a6018013.htm

FORM 6-K
 
 
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

 
Report of Foreign Private Issuer
Pursuant to Rule 13a - 16 under
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the month of August 2009

ICON plc
 (Registrant’s name)


0-29714
(Commission file number)


South County Business Park, Leopardstown, Dublin 18, Ireland.

 (Address of principal executive offices)
 
Ciaran Murray, CFO
South County Business Park, Leopardstown, Dublin 18, Ireland.
Ciaran.Murray@Iconplc.com
0011-353-1-291-2000

(Name, telephone number, email and/or facsimile number and
address of Company Contact person)


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover Form 20-F or Form 40-F.

Yes___X___                                                No_______

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1):

Yes______                                                No___X___

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7):

Yes______                                                No___X___

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant by furnishing the information contained in this Form is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

Yes_______                                                No___X___

If “Yes” is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in connection with Rule 12g3-2(b):82N/A


 
 

 

ICON plc


This report on Form 6-K is hereby incorporated by reference in the registration statement on Form F-3 (Registration No. 333-159972) of ICON plc and in the prospectus contained therein, and this report on Form 6-K shall be deemed a part of such registration statement from the date on which this report is filed, to the extent not superseded by documents or reports subsequently filed or furnished by ICON plc under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 
1

 
 
ICON plc

GENERAL

As used herein, “ICON”, the “Company” and “we” refer to ICON plc and its consolidated subsidiaries, unless the context requires otherwise.

Business

We are a contract research organization, or CRO, providing clinical research and development services on a global basis to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device industries. Our focus is on supporting the conduct of clinical trials. We have historically done so by providing such services as Phase I – IV clinical trials management, study design, laboratory services and drug development support. We believe that we are one of a select group of CROs with the capability and expertise to conduct clinical trials in most major therapeutic areas on a global basis.  We have approximately 7,000 employees worldwide, with operations in 71 locations in 38 countries, including the United States and major markets in Europe and Rest of World. For the six months ended June 30, 2009 we derived approximately 49.3%, 42.9% and 7.8% of our net revenue in the United States, Europe and Rest of World, respectively.

Headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, we began operations in 1990 and have expanded our business through internal growth and strategic acquisitions.

Recent Developments

Bonus Issue

On July 21, 2008, the Company’s shareholders approved a bonus issue of ordinary shares (the “Bonus Issue”) to shareholders of record as of the close of business on August 8, 2008 (the “Record Date”).  The Bonus Issue provided for each shareholder to receive one bonus ordinary share for each ordinary share held as of the Record Date, effecting the equivalent of a 2-for-1 stock split.  The Bonus shares were issued on August 11, 2008, to Ordinary Shareholders and on August 12, 2008, to holders of American Depositary Shares (“ADSs”).  The trading price of ICON’s ADSs was adjusted on NASDAQ to effect the Bonus Issue prior to the opening of trading on August 13, 2008.  All outstanding ordinary share amounts referenced in the condensed consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto have been retrospectively restated to give effect to the Bonus Issue as if it had occurred as of the date referenced.
 
Acquisitions
 
On July 9, 2009, the Company acquired 100% of the common stock of Veeda Laboratories Limited, a specialist provider of biomarker laboratory services to the global pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, located in Oxford, United Kingdom, for an initial cash consideration of $1.9 million (Stg£1.2 million).
 
On April 28, 2009, the Company acquired the assets of the former Qualia Clinical Services, Inc., a 33,000 square foot Phase 1 facility, located in Omaha, Nebraska, for $0.3 million.
 
On July 1, 2004, the Company acquired 70% of the common stock of Beacon Biosciences Inc. (“Beacon”), a leading specialist CRO, which provides a range of medical imaging services to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device industries, for an initial cash consideration of $9.9 million, excluding costs of acquisition.  On December 31, 2008, the remaining 30% of the common stock was acquired by the Company for $17.4 million, excluding costs of acquisition.
 
On November 14, 2008, the Company acquired 100% of the common stock of Prevalere Life Sciences Inc. (“Prevalere”), for an initial cash consideration of $37.7 million, excluding costs of acquisition.  On April 30, 2009, a further $5.0 million was paid in respect of certain performance milestones for the year ended December 31, 2008.  Prevalere, located in Whitesboro, New York, is a leading provider of bioanalytical and immunoassay services to pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies.
 
 
2

 
 
On February 11, 2008, the Company acquired 100% of the common stock of Healthcare Discoveries Inc., for an initial cash consideration of $10.9 million, excluding costs of acquisition.  Healthcare Discoveries, located in San Antonio, Texas, is engaged in the provision of Phase I clinical trial management services.
 

Bank Credit Lines and Loan Facilities

On July 9, 2007, ICON plc entered into a five year committed multi-currency facility agreement for €35 million ($49.2 million) with The Governor and Company of the Bank of Ireland.  The facility bears interest at an annual rate equal to the EURIBOR plus a margin and is secured by certain composite guarantees, indemnities and pledges in favor of the bank.  At June 30, 2009, this facility was fully drawn with €30.6 million ($43.0 million) outstanding under the repayment terms of the facility.

On December 22, 2008, committed credit facilities were negotiated with Allied Irish Bank plc for $75 million.  The facilities comprise a one year Euro facility of approximately €20 million ($28.1 million), with the balance comprising a three year US dollar facility.  The Euro facility bears interest at EURIBOR plus a margin and the US dollar facility bears interest at LIBOR plus a margin. Both facilities are secured by certain composite guarantees and pledges in favour of the bank.  As at June 30, 2009, $21.1 million (€15.0 million) was drawn under these facilities.
 
On January 2, 2009, an additional four year committed credit facility was negotiated with The Governor and Company of the Bank of Ireland for $25 million. The facility bears interest at LIBOR plus a margin and is secured by certain composite guarantees, indemnities and pledges in favour of the bank.  As at June 30, 2009, $25 million was available to be drawn under this facility.

On May 29, 2009, committed credit facilities were negotiated with Citibank Europe for $20 million.  The facilities comprise a 364 day facility of $10 million and a three year facility of $10 million.  On the same day, a committed 364 day credit facility of $30 million was negotiated with JP Morgan.  These facilities bear interest at LIBOR plus a margin and are secured by certain composite guarantees and pledges in favour of the bank.  As at June 30, 2009, no amounts had been drawn under these facilities.
 
