Illinois-based specialty metal and plastic products distributor A. M. Castle & Co. has reported consolidated net sales of $1,501 million, an increase of 5.7% for full year 2008 compared to consolidated net sales of $1,420.3 million for full year 2007.

Net loss for the full year 2008 including the $58.9 million non-cash impairment charge for goodwill was $17.1 million or $0.76 per diluted share as compared to net earnings of $51.2 million, or $2.41 per diluted share in 2007.

For the fourth quarter of 2008, consolidated net sales were $321.5 million, compared to net sales of $322.1 million in the same period of 2007.

The company reported a fourth quarter net loss of $53.6 million, which included a $58.9 million non-cash charge to reduce the carrying value of goodwill related to the company's Metals segment.

On March 5, 2009 the board of directors declared a regular quarterly cash dividend of $0.06 per share of common stock. The dividend is payable on April 2, 2009 to shareholders of record March 19, 2009.