Koppers Holdings backs 2008 profit and revenue outlook

PITTSBURGH—Koppers Holdings Inc. on Thursday reiterated its 2008 guidance after posting first-quarter results that exceeded the company's expectations.

Koppers said it still expects to earnings per share growth of 10 percent to 13 percent. Based on the company's 2007 profit of $3.03 per share, the guidance implies a profit of $3.33 to $3.42 per share.

Analysts polled by Thomson Financial expect a profit of $3.37 per share for the year.

Koppers still expects sales to climb 5 percent to 8 percent this year, implying sales of $1.4 billion to $1.44 billion. Analysts expect sales of $1.48 billion.

Koppers Holdings makes carbon compounds, which are used to make aluminum, steel and chemicals, and treated wood, which is used to make railroad ties and utility poles.

Koppers shares fell $1.23, or 2.5 percent, to close at $48.86.