 
3

 
 
ICON plc
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
AS AT JUNE 30, 2009 AND DECEMBER 31, 2008
 
 
   
(Unaudited)
   
(Audited)
 
ASSETS   
June 30, 2009
   
December 31, 2008
 
    (in thousands)  
Current Assets:
           
Cash and cash equivalents
  $ 53,381     $ 58,378  
Short term investments - available for sale
    93,923       42,726  
Accounts receivable
    208,461       210,535  
Unbilled revenue
    114,028       141,727  
Other receivables
    11,230       11,196  
Deferred tax asset
    9,765       5,609  
Prepayments and other current assets
    26,394       24,332  
Income taxes receivable
    5,118       5,776  
Total current assets
    522,300       500,279  
Other Assets:
               
Property, plant and equipment, net
    175,046       171,748  
Goodwill
    173,394       169,344  
Non-current other assets
    2,865       2,179  
Non-current income taxes receivable
    5,148       4,840  
Non-current deferred tax asset
    9,175       8,271  
Intangible asset
    9,550       10,624  
Total Assets
  $ 897,478     $ 867,285  
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
Current Liabilities:
               
Accounts payable
  $ 8,919     $ 17,505  
Payments on account
    158,823       121,935  
Other liabilities
    113,209       130,223  
Deferred tax liability
    998       1,356  
Bank credit lines and loan facilities
    33,371       40,193  
Income taxes payable
    9,507       3,110  
Total current liabilities
    324,827       314,322  
Other Liabilities:
               
Long term government grants
    1,318       1,386  
Long term finance leases
    313       470  
Non-current income taxes payable
    17,262       15,949  
Non-current deferred tax liability
    13,018       12,196  
Non-current other liabilities
    2,080       1,410  
Non-current bank credit lines & loan facilities
    30,736       65,186  
  Shareholders' Equity:
               
Ordinary shares, par value 6 euro cents per share; 100,000,000 shares authorized,
               
58,599,104 shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2009 and
               
58,518,195 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2008
    4,929       4,921  
Additional paid-in capital
    166,091       162,057  
Accumulated other comprehensive income
    11,220       3,178  
Retained earnings
    325,684       286,210  
Total Shareholders' Equity
    507,924       456,366  
Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity
  $ 897,478     $ 867,285  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
4

 
 
ICON plc

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE THREE AND SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2009 AND JUNE 30, 2008
(UNAUDITED)
 
    Three Months Ended    
Six Months Ended
 
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
(in thousands except share and per share data)
 
Revenue:
                       
Gross revenue
  $ 300,969     $ 316,592     $ 619,507     $ 600,445  
Reimbursable expenses
    (80,968 )     (98,292 )     (179,675 )     (180,801 )
                                 
Net revenue
    220,001       218,300       439,832       419,644  
                                 
Costs and expenses:
                               
Direct costs
    125,146       122,976       249,314       236,165  
Selling, general and administrative expense
    58,010       64,289       119,268       124,834  
Depreciation and amortization
    7,526       6,641       15,016       12,739  
    One-time net charges
    8,941       -       8,941       -  
                                 
Total costs and expenses
    199,623       193,906       392,539       373,738  
                                 
Income from operations
    20,378       24,394       47,293       45,906  
Interest income
    85       610       573       1,543  
Interest expense
    (960 )     (1,086 )     (2,184 )     (2,062 )
                                 
Income before provision for income taxes
    19,503       23,918       45,682       45,387  
Provision for income taxes (including one-time credits)
    (973 )     (4,891 )     (6,208 )     (9,138 )
Minority interest
    -       (206 )     -       (534 )
                                 
Net income
  $ 18,530     $ 18,821     $ 39,474     $ 35,715  
Net income per Ordinary Share:
                               
Basic
  $ 0.32     $ 0.32     $ 0.67     $ 0.62  
    Diluted                                                                           
  $ 0.31     $ 0.31     $ 0.66     $ 0.59  
                                 
Weighted average number of Ordinary Shares outstanding:
                               
 Basic     58,576,384       58,213,388       58,557,089       58,009,324  
 Diluted     59,674,939       60,313,126       59,716,244       60,167,978  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
5

 
 
ICON plc

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2009 AND JUNE 30, 2008
(UNAUDITED)
 
   
Six Months Ended
 
   
June 30, 2009
   
June 30, 2008
 
   
(in thousands)
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
           
Net income
  $ 39,474     $ 35,715  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by
operating activities:
               
Loss on disposal of property, plant and equipment
    181       152  
Depreciation and amortization
    15,016       12,739  
Amortization of grants
    (72 )     (64 )
     Share compensation expense
    3,257       2,829  
     Deferred taxes
    (4,566 )     (3,797 )
     Minority interest
    -       534  
Changes in assets and liabilities:
               
Decrease/(increase) in accounts receivable
    6,328       (85,819 )
Decrease in unbilled revenue
    26,617       208  
Decrease/(increase) in other receivables
    129       (2,574 )
Increase in prepayments and other current assets
    (1,523 )     (4,711 )
     Increase in other non current assets
    (686 )     (207 )
Increase in payments on account
    37,378       67,772  
Increase in other current liabilities
    6,892       3,517  
     Increase in other non current liabilities
    671       175  
     Increase in income taxes payable
    7,537       3,894  
     Decrease in accounts payable
    (8,570 )     (1,950 )
                 
Net cash provided by operating activities
    128,063       28,413  
                 
Cash flows from investing activities:
               
Purchase of property, plant and equipment
    (16,384 )     (35,486 )
Purchase of subsidiary undertakings & acquisition costs
    (24,086 )     (11,977 )
Purchase of short term investments
    (67,553 )     (15,000 )
Sale of short term investments
    16,544       14,026  
Cash acquired with subsidiary undertaking
    -       5  
                 
Net cash used in investing activities
    (91,479 )     (48,432 )
                 
Cash flows from financing activities:
               
Drawdown of bank credit lines and loan facilities
    17,400       3,941  
Repayment of credit lines and facilities
    (60,719 )     -  
Proceeds from exercise of share options
    786       7,143  
Share issuance costs
    (56 )     (45 )
Tax benefit from the exercise of share options
    55       3,706  
Repayment of other liabilities
    (156 )     (17 )
Net cash (used in)/provided by financing activities
    (42,690 )     14,728  
Effect of exchange rate movements on cash
    1,109       73  
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
    (4,997 )     (5,218 )
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
    58,378       76,881  
                 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
  $ 53,381     $ 71,663  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
 
6

 
 
ICON plc

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(UNAUDITED)
 
   
Shares
   
Amount
   
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
   
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income
   
Retained
Earnings
   
Total
 
   
(dollars in thousands, except per share data)
       
                                     
Balance at December 31, 2008
    58,518,195     $ 4,921     $ 162,057     $ 3,178     $ 286,210     $ 456,366  
                                                 
Comprehensive Income:
                                               
Net income
                                    39,474       39,474  
Currency translation adjustment (net of tax)
                      8,042               8,042  
Total comprehensive income
                                            47,516  
Share issuance costs
                    (56                     (56
Exercise of share options
    80,909       8       778                       786  
Non-cash stock compensation expense
                    3,257                       3,257  
Tax benefit on exercise of share options
                    55                       55  
                                                 
Balance at June 30, 2009
    58,599,104     $ 4,929     $ 166,091     $ 11,220     $ 325,684     $ 507,924  
 
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.
 
