UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE
COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM 10-Q

 

x QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the quarterly period ended October 6, 2007

 

OR

 

o TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE
SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

Commission File Number 0-24395

 

bebe stores, inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

California
(State or Jurisdiction of
Incorporation or Organization)

 

94-2450490
(IRS Employer
Identification Number)

 

400 Valley Drive

Brisbane, California 94005

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

Telephone: (415) 715-3900

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  x Yes o No

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act).  o Large accelerated filer x Accelerated filer o Non- accelerated filer

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). o Yes x No

 

The number of shares of the registrant’s common stock, par value $0.001 per share, outstanding as of October 31, 2007 was 88,609,936.

 

bebe stores, inc.

 

 



 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

PART I.     FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

 

 

 

ITEM 1.

Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

 

 

 

 

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of October 6, 2007, July 7, 2007 and September 30, 2006

3

 

 

 

 

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income for the quarters ended October 6, 2007 and September 30, 2006

4

 

 

 

 

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the quarters ended October 6, 2007 and September 30, 2006

5

 

 

 

 

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

6

 

 

 

ITEM 2.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

13

 

 

 

ITEM 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

20

 

 

 

ITEM 4.

 Controls and Procedures

21

 

 

 

PART II.     OTHER INFORMATION

 

 

 

 

ITEM 1.

Legal Proceedings

22

 

 

 

ITEM 1A.

Risk Factors

22

 

 

 

ITEM 2.

Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

26

 

 

 

ITEM 3.

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

26

 

 

 

ITEM 4.

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

26

 

 

 

ITEM 5.

Other Information

27

 

 

 

ITEM 6.

Exhibits

27

 

 

 

SIGNATURE

28

 

 

 

EXHIBIT INDEX

29

 

2



 

PART I.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.

Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

bebe stores, inc.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands, except share data)

(unaudited)

 

 

 

As of

 

As of

 

As of

 

 

 

October 6,

 

July 7,

 

September 30,

 

 

 

2007

 

2007 (a)

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and equivalents

 

$

40,590

 

$

65,603

 

$

50,391

 

Short term marketable securities

 

283,925

 

327,100

 

292,414

 

Receivables (net of allowance of $1,139, $1,094 and $935)

 

10,247

 

6,720

 

8,704

 

Inventories

 

52,064

 

44,064

 

53,427

 

Deferred income taxes, net

 

9,071

 

9,068

 

6,780

 

Prepaid and other

 

19,900

 

13,314

 

4,431

 

Total current assets

 

415,797

 

465,869

 

416,147

 

Property and equipment, net

 

121,193

 

116,595

 

96,643

 

Deferred income taxes, net

 

24,402

 

20,330

 

13,859

 

Other assets

 

4,218

 

4,234

 

3,351

 

Total assets

 

$

565,610

 

$

607,028

 

$

530,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts payable

 

$

33,948

 

$

28,052

 

$

28,821

 

Accrued liabilities

 

28,493

 

33,982

 

26,672

 

Current portion of capital leases

 

206

 

223

 

237

 

Total current liabilities

 

62,647

 

62,257

 

55,370

 

Long term portion of capital leases

 

 

38

 

205

 

Deferred rent and other lease incentives

 

43,584

 

40,143

 

37,293

 

Uncertain tax positions

 

5,278

 

 

 

Total liabilities

 

111,509

 

102,438

 

93,228

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Commitments and contingencies

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shareholders’ equity:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Preferred stock-authorized 1,000,000 shares at $0.001 par value per share; no shares issued and outstanding

 

 

 

 

Common stock-authorized 135,000,000 shares at $0.001 par value per share; issued and outstanding 88,607,755, 93,543,604 and 92,621,101 shares

 

89

 

94

 

93

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

130,155

 

126,744

 

108,523

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income

 

12,180

 

9,139

 

2,411

 

Retained earnings

 

311,677

 

368,613

 

325,745

 

Total shareholders’ equity

 

454,101

 

504,590

 

436,772

 

Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity

 

$

565,610

 

$

607,028

 

$

530,000

 

 


(a) Derived from audited financial statements.

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

3



 

bebe stores, inc.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(In thousands, except per share data)

(unaudited)

 

 

 

Quarters Ended

 

 

 

October 6,

 

September 30,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

$

161,082

 

$

157,059

 

Cost of sales, including production and occupancy

 

84,567

 

77,773

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  Gross margin

 

76,515

 

79,286

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses

 

56,180

 

50,290

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income

 

20,335

 

28,996

 

Interest and other income, net

 

3,695

 

3,173

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income before income taxes

 

24,030

 

32,169

 

Income tax provision

 

8,651

 

11,742

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

15,379

 

$

20,427

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic earnings per share

 

$

0.17

 

$

0.22

 

Diluted earnings per share

 

$

0.16

 

$

0.22

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic weighted average shares outstanding

 

92,683

 

91,980

 

Diluted weighted average shares outstanding

 

94,177

 

94,398

 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

4



 

bebe stores, inc.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)

(unaudited)

 

 

Quarters Ended

 

 

 

October 6,

 

September 30,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from operating income:

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

15,379

 

$

20,427

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Non-cash compensation expense

 

2,973

 

2,364

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

5,392

 

4,271

 

Deferred rent and other lease incentives

 

3,352

 

3,910

 

Deferred income taxes

 

(873

)

(621

)

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Receivables

 

(1,861

)

(1,675

)

Inventories

 

(7,867

)

(11,273

)

Prepaid expenses and other

 

(3,572

)

2,516

 

Accounts payable

 

5,878

 

5,874

 

Accrued liabilities

 

(1,266

)

(2,754

)

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

17,535

 

23,039

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Purchase of property and equipment

 

(9,828

)

(7,664

)

Purchase of marketable securities

 

(141,300

)

(69,375

)

Proceeds from sales of marketable securities

 

184,475

 

65,975

 

Net cash provided (used) by investing activities

 

33,347

 

(11,064

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Net proceeds from issuance of common stock

 

388

 

5,853

 

Purchase of common stock

 

(66,950

)

 

Excess of tax benefit from options exercised

 

212

 

4,538

 

Cash dividends paid

 

(9,354

)

(9,216

)

Other

 

(55

)

(67

)

Net cash provided (used) by financing activities

 

(75,759

)

1,108

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

 

(24,877

)

13,083

 

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

 

(136

)

(1,348

)

Cash and equivalents:

 

 

 

 

 

Beginning of period

 

65,603

 

38,656

 

End of period

 

$

40,590

 

$

50,391

 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

5



 
bebe stores, inc.
 
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 
INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
 

The accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets of bebe stores, inc. (the “Company”) as of October 6, 2007, July 7, 2007 and September 30, 2006, the condensed consolidated statements of income for the quarters ended October 6, 2007 and September 30, 2006 and the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows for the quarters ended October 6, 2007 and September 30, 2006 have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X, without audit. Accordingly, they do not include all of the information required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for annual financial statements. Therefore, these condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended July 7, 2007.

