10-Q
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549-1004
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
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þ |
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QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For quarterly period ended September 30, 2007
OR
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o |
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TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15 (d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 |
For the transition period from ___________ to ___________
Commission File Number 0-17506
UST Inc.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
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Delaware
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06-1193986 |
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(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
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(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.) |
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6 High Ridge Park, Building A, Stamford, Connecticut
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06905 |
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(Address of principal executive offices)
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(Zip Code) |
Registrants telephone number, including area code: (203) 817-3000
100 West Putnam Avenue, Greenwich, Connecticut 06830
(Former name, former address and former fiscal year, if changed since last report.)
Indicate by check mark whether 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. Yes þ No o
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer,
or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of accelerated filer and large accelerated filer in
Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):
Large accelerated filer þ Accelerated filer o Non-accelerated filer o
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the
Exchange Act). Yes o No þ
Number of
Common Shares ($.50 par value) outstanding at October 31,
2007 156,650,476
UST Inc.
(Registrant or the Company)
INDEX
1
Part I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
UST Inc.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data)
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September 30, 2007 |
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December 31, 2006 |
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(Unaudited) |
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(Note) |
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Assets: |
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Current assets: |
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Cash and cash equivalents |
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$ |
125,657 |
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$ |
254,393 |
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Short-term investments |
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10,000 |
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20,000 |
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Accounts receivable |
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67,952 |
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52,501 |
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Inventories
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Leaf tobacco |
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164,500 |
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201,035 |
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Products in process |
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220,418 |
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233,741 |
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Finished goods |
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186,030 |
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145,820 |
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Other materials and supplies |
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22,702 |
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20,662 |
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Total inventories |
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593,650 |
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601,258 |
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Deferred income taxes |
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23,708 |
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11,370 |
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Income taxes receivable |
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6,866 |
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Assets held for sale |
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31,452 |
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Prepaid expenses and other current assets |
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31,201 |
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27,136 |
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Total current assets |
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859,034 |
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998,110 |
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Property, plant and equipment, net |
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486,955 |
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389,810 |
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Deferred income taxes |
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40,469 |
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26,239 |
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Goodwill |
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34,499 |
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6,547 |
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Intangible assets |
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56,907 |
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4,723 |
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Other assets |
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14,381 |
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14,919 |
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Total assets |
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$ |
1,492,245 |
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$ |
1,440,348 |
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Liabilities and Stockholders (deficit) equity: |
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Current liabilities: |
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Accounts payable and accrued expenses |
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$ |
237,157 |
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$ |
268,254 |
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Income taxes payable |
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18,896 |
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Litigation liability |
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132,524 |
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12,927 |
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Total current liabilities |
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369,681 |
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300,077 |
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Long-term debt |
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840,000 |
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840,000 |
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Postretirement benefits other than pensions |
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91,098 |
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86,413 |
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Pensions |
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154,952 |
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142,424 |
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Income taxes payable |
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37,728 |
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Other liabilities |
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12,801 |
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5,608 |
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Total liabilities |
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1,506,260 |
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1,374,522 |
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Contingencies (see Note 14) |
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Minority interest and put arrangement |
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27,592 |
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Stockholders (deficit) equity: |
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Capital stock (1) |
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105,510 |
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104,956 |
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Additional paid-in capital |
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1,085,634 |
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1,036,237 |
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Retained earnings |
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726,493 |
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635,272 |
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Accumulated other comprehensive loss |
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(55,462 |
) |
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(56,871 |
) |
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1,862,175 |
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1,719,594 |
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Less treasury stock (2) |
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1,903,782 |
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1,653,768 |
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Total stockholders (deficit) equity |
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(41,607 |
) |
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65,826 |
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Total liabilities and stockholders (deficit) equity |
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$ |
1,492,245 |
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$ |
1,440,348 |
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(1) |
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Common Stock par value $.50 per share: Authorized 600 million shares; Issued 211,020,196
shares in 2007 and
209,912,510 shares in 2006. Preferred Stock par value $.10 per share: Authorized 10 million
shares; Issued None. |
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(2) |
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54,037,765 shares and 49,319,673 shares of treasury stock at September 30, 2007 and December
31, 2006, respectively. |
Note: The Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position at December 31, 2006 has been
derived from the audited financial
statements at that date.
See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
2
UST Inc.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
(Unaudited)
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Three Months Ended |
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Nine Months Ended |
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September 30, |
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September 30, |
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2007 |
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2006 |
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2007 |
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2006 |
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Net sales |
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$ |
479,612 |
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$ |
458,649 |
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$ |
1,417,884 |
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$ |
1,365,190 |
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Costs and expenses: |
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Cost of products sold |
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112,150 |
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102,871 |
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328,064 |
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293,964 |
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Excise taxes |
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14,319 |
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12,984 |
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40,907 |
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38,515 |
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Selling, advertising and administrative |
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129,916 |
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133,186 |
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395,875 |
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399,796 |
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Restructuring charges |
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1,677 |
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17,495 |
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9,105 |
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17,495 |
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Antitrust litigation |
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3,158 |
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125,258 |
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1,350 |
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Total costs and expenses |
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261,220 |
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266,536 |
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899,209 |
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751,120 |
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Gain on sale of corporate headquarters building |
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105,143 |
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Operating income |
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218,392 |
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192,113 |
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623,818 |
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614,070 |
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Interest, net |
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9,308 |
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9,955 |
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27,438 |
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32,218 |
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Earnings from continuing operations before income taxes |
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209,084 |
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182,158 |
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596,380 |
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581,852 |
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Income tax expense |
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75,484 |
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67,963 |
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215,296 |
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217,089 |
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Earnings from continuing operations |
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133,600 |
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114,195 |
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381,084 |
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364,763 |
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Income from discontinued operations, including income tax effect |
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3,890 |
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3,890 |
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Net earnings |
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133,600 |
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|
118,085 |
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381,084 |
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368,653 |
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Net earnings per basic share: |
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Earnings from continuing operations |
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$ |
0.85 |
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$ |
0.71 |
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$ |
2.40 |
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$ |
2.27 |
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Income from discontinued operations |
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0.03 |
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0.02 |
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Net earnings per basic share |
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$ |
0.85 |
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$ |
0.74 |
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$ |
2.40 |
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$ |
2.29 |
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Net earnings per diluted share: |
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Earnings from continuing operations |
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$ |
0.84 |
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$ |
0.71 |
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$ |
2.37 |
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$ |
2.25 |
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Income from discontinued operations |
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0.02 |
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0.02 |
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Net earnings per diluted share |
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$ |
0.84 |
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$ |
0.73 |
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$ |
2.37 |
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$ |
2.27 |
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Dividends per share |
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$ |
0.60 |
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$ |
0.57 |
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$ |
1.80 |
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$ |
1.71 |
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Average number of shares: |
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Basic |
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157,666 |
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|
160,440 |
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159,056 |
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160,940 |
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Diluted |
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158,951 |
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|
162,187 |
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160,536 |
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|
162,355 |
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See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
3
UST Inc.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
(Unaudited)
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Nine Months Ended September 30, |
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2007 |
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2006 |
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Operating Activities: |
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Net earnings |
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$ |
381,084 |
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$ |
368,653 |
|
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash
provided by operating activities: |
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Depreciation and amortization |
|
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33,362 |
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|
33,722 |
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Share-based compensation expense |
|
|
9,575 |
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|
7,610 |
|
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation |
|
|
(7,520 |
) |
|
|
(6,559 |
) |
Gain on sale of corporate headquarters building |
|
|
(105,143 |
) |
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|
Gain on disposition of property, plant and equipment |
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|
(474 |
) |
|
|
(1,915 |
) |
Amortization of imputed rent on corporate headquarters building |
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|
6,740 |
|
|
|
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|
Deferred income taxes |
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(12,024 |
) |
|
|
(9,513 |
) |
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: |
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Accounts receivable |
|
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(9,856 |
) |
|
|
4,364 |
|
Inventories |
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|
41,914 |
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|
45,594 |
|
Prepaid expenses and other assets |
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(2,122 |
) |
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|
12,618 |
|
Accounts payable, accrued expenses, pensions and other liabilities |
|
|
(15,650 |
) |
|
|
(26,407 |
) |
Income taxes |
|
|
3,802 |
|
|
|
3,628 |
|
Litigation liability |
|
|
119,597 |
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|
(918 |
) |
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|
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Net cash provided by operating activities |
|
|
443,285 |
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|
430,877 |
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Investing Activities: |
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Short-term investments, net |
|
|
10,000 |
|
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|
(10,000 |
) |
Purchases of property, plant and equipment |
|
|
(51,504 |
) |
|
|
(25,177 |
) |
Proceeds from dispositions of property, plant and equipment |
|
|
130,701 |
|
|
|
6,157 |
|
Acquisition of business |
|
|
(155,202 |
) |
|
|
(10,578 |
) |
Loan to minority interest holder |
|
|
(27,096 |
) |
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|
|
|
Repayment of loan by minority interest holder |
|
|
27,096 |
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|
|
|
|
Investment in joint venture |
|
|
(322 |
) |
|
|
(2,921 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash used in investing activities |
|
|
(66,327 |
) |
|
|
(42,519 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Financing Activities: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Repayment of debt |
|
|
(7,095 |
) |
|
|
|
|
Proceeds from the issuance of stock |
|
|
30,517 |
|
|
|
53,792 |
|
Excess tax benefits from share-based compensation |
|
|
7,520 |
|
|
|
6,559 |
|
Dividends paid |
|
|
(286,622 |
) |
|
|
(275,871 |
) |
Stock repurchased |
|
|
(250,014 |
) |
|
|
(150,034 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net cash used in financing activities |
|
|
(505,694 |
) |
|
|
(365,554 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(Decrease)/Increase in cash and cash equivalents |
|
|
(128,736 |
) |
|
|
22,804 |
|
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year |
|
|
254,393 |
|
|
|
202,025 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period |
|
$ |
125,657 |
|
|
$ |
224,829 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
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|
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: |
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|
Cash paid during the period for: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income taxes |
|
$ |
224,126 |
|
|
$ |
221,389 |
|
Interest |
|
|
48,717 |
|
|
|
48,450 |
|
See Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
4
UST Inc.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 30, 2007
(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share amounts or where otherwise noted)
1 BASIS OF PRESENTATION
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in
accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States for interim
financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X
issued by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Accordingly, they do not include all of
the information and footnotes required by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP)
for complete financial statements. Management believes that all adjustments (consisting of normal
recurring accruals) considered necessary for a fair presentation have been included. The
condensed consolidated financial statements include the accounts of UST Inc. (the Company) and
all of its subsidiaries after the elimination of intercompany accounts and transactions. The
Company provides for minority interests in consolidated companies in which the Companys ownership
is less than 100 percent. Certain prior year amounts on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of
Financial Position have been reclassified to conform to the 2007 presentation. Operating results
for the nine month period ended September 30, 2007 are not necessarily indicative of the results
that may be expected for the year ended December 31, 2007. For further information, refer to the
consolidated financial statements and footnotes thereto included in the Companys Annual Report on
Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006 (2006 Form 10-K).
2 RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
In June 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Interpretation No. 48,
Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109,
Accounting for Income Taxes (FIN 48), to create a single model to address accounting for
uncertainty in tax positions. The Company adopted the provisions of FIN 48 on January 1, 2007, as
required. See Note 6, Income Taxes for more details.
In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 157,
Fair Value Measurements (SFAS No. 157). SFAS No. 157 provides a common definition of fair value
to be applied to existing GAAP requiring the use of fair value measures, establishes a framework
for measuring fair value and enhances disclosure about fair value measures under other accounting
pronouncements, but does not change existing guidance as to whether an asset or liability is
carried at fair value. SFAS No. 157 is to be applied on a prospective basis, with limited
exceptions for specified financial instruments. SFAS No. 157 is effective for fiscal years
beginning after November 15, 2007, and, as such, the Company plans to adopt the provisions of SFAS
No. 157 on January 1, 2008. The Company is in the process of evaluating the impact that the
adoption of this pronouncement will have on its results of operations and financial condition.
5
UST Inc.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
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). SFAS No.
159 permits entities to irrevocably choose to measure many financial instruments and certain other
items at fair value. SFAS No. 159 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007.
For any eligible items that exist at the effective date for which an entity chooses to elect the
fair value option, the effect of the first remeasurement to fair value shall be reported as a
cumulative-effect adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings. The Company is in the
process of evaluating the impact that this pronouncement may have on its results of operations and
financial condition.
3 CAPITAL STOCK
The Company repurchased approximately 2.6 million shares of outstanding common stock at a cost of
approximately $130 million during the quarter ended September 30, 2007. During the first nine
months of 2007, the Company repurchased approximately 4.7 million shares of outstanding common
stock at a cost of approximately $250 million. The repurchases were made pursuant to the
Companys authorized program, approved in December 2004, to repurchase up to 20 million shares of
its outstanding common stock. As of September 30, 2007, approximately 11.8 million shares have
been repurchased at a cost of approximately $567 million under the program.
4 SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
The Company accounts for share-based compensation in accordance with the provisions of SFAS No.
123(R), Share-Based Payment, (SFAS No. 123(R)). SFAS No. 123(R) requires all share-based
payments issued to acquire goods or services, including grants of employee stock options, to be
recognized in the statement of operations based on their fair values, net of estimated forfeitures.
SFAS No. 123(R) requires forfeitures to be estimated at the time of grant and revised, if
necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates. Compensation
expense related to share-based awards is recognized over the requisite service period, which is
generally the vesting period.
The following table provides a breakdown by line item of the pre-tax share-based compensation
expense recognized in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations for the three and nine
months ended September 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively, as well as the related income tax benefit
and amounts capitalized as a component of inventory for each period.
6
UST Inc.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended |
|
|
Nine Months Ended |
|
|
|
September 30, |
|
|
September 30, |
|
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2006 |
|
Selling, advertising and administrative expense (1) |
|
$ |
2,380 |
|
|
$ |
2,457 |
|
|
$ |
9,082 |
|
|
$ |
6,820 |
|
Cost of products sold |
|
|
138 |
|
|
|
154 |
|
|
|
426 |
|
|
|
342 |
|
Restructuring charges (2) |
|
|
56 |
|
|
|
448 |
|
|
|
67 |
|
|
|
448 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total pre-tax share-based compensation expense |
|
$ |
2,574 |
|
|
$ |
3,059 |
|
|
$ |
9,575 |
|
|
$ |
7,610 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Income tax benefit |
|
$ |
1,025 |
|
|
$ |
1,110 |
|
|
$ |
3,788 |
|
|
$ |
2,759 |
|
Capitalized as inventory |
|
|
30 |
|
|
|
36 |
|
|
|
92 |
|
|
|
84 |
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
The nine month period ended September 30, 2007 includes accelerated vesting charges
recorded in connection with an executive officers separation from service. |
|
(2) |
|
Represents share-based compensation expense recognized in connection with one-time
termination benefits provided to employees affected by Project Momentum, the Companys
previously announced cost-reduction initiative. See Note 13 Restructuring for additional
information regarding Project Momentum. |
A summary of the status of restricted stock and restricted stock units for the nine months ended
September 30, 2007 is presented below:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Restricted Stock |
|
Restricted Stock Units |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weighted average |
|
|
|
|
|
Weighted average |
|
|
Number of |
|
grant-date fair |
|
Number of |
|
grant-date fair |
|
|
Shares |
|
value per share |
|
Shares |
|
value per share |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nonvested at January 1, 2007 |
|
|
460,438 |
|
|
$ |
41.17 |
|
|
|
230,475 |
|
|
$ |
41.23 |
|
Granted |
|
|
126,300 |
|
|
$ |
59.83 |
|
|
|
36,749 |
|
|
$ |
56.33 |
|
Forfeited |
|
|
(25,399 |
) |
|
$ |
55.12 |
|
|
|
(10,830 |
) |
|
$ |
42.82 |
|
Vested |
|
|
(148,949 |
) |
|
$ |
44.71 |
|
|
|
(30,234 |
) |
|
$ |
39.37 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nonvested at September 30, 2007 |
|
|
412,390 |
|
|
$ |
46.23 |
|
|
|
226,160 |
|
|
$ |
43.86 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In addition to the table above, in May 2007 and August 2007, the Company awarded 106,900 restricted
shares and 9,425 restricted shares, respectively, for which the performance targets had not been
established as of September 30, 2007. In accordance with SFAS No. 123(R), a grant date, for
purposes of measuring compensation expense, cannot occur until the performance measures are
established, as that is when both the Company and the award recipients would have a mutual
understanding of the key terms and conditions of the award. During the third quarter of 2007,
4,000 of such performance-based restricted shares were forfeited, leaving a total of 112,325
performance-based restricted shares for which performance targets had not been established at
September 30, 2007.