7

 
 
 ICON plc

NOTES TO THE CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
JUNE 30, 2009


1. Basis of Presentation

These condensed consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with United States generally accepted accounting principles (“US GAAP”), have not been audited. The condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments, which are, in the opinion of management, necessary to present a fair statement of the operating results and financial position for the periods presented. The preparation of the condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with US GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect reported amounts and disclosures in the condensed consolidated financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

The condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the accounting policies and notes to the consolidated financial statements included in ICON’s Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2008. Operating results for the six months ended June 30, 2009, are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the fiscal period ending December 31, 2009.
 
2. Goodwill

   
June 30,
   
December 31,
 
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
(in thousands)
 
Opening balance
  $ 169,344     $ 123,879  
Additions
    822       55,674  
Foreign exchange movement
    3,228       (10,209 )
                 
Closing balance
  $ 173,394     $ 169,344  
 
 
Acquisition of the assets of the former Qualia Clinical Service, Inc.

On April 28, 2009, the Company acquired the assets of the former Qualia Clinical Services, Inc., a 33,000 square foot Phase 1 facility, located in Omaha, Nebraska.  The acquisition of the assets of the former Qualia Clinical Services, Inc. has been accounted for as a business combination in accordance with FASB Statement No. 141R Business Combinations “SFAS 141(R)”.  The excess of consideration paid of $0.3 million over the carrying value of the assets acquired of $0.1 million, has been recorded as goodwill of $0.2 million, pending the Company’s finalization of the allocation of total consideration paid to acquired net tangible and intangible assets.
 
 
 
8

 
 
Prior Period Acquisitions

Acquisition of remaining 30% interest in Beacon Biosciences Inc.

On July 1, 2004, the Company acquired 70% of the common stock of Beacon Biosciences Inc. (“Beacon”), a leading specialist CRO, which provides a range of medical imaging services to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device industries, for an initial cash consideration of $9.9 million, excluding costs of acquisition.  On December 31, 2008, the remaining 30% of the common stock was acquired by the Company for $17.4 million, excluding costs of acquisition.  Certain performance milestones were built into the acquisition agreement for the remaining 30% of Beacon requiring potential additional consideration of up to $3.0 million if these milestones are achieved during the year ended December 31, 2009. No amounts have been accrued in respect of the additional consideration payable.
 
The acquisition of Beacon has been accounted for as a business combination in accordance with FASB Statement No. 141 Business Combinations (“SFAS 141”).  The excess of consideration paid of $17.8 million, including costs of acquisition, over the carrying value of minority interest of $1.5 million, has been recorded as goodwill of $16.3 million, pending the Company’s finalization of the allocation of total consideration paid to acquired net tangible and intangible assets.  This allocation will be completed in 2009.   Goodwill represents the acquisition of the minority interest in the net assets of Beacon.

Acquisition of Prevalere Life Sciences Inc.

On November 14, 2008, the Company acquired 100% of the common stock of Prevalere Life Sciences Inc. (“Prevalere”), for an initial cash consideration of $37.7 million, excluding costs of acquisition.  Prevalere, located in Whitesboro, New York, is a leading provider of bioanalytical and immunoassay services to pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies.  Certain performance milestones were built into the acquisition agreement requiring potential additional consideration of up to $8.2 million if these milestones are achieved during the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2009.  On April 30, 2009, $5.0 million was paid in respect of the milestones for the year ended December 31, 2008.  No amounts have been accrued for amounts potentially payable in respect of the year ended December 31, 2009.
 
The acquisition of Prevalere has been accounted for as a business combination in accordance with FASB Statement No. 141 Business Combinations (“SFAS 141”). The following table summarises the fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition.

   
November 14,
 
   
2008
 
   
(in thousands)
 
Property, plant and equipment
  $ 2,614  
Intangible assets
    7,375  
Goodwill
    29,566  
Cash
    270  
Other current assets
    6,504  
Current liabilities
    (2,827 )
Purchase price
  $ 43,502  

Goodwill represents the acquisition of an established workforce with experience in the provision of bioanalytical and immunoassay services to pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies and allows ICON to participate in a growing market for these services.
 
 
9

 
 
Acquisition of Healthcare Discoveries Inc.
 
On February 11, 2008, the Company acquired 100% of the common stock of Healthcare Discoveries Inc., for an initial cash consideration of $10.9 million, excluding costs of acquisition.  Healthcare Discoveries, located in San Antonio, Texas, is engaged in the provision of Phase I clinical trial management services.  Certain performance milestones were built into the acquisition agreement requiring payment of additional consideration of up to $10.0 million if these milestones were achieved during the year ended December 31, 2008.  No additional amounts have been paid as these milestones were not achieved during the year ended December 31, 2008.
 
The acquisition of Healthcare Discoveries has been accounted for as a business combination in accordance with FASB Statement No. 141 Business Combinations (“SFAS 141”). The following table summarises the fair values of the assets acquired and the liabilities assumed at the date of acquisition.

   
February 11,
 
   
2008
 
   
(in thousands)
 
Property, plant and equipment
  $ 327  
Intangible assets
    2,890  
Goodwill
    9,995  
Cash
    5  
Other current assets
    575  
Current liabilities
    (1,951 )
Purchase price
  $ 11,841  

Goodwill represents the acquisition of an established workforce with experience in the provision of Phase I clinical trial management services to pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies

3. One-time net charges

One-time net charges recognised during the three months ended June 30, 2009, comprise:

   
(in thousands)
 
Restructuring charge
  $ 13,434  
Research and development incentives
    (4,493 )
    $ 8,941  

Restructuring Charge
 
In response to the globalization of clinical studies and its attendant impact on resources in existing and emerging markets, the Company conducted a review of its existing infrastructure to better align its resources with the needs of its clients.  This realignment resulted in resource rationalisations in certain more mature markets in which the Company operates.  A restructuring charge of $13.4 million has been recognised during the three months ended June 30, 2009, comprising $8.3 million in respect of office consolidations and $5.1 million is respect of workforce reductions.

Research and Development Tax Incentives

The Company has received research and development incentives in certain jurisdictions in which it operates.  Income of $4.5 million has been recognised during the three months ended June 30, 2009, in respect of these incentives.
 
