Republic Services, Inc. Reports Second Quarter 2021 Results

Rhea-AI Summary

Republic Services reported a net income of $331.1 million for Q2 2021, a significant increase from $225.5 million in Q2 2020. Adjusted EPS rose to $1.09, up 36% year-over-year. Revenue grew 15% driven by an 8.1% volume increase and a 5.2% rise in core pricing. Year-to-date cash from operations reached $1.5 billion. The company has raised its full-year EPS guidance to $4.00 to $4.05 and free cash flow guidance to $1.45 billion to $1.475 billion, reflecting strong business momentum and operational success.

Positive

• Net income increased 47% year-over-year to $331.1 million.
• Adjusted earnings per share rose 36% to $1.09.
• Revenue grew 15%, with an 8.1% increase in volume.
• Year-to-date cash provided by operations was $1.5 billion, up 11%.
• Adjusted free cash flow increased 38% to $1.0 billion.
• Raised full-year adjusted EPS guidance to $4.00 to $4.05.

Negative

• None.

PHOENIX, July 29, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- Republic Services, Inc. (NYSE: RSG) today reported net income of $331.1 million, or $1.03 per diluted share, for the three months ended June 30, 2021, versus $225.5 million, or $0.71 per diluted share, for the comparable 2020 period. Excluding certain benefits and expenses, on an adjusted basis, net income for the three months ended June 30, 2021 was $349.9 million, or $1.09 per diluted share, versus $256.9 million, or $0.80 per diluted share, for the comparable 2020 period.

"Our second quarter results reflect even further acceleration in our business, which is a direct outcome of continued progress on our strategic priorities," said Jon Vander Ark, president and chief executive officer. "During the second quarter we grew the top line 15 percent, increased adjusted earnings per share by 36 percent and expanded adjusted EBITDA margin 110 basis points. As a result of these strong results we are raising full-year financial guidance for the second time this year."

Second-Quarter 2021 Highlights:

• Second quarter EPS was $1.03 per share, and adjusted EPS, a non-GAAP measure, was $1.09 per share, an increase of 36 percent over the prior year.
• Year-to-date cash provided by operating activities was $1.5 billion, an increase of 11 percent versus the prior year. Adjusted free cash flow, a non-GAAP measure, was $1.0 billion, an increase of 38 percent versus the prior year.
• Year-to-date cash invested in acquisitions was $567 million, or $521 million net of divestitures.
• Year-to-date cash returned to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases was $363 million.
• Second quarter core price increased revenue by 5.2 percent. Core price consisted of 6.5 percent in the open market and 3.0 percent in the restricted portion of the business.
• Second quarter revenue growth from average yield was 2.6 percent and volume increased 8.1 percent.
• Second quarter adjusted EBITDA margin, a non-GAAP measure, was 30.6 percent of revenue and increased 110 basis points from the prior year.
• The Company's average recycled commodity price per ton sold during the second quarter was $170. This represents a sequential increase from the first quarter of $37 per ton and an increase of $69 per ton versus the prior year.
• Republic continued to convert CPI-based contracts to more favorable pricing mechanisms for the annual price adjustment. The Company now has approximately $950 million in annual revenue tied to the water-sewer-trash index or a fixed-rate increase of 3 percent or greater.
• The Company was named to 3BL Media's 100 Best Corporate Citizens list for the second consecutive year. This award recognizes outstanding environmental, social and governance (ESG) transparency and performance among the 1,000 largest U.S. public companies.

Raised Full-Year 2021 Financial Guidance

Republic raised its full-year adjusted diluted EPS guidance to $4.00 to $4.05 and its full-year adjusted free cash flow guidance to $1,450 million to $1,475 million.

Please refer to the Information Regarding Forward-Looking Statements section of this document.

Company Increases Quarterly Dividend

Republic's Board of Directors approved an increase in the quarterly dividend from $0.425 per share to $0.46 per share, which represents an increase of approximately 8 percent.

"We are raising our quarterly dividend by approximately 8 percent," Vander Ark said. "This is the seventeenth consecutive year we've increased our dividend, which demonstrates our commitment to efficiently return cash to shareholders."