During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2007, 0.2 million and 1 million options were
exercised with a weighted-average exercise price of $30.64 and $31.32, respectively. At September
30, 2007, there were 4 million options outstanding, of which 3.7 million options were exercisable,
with weighted-average exercise prices of $34.03 and $32.60, respectively.
7
UST Inc.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
5 EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
In accordance with SFAS No. 132, Employers Disclosures About Pensions and Other Postretirement
Benefits (Revised 2003), as amended by SFAS No. 158, Employers Accounting For Defined Benefit
Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106, and
132(R), the following provides the components of net periodic benefit cost for the three and nine
months ended September 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Postretirement Benefits |
|
|
|
Pension Plans |
|
|
Other than Pensions |
|
|
|
Three Months Ended |
|
|
Three Months Ended |
|
|
|
September 30, |
|
|
September 30, |
|
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2006 |
|
Service cost |
|
$ |
4,766 |
|
|
$ |
4,192 |
|
|
$ |
1,154 |
|
|
$ |
1,034 |
|
Interest cost |
|
|
8,338 |
|
|
|
7,831 |
|
|
|
1,215 |
|
|
|
1,102 |
|
Expected return on plan assets |
|
|
(7,239 |
) |
|
|
(6,662 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amortization of unrecognized transition asset |
|
|
(2 |
) |
|
|
(2 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amortization of prior service cost (credit) |
|
|
18 |
|
|
|
5 |
|
|
|
(1,229 |
) |
|
|
(1,048 |
) |
Recognized actuarial loss |
|
|
979 |
|
|
|
1,284 |
|
|
|
87 |
|
|
|
224 |
|
Curtailment and special termination benefits |
|
|
|
|
|
|
4,042 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,789 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net periodic benefit cost |
|
$ |
6,860 |
|
|
$ |
10,690 |
|
|
$ |
1,227 |
|
|
$ |
4,101 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Postretirement Benefits Other |
|
|
|
Pension Plans |
|
|
than Pensions |
|
|
|
Nine Months Ended |
|
|
Nine Months Ended |
|
|
|
September 30, |
|
|
September 30, |
|
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2006 |
|
Service cost |
|
$ |
14,223 |
|
|
$ |
14,232 |
|
|
$ |
3,463 |
|
|
$ |
4,038 |
|
Interest cost |
|
|
24,881 |
|
|
|
22,870 |
|
|
|
3,646 |
|
|
|
3,692 |
|
Expected return on plan assets |
|
|
(21,603 |
) |
|
|
(19,641 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amortization of unrecognized transition asset |
|
|
(6 |
) |
|
|
(6 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Amortization of prior service cost (credit) |
|
|
56 |
|
|
|
14 |
|
|
|
(3,690 |
) |
|
|
(4,067 |
) |
Recognized actuarial loss |
|
|
2,922 |
|
|
|
4,800 |
|
|
|
263 |
|
|
|
1,058 |
|
Special termination benefits |
|
|
1,974 |
|
|
|
4,042 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2,789 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net periodic benefit cost |
|
$ |
22,447 |
|
|
$ |
26,311 |
|
|
$ |
3,682 |
|
|
$ |
7,510 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
During the first quarter of 2007, the Company recorded a charge for special termination benefits
related to its defined benefit pension plans in connection with an executive officers separation
from service. In connection with restructuring activities, during the third quarter of 2006, the
Company recorded special termination benefit charges of approximately $4 million related to its
defined benefit pension plans and $2.8 million of net curtailment and special termination benefit
charges related to its other postretirement benefit plans.
The Company expects to contribute $7.4 million to its non-qualified defined benefit pension plans
in 2007 which is slightly higher than the $7.2 million previously disclosed in the Companys 2006
Form 10-K.
8
UST Inc.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
6 INCOME TAXES
The Companys income tax provision takes into consideration pre-tax income, statutory tax rates
and the Companys tax profile in the various jurisdictions in which it operates. The tax bases of
the Companys assets and liabilities reflect its best estimate of the future tax benefit and costs
it expects to realize when such amounts are included in its tax returns. Quantitative and
probability analysis, which incorporates managements judgment, is required in determining the
Companys effective tax rate and in evaluating its tax positions. The Company recognizes tax
benefits in accordance with the provisions of FIN 48, which it adopted as of January 1, 2007.
Prior to the Companys adoption of FIN 48, accruals for uncertain income tax positions were
established in accordance with SFAS No. 5, Accounting for Contingencies.
Upon the adoption of FIN 48, the Company recognized a $16.4 million increase in the liability for
unrecognized tax benefits of which $0.1 million was accounted for as a reduction to the opening
balance of retained earnings and $16.3 million was accounted for as an adjustment to deferred taxes
for amounts related to tax positions for which the ultimate deductibility is highly certain but for
which there is uncertainty about the timing of such deductibility. As of January 1, 2007 and
September 30, 2007, the total liability for unrecognized tax benefits was $38.2 million and $39.4
million, respectively. The $39.4 million liability for unrecognized tax benefits as of September
30, 2007 represents the gross tax liability for all jurisdictions. Approximately $0.6 million of
this liability, net of federal tax benefit, is included on the income taxes receivable line of
the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position, while the remaining $38.8 million of
this liability, net of federal tax benefit, is reported on the income taxes payable line in the
non-current liabilities section of the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position.
The Company recognizes accruals of interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in
income tax expense. During the three months ended September 30, 2007 and 2006, the Company
recognized approximately $0.8 million and $0.5 million, respectively, in interest and penalties.
For the nine months ended September 30, 2007 and 2006, the Company recognized approximately $2.5
million and $1.4 million, respectively, in interest and penalties. As of January 1, 2007 and
September 30, 2007, the Company had a liability of approximately $8.2 million and $10.3 million,
respectively, for the payment of interest and penalties. Approximately $0.3 million of this
liability is included on the income taxes receivable line of the Condensed Consolidated Statement
of Financial Position, while the remaining $10 million of this liability is included on the income
taxes payable line in the non-current liabilities section of the Condensed Consolidated Statement
of Financial Position.
The Company continually and regularly evaluates, assesses and adjusts its accruals for income taxes
in light of changing facts and circumstances, which could cause the effective tax rate to fluctuate
from period to period. Of the total $39.4 million of unrecognized tax benefits as of September 30,
2007, approximately $22.4 million would impact the annual effective tax rate if such amounts were
recognized. The remaining $17 million of unrecognized tax benefits relate to tax positions for
which the ultimate deductibility is highly certain but for which there is uncertainty about the
timing of such deductibility. Because of the impact of deferred tax accounting, other than
interest and penalties, the disallowance of the shorter deductibility period would not affect the
annual effective tax rate but would accelerate the payment of cash to the taxing authority to an
earlier period. Based on information obtained to date, the Company believes that it is reasonably
possible that within the next 12 months certain U.S. state examinations will be resolved, which
could result in a decrease in unrecognized tax benefits of up to $0.6 million. Additionally, the
Company believes it is reasonably possible that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits could
decrease by $1.4 million within the next 12 months
due to lapses in statutes of limitations in multiple state jurisdictions.
9
UST Inc.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and other tax authorities in various states and foreign
jurisdictions audit the Companys income tax returns on a continuous basis. Depending on the tax
jurisdiction, a number of years may elapse before a particular matter for which the Company has an
unrecognized tax benefit is audited and ultimately resolved. With few exceptions, the Company is
no longer subject to federal, state and local or foreign income tax examinations by tax authorities
for years before 2003. While it is often difficult to predict the timing of tax audits and their
final outcome, the Company believes that its estimates reflect the most likely outcome of known tax
contingencies. However, the final resolution of any such tax audit could result in either a
reduction in the Companys accruals or an increase in its income tax provision, both of which could
have a significant impact on its results of operations in any given period.
The Companys effective tax rate on earnings from continuing operations decreased to 36.1 percent
for both the third quarter and first nine months of 2007, from 37.3 percent for both the third
quarter and first nine months of 2006. The decrease in the effective tax rate on earnings from
continuing operations for both 2007 periods, as compared to 2006, was primarily due to the
scheduled statutory increase in 2007 for the deduction available for qualified domestic production
activities.
7 SEGMENT INFORMATION
The Companys reportable segments are Smokeless Tobacco and Wine. Those business units that do not
meet quantitative reportable thresholds are included in All Other Operations. Included in All
Other Operations for both periods are the Companys international operations. Interim segment
information is as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended |
|
|
Nine Months Ended |
|
|
|
September 30, |
|
|
September 30, |
|
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2006 |
|
Net Sales to Unaffiliated Customers |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Smokeless Tobacco |
|
$ |
384,067 |
|
|
$ |
377,258 |
|
|
$ |
1,150,518 |
|
|
$ |
1,142,646 |
|
Wine (3) |
|
|
82,286 |
|
|
|
69,536 |
|
|
|
230,581 |
|
|
|
187,845 |
|
All Other |
|
|
13,259 |
|
|
|
11,855 |
|
|
|
36,785 |
|
|
|
34,699 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net sales |
|
$ |
479,612 |
|
|
$ |
458,649 |
|
|
$ |
1,417,884 |
|
|
$ |
1,365,190 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating Profit (1) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Smokeless Tobacco (2) |
|
$ |
213,073 |
|
|
$ |
186,153 |
|
|
$ |
507,821 |
|
|
$ |
597,295 |
|
Wine (3) |
|
|
12,674 |
|
|
|
9,448 |
|
|
|
35,053 |
|
|
|
27,371 |
|
All Other |
|
|
4,195 |
|
|
|
4,336 |
|
|
|
13,136 |
|
|
|
11,955 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating profit |
|
|
229,942 |
|
|
|
199,937 |
|
|
|
556,010 |
|
|
|
636,621 |
|
Gain on Sale of Corporate Headquarters Building |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
105,143 |
|
|
|
|
|
Corporate expenses (1) |
|
|
(11,550 |
) |
|
|
(7,824 |
) |
|
|
(37,335 |
) |
|
|
(22,551 |
) |
Interest, net |
|
|
(9,308 |
) |
|
|
(9,955 |
) |
|
|
(27,438 |
) |
|
|
(32,218 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings from continuing operations before income
taxes |
|
$ |
209,084 |
|
|
$ |
182,158 |
|
|
$ |
596,380 |
|
|
$ |
581,852 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
Operating profit for each reportable segment and corporate expenses for all periods
presented reflect the impact of restructuring charges, as applicable. See Note 13,
Restructuring, for additional information. |
|
(2) |
|
For the three months ended September 30, 2007 and the nine months ending September
30, 2007 and 2006, Smokeless Tobacco segment operating profit includes antitrust litigation
charges of $3.2 million, $125.3 million and $1.4 million, respectively. See Note 14,
Contingencies, for additional information. |
|
(3) |
|
Wine segment net sales and operating profit include the results of Stags Leap
Wine Cellars as of the September 11, 2007 acquisition date. See Note 15, Other Matters, for
additional information. |
10
UST Inc.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
The Companys identifiable assets by reportable segment as of September 30, 2007 did not change
significantly from amounts appearing in the December 31, 2006 Consolidated Segment Information
(See the 2006 Form 10-K), with the exception of Corporate and Wine segment assets. Wine segment
assets reflect an increase due to the acquisition of Stags Leap Wine Cellars, with a related
decrease in Corporate assets due to the cash paid in connection with the acquisition (See Note 15,
Other Matters for further information).
8 ASSETS HELD FOR SALE
At September 30, 2007, the Company had no assets classified as held for sale, as the properties
held for sale at December 31, 2006 were either sold or reclassified back into property, plant and
equipment during the nine months ended September 30, 2007.
In September 2007, $1.8 million relating to the Companys corporate conference center located in
Watch Hill, Rhode Island was reclassified to property, plant and equipment, net as the Company no
longer expects it will be able to sell the property within the twelve-month period allowed under
SFAS No. 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets. A cumulative
retroactive depreciation adjustment upon reclassification was not required, as the carrying value
of the property was equal to its estimated salvage value at the time of initial classification
within assets held for sale. Prior to this reclassification, the property was included within
assets held for sale on the December 31, 2006 Consolidated Statement of Financial Position.
In March 2007, the Company finalized the sale of its corporate headquarters for cash proceeds of
$130 million, as well as a below-market, short-term lease with an imputed fair market value of
approximately $6.7 million. This sale resulted in a pre-tax gain of approximately $105 million,
which is reported on the gain on sale of corporate headquarters building line in the Condensed
Consolidated Statement of Operations. Prior to this transaction, the property was included within
assets held for sale on the December 31, 2006 Consolidated Statement of Financial Position.
In January 2007, the Company sold a winery property located in the State of Washington for net
proceeds of $3.1 million, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $2 million, which was recorded as a
reduction to selling, advertising and administrative (SA&A) expenses in the Condensed
Consolidated Statement of Operations. Prior to this transaction, the property was included within
assets held for sale on the December 31, 2006 Consolidated Statement of Financial Position.
In March 2006, the Company sold a winery property located in California with a carrying value of
$3.4 million for net proceeds of $5.9 million, resulting in a pre-tax gain of $2.5 million, which
was recorded as a reduction to SA&A expenses in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations.
9 NET EARNINGS PER SHARE
Basic earnings per share is computed by dividing net earnings by the weighted-average number of
shares of common stock outstanding during the period. Diluted earnings per share is computed by
dividing net earnings by the weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding during
the period, increased to include the number of shares of common stock that would have been
outstanding had all potentially dilutive shares of common stock been issued. The dilutive effect
of outstanding options, restricted stock and restricted stock units is reflected in diluted earnings per share by applying the treasury stock
11
UST Inc.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
method under SFAS No. 128, Earnings per Share. Under the treasury stock method, an increase in the fair value of the
Companys common stock can result in a greater dilutive effect from outstanding options, restricted
stock and restricted stock units. Furthermore, the exercise of options and the vesting of
restricted stock and restricted stock units can result in a greater dilutive effect on earnings per
share than that recognized under the treasury stock method.