 

In the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring accruals) considered necessary to present fairly the financial position at the balance sheet dates and the results of operations for the periods presented have been included. The condensed consolidated balance sheet at July 7, 2007, presented herein, was derived from the audited balance sheet included in the Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 7, 2007.

 

                Our business is affected by the pattern of seasonality common to most retail apparel businesses. The results for the periods presented are not necessarily indicative of future financial results.

 

FISCAL YEAR
 

Our fiscal year is a 52 or 53 week period, each period ending on the first Saturday after June 30. Fiscal years 2008 and 2007 include 52 weeks and 53 weeks, respectively.

 

The quarters ended October 6, 2007 and September 30, 2006 both included 13 weeks.

 

6



 

INVENTORIES

 

The Company’s inventories consist of:

 

 

 

As of

 

 

 

October 6,

 

July 7,

 

September 30,

 

 

 

2007

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Raw materials

 

$

6,845

 

$

7,136

 

$

11,442

 

Merchandise available for sale

 

45,219

 

36,928

 

41,985

 

Inventories

 

$

52,064

 

$

44,064

 

$

53,427

 

 

EARNINGS PER SHARE
 

Basic earnings per share is computed as net earnings divided by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted earnings per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur from common shares issuable through the exercise of dilutive stock options.

 

The following is a reconciliation of the number of shares used in the basic and diluted earnings per share computations:

 

 

 

Quarters Ended

 

 

 

October 6,
2007

 

September 30,
2006

 

 

 

(In thousands)

 

Basic weighted average number of shares outstanding

 

92,683

 

91,980

 

Incremental shares from the assumed issuance of stock options

 

1,494

 

2,418

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diluted weighted average number of shares outstanding

 

94,177

 

94,398

 

 

The number of incremental shares from the assumed issuance of stock options is calculated applying the treasury stock method.

 

Excluded from the computation of the number of diluted weighted average shares outstanding were options of 2,342,000, and 1,445,000 for the quarters ended October 6, 2007 and September 30, 2006, respectively, which in each case would have been anti-dilutive.

 

COMMON STOCK PURCHASES
 

On September 13, 2007, the Company entered into an agreement with the Company’s former Vice Chairperson Neda Mashouf to purchase 5 million shares of its outstanding common stock beneficially owned by Ms. Mashouf at a price per share of $13.39, an aggregate purchase price of $66,950,000.  As of October 6, 2007, the Company completed the purchase and retired the shares.

 

7



 

COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
 

Comprehensive income consists of net income and other comprehensive income (income, expenses, gains and losses that bypass the income statement and are reported directly as a separate component of equity). The Company’s comprehensive income consists of net income and foreign currency translation adjustments for all periods presented.

 

 

 

Quarters Ended

 

 

 

October 6,
2007

 

September 30,
2006

 

 

 

(In thousands)

Net income

 

$

15,379

 

$

20,427

 

Other comprehensive income

 

3,041

 

(7

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total comprehensive income

 

$

18,420

 

$

20,420

 

 

CREDIT FACILITIES
 

The Company has an unsecured commercial line of credit agreement with a bank, which provides for borrowings and issuance of letters of credit up to a combined total of $25.0 million and expires on March 31, 2009. The outstanding balance bears interest at either the bank’s reference rate (which was 7.75% as of October 6, 2007) or the LIBOR rate plus 1.75 percentage points. As of October 6, 2007, there were no outstanding borrowings, and there was $2.1 million outstanding in letters of credit.

 

This credit facility requires the Company to comply with certain financial covenants, including amounts for minimum tangible net worth, unencumbered liquid assets and profitability, and certain restrictions on making loans and investments.

 

STOCK BASED COMPENSATION
 

The 1997 Stock Plan as amended (the “Stock Plan”) provides for the grant of incentive stock options, non-qualified stock options, stock purchase rights, stock awards and restricted stock units. Although the Stock Plan allows for stock options and related awards to be granted at prices below fair market value, the Company has historically granted such options at the fair market value of the stock on the date of grant.  Stock options and related awards have a maximum term of ten years.  Options and restricted stock units granted to employees and options granted to Directors generally vest over four years with 20% of the award vested in each of the first and second years, and 30% vested in each of the remaining two years.  Restricted stock units awarded to Directors generally vest over a period of one year from the date of grant.  As of October 6, 2007, the Company has reserved 7,645,485 shares of common stock for issuance under the Stock Plan and there were 803,990 shares available for future grant.

 

The Company accounts for share-based compensation under the provisions of SFAS No. 123 (revised 2004), “Share-Based Payment” (“SFAS No. 123(R)”), which requires share-based payment compensation related to stock options to be measured based on the estimated fair value at the date of grant using an option pricing model.

 

8



 

The Company recognized share-based compensation expense of $3.0 million and $2.4 million in the quarters ended October 6, 2007 and September 30, 2006, respectively, as a component of selling, general and administrative expenses. As of October 6, 2007, there was $11.9 million (before any related tax benefit) of total unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested share-based compensation that is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.77 years.

 

The fair value of each option grant was estimated on the date of the grant using the Black-Scholes valuation model.  The expected life of the options represents the period of time the options are expected to be outstanding and is based on historical trends. The expected stock price volatility is based on an average of the historical volatility of the Company’s stock for a period approximating the expected life and the implied volatility based on traded options of the Company’s stock. The expected dividend yield is based on the Company’s most recent annual dividend payout. The risk-free interest rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant and has a term that approximates the expected life.

 

The following table presents the weighted average assumptions used in the option pricing model for the stock options granted in the quarters ended October 6, 2007 and September 30, 2006:

 

 

 

Quarters Ended

 

 

 

October 6,

 

September 30,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

Expected dividend rate

 

1.3

%

0.8

%

Volatility

 

46.6

%

49.5

%

Risk-free interest rate

 

4.1

%

4.7

%

Expected lives (years)

 

4.3

 

4.1

 

Fair value per option granted

 

$

5.31

 

$

8.85

 

 

9



 

The following table summarizes stock option activity during the quarter ended October 6, 2007:
 

 

 

Options
(In thousands)

 

Weighted 
Average
Exercise Price
Per Share

 

Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term

 

Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
(In thousands)

 

Outstanding, July 7, 2007

 

6,098

 

$

11.95

 

 

 

 

 

Granted

 

925

 

13.23

 

 

 

 

 

Exercised

 

(59

)

5.94

 

 

 

 

 

Cancelled

 

(200

)

16.92

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding, October 6, 2007

 

6,764

 

$

12.03

 

7.28

 

$

29,360

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercisable, October 6, 2007

 

3,859

 

$

9.63

 

6.32

 

$

23,708

 

 

Intrinsic value for stock options is defined as the difference between the current market value and the grant price. For the quarter ended October 6, 2007, the total intrinsic value of stock options exercised was $0.5 million. Cash received from stock options exercised during the quarter ended October 6, 2007 was $0.3 million and the actual tax benefit realized for tax deductions from stock options exercised totaled $0.2 million.