Presentation of Certain Non-GAAP Measures

Adjusted diluted earnings per share, adjusted net income, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA margin and adjusted free cash flow are described in the Reconciliation of Certain Non-GAAP Measures section of this document.

About Republic Services
Republic Services, Inc. is a leader in the U.S. environmental services industry. Through its subsidiaries, the Company provides superior customer experience while fostering a sustainable Blue Planet^® for future generations to enjoy a cleaner, safer and healthier world. For more information, visit RepublicServices.com, or follow us at Facebook.com/RepublicServices, @RepublicService on Twitter or Republic Services on LinkedIn.

 

SUPPLEMENTAL UNAUDITED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
AND OPERATING DATA
REPUBLIC SERVICES, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in millions, except per share amounts)
	June 30,				December 31,
	2021				2020
	(Unaudited)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$	34.0			$	38.2
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful accounts and other of $39.1 and $34.7, respectively	1,163.9				1,091.3
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	283.0				392.3
Total current assets	1,480.9				1,521.8
Restricted cash and marketable securities	151.0				149.1
Property and equipment, net	8,816.3				8,726.2
Goodwill	12,476.0				12,046.4
Other intangible assets, net	209.6				173.1
Other assets	788.3				817.4
Total assets	$	23,922.1			$	23,434.0
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	$	728.1			$	779.0
Notes payable and current maturities of long-term debt	135.2				168.1
Deferred revenue	366.6				345.6
Accrued landfill and environmental costs, current portion	117.6				114.5
Accrued interest	65.6				54.6
Other accrued liabilities	901.7				820.2
Total current liabilities	2,314.8				2,282.0
Long-term debt, net of current maturities	8,833.9				8,766.1
Accrued landfill and environmental costs, net of current portion	1,776.7				1,694.7
Deferred income taxes and other long-term tax liabilities, net	1,282.3				1,238.8
Insurance reserves, net of current portion	288.8				281.8
Other long-term liabilities	642.2				681.8
Commitments and contingencies
Stockholders' equity:
Preferred stock, par value $0.01 per share; 50 shares authorized; none issued	—				—
Common stock, par value $0.01 per share; 750 shares authorized; 319.4 and 318.8 issued including shares held    in treasury, respectively	3.2				3.2
Additional paid-in capital	2,787.1				2,741.4
Retained earnings	6,106.0				5,751.8
Treasury stock, at cost; 0.6 and — shares, respectively	(107.2)				(0.1)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax	(10.8)				(12.4)
Total Republic Services, Inc. stockholders' equity	8,778.3				8,483.9
Non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiary	5.1				4.9
Total stockholders' equity	8,783.4				8,488.8
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity	$	23,922.1			$	23,434.0

 

REPUBLIC SERVICES, INC.
UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(in millions, except per share data)
	Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
	2021				2020				2021				2020
Revenue	$	2,812.8			$	2,454.4			$	5,409.2			$	5,008.3
Expenses:
Cost of operations	1,650.7				1,467.9				3,185.0				3,017.9
Depreciation, amortization and depletion	303.0				269.1				585.2				537.7
Accretion	20.7				20.8				41.1				41.7
Selling, general and administrative	315.8				262.1				581.2				539.2
Withdrawal costs - multiemployer pension funds	—				31.6				—				35.9
Loss (gain) on business divestitures and    impairments, net	0.9				5.3				(0.2)				1.4
Restructuring charges	3.8				2.2				6.6				6.0
Operating income	517.9				395.4				1,010.3				828.5
Interest expense	(78.4)				(91.8)				(156.7)				(188.5)
Loss from unconsolidated equity method    investments	(12.4)				(9.4)				(28.9)				(22.6)
Interest income	0.6				3.3				1.4				3.6
Other (loss) income, net	(0.3)				2.6				1.4				1.7
Income before income taxes	427.4				300.1				827.5				622.7
Provision for income taxes	95.4				73.8				199.1				149.6
Net income	332.0				226.3				628.4				473.1
Net income attributable to non-controlling     interests in consolidated subsidiary	(0.9)				(0.8)				(1.4)				(1.3)
Net income attributable to Republic Services, Inc.	$	331.1			$	225.5			$	627.0			$	471.8
Basic earnings per share attributable to Republic     Services, Inc. stockholders:
Basic earnings per share	$	1.04			$	0.71			$	1.96			$	1.48
Weighted average common shares outstanding	319.5				319.0				319.5				319.3
Diluted earnings per share attributable to Republic    Services, Inc. stockholders:
Diluted earnings per share	$	1.03			$	0.71			$	1.96			$	1.47
Weighted average common and common    equivalent shares outstanding	320.0				319.6				319.9				319.9
Cash dividends per common share	$	0.425			$	0.405			$	0.850			$	0.810

