Sonoco (NYSE:SON) reported preliminary Q4 base EPS of $0.45 – $0.47, compared to its previously given range of $0.59 – $0.63, vs. consensus estimates of $0.61.The company cited lower than anticipated Q4 Tube, Cores/paper results and a higher tax rate.Sonoco sees about 39% effective tax rate, vs. its prior outlook of 32% as well as an annual EPS of $2.28 – $2.30, vs. its prior guidance of $2.41 – $2.46, and estimates of $2.43.The company expects 2011 sales to be up 9% vs. estimates of a 10% rise.
