely affect Arcosa’s business.
From time to time Arcosa may take tax positions that the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”), the Servicio de Administracion Tributaria (“SAT”) in Mexico, or other taxing jurisdictions may contest.
Our subsidiaries have in the past and may in the future take tax positions that the IRS, the SAT, or other taxing jurisdictions may challenge. If the IRS, SAT, or other taxing jurisdictions successfully contests a tax position that Arcosa takes, Arcosa may be required to pay additional taxes or penalties which may not have been previously accrued that may adversely affect its results of operations and financial position.
The expiration, elimination, modification or reduction of tax benefits or tax credits or the ability to utilize federal-aid programs that allow for purchase price reimbursement or other government funding or subsidies may harm Arcosa's business.
Some of Arcosa’s customers place orders for Arcosa’s products (i) in reliance on their ability to obtain and utilize tax benefits or tax credits such as accelerated depreciation or the production tax credit or investment tax credit for renewable energy or (ii) to utilize federal-aid programs that allow for purchase price reimbursement or other government funding or subsidies, any of which benefits, credits, or programs could be modified, discontinued or allowed to expire without extension thereby reducing demand for certain of Arcosa’s products and reducing certain tax credits for which Arcosa may be eligible.
Additionally, the recently enacted Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 (the "IRA") provides for certain manufacturing, production, and investment tax credit incentives, including new AMP tax credits for companies that domestically manufacture and sell clean energy equipment, like Arcosa Wind Towers. For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company has recognized $32.4 million in AMP tax credits for wind towers produced and sold in 2023. The issuance of comprehensive guidance and interpretation as to the eligibility for, calculation of, and methods for claiming many of the IRA’s various tax benefits, tax credits, subsidies, and programs remains ongoing. If forthcoming guidance interprets the AMP in a restrictive manner or if any benefits, credits, subsidies, or programs under the IRA are allowed to expire or are otherwise modified or discontinued, the demand for Arcosa’s products could decrease and/or the amount of AMP tax credits for which Arcosa may be eligible may be reduced, thereby creating the potential for a material adverse effect on Arcosa’s business and future financial results.
Risks Related to Technology and Cybersecurity
The inability to produce and disseminate relevant and/or reliable data and information pertaining to Arcosa’s business in an efficient, cost-effective, secure, and well-controlled fashion may have significant negative impacts on confidentiality requirements and obligations and trade secret or other proprietary needs and expectations and, therefore, Arcosa’s future operations, profitability, and competitive position.
Arcosa relies on information technology infrastructure and architecture, including hardware, cloud computing networks, software, people, and processes to manage protected, confidential, and other sensitive information to conduct Arcosa’s business in the ordinary course. Any material failure, interruption of service, compromise of data security, or cybersecurity threat could adversely affect Arcosa’s relations with suppliers, customers, and regulators and place Arcosa in violation of data protection laws, rules, and regulations, and result in negative impacts to Arcosa’s market share, operations, and profitability. Arcosa will have to continually upgrade its infrastructure and applications to reduce or mitigate these risks. Security breaches in Arcosa’s information technology systems could result in theft, destruction, loss, misappropriation, or release of protected, confidential or other sensitive data including personal information of our employees, trade secrets, or other proprietary intellectual property that could adversely impact Arcosa’s future results.
Cybersecurity incidents, whether with Arcosa or a third party, could disrupt our business and result in the compromise of confidential information.
Our business is at risk from and may be impacted by information security incidents, including attempts to gain unauthorized access to our systems or data, ransomware, malware, phishing scams, and other physical and electronic security events as well as from similar events impacting third parties with which we do business. Such incidents can range from individual attempts to gain unauthorized access to our information technology systems to more sophisticated security attacks and events. They can also result from internal compromises, such as human error, or malicious acts or misconduct by employees or third-party vendors. There are additional risks related to the use of remote networking services and technologies that enable remote work.
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While we employ several measures to prevent, detect, and mitigate these threats, there is no guarantee such efforts will be successful in preventing a cyber event or that any third parties with which we do business will be successful in preventing a cyber event. We have invested and continue to invest in risk management, information security, and data protection measures, including technical, administrative, and organizational safeguards, in order to protect our systems and data. The cost and operational consequences of implementing, maintaining, and enhancing further data or system safeguards could increase significantly to keep pace with increasingly frequent, complex, and sophisticated global cyber threats. Although we believe that we have taken adequate measures to protect against data breaches and system disruptions, we are not able to anticipate or prevent all such risks. Any material breaches of cybersecurity, including the accidental loss, inadvertent disclosure or unapproved dissemination of proprietary information or sensitive or confidential data, or media reports of perceived security vulnerabilities to our systems, products, and services or those of our third parties could cause us to experience reputational harm, loss of customers and revenue, fines, regulatory actions and scrutiny, sanctions, or other statutory penalties, litigation, liability for failure to safeguard our customers' information or financial losses that are either not insured against or not fully covered through any insurance maintained by us. The report, rumor, or assumption regarding a potential breach may have similar results, even if no breach has been attempted or occurred. Any of the foregoing may have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results, and financial condition. Any measures that we take to avoid, detect, mitigate, or recover from material incidents, may be insufficient, circumvented, or may become ineffective.
In addition, laws and regulations governing cybersecurity, data privacy and protection, and the unauthorized disclosure of confidential or protected information pose increasingly complex compliance challenges and potentially elevate costs, and any failure to comply with these laws and regulations could result in significant penalties and legal liability.
Arcosa’s inability to sufficiently protect Arcosa’s intellectual property rights could adversely affect Arcosa’s business.
Arcosa’s patents, copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets, and other intellectual property rights are important to Arcosa’s success. Arcosa relies on patent, copyright, and trademark law, and trade secret protection and confidentiality and/or license agreements with others to protect Arcosa’s intellectual property rights. Arcosa’s trademarks, service marks, copyrights, patents, and trade secrets may be exposed to market confusion, commercial abuse, infringement, or misappropriation and possibly challenged, invalidated, circumvented, narrowed, or declared unenforceable by countries where Arcosa’s products and services are made available, including countries where the laws may not protect Arcosa’s intellectual property rights as fully as in the U.S. Such instances could negatively impact Arcosa’s competitive position and adversely affect Arcosa’s business. Additionally, Arcosa could be required to incur significant expenses to protect its intellectual property rights.
Risks Related to Arcosa Common Stock.
Arcosa cannot guarantee the timing, amount, or payment of dividends on its common stock.
The timing, declaration, amount, and payment of future dividends to Arcosa’s stockholders falls within the discretion of Arcosa’s Board of Directors (the "Board"). The Board of Directors’ decisions regarding the payment of future dividends will depend on many factors, such as Arcosa’s financial condition, earnings, capital requirements, debt service obligations, covenants related to our debt service obligations, industry practice, legal requirements, regulatory constraints, access to the capital markets, and other factors that the Board of Directors deems relevant. Arcosa cannot guarantee that it will continue to pay any dividend in the future.
Certain provisions in Arcosa’s restated certificate of incorporation and amended and restated bylaws ("Arcosa’s Governing Documents"), and of Delaware law, may prevent or delay an acquisition of Arcosa, which could decrease the trading price of the common stock.
Arcosa’s Governing Documents and Delaware law contain provisions that are intended to deter coercive takeover practices and inadequate takeover bids by making such practices or bids unacceptably expensive to the bidder and to encourage prospective acquirers to negotiate with Arcosa’s Board of Directors rather than to attempt a hostile takeover.