 

REPUBLIC SERVICES, INC.
UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(in millions)
	Six Months Ended June 30,
	2021				2020
Cash provided by operating activities:
Net income	$	628.4			$	473.1
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation, amortization, depletion and accretion	626.3				579.4
Non-cash interest expense	34.2				31.2
Stock-based compensation	38.6				19.4
Deferred tax provision	42.5				11.4
Provision for doubtful accounts, net of adjustments	11.4				15.9
Loss (gain) on disposition of assets and asset impairments, net	0.2				(1.3)
Withdrawal costs - multiemployer pension funds	—				35.9
Environmental adjustments	4.8				(0.4)
Loss from unconsolidated equity method investments	28.9				22.6
Other non-cash items	(1.7)				(2.6)
Change in assets and liabilities, net of effects from business acquisitions and divestitures:
Accounts receivable	(68.1)				45.5
Prepaid expenses and other assets	88.8				192.1
Accounts payable	54.4				(60.8)
Capping, closure and post-closure expenditures	(26.8)				(23.2)
Remediation expenditures	(21.7)				(28.3)
Other liabilities	42.6				23.6
Cash provided by operating activities	1,482.8				1,333.5
Cash used in investing activities:
Purchases of property and equipment	(608.6)				(654.7)
Proceeds from sales of property and equipment	8.2				12.3
Cash used in acquisitions and investments, net of cash and restricted cash acquired	(576.6)				(95.1)
Cash received from business divestitures	45.9				26.8
Purchases of restricted marketable securities	(16.6)				(16.2)
Sales of restricted marketable securities	14.9				5.6
Other	(0.3)				(0.5)
Cash used in investing activities	(1,133.1)				(721.8)
Cash (used in) provided by financing activities:
Proceeds from notes payable and long-term debt, net of fees	2,737.9				2,441.0
Proceeds from issuance of senior notes, net of discount and fees	—				985.5
Payments of notes payable and long-term debt	(2,756.1)				(3,493.9)
Issuances of common stock	(9.5)				(6.7)
Purchases of common stock for treasury	(40.1)				(98.8)
Cash dividends paid	(271.1)				(257.9)
Distributions paid to non-controlling interests in consolidated subsidiary	(1.2)				(0.2)
Contingent consideration payments	(11.8)				(7.4)
Cash used in financing activities	(351.9)				(438.4)
(Decrease) increase in cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents	(2.2)				173.3
Cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents at beginning of period	114.2				177.4
Cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents at end of period	$	112.0			$	350.7

You should read the following information in conjunction with our audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto appearing in our Annual Report on Form 10-K as of and for the year ended December 31, 2020. All amounts below are in millions and as a percentage of our revenue, except per share data.

