Nov 04, 2010. /Lesprom Network/. Rock-Tenn reported that its 4Q net income attributable to shareholders was $91.4 million, up from $67.3 million in the same quarter last year. The company's adjusted earnings were $1.64 per share compared to the prior year quarter adjusted earnings of $1.19 per diluted share, Rock-Tenn said in a statement received by Lesprom Network. Net sales were $806.8 million for the 4Q of fiscal 2010 increased $77.8 million, or 10.7% over the 4Q of fiscal 2009. Segment income of $125.9 million was $18.4 million, or 17.1% over the prior year quarter excluding $21.4 million of alternative fuel mixture credit, net of expenses in the prior year quarter. Gross margin fell to 25.3% from 27.9%. Total tons shipped rose 3%, while the average selling price for all paperboard and containerboard grades grew 11%. Revenue in the largest segment, consumer packaging, rose 5% on higher prices, while profit fell 23%, including the alternative fuel mixture credit. Sales increased in the company's three smaller businesses and profits grew in all except the specialty paperboard products segment. RockTenn Chairman and CEO James A. Rubright stated, “RockTenn’s adjusted earnings of $1.64 per share increased 38% over the prior year quarter due to volume growth of 2% and higher operating margins, driven by continued operational excellence and higher product prices. Overall demand continued to be strong early in the December quarter and we believe that if current demand and recycled fiber costs continue at current levels throughout the fiscal year, adjusted earnings in fiscal 2011 will exceed adjusted earnings in fiscal 2010.” RockTenn is one of North America’s leading manufacturers of paperboard, containerboard and consumer and corrugated packaging.