These provisions include limitations on the ability of our stockholders to call special meetings, the establishment of advance notice procedures for stockholder proposals and nominations for election of directors and allow for Arcosa's Board of Directors to issue blank check preferred stock with voting or conversion rights without stockholder approval. In addition, Arcosa is subject to Section 203 of the Delaware General Corporation Law which makes it more difficult for a person who acquires, 15% or more of Arcosa's outstanding voting stock to effect various business combinations with us for a three-year period following the time such stockholder became a 15% stockholder.
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Arcosa believes these provisions will protect its stockholders from coercive or otherwise unfair takeover tactics by requiring potential acquirers to negotiate with Arcosa’s Board of Directors and by providing Arcosa’s Board of Directors with more time to assess any acquisition proposal. These provisions are not intended to make Arcosa immune from takeovers. However, these provisions will apply even if the offer may be considered beneficial by some stockholders and could delay or prevent an acquisition that Arcosa’s Board of Directors determines is not in the best interests of Arcosa and its stockholders. These provisions may also prevent or discourage attempts to remove and replace incumbent directors.
Arcosa’s stock price may fluctuate significantly.
We cannot predict the prices at which shares of Arcosa common stock may trade. The trading and market price of Arcosa common stock may fluctuate significantly due to a number of factors, some of which may be beyond Arcosa’s control, including: Arcosa’s quarterly or annual earnings, or those of other companies in its industry; actual or anticipated fluctuations in Arcosa’s operating results; changes in earnings estimates by securities analysts or Arcosa’s ability to meet those estimates; Arcosa’s ability to meet its forward-looking guidance; the operating and stock price performance of other comparable companies; overall market fluctuations and domestic and worldwide economic conditions; and other factors described in these “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Stock markets in general have experienced volatility that has often been unrelated to the operating performance of a particular company. Broad market and industry factors may materially harm the market price of Arcosa’s common stock, regardless of Arcosa’s operating performance. In the past, following periods of volatility in the market price of a company’s securities, shareholder derivative lawsuits and/or securities class action litigation has often been instituted against that company. Such litigation, if instituted against us, could result in substantial costs and a diversion of management’s attention and resources.
Stockholders’ percentage of ownership in Arcosa may be diluted in the future.
Stockholders’ percentage ownership in Arcosa may be diluted because of equity issuances for acquisitions, capital market transactions, or otherwise, including, without limitation, equity awards that Arcosa grants to its directors, officers, and employees.
In addition, Arcosa’s restated certificate of incorporation authorizes Arcosa to issue, without the approval of Arcosa’s stockholders, one or more classes or series of preferred stock having such designation, powers, preferences, and relative, participating, optional, and other special rights, including preferences over Arcosa common stock respecting dividends and distributions, as Arcosa’s Board of Directors generally may determine. The terms of one or more classes or series of preferred stock could dilute the voting power or reduce the residual value of Arcosa common stock.
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Item 1B. Unresolved Staff Comments.
None.
Item 1C. Cybersecurity.
Risk Management and Strategy.
Arcosa continues to make cybersecurity a priority as the threat landscape evolves and becomes increasingly complex and sophisticated.
Managing Material Risks & Integrated Overall Risk Management
Arcosa has strategically integrated cybersecurity risk management into its broader risk management framework to promote a company-wide culture of cyber risk awareness. Arcosa's Chief Information Security Officer ("CIO") and Director of Information Security work closely with the IT department to continuously evaluate and address cybersecurity risks in alignment with business objectives, operational needs, and industry-accepted standards, such as the CIS Critical Security Controls and National Institute of Standards and Technology ("NIST") frameworks.
The Company has processes and procedures in place to monitor the prevention, detection, mitigation, and remediation of cybersecurity risks. These include but are not limited to:
•Maintaining a defined and practiced incident response plan;
•Maintaining cyber insurance coverage;
•Employing appropriate incident prevention and detection software, such as antivirus, anti-malware, firewall, endpoint detection, and identity and access management;
•Maintaining a defined disaster recovery policy and employing backup/disaster recovery software, where appropriate;
•Educating, training, and testing employees on information security practices and identification of potential cybersecurity risks and threats;
•Ensuring familiarity and compliance with cybersecurity frameworks where appropriate; and
•Reviewing and evaluating new developments in the cyber threat landscape.
Engaging Third Parties on Risk Management
Recognizing the complexity and evolving nature of cybersecurity risk, the Company engages with a range of external experts, including cybersecurity consultants, in evaluating, monitoring, and testing Arcosa's cyber management systems and related cyber risks. The Company's collaboration with these third parties includes audits, threat and vulnerability assessments, incident response plan testing, company-wide monitoring of cybersecurity risks, and consultation on security enhancements.
Managing Third Party Risk
Arcosa recognizes the risks associated with the use of vendors, service providers, and other third parties that provide information system services, process information on its behalf, or have access to its information systems, and Arcosa has processes in place to oversee and manage these risks. In addition to the minimum security and control standards, these processes include other quality control measures, such as utilizing a third-party security scoring system to evaluate the security posture of current and potential parties. Arcosa also maintains ongoing monitoring to support continuous compliance with its cybersecurity standards.
Risks from Cybersecurity Incidents
Arcosa has not been subject to cybersecurity incidents that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect the Company, its operations, or financial standing.
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Governance
Risk Management Personnel
Arcosa's cybersecurity risk management program is overseen by management at multiple levels. The CIO and Director of Information Security play key roles in assessing, monitoring, and managing the Company's cybersecurity risks with support of dedicated information technology and security personnel. Both the CIO and Director of Information Security have been in their respective roles at Arcosa for 5 years. The CIO has over 40 years of leadership positions in the high tech and IT industries. He is experienced in detailed product and solution development as well as business process operations providing an understanding of how cybersecurity considerations intersect the business. The Director of Information Security and Compliance at Arcosa has more than 20 years of experience architecting, designing, and deploying security solutions based on industrial frameworks.
Monitor Cybersecurity Incidents
The CIO and Director of Information Security are continually informed and updated about the latest developments in cybersecurity, including emerging threats and innovative risk management techniques. They implement and oversee processes for the regular monitoring of our information systems. This includes the deployment of advanced security measures and regular system audits to identify potential vulnerabilities. In the event of a cybersecurity incident, the Company is equipped with a defined and practiced incident response plan. This plan includes immediate actions to mitigate the impact and long-term strategies for remediation and prevention of future incidents.
Board of Director Oversight
The Audit Committee of the Company's Board of Directors is responsible for overseeing the Company's cyber risk. The CIO and other experts, as necessary provide the Audit Committee quarterly updates that encompass a broad range of topics, including but not limited to:
•Current cybersecurity threat landscape and emerging threats;
•Status of ongoing cybersecurity initiatives and strategies;
•Incident reports and learnings from unique cybersecurity events, including those of other companies;
•Compliance status and efforts with regulatory requirements and industry standards; and
•Benchmarked data on the performance of certain aspects of our cybersecurity program relative to our peers.
In addition, the CIO provides updates to the full Board upon request or to update the Board of unique developments, such as regulatory updates or unique vulnerability developments. Our Board is composed of members with diverse expertise including risk management, technology, and finance, equipping them to oversee cybersecurity risks effectively.
Item 2. Properties.
Arcosa’s corporate headquarters are located in Dallas, Texas. We principally operate in various locations throughout the U.S. and in Mexico. Our facilities are considered to be in good condition, well maintained, and adequate for our purposes. Information about the total square footage of our facilities as of December 31, 2023 is as follows:
Approximate Square Feet(1) Approximate Square Feet Located In(1)
Owned Leased U.S. Non-U.S.