 

The following table summarizes restricted stock unit activity during the quarter ended October 6, 2007:

 

 

 

Shares
(In thousands)

 

Weighted
Average Grant
Date Fair Value
Per Share

 

Nonvested, July 7, 2007

 

67

 

$

20.68

 

Granted

 

25

 

$

13.44

 

Vested

 

(6

)

$

19.92

 

Cancelled

 

(1

)

$

18.74

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nonvested, October 6, 2007

 

85

 

$

15.36

 

 

INCOME TAXES

 

Effective July 8, 2007, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes (“FIN 48”). The cumulative effect of adoption was a decrease to retained earnings of approximately $0.6 million. As of July 8, 2007, the total unrecognized tax benefits were approximately $5.2 million. Of this amount, approximately $2.0 million would reduce our effective tax rate if recognized.

 

The Company accounts for interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense. As of the date of adoption, the Company had $0.7 million of interest and penalties accrued associated with unrecognized tax benefits.

 

The Company could be subject to Federal and state tax examinations for years 2002 and forward. The Company may also be subject to audits in Canada for years 2000 and forward. The Company is currently under state income tax audit in New Jersey

 

10



 

and expects the commencement of certain state tax audits in the near term. At this time, the Company does not believe that the outcome of any examination will have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements.

 

As of July 8, 2007, the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits was approximately $5.2 million, and there has been no material change to the amount of unrecognized tax benefits as of that date. The Company currently does not expect significant changes related to unrecognized tax benefits through July 5, 2008.

 

LEGAL MATTERS
 

A former employee sued bebe in a complaint filed on April 28, 2005 in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California (case no. C050177) alleging violations under the Fair Labor Standards Act, specifically that bebe obligated her to buy and wear its brand clothing as a uniform, without reimbursement or credit, and the net effect of deducting the value of such required purchases from her wages would often result in her not being paid minimum wages. The plaintiff purports to bring the action also on behalf of a class of hourly, non-managerial employees who are similarly situated. The lawsuit seeks compensatory, statutory and injunctive relief. We have negotiated a confidential settlement in this case which remains subject to court approval. One objection to the settlement has been filed by the plaintiff in the lawsuit described in the next paragraph of this section. We have accrued an amount that we believe reasonably estimates the potential liability, which does not have a material impact on our financial position or results of operations.

 

A former employee sued bebe in a complaint filed July 27, 2006 in the Superior Court of California, San Mateo County (case no. CIV 456550) alleging a failure to pay all wages, failure to pay overtime wages, failure to pay minimum wages, failure to provide meal periods, violation of Labor Code §450, violation of Labor Code §2802 and California Code of Regulations §11040(9)(A), statutory wage violations (late payment of wages), unlawful business practices under Business and Professions Code §16720 and §17200, conversion of wages and violation of Civil Code §52.1. The plaintiff purports to bring the action also on behalf of current and former California bebe employees who are similarly situated. The lawsuit seeks compensatory, statutory, punitive, restitution and injunctive relief. Due to certain similarities in claims between this action and the one previously mentioned (Case No. C050177), the parties and the Court have postponed active litigation and discovery until such time as the previously mentioned case resolves the claims in common. Notwithstanding, the Court in this case has set a hearing in June, 2008 regarding whether class certification would be appropriate if, and to the extent, any claim(s) in this case remain(s) active at that time.

 

A former employee sued bebe in a complaint filed July 24, 2007 in the Superior Court of California, Orange County (case no. 07CC08220) alleging a failure to pay overtime wages, failure to provide for meal and rest breaks, and unfair business practices (to include the above allegations and misclassifying store managers as “exempt”). The plaintiff purports to bring the action also on behalf of current and former California bebe employees who are similarly situated. The lawsuit seeks compensatory, statutory, and punitive damages and injunctive relief. This matter is in the early stages of discovery.

 

A former employee sued bebe in a complaint filed September 20, 2007 in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey (case no. 07-cv-4514 (D.N.J.)) alleging various state and federal statutory breaches based on a failure to pay all wages, including overtime wages and bonus, failure to provide and/or pay for meal and rest break periods, failure to credit vacation time and other benefits and retaliation, wrongful termination, breach of contract, breach of covenant of good

 

11



 

faith and fair dealing, and unjust enrichment. Plaintiff purports to bring the action on behalf of current and former store management employees who are or were similarly situated. The complaint seeks compensatory, statutory and punitive damages and equitable relief. We are currently reviewing the allegations.

 

A customer sued the company in a complaint filed December 14, 2006 in the Superior Court of Contra Costa County (case no. C06-02630) alleging that we utilized a certain type of preprinted credit card form in a return transaction in violation of California Civil Code §1747.08. The plaintiff purports to bring the action also on behalf of other customers who are similarly situated. The lawsuit seeks compensatory, statutory, and injunctive relief. We are currently reviewing the allegations at this early stage. This matter is in the early stages of discovery.

 

Three customers filed separate complaints alleging the Company violated The Fair Credit Reporting Act (the “FCRA”). Two of such cases were filed January 10 and January 16, 2007 in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California (case nos. C07-0203 & C07-0255, respectively). In late April 2007, each of these two lawsuits were voluntarily dismissed, without prejudice, by their respective plaintiff. The third lawsuit, filed on February 9, 2007 in the Central District of California (case no. CV-07-0972) remains active. This latter lawsuit alleges that we violated the FCRA by printing on receipts more than the last five digits of the credit or debit card numbers and/or the expiration date. The plaintiff purports to bring the action also on behalf of other customers who are similarly situated and seeks statutory and punitive damages, attorney’s fees and injunctive relief. We are currently reviewing the allegations at this early stage. This matter is in the early stages of discovery.

 

We are also involved in various other legal proceedings arising in the normal course of business. None of these matters nor the matters listed above are expected, individually or in the aggregate, to have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

 

We intend to defend ourself vigorously against each of these claims. However, the results of any litigation are inherently uncertain. We cannot assure you that we will be able to successfully defend ourself in these lawsuits. Where required, and/or otherwise appropriate, we have recorded an estimate of potential liabilities that we believe is reasonable. Any estimates are revised as further information becomes available.

 

RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

 

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements. SFAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 applies under other accounting pronouncements that require or permit fair value measurements and accordingly does not require any new fair value measurements. The provisions of SFAS No. 157 are to be applied prospectively as of the beginning of the fiscal year in which it is initially applied, with any transition adjustment recognized as a cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings. The provisions of SFAS No. 157 are effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. The Company is in the process of determining the impact that the adoption of SFAS No. 157 will have on its financial position and results of operations.