REVENUE

The following table reflects our total revenue by line of business for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020:

	Three Months Ended June 30,														Six Months Ended June 30,
	2021							2020							2021							2020
Collection:
Residential	$	611.7			21.7	%		$	573.6			23.4	%		$	1,204.7			22.3	%		$	1,142.1			22.8	%
Small-container	843.4				30.0			742.4				30.3			1,654.0				30.6			1,548.1				30.9
Large-container	600.7				21.4			501.3				20.4			1,140.7				21.1			1,053.7				21.0
Other	14.8				0.5			12.6				0.5			29.0				0.5			24.9				0.5
Total collection	2,070.6				73.6			1,829.9				74.6			4,028.4				74.5			3,768.8				75.2
Transfer	383.7							330.5							715.0							652.4
Less: intercompany	(208.1)							(180.4)							(393.2)							(366.0)
Transfer, net	175.6				6.2			150.1				6.1			321.8				5.9			286.4				5.7
Landfill	651.4							564.0							1,214.0							1,122.3
Less: intercompany	(283.3)							(248.3)							(532.5)							(500.6)
Landfill, net	368.1				13.1			315.7				12.9			681.5				12.6			621.7				12.4
Environmental solutions	29.3				1.0			30.1				1.2			59.3				1.1			76.9				1.6
Other:
Recycling processing and commodity sales	103.0				3.7			73.5				3.0			190.6				3.5			141.3				2.8
Other non-core	66.2				2.4			55.1				2.2			127.6				2.4			113.2				2.3
Total other	169.2				6.1			128.6				5.2			318.2				5.9			254.5				5.1
Total revenue	$	2,812.8			100.0	%		$	2,454.4			100.0	%		$	5,409.2			100.0	%		$	5,008.3			100.0	%

The following table reflects changes in components of our revenue, as a percentage of total revenue, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020:

	Three Months Ended June 30,						Six Months Ended June 30,
	2021			2020			2021			2020
Average yield	2.6	%		2.5	%		2.5	%		2.7	%
Fuel recovery fees	0.9			(0.8)			0.2			(0.5)
Total price	3.5			1.7			2.7			2.2
Volume	8.1			(7.4)			3.6			(3.9)
Change in workdays	—			—			(0.3)			0.2
Recycling processing and commodity sales	1.0			0.1			0.9			—
Environmental solutions	—			(0.9)			(0.4)			(0.7)
Total internal growth	12.6			(6.5)			6.5			(2.2)
Acquisitions / divestitures, net	2.0			0.7			1.5			0.9
Total	14.6	%		(5.8)	%		8.0	%		(1.3)	%
Core price	5.2	%		4.7	%		4.7	%		5.0	%

Average yield is defined as revenue growth from the change in average price per unit of service, expressed as a percentage. Core price is defined as price increases to our customers and fees, excluding fuel recovery fees, net of price decreases to retain customers. We also measure changes in average yield and core price as a percentage of related-business revenue, defined as total revenue excluding recycled commodities and fuel recovery fees, to determine the effectiveness of our pricing strategies. Average yield as a percentage of related-business revenue was 2.7% and 2.6% for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, respectively, and 2.7% and 2.9% for the same respective periods in 2020. Core price as a percentage of related-business revenue was 5.4% and 5.0% for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, respectively, and 5.0% and 5.3% for the same respective periods in 2020.

The following table reflects changes in average yield and volume, as a percentage of total revenue by line of business, for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020:

	Three Months Ended June 30,												Six Months Ended June 30,
	2021						2020						2021						2020
	Yield			Volume			Yield			Volume			Yield			Volume			Yield			Volume
Collection:
Residential	3.7	%		(0.2)	%		2.2	%		(1.6)	%		3.5	%		(0.4)	%		2.3	%		(1.4)	%
Small-container	2.2	%		8.6	%		4.1	%		(8.8)	%		2.7	%		2.6	%		4.0	%		(4.5)	%
Large-container	3.1	%		13.7	%		1.6	%		(12.4)	%		2.0	%		5.4	%		2.5	%		(6.6)	%
Landfill:
Municipal solid waste	2.4	%		5.3	%		2.9	%		(3.5)	%		2.4	%		4.5	%		3.0	%		(2.1)	%
Construction and demolition waste	1.8	%		8.6	%		7.6	%		0.2	%		3.0	%		3.5	%		5.8	%		9.2	%
Special waste	—	%		26.5	%		—	%		(17.2)	%		—	%		13.5	%		—	%		(10.6)	%

COST OF OPERATIONS

The following table summarizes the major components of our cost of operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020 (in millions of dollars and as a percentage of revenue):

