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Fourth Quarter Highlights
Hasbro, Inc. today reported 2008 fourth quarter and full-year results. For the year, the Company reported net earnings of $306.8 million, compared to $333.0 million in 2007. For the year, worldwide net revenues were $4.0 billion, an increase of $184.0 million or 5%, compared to $3.8 billion a year ago. For the fourth quarter, the Company reported net revenues of $1.2 billion, compared to $1.3 billion a year ago. The Company reported net earnings for the quarter of $93.6 million, compared to $133.7 million in 2007. “In a challenging environment, we delivered both revenue and earnings per share growth in 2008, while also continuing to make investments in our future,” said Brian Goldner, President and Chief Executive Officer. “As we look to the year ahead, given the severity of the downturn in global economies, we are focused on keeping costs down, managing our operating cash flow and continuing to invest in our business for the long term. That said, we believe the underlying strength of our brands and commitment to our strategy should enable Hasbro to grow revenue in 2009, absent a material deterioration in economic conditions or the value of foreign currencies.” U.S. and Canada segment net revenues were $2.4 billion, an increase of $113.0 million or 5% compared to $2.3 billion in 2007. The growth in revenue is attributable to STAR WARS, PLAYSKOOL, NERF, EASY BAKE, G.I. JOE and trading card and board games, including GUESS WHO, PICTUREKA and SCRABBLE. Additionally, TRANSFORMERS, MARVEL and LITTLEST PET SHOP continued to contribute significantly to the segment. The U.S. and Canada segment reported an operating profit of $283.2 million, compared to $287.8 million in 2007. International segment net revenues were $1.5 billion, an increase of $54.5 million or 4% compared to $1.4 billion in 2007. The results reflect growth in LITTLEST PET SHOP, STAR WARS, PLAYSKOOL, NERF, TWISTER and GUESS WHO. Additionally, TRANSFORMERS and MARVEL continued to contribute significantly to the segment. |