(1) Excludes non-operating facilities.
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Our estimated weighted average production capacity utilization for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2023 is reflected by the following percentages:
Production Capacity Utilized(1)
Construction Products(2) 70 %
Engineered Structures 70 %
Transportation Products 45 %
(1) Excludes non-operating facilities.
(2) Includes processing facilities, quarries, and mines.
Mineral Reserves - Overview
Information concerning the Company’s mining properties has been prepared in accordance with the requirements of Subpart 1300 of Regulation S-K (“S-K 1300”), which first became applicable to the Company for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021. These requirements differ from the previously applicable disclosure requirements of SEC Industry Guide 7. Among other differences, S-K 1300 requires the Company to disclose its mineral resources in addition to its proven and probable mineral reserves, as of the end of their most recently completed fiscal year both in the aggregate and for each of their individually material mining properties. As of December 31, 2023, the Company did not have any individually material mining properties.
The terms “mineral resource,” “measured mineral resource,” “indicated mineral resource,” “inferred mineral resource,” “mineral reserve,” “proven mineral reserve,” and “probable mineral reserve,” whether singular or plural, are defined and used in accordance with S-K 1300. Under S-K 1300, mineral resources may not be classified as “mineral reserves” unless the determination has been made by a qualified person that the mineral resources can be the basis of an economically viable project.
The Company’s estimates of mineral reserves and mineral resources are determined internally by competent professionals, including engineers and geologists, using industry best practices and internal controls. These estimates are based on geologic data, mineral ownership information, and current or proposed operating plans. Our mineral reserves are proven and probable reserves that could be economically and legally extracted or produced at the time of the reserve determination, considering grade and quality of the minerals and all material modifying factors. These estimates are periodically updated to reflect past mining production, updated mine plans, new exploration information, and other geologic or mining data. Acquisitions or dispositions of mining properties will also change these estimates. Changes in mining or processing methods may increase or decrease the recovery basis for the estimates. The ability to update or modify the estimates of our mineral reserves is restricted to competent geologists and mining engineers and material modifications are documented. Our estimates of mineral reserves and mineral resources, and supporting information, have been assessed by the John T. Boyd Company, a qualified person, which is unaffiliated with the Company and conforms to the requirements under S-K 1300 for qualified persons. For more information related to the risks associated with the estimates of mineral reserves and mineral resources, see Item 1A “Risk Factor - Risks Related to our Business and Operations.”
Mining Properties
During the year ended December 31, 2023, we produced 31.5 million tons of natural aggregates and specialty materials from our mining and processing operations located in the United States and Canada, all of which, we believe, have adequate road and/or railroad access. The Company reports its mining operations primarily through the following commodity groupings:
Natural Aggregates – includes operations which specialize in the production of sand, gravel, limestone, and stabilized material. Our aggregates operations are grouped into the “Texas” and “All Other” geographic regions and shipments from an individual quarry or stationary crushing location are generally limited in geographic scope because the cost of transportation to customers is high relative to the value of the product itself.
Specialty Materials – includes operations which produce lightweight aggregates, select natural aggregates, and milled or processed specialty building products and agricultural products. Since specialty materials have a much wider, multi-state distribution area due to their higher value relative to their distribution costs as compared to natural aggregates, we do not group our specialty materials operations by geographic region.
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Our active operations as of December 31, 2023 included 49 that produce and distribute natural aggregates and 13 that produce, process, and distribute specialty materials. In addition to our active operations, we control interests in 20 inactive and greenfield (undeveloped) mining properties. We also own and operate recycled aggregates (i.e., recycled concrete products) facilities which are not dependent on mineral reserves.
The following map illustrates the locations of our active mining operations as of December 31, 2023, excluding stand-alone processing facilities:
The following table summarizes, by major commodity group and geographic region, the status for our mining properties as of December 31, 2023:
Number of Properties
Producing Inactive Total
Natural aggregates:
Specialty materials 13 4 17
Our active mining operations include 61 surface mines and one underground mine. The operations extract materials from surficial or near-surface alluvial and bedrock deposits. Mining methods utilized at our surface operations include conventional truck/shovel excavation and dredge mining. Our single underground mine in Pennsylvania utilizes mechanized room-and-pillar mining methods.
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Processing operations to produce sand and gravel and crushed stone consist of mechanized crushing, washing, and sizing. Stabilized sand is mixed in a pug mill. Specialty materials may be subjected to additional processing – such as milling and grinding, roasting (in kilns), and/or pelletizing – depending on the product specifications. The following table summarizes, by major commodity group, the annual production history over the preceding three years for our mining properties:
Annual Production (million tons)
Specialty materials 4.0 4.6 5.3
Our ownership or leasehold interest in our mining properties – both active and undeveloped – is 100%. Rights to mine the properties are controlled through our ownership in fee and/or long-term lease agreements with third parties.
Our mining operations are subject to a wide range of laws, ordinances, and regulations and require various governmental approvals and permits. Federal, state, and local authorities regulate the operations with respect to matters such as employee health and safety, permitting and licensing requirements, air quality standards, water quality standards, plant and wildlife protection, the reclamation and restoration of mining properties after mining has been completed, the discharge of materials into the environment, surface subsidence from underground mining, and the effects of mining on groundwater quality and availability. We have obtained all material permits currently required to conduct our present mining operations.
Mineral Reserves
We controlled an estimated 1.2 billion tons of mineral reserves as of December 31, 2023. Reported mineral reserves include only quantities that are owned in fee or under lease – approximately 581 million tons or 48% are located on owned land and 621 million tons or 52% are located on leased land. The economic viability of our reserves was determined using average selling prices ranging from $3.00 to $104.14 per ton, depending on the location and market.
Our mineral reserves, on average, represent approximately 30 years at current production levels within the natural aggregates business and approximately 105 years at current production levels within the specialty materials business. However, certain operations may have more limited reserves and may not be able to expand. Approximately 969 million tons or 81% of the reported mineral reserves are attributable to active mining operations.
As of December 31, 2023, the Company’s estimated proven and probable mineral reserves by major commodity group and geographic region are as follows:
Estimated Mineral Reserves (million tons)
Proven Probable Total Owned Leased
Natural aggregates:
Quantities of mineral reserves were estimated from geologic analysis of exploration results and the application of economic and mining parameters appropriate to the individual deposits. Estimated mineral reserves have been adjusted to account for anticipated process dilutions and losses during mining and processing involved in producing saleable products. Economic viability of the reported mineral reserves has been demonstrated using three-year trailing average product prices on a per-property basis.
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Mineral Resources
We controlled an estimated 117.3 million tons of mineral resources as of December 31, 2023, exclusive of our reported mineral reserves. Our mineral resource estimates are based on an initial assessment using average selling price assumptions ranging from $7.02 to $119.57 per ton, depending on the location and market. The following table summarizes our mineral resources by major commodity group and geographic region as of December 31, 2023:
Estimated Mineral Resources (million tons)
Measured Indicated Inferred Total
Natural aggregates:
Our inferred mineral resources have been estimated on the basis of limited geologic evidence. Mineral resources, that are not mineral reserves, do not have a demonstrated economic viability at this time; however, of the 77.9 million tons of inferred mineral resources, 29.4 million tons or 38% are attributable to 10 active mining operations.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings.
See Note 15 of the Consolidated Financial Statements regarding legal proceedings.
Item 4. Mine Safety Disclosures.
The information concerning mine safety violations or other regulatory matters required by Section 1503(a) of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and Item 104 of Regulation S-K is included in Exhibit 95 to this Form 10-K.
