The logo of Miller Industries is seen on a component.Miller Industries boosts earnings
Miller Industries is stepping up production to meet demand after a strong first quarter, co-CEO Jeff Badgley said in a release Wendesday.
The Ooltewah-based tow truck equipment manufacturer recorded $104.2 million in net sales in the first quarter of 2014, up almost 23 percent over first quarter 2013. Gross profit was $10.9 million, up slightly from last year's $8.6 million.
"Overall, 2014 started with strong revenue and profitability growth despite the impact of weather-related issues during the quarter," Badgley said. "Our backlog continued to rise, and as a result, we are further ramping up production at our facilities."
The company declared a quarterly cash dividend of 15 cents per share.
Fire at Mohawk plant in Dalton
Whitfield County firefighters responded to a fire at a Mohawk Industries plant at 2001 Antioch Road in Dalton, Ga., at 4:20 p.m. Wednesday, Whitfield County dispatchers said.
The Whitfield County Sheriff's Department, EMS and Fire Department responded, and no injuries were reported Wednesday afternoon. The cause of the fire is under investigation.