 
10

 
 
4. Income Taxes
 
   
Three Months Ended
   
Six Months Ended
 
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
(in thousands)
   
(in thousands)
 
             
Provision for income taxes before one-time credits
  $ 5,687     $ 4,891     $ 10,922     $ 9,138  
One-time credits
    (4,714 )     -       (4,714 )     -  
Provision for income taxes after one time credits
  $ 973     $ 4,891     $ 6,208     $ 9,138  

Provision for income taxes for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, are inclusive of one-time credits which comprise corporation tax refunds arising from research and development tax credits received in certain jurisdictions in which the Company operates and the tax effect of restructuring costs recognised.
 
The Company adopted the provisions of FIN 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes (“FIN 48"), effective January 1, 2007. As at June 30, 2009, the Company maintains a $12.1 million liability for unrecognized tax benefit, which is comprised of $9.1 million related to items generating unrecognized tax benefits and $3.0 million for interest and related penalties to such items. The Company recognizes interest and penalties accrued on unrecognized tax benefits as an additional income tax expense.

The Company has analyzed filing positions in all of the significant federal, state and foreign jurisdictions where it is required to file income tax returns, as well as open tax years in these jurisdictions. The only periods subject to examination by the major tax jurisdictions where the Company does business are 2003 through 2008 tax years. The Company does not believe that the outcome of any examination will have a material impact on its financial statements.

 
5. Net income per ordinary share

Basic net income per ordinary share has been computed by dividing net income available to ordinary shareholders by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net income per ordinary share is computed by adjusting the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the period for all potentially dilutive ordinary shares outstanding during the period and adjusting net income for any changes in income or loss that would result from the conversion of such potential ordinary shares. There is no difference in net income used for basic and diluted net income per ordinary share.

The reconciliation of the number of shares used in the computation of basic and diluted net income per ordinary share is as follows:
 
   
Three Months Ended
   
Six Months Ended
 
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
                         
Weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding for basic net income per ordinary share
    58,576,384       58,213,388       58,557,089       58,009,324  
Effect of dilutive share options outstanding
    1,098,555       2,099,738       1,159,155       2,158,654  
Weighted average number of ordinary shares for diluted net income per ordinary share
    59,674,939       60,313,126       59,716,244       60,167,978  
 
 
11

 
 
6. Stock Options

On July 21, 2008, the Company adopted the Employee Share Option Plan 2008 (the “2008 Employee Plan”) pursuant to which the Compensation Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors may grant options to any employee, or any director holding a salaried office or employment with the Company or a Subsidiary for the purchase of ordinary shares. On the same date, the Company also adopted the Consultants Share Option Plan 2008 (the “2008 Consultants Plan”), pursuant to which the Compensation Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors may grant options to any consultant, adviser or non-executive director retained by the Company or any Subsidiary for the purchase of ordinary shares.
 
Each option granted under the 2008 Employees Plan or the 2008 Consultants Plan (together the “2008 Option plans”) will be an employee stock option, or NSO, as described in Section 422 or 423 of the Code. Each grant of an option under the 2008 Option Plans will be evidenced by a Stock Option Agreement between the optionee and the Company. The exercise price will be specified in each Stock Option Agreement, however option prices will not be less than 100% of the fair market value of an ordinary share on the date the option is granted.
 
An aggregate of 6.0 million ordinary shares have been reserved under the 2008 Employee Plan as reduced by any shares issued or to be issued pursuant to options granted under the 2008 Consultants Plan under which a limit of 400,000 shares applies.  Further, the maximum number of ordinary shares with respect to which options may be granted under the 2008 Employee Option Plan during any calendar year to any employee shall be 400,000 ordinary shares.  There is no individual limit under the 2008 Consultants Option Plan.   No options may be granted under the plans after July 21, 2018.
 
On July 21, 2008, the Company adopted the the 2008 Employees Restricted Share Unit Plan (the “2008 RSU Plan”) pursuant to which the Compensation Committee of the Company’s Board of Directors may select any employee, or any director holding a salaried office or employment with the Company or a Subsidiary to receive an award under the plan.  An aggregate of 1.0 million ordinary shares  have been reserved for issuance under the 2008 RSU Plan.  Awards under the 2008 RSU plan may be settled in cash or shares.
 
On January 17, 2003, the Company adopted the Share Option Plan 2003 (the “2003 Plan”) pursuant to which the Compensation Committee of the Board may grant options to officers and other employees of the Company or its subsidiaries for the purchase of ordinary shares.  Each grant of an option under the 2003 Plan will be evidenced by a Stock Option Agreement between the employee and the Company. The exercise price will be specified in each Stock Option Agreement.
 
An aggregate of 6.0 million ordinary shares have been reserved under the 2003 Plan; and, in no event will the number of ordinary shares that may be issued pursuant to options awarded under the 2003 Plan exceed 10% of the outstanding shares, as defined in the 2003 Plan, at the time of the grant, unless the Board expressly determines otherwise. Further, the maximum number of ordinary shares with respect to which options may be granted under the 2003 Plan during any calendar year to any employee shall be 400,000 ordinary shares.  Share option awards are granted with an exercise price equal to the market price of the Company’s shares at date of grant.  Share options typically vest over a period of five years from date of grant and expire eight years from date of grant.  The maximum contractual term of options outstanding at December 31, 2008, is eight years.  No options can be granted after January 17, 2013.
 
 
12

 
 
The following table summarizes option activity for the six months ended June 30, 2009:

   
Options
Outstanding
Number
of Shares
   
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
   
Weighted
Average
Fair Value
   
Weighted
Average
Remaining Contractual
Life
 
                         
Outstanding at December 31, 2008
    5,222,263     $ 17.98     $ 7.24        
                               
Granted
    921,133     $ 21.53     $ 8.47        
Exercised
    (80,909 )   $ 9.70     $ 4.37        
Forfeited
    (168,694 )   $ 26.46     $ 10.05        
                               
Outstanding at June 30, 2009
    5,893,793     $ 18.40     $ 7.39       5.18  
                                 
Exercisable at June 30, 2009
    2,872,231     $ 12.98     $ 5.45       3.96  

Share option awards are generally granted with an exercise price equal to the market price of the Company’s shares at date of grant.  Share options typically vest over a period of five years from date of grant and expire eight years from date of grant.  The maximum contractual term of options outstanding at June 30, 2009, is eight years.

The weighted average fair value of stock options granted during the six months ended June 30, 2009, calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, was $8.47 based on the following assumptions; dividend yield - 0%, risk free interest rate – 0.1%, expected volatility - 45% and weighted average expected life – 5.11 years.

Expected volatility is based on historical volatility of our common stock over a period equal to the expected term of the options; the expected life represents the weighted average period of time that options granted are expected to be outstanding given consideration to vesting schedules, and our historical experience of past vesting and termination patterns. The risk-free rate is based on the U.S. gilts zero-coupon yield curve in effect at time of grant for periods corresponding with the expected life of the option.

