BOISE CASCADE Co

Previous wording

We recorded income from operations of $147.0 million during the three months ended June 30, 2024, compared with income from operations of $190.0 million during the three months ended June 30, 2023. In our Wood Products segment, income decreased $31.3 million to $72.8 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024, from $104.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2023, due primarily to lower EWP sales prices, as well as higher wood fiber and conversion costs. These decreases in segment income were offset partially by higher EWP sales volumes. In our BMD segment, income decreased $13.2 million to $85.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024, from $98.6 million for the three months ended June 30, 2023, driven by increased selling and distribution expenses and depreciation and amortization expense of $10.9 million and $4.4 million, respectively. These decreases were offset partially by decreased general and administrative expenses of $2.0 million. Gross margins were flat when compared with the same quarter in the prior year. These changes are discussed further in "Our Operating Results" below.

Current wording

We recorded income from operations of $117.4 million during the three months ended September 30, 2024, compared with income from operations of $185.6 million during the three months ended September 30, 2023. In our Wood Products segment, income decreased $45.7 million to $53.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, from $99.6 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023, due primarily to lower EWP and plywood sales prices, as well as higher conversion costs. In addition, lower I-joist sales volumes also contributed to the decrease in segment income. In our BMD segment, income decreased $22.3 million to $74.8 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, from $97.1 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023, driven by increased selling and distribution expenses and depreciation and amortization expense of $10.0 million and $5.1 million, respectively. In addition, gross margin decreased $7.7 million, driven by lower margins on commodity products and EWP, offset partially by improved margins on general line products. These changes are discussed further in "Our Operating Results" below.

Previous wording

We ended second quarter 2024 with $922.1 million of cash and cash equivalents and $395.7 million of undrawn committed bank line availability, for total available liquidity of $1,317.8 million. We had $445.7 million of outstanding debt at June 30, 2024. We used $27.5 million of cash during the six months ended June 30, 2024, principally to fund seasonal working capital increases and capital spending, treasury stock purchases, dividends paid on our common stock, and tax withholding payments on stock-based awards. A further description of our cash sources and uses for the six-month comparative periods are discussed in "Liquidity and Capital Resources" below.

Current wording

We ended third quarter 2024 with $761.6 million of cash and cash equivalents and $395.7 million of undrawn committed bank line availability, for total available liquidity of $1,157.3 million. We had $450.0 million of outstanding debt at September 30, 2024. We used $188.0 million of cash during the nine months ended September 30, 2024, as cash provided by operations was offset by capital spending, dividends paid on our common stock, and treasury stock purchases. A further description of our cash sources and uses for the nine-month comparative periods are discussed in "Liquidity and Capital Resources" below.

Previous wording

Demand for the products we manufacture, as well as the products we purchase and distribute, is correlated with new residential construction, residential repair-and-remodeling activity and light commercial construction. Residential construction, particularly new single-family construction, is the key demand driver for the products we manufacture and distribute. Current industry forecasts for 2024 U.S. housing starts are slightly below actual housing starts of 1.42 million in 2023, as reported by the U.S. Census Bureau. Home affordability remains a challenge for many consumers due to the cost of housing, as well as persistent elevated mortgage rates. However, with low unemployment, an undersupply of existing housing stock available for sale, and favorable demographic trends, new residential construction is expected to remain an important source of supply for homebuyers. Multi-family starts have declined sharply from historic levels due to increased capital costs for developers, combined with elevated supply. Regarding home improvement spending, the age of U.S. housing stock and elevated levels of homeowner equity will continue to provide a favorable backdrop for repair-and-remodel spending. However, while home improvement spending is expected to remain healthy compared to history, renovation spending has softened due to consumer uncertainty, labor availability, higher borrowing costs, and building material inflation. Ultimately, macroeconomic factors, the level and expectations for mortgage rates, home affordability, home equity levels, home size, and other factors will likely influence the near-term demand environment for the products we manufacture and distribute.