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PART II
Item 5. Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Mattersand Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.
Shares of our common stock are listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “ACA,” which began “regular-way” trading on November 1, 2018. Our transfer agent and registrar is American Stock Transfer & Trust Company.
Holders
At December 31, 2023, we had 996 record holders of common stock. Because many of our shares are held by brokers and other institutions on behalf of stockholders, we are unable to estimate the total number of stockholders represented by these record holders.
Dividends
The timing, declaration, amount, and payment of future dividends to Arcosa's stockholders falls within the discretion of the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors' decisions regarding the payment of future dividends will depend on many factors, such as Arcosa's financial condition, earnings, capital requirements, debt service obligations, covenants related to our debt service obligations, industry practice, legal requirements, regulatory constraints, access to the capital markets, and other factors that the Board of Directors deems relevant. Arcosa cannot guarantee that it will continue to pay any dividend in the future.
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Performance Graph
The following Performance Graph and related information shall not be deemed“soliciting material” or to be “filed” with the SEC, nor shall such information beincorporated by reference into any future filing under the Securities Act of 1933 orSecurities Exchange Act of 1934, each as amended, except to the extent that theCompany specifically incorporates it by reference into such filing.
The following graph compares the Company's cumulative total stockholder return during the five-year period ended December 31, 2023 with the S&P Small Cap 600 Index and the S&P Small Cap 600 Construction & Engineering Industry Index. The data in the graph assumes $100 was invested in each index at the closing price on December 31, 2018 and assumes the reinvestment of dividends.
Copyright Standard and Poor’s, Inc. Used with permission. All rights reserved.
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Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
This table provides information with respect to purchases by the Company of shares of its common stock during the quarter ended December 31, 2023:
(1) These columns include the following transactions during the three months ended December 31, 2023: (i) the surrender to the Company of 3,441 shares of common stock to satisfy tax withholding obligations in connection with the vesting of restricted stock issued to employees and (ii) the purchase of 200,000 shares of common stock on the open market as part of the stock repurchase program.
(2) In December 2022, the Company’s Board of Directors authorized a new $50.0 million share repurchase program effective January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2024 to replace a program of the same amount that expired on December 31, 2022. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company repurchased 200,000 shares at a cost of $13.8 million. Under the previous program, the Company repurchased 298,629 shares at a cost of $15.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2022. As of December 31, 2023, the Company has approximately $36.2 million available for share repurchases under the current program.
Item 6. Reserved.
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Item 7.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”) is intended to provide a reader of our financial statements with a narrative from the perspective of our management on our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, and certain other factors that may affect our future results. Our MD&A is presented in the following sections:
•Company Overview
•Market Outlook
•Executive Overview
•Results of Operations
•Liquidity and Capital Resources
•Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments
•Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
•Recent Accounting Pronouncements
•Forward-Looking Statements
Our MD&A should be read in conjunction with our Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data,” of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Company Overview
Arcosa, Inc. and its consolidated subsidiaries (“Arcosa,” “Company,” “we,” or “our”), headquartered in Dallas, Texas, is a provider of infrastructure-related products and solutions with leading brands serving construction, engineered structures, and transportation markets in North America. Arcosa is a Delaware corporation and was incorporated in 2018 as an independent, publicly-traded company, listed on the New York Stock Exchange.
Market Outlook
•Within our Construction Products segment, market demand remains healthy overall when seasonal weather conditions have been normal, supported by increased infrastructure spending and private non-residential activity. The outlook for single-family residential housing continues to be impacted by higher interest rates and home affordability, which has negatively impacted volumes. We have been successful in managing inflationary cost pressures through proactive price increases.
•Within our Engineered Structures segment, our backlog as of December 31, 2023 provides good production visibility for 2024. Our customers remain committed to taking delivery of these orders. In utility structures, order and inquiry activity continues to be healthy, as customers remain focused on grid hardening and reliability initiatives. The passage of the IRA on August 16, 2022, which included a long-term extension of the PTC for new wind farm projects and introduced new AMP tax credits for companies that domestically manufacture and sell clean energy equipment in the U.S., is a significant catalyst for our wind towers business. As demonstrated by more than $1.1 billion of new orders for delivery through 2028, which we have received since the passage of the IRA, our wind tower business is at the beginning stages of a market recovery. A large portion of these orders will support wind energy expansion projects in the Southwest. As a result, we are opening a new plant in New Mexico, with production at this facility expected to begin in mid-2024.
•Within our Transportation Products segment, our backlog for inland barges as of December 31, 2023 was $253.7 million, up 12.7% compared to December 31, 2022, and fills a significant portion of our planned production capacity for 2024. Our customers remain committed to taking delivery of these orders. Barge order levels fell sharply at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and ensuing high steel prices further negatively impacted demand. In 2022, we reduced capacity in our two active barge operating plants and completed the idling of our Louisiana facility in the fourth quarter of 2021 to further reduce our cost structure. While high steel prices have impacted order levels, the underlying fundamentals for a dry barge replacement cycle remain in place. The fleet continues to age, new builds have not kept pace with scrapping, and utilization rates are high. As a result, order inquiries have been strong, and we received orders of $86.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2023 for both hopper and tank barges for 2024 delivery. Demand for steel components is increasing relative to 2020 and 2021 cyclical lows as the near-term outlook for the new railcar market indicates a stable level of replacement demand.
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Executive Overview
Recent Developments
On December 20, 2023, we completed the acquisition of certain assets and liabilities of Lake Point Holdings, LLC and Lake Point Restoration LLC (collectively "Lake Point"), a Florida based natural aggregates business in our Construction Products segment, for a total purchase price of $65.0 million. The acquisition was funded with $60.0 million of borrowings under our revolving credit facility and cash on hand.
Financial Operations and Highlights
•Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2023 increased 2.9% to $2.3 billion compared to the year ended December 31, 2022, driven by higher revenues in Construction Products and Transportation Products, partially offset by lower revenues in Engineered Structures resulting from the divestiture of the storage tanks business on October 3, 2022, which contributed $188.9 million to revenues in the prior year.
•Operating profit for the year ended December 31, 2023 of $217.3 million decreased $131.7 million compared to the year ended December 31, 2022 due to the divestiture of the storage tanks business, which resulted in a net decrease of $223.7 million year-over-year. Excluding the impact of the divested business in both years, operating profit increased $92.0 million, driven by higher pricing and asset sale gains in Construction Products, increased volumes in Transportation Products, and AMP tax credits in Engineered Structures.
•As a percentage of revenue, selling, general, and administrative expenses was 11.3% for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to 11.7% in the prior year. Selling, general, and administrative expenses were relatively unchanged for the year ended December 31, 2023, when compared to the prior year, as the elimination of costs from the storage tanks business were largely offset by increased compensation-related costs.
•The effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2023 was 18.7% compared to 22.3% for the year ended December 31, 2022. See Note 10, “Income Taxes” to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
•Net income for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $159.2 million compared with $245.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2022.
Unsatisfied Performance Obligations (Backlog)
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022 our backlog of firm orders was as follows:
(in millions)
Engineered Structures:
Utility, wind, and related structures $ 1,367.5 $ 671.3
Transportation Products:
Approximately 43% of the unsatisfied performance obligations for our utility, wind, and related structures in our Engineered Structures segment is expected to be delivered during 2024, approximately 27% is expected to be delivered during 2025, and the remainder is expected to be delivered through 2028. All of the unsatisfied performance obligations for inland barges in our Transportation Products segment are expected to be delivered during 2024.