The following table presents the computation of basic and diluted net earnings per share:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended |
|
|
Nine Months Ended |
|
|
|
September 30, |
|
|
September 30, |
|
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Numerator: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings from continuing operations |
|
$ |
133,600 |
|
|
$ |
114,195 |
|
|
$ |
381,084 |
|
|
$ |
364,763 |
|
Income from discontinued operations |
|
|
|
|
|
|
3,890 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3,890 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings |
|
$ |
133,600 |
|
|
$ |
118,085 |
|
|
$ |
381,084 |
|
|
$ |
368,653 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Denominator: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Denominator for basic earnings
per share weighted-average shares |
|
|
157,666 |
|
|
|
160,440 |
|
|
|
159,056 |
|
|
|
160,940 |
|
Dilutive effect of share-based awards |
|
|
1,285 |
|
|
|
1,747 |
|
|
|
1,480 |
|
|
|
1,415 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Denominator for diluted earnings per share |
|
|
158,951 |
|
|
|
162,187 |
|
|
|
160,536 |
|
|
|
162,355 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings per basic share: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings from continuing operations |
|
$ |
0.85 |
|
|
$ |
0.71 |
|
|
$ |
2.40 |
|
|
$ |
2.27 |
|
Income from discontinued operations |
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.03 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.02 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings per basic share |
|
$ |
0.85 |
|
|
$ |
0.74 |
|
|
$ |
2.40 |
|
|
$ |
2.29 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings per diluted share: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Earnings from continuing operations |
|
$ |
0.84 |
|
|
$ |
0.71 |
|
|
$ |
2.37 |
|
|
$ |
2.25 |
|
Income from discontinued operations |
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.02 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
0.02 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net earnings per diluted share |
|
$ |
0.84 |
|
|
$ |
0.73 |
|
|
$ |
2.37 |
|
|
$ |
2.27 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Options to purchase approximately 0.3 million and nine thousand shares of common stock outstanding
as of September 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively, were not included in the computation of diluted
earnings per share because their exercise prices were greater than the average market price of the
Companys common stock and, therefore, were antidilutive.
10 COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
The components of comprehensive income for the Company are net earnings, foreign currency
translation adjustments, the change in the fair value of derivatives designated as effective cash
flow hedges and changes in deferred components of net periodic pension and other postretirement
benefit costs. For the third quarter of 2007 and 2006, total comprehensive income, net of taxes,
amounted to $131.6 million and $114.7 million, respectively. For the first nine months of 2007 and
2006, total comprehensive income, net of taxes, amounted to $382.5 million and $367.5 million,
respectively.
12
UST Inc.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
11 PURCHASE COMMITMENTS
As of September 30, 2007, the Company had entered into unconditional purchase obligations in the
form of contractual commitments. Unconditional purchase obligations are commitments that are
either noncancelable or cancelable only under certain predefined conditions.
As of September 30, 2007, the Company has contractual obligations of approximately $83.5 million
for the purchase of leaf tobacco to be used in the production of moist smokeless tobacco products.
In the first quarter of 2007, the Company completed $15.3 million in leaf tobacco purchases related
to all contracts outstanding at December 31, 2006. The majority of the contractual obligations to
purchase leaf tobacco are expected to be fulfilled by the end of 2008.
Purchase commitments under contracts to purchase grapes for the periods beyond one year are subject
to variability resulting from potential changes in applicable grape market price indices. The
following table presents a summary of the net change in the Companys future payment obligations
since January 1, 2007, and the balance of such commitments at September 30, 2007, for the purchases
and processing of grapes for use in the production of wine, based upon estimated yields and market
conditions:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2008 |
|
|
2009 |
|
|
2010 |
|
|
2011 |
|
|
Thereafter |
|
|
Total |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Grape commitments January 1, 2007 |
|
$ |
66,805 |
|
|
$ |
65,605 |
|
|
$ |
65,776 |
|
|
$ |
63,193 |
|
|
$ |
59,047 |
|
|
$ |
125,011 |
|
|
$ |
445,437 |
|
Net (decrease) increase |
|
|
(12,380 |
) |
|
|
7,903 |
|
|
|
5,393 |
|
|
|
4,040 |
|
|
|
2,658 |
|
|
|
10,937 |
|
|
|
18,551 |
|
|
|
|
Grape commitments Sept 30, 2007 |
|
$ |
54,425 |
|
|
$ |
73,508 |
|
|
$ |
71,169 |
|
|
$ |
67,233 |
|
|
$ |
61,705 |
|
|
$ |
135,948 |
|
|
$ |
463,988 |
|
|
|
|
12 DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES
The Company has hedged against the variability of forecasted interest payments attributable to
changes in interest rates through the date of an anticipated debt issuance in 2009 via a forward
starting interest rate swap. The forward starting interest rate swap has a notional amount of $100
million and the terms call for the Company to receive interest quarterly at a variable rate equal
to the London InterBank Offered Rate (LIBOR) and to pay interest semi-annually at a fixed rate of
5.715 percent. The fair value of the forward starting interest rate swap at September 30, 2007 was
a net liability of $2.2 million, based on a dealer quote, considering current market rates, and was
included in other assets on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position.
Accumulated other comprehensive loss at September 30, 2007 included the accumulated loss on the
cash flow hedge (net of taxes) of $1.4 million, which reflects $1.8 million of other comprehensive
loss and $0.6 million of other comprehensive income recognized for the three and nine months ended
September 30, 2007, respectively, in connection with the change in fair value of the swap.
The Company has hedged the interest rate risk on its $40 million aggregate principal amount of
floating rate senior notes with a ten-year interest rate swap having a notional amount of $40
million and quarterly settlement dates over the term of the contract. The Company pays a fixed rate
of 7.25 percent and receives a floating rate of three-month LIBOR plus 90 basis points on the
notional amount. The fair value of the swap at September 30, 2007 was a net liability of $1.8
million, based on a dealer quote, considering current market conditions, and was included in other
liabilities on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position. Accumulated other
comprehensive loss at September 30, 2007 included the accumulated loss on the cash flow hedge (net
of taxes) of $1.2 million, which reflects the $0.7 million and $0.5 million of other
13
UST Inc.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
comprehensive
loss recognized for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2007, respectively, in
connection with the change in fair value of the swap.
13 RESTRUCTURING
During the third quarter of 2006, the Company announced and commenced implementation of a
cost-reduction initiative called Project Momentum, with targeted savings of at least $100 million
over its first three years. This initiative is designed to create additional resources for growth
via operational productivity and efficiency enhancements. The Company believes that such an effort
is prudent as it will provide additional financial flexibility in the increasingly competitive
smokeless tobacco category. As previously reported in the Companys Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
for the quarter ended June 30, 2007, the Company finalized plans on various other initiatives,
primarily related to manufacturing operations and procurement functions, expected to generate $50
million in additional savings beyond the initial $100 million of targeted savings. The incremental
$50 million of savings are expected to be realized in 2008 and 2009.
In connection with the continued implementation of Project Momentum, restructuring charges of $1.7
million and $9.1 million were recognized for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2007,
respectively, and are reported on the restructuring charges line in the Condensed Consolidated
Statement of Operations. These charges were incurred in connection with the formal plans undertaken
by management and are accounted for in accordance with SFAS No. 146, Accounting for Costs
Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities. The recognition of certain restructuring charges
involves the use of judgments and estimates regarding the nature, timing and amount of costs to be
incurred under Project Momentum. While the Company believes that its estimates are appropriate and
reasonable based upon the information available, actual results could differ from such estimates.
The following table provides a summary of restructuring charges incurred for the three and nine
months ended September 30, 2007, as well as cumulative charges incurred to date and the total
amount of charges expected to be incurred, in connection with Project Momentum, for each major type
of cost associated with the initiative:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Restructuring |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Charges Incurred for |
|
|
Restructuring Charges |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
the Three Months |
|
|
Incurred for the Nine |
|
|
Cumulative Charges |
|
|
Total Charges |
|
|
|
Ended |
|
|
Months Ended |
|
|
Incurred as of |
|
|
Expected to be |
|
|
|
September 30, 2007 |
|
|
September 30, 2007 |
|
|
September 30, 2007 |
|
|
Incurred(1) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
One-time termination benefits |
|
$ |
828 |
|
|
$ |
1,472 |
|
|
$ |
17,097 |
|
|
$ |
19,700 - $21,200 |
|
Contract termination costs |
|
|
85 |
|
|
|
106 |
|
|
|
496 |
|
|
|
400 - 500 |
|
Other restructuring costs |
|
|
764 |
|
|
|
7,527 |
|
|
|
13,509 |
|
|
|
13,400 - 13,800 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
1,677 |
|
|
$ |
9,105 |
|
|
$ |
31,102 |
|
|
$ |
33,500-$35,500 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
The total cost of one-time termination benefits expected to be incurred under
Project Momentum reflects the initiatives overall anticipated elimination of approximately 10
percent of the Companys salaried, full-time positions across various functions and operations,
primarily at the Companys corporate headquarters, as well as a reduction in the number of hourly
positions within the manufacturing operations. The majority of the total restructuring costs
expected to be incurred, related to the initial savings target of $100 million, were recognized in
2006, with the remainder anticipated to be recognized by the end of 2007, while the charges to be
incurred in connection with the incremental $50 million in savings are expected to be recognized
through 2008, with the majority anticipated to be recorded by the end of 2007. Total restructuring
charges expected to be incurred related to the aforementioned $150 million in aggregate savings
currently represent the Companys best estimates of the ranges of such charges, although there may
be additional charges recognized as additional actions are identified and finalized. |
14
UST Inc.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
One-time termination benefits relate to severance-related costs and outplacement services for
employees terminated in connection with Project Momentum, as well as enhanced retirement benefits
for qualified individuals. Contract termination costs primarily relate to the termination of
operating leases in conjunction
with the consolidation and relocation of facilities. Other restructuring costs are mainly
comprised of other costs directly related to the implementation of Project Momentum, primarily
professional fees, as well as asset impairment charges and costs incurred in connection with the
relocation of the Companys headquarters.
The following table provides a summary of restructuring charges incurred for the three and nine
months ended September 30, 2007, as well as cumulative charges incurred to date and the total
amount of charges expected to be incurred, in connection with Project Momentum, by reportable
segment:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Restructuring |
|
|
Restructuring |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Charges Incurred for |
|
|
Charges Incurred for |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
the Three Months |
|
|
the Nine Months |
|
|
Cumulative Charges |
|
|
Total Charges |
|
|
|
Ended |
|
|
Ended |
|
|
Incurred as of |
|
|
Expected to be |
|
|
|
September 30, 2007 |
|
|
September 30, 2007 |
|
|
September 30, 2007 |
|
|
Incurred |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Smokeless Tobacco |
|
$ |
403 |
|
|
$ |
6,889 |
|
|
$ |
26,431 |
|
|
$ |
28,500 - $30,200 |
|
Wine |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
322 |
|
|
|
400 - 500 |
|
All Other Operations |
|
|
615 |
|
|
|
615 |
|
|
|
766 |
|
|
|
1,100 - 1,200 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total reportable segments |
|
|
1,018 |
|
|
|
7,504 |
|
|
|
27,519 |
|
|
$ |
30,000 - $31,900 |
|
Corporate (unallocated) |
|
|
659 |
|
|
|
1,601 |
|
|
|
3,583 |
|
|
|
3,500 - 3,600 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
1,677 |
|
|
$ |
9,105 |
|
|
$ |
31,102 |
|
|
$ |
33,500 - $35,500 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Accrued restructuring charges are included in the accounts payable and accrued expenses line on
the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position. A reconciliation of the changes in the
liability balance since December 31, 2006 is presented below.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
One-Time |
|
|
Contract |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Termination |
|
|
Termination |
|
|
Other |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Benefits |
|
|
Costs |
|
|
Costs |
|
|
Total |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance as of December 31, 2006 |
|
$ |
4,349 |
|
|
$ |
192 |
|
|
$ |
52 |
|
|
$ |
4,593 |
|
Add: restructuring charges incurred |
|
|
1,472 |
|
|
|
106 |
|
|
|
7,527 |
|
|
|
9,105 |
|
Less: payments |
|
|
(4,685 |
) |
|
|
(187 |
) |
|
|
(6,464 |
) |
|
|
(11,336 |
) |
Less: reclassified liabilities (1) |
|
|
(67 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
(713 |
) |
|
|
(780 |
) |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Balance as of September 30, 2007 |
|
$ |
1,069 |
|
|
$ |
111 |
|
|
$ |
402 |
|
|
$ |
1,582 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
Represents liabilities associated with restructuring charges that have been recorded
within other line items on the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Financial Position at September
30, 2007. The amount reflected in the One-Time Termination Benefits column relates to share-based
compensation, which is included in additional paid-in capital. The amount reflected in the Other
Costs column relates to asset impairment charges which were reclassified as reductions to the
respective asset categories. |
15
UST Inc.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
14 CONTINGENCIES
The Company has been named in certain health care cost reimbursement/third party recoupment/class
action litigation against the major domestic cigarette companies and others seeking damages and
other relief. The complaints in these cases on their face predominantly relate to the usage of
cigarettes; within that context, certain complaints contain a few allegations relating specifically
to smokeless tobacco products. These actions are in varying stages of pretrial activities. The
Company believes these pending litigation matters will not result in any material liability for a
number of reasons, including the fact that the Company has had only limited involvement with
cigarettes and the Companys current percentage of total tobacco industry sales is relatively
small. Prior to 1986, the Company manufactured some cigarette products which had a de minimis
market share. From May 1, 1982 to August 1, 1994, the Company distributed a small volume of
imported cigarettes and is indemnified against claims relating to those products.
Smokeless Tobacco Litigation
The Company is named in certain actions in West Virginia brought on behalf of individual plaintiffs
against cigarette manufacturers, smokeless tobacco manufacturers, and other organizations seeking
damages and other relief in connection with injuries allegedly sustained as a result of tobacco
usage, including smokeless tobacco products. Included among the plaintiffs are three individuals
alleging use of the Companys smokeless tobacco products and alleging the types of injuries claimed
to be associated with the use of smokeless tobacco products. These individuals also allege the use
of other tobacco products.
The Company is named in an action in Florida by an individual plaintiff against various smokeless
tobacco manufacturers including the Company for personal injuries, including cancer, oral lesions,
leukoplakia, gum loss and other injuries allegedly resulting from the use of the Companys
smokeless tobacco products. The plaintiff also claims nicotine addiction and seeks unspecified
compensatory damages and certain equitable and other relief, including, but not limited to, medical
monitoring.
The Company has been named in an action in Connecticut brought by a plaintiff individually, as
executrix and fiduciary of her deceased husbands estate and on behalf of their minor children for
injuries, including squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue, allegedly sustained by decedent as a
result of his use of the Companys smokeless tobacco products. The Complaint also alleges
addiction to smokeless tobacco. The Complaint seeks compensatory and punitive damages in excess
of $15 thousand and other relief.
The Company believes, and has been so advised by counsel handling these cases, that it has a number
of meritorious defenses to all such pending litigation. Except as to the Companys willingness to
consider alternative solutions for resolving litigation issues, all such cases are, and will
continue to be, vigorously defended. The Company believes that the ultimate outcome of such
pending litigation will not have a material adverse effect on its consolidated financial results or
its consolidated financial position, although if plaintiffs were to prevail, the effect of any
judgment or settlement could have a material adverse impact on its consolidated financial results
in the particular reporting period in which resolved and, depending on the size of any such
judgment or settlement, a material adverse effect on its consolidated financial position.