On August 7, 2008, the Company issued 6,280 restricted share units to certain employees of the Group. These shares are exercisable over periods ranging from February 26, 2009, to February 26, 2011.  The market value of the Company’s shares on the date of issue was $41.95.

Income from operations for the six months ended June 30, 2009, is stated after charging $3.3 million in respect of non-cash stock compensation expense.  Basic and diluted earnings per share for the six months ended June 30, 2009, had FASB Statement No. 123R Share Based Payment (“SFAS 123R”) not been introduced would have been $0.73 and $0.71 respectively.  Non-cash stock compensation expense for the six months ended June 30, 2009, has been allocated to direct costs and selling, general and administrative expenses as follows:

     
Three Months Ended
     
Six Months Ended
 
      June 30,       June 30,       June 30,       June 30,  
      2009       2008       2009       2008  
     
(In thousands) 
     
(In thousands)
 
                                 
Direct costs
  $ 916     $ 868     $ 1,794     $ 1,538  
Selling, general and administrative
    747       707       1,463       1,291  
                                 
    $ 1,663     $ 1,575     $ 3,257     $ 2,829  
 
 
 
13

 

 
Non vested shares outstanding as at June 30, 2009, are as follows:
 
   
Options
Outstanding
Number of Shares
   
Weighted Average Exercise Price
   
Weighted Average
Fair Value
 
                   
Non vested outstanding at December 31, 2008
    3,760,750     $ 20.69     $ 8.21  
                         
Granted
    921,133     $ 21.53     $ 8.47  
Vested
    (1,511,159 )   $ 14.85     $ 6.14  
Forfeited
    (149,162 )   $ 26.95     $ 10.19  
                         
Non vested outstanding at June 30, 2009
    3,021,562     $ 23.55     $ 9.23  


As at June 30, 2009, total unrecognized compensation cost related to unvested options, which the Company expects to recognize over a weighted average period of 2.2 years, amounted to $19.9 million.  The Company has granted options with fair values ranging from $3.26 to $13.93 per option or a weighted average fair value of $6.13 per option.  The Company issues new ordinary shares for all options exercised.   The total amount of fully vested share options which remained outstanding at June 30, 2009, was 2,872,231.  The fully vested options have an average remaining contractual term of 4.0 years, an average exercise price of $12.98 and a total intrinsic value of $18.5 million. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the three month period ended June 30, 2009, was $0.5 million (2008: $10.1 million). The total intrinsic value of options exercised during the six month period ended June 30, 2009, was $1.0 million (2008: $19.4 million).
 
 
7. Segment Information
 
The Company's areas of operation outside of Ireland principally include the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, The Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Poland, Czech Republic, Lithuania, Latvia, Russia, Ukraine, Hungary, Israel, Romania, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, Chile, Peru, India, China, Hong Kong, South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Taiwan, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. Segment information for the three and six months ended June 30, 2009, the three and six months ended June 30, 2008 and as at June 30, 2009, and December 31, 2008, is as follows:
 
a)  The distribution of net revenue by geographical area was as follows:
 
   
Three Months Ended
   
Six Months Ended
 
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
 
   
2009
   
2008
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
(in thousands)
   
(in thousands)
 
Ireland*
  $ 27,046     $ 36,955     $ 70,726     $ 72,393  
Rest of Europe
    62,616       66,322       117,809       124,028  
U.S.
    113,458       100,537       216,697       192,635  
Rest of the World
    16,881       14,486       34,600       30,588  
Total
  $ 220,001     $ 218,300     $ 439,832     $ 419,644  
 
* All sales shown for Ireland are export sales.
 
 
14

 
 
b)  The distribution of income from operations by geographical area was as follows:

   
Three Months Ended
   
Six Months Ended
 
    June 30,      June 30,      June 30,      June 30,  
     2009      2008     2009      2008  
   
(in thousands)
   
(in thousands)
 
                         
Ireland
  $ 4,765     $ 10,561     $ 23,582     $ 22,466  
Rest of Europe
    7,684       746       8,576       4,503  
U.S.
    7,307       12,923       13,658       18,427  
Rest of the World
    622       164       1,477       510  
                                 
Total
  $ 20,378     $ 24,394     $ 47,293     $ 45,906  


c) The distribution of property, plant and equipment, net, by geographical area was as follows:

    June 30,      December 31,  
   
2009
   
2008
 
    (in thousands)  
             
Ireland
  $ 101,948     $ 101,715  
Rest of Europe
    17,877       18,071  
U.S.
    44,761       43,976  
Rest of the World
    10,460       7,986  
                 
Total
  $ 175,046     $ 171,748  


d) The distribution of depreciation and amortization by geographical area was as follows:

   
Three Months Ended
   
Six Months Ended
 
    June 30,     June 30,     June 30,     June 30,  
    2009     2008     2009     2008  
   
(in thousands)
   
(in thousands)
 
             
Ireland
  $ 2,307     $ 2,080     $ 4,459     $ 4,073  
Rest of Europe
    1,200       1,665       2,614       3,014  
U.S.
    3,282       2,331       6,567       4,579  
Rest of the World
    737       565       1,376       1,073  
                                 
Total
  $ 7,526     $ 6,641     $ 15,016     $ 12,739  


e) The distribution of total assets by geographical area was as follows:

    June 30,     December 31,  
   
2009
   
2008
 
   
(in thousands)
 
       
Ireland
  $ 303,327     $ 234,159  
Rest of Europe
    178,396       165,624  
U.S.
    389,570       442,351  
Rest of the World
    26,185       25,151  
                 
Total
  $ 897,478     $ 867,285  
 
 
15

 
 
ICON plc
 
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
 
The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and accompanying notes included elsewhere herein and the Consolidated Financial Statements and related notes thereto included in our  Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2008. The Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.
 
Overview
 
We are a contract research organization (“CRO”), providing outsourced development services on a global basis to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device industries. We specialize in the strategic development, management and analysis of programs that support Clinical Development - from compound selection to Phase I-IV clinical studies. We have the operational flexibility to provide development services on a stand-alone basis or as part of an integrated “full service” solution. Our primary approach is to use dedicated teams to achieve optimum results, but we can implement a range of resourcing models to suit client requirements.
 
In a highly fragmented industry, we are one of a small number of companies with the capability and expertise to conduct clinical trials in all major therapeutic areas on a global basis. Currently, we have approximately 7,000 employees, in 71 locations in 38 countries, providing Phase I - IV Clinical Trial Management, Drug Development Support Services, Data Management and Biostatistics, Central Laboratory and Imaging Services.
 