Results of Operations
The following discussion of Arcosa’s results of operations should be read in connection with “Forward-Looking Statements” and Item 1A, “Risk Factors”. These items provide additional relevant information regarding the business of Arcosa, its strategy and various industry conditions which have a direct and significant impact on Arcosa’s results of operations, as well as the risks associated with Arcosa’s business.
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Overall Summary
Revenues
Year Ended December 31, Percent Change
($ in millions)
Eliminations (0.4) — (0.1)
2023 versus 2022
•Revenues increased by 2.9%. Excluding the impact of the storage tanks divestiture, revenues increased 12.4%.
•Revenues from Construction Products increased primarily due to higher pricing across our aggregate and specialty materials businesses and additional revenues from our recent trench shoring acquisition.
•Excluding the impact of the storage tanks divestiture, revenues from Engineered Structures increased 7.4% primarily due to increased volumes in our utility structures business, partially offset by lower pricing due to product mix, and lower volumes in our wind towers business.
•Revenues from Transportation Products increased due to higher volumes in both inland barge and steel components.
2022 versus 2021
•Revenues increased by 10.1%.
•Revenues from Construction Products increased primarily due to increased pricing across our aggregate and specialty materials businesses and higher volumes from recently acquired businesses.
•Revenues from Engineered Structures increased primarily due to increased pricing in all product lines.
•Revenues from Transportation Products increased primarily due to higher deliveries in steel components, partially offset by lower tank barge deliveries.
Operating Costs
Operating costs are comprised of cost of revenues; selling, general, and administrative expenses; impairment charges; and gains or losses on property disposals.
Year Ended December 31, Percent Change
(in millions)
Eliminations (0.4) — (0.1)
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2023 versus 2022
•Operating costs increased 10.4%. Excluding the impact of the storage tanks divestiture on both periods, operating costs increased 8.4%.
•Operating costs for Construction Products increased primarily due to additional costs from recently acquired businesses and operating inefficiencies in our specialty materials business, partially offset by an increase in gains recognized on the sale of depleted land.
•Operating costs for utility, wind, and related structures within Engineered Structures increased primarily due to higher volumes in our utility structures business, partially offset by lower volumes and AMP tax credits in our wind towers business.
•Operating costs for Transportation Products increased primarily due to higher volumes in inland barge and steel components.
•Depreciation, depletion, and amortization increased due to recent acquisitions and organic growth investments, partially offset by the impact of the storage tanks divestiture.
•As a percentage of revenue, selling, general, and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2023 was 11.3% compared to 11.7% for the year ended December 31, 2022. When compared to the prior year, selling, general, and administrative expenses were relatively unchanged for the year ended December 31, 2023 as the elimination of costs from the storage tanks business were largely offset by increased compensation-related costs.
2022 versus 2021
•Operating costs decreased 1.8%. Excluding the $189.0 million gain on the sale of our storage tanks business within Engineered Structures, operating costs increased 8.0%.
•Cost of revenues for Construction Products increased primarily due to inflationary-related cost increases, including diesel, cement, and process fuels and higher volumes from recently acquired businesses.
•Excluding the gain from the sale of the storage tanks business, operating costs for Engineered Structures increased primarily due to higher steel raw material prices.
•Cost of revenues for Transportation Products increased primarily due to increased steel component volumes and higher steel raw material costs in inland barges.
•Depreciation, depletion, and amortization increased primarily due to recent acquisitions, including the fair value mark up of long-lived assets.
•As a percentage of revenue, selling, general, and administrative expenses for the year ended December 31, 2022 was 11.7% compared to 12.6% for the year ended December 31, 2021.
Operating Profit (Loss)
Year Ended December 31, Percent Change
(in millions)
2023 versus 2022
•Operating profit decreased 37.7%, driven by the divestiture of the storage tanks business. Excluding the impact of the storage tanks divestiture on both periods, operating profit increased $92.0 million, or 77.4%.
•Operating profit in Construction Products increased primarily due to higher asset sale gains, increased pricing across the segment and the benefit recognized on a holdback obligation, partially offset by operating inefficiencies in our specialty materials business.
•Excluding the impact of the storage tanks divestiture, operating profit in Engineered Structures increased by 16.1% primarily due to the recognition of the AMP tax credits, partially offset by a decline in volumes in our wind towers business and lower margins in our utility structure business.
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•Operating profit in Transportation Products increased primarily due to higher volumes and improved margins in both inland barge and steel components.
2022 versus 2021
•Operating profit increased 225.3%, a large portion of which related to the $189.0 million gain on sale of the storage tanks business. Excluding the gain, operating profit increased $52.7 million, or 49.1%.
•Operating profit in Construction Products increased primarily due to increased pricing and volumes from recently acquired businesses, partially offset by inflationary-related cost increases, including diesel, cement, and process fuels.
•Operating profit in Engineered Structures increased by 34.1%, excluding the gain on the sale of the storage tanks business, primarily due to higher revenues and improved margins in our utility structures and storage tanks businesses as well as improved pricing across all product lines.
•Operating profit in Transportation Products increased primarily due to higher volumes and improved margins in our steel components business.
For a further discussion of revenues, costs, and the operating results of individual segments, see Segment Discussion below.
Other Income and Expense
Other, net (income) expense consists of the following items:
Year Ended December 31,
(in millions)
Interest income $ (4.7) $ (1.1) $ —
Foreign currency exchange transactions (1.7) 3.3 0.6
Other, net (income) expense $ (6.7) $ 1.8 $ 0.3
•Other, net expense due to foreign currency exchange transactions decreased by $5.0 million in 2023, primarily driven by increased volatility in the U.S. dollar to Mexican peso exchange rate as well as foreign currency impacts on the sale of the storage tanks business in Mexico.
Income Taxes
The income tax provision for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021 was $36.7 million, $70.4 million, and $14.0 million, respectively. The effective tax rate for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021 was 18.7%, 22.3%, and 16.7%, respectively. The effective tax rates differ from the federal tax rate of 21.0% due to AMP tax credits, tax effects of foreign currency translations, state income taxes, prior year true-ups, and statutory depletion deductions. The decrease in our effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2023 was largely due to AMP tax credits and the tax effects of foreign currency translations. For a reconciliation of the federal tax rate to our effective tax rate, see Note 10 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
See Note 10 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for a further discussion of income taxes.
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Segment Discussion
Construction Products
Year Ended December 31, Percent Change
($ in millions)
Revenues:
Operating costs:
2023 versus 2022
•Revenues increased 8.4% primarily due to increased pricing across our product lines in our aggregates and specialty materials businesses. Higher volumes in recycled aggregates were largely offset by lower volumes in natural aggregates and specialty materials. Revenues from our trench shoring business increased 18.9%, driven by revenue from the acquisition completed in the first quarter of 2023 and higher organic volumes.
•Cost of revenues increased 6.5%, due to increased costs from the acquired shoring business, higher recycled aggregates volumes, and operating inefficiencies in our specialty materials business. These costs were partially offset by a $5 million reduction in a holdback obligation owed on a previous acquisition. As a percent of revenues, cost of revenues decreased to 78.3% in current period, compared to 79.7% in the prior period.
•Selling, general, and administrative expenses increased 6.6%, driven by additional costs from recently acquired businesses. As a percentage of revenues, selling, general, and administrative costs decreased to 10.7% compared to 10.9% in the previous year.
•Operating profit increased by 43.6%, partially due to gain recognized on the sales of depleted land. Excluding the gain, operating profit increased 27.2%, driven by increased pricing across the segment and the benefit recognized on a holdback obligation, partially offset by operating inefficiencies in our specialty materials business.