Notwithstanding the Companys assessment of the potential financial impact of these cases, the
Company is not able to estimate with any certainty the amount of loss, if any, which would be
associated with an adverse resolution.
16
UST Inc.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
Antitrust Litigation
Following a previous antitrust action brought against the Company by a competitor, Conwood Company
L.P, the Company was named as a defendant in certain actions brought by indirect purchasers
(consumers and
retailers) in a number of jurisdictions. As indirect purchasers of the Companys smokeless tobacco
products during various periods of time ranging from January 1990 to the date of certification or
potential certification of the proposed class, plaintiffs in those actions allege, individually and
on behalf of putative class members in a particular state or individually and on behalf of class
members in the applicable states, that the Company has violated the antitrust laws, unfair and
deceptive trade practices statutes and/or common law of those states. In connection with these
actions, plaintiffs sought to recover compensatory and statutory damages in an amount not to exceed
$75 thousand per purported class member or per class member, and certain other relief. The indirect
purchaser actions, as filed, were similar in all material respects.
Prior to 2007, actions in all but four of the jurisdictions were resolved, either through
court-approved settlements or dismissals, including a dismissal in the New Hampshire action that
was subsequently reversed on appeal by the plaintiffs. Pursuant to the settlements, adult
consumers received coupons redeemable on future purchases of the Companys moist smokeless tobacco
products, and the Company agreed to pay all related administrative costs and plaintiffs
attorneys fees.
In May 2007, the Company entered into a Settlement Agreement to resolve the Wisconsin class
action. The Wisconsin Settlement Agreement has been preliminarily approved by the court. In
September 2007, the Company entered into a Settlement Agreement to resolve the California class
action which has been preliminarily approved by the court. For additional details on the
resolution of the California class action, see Item 1. Legal Proceedings in Part II. In
connection with the resolution of the Wisconsin and California class actions, the Company recorded
a $122.1 million pre-tax charge in the first quarter of 2007 related to the estimated costs to
resolve these actions, subject to respective court approval. Approximately $28.5 million of this
charge relates to settlement of the Wisconsin action resulting from court-ordered mediation in
April 2007. The charge reflects costs attributable to coupons that will be distributed to
consumers, which will be redeemable on future purchases of the Companys moist smokeless tobacco
products. Also reflected in the Wisconsin charge are plaintiffs attorneys fees and other
administrative costs of the settlement. The remaining $93.6 million of the first quarter 2007
charge relates to settlement of the California action in May 2007, as a result of court-ordered
mediation. This charge brings the total recognized liability for the California action to $96
million, which reflects the cost of cash payments to be made to the benefit of class members, as
well as plaintiffs attorneys fees and other administrative costs of the settlement.
The liability associated with the Companys estimated costs to resolve all indirect purchaser
actions increased to approximately $132.5 million at September 30, 2007, from $12.9 million at
December 31, 2006, primarily as a result of the charge recognized for the Wisconsin and California
settlements, as well as a charge recognized in connection with the Kansas and New York settlement,
as discussed further below. These increases were partially offset by actual coupon redemption and
payments of administrative costs related to previous settlements.
To date, indirect purchaser actions in almost all of the jurisdictions have been resolved,
including those subject to court approval, leaving three unresolved actions in the States of
Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and New Hampshire. In the Pennsylvania action, which is before a
federal court in Pennsylvania, the Third Circuit Court of Appeals has accepted the Companys
appeal of the trial courts denial of the Companys motion to dismiss the complaint. The Company
continues to believe there is insufficient basis for plaintiffs
17
UST Inc.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
complaint. In August 2007, the
New Hampshire Supreme Court reversed the order granting the Companys motion to dismiss the New
Hampshire action and remanded the case for further proceedings. The Company believes the facts
and circumstances in the New Hampshire action and the Massachusetts class action will continue to
support its defenses. The Company believes, and has been so advised by counsel handling these
actions, that it has meritorious defenses in this regard, and they are and will continue to be
vigorously defended. The Company believes that the ultimate outcome of these actions will not have
a material adverse effect on its consolidated financial results or its consolidated financial
position, although if plaintiffs were to prevail, beyond the amounts accrued, the effect of any judgment or settlement could have a material adverse
impact on its consolidated financial results in the particular reporting period in which resolved
and, depending on the size of any such judgment or settlement, a material adverse effect on its
consolidated financial position. Notwithstanding the Companys assessment of the financial impact
of these actions, management is not able to estimate the amount of loss, if any, beyond the
amounts accrued, which could be associated with an adverse resolution.
Also, two additional matters remain outstanding in connection with indirect purchaser actions.
Counsel for plaintiffs in the settlement of the Kansas and New York actions filed a motion for an
additional amount of approximately $8.5 million in attorneys fees, expenses and costs, plus
interest, beyond the previously agreed-upon amounts already paid by the Company. An evidentiary
hearing on plaintiffs motion was held in April 2006. In August 2007, the court granted
plaintiffs motion and entered judgment against the Company in the amount of approximately $3
million in additional attorneys fees and expenses, along with prejudgment interest on a portion
of the award. In connection with the courts granting of this motion, a charge of $3.2 million,
inclusive of interest, was recognized in the third quarter of 2007.
The Company has been served with a purported class action complaint filed in federal court in West
Virginia, attempting to challenge certain aspects of a prior settlement approved by the Tennessee
state court and seeking additional amounts purportedly consistent with subsequent settlements of
similar actions, estimated by plaintiffs to be between $8.9 million and $214.2 million, as well as
punitive damages and attorneys fees. The Company believes, and has been so advised by counsel
handling this case, that it has meritorious defenses in this regard, and will continue to
vigorously defend against this complaint. As such, the Company has not recognized a liability for
the additional amounts sought in this complaint.
The Company believes that the ultimate outcome of these two matters will not have a material
adverse effect on its consolidated financial results or its consolidated financial position,
although if plaintiffs were to prevail, the effect of an adverse resolution could have a material
adverse impact on its consolidated financial results in the particular reporting period in which
resolved and, depending on the size of any such resolution, a material adverse effect on its
consolidated financial position. Notwithstanding the Companys assessment of the financial impact
of these actions, management is not able to estimate the amount of loss, if any, which could be
associated with an adverse resolution.
Other Litigation
The Company has been named in an action in California brought by the People of the State of
California, in the name of the Attorney General of the State of California, alleging that the
Companys sponsorship relating to the National Hot Rod Association violates various provisions of
the Smokeless Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement (STMSA) and the related Consent Decree entered
in connection with the STMSA (see Note 15, Other Matters for additional information regarding
the STMSA). The complaint seeks
18
UST Inc.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
declaratory and injunctive relief, unspecified monetary
sanctions, attorneys fees and costs, and a finding of civil contempt. In July 2007, the parties
reached a non-binding agreement in principle to resolve this matter. In connection with such
agreement, a charge was recognized during the second quarter of 2007. In August 2007, the Court
entered a Stipulation for Entry of Judgment and Final Judgment, thereby dismissing this matter
without prejudice.
15 OTHER MATTERS
Tobacco Reform Act
On October 22, 2004, the Fair and Equitable Tobacco Reform Act of 2004 (the Tobacco Reform
Act) was enacted in connection with a comprehensive federal corporate reform and jobs creation
bill. Under the Tobacco Reform Act, the Secretary of Agriculture imposes quarterly assessments on
tobacco manufacturers and importers used to fund a trust to compensate tobacco quota farmers. The
Company does not believe that the assessments imposed under the Tobacco Reform Act will have a
material adverse impact on its consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash
flows in any reporting period. The Company recognized charges of approximately $0.9 million and
$2.8 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2007, respectively, and $0.8
million and $2.4 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2006, respectively,
associated with the assessments required by the Tobacco Reform Act.
Smokeless Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement
In November 1998, the Company entered into the STMSA with the attorneys general of various states
and U.S. territories to resolve the remaining health care cost reimbursement cases initiated
against the Company. The STMSA required the Company to adopt various marketing and advertising
restrictions and make payments potentially totaling $100 million over a minimum of 10 years for
programs to reduce youth usage of tobacco and combat youth substance abuse and for enforcement
purposes. For the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2007, total charges recorded
by the Company in connection with the STMSA were $4.6 million and $13.8 million, respectively.
Total charges recorded by the Company in connection with the STMSA for the third quarter and nine
months ended September 30, 2006 were $4.1 million and $12.5 million, respectively.
For further information on both items, refer to Part II, Item 8 Financial Statements and
Supplementary Data Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements Note 22, Other Matters,
in the 2006 Form 10-K.
Acquisition
On September 11, 2007, the Company completed its acquisition of Stags Leap Wine Cellars (Stags
Leap) and its signature Napa Valley, CA vineyards. Stags Leap is one of the worlds most highly
regarded winery estates, known for distinctive world-class wines, which includes its icon brand
CASK 23, as well as the Fay, S.L.V., Arcadia, Artemis, Karia and Hawk Crest labels. Consistent
with the Companys focus on becoming one of the premier fine wine companies in the world, this
acquisition provides additional prestige to the Wine segments acclaimed portfolio and is expected
to contribute to the segments continued operating profit growth.
19
UST Inc.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
The acquisition of Stags Leap was completed through one of the Companys consolidated
subsidiaries, Michelle-Antinori, LLC (Michelle-Antinori), in which the Company holds an 85
percent ownership interest, with a 15 percent minority ownership interest held by Antinori
California (Antinori). Michelle-Antinori acquired 100 percent of Stags Leap for a total
aggregate consideration of approximately $185 million, comprised of cash and assumed debt. The
purchase price was based primarily on the estimated future operating results of the Stags Leap
business, as well as an estimated benefit from operating cost synergies. Concurrent with the
closing of the acquisition, the Company repaid the entire amount of assumed debt, plus accrued
interest. In connection with the acquisition, the Company provided short-term bridge financing to
Antinori for its 15 percent share of the purchase price via a non-recourse loan bearing an interest
rate of 7 percent. As of September 30, 2007, the full amount of the loan was repaid by Antinori.
The results of operations of the Stags Leap business are reported in the Wine segment and have
been included in the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations since the acquisition date.
The following table summarizes the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities
assumed in
connection with the Stags Leap acquisition. The allocated purchase price includes estimated
direct acquisition costs of $1.9 million. In determining the fair values of intangible assets, as
well as certain tangible assets, the Company obtained third-party valuations. The Company is
currently in the process of completing its review of these reports and may require additional
information; thus, the allocation of the purchase price is deemed to be preliminary and may be
subject to refinements. Estimated fair values at September 11, 2007 are as follows:
|
|
|
|
|
Current assets |
|
$ |
41,262 |
|
Property, plant and equipment |
|
|
72,147 |
|
Intangible assets |
|
|
52,440 |
|
Goodwill |
|
|
27,386 |
|
Other assets |
|
|
319 |
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets acquired |
|
|
193,554 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Current liabilities |
|
|
10,964 |
|
|
|
|
|
Total liabilities assumed |
|
|
10,964 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Net assets acquired |
|
$ |
182,590 |
|
|
|
|
|
Of the $52.4 million of acquired intangible assets, $39.2 million was assigned to trademarks that
are not subject to amortization. The remaining $13.2 million of acquired intangible assets are
subject to amortization, and include customer relationships of $12.9 million (18-year weighted
average useful life) and a non-compete agreement of $0.3 million (3-year useful life). The entire
amount of goodwill is expected to be deductible for tax purposes.
In connection with the acquisition of Stags Leap and the related formation of Michelle-Antinori,
the Company provided a put right to Antinori (minority put arrangement). The minority put
arrangement provides Antinori the right to require the Company to purchase its 15 percent ownership
interest in Michelle-Antinori at a price based on a fixed multiple of Stags Leaps earnings before
income taxes, depreciation, amortization and other non-cash items. The minority put arrangement
becomes exercisable beginning on the third anniversary of the Stags Leap acquisition (September
11, 2010). The Company accounts for the minority put arrangement as mandatorily redeemable
securities under Accounting Series Release No. 268, Redeemable Preferred Stocks, and Emerging
Issues Task Force Abstract Topic No. D-98, Classification and
20
UST Inc.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)
Measurement of Redeemable Securities, as redemption is outside of the control of the Company.
Under this accounting model, to the extent the value of the minority put arrangement is greater
than the minority interest reflected on the balance sheet (traditional minority interest), the
Company recognizes the difference as an increase to the value of minority interest, with an offset
to retained earnings and a similar reduction to the numerator in the earnings per share available
to common shareholders calculation. The Company also reflects any decreases to the amount in the
same manner, with the floor in all cases being the traditionally calculated minority interest
balance as of that date. The Company values the put arrangement by estimating its redemption value
as if the redemption date were the end of the current reporting period, using the most recent
12-month trailing earnings before income taxes, depreciation, amortization and other non-cash
items. As of September 30, 2007, the value of the minority put arrangement did not exceed the
traditional minority interest balance. Therefore, no adjustment was recognized in the Condensed
Consolidated Statement of Financial Position or in the calculation of earnings per share.
16 BORROWING ARRANGEMENTS
On June 29, 2007, the Company entered into a $300 million, five-year revolving credit facility (the
Credit Facility) which will primarily be used for general corporate purposes, including the
support of commercial paper borrowings. The Company may elect to increase its borrowing capacity
under the Credit Facility to $500 million subject to certain terms. The Credit Facility replaces
the Companys previous $300 million, three-year revolving credit facility which was terminated on
June 29, 2007. The Company did not have any borrowings under the Credit Facility at September 30,
2007.
Costs of approximately $0.3 million associated with the establishment of the Credit Facility were
capitalized and will be amortized over the applicable term. Approximately $16 thousand of these
costs were recognized in both the three and nine months ended September 30, 2007. The Credit
Facility requires the maintenance of a fixed charge coverage ratio, the payment of commitment and
administrative fees and includes affirmative and negative covenants customary for facilities of
this type. The commitment fee payable on the unused portion of the Credit Facility is determined
based on an interest rate, within a range of rates, dependent upon the Companys senior unsecured
debt rating. The commitment fee currently payable is 0.05 percent per annum. Commitment fees of $38
thousand were recognized in both the three and nine months ended September 30, 2007.
17 DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
Net earnings for 2006 included after-tax income of $3.9 million from discontinued operations, which
resulted from the reversal of an accrual for an income tax-related contingency originally recorded
in connection with the June 2004 transfer of the Companys former cigar operations to a smokeless
tobacco competitor. This reversal resulted from a change in facts and circumstances, as the income
tax consequences of the Companys anticipated sale of its corporate headquarters in connection with
Project Momentum have eliminated the need for the aforementioned contingency. The entire amount of
this reversal was recognized as an income tax benefit from discontinued operations.
21
Item 2. MANAGEMENTS DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
The following discussion and analysis of the Companys consolidated results of operations and
financial condition should be read in conjunction with the condensed consolidated financial
statements and notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements within this Quarterly
Report on Form 10-Q, as well as the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in
the 2006 Form 10-K. Herein, the Company makes forward-looking statements that involve risks,
uncertainties and assumptions. Actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in
those forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to,
those presented under Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information within
Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (MD&A).
In addition, the Company has presented certain risk factors relevant to the Companys business
included in Item 1A in Part I of the 2006 Form 10-K.