 

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159,  “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities-Including an amendment of FASB Statement No. 115”. SFAS No. 159 permits entities to choose to measure eligible

 

12



 

items at fair value at specified election dates and report unrealized gains and losses on items for which the fair value option has been elected in earnings at each subsequent reporting date. SFAS No. 159 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. We are currently in the process of assessing the impact the adoption of SFAS No. 159 will have on our financial position and results of operations.

 

ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

 

The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations contains forward-looking statements, which involve risks and uncertainties. Our actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements.  Statements that are predictive in nature, that depend upon or refer to future events or conditions or that include words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “thinks,” and similar expressions are forward-looking statements.   Forward-looking statements include statements about our expected results of operations, capital expenditures and store openings.  Although we believe that these statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, we cannot assure you that our goals will be achieved. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this Form 10-Q, and we assume no obligation to update or revise them or provide reasons why actual results may differ. Factors that might cause such a difference include, but are not limited to, our ability to respond to changing fashion trends, miscalculation of the demand for our products, effective management of our growth, decline in comparable store sales performance, ongoing competitive pressures in the apparel industry, changes in the level of consumer spending or preferences in apparel, our ability to attract and retain key management personnel and/or other factors discussed in “Risks Factors” and elsewhere in this Form 10-Q.

 

OVERVIEW
 

We design, develop and produce a distinctive line of contemporary women’s apparel and accessories. While we attract a broad audience, our target customer is a 21 to 35-year-old woman who seeks current fashion trends to suit her lifestyle. The “bebe look” appeals to a hip, sexy, sophisticated, body-conscious woman who takes pride in her appearance. The bebe customer expects value in the form of current fashion and high quality at a competitive price.

 

Our distinctive product offering includes a full range of separates, tops, sweaters, dresses, active wear and accessories in the following lifestyle categories:  career, evening, casual and active. We design and develop the majority of our merchandise in-house, which is manufactured to our specifications. The remainder of our merchandise is sourced directly from third-party manufacturers.

 

We market our products under the bebe, COLLECTION bebe, BEBE SPORT, bbsp and bebe O brand names. As of October 6, 2007, we had 279 retail stores, of which 202 were bebe stores, 56 were BEBE SPORT stores, 20 were bebe outlet stores and 1 was a bebe accessories store. These stores are located in 35 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Canada. In addition, we have an on-line store at www.bebe.com and our licensees operate 18 international stores, including shop in shops. During the quarter ended October 6, 2007, we opened 6 stores, including 4 bebe stores and 2 BEBE SPORT stores. We expect to open approximately 40 stores during fiscal 2008, including approximately 25 to 27 bebe stores, 6 to 8 BEBE SPORT stores and 3 to 5 bebe outlet stores. During fiscal 2008, we anticipate closing up to 4 stores. We also plan to renovate 2 existing

 

13



 

stores and relocate or expand 6 existing stores, resulting in square footage growth of approximately 15%.

 

bebe stores.  We were founded by Manny Mashouf, Chairman of the Board. We opened our first store in San Francisco, California in 1976, which was also the year we incorporated.

 

BEBE SPORT. We launched BEBE SPORT during fiscal 2003 to address the performance and active lifestyle needs of the bebe customer.

 

bebe outlets.  We utilize the outlets as a clearance vehicle for merchandise from our retail stores. In addition, the inventory includes a strong presentation of bebe logo merchandise and special cuts produced under the bebe O label exclusively for the outlet stores. In the last quarter of 2008, we plan to open 3 to 5 new or expanded outlet stores under the new name 2b bebe and will continue to offer a selection of bebe logo product, bebe sale consolidations and an expanded assortment of product made exclusively for our outlet stores under the new name 2b bebe.

 

On-line. bebe.com is an extension of the bebe store experience and provides a complete assortment of bebe and BEBE SPORT merchandise. It is also used as an advertising vehicle to communicate with our customers.

 

bebe accessories. In September 2006, we opened our first accessory concept store featuring shoes imported from Italy, Brazil and China and a selection of fine leather goods, bebe logo merchandise, outerwear and gift items.

 

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations are based upon our consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

The preparation of these financial statements requires the appropriate application of certain accounting policies, many of which require us to make estimates and assumptions about future events and their impact on amounts reported in our financial statements and related notes. Since future events and their impact cannot be determined with certainty, the actual results will inevitably differ from our estimates. Such differences could be material to the financial statements. We believe our application of accounting policies, and the estimates inherently required therein, are reasonable. These accounting policies and estimates are constantly reevaluated, and adjustments are made when facts and circumstances dictate a change. Our accounting policies are more fully described in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements in our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 7, 2007.

 

We have identified certain critical accounting policies, which are described below:

 

Revenue recognition.   We recognize revenue at the time the products are received by the customers in accordance with the provisions of Staff Accounting Bulletin (“SAB”) No. 101, “Revenue Recognition in Financial Statements” as amended by SAB No. 104, “Revenue Recognition”. We recognize revenue for store sales at the point at which the customer receives and pays for the merchandise at the register with either cash or credit card. For on-line sales, we recognize revenue at the time the customer receives the product. We estimate and defer revenue and the related product costs for shipments that are in transit to the customer. Customers typically receive goods within one week of shipment. Amounts related to shipping billed to customers are reflected in net sales and the related costs are reflected in cost of goods

 

14



 

sold. Sales tax collected from customers on retail sales are recorded net of retail sales at the time of the transaction.

 

We record a reserve for estimated product returns based on historical return trends. As of October 6, 2007 and September 30, 2006, the reserve was $1,161,000 and $1,148,000, respectively. If actual returns are greater than those projected, additional sales returns may be recorded in the future.

 

Discounts offered to customers consist primarily of point of sale markdowns and are recorded at the time of the related sale as a reduction of revenue.

 

We include the value of points and rewards earned by our loyalty program members as a liability and a reduction of revenue at the time the points and rewards are earned based on historical conversion and redemption rates. We recognize revenue when the rewards are redeemed or expire.

 

We carry gift certificates sold as a liability and we recognize revenue when the gift certificate is redeemed or four years after issuance if the gift certificate is unredeemed. Similarly, customers may receive a store credit in exchange for returned goods. We carry store credits as a liability until redeemed or three years after issuance if the store credit is unredeemed.

 

       We ship bebe goods to various international locations and recognize revenue from these wholesale sales when the licensee receives the shipment.

 

We record royalty revenue from product licensees as earned, which is based on the licensee’s sales.

 

Stock Based Compensation. We account for stock options and awards issued to employees in accordance with the fair value recognition provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Statement No. 123(R) (“SFAS No. 123(R)”), “Share-Based Payment,” using the modified prospective transition method. Under SFAS No. 123(R), stock-based awards to employees are required to be recognized as compensation expense, based on the calculated fair value on the date of grant. We determine the fair value using the Black Scholes option pricing model. This model requires subjective assumptions, including future stock price volatility and expected term, which affect the calculated values.