Current wording

Demand for the products we manufacture, as well as the products we purchase and distribute, is correlated with new residential construction, residential repair-and-remodeling activity, and light commercial construction. Residential construction, particularly new single-family construction, is the key demand driver for the products we manufacture and distribute. As reported by the U.S. Census Bureau, housing starts were 1.42 million in 2023. Current industry forecasts for U.S. housing starts are approximately 1.35 million in 2024 followed by 2025 starts at or modestly above 1.40 million. For the nine months ended September 2024, single-family starts are outpacing 2023 levels by 10% whereas multi-family starts have declined sharply from historic levels due to increased capital costs for developers, combined with historic levels of multi-family unit completions in 2024. Home affordability remains a challenge for many consumers due to home prices and the cost of financing, with the level of mortgage rates also limiting the supply of existing housing stock available for sale. Large homebuilders are addressing affordability challenges by reducing home sizes and plan complexity, as well as offering mortgage rate buydowns. New residential construction will continue to be an important source of supply for the demand created by undersupplied housing, favorable demographic trends, and low unemployment. We expect 2025 to reflect modest growth in home improvement spending, as the age of U.S. housing stock and elevated levels of homeowner equity will continue to provide a favorable backdrop for repair-and-remodel spending. Ultimately, macroeconomic factors, the level and expectations for mortgage rates, home affordability, home equity levels, home size, and other factors will influence the near-term demand environment for the products we manufacture and distribute.

Previous wording

The following tables set forth our operating results in dollars and as a percentage of sales for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023:

Current wording

The following tables set forth our operating results in dollars and as a percentage of sales for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023:

Previous wording

Set forth below are historical U.S. housing starts data, segment sales volumes and average net selling prices for the principal products sold by our Wood Products segment, and sales mix and gross margin information for our BMD segment for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023:

Current wording

Set forth below are historical U.S. housing starts data, segment sales volumes and average net selling prices for the principal products sold by our Wood Products segment, and sales mix and gross margin information for our BMD segment for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023:

Previous wording

For the three months ended June 30, 2024, total sales decreased $17.5 million, or 1%, to $1,797.7 million from $1,815.2 million during the three months ended June 30, 2023. For the six months ended June 30, 2024, total sales increased $83.5 million, or 2%, to $3,443.1 million from $3,359.5 million for the same period in the prior year. As described below, the change in sales was driven by the changes in sales prices and volumes for the products we manufacture and distribute with single-family residential construction activity being the key demand driver of our sales. In second quarter 2024, total U.S. housing starts decreased 7%, while single-family housing starts increased 7%, compared with the same period in 2023. On a year-to-date basis through June 2024, total housing starts decreased 3%, while single-family housing starts increased 16%, compared with the same period in 2023. Average composite panel prices for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 were 14% and 18% higher, respectively, than in the same period in the prior year, as reflected by Random Lengths composite panel pricing. Average composite lumber prices for the three and six months ended June 30, 2024 were 6% and 4% lower, respectively, than in the same period in the prior year, as reflected by Random Lengths composite lumber pricing.

Current wording

For the three months ended September 30, 2024, total sales decreased $120.7 million, or 7%, to $1,713.7 million from $1,834.4 million during the three months ended September 30, 2023. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, total sales decreased $37.2 million, or 1%, to $5,156.8 million from $5,194.0 million for the same period in the prior year. As described below, the change in sales was driven by the changes in sales prices and volumes for the products we manufacture and distribute with single-family residential construction activity being the key demand driver of our sales. In third quarter 2024, total U.S. housing starts and single-family housing starts decreased 3% and 1%, respectively, compared with the same period in 2023. On a year-to-date basis through September 2024, total housing starts decreased 3%, while single-family housing starts increased 10%, compared with the same period in 2023. Average composite panel prices for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 were 19% lower and 4% higher, respectively, than in the same period in the prior year, as reflected by Random Lengths composite panel pricing. Average composite lumber prices for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024 were 13% and 7% lower, respectively, than in the same period in the prior year, as reflected by Random Lengths composite lumber pricing.

Previous wording

Wood Products. Sales, including sales to our BMD segment, decreased $40.5 million, or 8%, to $489.8 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024, from $530.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2023. The decrease in sales was driven by lower plywood sales volumes of 13% resulting in decreased sales of $20.7 million. Plywood sales volumes decreased as we shifted a higher proportion of our internally produced veneer into EWP production, given the change in demand for EWP. Lower sales prices for LVL and I-joists (collectively referred to as EWP) of 7% and 6%, respectively, resulted in decreased sales of $10.3 million and $8.3 million, respectively. In addition, other sales, including lumber and residual byproducts, decreased $14.3 million. These decreases were offset partially by increased sales volumes for LVL and I-joists of 8% and 5%, respectively, resulting in increased sales of $11.8 million and $5.9 million, respectively.