INTRODUCTION
MD&A is provided as a supplement to the accompanying consolidated financial statements and notes
thereto, to assist individuals in their review of such statements. MD&A has been organized as
follows:
|
|
|
OVERVIEW This section provides context for the remainder of MD&A, including a general
description of the Companys overall business, its business segments and a high-level
summary of Company-specific and industry-wide factors impacting its operations. |
|
|
|
|
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS This section provides an analysis of the Companys results of
operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2007 and 2006. This section
is organized using a layered approach, beginning with a discussion of consolidated results
at a summary level, followed by more detailed discussions of business segment results and
unallocated corporate items, including interest and income taxes. |
|
|
|
|
OUTLOOK This section provides information regarding the Companys current
expectations, mainly with regard to the remainder of the current fiscal year, and is
organized to provide information by business segment and on a consolidated basis. |
|
|
|
|
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES This section provides an analysis of the Companys
financial condition, including cash flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2007 and
2006 and any material updates to the Companys aggregate contractual obligations as of
September 30, 2007. |
|
|
|
|
NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS This section provides information regarding any newly issued
accounting standards which have not yet been adopted by the Company. |
OVERVIEW
BUSINESS
UST Inc. is a holding company for its wholly-owned subsidiaries: U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company and
International Wine & Spirits Ltd. Through its largest subsidiary, U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company,
the Company is a leading manufacturer and marketer of moist smokeless tobacco products including
brands such as Copenhagen, Skoal, Red Seal, Husky and Rooster. Through International Wine &
Spirits Ltd., the Company produces and markets premium wines sold nationally, via its Ste. Michelle
Wine Estates subsidiary, under labels such as Chateau Ste. Michelle, Columbia Crest, Conn Creek,
Villa Mt. Eden, Red
22
Diamond, Distant Bay, 14 Hands and Erath. In September 2007, through its
acquisition of Stags Leap Wine Cellars (Stags Leap) , the Company added the following labels: Cask 23, Fay, S.L.V., Arcadia, Artemis,
Karia and Hawk Crest. The Company also produces and markets sparkling wine under the Domaine Ste.
Michelle label. In addition, the Company is the exclusive United States importer and distributor of
the portfolio of wines produced by the Italian winemaker Antinori, which includes such labels as
Tignanello, Solaia, Tormaresca, Montenisa and Haras de Pirque.
The Company conducts its business principally in the United States. The Companys operations are
divided primarily into two reportable segments: Smokeless Tobacco and Wine. The Companys
international smokeless tobacco operations, which are not significant, are reported as All Other
Operations.
In the third quarter of 2006, the Company commenced implementation of a cost-reduction initiative
called Project Momentum, with targeted savings of at least $100 million over its first three
years. In addition, during 2007, the Company finalized plans on various other initiatives under
Project Momentum, primarily related to manufacturing operations and the procurement function, which
are expected to generate at least $50 million in additional savings beyond the original target,
resulting in a new savings target of at least $150 million over the original three-year period.
The majority of the incremental $50 million in savings are expected to be realized in 2008 and
2009. The Company believes that Project Momentum is prudent from a long-term growth perspective,
as it is designed to provide resources for additional financial flexibility, whether to address
potential competitive challenges in the smokeless tobacco category, make further investments behind
its brands or increase net earnings. Operating income results in both the third quarter and
nine-month periods of 2007 include the positive contribution realized from this initiative, with
certain savings realized earlier than originally planned. Given this progress to date, the Company
is confident that it is on track to realize Project Momentums overall targeted savings within the
aforementioned three-year timeframe. See Consolidated Results Restructuring Charges within the
Results of Operations section below for further information.
Category Growth
The Companys primary objective in the Smokeless Tobacco segment is to continue to grow the moist
smokeless tobacco category by building awareness and social acceptability of smokeless tobacco
products among adults, primarily smokers, with a secondary objective of being competitive in every
segment of the moist smokeless tobacco category. Over the past several years, industry trends have
shown that some adult consumers in this category have migrated from premium brands to brands in the
price-value segment. As such, a key to the Companys future growth and profitability is attracting
growing numbers of adult consumers, primarily smokers, to the moist smokeless tobacco category, as
approximately every one percent of adult smokers who convert to moist smokeless tobacco represents
a 7 percent to 8 percent increase in the categorys adult consumer base, and consumer research
indicates that the majority of new adult consumers enter the category in the premium segment.
In addition to advertising and one-on-one marketing initiatives focused on category growth, the
Company has utilized its direct mail marketing program to promote the discreetness and convenience
of smokeless tobacco relative to cigarettes to over 4.5 million adult smokers. The direct mail
program, which the Company believes has been successful over the past two years, continues in 2007.
The success of the Smokeless Tobacco segments category growth initiatives is also impacted by
product innovation, as evidenced by the contribution that new products have made over the past
several years. The Company believes that its
23
category growth efforts have contributed to the moist
smokeless tobacco categorys strong growth rates since their implementation.
Premium Brand Loyalty
While category growth remains the Companys priority, it has also focused its efforts on adult
consumer loyalty for its premium moist smokeless tobacco products. The premium brand loyalty plan
is designed to minimize migration from premium to price-value products by delivering value to adult
consumers through promotional spending and other price-focused initiatives. As a result of this
effort, premium volume has grown on a sequential basis during each of the last five quarters. For
2007, the Company now expects year-over-year premium net can volume growth of approximately 2
percent (excluding the positive impact of an extra billing day in the fourth quarter), which is in
line with the trends seen so far this year.
WINE SEGMENT
The Companys focus in the Wine segment is to become one of the premier fine wine companies in the
world, to elevate Washington state wines to the quality and prestige of the top regions of the
world, and to be known for superior products, innovation and customer focus. In order to achieve
these goals, attention is directed towards traditional style wines in the super premium to
luxury-priced categories. Recent achievements have been well aligned with these goals. According
to ACNielsen, Ste. Michelle Wine Estates was the fastest growing top-10 winery in the U.S. during
the first nine months of 2007, with the Companys wines comprising 7.1 percent of total domestic
750ml units over that period, as compared to 6.2 percent for the full year in 2006. The Company
continued to be the category leader for Riesling in 2007, based on ACNielsen data, comprising 32
percent of the domestic market on a year-to-date basis, reflecting a 2 percentage point increase
over the Companys reported full-year 2006 share. Overall, the Wine segment maintained its strong
leadership position in Washington State.
Strategic alliances and acquisitions in the Wine segment have also been important in enabling the
Company to achieve its long-term goals. The alliance with Antinori, to become its exclusive United
States importer and distributor, and the purchase of the Erath label and winery, both of which
occurred in 2006, have broadened the Wine segments position with respect to the two key wine
regions represented by Antinori and Erath. The addition of Antinori wines positions the Wine
segment as a leader in U.S. distribution of Tuscan wines, while the addition of Erath establishes
the Companys Wine segment as one of the largest producers of Oregon Pinot Noir. Consistent with
the Companys focus on becoming one of the premier fine wine companies in the world, in September
2007, the Company completed its acquisition of Stags Leap and its signature Napa Valley, CA
vineyards for approximately $185 million, with a 15 percent minority interest held by Antinori
California. This acquisition provides additional prestige to the Wine segments acclaimed
portfolio, further strengthens the Companys relationship with Antinori, and is expected to
contribute to the segments continued operating profit growth.
The Company remains focused on the continued expansion of its sales force and category management
staff to further broaden the distribution of its wines in the domestic market, especially in
certain account categories such as restaurants, wholesale chains and mass merchandisers. Sustained
growth in the Wine segment will also be dependent on third party acclaim and ongoing category
growth.
24
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
(In thousands, except per share amounts or where otherwise noted)
CONSOLIDATED RESULTS
Third Quarter of 2007 compared with the Third Quarter of 2006
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
September 30, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
2007 |
|
2006 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
Net sales |
|
$ |
479,612 |
|
|
$ |
458,649 |
|
|
$ |
20,963 |
|
|
|
4.6 |
|
Net earnings |
|
|
133,600 |
|
|
|
118,085 |
|
|
|
15,515 |
|
|
|
13.1 |
|
Basic earnings per share |
|
|
0.85 |
|
|
|
0.74 |
|
|
|
0.11 |
|
|
|
14.9 |
|
Diluted earnings per share |
|
|
0.84 |
|
|
|
0.73 |
|
|
|
0.11 |
|
|
|
15.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Restructuring charges |
|
|
1,677 |
|
|
|
17,495 |
|
|
|
(15,818 |
) |
|
|
(90.4 |
) |
Antitrust litigation |
|
|
3,158 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
3,158 |
|
|
|
|
|
Net Earnings
Consolidated net earnings increased in the third quarter of 2007, as compared to the third quarter
of 2006, as a result of increased operating income, the impact of a lower effective tax rate on
earnings from continuing operations and lower net interest expense. The Company reported operating
income of $218.4 million in the third quarter of 2007, representing 45.5 percent of consolidated
net sales, compared to operating income of $192.1 million, or 41.9 percent of consolidated net
sales, in the third quarter of 2006. The increase in operating income was primarily due to the
following:
|
|
|
Increased net sales and gross margins in all segments; |
|
|
|
|
Lower selling, advertising and administrative (SA&A) expenses in the Smokeless
Tobacco segment, which can be attributed to Project Momentum; and |
|
|
|
|
Lower restructuring charges incurred in connection with the Project Momentum
initiative, which commenced in the third quarter of 2006 (see Restructuring Charges
section below). The impact of restructuring charges adversely impacted the operating
margin percentage by approximately 0.3 percentage points and 3.8 percentage points in
the third quarter of 2007 and 2006, respectively. |
These factors were partially offset by:
|
|
|
An antitrust litigation charge of $3.2 million related to a ruling on a motion filed
with respect to the settlement of the Kansas and New York actions seeking additional
plaintiffs attorneys fees, expenses and costs, plus interest, which adversely impacted
the operating margin by 0.7 percentage points; and |
|
|
|
|
Increased unallocated corporate expenses, primarily due to the amortization of
imputed rent related to a below-market short-term lease the Company executed in
connection with the sale of its corporate headquarters building, which adversely
impacted the 2007 operating margin by 0.6 percentage points, as well as higher
professional fees. |
Net earnings for the third quarter of 2006 included after-tax income of $3.9 million from
discontinued operations, which resulted from the reversal of an accrual for an income tax-related
contingency originally recorded in connection with the June 2004 transfer of the Companys former
cigar operations to a smokeless
25
tobacco competitor. This reversal resulted from a change in facts
and circumstances, as the income tax consequences of the Companys then anticipated sale of its
corporate headquarters in connection with Project Momentum eliminated the need for the aforementioned contingency.
Basic and diluted earnings per share were $0.85 and $0.84, respectively, for the third quarter of
2007, representing increases of 14.9 percent and 15.1 percent, respectively, from each of the
corresponding comparative measures in 2006. Average basic shares outstanding were lower in the
third quarter of 2007 than in the comparable prior year period, primarily as a result of share
repurchases, partially offset by the exercise of stock options. Average diluted shares outstanding
in the third quarter of 2007 were lower than those in the third quarter of 2006 due to the impact
of share repurchases and a lower level of dilutive options outstanding.
Net Sales
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended |
|
|
Increase/ |
|
|
|
September 30, |
|
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
Amount |
|
|
% |
|
Net Sales by Segment: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Smokeless Tobacco |
|
$ |
384,067 |
|
|
$ |
377,258 |
|
|
$ |
6,809 |
|
|
|
1.8 |
|
Wine |
|
|
82,286 |
|
|
|
69,536 |
|
|
|
12,750 |
|
|
|
18.3 |
|
All Other Operations |
|
|
13,259 |
|
|
|
11,855 |
|
|
|
1,404 |
|
|
|
11.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Consolidated Net Sales |
|
$ |
479,612 |
|
|
$ |
458,649 |
|
|
$ |
20,963 |
|
|
|
4.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The increase in consolidated net sales for the third quarter of 2007, as compared to the third
quarter of 2006, was primarily due to the following:
|
|
|
Improved case volume for premium wine, including the addition of Stags Leap wines late
in the quarter; |
|
|
|
|
An increase in both premium and overall net can volume for moist smokeless tobacco
products; and |
|
|
|
|
Improved international results. |
These factors were partially offset by:
|
|
|
Lower net revenue realization per unit in the Smokeless Tobacco segment, reflecting the
impact of the premium brand loyalty plan. |
26
Segment Net Sales as a Percentage of Consolidated Net Sales
Gross Margin
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended |
|
|
Increase/ |
|
|
|
September 30, |
|
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
Amount |
|
|
% |
|
Gross Margin by Segment: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Smokeless Tobacco |
|
$ |
315,199 |
|
|
$ |
311,053 |
|
|
$ |
4,146 |
|
|
|
1.3 |
|
Wine |
|
|
29,626 |
|
|
|
24,210 |
|
|
|
5,416 |
|
|
|
22.4 |
|
All Other Operations |
|
|
8,318 |
|
|
|
7,531 |
|
|
|
787 |
|
|
|
10.5 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Consolidated Gross Margin |
|
$ |
353,143 |
|
|
$ |
342,794 |
|
|
$ |
10,349 |
|
|
|
3.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The consolidated gross margin increase in the third quarter of 2007, as compared to the third
quarter of 2006, was due to higher net sales in all segments, partially offset by higher cost of
products sold in all segments.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended |
|
|
|
|
September 30, |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
2007 |
|
2006 |
|
(Decrease) |
Gross Margin as a % of Net Sales by Segment: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Smokeless Tobacco |
|
|
82.1 |
% |
|
|
82.5 |
% |
|
|
(0.4 |
) |
Wine |
|
|
36.0 |
% |
|
|
34.8 |
% |
|
|
1.2 |
|
All Other Operations |
|
|
62.7 |
% |
|
|
63.5 |
% |
|
|
(0.8 |
) |
Consolidated |
|
|
73.6 |
% |
|
|
74.7 |
% |
|
|
(1.1 |
) |
27
The decline in the consolidated gross margin, as a percentage of net sales, was mainly due to the
following:
|
|
|
Higher case volume for wine, which sells at lower margins than moist smokeless tobacco
products; |
|
|
|
|
Increased unit costs in the Wine and Smokeless Tobacco segments; and |
|
|
|
|
Lower net revenue realization per unit in the Smokeless Tobacco segment. |
Restructuring Charges
The Company recognized $1.7 million in restructuring charges in the third quarter of 2007 in
connection with the continued implementation of Project Momentum, the Companys previously
announced cost-reduction initiative. Restructuring charges recognized in the third quarter of
2006, when the Project Momentum initiative commenced, amounted to $17.5 million. This initiative
is designed to create additional financial resources for growth via operational productivity and
efficiency enhancements. The Company believes that such an effort is prudent as it is designed to
provide additional flexibility in the increasingly competitive smokeless tobacco category. Refer
to the Restructuring Charges section within the First Nine Months of 2007 compared with the First
Nine Months of 2006 discussion below for additional information, including cumulative charges
incurred to date and the total amount of charges expected to be incurred in connection with Project
Momentum for each major type of cost associated with the initiative.
