Waters reports sales of $431 million for first quarter 2014

Waters Corporation (NYSE/WAT) reported today first quarter 2014 sales of $431 million, essentially flat versus sales of $430 million in the first quarter of 2013. In the quarter, the effect of foreign currency translation was neutral to sales growth. On a GAAP basis, earnings per diluted share (E.P.S.) for the first quarter of 2014 were $0.82 compared to $1.39 for the first quarter of 2013. On a non-GAAP basis, E.P.S. were down 14% to $0.92 compared to $1.07 in the prior year quarter.

Commenting on the quarter, Douglas A. Berthiaume, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, said, "Sales in the quarter were below our expectations due primarily to a combination of slower growth in Asia and delays in the release of capital budgets, most significantly in the United States. Foreign currency translation and a higher operating tax rate negatively affected E.P.S in comparison to the 2013 first quarter's results."