Fastenal Company announced unaudited consolidated earnings results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2017. For the fourth quarter, the company's net sales were $1,088.5 million against $947.9 million a year ago. Operating income was $203.3 million against $182.5 million a year ago. Earnings before income taxes were $200.8 million against $180.8 million a year ago. Net earnings were $152.4 million against $114.8 million a year ago. Earnings per share, basic and diluted, were $0.53 per share against $0.40 per share a year ago.

For the year, the company's net sales were $4,390.5 million against $3,962.0 million a year ago. Operating income was $881.8 million against $795.8 million a year ago. Earnings before income taxes were $873.1 million against $789.7 million a year ago. Net earnings were $578.6 million against $499.4 million a year ago. Earnings per share, basic and diluted, were $2.01 per share against $1.73 per share a year ago. Net cash provided by operating activities was $585.2 million against $519.9 million a year ago. Purchases of property and equipment were $119.9 million against $189.5 million a year ago.

The company is still refining its understanding of various elements of tax reform, but expects its full year 2018 rate to settle at a range of 24% to 26%, excluding any additional discrete items that may arise during the year.