First Nine Months of 2007 compared with the First Nine Months of 2006
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nine Months Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
September 30, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
2007 |
|
2006 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
Net sales |
|
$ |
1,417,884 |
|
|
$ |
1,365,190 |
|
|
$ |
52,694 |
|
|
|
3.9 |
|
Net earnings |
|
|
381,084 |
|
|
|
368,653 |
|
|
|
12,431 |
|
|
|
3.4 |
|
Basic earnings per share |
|
|
2.40 |
|
|
|
2.29 |
|
|
|
0.11 |
|
|
|
4.8 |
|
Diluted earnings per share |
|
|
2.37 |
|
|
|
2.27 |
|
|
|
0.10 |
|
|
|
4.4 |
|
|
Gain on sale of corp. HQ bldg. |
|
|
105,143 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
105,143 |
|
|
|
|
|
Antitrust litigation |
|
|
125,258 |
|
|
|
1,350 |
|
|
|
123,908 |
|
|
|
|
|
Restructuring charges |
|
|
9,105 |
|
|
|
17,495 |
|
|
|
(8,390 |
) |
|
|
(48.0) |
|
28
Net Earnings
Consolidated net earnings increased in the first nine months of 2007, as compared to the first nine
months of 2006, as a result of increased operating income, the impact of a lower effective tax rate
on earnings from continuing operations and lower net interest expense. The Company reported
operating income of $623.8 million in the first nine months of 2007, representing 44 percent of
consolidated net sales, compared to operating income of $614.1 million, or 45 percent of
consolidated net sales, in the first nine months of 2006. The increase in operating income was
primarily due to the following:
|
|
|
The impact of a $105 million pre-tax gain recognized in connection with the sale of
the Companys corporate headquarters building, which favorably impacted the operating
margin percentage by 7.4 percentage points; |
|
|
|
|
Increased net sales and gross margin in all segments; |
|
|
|
|
Lower SA&A expenses in the Smokeless Tobacco segment, which can be traced to the
impact of Project Momentum; and |
|
|
|
|
Lower restructuring charges incurred in connection with the Project Momentum
initiative, which commenced in the third quarter of 2006 (see Restructuring Charges
section below). The impact of restructuring charges adversely impacted the operating
margin percentage by approximately 0.6 percentage points and 1.3 percentage points in
the first nine months of 2007 and 2006, respectively. |
These factors were partially offset by:
|
|
|
Antitrust litigation charges of $125.3 million, primarily representing the estimated
costs associated with the resolution of indirect purchaser class actions in the States
of Wisconsin and California, which adversely impacted the operating margin percentage by
approximately 8.8 percentage points; and |
|
|
|
|
Increased unallocated corporate expenses, primarily due to amortization charges for
the below-market short-term lease on its former corporate headquarters building and
costs associated with a change in executive management, the aggregate amount of which
adversely impacted the operating margin by 0.8 percentage points. |
Net earnings for the first nine months of 2006 included after-tax income of $3.9 million from
discontinued operations, which resulted from the reversal of an accrual for an income tax-related
contingency, as discussed in the Third Quarter of 2007 compared with the Third Quarter of 2006
discussion above.
Basic and diluted earnings per share were $2.40 and $2.37, respectively, for the first nine months
of 2007, representing increases of 4.8 percent and 4.4 percent, respectively, from each of the
corresponding comparative measures in 2006. Average basic shares outstanding were lower in the
first nine months of 2007 than in the comparable prior year period, primarily as a result of share
repurchases, partially offset by the exercise of stock options. Average diluted shares outstanding
in the first nine months of 2007 were lower than those in the first nine months of 2006 due to the
impact of share repurchases and a lower level of dilutive options outstanding, partially offset by
the impact of a comparatively higher average stock price in 2007, which effectively increases
diluted shares outstanding.
29
Net Sales
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nine Months Ended |
|
|
Increase/ |
|
|
|
September 30, |
|
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
Amount |
|
|
% |
|
Net Sales by Segment: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Smokeless Tobacco |
|
$ |
1,150,518 |
|
|
$ |
1,142,646 |
|
|
$ |
7,872 |
|
|
|
0.7 |
|
Wine |
|
|
230,581 |
|
|
|
187,845 |
|
|
|
42,736 |
|
|
|
22.8 |
|
All Other Operations |
|
|
36,785 |
|
|
|
34,699 |
|
|
|
2,086 |
|
|
|
6.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Consolidated Net Sales |
|
$ |
1,417,884 |
|
|
$ |
1,365,190 |
|
|
$ |
52,694 |
|
|
|
3.9 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The increase in consolidated net sales for the first nine months of 2007, as compared to the first
nine months of 2006, was primarily due to the following:
|
|
|
Improved case volume for premium wine; |
|
|
|
|
Net sales growth in the Smokeless Tobacco segment, reflecting an increase in both
premium and overall net can volume for moist smokeless tobacco products ; and |
|
|
|
|
Improved international results. |
These factors were partially offset by:
|
|
|
Lower net revenue realization per unit in the Smokeless Tobacco segment. |
Segment Net Sales as a Percentage of Consolidated Net Sales
30
Gross Margin
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nine Months Ended |
|
|
Increase/ |
|
|
|
September 30, |
|
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
Amount |
|
|
% |
|
Gross Margin by Segment: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Smokeless Tobacco |
|
$ |
945,138 |
|
|
$ |
943,072 |
|
|
$ |
2,066 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
Wine |
|
|
80,575 |
|
|
|
67,471 |
|
|
|
13,104 |
|
|
|
19.4 |
|
All Other Operations |
|
|
23,200 |
|
|
|
22,168 |
|
|
|
1,032 |
|
|
|
4.7 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Consolidated Gross Margin |
|
$ |
1,048,913 |
|
|
$ |
1,032,711 |
|
|
$ |
16,202 |
|
|
|
1.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The consolidated gross margin increase in the first nine months of 2007, as compared to the first
nine months of 2006, was due to higher net sales in all segments, partially offset by higher cost
of products sold in all segments.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nine Months Ended |
|
|
|
|
|
|
September 30, |
|
|
Increase/ |
|
|
|
2007 |
|
|
2006 |
|
|
(Decrease) |
|
Gross Margin as a % of Net Sales by Segment: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Smokeless Tobacco |
|
|
82.1 |
% |
|
|
82.5 |
% |
|
|
(0.4 |
) |
Wine |
|
|
34.9 |
% |
|
|
35.9 |
% |
|
|
(1.0 |
) |
All Other Operations |
|
|
63.1 |
% |
|
|
63.9 |
% |
|
|
(0.8 |
) |
Consolidated |
|
|
74.0 |
% |
|
|
75.6 |
% |
|
|
(1.6 |
) |
The decline in the consolidated gross margin, as a percentage of net sales, was mainly due to the
following:
|
|
|
Higher case volume for wine, which sells at lower margins than moist smokeless tobacco products; |
|
|
|
|
Lower net revenue realization per unit in the Smokeless Tobacco segment; and |
|
|
|
|
Increased costs of products sold in the Smokeless Tobacco and Wine segments. |
Restructuring Charges
The Company recognized $9.1 million in restructuring charges in the first nine months of 2007
related to actions undertaken in connection with Project Momentum. Under this initiative, the
Company has now targeted at least $150 million in savings to be realized within the three years
following its implementation. The following table provides a summary of restructuring charges
incurred during the third quarter and first nine months of 2007, the cumulative charges incurred to
date and the total amount of charges expected to be incurred in connection with this initiative for
each major cost, by category:
31
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Restructuring |
|
|
Restructuring |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Charges Incurred |
|
|
Charges Incurred |
|
|
Cumulative |
|
|
|
|
|
|
for the Three |
|
|
for the Nine |
|
|
Charges Incurred |
|
|
Total Charges |
|
|
|
Months Ended |
|
|
Months Ended |
|
|
as of |
|
|
Expected to be |
|
|
|
September 30, 2007 |
|
|
September 30, 2007 |
|
|
September 30, 2007 |
|
|
Incurred(1) |
|
One-time termination benefits |
|
$ |
828 |
|
|
$ |
1,472 |
|
|
$ |
17,097 |
|
|
$ |
19,700-$21,200 |
|
Contract termination costs |
|
|
85 |
|
|
|
106 |
|
|
|
496 |
|
|
|
400 - 500 |
|
Other restructuring costs |
|
|
764 |
|
|
|
7,527 |
|
|
|
13,509 |
|
|
|
13,400 - 13,800 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
$ |
1,677 |
|
|
$ |
9,105 |
|
|
$ |
31,102 |
|
|
$ |
33,500-$35,500 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
The total cost of one-time termination benefits expected to be incurred under Project Momentum
reflects the initiatives overall anticipated elimination of approximately 10 percent of the
Companys salaried, full-time positions across various functions and operations, primarily at the
Companys corporate headquarters, as well as a reduction in the number of hourly positions within
the manufacturing operations. The majority of the total one-time termination benefit costs expected
to be incurred in connection with the first $100 million in targeted savings were recognized in
2006, with the remainder anticipated to be recognized by the end of 2007, while the charges to be
recognized in connection with the additional $50 million in targeted savings are expected to be
recognized through 2008, with the majority anticipated to be recorded by the end of 2007. The
majority of total contract termination costs expected to be incurred was recognized in 2006, with
the remainder anticipated to be recognized by the end of 2007. Approximately half of the total
other restructuring charges expected to be incurred were recognized in 2006, with the remainder
expected to be recognized in 2007 and 2008. While the Company believes that its estimates of total
restructuring charges expected to be incurred related to the aforementioned $150 million in savings
are appropriate and reasonable based upon the information available, actual results could differ
from such estimates. Total restructuring charges expected to be incurred currently represent the
Companys best estimates of the ranges of such charges; although there may be additional charges
recognized as additional actions are identified and finalized. As any additional actions are
approved and finalized and costs or charges are determined, the Company will file a Form 8-K under
Item 2.05 or report such costs or charges in its periodic reports, as appropriate. |
One-time termination benefits relate to severance-related costs and outplacement services for
employees terminated in connection with Project Momentum, as well as enhanced retirement benefits
for qualified individuals. Contract termination costs primarily relate to charges for the
termination of operating leases incurred in conjunction with the consolidation and relocation of
facilities. Other restructuring costs are mainly comprised of other costs directly related to the
implementation of Project Momentum, primarily professional fees, as well as asset impairment
charges and applicable costs incurred in connection with the relocation of the Companys
headquarters. Primarily all of the restructuring charges expected to be incurred will result in
cash expenditures, although approximately $4 million of such charges relate to pension enhancements
offered to applicable employees, all of which will be paid directly from the respective pension
plans assets. As of September 30, 2007, the liability balance associated with restructuring
charges amounted to $1.6 million. Refer to Item 1, Financial Statements Notes to Condensed
Consolidated Financial Statements Note 13, Restructuring, for further information regarding
accrued restructuring charges.
32
SMOKELESS TOBACCO SEGMENT
Third Quarter of 2007 compared with the Third Quarter of 2006
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
September 30, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
2007 |
|
2006 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
Net sales |
|
$ |
384,067 |
|
|
$ |
377,258 |
|
|
$ |
6,809 |
|
|
|
1.8 |
|
Restructuring charges |
|
|
403 |
|
|
|
15,445 |
|
|
|
(15,042 |
) |
|
|
(97.4 |
) |
Operating profit |
|
|
213,073 |
|
|
|
186,153 |
|
|
|
26,920 |
|
|
|
14.5 |
|
Net Sales
The increase in Smokeless Tobacco segment net sales in the third quarter of 2007, as compared to
the third quarter of 2006, reflects the favorable impact of an increase in both premium and overall
net can volume for moist smokeless tobacco products, partially offset by lower net revenue realized
per unit resulting from the following:
|
|
|
An unfavorable shift in overall product mix, with price-value products comprising a
larger percentage of total net can volume; |
|
|
|
|
An unfavorable shift in premium product mix, with lower net can volume for straight
stock premium products more than offset by an increase in net can volume for value pack
and promotional premium products, the nature of which are described below in further
detail; |
|
|
|
|
An unfavorable shift in price-value product mix; and |
|
|
|
|
Increased sales incentives, primarily retail buydowns and coupons. |
The Company believes that its price-focused initiatives, which relate primarily to its premium
brand loyalty initiative, along with the impact of its continued category growth efforts aimed at
converting adult smokers, continue to be successful in driving net can volume growth for its moist
smokeless tobacco products, particularly premium products.
Percentage of Smokeless Tobacco Segment Net Sales by Product Category
|
|
|
* |
|
Moist smokeless tobacco products |
|
** |
|
Includes dry snuff products and tobacco seeds |
33
Net sales results for both premium and price-value products include net can sales for standard
products, which consist of straight stock and, beginning in the first quarter of 2007, value pack
products, as well as pre-pack promotional products. Prior to 2007, only premium standard products
included value packs. Straight stock refers to single cans sold at wholesale list prices. Value
packs, which were introduced to more effectively compete for and retain value-conscious adult
consumers, are two-can packages sold year-round reflecting lower per-can wholesale list prices than
wholesale list prices for straight stock single-can products. Pre-pack promotions refer to those
products that are bundled and packaged in connection with a specific promotional pricing initiative
for a limited period of time.
MSTP Net Can Volume
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
September 30, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
2007 |
|
2006 |
|
Cans |
|
% |
Net Can Volume (in thousands): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Premium |
|
|
139,032 |
|
|
|
135,405 |
|
|
|
3,627 |
|
|
|
2.7 |
|
Price Value |
|
|
26,159 |
|
|
|
22,488 |
|
|
|
3,671 |
|
|
|
16.3 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
165,191 |
|
|
|
157,893 |
|
|
|
7,298 |
|
|
|
4.6 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Percentage of Total MSTP Net Can Volume by Category Segment
Overall net can volume for moist smokeless tobacco products increased 4.6 percent in the third
quarter of 2007, as compared to the similar 2006 period, reflecting the seventh consecutive quarter
of overall year-over-year growth and the fourth consecutive quarter of growth in excess of 2
percent. The increases for premium and price-value products each accounted for roughly half of the
overall third quarter volume increase, on an absolute can basis. The premium net can volume growth
of 2.7 percent in the third quarter of 2007 represents the fifth consecutive quarter of
year-over-year premium net can volume growth and reflects the effects of:
|
|
|
Continued spending on category growth initiatives; and |
|
|
|
|
Continued implementation of the Companys premium brand loyalty plan, which has narrowed
the price gaps between premium and price-value products on a state-by-state basis, in
varying degrees.
|
34
In addition, third quarter 2007 net can volume includes the favorable benefit of the comparative
timing of holiday shipments for Independence Day in 2007 versus 2006.
Net can volume for price-value products includes Red Seal and Husky. Net can volume for Red Seal
reflected high single digit growth in the third quarter of 2007, as compared to the third quarter
of 2006. The Company has implemented focused promotional spending related to Red Seal, which has
resulted in three consecutive quarters of net can volume growth during 2007. Net can volume for
Husky increased significantly in the third quarter of 2007, as compared to the corresponding prior
year period, reflecting a focus on expanding distribution. Both Red Seal and Husky benefited from
the 2007 introduction of value packs. It is important to note that the price-value volume growth
of 16.3 percent experienced in the third quarter of 2007 was concurrent with the aforementioned 2.7
percent premium volume growth, which is reflective of the Companys strategy to compete effectively
within every segment of the moist smokeless tobacco category.