Current wording

Wood Products. Sales, including sales to our BMD segment, decreased $61.3 million, or 12%, to $453.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, from $515.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. The decrease in sales was driven by lower plywood sales prices of 13% resulting in decreased sales of $19.2 million, and lower sales prices for LVL and I-joists (collectively referred to as EWP) of 5% and 6%, respectively, resulting in decreased sales of $7.2 million and $6.7 million, respectively. Sales volumes for I-joists decreased 8% resulting in decreased sales of $10.7 million, while sales volumes for LVL and plywood were flat. I-joist sales volumes are influenced by multiple factors, including the level of housing starts, competition from other wood-based products, and an increasing proportion of concrete floor applications that limit wood floor opportunity. In addition, other sales, including lumber and residual byproducts, decreased $9.8 million.

Previous wording

For the six months ended June 30, 2024, sales, including sales to our BMD segment, decreased $9.0 million, or 1%, to $958.8 million from $967.7 million for the same period in the prior year. The decrease in sales was driven by lower sales prices for LVL and I-joists (collectively referred to as EWP) of 7% and 6%, respectively, resulting in decreased sales of $21.4 million and $16.1 million, respectively. Plywood sales volumes decreased 11% resulting in decreased sales of $33.3 million. Plywood sales volumes decreased as we shifted a higher proportion of our internally produced veneer into EWP production, given the change in demand for EWP. In addition, other sales, including lumber and residual byproducts, decreased $28.8 million. These decreases were offset partially by higher sales volumes for LVL and I-joists of 18% and 20%, respectively, resulting in increased sales of $46.8 million and $43.9 million, respectively. EWP sales volumes increased due to an increase in single-family housing starts.

Current wording

For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, sales, including sales to our BMD segment, decreased $70.3 million, or 5%, to $1,412.6 million from $1,482.9 million for the same period in the prior year. The decrease in sales was driven by lower sales prices of 6% for both LVL and I-joists, resulting in decreased sales of $27.8 million and $21.8 million, respectively. Plywood sales volumes and sales prices decreased 7% and 4%, respectively, resulting in decreased sales of $33.4 million and $16.1 million, respectively. Plywood sales volumes decreased as we shifted a higher proportion of our internally produced veneer into EWP production, given the change in demand for EWP. In addition, other sales, including lumber and residual byproducts, decreased $38.6 million. These decreases were partially offset by higher sales volumes for LVL and I-joists of 12% and 9%, respectively, resulting in increased sales of $46.2 million and $32.3 million, respectively.

Previous wording

Building Materials Distribution. Sales increased $18.7 million, or 1%, to $1,655.2 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024, from $1,636.5 million for the three months ended June 30, 2023. Compared with the same quarter in the prior year, the overall increase in sales was driven by a sales volume increase of 2%, offset partially by a sales price decrease of 1%. Excluding the impact of the BROSCO acquisition on October 2, 2023, sales would have decreased by 2%. By product line, commodity sales decreased 6%, or $34.8 million; general line product sales increased 8%, or $55.0 million; and EWP sales (substantially all of which are sourced through our Wood Products segment) decreased less than 1%, or $1.5 million.

Current wording

Building Materials Distribution. Sales decreased $102.8 million, or 6%, to $1,567.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, from $1,670.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2023. Compared with the same quarter in the prior year, the overall decrease in sales was driven by a sales price decrease of 6%, as sales volumes were flat. Excluding the impact of the BROSCO acquisition on October 2, 2023, sales would have decreased by 9%. By product line, commodity sales decreased 12%, or $76.2 million; general line product sales increased 4%, or $27.1 million; and EWP sales (substantially all of which are sourced through our Wood Products segment) decreased 14%, or $53.7 million.

Previous wording

During the six months ended June 30, 2024, sales increased $144.5 million, or 5%, to $3,160.2 million from $3,015.8 million for the same period in the prior year. The overall increase in sales was driven by a sales volume increase of 6%, offset partially by a sales price decrease of 1%. Excluding the impact of the BROSCO acquisition, sales would have increased by 2%. By product line, commodity sales decreased 3%, or $29.4 million; general line product sales increased 12%, or $138.4 million; and sales of EWP (substantially all of which are sourced through our Wood Products segment) increased 5%, or $35.5 million.