Revenue consists primarily of fees earned under contracts with third-party clients. In most cases, a portion of the contract fee is paid at the time the study or trial is started, with the balance of the contract fee generally payable in installments over the study or trial duration, based on the achievement of certain performance targets or "milestones". Revenue for contracts is recognized on the basis of the relationship between time incurred and the total estimated duration of the trial or on a fee-for-service basis according to the particular circumstances of the contract. As is customary in the CRO industry, we subcontract with third party investigators in connection with clinical trials. All subcontractor costs and certain other costs where reimbursed by clients, are, in accordance with industry practice, deducted from gross revenue to arrive at net revenue. As these costs vary from contract to contract, we view net revenue as our primary measure of revenue growth.
 
Direct costs consist primarily of compensation, associated fringe benefits and share based compensation expense for project-related employees and other direct project driven costs. Selling, general and administrative expenses consist of compensation, related fringe benefits and share based compensation expense for selling and administrative employees, professional services, advertising costs and all costs related to facilities and information systems.
 
As the nature of ICON's business involves the management of projects having a typical duration of one to three years, the commencement or completion of projects in a fiscal year can have a material impact on revenues earned with the relevant clients in such years. In addition, as we typically work with some, but not all, divisions of a client, fluctuations in the number and status of available projects within such divisions can also have a material impact on revenues earned from such clients from year to year.
 
Although we are domiciled in Ireland, we report our results in U.S. dollars. As a consequence the results of our non-U.S. based operations, when translated into U.S. dollars, could be materially affected by fluctuations in exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and the currencies of those operations.
 
In addition to translation exposures, we are also subject to transaction exposures because the currency in which contracts are priced can be different from the currencies in which costs relating to those contracts are incurred.  We have 20 operations operating in U.S. dollars, 11 trading in Euros, 5 in pounds Sterling, 3 in Indian Rupee, 2 each in Russian Rouble, Swedish Krona, Polish Zloty and Japanese Yen,  and 1 each in Danish Krone, Czech Koruna, Lithuanian Litas, Latvian Lats, Ukraine Hryvnia, Hungarian Forint, Israeli New Shekels, Romanian New Leu, Canadian dollar, Mexican Peso, Brazilian Real, Colombian Peso, Argentine Peso, Chilean Peso, Peruvian Neuvo Sol, Chinese Yuan Renminbi, Hong Kong dollar, South Korean Won, Taiwan dollar, Thai Baht, Singapore dollar, Australian dollar, New Zealand dollar and South African Rand. Our operations in the United States are not materially exposed to such currency differences as the majority of our revenues and costs are in U.S. dollars. However, outside the United States the multinational nature of our activities means that contracts are usually priced in a single currency, most often U.S. dollars, Euros or pounds Sterling, while costs arise in a number of currencies, depending, among other things, on which of our offices provide staff for the contract, and the location of investigator sites. Although many such contracts benefit from some degree of natural hedging due to the matching of contract revenues and costs in the same currency, where costs are incurred in currencies other than those in which contracts are priced, fluctuations in the relative value of those currencies could have a material effect on the Company's results of operations. We regularly review our currency exposures and, when appropriate, hedge a portion of these, using forward exchange contracts, where they are not covered by natural hedges.  In addition, we usually negotiate currency fluctuation clauses in our contracts which allow for price negotiation if certain exchange rate triggers occur.
 
 
16

 
 
As we conduct operations on a global basis, our effective tax rate has depended and will depend on the geographic distribution of our revenue and earnings among locations with varying tax rates. The Company's results of operations therefore may be affected by changes in the tax rates of the various jurisdictions. In particular, as the geographic mix of our results of operations among various tax jurisdictions changes, our effective tax rate may vary significantly from period to period.

Results of Operations
 
Three Months Ended June 30, 2009 compared with Three Months Ended June 30, 2008

The following table sets forth for the periods indicated certain financial data as a percentage of net revenue and the percentage change in these items compared to the prior comparable period. The trends illustrated in the following table may not be indicative of future results.
 
   
Three Months Ended
       
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
   
2008 to 2009
 
    2009     2008    
Percentage
 
   
Percentage of Net Revenue
   
Increase/(decrease)
 
                   
Net revenue
    100 %     100 %     0.8 %
Costs and expenses:
                       
Direct costs
    56.9 %     56.3 %     1.8 %
Selling, general and administrative
    26.4 %     29.4 %     (9.8 %)
Depreciation and amortization
    3.4 %     3.0 %     13.3 %
One-time net charges
    4.1 %     -       100 %
Income from operations
    9.3 %     11.2 %     (16.5 %)
                         

Net revenue increased by $1.7 million, or 0.8%, from $218.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008, to $220.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2009. The rate of increase in net revenue growth has slowed in recent quarters due to the economic downturn and its impact on market confidence and the availability of funding for drug development.  For the three months ended June 30, 2009, we derived approximately 51.6%, 40.8% and 7.6% of our net revenue in the United States, Europe and Rest of World, respectively.
 
Direct costs increased by $2.2 million, or 1.8%, from $123.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008, to $125.1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2009. This increase was primarily due to increased salary and related costs of $1.5 million for project related employees, increased laboratory expenses of $2.0 million and increased study supplies and materials expenses of $1.6 million. These increases were offset by a reduction in travel costs for project related employees and other direct project related expenses of $2.1 million and $0.8 million respectively.  Direct costs as a percentage of net revenue increased from 56.3% for the three months ended June 30, 2008, to 56.9% for three months ended June 30, 2009.
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased by $6.3 million, or 9.8%, from $64.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008, to $58.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2009. The decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses arises primarily from a decrease of $3.8 million in personnel related costs, comprising salary and travel cost for selling, general and administrative employees and recruitment expenditure. In addition, increased foreign exchange gains on the revaluation of monetary assets and liabilities of $1.7 million were recorded during the period, together with decreases in advertising expenditure and support and maintenance costs of $0.5 million and $0.3 million respectively.  As a percentage of net revenue, selling, general and administrative expenses, decreased from 29.4% in the three months ended June 30, 2008, to 26.4% in the three months ended June 30, 2009.
 
 
17

 
 
Total share based compensation expense recognized during the three months ended June 30, 2009 amounted to $1.7 million compared to $1.6 million during the three months ended June 30, 2008.
 
Depreciation and amortization expense increased by $0.9 million, or 13.3%, from $6.6 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008, to $7.5 million for the three months ended June 30, 2009. As a percentage of net revenue, depreciation and amortization increased from 3.0% of net revenues for the three months ended June 30, 2008, to 3.4% for the three months ended June 30, 2009. The increase arises primarily from our continued investment in facilities and equipment to support the Company’s growth.
 
One-time net charges of $8.9 million have been recognised during the three months ended June 30, 2009.  In response to the globalization of clinical studies and its attendant impact on resources in existing and emerging markets, the Company conducted a review of its existing infrastructure to better align its resources with the needs of its clients.  This realignment has resulted in resource rationalisations in certain more mature markets and the recognition of a restructuring charge of $13.4 million in the second quarter of 2009.  This was offset by research and development incentives of $4.5 million received by the Company in certain jurisdictions in which it operates.
 