 

Inventories. Our inventories are stated at the lower of weighted average cost or market. Market is determined based on the estimated net realizable value, which is generally the merchandise selling price. To ensure that our raw material is properly valued we age the fabric inventory and record a reserve in accordance with our established policy, which is based on historical experience. To ensure our finished goods inventory is properly valued we review the age and turnover of our inventory and record a reserve if the selling price is marked down below cost. These assumptions can have an impact on current and future operating results and financial position. We estimate shrinkage for the period between the last physical count and balance sheet date based on historic shrinkage trends.

 

Long-lived assets. We review long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances, such as store closures or poor performing stores, indicate that the carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable. If the undiscounted cash flows from the long-lived assets are less than the carrying value we record an impairment charge equal to the difference between the carrying value and the asset’s fair value. In addition, at the time a decision is made to close a store, we record an impairment charge, if appropriate, or accelerate depreciation over the revised useful life of the asset. Historically, our impairment charges have been immaterial.  During the quarters ended October 6, 2007 and September 30, 2006 we did not need to

 

15



 

record an impairment charge.  We believe at this time that the long-lived assets’ carrying values and useful lives continue to be appropriate.

 

Accrued Litigation.  We accrue estimates of probable liabilities associated with lawsuits and claims. The results of any litigation are inherently uncertain. As information becomes available, we assess the potential liabilities related to pending litigation and may revise our estimates as necessary. Such revisions of estimates could materially impact the results of operations and financial position.

 

Self Insurance.   We use a combination of insurance and self insurance for employee related health care benefits. We record self insurance liabilities based on claims filed and an estimate of those claims incurred but not reported. Any projection of losses concerning our liability is subject to a high degree of variability. Among the causes of this variability are unpredictable external factors such as future inflation rates, changes in severity, benefit level changes, medical costs and claim settlement patterns. Should a different amount of claims occur compared to what was estimated or costs of the claims increase or decrease beyond what was anticipated, reserves may need to be adjusted in the future.

 

Income Taxes. On July 8, 2007, we adopted FIN 48. FIN 48 prescribes a recognition threshold that a tax position is required to meet before being recognized in the financial statements and provides guidance on derecognition, measurement, classification, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure and transition issues. To the extent that our estimates change or the final tax outcome of these matters is different than the amounts recorded, such differences will impact the income tax provision in the period in which such determinations are made. Our effective tax rate in a given financial statement period may be materially impacted by changes in the mix and level of earnings, changes in the expected outcome of audits or changes in the deferred tax valuation allowance.

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
 
Our fiscal year is a 52 or 53 week period, each period ending on the first Saturday after June 30.  Fiscal year 2008 is a 52 week fiscal year ending on July 5, 2008. The quarters ended October 6, 2007 and September 30, 2006 both include 13 weeks.

 

16



 

                The following table sets forth certain financial data as a percentage of net sales for the periods indicated:

 

 

 

 

Quarters Ended

 

 

 

October 6,

 

September 30,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales

 

100.0

%

100.0

%

Cost of sales, including production and occupancy (1)

 

52.5

 

49.5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross margin

 

47.5

 

50.5

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses (2)

 

34.9

 

32.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income

 

12.6

 

18.5

 

Interest and other income, net

 

2.3

 

2.0

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income before income taxes

 

14.9

 

20.5

 

Provision for income taxes

 

5.4

 

7.5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

9.5

%

13.0

%

 


(1)                                  Cost of sales includes the cost of merchandise, occupancy costs, distribution center and production costs.

(2)                                  Selling, general and administrative expenses primarily consist of non-occupancy store costs, corporate overhead and advertising costs.

 

Net Sales. Net sales increased to $161.1 million during the quarter ended October 6, 2007 from $157.1 million for the comparable period of the prior year, an increase of $4.0 million, or 2.5%. The increase in sales was primarily due to a $13.8 million increase in sales for stores not included in the comparable store sales base, a $1.5 million increase in on-line sales, a $1.4 million increase in wholesale sales to international licensees and a $0.3 million increase in loyalty revenue. The increase was partially offset by a  9.3% decrease in comparable store sales totaling $13.1 million during the quarter ended October 6, 2007 as compared to the same quarter in the prior year.

 

17



 

 

 

Quarters Ended

 

 

 

October 6,

 

September 30,

 

 

 

2007

 

2006

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales (In thousands)

 

$

161,082

 

$

157,059

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total net sales increase percentage

 

2.5

%

24.5

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

Comparable store sales increase (decrease) percentage

 

(9.3

)%

12.8

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net sales per average square foot (1)

 

$

158

 

$

176

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Square footage at end of period (In thousands)

 

1,013

 

898

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Number of store locations:

 

 

 

 

 

Beginning of period

 

273

 

242

 

New store locations

 

6

 

6

 

Closed store locations

 

0

 

0

 

Number of stores open at end of period

 

279

 

248

 

 


(1)  We calculate net sales per average square foot using net store sales and a monthly average store square footage.

 

Gross Margin. Gross margin decreased to $76.5 million during the quarter ended October 6, 2007 from $79.3 million for the comparable quarter of the prior year, a decrease of $2.8 million, or 3.5%. As a percentage of net sales, gross margin decreased to 47.5% for the quarter ended October 6, 2007 from 50.5% in the comparable quarter of the prior year. The decrease in gross margin as a percentage of net sales resulted primarily due to higher markdowns partially offset by higher initial markup and unfavorable occupancy leverage. The decrease was further offset by a reduction in raw material reserves.

 

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses, which primarily consist of non-occupancy store costs, corporate overhead and advertising costs, increased to $56.2 million during the quarter ended October 6, 2007 from $50.3 million for the comparable period of the prior year, an increase of $5.9 million, or 11.7 %. As a percentage of net sales, these expenses increased to 34.9% during the quarter from 32.0% in the comparable period of the prior year. The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of net sales from the prior year of 2.9% was primarily due to a $2.7 million increase in total compensation expense, which includes a stock based compensation expense increase of $0.6 million, a $1.1 million increase in advertising expense and a $1.1 million increase in depreciation expense.

 

 Interest and Other Income, Net. We generated approximately $3.7 million of interest and other income (net of other expenses) during the quarter ended October 6, 2007 compared to approximately $3.2 million in the comparable quarter of the prior year. The increase was the result of higher average cash balances and higher interest rates.

 

Provision for Income Taxes. Our effective tax rate decreased to 36% for the quarter ended October 6, 2007 from 36.5% for the comparable period in the prior year primarily due to an increase in our allowable domestic manufacturing deduction.

 

18



 

Seasonality of Business and Quarterly Results

 

Our business varies with general seasonal trends that are characteristic of the retail and apparel industries. As a result, our typical store generates a higher percentage of our annual net sales and profitability in the second quarter of our fiscal year, which includes the holiday selling season, compared to the other quarters of our fiscal year. If for any reason our sales were below seasonal norms during the second quarter of our fiscal year, our annual operating results would be negatively impacted. Because of the seasonality of our business, results for any quarter are not necessarily indicative of results that may be achieved for a full fiscal year.