Current wording

During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, sales increased $41.6 million, or 1%, to $4,727.7 million from $4,686.1 million for the same period in the prior year. The overall increase in sales was driven by a sales volume increase of 4%, offset partially by a sales price decrease of 3%. Excluding the impact of the BROSCO acquisition, sales would have decreased by 2%. By product line, commodity sales decreased 6%, or $105.5 million; general line product sales increased 9%, or $165.4 million; and sales of EWP decreased 2%, or $18.3 million.

Previous wording

Materials, labor, and other operating expenses (excluding depreciation) increased $14.2 million, or 1%, to $1,440.7 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024, compared with $1,426.4 million during the same period in the prior year. In our Wood Products segment, materials, labor, and other operating expenses decreased as higher costs of OSB (used in the manufacture of I-joists), were offset by improved cost leveraging from higher EWP sales volumes and lower plywood sales volumes, compared with second quarter 2023. However, materials, labor, and other operating expenses as a percentage of sales (MLO rate) in our Wood Products segment increased by 430 basis points, primarily as the result of lower EWP sales prices. In BMD, the increase in materials, labor, and other operating expenses compared with second quarter 2023 was driven by higher purchased materials costs as a result of the BROSCO acquisition. The BMD segment MLO rate increased 20 basis points, driven by lower margin percentages for our commodity and EWP sales, offset partially by higher margin percentages on our general line sales.

Current wording

Materials, labor, and other operating expenses (excluding depreciation) decreased $66.5 million, or 5%, to $1,375.7 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, compared with $1,442.2 million during the same period in the prior year. In our Wood Products segment, materials, labor, and other operating expenses decreased due to lower sales volumes, offset partially by increased labor costs, compared with third quarter 2023. However, materials, labor, and other operating expenses as a percentage of sales (MLO rate) in our Wood Products segment increased by 650 basis points, primarily as the result of lower EWP and plywood sales prices. In BMD, the decrease in materials, labor, and other operating expenses compared with third quarter 2023 was driven by lower purchased materials costs as a result of a decrease in product prices. The BMD segment MLO rate decreased 50 basis points, driven by higher margin percentages on general line products, offset partially by lower margins on commodity and EWP products.

Previous wording

For the six months ended June 30, 2024, materials, labor, and other operating expenses (excluding depreciation) increased $91.0 million, or 3%, to $2,748.1 million, compared with $2,657.1 million in the same period in the prior year. In our Wood Products segment, materials, labor, and other operating expenses increased due to higher EWP sales volumes and higher costs of OSB (used in the manufacture of I-joists), compared with the first six months of 2023. Labor and other manufacturing costs were also higher compared with the same period in the prior year. The MLO rate in our Wood Products segment increased by 290 basis points, due primarily to lower EWP sales prices. In BMD, the increase in materials, labor, and other operating expenses compared with the first six months of 2023 was driven by higher purchased materials costs as a result of an increase in sales volumes, as well as the BROSCO acquisition. However, the BMD segment MLO rate was flat primarily due to higher margin percentages on our general line sales, offset by lower margins on our EWP sales compared with the first six months of 2023.

Current wording

For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, materials, labor, and other operating expenses (excluding depreciation) increased $24.6 million, or 1%, to $4,123.8 million, compared with $4,099.2 million in the same period in the prior year. In our Wood Products segment, materials, labor, and other operating expenses increased due to higher EWP sales volumes and higher costs of OSB (used in the manufacture of I-joists), compared with the first nine months of 2023. Labor costs were also higher compared with the same period in the prior year. The MLO rate in our Wood Products segment increased by 410 basis points, due primarily to lower EWP and plywood sales prices. In BMD, the increase in materials, labor, and other operating expenses compared with the first nine months of 2023 was driven by higher purchased materials costs due primarily to the BROSCO acquisition. However, the BMD segment MLO rate decreased 20 basis points, driven by higher margin percentages on our general line sales, offset by lower margins on our EWP sales compared with the first nine months of 2023.