As a result of the recognition of these one-time net charges income from operations decreased by $4.0 million, or 16.5%, from $24.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008, to $20.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2009. As a percentage of net revenue, income from operations decreased from 11.2% for the three months ended June 30, 2008, to 9.3% of net revenues for the three months ended June 30, 2009.  Excluding the impact of one-time net charges recognized during the period, income from operations as a percentage of net revenue increased from 11.2% for the three months ended June 30, 2008, to 13.3% for the three months ended June 30, 2009.
 
Net interest expense for the three months ended June 30, 2009, was $0.9 million, an increase of $0.4 million on net interest expense of $0.5 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008. Interest expense for the period decreased by $0.1 million from $1.1 million for the three months ended 30 June 2008 to $1.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2009.  Interest income for the period decreased from $0.6 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008, to $0.1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2009.
 
Provision for income taxes has decreased from $4.9 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008, to $1.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2009.  The Company’s effective tax rate for the three months ended June 30, 2009, was 5.0% compared with 20.4% for the three months ended June 30, 2008. The decrease in the effective tax rate during the period arose principally from corporation tax refunds arising from research and development tax credits received in certain jurisdictions and the tax effect of restructuring costs recognized.
 
 
18

 
 
Six Months Ended June 30, 2009 compared with Six Months Ended June 30, 2008

The following table sets forth for the periods indicated certain financial data as a percentage of net revenue and the percentage change in these items compared to the prior comparable period. The trends illustrated in the following table may not be indicative of future results.
 
   
Six Months Ended
       
   
June 30,
   
June 30,
   
2008 to 2009
 
    2009     2008    
Percentage
 
   
Percentage of Net Revenue
   
Increase/(decrease)
 
                   
Net revenue
    100 %     100 %     4.8 %
Costs and expenses:
                       
Direct costs
    56.7 %     56.3 %     5.6 %
Selling, general and administrative
    27.1 %     29.7 %     (4.5 %)
Depreciation and amortization
    3.4 %     3.0 %     17.9 %
One-time net charges
    2.0 %     -       100 %
Income from operations
    10.8 %     10.9 %     3.0 %
                         
 
 
Net revenue increased by $20.2 million, or 4.8%, from $419.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008, to $439.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009. The rate of increase in net revenue growth has slowed in recent quarters due to the economic downturn and its impact on market confidence and the availability of funding for drug development.  For the six months ended June 30, 2009, we derived approximately 49.3%, 42.9% and 7.8% of our net revenue in the United States, Europe and Rest of World, respectively.
 
Direct costs increased by $13.1 million, or 5.6%, from $236.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008, to $249.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009.  This increase was primarily due to increased salary and related costs of $10.8 million for project related employees, increased laboratory expenses of $2.5 million and increased study supplies and materials expenses of $2.0 million. These increases were offset by a reduction in travel costs for project related employees of $2.5 million.  Direct costs as a percentage of net revenue increased from 56.3% for the six months ended June 30, 2008, to 56.7% for six months ended June 30, 2009.
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased by $5.6 million, or 4.5%, from $124.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008, to $119.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009. The decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses arises principally from decreases of $5.7 million in personnel related costs, comprising salary and travel cost for selling, general and administrative employees and recruitment expenditure. As a percentage of net revenue, selling, general and administrative expenses, decreased from 29.7% in the six months ended June 30, 2008, to 27.1% in the six months ended June 30, 2009.
 
Total share based compensation expense recognized during the six months ended June 30, 2009 amounted to $3.3 million compared to $2.8 million during the six months ended June 30, 2008.
 
Depreciation and amortization expense increased by $2.3 million, or 17.9%, from $12.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008, to $15.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009. As a percentage of net revenue, depreciation and amortization increased from 3.0% of net revenues for the six months ended June 30, 2008, to 3.4% for the six months ended June 30, 2009. The increase arises primarily from our continued investment in facilities and equipment to support the Company’s growth.
 
One-time net charges of $8.9 million have been recognised during the six months ended June 30, 2009.  In response to the globalization of clinical studies and its attendant impact on resources in existing and emerging markets, the Company conducted a review of its existing infrastructure to better align its resources with the needs of its clients.  This realignment has resulted in resource rationalisations in certain more mature markets and the recognition of a restructuring charge of $13.4 million in the second quarter of 2009.  This was offset by research and development incentives of $4.5 million received by the Company in certain jurisdictions in which it operates.
 
 
19

 
 
Including the impact of the recognition of these one-time net charges, income from operations increased by $1.4 million, or 3.0%, from $45.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008, to $47.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009. As a percentage of net revenue, income from operations decreased from 10.9% for the six months ended June 30, 2008, to 10.8% of net revenues for the six months ended June 30, 2009. Excluding the impact of one-time net charges recognized during the period, income from operations as a percentage of net revenue increased from 10.9% for the six months ended June 30, 2008, to 12.8% for the six months ended June 30, 2009. 
 
Net interest expense for the six months ended June 30, 2009, was $1.6 million, an increase of $1.1 million on net interest expense of $0.5 million from the six months ended June 30, 2008. Interest expense for the period increased by $0.1 million from $2.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008, to $2.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009.  Interest income for the period decreased from $1.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008, to $0.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009.
 
Provision for income taxes has decreased from $9.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008, to $6.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009.  The Company’s effective tax rate for the six months ended June 30, 2009, was 13.6% compared with 20.1% for the six months ended June 30, 2008.  The decrease in the effective tax rate during the period arose principally from corporation tax refunds arising from research and development tax credits received in certain jurisdictions and the tax effect of restructuring costs recognized.
 
 
Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
The CRO industry generally is not capital intensive. Since our inception, we have financed our operations and growth primarily with cash flows from operations, net proceeds of $49.1 million raised in our initial public offering in May 1998, net proceeds of $44.3 million raised in our public offering in August 2003 and net borrowings of $64.1 million. Our principal operating cash needs are payment of salaries, office rents, travel expenditures and payments to investigators. The aggregate amount of employee compensation, excluding stock compensation expense, paid by us and our subsidiaries for the six months ended June 30, 2009 and June 30, 2008, amounted to $271.2 million and $259.9 million respectively. Investing activities primarily reflect capital expenditures for facilities, information systems enhancements, the purchase of short-term investments and acquisitions.
 
Our clinical research and development contracts are generally fixed price with some variable components and range in duration from a few months to several years. Revenue from contracts is generally recognized as income on the basis of the relationship between time incurred and the total estimated contract duration or on a fee-for-service basis. The cash flow from contracts typically consists of a down payment of between 10% and 20% paid at the time the contract is entered into, with the balance paid in instalments over the contract's duration and in some cases upon the achievement of certain milestones. Accordingly, cash receipts do not necessarily correspond to costs incurred and revenue recognized on contracts.
 