 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

 

Our working capital requirements vary widely throughout the year and generally peak during the first and second fiscal quarters. At October 6, 2007, we had approximately $324.5 million of cash and equivalents and short-term marketable securities on hand. In addition, we had a revolving line of credit, under which we could borrow or issue letters of credit up to a combined total of $25.0 million. As of October 6, 2007, there were no cash borrowings outstanding under the line of credit, and letters of credit outstanding totaled $2.1 million.

 

Net cash provided by operating activities for the quarter ended October 6, 2007 was $17.5 million versus $23.0 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2006. Cash provided by operating activities for the period was primarily generated by income of $15.4 million adjusted for stock compensation of $3.0 million, depreciation of $5.4 million and deferred rent of $3.4 million, as well as changes in working capital. The changes in working capital were primarily due to an increase in accounts payable of $5.9 million, partially offset by an increase in inventory of $7.9 million due to the preparation for the fall and holiday selling season and an increase in prepaid expenses of $3.6 million as a result of the timing of tax payments.

 

Net cash provided by investing activities for the quarter ended October 6, 2007 was $33.3 million versus net cash used by investing activities of $11.1 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2006. Cash provided by investing activities for the period was primarily due to the sales of marketable securities of $184.5 million, partially offset by purchases of marketable securities of $141.3 million and capital expenditures of $9.8 million related to the opening of new stores. We opened 6 new stores in the quarter ended October 6, 2007 and expect to open approximately 40 stores during fiscal 2008. We estimate that total capital expenditures will be approximately $45 million in fiscal 2008.

 

Net cash used by financing activities was $75.8 million for the quarter ended October 6, 2007 versus net cash provided by financing activities of $1.1 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2006. Cash used by financing activities for the quarter was primarily due to the purchase of 5 million shares of our outstanding common stock totaling $66.9 million and payments of quarterly dividends for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 and the first quarter of fiscal 2008 totaling $9.4 million, partially offset by proceeds received from stock option exercises of $0.4 million and the related tax benefit of $0.2 million.

 

During the quarter we entered into an agreement with our former Vice Chairperson Neda Mashouf to purchase 5 million shares of our common stock beneficially owned by Ms. Mashouf at a price per share of $13.39, an aggregate purchase price of $66,950,000.  We may purchase additional shares from Ms. Mashouf or other shareholders in the future.

 

We believe that our cash on hand, together with our cash flows from operations, will be sufficient to meet our capital and operating requirements for at least the next twelve months. Our future capital requirements, however, will depend on numerous factors, including without limitation, the size and number of new and

 

19



 

expanded stores and/or store concepts, investment costs for management information systems, potential acquisitions and/or joint ventures, repurchase of stock and future results of operations.

 

Inflation

 

We do not believe that inflation has had a material effect on the results of operations in the recent past. However, we cannot assure you that our business will not be affected by inflation in the future.

 

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
 

We are exposed to market risks, which include changes in U.S. interest rates and, to a lesser extent, foreign exchange rates. We do not engage in financial transactions for trading or speculative purposes.

 

Interest Rate Risk

 

We currently maintain a portfolio of variable interest rate investments consisting of cash equivalents and short-term marketable securities. Marketable securities consist of closed-end variable interest rate funds that invest primarily in tax-exempt municipal bonds. Due to the variable nature of these investments, their value is typically not subject to market rate changes. According to our investment policy, we may invest in taxable and tax exempt instruments. In addition, the policy establishes limits on credit quality, maturity, issuer and type of instrument. Marketable securities are classified as “available for sale”. We do not use derivative financial instruments in our investment portfolio.

 

All highly liquid investments with a maturity of three months or less at the date of purchase are considered to be cash equivalents. Investments are considered short-term marketable securities if the original maturity is between three months and twelve months, or long-term marketable securities if the original maturity is greater than twelve months. Auction rate securities have stated maturities beyond one year but are priced and traded as short-term instruments due to the liquidity provided through the interest rate reset mechanism and are classified as short-term when they represent investments of cash that are intended for use in current operations.

 

The following table lists our cash equivalents and short-term marketable securities at October 6, 2007:

 

 

 

Book Value

 

Fair Value

 

 

 

(Dollars in thousands)

 

Cash equivalents

 

$

27,771

 

$

27,771

 

Weighted average interest rate (1)

 

3.51

%

 

 

Short-term marketable securities

 

283,925

 

283,925

 

Weighted average interest rate (1)

 

4.55

%

 

 

Total

 

$

311,696

 

$

311,696

 

 


(1)  Represents the weighted average interest rate for tax exempt municipal bonds, municipal preferreds, corporate preferreds and taxable and tax exempt institutional money market instruments.

 

The interest payable on outstanding cash borrowings under our bank line of credit is based on variable interest rates and therefore affected by changes in market

 

20



 

interest rates. As we have no outstanding cash borrowings, if interest rates rose significantly, our results from operations and cash flows would not be affected.

 

Foreign Currency Risks

 

We enter into a significant amount of purchase obligations outside of the United States, substantially all of which are negotiated and settled in U.S. Dollars and, therefore, have only minimal exposure to foreign currency exchange risks. We also operate a subsidiary for which the functional currency is the Canadian Dollar. In accordance with SFAS No. 52, “Foreign Currency Translation”, assets and liabilities of Canada’s operations are translated into U.S. dollars at quarter-end rates, while income and expenses are translated at the weighted average exchange rates for the quarter. The related translation adjustments are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income as a separate component of shareholders’ equity. Fluctuations in exchange rates therefore impact our financial condition and results of operations, as reported in U.S. Dollars.   We do not hedge against foreign currency risks and believe that foreign currency exchange risk is immaterial.

 

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
 

(a)           Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures, as such term is defined under Rule 13a-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report at the reasonable assurance level.

 

(b)           There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended October 6, 2007 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

21



 

PART II  OTHER INFORMATION
 

ITEM 1.  LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

 

See the Legal Matters section of the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements for a discussion of legal proceedings.

 

ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

 

Our past performance may not be a reliable indicator of future performance because actual future results and trends may differ materially depending on a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, the risks and uncertainties discussed below. In addition, historical trends should not be used to anticipate results or trends in future periods.

 

Factors that might cause our actual results to differ materially from the forward looking statements discussed elsewhere in this report, as well as affect our ability to achieve our financial and other goals, include, but are not limited to, those set forth below. There have been no material changes in our risk factors from those disclosed in Part I, Item 1A of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended July 7, 2007.

