James River posted a $138.9 million, or $3.99 per share, full-year loss and a $76.9 million, or $2.21 per share, fourth-quarter loss, both of which are wider than the corresponding period of 2011.
The gains were affected by a goodwill impairment charge and a gain from the repurchase of $7.7 million of its outstanding debt.
It is the biggest annual loss that the Central Appalachian producer has reported in eight years.
And in more bad news, it was announced alongside news the company has idled five underground mines, two preparation plants and a load-out facility. It also reduced production at three surface mines. The company says the moves impact about 400 employees and contractors.
The idled mines are Abner Branch, Mine 16, Mine 6A, Mine 31 and Jellico.
Chairman and chief executive officer Peter Socha said the company was adjusting to the changing market conditions.
“We have closed and idled mines, reduced working hours at the remaining mines, reviewed and changed the purchasing process for nearly every item that we buy, and lowered our SG&A head count and expenses,” he said.
“Many of these decisions have been difficult but necessary.”
"The year 2012 will be remembered as one of the most difficult years in the history of the US coal industry,” Socha said.
“The domestic thermal coal market went through a third consecutive year of soft market conditions due to weak economic conditions and competitive pressures from natural gas production.”
“The met coal market collapsed during the middle of the year due to weak international markets in both Asia and Europe.”
“As we look ahead to 2013, both of these markets are showing some marginal improvement.
“The thermal market, although still weak, is starting to improve due primarily to reduced production by the coal industry and slightly better weather conditions. The met market is seeing clear signs of increased demand from Asia.”
The company’s total annual steam coal revenue fell from $651,016 in 2011 to $476,101 in 2012, but its metallurgical coal sales revenue increased, rising from $348,972 in 2011 to $439,254 in 2012 on the back of higher prices.