•Depreciation, depletion, and amortization expense increased primarily due to recent acquisitions and organic growth investments.
2022 versus 2021
•Revenues increased 15.9% partially due to recent acquisitions, which on a combined basis accounted for approximately half of the increase in segment revenues. The additional increase in revenues was driven by strong pricing gains across our product lines in our aggregates and specialty materials businesses, partially offset by overall lower volumes from legacy operations. Revenues from our trench shoring business increased 19.8%, driven by higher volumes and increased pricing.
•Cost of revenues increased 16.9%, partially due to higher volumes as well as additional depreciation, depletion, and amortization expense from recently acquired businesses. Cost of revenues also increased due to higher inflationary-related costs, including diesel, cement, and process fuels, across our businesses. As a percent of revenues, cost of revenues increased slightly.
•Selling, general, and administrative expenses increased 11.7%, driven by additional costs from recently acquired businesses. As a percentage of revenues, selling, general, and administrative costs in the legacy businesses declined to 10.9% compared to 11.3% in the previous year.
•Operating profit increased by 16.0%, in line with revenue.
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•Depreciation, depletion, and amortization expense increased primarily due to recent acquisitions, including the impact of the fair value mark up of long-lived assets.
Engineered Structures
Year Ended December 31, Percent Change
($ in millions)
Revenues:
Operating costs:
Selling, general, and administrative expenses 65.9 73.6 74.0 (10.5) (0.5)
Gain on sale of storage tanks business (6.4) (189.0) —
Impairment charge — — 2.9
2023 versus 2022
•Revenues decreased 12.8% resulting from the sale of the storage tanks business, which was completed on October 3, 2022. Revenue from utility, wind, and related structures increased 7.4% primarily due to increased volumes in our utility structures business, partially offset by lower pricing due to product mix, and lower volumes in our wind towers business.
•Cost of revenues decreased 11.6% largely due to the elimination of costs from our storage tanks business. Cost of revenues for utility, wind, and related structures increased due to higher volumes in our utility structures business, partially offset by lower volumes and AMP tax credits recognized in our wind towers business.
•Selling, general, and administrative expenses decreased 10.5% primarily due to the elimination of costs from our storage tanks business. Selling, general, and administrative expenses for utility, wind, and related structures increased largely due to higher compensation-related costs.
•The divestiture of the storage tanks business resulted in a net decrease in operating profit of $223.7 million due to an additional gain on sale of $6.4 million recorded in the first quarter of 2023 compared to $230.1 million of operating profit in the prior year. Excluding the impact of the divestiture in both periods, operating profit increased $12.4 million or 16.1% primarily due to $25.3 million of net benefit recognized from AMP tax credits in our wind towers business, partially offset by lower margins in our utility structures business, driven by product mix, and decreased wind tower volumes.
2022 versus 2021
•Revenues increased 7.3%, driven by increased pricing across all product lines, partially offset by lower overall volumes and the sale of the storage tanks business, which was completed on October 3, 2022.
•Cost of revenues increased 5.2%, primarily driven by higher steel raw material prices, partially offset by lower overall volumes and the elimination of costs for storage tanks in the fourth quarter following the sale.
•Selling, general, and administrative expenses were substantially unchanged as increased costs in utility structures were offset by the elimination of costs from storage tanks in the fourth quarter following the sale.
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•Operating profit increased significantly, driven by the $189.0 million gain recognized on sale of our storage tanks business during the fourth quarter. Excluding the gain, operating profit increased $30.0 million or 34.1% primarily due to higher revenues and improved margins in our utility structures and storage tanks businesses as well as improved pricing across all product lines. The increase was partially offset by a $7.7 million increase to operating profit in 2021 related to the resolution of a customer dispute.
Unsatisfied Performance Obligations (Backlog)
As of December 31, 2023, the backlog for utility, wind, and related structures was $1,367.5 million compared to $671.3 million as of December 31, 2022. Approximately 43% of the unsatisfied performance obligations for our utility, wind, and related structures in our Engineered Structures segment is expected to be delivered during 2024, approximately 27% is expected to be delivered during 2025, and the remainder is expected to be delivered through 2028.
Transportation Products
Year Ended December 31, Percent Change
($ in millions)
Revenues:
Operating costs:
Gain on disposition of property, plant, equipment, and other assets — — (0.5)
2023 versus 2022
•Revenues increased 36.6% due to higher volumes and improved pricing of inland barges and steel components.
•Cost of revenues increased by 28.0% reflecting higher volumes during the current year. As a percent of revenues, cost of revenues decreased to 83.6% in the current year, compared to 89.2% in the prior year.
•Selling, general, and administrative expenses increased 11.4%, primarily due to increased expenses from participation in trade remedy proceedings involving certain imports of freight rail couplers from China and Mexico, as well as higher compensation-related expenses, but decreased as a percentage of revenues to 5.9% in the current year, compared to 7.2% in the prior year.
•Operating profit increased significantly, outpacing the percentage increase to revenues, driven by enhanced operating leverage associated with higher volumes and improved margins across both businesses.
2022 versus 2021
•Revenues increased 3.8% led by a 41.7% increase in steel components revenues due to increased deliveries resulting from improving demand conditions in the North American railcar market. The segment increase was partially offset by a 12.0% decrease in revenues from inland barges, reflecting continued weak demand conditions resulting from historically high steel prices.
•Cost of revenues increased by 2.0%, driven by higher steel component volumes, partially offset by lower tank barge volumes.
•Selling, general, and administrative expenses increased 4.6% due to higher overall volumes and increased legal expenses.
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•Operating profit increased by 79.7% due to higher overall volumes and improved margins in our steel components business.
Unsatisfied Performance Obligations (Backlog)
As of December 31, 2023, the backlog for inland barges was $253.7 million compared to $225.1 million as of December 31, 2022. All of the backlog for inland barges is expected to be delivered during 2024.
Corporate
Year Ended December 31, Percent Change
($ in millions)
2023 versus 2022
•Corporate overhead costs decreased 4.8% primarily due to a $8.2 million reduction in acquisition and divestiture-related expenses, partially offset by higher compensation-related expenses.
2022 versus 2021
•Corporate overhead costs decreased 6.1% primarily due to a $1.1 million reduction in acquisition and divestiture-related expenses as well as by $8.7 million for a legal settlement recognized in 2021. This decrease was partially offset by higher compensation-related expenses.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Arcosa’s primary liquidity requirement consists of funding our business operations, including capital expenditures, working capital investment, and disciplined acquisitions. Our primary sources of liquidity include cash flow from operations, our existing cash balance, availability under the revolving credit facility, and, as necessary, the issuance of additional long-term debt or equity. To the extent we have available liquidity, we may also consider undertaking new capital investment projects, executing additional strategic acquisitions, returning capital to stockholders, or funding other general corporate purposes.
Cash Flows
The following table summarizes our cash flows from operating, investing, and financing activities for each of the last three years:
Year Ended December 31,
(in millions)
Total cash provided by (required by):
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents $ (55.6) $ 87.5 $ (22.9)
2023 versus 2022
Operating Activities. Net cash provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $261.0 million compared to $174.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2022.
•The changes in current assets and liabilities resulted in a net use of cash of $71.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to a net use of cash of $65.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2022. The current year activity was primarily driven by increased inventories due to higher volumes and increased receivables due to the recognition of AMP tax credits, partially offset by increased accounts payable.
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Investing Activities. Net cash required by investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $285.8 million compared to net cash provided by investing activities of $90.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2022.