 

RISKS RELATING TO OUR BUSINESS:

 

1. The success of our business depends in large part on our ability to identify fashion trends as well as to react to changing customer demand in a timely manner. Consequently, we depend in part upon the customer response to the creative efforts of our merchandising, design and marketing teams and their ability to anticipate trends and fashions that will appeal to our consumer base. If we miscalculate our customers’ product preferences or the demand for our products, we may be faced with excess inventory. Historically, this type of occurrence has resulted in excess fabric for some products and markdowns and/or write-offs, which has impaired our profitability, and may do so in the future. Similarly, any failure on our part to anticipate, identify and respond effectively to changing consumer demands and fashion trends will adversely affect our sales.

 

2. If we are unable to obtain raw materials, or unable to find manufacturing facilities or if our manufacturers perform unacceptably, our sales may be negatively affected and our financial condition may be harmed. We do not own any manufacturing facilities and therefore depend on contractors and third parties to manufacture our products. We place all of our orders for production of merchandise and raw materials by purchase order and do not have any long-term contracts with any manufacturer or supplier. If we fail to maintain favorable relationships with our manufacturers and suppliers or are unable to obtain sufficient quantities of quality raw materials on commercially reasonable terms, it could harm our business and results of operations. We cannot assure you that contractors and third-party manufacturers (1) will not supply similar products to our competitors, (2) will not stop supplying products to us completely or (3) will supply products in a timely manner. Untimely receipt of products may result in lower than anticipated sales and markdowns which would have a negative impact on earnings. Furthermore, we have received in the past, and may receive in the future, shipments of products from manufacturers that fail to conform to our quality control standards. In such event, unless we are able to obtain replacement products in a timely manner, we may lose sales. Certain of our third-party manufacturers store our raw materials. In the event our inventory is damaged or destroyed while in storage and we are unable to obtain replacement raw materials, our earnings may be negatively impacted.

 

22



 

3. Our success depends on our ability to attract and retain qualified employees in order to support our existing business and future expansion. From time to time we actively recruit qualified candidates to fill key executive positions from within the Company. There is substantial competition for experienced personnel, which we expect will continue. We compete for experienced personnel with companies who have greater financial resources than we do. In the past, we have experienced significant turnover of our executive management team and retail store personnel. We are also exposed to employment practice litigation due to the large number of employees and high turnover of our sales associates. If we fail to attract, motivate, and retain qualified personnel, it could harm our business and limit our ability to expand.

 

In addition, we depend on the expertise and execution of our key employees, particularly Manny Mashouf, our founder and Chairman of the Board, and Gregory Scott, our Chief Executive Officer and member of the Board of Directors. If we lose the services of Mr. Mashouf or Mr. Scott, or any key officers or employees, it could harm our business and results of operations.

 

4. If we are not able to successfully develop new concepts, including BEBE SPORT, our revenue base and earnings may be impaired. From time to time, we may pursue new concepts. If the BEBE SPORT or other new concepts are not successful, our financial condition may be harmed.

 

5. We cannot assure you that future store openings will be successful, and new store openings may impact existing stores. We expect to open approximately 40 stores in fiscal 2008, of which 25 to 27 will be bebe stores, 8 to 10 will be BEBE SPORT stores and 3 to 5 will be 2b bebe stores. We cannot assure you that the stores that we plan to open in fiscal 2008, or any other stores that we might open in the future, will be successful or that our overall operating profit will increase as a result of opening these stores. During fiscal 2008 we anticipate closing up to 4 stores. For fiscal 2008, we plan to grow our operations primarily through the opening of new stores. Most of our new store openings in fiscal 2008 will be in existing markets. These openings may affect the existing stores’ net sales and profitability. Our failure to predict accurately the demographic or retail environment at any future store location could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Our ability to effectively obtain real estate to open new stores depends upon the availability of real estate that meets our criteria, including traffic, square footage, co-tenancies, average sales per square foot, lease economics, demographics, and other factors, and our ability to negotiate terms that meet our financial targets. In addition, we must be able to effectively renew our existing store leases. Failure to secure real estate locations adequate to meet annual targets as well as effectively managing the profitability of our existing fleet of stores could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.

 

6. We are subject to risks associated with our online sales. We operate an on-line store at www.bebe.com to sell our merchandise. Although our online sales encompass a relatively small percentage of our total sales, our on-line operations are subject to numerous risks, including unanticipated operating problems, reliance on third-party computer hardware and software providers, system failures and the need to invest in additional computer systems. The on-line operations also involve other risks that could have an impact on our results of operations including but not limited to diversion of sales from our other stores, rapid technological change, liability for online content, security breaches, consumer privacy concerns, credit card fraud, and risks related to the failure of the computer systems that operate the website and its related support systems. In addition, given our use of a third party platform, we do not have direct control of certain aspects of our on-line business. We cannot assure

 

23



 

you that our on-line store will continue to achieve sales and profitability growth or even remain at its current level.

 

7. Any serious disruption at our major facilities could have a harmful effect on our business. We currently operate a corporate office in Brisbane, California, a distribution facility in Benicia, California, and a design studio and production facility in Los Angeles, California. Any serious disruption at these facilities whether due to construction, relocation, fire, earthquake, terrorist acts or otherwise would harm our operations and could have a harmful effect on our business and results of operations. Furthermore, we have little experience operating essential functions away from our main corporate offices and are uncertain what effect operating such satellite facilities might have on business, personnel and results of operations.

 

8. We rely on information technology, the disruption of which could adversely impact our business. We rely on various information systems to manage our operations and regularly make investments to upgrade, enhance or replace such systems. To support our growth we initiated a three year IS&T strategic plan and we are currently entering year three of this plan. If we fail to successfully implement the plan, our business could be adversely affected.

 

9. We face significant competition in the retail and apparel industry, which could harm our sales and profitability. The retail and apparel industries are highly competitive and are characterized by low barriers to entry. We expect competition in our markets to increase. The primary competitive factors in our markets are: brand name recognition, sourcing, product styling, quality, presentation and pricing, timeliness of product development and delivery, store ambiance, customer service and convenience. We compete with traditional department stores, specialty store retailers, business to consumer websites, off-price retailers and direct marketers for, among other things, raw materials, market share, retail space, finished goods, sourcing and personnel. Because many of these competitors are larger and have substantially greater financial, distribution and marketing resources than we do, we may lack the resources to adequately compete with them. If we fail to remain competitive in any way, it could harm our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

10. Purchases of the merchandise we sell are generally discretionary and are therefore particularly susceptible to economic conditions. The outlook for the United States economy is uncertain and is directly affected by global factors that are beyond our control. Such factors include disposable consumer income, oil prices, recession and fears of recession, war and fears of war, terrorist attacks, inclement weather, consumer debt, interest rates, sales tax rates, consumer confidence in future economic conditions and political conditions, and consumer perceptions of personal well-being and security. Consumers are generally more willing to make discretionary purchases, including purchases of fashion products, during periods in which favorable economic conditions prevail. If economic conditions change, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected. We cannot predict the indirect effects such as rising oil and freight prices, consumer spending or other economic factors that natural disasters will have on our results of operations.