As of June 30, 2009, our working capital amounted to $197.5 million, compared to $186.0 million at December 31, 2008. The most significant influence on our operating cash flow is revenue outstanding, which comprises accounts receivable and unbilled revenue, less payments on account. The dollar values of these amounts and the related days revenue outstanding can vary due to the achievement of contractual milestones and the timing of cash receipts. The number of days revenue outstanding was 49 days at June 30, 2009 and 70 days at December 31, 2008.
 
Net cash provided by operating activities was $128.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009, compared with cash provided by operating activities of $28.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008. The increase in cash provided from operating activities arises primarily from a reduction in the number of days revenue outstanding.
 
Net cash used in investing activities was $91.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009, compared to $48.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008. Net cash used in the six months ended June 30, 2009 arises principally from capital expenditure, payments for purchase of subsidiary undertakings, and purchase of short term investments, offset by the sale of short term investments. Capital expenditure for the six months ended June 30, 2009, amounted to $16.4 million, and comprised mainly of expenditure on global infrastructure and information technology systems to support the Company’s growth.  Cash paid on acquisitions during the six months ended June 30, 2009, amounted to $24.1 million, being cash paid for the acquisition of the remaining 30% of the common stock of Beacon of $17.8 million, $5.9 million relating to the acquisition of Prevalere Lifesciences and $0.4 million relating to the acquisition of the assets of the former Qualia Clinical Service.  $16.5 million was realized during the period from the sale of short term investments.  An additional $67.6 million of surplus cash balances were invested in short term investments during the period.
 
 
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Net cash used in financing activities during the six months ended June 30, 2009, amounted to $42.7 million compared with cash provided by financing activities of $14.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008. During the six months ended June 30, 2009, the Company repaid borrowings of $60.7 million.  This was offset by $17.4 million in additional borrowings drawn down during the period.
 
As a result of these cash flows, cash and cash equivalents decreased by $5.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009, compared to a decrease of $5.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008.
 
Net cash at June 30, 2009, amounted to $83.2 million, comprising cash and cash equivalents of $53.4 million, short term investments of $93.9 million, less bank credit lines and loan facilities of $64.1 million.  Net debt at December 31, 2008, amounted to $4.3 million, comprising cash and cash equivalents of $58.4 million, short term investments of $42.7 million, less bank credit lines and facilities of $105.4 million.
 
On July 9, 2007, ICON plc entered into a five year committed multi-currency facility agreement for €35 million ($49.2 million) with The Governor and Company of the Bank of Ireland.  The facility bears interest at an annual rate equal to the EURIBOR plus a margin and is secured by certain composite guarantees, indemnities and pledges in favor of the bank.  At June 30, 2009, this facility was fully drawn with €30.6 million ($43.0 million) outstanding under the repayment terms of the facility.
 
On January 2, 2009, an additional four year committed credit facility was negotiated with The Governor and Company of the Bank of Ireland for $25 million. The facility bears interest at LIBOR plus a margin and is secured by certain composite guarantees, indemnities and pledges in favour of the bank.  As at June 30, 2009, $25 million was available to be drawn under this facility.
 
On December 22, 2008, committed credit facilities were negotiated with Allied Irish Bank plc for $75 million.  The facilities comprise a one year Euro facility of approximately €20 million ($28.1 million), with the balance comprising a three year US dollar facility.  The Euro facility bears interest at EURIBOR plus a margin and the US dollar facility bears interest at LIBOR plus a margin. Both facilities are secured by certain composite guarantees and pledges in favour of the bank.  As at June 30, 2009, $21.1 million (€15.0 million) was drawn under these facilities.
 
On May 29, 2009, committed credit facilities were negotiated with Citibank Europe for $20 million.  The facilities comprise a 364 day facility of $10 million and a three year facility of $10 million.  On the same day, a committed 364 day credit facility of $30 million was negotiated with JP Morgan.  These facilities bear interest at LIBOR plus a margin and are secured by certain composite guarantees and pledges in favour of the bank.  As at June 30, 2009, no amounts were drawn under these facilities.
 
The weighted average margin payable on the above mentioned facilities is 2.18 per cent.
 
On April 28, 2009, the Company acquired the assets of the former Qualia Clinical Services, Inc., a 33,000 square foot Phase 1 facility, located in Omaha, Nebraska, for $0.3 million.
 
On February 11, 2008, the Company acquired 100% of the common stock of Healthcare Discoveries Inc., for an initial cash consideration of $10.9 million, excluding costs of acquisition.  Healthcare Discoveries, located in San Antonio, Texas, is engaged in the provision of Phase I clinical trial management services.  Certain performance milestones were built into the acquisition agreement requiring payment of additional consideration of up to $10.0 million if these milestones were achieved during the year ended December 31, 2008.  No further payments have been made in respect of this acquisition as the performance milestones were not achieved.
 
On November 14, 2008, the Company acquired 100% of the common stock of Prevalere Life Sciences Inc. (“Prevalere”), for an initial cash consideration of $37.7 million, excluding costs of acquisition.  Prevalere, located in Whitesboro, New York, is a leading provider of bioanalytical and immunoassay services to pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies.  Certain performance milestones were built into the acquisition agreement requiring potential additional consideration of up to $8.2 million if these milestones are achieved during the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2009.  On April 30, 2009, a further $5.0 million was paid in respect of the milestones for the year ended December 31, 2008.  No amounts have been accrued in respect of the milestones for the year ended December 31, 2009.
 
 
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On July 1, 2004, the Company acquired 70% of the common stock of Beacon Biosciences Inc. (“Beacon”), a leading specialist CRO, which provides a range of medical imaging services to the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device industries, for an initial cash consideration of $9.9 million, excluding costs of acquisition.  On December 31, 2008, the remaining 30% of the common stock was acquired by the Company for $17.4 million, excluding costs of acquisition.  Certain performance milestones were built into the acquisition agreement for the remaining 30% of Beacon requiring potential additional consideration of up to $3.0 million if these milestones are achieved during the year ended December 31, 2009.  No amounts have been accrued in respect of the potential additional consideration.
 
 
Inflation
 
We believe the effects of inflation generally do not have a material adverse impact on our operations or financial conditions.
 
Legal Proceedings
 
We are not party to any litigation or other legal proceedings that we believe could reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
 
 
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SIGNATURES

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.

 
 
ICON plc
 
       
Date:  July 20, 2009
By:
/s/ Ciaran Murray
 
   
Ciaran Murray
 
   
Chief Financial Officer
 
       




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