(RALEIGH) -- Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. reported net sales for the year of $1.52 billion. This is up from $1.48 billion in the prior year.

“2011 was an exciting year for our company in terms of both strong operational and financial performance and execution against stated strategic objectives," said Ward Nye, President and CEO of the Raleigh-based aggregate materials company. "Considering the challenges that confronted the construction materials industry throughout the year, I am pleased that we concluded 2011 with fourth-quarter earnings that exceeded market expectations, before charges related to business development expenses."

“In addition to delivering strong operating results for the quarter, we completed three aggregates-related acquisitions during 2011, which enhanced our platform for future growth in previously identified target markets. Coupled with tactical execution, our continued disciplined business approach and commitment to fundamentals and strategic vision have once again yielded impressive results, especially in a challenging environment. We are well positioned to continue building long-term shareholder value.”

The company had fourth quarter net earnings per diluted share of $0.32 and Adjusted EPS of $0.52 per diluted share. This compared with EPS of $0.32 and Adjusted EPS of $0.33 in the fourth quarter of the prior year.