The operating loss (after a charge of $16.8 million for impairment of property and equipment in the more recent quarter) was $56.6 million against a loss of $17.9 million a year ago.
Includes non-cash impairment charges related to property and equipment and intangible assets and loss on disposals of assets (including property and equipment disposed of in connection with renovations).
The company incurred branch consolidation, property and equipment costs totaling $14 million in the first quarter of 2016 and $22 million in the first quarter of 2015.
People, property and equipment were being endangered by prolonged utility outages, explosions, and electrocutions that resulted in serious injuries, loss of property and fines.