	Three Months Ended June 30,														Six Months Ended June 30,
	2021							2020							2021							2020
Labor and related benefits	$	571.5			20.3	%		$	514.2			21.0	%		$	1,127.2			20.8	%		$	1,071.1			21.4	%
Transfer and disposal costs	220.0				7.8			189.2				7.7			412.4				7.6			387.8				7.7
Maintenance and repairs	259.7				9.2			232.2				9.5			497.0				9.2			479.5				9.6
Transportation and subcontract costs	190.5				6.8			161.0				6.5			359.4				6.6			328.3				6.5
Fuel	92.4				3.3			58.7				2.4			171.3				3.2			138.3				2.8
Disposal fees and taxes	87.6				3.1			77.0				3.1			165.3				3.1			154.3				3.1
Landfill operating costs	68.9				2.5			65.4				2.7			126.3				2.3			130.2				2.6
Risk management	52.7				1.9			51.6				2.1			112.0				2.1			113.5				2.3
Other	107.4				3.8			118.6				4.8			214.1				4.0			225.7				4.5
Subtotal	1,650.7				58.7			1,467.9				59.8			3,185.0				58.9			3,028.7				60.5
Bridgeton insurance recovery	—				—			—				—			—				—			(10.8)				(0.2)
Total cost of operations	$	1,650.7			58.7	%		$	1,467.9			59.8	%		$	3,185.0			58.9	%		$	3,017.9			60.3	%

These cost categories may change from time to time and may not be comparable to similarly titled categories used by other companies. As such, you should take care when comparing our cost of operations by cost component to that of other companies and of ours for prior periods.

SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES

The following table summarizes our selling, general and administrative expenses for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020 (in millions of dollars and as a percentage of revenue):

	Three Months Ended June 30,														Six Months Ended June 30,
	2021							2020							2021							2020
Salaries	$	222.5			7.9	%		$	181.0			7.4	%		$	416.8			7.7	%		$	372.4			7.5	%
Provision for doubtful accounts	7.2				0.3			11.0				0.4			11.4				0.2			15.9				0.3
Other	70.7				2.5			70.1				2.9			137.6				2.5			150.9				3.0
Subtotal	$	300.4			10.7	%		$	262.1			10.7	%		$	565.8			10.4	%		$	539.2			10.8	%
Accelerated vesting of     compensation expense for     CEO transition	$	15.4			0.5	%		$	—			—	%		$	15.4			0.3	%		$	—			—	%
Total selling, general and    administrative expenses	$	315.8			11.2	%		$	262.1			10.7	%		$	581.2			10.7	%		$	539.2			10.8	%

These cost categories may change from time to time and may not be comparable to similarly titled categories used by other companies. As such, you should take care when comparing our selling, general and administrative expenses by cost component to those of other companies and of ours for prior periods.

RECONCILIATION OF CERTAIN NON-GAAP MEASURES

EBITDA

The following table calculates EBITDA, which is not a measure determined in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (U.S. GAAP), for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020:

	Three Months Ended June 30,								Six Months Ended June 30,
	2021				2020				2021				2020
Net income attributable to Republic Services, Inc.	$	331.1			$	225.5			$	627.0			$	471.8
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	0.9				0.8				1.4				1.3
Provision (benefit) for income taxes	95.4				73.8				199.1				149.6
Other (income) loss, net	0.3				(2.6)				(1.4)				(1.7)
Interest income	(0.6)				(3.3)				(1.4)				(3.6)
Interest expense	78.4				91.8				156.7				188.5
Depreciation, amortization and depletion	303.0				269.1				585.2				537.7
Accretion	20.7				20.8				41.1				41.7
EBITDA	$	829.2			$	675.9			$	1,607.7			$	1,385.3

We believe that presenting EBITDA is useful to investors because it provides important information concerning our operating performance exclusive of certain non-cash and other costs. EBITDA demonstrates our ability to execute our financial strategy, which includes reinvesting in existing capital assets to ensure a high level of customer service, investing in capital assets to facilitate growth in our customer base and services provided, maintaining our investment grade credit ratings and minimizing debt, paying cash dividends, repurchasing our common stock, and maintaining and improving our market position through business optimization. This measure has limitations. Although depreciation, depletion, amortization and accretion are considered operating costs in accordance with U.S. GAAP, they represent the allocation of non-cash costs generally associated with long-lived assets acquired or constructed in prior years. Our definition of EBITDA may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies.