Previous wording

Depreciation and amortization expense increased $3.6 million, or 12%, to $34.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024, compared with $30.7 million during the same period in the prior year. For the six months ended June 30, 2024, these expenses increased $8.3 million, or 13%, to $70.2 million, compared with $61.9 million in the same period in the prior year. The increase in both periods was due primarily to the BROSCO acquisition, as well as other capital expenditures. For the six months ended June 30, 2024, the increase was also due to $2.2 million of accelerated depreciation recorded in first quarter 2024 for the indefinite curtailment of lumber production at our Chapman, Alabama facility.

Current wording

Depreciation and amortization expense increased $5.4 million, or 17%, to $36.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, compared with $31.5 million during the same period in the prior year. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, depreciation and amortization expense increased $13.7 million, or 15%, to $107.1 million, compared with $93.4 million in the same period in the prior year. The increase in both periods was due to the BROSCO acquisition and other capital expenditures. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, the increase was also due to $2.2 million of accelerated depreciation recorded in first quarter 2024 for the indefinite curtailment of lumber production at our Chapman, Alabama facility.

Previous wording

Selling and distribution expenses, inclusive of the BROSCO acquisition, increased $10.6 million, or 8%, to $149.8 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024, compared with $139.2 million during the same period in the prior year. The increase was due primarily to higher employee-related expense of $6.1 million, offset partially by decreased incentive compensation expense of $1.4 million. In addition, costs related to professional fees, travel and entertainment, and advertising increased $1.6 million and occupancy costs increased $1.5 million. For the six months ended June 30, 2024, selling and distribution expenses increased $25.9 million, or 10%, to $293.9 million, compared with $268.0 million during the same period in 2023, primarily as a result of higher employee-related expenses of $12.7 million. Occupancy and shipping and handling costs increased $2.5 million and $2.3 million, respectively. In addition, costs related to professional fees, travel and entertainment, and advertising increased $3.4 million.

Current wording

Selling and distribution expenses, inclusive of the BROSCO acquisition, increased $9.8 million, or 7%, to $157.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, compared with $147.7 million during the same period in the prior year. The increase was due primarily to higher employee-related expense of $8.1 million, offset partially by decreased incentive compensation expense of $2.1 million. In addition, costs related to professional fees and shipping and handling increased $1.3 million. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, selling and distribution expenses increased $35.7 million, or 9%, to $451.4 million, compared with $415.7 million during the same period in 2023. The increase was due primarily to higher employee-related expenses of $20.9 million, offset partially by decreased incentive compensation expense of $2.7 million. Shipping and handling and occupancy costs increased $2.7 million and $2.6 million, respectively. In addition, costs related to professional fees, travel and entertainment, and advertising increased $4.8 million.

Previous wording

General and administrative expenses decreased $4.2 million, or 14%, to $25.9 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024, compared with $30.1 million for the same period in the prior year. For the six months ended June 30, 2024, general and administrative expenses decreased $5.6 million, or 10%, to $51.1 million, compared with $56.6 million during the same period in 2023. The decrease in both periods was primarily the result of lower incentive compensation and professional fees, offset partially by an increase in employee-related expenses.

Current wording

General and administrative expenses decreased $1.4 million, or 5%, to $26.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, compared with $27.6 million for the same period in the prior year. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, general and administrative expenses decreased $7.0 million, or 8%, to $77.2 million, compared with $84.2 million during the same period in 2023. The decrease in both periods was primarily the result of lower incentive compensation and professional fees, offset partially by an increase in other employee-related expenses.

Previous wording

Wood Products. Segment income decreased $31.3 million to $72.8 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024, compared with $104.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2023. The decrease in segment income was due primarily to lower EWP sales prices, as well as higher wood fiber and conversion costs. These decreases in segment income were offset partially by higher EWP sales volumes.

Current wording

For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, segment income decreased $75.1 million to $197.9 million from $273.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The decrease in segment income was due primarily to lower EWP and plywood sales prices, as well as higher wood fiber and conversion costs. These decreases in segment income were offset partially by higher EWP sales volumes.

Previous wording

For the six months ended June 30, 2024, segment income decreased $10.4 million to $157.9 million from $168.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023. The decline in segment income was driven by increased selling and distribution expenses and depreciation and amortization expense of $27.4 million and $8.4 million, respectively. These decreases in segment income were offset partially by a gross margin increase of $23.1 million, resulting primarily from improved gross margins on general line products, offset partially by lower gross margins on EWP.

