Jacuzzi Brands reported net earnings of $7.5 million, or 10 cents per share, for the second quarter ended April 2, up 27.1% vs. the same period in 2004. Net sales of $337.6 million were up 1.4% compared with the 2004 second quarter. Sales of plumbing products were up 15%. The plumbing products and bath products segments each reported increases in operating income, which offset a slight decline in operating income at Rexair, the company said.
Higher sales in the plumbing products segment were driven by the continued growth in all of the company's principal markets, the market's increasing conversion from copper pipe to PEX tubing in plumbing applications, and the full realization of price increases implemented during the latter half of fiscal 2004 to offset higher raw material costs. Strong sales volume and favorable pricing continue to offset higher scrap iron and steel costs leading to the improved margins, the company said.