 

11. Our business could be adversely impacted by unfavorable international political conditions. Due to our international operations, our sales and operating results are, and will continue to be, affected by international social, political, legal and economic conditions. In particular, our business could be adversely impacted by instability or changes resulting in the disruption of trade with the countries in which our contractors, suppliers or customers are located, significant fluctuations in the value of the dollar against foreign currencies or restrictions on the transfer of funds, or additional trade restrictions imposed by the United States and other foreign governments. Trade restrictions, including increased tariffs or quotas, embargoes, and customs restrictions could increase the cost or reduce the supply of merchandise

 

24



 

available to the company and adversely affect its financial condition and results of operations. In addition, we purchase a substantial amount of our raw materials from China and our business and operating results may be affected by changes in the political, social or economic environment in China.

 

12. If we are not able to successfully protect our intellectual property our ability to capitalize on the value of our brand name may be impaired. Even though we take actions to establish, register and protect our trademarks and other proprietary rights, we cannot assure you that we will be successful or that others will not imitate our products or infringe upon our intellectual property rights. In addition, we cannot assure that others will not resist or seek to block the sale of our products as infringements of their trademark and proprietary rights.

 

We are seeking to register our trademarks domestically and internationally. Obstacles may exist that may prevent us from obtaining a trademark for the bebe name or related names. We may not be able to register certain trademarks, purchase the right or obtain a license to use the bebe name or related names on commercially reasonable terms. If we fail to obtain trademark, ownership or license the requisite rights, it would limit our ability to expand. In some jurisdictions, despite successful registration of our trademarks, third parties may allege infringement and bring actions against us. In addition, if our licensees fail to use our intellectual property correctly, the reputation and value associated with our trademarks may be diluted. Furthermore, if we do not demonstrate use of our trademarks, our trademark rights may lapse over time.

 

13. If an independent manufacturer violates labor or other laws, or is accused of violating any such laws, or if their labor practices diverge from those generally accepted as ethical, it could harm our business and brand image. While we maintain a policy to monitor the operations of our independent manufacturers by having an independent firm inspect these manufacturing sites, and all manufacturers are contractually required to comply with such labor practices, we cannot control the actions or the public’s perceptions of such manufacturers, nor can we assure that these manufacturers will conduct their businesses using ethical or legal labor practices. Apparel companies can be held jointly liable for the wrongdoings of the manufacturers of their products. While we do not control their employees’ employment conditions or the manufacturers’ business practices, and the manufacturers act in their own interest, they may act in a manner that results in negative public perceptions of us and/or employee allegations or court determinations that we are jointly liable.

 

RISKS RELATING TO OUR COMMON STOCK:

 

1. Our stock price may fluctuate because of the relatively low number of shares that can be publicly traded. The vast majority of our outstanding shares of our common stock are subject to trading restrictions. As of October 6, 2007, of the approximately  89,000,000 shares of our common stock then outstanding, approximately 27,000,000 shares were available to be publicly traded, and as a result, our stock price is vulnerable to market swings due to large purchases, sales and short sales of our common stock.

 

2. Because Manny Mashouf beneficially owns a substantial portion  of the outstanding shares, other shareholders may not be able to influence the direction the company takes. As of October 31, 2007, Manny Mashouf, the Chairman of the Board, beneficially owned approximately 57% of the outstanding shares of our common stock. As a result, he can control the election of directors and the outcome of all issues submitted to the shareholders. This may make it more difficult for a third party to acquire shares, may discourage acquisition bids, and could limit the price that certain investors might be willing to pay for shares of

 

25



 

common stock. This concentration of stock ownership may have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control of our company.

 

3. Our significant shareholders hold a substantial portion of our stock which may result in the trading volatility or may adversely affect our common stock. As of  October 31, 2007, Ms. Neda Mashouf beneficially owned approximately 13% of the outstanding shares of our common stock. As a result, any change in ownership of a significant portion of these shares, including sales by Ms. Mashouf, may result in trading volatility in our common stock or may adversely affect our stock price.

 

4. Our sales, margins and operating results are subject to seasonal and quarterly fluctuations. Our business varies with general seasonal trends that are characteristic of the retail and apparel industries, such as the timing of seasonal wholesale shipments and other events affecting retail sales. As a result, our stores typically generate a higher percentage of our annual net sales and profitability in the second quarter of our fiscal year, which includes the holiday selling season, compared to other quarters.

 

In addition, our comparable store sales have fluctuated significantly in the past, and we expect that they will continue to fluctuate in the future. A variety of factors affect comparable store sales, including fashion trends, competition, current economic conditions, the timing of release of new merchandise and promotional events, changes in our merchandise mix, the success of marketing programs and weather conditions. Our ability to deliver strong comparable store sales results and margins depends in large part on accurately forecasting demand and fashion trends, selecting effective marketing techniques, providing an appropriate mix of merchandise for our customer base, managing inventory effectively, and optimizing store performance by closing under performing stores. Such fluctuations may adversely affect the market price of our common stock.

 

5. Failure to comply with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 could negatively impact investor confidence. In order to meet the requirements of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 in future periods, we must continuously document, test, monitor and enhance our internal control over financial reporting. We cannot assure you that the periodic evaluation of our internal controls required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act will not result in the identification of significant control deficiencies and/or material weaknesses or that our auditors will be able to attest to the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting. Failure to maintain the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting or to comply with the requirements of this Act could have a material adverse effect on our reputation, financial condition and market price of our common stock.

 

ITEM 2.  UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
 

Issuers Purchases of Equity Securities

 

On September 13, 2007, we entered into an agreement with our former Vice Chairperson Neda Mashouf to purchase 5 million shares of our outstanding common stock beneficially owned by Ms. Mashouf at a price per share of $13.39, an aggregate purchase price of $66,950,000.  As of October 6, 2007, we completed the purchase and retired the shares.

 

ITEM 3.  DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 4.  SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
 

Not applicable.

 

26



 

ITEM 5.  OTHER INFORMATION
 

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 6.  EXHIBITS
 

(a) Exhibits. The following is a list of exhibits filed as part of this Report on Form 10-Q.

 

Exhibit

 

Description

 

 

 

31.1

 

Section 302 Certification of Chief Executive Officer.

31.2

 

Section 302 Certification of Chief Financial Officer.

32.1

 

Section 906 Certification of Chief Executive Officer.

32.2

 

Section 906 Certification of Chief Financial Officer.

 

27



 

SIGNATURE

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

 

Dated November 15, 2007

 

 

 

bebe stores, inc.

 

 

 

/s/  Walter Parks

 

 

 

 

Walter Parks, Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial
Officer

 

28



 

EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit Number

 

Description

 

 

 

31.1

 

Section 302 Certification of Chief Executive Officer

31.2

 

Section 302 Certification of Chief Financial Officer

32.1

 

Section 906 Certification of Chief Executive Officer

32.2

 

Section 906 Certification of Chief Financial Officer

 

29