Current wording

For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, segment income decreased $32.6 million to $232.7 million from $265.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The decline in segment income was driven by increased selling and distribution expenses and depreciation and amortization expense of $37.4 million and $13.5 million, respectively. These decreases in segment income were offset partially by a gross margin increase of $15.4 million, resulting primarily from improved gross margins on general line products, offset partially by lower gross margins on EWP and commodity products. In addition, general and administrative expenses decreased $3.1 million.

Previous wording

Corporate. Unallocated corporate expenses decreased $1.4 million to $11.2 million for the three months ended June 30, 2024, from $12.6 million for the same period in the prior year. For the six months ended June 30, 2024, unallocated corporate expenses decreased $2.2 million to $21.9 million from $24.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2023. The decrease in both periods was due primarily to lower incentive compensation.

Current wording

Corporate. Unallocated corporate expenses increased $0.3 million to $11.3 million for the three months ended September 30, 2024, from $11.0 million for the same period in the prior year. For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, unallocated corporate expenses decreased $1.9 million to $33.2 million from $35.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2023. The decrease was due primarily to lower incentive compensation.

Previous wording

For the three and six months ended June 30, 2024, we recorded $38.5 million and $71.3 million, respectively, of income tax expense and had an effective rate of 25.5% and 24.8%, respectively. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2023, we recorded $49.4 million and $82.7 million, respectively, of income tax expense and had an effective rate of 25.3% and 25.4%, respectively. For all periods, the primary reason for the difference between the federal statutory income tax rate of 21% and the effective tax rate was the effect of state taxes.

Current wording

For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2024, we recorded $29.8 million and $101.1 million, respectively, of income tax expense and had an effective rate of 24.7% and 24.8%, respectively. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2023, we recorded $49.0 million and $131.7 million, respectively, of income tax expense and had an effective rate of 25.5% and 25.4%, respectively. For all periods, the primary reason for the difference between the federal statutory income tax rate of 21% and the effective tax rate was the effect of state taxes.

Previous wording

We ended second quarter 2024 with $922.1 million of cash and cash equivalents and $445.7 million of debt. At June 30, 2024, we had $1,317.8 million of available liquidity (cash and cash equivalents and undrawn committed bank line availability). Our cash and cash equivalents decreased by $27.5 million during the six months ended June 30, 2024, principally to fund seasonal working capital increases and capital spending, treasury stock purchases, dividends paid on our common stock, and tax withholding payments on stock-based awards. Further descriptions of our cash sources and uses for the six-month comparative periods are noted below.

Current wording

We ended third quarter 2024 with $761.6 million of cash and cash equivalents and $450.0 million of debt. At September 30, 2024, we had $1,157.3 million of available liquidity (cash and cash equivalents and undrawn committed bank line availability). Our cash and cash equivalents decreased by $188.0 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2024, as cash provided by operations was offset by capital spending, dividends paid on our common stock, and treasury stock purchases. Further descriptions of our cash sources and uses for the nine-month comparative periods are noted below.

Previous wording

For the six months ended June 30, 2024, our operating activities generated $169.2 million of cash, compared with $290.2 million of cash generated in the same period in 2023. The $121.1 million decrease in cash provided by operations was due primarily to a greater year-over-year increase in working capital, as well as a decrease in income from operations. Working capital increased $131.6 million during the six months ended June 30, 2024, compared with a $60.2 million increase for the same period in the prior year. In addition, cash paid for taxes, net of refunds, increased $19.9 million compared to the same period in 2023. See "Our Operating Results" in this Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for more information related to factors affecting our operating results.

Current wording

For the nine months ended September 30, 2024, our operating activities generated $343.8 million of cash, compared with $521.1 million of cash generated in the same period in 2023. The $177.4 million decrease in cash provided by operations was due primarily to an increase in working capital, as well as a decrease in income from operations, offset partially by a $13.7 million decrease in cash paid for taxes, net of refunds, compared to the same period in 2023. Working capital increased $94.1 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2024, compared with a $1.1 million decrease for the same period in the prior year. See "Our Operating Results" in this Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations for more information related to factors affecting our operating results.

