Wabash National’s 1Q Operating Loss Narrows

The company lost $141.1 million, or $4.64 a share, in the first quarter, compared with a loss of $28.3 million, or 94 cents, in last year’s first quarter.

Its operating loss fell to $11.2 million for the quarter, compared with an operating loss of $27.3 million for the first quarter of 2009.

Net sales grew to $78.3 million, from $77.9 million a year ago, Wabash said late Tuesday.

Chief Executive Officer Dick Giromini said Wabash was “pleased to deliver significant year-over-year improvement in our operating results,” and it is optimistic about the rest of 2010.

“Additionally, industry forecasters expect trailer demand to increase throughout 2010, with demand improving significantly in 2011 and 2012,” Giromini said in a statement. “We remain focused on execution and believe Wabash is well positioned to succeed as the industry and economy continue to recover.” he said.