Adjusted Earnings

Reported diluted earnings per share was $1.03 and $1.96 for the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, respectively, compared to $0.71 and $1.47 for the same respective periods in 2020. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020, we recorded a number of charges and other expenses and gains that impacted our EBITDA, pre-tax income, net income attributable to Republic Services, Inc. (net income – Republic) and diluted earnings per share. For comparative purposes, certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to conform to current year presentation. The table below sets forth such measures on an adjusted basis to exclude such charges, other expenses and gains:

		Three Months Ended June 30, 2021																Three Months Ended June 30, 2020
										Net				Diluted												Net				Diluted
						Pre-tax				Income -				Earnings								Pre-tax				Income -				Earnings
		EBITDA				Income				Republic				per Share				EBITDA				Income				Republic				per Share
As reported		$	829.2			$	427.4			$	331.1			$	1.03			$	675.9			$	300.1			$	225.5			$	0.71
Loss from unconsolidated equity method investments		12.4				—				—				—				9.4				—				—				—
Restructuring charges (2)		3.8				3.8				2.8				0.01				2.2				2.2				1.6				—
Loss on business divestitures and impairments, net (1)		0.9				0.9				0.6				—				5.3				5.3				6.4				0.02
Withdrawal costs - multiemployer pension funds		—				—				—				—				31.6				31.6				23.4				0.07
Accelerated vesting of compensation expense for CEO transition		15.4				15.4				15.4				0.05				—				—				—				—
Total adjustments		32.5				20.1				18.8				0.06				48.5				39.1				31.4				0.09
As adjusted		$	861.7			$	447.5			$	349.9			$	1.09			$	724.4			$	339.2			$	256.9			$	0.80

(1) The aggregate impact to adjusted diluted earnings per share totals to less than $0.01 for the three months ended June 30, 2021.

(2) The aggregate impact to adjusted diluted earnings per share totals to less than $0.01 for the three months ended June 30, 2020.

		Six Months Ended June 30, 2021																Six Months Ended June 30, 2020
										Net				Diluted												Net				Diluted
						Pre-tax				Income -				Earnings								Pre-tax				Income -				Earnings
		EBITDA				Income				Republic				per Share				EBITDA				Income				Republic				per Share
As reported		$	1,607.7			$	827.5			$	627.0			$	1.96			$	1,385.3			$	622.7			$	471.8			$	1.47
Loss from unconsolidated equity method investments		28.9				—				—				—				22.6				—				—				—
Restructuring charges		6.6				6.6				4.9				0.01				6.0				6.0				4.4				0.02
(Gain) Loss on business divestitures and    impairments, net (1)		(0.2)				(0.2)				(0.2)				—				1.4				1.4				3.5				0.02
Withdrawal costs - multiemployer pension funds		—				—				—				—				35.9				35.9				26.5				0.08
Accelerated vesting of compensation expense for    CEO transition		15.4				15.4				15.4				0.05				—				—				—				—
Bridgeton insurance recovery		—				—				—				—				(10.8)				(10.8)				(8.2)				(0.03)
Total adjustments		50.7				21.8				20.1				0.06				55.1				32.5				26.2				0.09
As adjusted		$	1,658.4			$	849.3			$	647.1			$	2.02			$	1,440.4			$	655.2			$	498.0			$	1.56

(1) The aggregate impact to adjusted diluted earnings per share totals to less than $0.01 for the six months ended June 30, 2021.