Previous wording

The increase in working capital during both periods was primarily attributable to higher receivables and inventories, offset by an increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities. The increase in receivables in both periods primarily reflect increased sales of approximately 16% and 41%, comparing sales for the months of June 2024 and 2023 with sales for the months of December 2023 and 2022, respectively. During both the six months ended June 30, 2024 and June 30, 2023, inventories increased due to seasonally higher inventory purchases in our BMD segment for the summer building season. The increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities in both periods was related to the increase in inventories and extended terms offered by certain BMD vendors, offset partially by employee incentive compensation payouts made during the periods.

Current wording

The increase in working capital during the nine months ended September 30, 2024 was primarily attributable to higher inventories and receivables, offset by an increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities. The decrease in working capital during the nine months ended September 30, 2023 was primarily attributable to an increase in accounts payable and decreased inventories, offset partially by higher receivables. The increase in receivables in both periods primarily reflect increased sales of approximately 9% and 30%, comparing sales for the months of September 2024 and 2023 with sales for the months of December 2023 and 2022, respectively. During the nine months ended September 30, 2024 inventories increased in preparation and response to the building season. During the nine months ended September 30, 2023 inventories decreased in our Wood Products segment due to improved demand compared to fourth quarter 2022. However, our BMD segment inventories increased during the nine months ended September 30, 2023 due to seasonal building, steady housing demand, and location expansions. During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, the increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities was primarily related to the increase in inventories, offset partially by employee incentive compensation payouts made during the period. The increase in accounts payable during the nine months ended September 30, 2023 was related to increased purchasing in response to improved demand compared to fourth quarter 2022 and extended terms offered by certain BMD vendors.

Previous wording

During the six months ended June 30, 2024 and 2023, we used $74.1 million and $68.3 million, respectively, of cash for purchases of property and equipment, including business improvement and quality/efficiency projects, replacement and expansion projects, and ongoing environmental compliance. During the six months ended June 30, 2024, we also used $3.4 million of cash for post-transaction closing adjustments related to the BROSCO acquisition. For further discussion on the BROSCO acquisition, see Note 5, Acquisition, of the Condensed Notes to Unaudited Quarterly Consolidated Financial Statements in "Item 1. Financial Statements" of this Form 10-Q. During the six months ended June 30, 2023, we received $1.0 million of earn-out income related to a previous asset sale in our Wood Products segment.

Current wording

During the nine months ended September 30, 2024 and 2023, we used $135.8 million and $99.3 million, respectively, of cash for purchases of property and equipment, including business improvement and quality/efficiency projects, replacement and expansion projects, and ongoing environmental compliance. During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, we also used $5.6 million of cash for acquisitions of businesses and facilities, which consisted of $3.4 million for post-transaction closing adjustments related to the BROSCO acquisition, as well as $2.2 million for acquired assets of a door and millwork operation in Boise, Idaho. For further discussion on these acquisitions, see Note 5, Acquisitions, of the Condensed Notes to Unaudited Quarterly Consolidated Financial Statements in "Item 1. Financial Statements" of this Form 10-Q. During the nine months ended September 30, 2023, we received $1.0 million of earn-out income related to a previous asset sale in our Wood Products segment.

Previous wording

Excluding potential acquisitions, we expect capital expenditures in 2024 to total approximately $250 million to $270 million. We expect our capital spending in 2024 will be for business improvement and quality/efficiency projects, replacement and expansion projects, and ongoing environmental compliance. Our 2024 capital expenditures range includes spending on previously announced projects to add I-joist production capabilities at our Thorsby, Alabama EWP mill and converting a plywood layup line to a parallel laminated veneer line at our Chapman, Alabama plywood facility. At our Oakdale, Louisiana facility, multiple investment projects are planned over the next two years which include upgrade and redesign of the log utilization center, a new veneer dryer and press, and modification of an existing veneer dryer. In addition, our 2024 capital expenditures range includes spending on the previously announced greenfield distribution centers in Texas and South Carolina in our BMD segment. This level of capital expenditures could increase or decrease as a result of several factors, including acquisitions, efforts to further accelerate organic growth, exercise of lease purchase options, our financial results, future economic conditions, availability of engineering and construction resources, and timing and availability of equipment purchases.