•Capital expenditures for the year ended December 31, 2023 increased to $203.5 million compared to $138.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 with the increase primarily driven by investments in two new facilities supporting expansion in our wind tower and utility structures businesses as well as various growth projects in the Construction Products segment.
•Proceeds from the sale of property, plant, and equipment and other assets totaled $36.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to $32.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2022.
•Cash paid for acquisitions, net of cash acquired, was $120.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2023 compared to $75.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2022.
•Proceeds from the sale of the storage tanks business was $2.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2023, which was related to the resolution of certain contingencies from the sale, compared to $271.6 million during the year ended December 31, 2022.
Financing Activities. Net cash required by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2023 was $30.8 million compared to $177.5 million of net cash required by financing activities for the year ended December 31, 2022.
•During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company received net proceeds from borrowings under its revolving credit facility and term loan of $23.2 million, which was used to partially finance the Lake Point acquisition in the fourth quarter of 2023. During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company received net proceeds from borrowings under its revolving credit facility of $30.0 million which was used to partially finance the RAMCO acquisition in the second quarter of 2022. The Company used $155.0 million of cash proceeds from the sale of the storage tanks business in the fourth quarter of 2022 to repay all amounts then borrowed under its revolving credit facility.
•Dividends paid during the year ended December 31, 2023 were $9.8 million, unchanged from the prior year.
•The Company paid $13.8 million during the year ended December 31, 2023 to repurchase common stock under the share repurchase program in effect at the time compared to $15.0 million paid during the year ended December 31, 2022.
2022 versus 2021
Operating Activities. Net cash provided by operating activities for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $174.3 million compared to $166.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2021.
•The changes in current assets and liabilities resulted in a net use of cash of $65.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 compared to a net use of cash of $50.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2021. The decrease was primarily driven by increased receivables and inventories due to increased volumes and higher steel prices.
Investing Activities. Net cash provided by investing activities for the year ended December 31, 2022 was $90.7 million compared to net cash required of $570.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2021.
•Capital expenditures for the year ended December 31, 2022 increased to $138.0 million compared to $85.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2021, driven by investment in various growth projects in our Construction Products and Engineered Structures segments.
•Proceeds of $271.6 million were received during the year ended December 31, 2022 from the sale of the storage tanks business compared to $18.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2021 from the divestiture of an asphalt operation acquired as part of the StonePoint acquisition.
•Proceeds from the sale of property, plant, and equipment and other assets totaled $32.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 compared to $20.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2021.
•Cash paid for acquisitions, net of cash acquired, was $75.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 compared to $523.4 million during for the year ended December 31, 2021.
Financing Activities. Net cash required by financing activities during the year ended December 31, 2022 was $177.5 million compared to $380.9 million of net cash provided by financing activities for the same period in 2021.
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•During the year ended December 31, 2022, the Company received net proceeds from borrowings under its revolving credit facility of $30.0 million, which was used to partially finance the RAMCO acquisition in the second quarter of 2022. Subsequently, the Company used $155.0 million of cash proceeds from the sale of the storage tanks business in the fourth quarter of 2022 to repay all amounts then borrowed under its revolving credit facility. During the year ended December 31, 2021, the Company received proceeds from the issuance of the $400 million senior notes to finance the acquisition of StonePoint. The Company also received proceeds of $100 million from borrowings under the revolving credit facility, of which $75 million were repaid during the year.
•Dividends paid during the year ended December 31, 2022 were $9.8 million, unchanged from the prior year.
•The Company paid $15.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2022 to repurchase common stock under the share repurchase program in effect at the time compared to $9.4 million paid during the year ended December 31, 2021.
Other Investing and Financing Activities
Revolving Credit Facility and Senior Notes
On August 23, 2023, the Company entered into a Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement to increase the revolving credit facility from $500.0 million to $600.0 million, extend the maturity date from January 2, 2025 to August 23, 2028, and refinance and repay in full the remaining balance of the term loan then outstanding under the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement.
As of December 31, 2023, we had $160.0 million of outstanding loans borrowed and there were approximately $22.0 million of letters of credit issued under the revolving credit facility, leaving $418.0 million available for borrowing. The majority of our letter of credit obligations support the Company’s various insurance programs.
The interest rates under the revolving credit facility are variable based on the daily simple or term Secured Overnight Financing Rate ("SOFR"), plus a 10-basis point credit spread adjustment, or an alternate base rate, in each case plus a margin for borrowing. A commitment fee accrues on the average daily unused portion of the revolving facility. The margin for borrowing and commitment fee rate are determined based on Arcosa’s leverage as measured by a consolidated total indebtedness to consolidated EBITDA ratio. The margin for borrowing based on SOFR ranges from 1.25% to 2.00% and was set at 1.50% as of December 31, 2023. The commitment fee rate ranges from 0.20% to 0.35% and was set at 0.25% at December 31, 2023.
The Company's revolving credit facility requires the maintenance of certain ratios related to leverage and interest coverage. As of December 31, 2023, we were in compliance with all such financial covenants. Borrowings under the credit agreement are guaranteed by certain wholly owned subsidiaries of the Company.
On April 6, 2021, the Company issued $400.0 million aggregate principal amount of 4.375% senior notes (the “Notes”) that mature in April 2029. Interest on the Notes is payable semiannually in April and October of each year. The Notes are senior unsecured obligations of the Company and are guaranteed on a senior unsecured basis by each of the Company’s domestic subsidiaries that is a guarantor under our revolving credit and term loan facilities.
We believe, based on our current business plans, that our existing cash, available liquidity, and cash flow from operations will be sufficient to fund necessary capital expenditures and operating cash requirements for the foreseeable future.
Repurchase Program
In December 2022, the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) authorized a new $50.0 million share repurchase program effective January 1, 2023 through December 31, 2024 to replace a program of the same amount that expired on December 31, 2022. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company repurchased 200,000 shares at a cost of $13.8 million. As of December 31, 2023, the Company had a remaining authorization of $36.2 million under the program. Under the previous program, the Company repurchased 298,629 shares at a cost of $15.0 million during the year ended December 31, 2022. See Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Derivative Instruments
In December 2018, the Company entered into a $100.0 million interest rate swap instrument, effective as of January 2, 2019, to reduce the effect of changes in the variable interest rates associated with the first $100.0 million of borrowings under the Company's committed credit facility. In conjunction with the replacement of LIBOR with SOFR as a benchmark for borrowings under the Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, on July 1, 2023, the swap instrument transitioned from LIBOR to SOFR. The instrument effectively fixed the SOFR component of borrowings under the revolving credit facility at a monthly rate of 2.71% until such instrument's termination. The interest rate swap instrument expired in October 2023. See Note 3 and Note 7 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
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Stock-Based Compensation
We have a stock-based compensation plan for our directors, officers, and employees. See Note 13 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Employee Retirement Plans
In 2023, we sponsored an employee savings plan under the 401(k) plan that covered substantially all employees and included a company matching contribution with the investment of the funds directed by the participants. The Company also contributed to a multiemployer defined benefit pension plan under the terms of a collective-bargaining agreement that covered certain union-represented employees at one of our facilities. See Note 11 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments
As of December 31, 2023, we had the following contractual obligations and commercial commitments:
(in millions)
Obligations for purchase of goods and services 198.9 153.2 45.7
See Note 15 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
MD&A discusses our Consolidated Financial Statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the U.S. The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.
On an on-going basis, management evaluates its estimates and judgments based on historical experience and various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.
