Friedman Industries Inc. announced net earnings of $1,618,829 on sales of $44,915,704 for the first quarter.

Net earnings of $1,618,829 ($0.21 per share diluted) compare to net earnings of $467,265 ($0.06 per share diluted) for the first quarter of 2003. Sales, $44,915,704, compare to sales of $25,204,170 for the first quarter of 2003.

Houston-based Friedman Industries Inc. is engaged in pipe manufacturing, steel coil processing, and steel and pipe distribution.