Leggett & Platt may divest Store Fixtures division

The EPS impact of the non-cash charge is expected to be 65 cents per share. Apart from this impairment, the company has made no update to the underlying full year EPS guidance issued in April.

As previously disclosed, the Store Fixtures group's 2013 performance fell short of expectations.  Performance did not rebound during the second quarter of 2014 as expected, with the deterioration of revenue and profitability most pronounced in May and June.

Consequently, it has become apparent that the current market value of the Store Fixtures unit has fallen below its recorded book value. This stems from lower current expectations of future revenue and profitability, reflecting reduced market demand for the shelving, counters, showcases and garment racks the company supplies to major retailers.

The company has engaged an investment banker and is exploring strategic alternatives, including the possible divestiture of this business unit.

Leggett & Platt is the leading U.S. manufacturer of: a) components for residential furniture and bedding; b) office furniture components; c) drawn steel wire; d) automotive seat support and lumbar systems; e) carpet underlay; f) adjustable bed bases; and g) bedding industry machinery.

Leggett & Platt