Current wording

At our Oakdale, Louisiana facility, multiple investment projects are underway and planned for 2025 which include upgrade and redesign of the log utilization center, a new veneer dryer and press, and modification of an existing veneer dryer. Our 2024 and 2025 capital expenditures range also includes spending on the previously announced greenfield distribution centers in Texas and South Carolina in our BMD segment. These levels of capital expenditures could increase or decrease as a result of several factors, including acquisitions, efforts to further accelerate organic growth, exercise of lease purchase options, our financial results, future economic conditions, availability of engineering and construction resources, and timing and availability of equipment purchases.

Previous wording

During the six months ended June 30, 2024, our financing activities used $120.0 million of cash, including $88.9 million for the repurchase of 677,845 shares of our common stock, $19.1 million for common stock dividend payments, and $11.1 million of tax withholding payments on stock-based awards. During the six months ended June 30, 2024, we did not borrow under our revolving credit facility and therefore have no borrowings outstanding on the facility as of June 30, 2024.

Current wording

During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, our financing activities used $391.6 million of cash, including $220.5 million in common stock dividend payments, $158.5 million for the repurchase of 1,232,345 shares of our common stock, and $11.1 million of tax withholding payments on stock-based awards. During the nine months ended September 30, 2024, we did not borrow under our revolving credit facility and therefore have no borrowings outstanding on the facility as of September 30, 2024.

Previous wording

During the six months ended June 30, 2023, our financing activities used $141.3 million of cash, including $133.0 million for common stock dividend payments, $5.9 million of tax withholding payments on stock-based awards, and $1.5 million for the repurchase of 25,678 shares of our common stock. During the six months ended June 30, 2023, we did not borrow under our revolving credit facility.

Current wording

During the nine months ended September 30, 2023, our financing activities used $149.7 million of cash, including $140.9 million in common stock dividend payments, $5.9 million of tax withholding payments on stock-based awards, and $1.5 million for the repurchase of 25,678 shares of our common stock. During the nine months ended September 30, 2023, we did not borrow under our revolving credit facility.

Previous wording

As of July 21, 2024, we had approximately 7,400 employees. Approximately 18% of these employees work pursuant to collective bargaining agreements. As of July 21, 2024, we had ten collective bargaining agreements. Five agreements covering approximately 470 employees at our Elgin plywood plant, Kettle Falls plywood plant, and Woodinville BMD facility expired on May 31, 2024, but the terms and conditions of these agreements remain in effect pending negotiation of new agreements. One agreement covering approximately 40 employees at our Vancouver BMD facility is set to expire on December 31, 2024, one agreement covering approximately 20 employees at our Billings BMD facility is set to expire on March 31, 2025, and two agreements covering approximately 730 employees at our Oakdale and Florien plywood plants are set to expire on July 15, 2025. The terms and conditions of these agreements will remain in effect after expiration pending negotiation of new agreements. We may not be able to renew these agreements or may renew them on terms that are less favorable to us than the current agreements. If any of these agreements are not renewed or extended upon their termination, we could experience a material labor disruption, strike, or significantly increased labor costs at one or more of our facilities, either in the course of negotiations of a labor agreement or otherwise. Labor disruptions or shortages could prevent us from meeting customer demands or result in increased costs, thereby reducing our sales and profitability.

Current wording

As of October 27, 2024, we had approximately 7,480 employees. Approximately 18% of these employees work pursuant to collective bargaining agreements. As of October 27, 2024, we had ten collective bargaining agreements. One agreement covering approximately 50 employees at our Woodinville BMD facility expired on May 31, 2024, but the terms and conditions of this agreement remain in effect pending negotiation of a new agreement. One agreement covering approximately 40 employees at our Vancouver BMD facility is set to expire on December 31, 2024, one agreement covering approximately 20 employees at our Billings BMD facility is set to expire on March 31, 2025, and two agreements covering approximately 750 employees at our Oakdale and Florien plywood plants are set to expire on July 15, 2025. The terms and conditions of these agreements will remain in effect after expiration pending negotiation of new agreements. We may not be able to renew these agreements or may renew them on terms that are less favorable to us than the current agreements. If any of these agreements are not renewed or extended upon their termination, we could experience a material labor disruption, strike, or significantly increased labor costs at one or more of our facilities, either in the course of negotiations of a labor agreement or otherwise. Labor disruptions or shortages could prevent us from meeting customer demands or result in increased costs, thereby reducing our sales and profitability.