The Company remains committed to the development of new products and packaging that cover both core
product launches and other possible innovations. During the first quarter of 2007, the Company
launched Skoal Citrus Blend in two forms, Long Cut and Pouches. In addition, during September 2007
the Company launched Cope, an all-new line of premium moist smokeless tobacco products that is
designed to make the Companys core brand, Copenhagen, more approachable for adult smokers. Net
can sales for the third quarter and first nine months of 2007 included approximately 23.2 million
cans and 67.5 million cans, respectively, of new products that were launched nationally within the
last three years, representing 14 percent and 13.8 percent, respectively, of the Companys total
moist smokeless tobacco net can volume for the respective periods. These new products included:
|
|
|
Three varieties of Skoal Long Cut* |
|
|
|
Copenhagen Long Cut Straight** |
|
|
|
|
Three varieties of Skoal Pouches* |
|
|
|
Two varieties of Husky Fine Cut |
|
|
|
|
Skoal Bandits (new and improved)** |
|
|
|
Various varieties of Husky Long Cut |
|
|
|
|
Three varieties of Cope Long Cut*** |
|
|
|
* |
|
Includes Citrus Blend variety, which was introduced during 2007. |
|
** |
|
Product introduced during 2006. |
|
*** |
|
Cope was introduced in September 2007 and is available in Straight, Smooth Hickory and Whiskey Blend. |
In connection with the Companys objective to grow the moist smokeless tobacco category by building
awareness and improving the social acceptability of smokeless tobacco products among adult
consumers, primarily smokers, the Companys premium portion pack products have demonstrated
continued growth. Such products are designed to differentiate the Companys premium brands from
competitive products, and to provide more approachable forms and flavors for adult smokers that
continue to switch to smokeless tobacco products. Net can volume for these portion pack products,
which include Copenhagen and Skoal Pouches, as well as new and improved Skoal Bandits, increased in
the third quarter of 2007, as compared to the corresponding prior year period, and represented 9.4
percent of the Companys premium net can volume.
The Company began limited marketing of a new product, Skoal Dry, in two lead markets in July 2006.
In keeping with the objective to improve smokeless tobaccos social acceptability, this product,
also aimed at converting adult smokers, is designed to be spit-free. The Company continues to
evaluate the results of this initiative.
35
Cost of Products Sold
Costs of products sold for the third quarter of 2007 increased as compared to the corresponding
period of 2006, as the favorable impact of reduced manufacturing costs resulting from Project
Momentum initiatives were more than offset by the overall increased net can volume of moist
smokeless tobacco products and higher material costs.
Gross Margin
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
September 30, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
2007 |
|
2006 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
Gross Margin |
|
$ |
315,199 |
|
|
$ |
311,053 |
|
|
$ |
4,146 |
|
|
|
1.3 |
|
|
Gross Margin as % of Net Sales |
|
|
82.1 |
% |
|
|
82.5 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The gross margin increase in the third quarter of 2007, compared to the third quarter of 2006, was
primarily due to the aforementioned increase in net sales, partially offset by higher cost of
products sold. The gross margin, as a percentage of net sales, declined by 0.4 percentage points in
the third quarter of 2007, as compared to the corresponding period of 2006, primarily as a result
of the lower net revenue realized per unit previously discussed in the Net Sales section above.
SA&A Expenses
SA&A expenses decreased 9.9 percent in the third quarter of 2007 to $98.6 million, compared to
$109.5 million in the third quarter of 2006, reflecting overall improvements in cost management as
a result of Project Momentum and other favorable spending, specifically:
|
|
|
Lower salaries and related costs associated with certain positions eliminated in the
restructuring; |
|
|
|
|
Decreased print advertising costs, due to differences in timing of advertising relating
to new product introductions in 2006 versus 2007; |
|
|
|
|
Reduced costs for trade promotional materials; |
|
|
|
|
Lower costs associated with retail shelving systems used to promote the moist smokeless
tobacco categorys products; |
|
|
|
|
The absence of costs incurred in the third quarter of 2006 in connection with efforts to
defeat a ballot initiative in California; |
|
|
|
|
Lower legal spending; |
|
|
|
|
Decreased professional fees; and, |
|
|
|
|
A decrease in other administrative expenses. |
These decreases were partially offset by:
|
|
|
Higher direct marketing spending, primarily related to the Companys premium
brandbuilding and category growth initiatives; |
|
|
|
|
Rent expense incurred in 2007 in connection with the Companys new headquarters lease; |
|
|
|
|
Higher point-of-sale advertising costs related to the introduction of new Cope in
September 2007; and |
|
|
|
|
Increased one-on-one marketing costs. |
36
The Companys SA&A expenses include legal expenses, which incorporate, among other things, costs of
administering and litigating product liability claims. For the quarters ended September 30, 2007
and 2006, outside legal fees and other internal and external costs incurred in connection with
administering and litigating product liability claims were $3.4 million and $3.8 million,
respectively. These costs reflect a number of factors, including the number of claims, and the
legal and regulatory environments affecting the Companys products. The Company expects these
factors to be the primary influence on its future costs of administering and litigating product
liability claims. The Company does not expect these costs to increase significantly in the future;
however, it is possible that adverse changes in the aforementioned factors could have a material
adverse effect on such costs, as well as on results of operations and cash flows in the periods
such costs are incurred.
Antitrust Litigation
The third quarter of 2007 reflects an antitrust litigation charge of $3.2 million related to a
ruling on a motion filed with respect to the settlement of the Kansas and New York actions seeking
additional plaintiffs attorneys fees and expenses, plus interest.
Restructuring Charges
Smokeless Tobacco segment results for the three months ended, September 30, 2007, reflect $0.4
million of the restructuring charges discussed in the Consolidated Results section above.
First Nine Months of 2007 compared with the First Nine Months of 2006
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nine Months Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
September 30, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
2007 |
|
2006 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
Net sales |
|
$ |
1,150,518 |
|
|
$ |
1,142,646 |
|
|
$ |
7,872 |
|
|
|
0.7 |
|
Restructuring charges |
|
|
6,889 |
|
|
|
15,445 |
|
|
|
(8,556 |
) |
|
|
(55.4 |
) |
Antitrust litigation |
|
|
125,258 |
|
|
|
1,350 |
|
|
|
123,908 |
|
|
|
|
|
Operating profit |
|
|
507,821 |
|
|
|
597,295 |
|
|
|
(89,474 |
) |
|
|
(15.0 |
) |
Net Sales
The increase in Smokeless Tobacco segment net sales in the first nine months of 2007, as compared
to the first nine months of 2006, reflects the favorable impact of an increase in both premium and
overall net can volume for moist smokeless tobacco products, partially offset by lower net revenue
realized per unit resulting from the following:
|
|
|
An unfavorable shift in premium product mix, with lower net can volume for straight
stock premium products more than offset by an increase in net can volume for value pack
and promotional premium products; |
|
|
|
|
An unfavorable shift in price-value product mix; and |
|
|
|
|
Increased sales incentives, primarily retail buydowns. |
As noted in the discussion of quarterly results above, the Company believes that its price-focused
initiatives continue to be successful in driving net can volume growth for its moist smokeless
tobacco products, particularly premium products. The Company also believes that the success is
further illustrated by the
37
achievement of net sales growth despite elevated gasoline prices during 2007 and the comparative impact of the initial implementation of the premium loyalty initiative in
2006. The Company believes that can sales of its smokeless tobacco products, primarily premium
products, can be affected by fluctuations in gasoline prices. The impact of such fluctuations may be exacerbated due to the fact that a significant portion of
the Companys net can volume is sold at outlets that also sell gasoline.
Percentage of Smokeless Tobacco Segment Net Sales by Product Category
|
|
|
* |
|
Moist smokeless tobacco products |
|
** |
|
Includes dry snuff products and tobacco seeds |
MSTP Net Can Volume
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nine Months Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
September 30, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
2007 |
|
2006 |
|
Cans |
|
% |
Net Can Volume (in thousands): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Premium |
|
|
414,941 |
|
|
|
407,367 |
|
|
|
7,574 |
|
|
|
1.9 |
|
Price Value |
|
|
75,300 |
|
|
|
67,948 |
|
|
|
7,352 |
|
|
|
10.8 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
490,241 |
|
|
|
475,315 |
|
|
|
14,926 |
|
|
|
3.1 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Percentage of Total MSTP Net Can Volume by Category Segment
38
The increases in overall and premium net can volume for moist smokeless tobacco products of 3.1
percent and 1.9 percent, respectively, in the first nine months of 2007, as compared to the similar
2006 period, reflect the positive impact of the continued implementation of the Companys premium
brand loyalty initiative, as well as continued spending on category growth initiatives. The net
can volume increase of 10.8 percent for price-value products in the first nine months of 2007, as
compared to the first nine months of 2006, was mainly driven by substantially higher net can volume for Husky, reflecting a focus on expanding
distribution, with a moderate increase for Red Seal, reflecting the impact of increased promotional
spending on the brand that was implemented beginning in the first quarter of 2007. Both Red Seal
and Husky benefited from the introduction of value packs in 2007.
The following provides information from the Companys Retail Account Data Share & Volume Tracking
System (RAD-SVT) for the 26-week period ended September 8, 2007, as provided by Management
Science Associates, Inc., which measures shipments from wholesale to retail.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Percentage Point |
|
|
Can-Volume % Change |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Increase/(Decrease) |
|
|
from Prior Year |
|
|
% |
|
from Prior Year |
|
|
Period |
|
|
Share |
|
Period |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Category Data: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Moist Smokeless Category |
|
|
6.7 |
% |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
|
|
N/A |
|
Total Premium Segment |
|
|
1.3 |
% |
|
|
|
56.1 |
%* |
|
|
(3.0 |
) |
Total Value Segments |
|
|
14.5 |
% |
|
|
|
43.8 |
%* |
|
|
3.0 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Company Data: |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Moist Smokeless Category |
|
|
3.5 |
% |
|
|
|
61.0 |
% |
|
|
(1.9 |
) |
Total Premium Segment |
|
|
2.1 |
% |
|
|
|
91.1 |
% |
|
|
0.7 |
|
Total Value Segments |
|
|
11.3 |
% |
|
|
|
22.7 |
% |
|
|
(0.6 |
) |
|
|
|
* |
|
Amounts reported do not add to 100 percent, as this table does not reflect the herbal segment of
the total moist smokeless category. |
As reflected in such data, for the 26 weeks ended September 8, 2007, the total moist smokeless
tobacco category grew 6.7 percent, slightly higher than the Companys previously reported estimate
of 5 to 6 percent for 2007. Volume for the Companys moist smokeless tobacco products increased
3.5 percent and its share of the total category was 61 percent during the period. While this share
reflects a decline of 1.9 percentage points from the prior year period, it is essentially flat
versus the 61.2 percent share for the 26-week period ended June 16, 2007, reported in the Companys
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2007. Volume for the Companys premium
brands grew 2.1 percent, outpacing the overall premium segment growth of 1.3 percent from the prior
year period, with net can volume for the Companys premium products growing in 36 states,
representing approximately 77 percent of its premium net can volume. The Companys value products
experienced volume growth of 11.3 percent, which was below the overall value segments growth of
14.5 percent during the period.
RAD-SVT information is provided as an indication of current domestic moist smokeless tobacco trends
from wholesale to retail and is not intended as a basis for measuring the Companys financial
performance. This information can vary significantly from the Companys actual results due to the
fact that the Company reports net shipments to wholesale, while RAD-SVT measures shipments from
wholesale to retail. In addition, differences in the time periods measured, as well as differences
as a result of new product introductions and
39
promotions, affect comparisons of the Companys actual results to those from RAD-SVT. The Company believes the difference in trend between RAD-SVT and
its own net shipments is due to such factors. Furthermore, Management Science Associates, Inc.
periodically reviews and adjusts RAD-SVT information, in order to improve the overall accuracy of
the information for comparative and analytical purposes, by incorporating refinements to the
extrapolation methodology used to project data from a statistically representative sample.
Adjustments are typically made for static store counts and new reporting customers.
Cost of Products Sold
Costs of products sold for the first nine months of 2007 increased as compared to the first nine
months of 2006, primarily as a result of the following:
|
|
|
The impact of increased net can volume for moist smokeless tobacco products; |
|
|
|
|
Higher material costs; |
|
|
|
|
A charge related to the write-off of packaging material; and |
|
|
|
|
Charges related to the Copenhagen Rewards customer loyalty program. |
These increases were partially offset by:
|
|
|
The favorable impact of reduced manufacturing costs resulting from Project Momentum
initiatives. |
Gross Margin
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nine Months Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
September 30, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
2007 |
|
2006 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
Gross Margin |
|
$ |
945,138 |
|
|
$ |
943,072 |
|
|
$ |
2,066 |
|
|
|
0.2 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross Margin as % of Net Sales |
|
|
82.1 |
% |
|
|
82.5 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross margin increased in the first nine months of 2007, compared to the first nine months of 2006,
primarily as a result of the higher net sales, partially offset by the aforementioned cost of
products sold variance. The gross margin, as a percentage of net sales, declined by 0.4 percentage
points in the first nine months of 2007, as compared to the corresponding period of 2006, as a
result of these factors and a shift in product mix, which included higher net can volume for both
premium and price-value value pack products and increased premium promotional net can volume, along
with lower net can volume for straight stock premium products.
40
SA&A Expenses
SA&A expenses decreased 7.2 percent in the first nine months of 2007 to $305.2 million, compared to
$329 million in the first nine months of 2006, reflecting overall improvements in cost management
as a result of Project Momentum and other favorable spending, specifically:
|
|
|
Lower salaries and related costs, primarily associated with certain positions eliminated
in the restructuring; |
|
|
|
|
Lower consulting fees; |
|
|
|
|
Lower costs associated with retail shelving systems used to promote the moist smokeless
tobacco categorys products; |
|
|
|
|
Decreased print advertising costs due to differences in timing of advertising relating
to new product introductions in 2006 versus 2007; |
|
|
|
|
Reduced material costs related to trade promotional materials; |
|
|
|
|
The absence of costs incurred in the third quarter of 2006 in connection with efforts to
defeat a ballot initiative in California; |
|
|
|
|
A decrease in costs associated with samples, due to a decline in sample shipments; and |
|
|
|
|
A decrease in other administrative expenses. |
These decreases were partially offset by:
|
|
|
Increased direct marketing spending, primarily related to the Companys premium
brandbuilding and category growth initiatives; |
|
|
|
|
Higher legal-related costs; |
|
|
|
|
Rent expense incurred in 2007 in connection with the Companys new headquarters lease; |
|
|
|
|
Increased one-on-one marketing costs; and |
|
|
|
|
Higher point-of-sale advertising, primarily related to the introduction of Cope. |
For the nine months ended September 30, 2007 and 2006, outside legal fees and other internal and
external costs incurred in connection with administering and litigating product liability claims,
which are reflected within the segments SA&A expenses, were $10.4 million and $10.9 million,
respectively.
Antitrust Litigation
The first nine months of 2007 reflect the impact of $125.3 million in antitrust litigation charges,
of which $122.1 million relates to a pre-tax charge the Company recognized in the first quarter,
representing the estimated costs to be incurred in connection with the resolution of the Companys
two significant remaining indirect purchaser class actions. This charge is comprised of the
following:
|
|
|
A $93.6 million pre-tax charge related to a May 2007 settlement, subject to court
approval, reached in the State of California action as a result of court-ordered mediation.
