Jan. 5, 2006 — Steel Technologies Inc. announced that it expects to report sales of approximately $210 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2006, which ended on December 31, 2005, reflecting a 17% decrease compared to the year-ago first quarter. Expected earnings of approximately $0.24 per diluted share would be 78% lower than the year-ago first quarter.

The company expects shipments for the quarter to be approximately 270,000 tons, which is in line with projections stated during its November conference call.

Steel Technologies processes flat-rolled steel to specific thickness, width, temper, finish and shape requirements for automotive, appliance, lawn and garden, office furniture, agriculture, railcar, construction, hardware, and consumer goods. The company has 20 facilities, including joint-venture operations, located throughout the United States and Mexico.