Our accounting policies are more fully described in Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. We believe the following critical accounting policies include our more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Business Combinations and Allocation of Purchase Price
We account for business combinations under the acquisition method of accounting. As of the date that control in the entity is obtained, the purchase price of the transaction is allocated to the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair values. The purchase price is determined based on the fair value of consideration transferred to and liabilities assumed from the seller as of the date of acquisition. Goodwill is recorded for the excess of the purchase price over the net fair value of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The determination of the acquisition date fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed requires management's judgment and involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions, especially with respect to future expected cash flows, useful lives, and discount rates.
We commonly use an excess earnings method to value acquired mineral reserves and separately identifiable intangible assets, which may include, but are not limited to, customer relationships, permits, and backlog. Significant assumptions used in the valuation of these types of assets may include projected revenues, production costs, capital requirements, customer attrition rates, and discount rates. Changes in the assumptions used could have a significant impact on the estimated acquisition date fair value of the related asset and any future depreciation, depletion, or amortization expense.
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The estimated remaining useful lives of acquired tangible and definite-lived intangible assets are based on the length of time that the assets are expected to provide value to the Company and have a significant impact on current and future period earnings.
Management's estimates of fair value are based on assumptions believed to be reasonable, but which are inherently uncertain and, as a result, actual results may differ from estimates. We may adjust the amounts recognized in an acquisition during a measurement period after the acquisition date. Any such adjustments are the result of subsequently obtaining additional information that existed at the acquisition date regarding the assets acquired or the liabilities assumed. Measurement period adjustments are generally recorded as increases or decreases to goodwill, if any, recognized in the transaction. The cumulative impact of measurement period adjustments on depreciation, amortization, and other income statement items are recognized in the period the adjustment is determined.
Acquisition costs are expensed as incurred and are included in selling, general, and administrative expenses in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. We include results of operations from acquired businesses in our Consolidated Financial Statements from the effective date of the acquisition.
Long-lived Assets
As of December 31, 2023, net property, plant, and equipment and net intangible assets represent 37% and 8% of the Company's total assets, respectively. The methods for recognition of depreciation, depletion, and amortization are based on estimates regarding the expected future economic benefit to the Company and any potential impairment to the value of such assets could be significant. As such, the accounting treatment for these long-lived assets is a critical accounting policy.
Property, plant, and equipment are stated at cost and depreciated or depleted over their estimated useful lives, primarily using the straight-line method. Depletion of mineral reserves is calculated based on estimated proven and probable reserves using the units-of-production method on a quarry-by-quarry basis. Intangible assets, primarily consisting of customer relationships and permits, are recorded at fair value on the date of acquisition and amortized over their estimated useful lives using the straight-line method. See Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information regarding the ranges of estimated useful lives by category of property, plant, and equipment and intangible assets.
We periodically evaluate the carrying value of long-lived assets to be held and used for potential impairment whenever facts and circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset or asset group may not be recoverable. The carrying value of long-lived assets to be held and used is considered impaired when the carrying value is not recoverable through undiscounted future cash flows and the fair value of the asset or asset group is less than their carrying value. Fair value is determined primarily using the anticipated cash flows discounted at a rate commensurate with the risks involved or market quotes as available. Significant estimates and judgments that most significantly impact the impairment analysis may include projected revenues, operating profit, and the remaining useful life over which the asset or asset group is expected to generate cash flows.
Impairment losses on long-lived assets held for sale are determined in a similar manner, except that estimated fair values are reduced by the estimated cost to dispose of the assets.
The Company had no impairment charges during the years ended December 31, 2023 or 2022. Impairment charges of $2.9 million were recognized during the year ended December 31, 2021 related to assets that were classified as held for sale during the year.
Goodwill
Goodwill is required to be tested for impairment annually or on an interim basis whenever events or circumstances change indicating that the carrying amount of the goodwill might be impaired. The quantitative goodwill impairment test is assessed at the “reporting unit” level by comparing the reporting unit's estimated fair value with the carrying amount of its net assets. If the carrying value of the reporting unit exceeds its fair value, an impairment loss is recognized. The goodwill impairment is measured as the excess of the reporting unit's carrying value over its fair value, not to exceed the amount of goodwill allocated to the reporting unit. The estimates and judgments that most significantly affect the fair value calculations are assumptions, consisting of level three inputs, related to revenue and operating profit growth, discount rates, and exit multiples.
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During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company voluntarily changed its annual goodwill impairment assessment date from December 31st to October 1st. This voluntary change is preferable under the circumstances as it better aligns the timing of the assessment with the timing of the Company's strategic planning and forecasting process and gives the Company sufficient time to complete the annual assessment in advance of year-end reporting. The change in accounting principle will not delay, accelerate, or avoid an impairment charge. The Company has determined that it is impracticable to objectively determine projected cash flows and related valuation estimates that would have been used as of October 1 for periods prior to 2023 without the use of hindsight. As such, the Company has applied this change prospectively as of October 1, 2023.
As of December 31, 2023, goodwill totaled $990.7 million. Based on the Company's annual goodwill impairment test, performed at the reporting unit level as of October 1, 2023, the Company concluded that no impairment charges were determined to be necessary and that none of the reporting units evaluated were at risk of failing the goodwill impairment test. A reporting unit is considered to be at risk if its estimated fair value does not exceed the carrying value of its net assets by 10% or more. See Note 1 and Note 6 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
We believe that the assumptions used in our impairment analysis are reasonable; however, given the uncertainties of the economy and its potential impact on our businesses, there can be no assurance that our estimates and assumptions regarding the fair value of our reporting units will prove to be accurate predictions of the future. Additionally, variations in any of these assumptions may result in different calculations in fair value that could result in an impairment charge.
A 100 basis point increase in the discount rate or reduction in the terminal growth rate would not have resulted in an impairment of goodwill for any of our reporting units as of October 1, 2023.
Contingencies and Litigation
The Company is involved in claims and lawsuits and environmental matters incidental to our business. We evaluate our exposure to such claims and suits periodically and establish accruals for these contingencies when probable losses can be reasonably estimated. The reasonably possible loss for such matters, taking into consideration our rights in indemnity and recourse to third parties was $1.1 million as of December 31, 2023 and ranged from $0.3 million to $1.9 million as of December 31, 2022.
Based on information currently available with respect to such claims and lawsuits, including information on claims and lawsuits as to which the Company is aware but for which the Company has not been served with legal process, it is management’s opinion that the ultimate outcome of all such claims and litigation, including settlements, in the aggregate will not have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition for purposes of financial reporting. However, resolution of certain claims or lawsuits by settlement or otherwise, could impact the operating results of the reporting period in which such resolution occurs. For additional information, see Note 15 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Income Taxes
The liability method is used to account for income taxes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to temporary differences between the financial statement carrying amount of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases and other tax attributes using currently enacted tax rates. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in the provision for income taxes in the period that includes the enactment date. Management is required to estimate the timing of the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities, make assumptions about the future deductibility of deferred tax assets, and assess deferred tax liabilities based on enacted law and tax rates for the appropriate tax jurisdictions to determine the amount of such deferred tax assets and liabilities. Changes in the calculated deferred tax assets and liabilities may occur in certain circumstances including statutory income tax rate changes, statutory tax law changes, or changes in the structure or tax status of the Company. The Company assesses whether a valuation allowance should be established against its deferred tax assets based on consideration of all available evidence, both positive and negative, using a more likely than not standard. This assessment considers, among other matters, the nature, frequency, and severity of recent losses; a forecast of future profitability; the duration of statutory carryback and carryforward periods; the Company’s experience with tax attributes expiring unused; and tax planning alternatives.