We believe that presenting adjusted EBITDA, adjusted pre-tax income, adjusted net income - Republic, and adjusted diluted earnings per share, which are not measures determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP, provide an understanding of operational activities before the financial impact of certain items. We use these measures, and believe investors will find them helpful, in understanding the ongoing performance of our operations separate from items that have a disproportionate impact on our results for a particular period. We have incurred comparable charges, costs and recoveries in prior periods, and similar types of adjustments can reasonably be expected to be recorded in future periods. Our definition of adjusted EBITDA, adjusted pre-tax income, adjusted net income - Republic, and adjusted diluted earnings per share may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies. Further information on each of these adjustments is included below.

Restructuring charges.  In 2020, we incurred costs related to the redesign of certain back-office software systems, which continued into 2021. In addition, in July 2020, we eliminated certain back-office support positions in response to a decline in the underlying demand for services resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Loss (gain) on business divestitures and impairments, net.  During the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, we recorded a net loss (gain) on business divestitures and impairments of $0.9 million and $(0.2) million, respectively. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2020, we recorded a net loss on business divestitures and impairments of $5.3 million and $1.4 million, respectively.

Withdrawal costs - multiemployer pension funds.  During 2020, we recorded charges to earnings for withdrawal events at multiemployer pension funds to which we contribute. As we obtain updated information regarding multiemployer pension funds, the factors used in deriving our estimated withdrawal liabilities will be subject to change, which may adversely impact our reserves for withdrawal costs.

Accelerated vesting of compensation expense for CEO transition.  In June 2021, Donald W. Slager, retired as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Republic Services, Inc. During the three and six months ended June 30, 2021, we recognized a charge of $15.4 million related to the accelerated vesting of his compensation awards that were previously scheduled to vest in 2022 and beyond.

Bridgeton insurance recovery.  During the six months ended June 30, 2020, we recognized an insurance recovery related to our closed Bridgeton Landfill in Missouri as a reduction of remediation expenses in our cost of operations.

Adjusted Free Cash Flow

The following table calculates our adjusted free cash flow, which is not a measure determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP, for the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020:

	Six Months Ended June 30,
	2021				2020
Cash provided by operating activities	$	1,482.8			$	1,333.5
Property and equipment received	(488.0)				(592.2)
Proceeds from sales of property and equipment	8.2				12.3
Restructuring payments, net of tax	6.3				4.6
Divestiture related tax payments	0.1				2.1
Bridgeton insurance recovery, net of tax	—				(26.4)
Adjusted free cash flow	$	1,009.4			$	733.9

We believe that presenting adjusted free cash flow provides useful information regarding our recurring cash provided by operating activities after certain expenditures or recoveries. It also demonstrates our ability to execute our financial strategy and is a key metric we use to determine compensation. The presentation of adjusted free cash flow has material limitations. Adjusted free cash flow does not represent our cash flow available for discretionary payments because it excludes certain payments that are required or to which we have committed, such as debt service requirements and dividend payments. Our definition of adjusted free cash flow may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies.

Purchases of property and equipment as reflected on our consolidated statements of cash flows represent amounts paid during the period for such expenditures. A reconciliation of property and equipment expenditures reflected on our consolidated statements of cash flows to property and equipment received during the period follows for the six months ended June 30, 2021 and 2020:

	Six Months Ended June 30,
	2021				2020
Purchases of property and equipment per the unaudited consolidated statements of cash flows	$	608.6			$	654.7
Adjustments for property and equipment received during the prior period but paid for in the    following period, net	(120.6)				(62.5)
Property and equipment received during the period	$	488.0			$	592.2

The adjustments noted above do not affect our net change in cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents as reflected in our consolidated statements of cash flows.

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE

As of June 30, 2021 and December 31, 2020, accounts receivable were $1,163.9 million and $1,091.3 million, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $39.1 million and $34.7 million, respectively, resulting in days sales outstanding of 37.0, or 25.2 days net of deferred revenue, compared to 38.6, or 26.4 days net of deferred revenue, respectively.

CASH DIVIDENDS

In April 2021, we paid a cash dividend of $135.6 million to shareholders of record as of April 1, 2021. As of June 30, 2021, we recorded a quarterly dividend payable of $135.4 million to shareholders of record at the close of business on July 1, 2021, which was paid on July 15, 2021.

SHARE REPURCHASE PROGRAM

During the three months ended June 30, 2021, we repurchased 0.7 million shares of our stock for $79.5 million at a weighted average cost per share of $109.35. As of June 30, 2021, the remaining authorized purchase capacity under our October 2020 repurchase program was $1.9 billion.

2021 FINANCIAL GUIDANCE

Adjusted Diluted Earnings per Share

The following is a summary of anticipated adjusted diluted earnings per share for the year ending December 31, 2021, which is not a measure determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP:

	(Anticipated) Year Ending December 31, 2021
Diluted earnings per share	$3.91 to $3.96
Restructuring charges	0.04
Loss (gain) on business divestitures and impairments, net	—
Accelerated vesting of compensation expense for CEO transition	0.05
Adjusted diluted earnings per share	$4.00 to $4.05

We believe that presenting adjusted diluted earnings per share provides an understanding of operational activities before the financial impact of certain items. We use this measure, and believe investors will find it helpful, in understanding the ongoing performance of our operations separate from items that have a disproportionate impact on our results for a particular period. We have incurred comparable charges, costs and recoveries in prior periods, and similar types of adjustments can reasonably be expected to be recorded in future periods. Our definition of adjusted diluted earnings per share may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies.

Adjusted Free Cash Flow

Our anticipated adjusted free cash flow for the year ending December 31, 2021, which is not a measure determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP, is calculated as follows:

	(Anticipated) Year Ending December 31, 2021
Cash provided by operating activities	$2,650 to $2,700
Property and equipment received	(1,230 to 1,255)
Proceeds from sales of property and equipment	15
Restructuring payments, net of tax	15
Adjusted free cash flow	$1,450 to $1,475

We believe that presenting adjusted free cash flow provides useful information regarding our recurring cash provided by operating activities after certain expenditures or recoveries. It also demonstrates our ability to execute our financial strategy and is a key metric we use to determine compensation. The presentation of adjusted free cash flow has material limitations. Adjusted free cash flow does not represent our cash flow available for discretionary payments because it excludes certain payments that are required or to which we have committed, such as debt service requirements and dividend payments. Our definition of adjusted free cash flow may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies.

INFORMATION REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains certain forward-looking information about us that is intended to be covered by the safe harbor for "forward-looking statements" provided by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts. Words such as "guidance," "expect," "will," "may," "anticipate," "plan," "estimate," "project," "intend," "should," "can," "likely," "could," "outlook" and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements include information about our plans, strategies and prospects. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of performance. These statements are based upon the current beliefs and expectations of our management and are subject to risk and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in, or implied or projected by, the forward-looking information and statements. Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot assure you that the expectations will prove to be correct. Among the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations expressed in the forward-looking statements are the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and actions taken in response thereto, acts of war, riots or terrorism, and the impact of these acts on economic, financial and social conditions in the United States as well as our dependence on large, long-term collection, transfer and disposal contracts. More information on factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated is included from time to time in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2020, particularly under Part I, Item 1A - Risk Factors and in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2021, which we expect to file with the Securities and Exchange Commission on or about July 29, 2021. Additionally, new risk factors emerge from time to time and it is not possible for us to predict all such risk factors, or to assess the impact such risk factors might have on our business. We undertake no obligation to update publicly any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

 

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SOURCE Republic Services, Inc.

FAQ

What were the Q2 2021 earnings for RSG?

Republic Services reported a net income of $331.1 million, or $1.03 per diluted share.

How much did RSG raise its EPS guidance for 2021?

RSG raised its full-year adjusted EPS guidance to $4.00 to $4.05.

What was the revenue growth percentage for RSG in Q2 2021?

RSG experienced a revenue growth of 15% in Q2 2021.

What was the adjusted free cash flow for RSG in 2021?

The adjusted free cash flow for RSG was reported at $1.0 billion, an increase of 38%.

What drove the earnings growth for RSG in Q2 2021?

The earnings growth was driven by an 8.1% increase in volume and a 5.2% rise in core pricing.