This charge brings the total recognized liability for the California action to $96
million, which reflects the cost of cash payments to be made to the benefit of class
members, as well as plaintiffs attorneys fees and other administrative costs of the
settlement. |
|
|
|
|
A $28.5 million charge related to a settlement, subject to court approval, reached in
the State of Wisconsin action during a court-ordered mediation session that was held in
April 2007. This charge reflects costs attributable to coupons, which will be distributed
to consumers, and will be redeemable, over the next several years, on future purchases of
the Companys moist smokeless tobacco products. Also reflected in this charge are
plaintiffs attorneys fees and other administrative costs of the settlement. |
41
In addition, an antitrust litigation charge of $3.2 million was recognized in the third quarter of
2007 related to a ruling on a motion filed with respect to the settlement of the Kansas and New
York actions seeking additional plaintiffs attorneys fees and expenses, plus interest. In the
first nine months of 2006, the Company recorded a $1.4 million pre-tax charge reflecting a change in the estimated redemption rate
for coupons in conjunction with the resolution of certain states indirect purchaser antitrust
actions (see Item 1, Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements Note 14,
Contingencies, for additional details regarding the Companys antitrust litigation).
Restructuring Charges
Smokeless Tobacco segment results for the nine months ended September 30, 2007 and 2006 reflect
$6.9 million and $15.4 million, respectively, of the restructuring charges discussed in the
Consolidated Results section above.
WINE SEGMENT
Third Quarter of 2007 compared with the Third Quarter of 2006
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
September 30, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
2007 |
|
2006 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
Net sales |
|
$ |
82,286 |
|
|
$ |
69,536 |
|
|
$ |
12,750 |
|
|
|
18.3 |
|
Operating profit |
|
|
12,674 |
|
|
|
9,448 |
|
|
|
3,226 |
|
|
|
34.1 |
|
Net Sales
The increase in Wine segment net sales for the third quarter of 2007, as compared to the
corresponding 2006 period, was primarily due to a 12.6 percent increase in premium case volume.
These favorable net sales results reflect the following factors:
|
|
|
The broadening of the distribution of the Companys wines as a direct result of
continued efforts to increase distribution through the expansion of its sales force; |
|
|
|
|
The incremental revenue contributed by the Stags Leap labels, which were added to the
Companys portfolio in September 2007 upon completion of the Stags Leap acquisition; and |
|
|
|
|
The impact of favorable third party acclaim and product ratings. |
42
Case Volume
Percentage of Total Case Volume by Brand
Chateau Ste. Michelle and Columbia Crest, the Companys two leading wine brands, accounted for 68.6
percent of total premium case volume in the third quarter of 2007, as compared to 71.2 percent in
the corresponding 2006 period. Case volume for the third quarter of 2007 reflected the following:
|
|
|
Continued strong case volume for Chateau Ste. Michelle, which increased 19.9 percent as
compared to the third quarter of 2006, with the increase primarily due to higher case
volume for white varietals; |
|
|
|
|
An overall decline in Columbia Crest case volume of 1.2 percent in the third quarter of
2007, as compared to the corresponding 2006 period, primarily due to lower case volume for
Grand Estates Merlot. Grand Estates Merlot had experienced strong case volume in the prior
year period due to the introduction of the 2003 vintage, which received favorable acclaim.
The decline in Grand Estates Merlot case volume in 2007 was partially offset by higher case
volume for the Two Vines red varietals and all other Grand Estates varietals; |
|
|
|
|
Increased case volume for Red Diamond and 14 Hands, two of the Companys newer labels;
and |
|
|
|
|
Increased case volume for Erath and Stags Leap. |
Cost of Products Sold
Segment cost of products sold in the third quarter of 2007 increased 16.2 percent from the same
prior year period, which was primarily attributable to the overall increased case volume and the
impact of higher costs per case.
43
Gross Margin
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
September 30, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
2007 |
|
2006 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
Gross Margin |
|
$ |
29,626 |
|
|
$ |
24,210 |
|
|
$ |
5,416 |
|
|
|
22.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross Margin as % of Net Sales |
|
|
36.0 |
% |
|
|
34.8 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The increase in gross margin in the third quarter of 2007, versus the third quarter of 2006, was
due to the increase in net sales, partially offset by the increased cost of products sold in the
third quarter of 2007. The increase in gross margin, as a percentage of net sales, was mainly due
to the addition of the Stags Leap brands, the majority of which generate a higher gross margin
than other varietals produced by the Company.
SA&A Expenses
SA&A expenses of $17 million in the third quarter of 2007 were 17.3 percent higher than the $14.5
million in such expenses recognized in the corresponding prior year period, reflecting the
following:
|
|
|
Higher salaries and related costs, due to the sales force expansion associated with
broadening the distribution of the Companys wines throughout the domestic market; |
|
|
|
|
Higher media advertising and trade promotional expenses; and |
|
|
|
|
Higher administrative costs, particularly related to the distribution of Antinori
products. |
These increases were partially offset by:
|
|
|
Lower point-of-sale advertising due to the comparative timing of costs incurred in
connection with fourth quarter holiday programs. |
First Nine Months of 2007 compared with the First Nine Months of 2006
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nine Months Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
September 30, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
2007 |
|
2006 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
Net sales |
|
$ |
230,581 |
|
|
$ |
187,845 |
|
|
$ |
42,736 |
|
|
|
22.8 |
|
Operating profit |
|
|
35,053 |
|
|
|
27,371 |
|
|
|
7,682 |
|
|
|
28.1 |
|
Net Sales
The increase in Wine segment net sales for the first nine months of 2007, as compared to the first
nine months of 2006, was primarily due to a 15.4 percent increase in premium case volume. These
favorable net sales results reflect the following factors:
|
|
|
The incremental impact of the Antinori and Erath labels, which were added in the second
half of 2006; |
|
|
|
|
Expanded distribution of the Companys wines; and |
|
|
|
|
Favorable third party acclaim and product ratings, as the Company has received a total
of 79 ratings of 90+ in 2007 from various national wine publications, compared to 62 in the
prior year. |
44
Case Volume
Percentage of Total Case Volume by Brand
Chateau Ste. Michelle and Columbia Crest accounted for 70 percent of total premium case volume in
the first nine months of 2007, as compared to 74 percent for the corresponding 2006 period.
Case volume for the first nine months of 2007 reflected the following:
|
|
|
A 15.3 percent increase in case volume for Chateau Ste. Michelle, as compared to the
corresponding 2006 period, primarily due to higher case volume for white varietals,
particularly Riesling and Chardonnay, and to a lesser extent certain red varietals; |
|
|
|
|
An increase of 4.2 percent in Columbia Crest case volume, as compared to the first nine
months of 2006, primarily due to higher case volume for Two Vines red varietals and Grand
Estates Cabernet Sauvignon, partially offset by lower case volume for Two Vines white
varietals and Grand Estates Merlot; |
|
|
|
|
Increased case volume for the Antinori and Erath brands, which the Company added to its
portfolio in the second half of 2006. Case volume for these brands accounted for
approximately 32 percent (or 5 percentage points) of the overall 15.4 percent case volume
increase; |
|
|
|
|
Increased case volume for Red Diamond and 14 Hands, two of the Companys newer labels;
and |
|
|
|
|
Lower case volume for Domaine Ste. Michelle. |
Cost of Products Sold
Segment cost of products sold in the first nine months of 2007 increased 24.6 percent from the same
prior year period, which was primarily attributable to the costs associated with Antinori products,
as well as overall increased case volume and the impact of higher costs per case.
45
Gross Margin
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nine Months Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
September 30, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
2007 |
|
2006 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
Gross Margin |
|
$ |
80,575 |
|
|
$ |
67,471 |
|
|
$ |
13,104 |
|
|
|
19.4 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Gross Margin as % of Net Sales |
|
|
34.9 |
% |
|
|
35.9 |
% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The increase in gross margin in the first nine months of 2007, versus the first nine months of
2006, was due to the increase in net sales, partially offset by the increased cost of products
sold. The decrease in gross margin, as a percentage of net sales, was mainly due to the additional
case costs and case sales associated with the distribution of Antinori brands, which generate a
lower gross margin than varietals produced by the Company.
SA&A Expenses
SA&A expenses of $45.5 million in the first nine months of 2007 were 14.4 percent higher than the
$39.8 million of such expenses recognized in the corresponding prior year period, reflecting the
following:
|
|
|
Higher salaries and related costs, due to the continued expansion of the sales force; |
|
|
|
|
Higher advertising and promotional expenses, as the prior year reflected the favorable
impact of the cooperative advertising and promotional arrangement for Antinori wines; |
|
|
|
|
Increased print advertising expenses; |
|
|
|
|
Higher administrative costs, particularly related to the distribution of Antinori
products; and |
|
|
|
|
A lower pre-tax gain associated with the sale of non-strategic winery properties, as the
current year reflects a $2 million pre-tax gain related to the sale of a property located
in Washington, as compared to a $2.5 million pre-tax gain reflected in the prior year
related to the sale of a property located in California. |
These increases were partially offset by:
|
|
|
Lower point-of-sale advertising expenses, primarily due to comparative timing; and, |
|
|
|
|
Lower legal costs and consulting fees. |
46
ALL OTHER OPERATIONS
Third Quarter of 2007 compared with the Third Quarter of 2006
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Three Months Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
September 30, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
2007 |
|
2006 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
Net sales |
|
$ |
13,259 |
|
|
$ |
11,855 |
|
|
$ |
1,404 |
|
|
|
11.8 |
|
Operating profit |
|
|
4,195 |
|
|
|
4,336 |
|
|
|
(141 |
) |
|
|
(3.3 |
) |
Net sales for All Other Operations increased in the third quarter of 2007, as compared to the third
quarter of 2006, primarily due to higher net can volume for moist smokeless tobacco products sold
by the Companys international operations in Canada, as well as the favorable impact of foreign
exchange rates, partially offset by a decline in net can volume in the Companys other
international markets. Foreign exchange rates had an unfavorable impact on costs of products sold
during the third quarter of 2007, as compared to the corresponding 2006 period. Gross margin, as a
percentage of net sales, decreased in the third quarter of 2007 to 62.7 percent, from 63.5 percent
in 2006, primarily due to higher unit costs. Operating profit for All Other Operations represented
31.6 percent of net sales in the third quarter of 2007, as compared to 36.6 percent in the third
quarter of 2006. The decrease in operating profit and operating margin was primarily due to $0.6
million of restructuring charges incurred in connection with Project Momentum, which reduced the
operating margin percentage by 4.6 percentage points. The impact of restructuring charges incurred
during the third quarter of 2007 was partially offset by the aforementioned increase in net sales.
First Nine Months of 2007 compared with the First Nine Months of 2006
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nine Months Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
September 30, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
2007 |
|
2006 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
Net sales |
|
$ |
36,785 |
|
|
$ |
34,699 |
|
|
$ |
2,086 |
|
|
|
6.0 |
|
Operating profit |
|
|
13,136 |
|
|
|
11,955 |
|
|
|
1,181 |
|
|
|
9.9 |
|
In the first nine months of 2007, net sales for All Other Operations increased, as compared to the
first nine months of 2006, mainly resulting from higher net can volume for moist smokeless tobacco
products sold by the Companys international operations in Canada, as well as the favorable impact
of foreign exchange rates, partially offset by a decline in net can volume in the Companys other
international markets. For the first nine months of 2007, foreign exchange rates had an
unfavorable impact on costs of products sold, as compared to the corresponding prior year period.
The gross margin percentage decreased in the first nine months of 2007 to 63.1 percent, from 63.9
percent in the similar 2006 period, primarily due to higher unit costs. Operating profit for All
Other Operations represented 35.7 percent of net sales in the first nine months of 2007, as
compared to 34.5 percent in the first nine months of 2006. Lower SA&A expenses were the main
driver of the increases in both operating profit and operating margin during the period. Operating
profit reflected restructuring charges of $0.6 million and $0.1 million incurred in connection with
Project Momentum during the nine months ended September 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively, which
negatively impacted the respective operating margin percentages by 1.7 percentage points and 0.4
percentage points.
47
UNALLOCATED CORPORATE
Third Quarter of 2007 compared with the Third Quarter of 2006
Administrative Expenses
Unallocated corporate administrative expenses increased 75 percent to $10.9 million in the third
quarter of 2007, as compared to $6.2 million in the third quarter of 2006, reflecting the
following:
|
|
|
The amortization of imputed rent related to the below-market short-term lease associated
with the Companys relocation of its corporate headquarters, which accounted for 46.4
percentage points of the overall increase; and |
|
|
|
|
Higher professional fees. |
Restructuring Charges
Unallocated restructuring charges incurred in connection with Project Momentum amounted to $0.7
million in the third quarter of 2007, as compared to $1.6 million in the third quarter of 2006.
The unallocated restructuring charges recognized in both periods consisted of one-time termination
benefit charges and professional fees directly related to the implementation of Project Momentum.
In addition, the restructuring charges recognized during the third quarter of 2007 also included
asset impairment charges and applicable costs incurred in connection with the relocation of the
Companys headquarters.
Interest Expense
Net interest expense decreased $0.6 million, or 6.5 percent, in the third quarter of 2007, as
compared to the third quarter of 2006, primarily due to higher income from cash equivalent and
short-term investments, which resulted from higher average levels of investments in the current
year.
Income Tax Expense
The Company recorded income tax expense on earnings from continuing operations of $75.5 million in
the third quarter of 2007 compared to $68 million in the third quarter of 2006. The Companys
effective tax rate on earnings from continuing operations was 36.1 percent in the third quarter of
2007, compared to 37.3 percent in the corresponding 2006 period. The decrease in the effective tax
rate for the third quarter of 2007 was primarily due to the scheduled statutory increase in 2007
for the deduction available for qualified domestic production activities.
48
First Nine Months of 2007 compared with the First Nine Months of 2006
Administrative Expenses
Unallocated corporate administrative expenses increased 70.6 percent to $35.7 million in the first
nine months of 2007, as compared to $21 million in the first nine months of 2006, reflecting the
following:
|
|
|
Charges of $6 million associated with a change in executive management, which accounted
for 28.4 percentage points of the overall increase; |
|
|
|
|
The amortization of imputed rent for the below-market short-term headquarters lease,
which accounted for 32.2 percentage points of the overall increase; |
|
|
|
|
Higher professional fees; and |
|
|
|
|
Higher legal expenses. |
Restructuring Charges
Unallocated restructuring charges incurred in connection with Project Momentum amounted to
approximately $1.6 million in each of the nine month periods ended September 30, 2007 and 2006,
respectively. The unallocated restructuring charges recognized in both periods consisted of
one-time termination benefit charges and professional fees directly related to the implementation
of Project Momentum. In addition, the restructuring charges recognized during the third quarter of
2007 also included asset impairment charges and applicable costs incurred in connection with the
relocation of the Companys headquarters.
Interest Expense
Net interest expense decreased $4.8 million, or 14.8 percent, in the first nine months of 2007, as
compared to the first nine months of 2006, primarily due to higher income from cash equivalent and
short-term investments, which resulted from higher average levels of investments and higher
interest rates.
Income Tax Expense
The Company recorded income tax expense on earnings from continuing operations of $215.3 million in
the first nine months of 2007 compared to $217.1 million in the first nine months of 2006. Income
tax expense in the first nine months of 2007 reflects the impact of antitrust litigation charges,
as well as the gain recognized in connection with the sale of the Companys corporate headquarters
building. The Companys effective tax rate on earnings from continuing operations was 36.1 percent
in the first nine months of 2007, compared to 37.3 percent in the first nine months of 2006. The
decrease in the effective tax rate for the first nine months of 2007, as compared to the
corresponding period of 2006, was primarily due to the scheduled statutory increase in 2007 for the
deduction available for qualified domestic production activities.
49
OUTLOOK
SMOKELESS TOBACCO SEGMENT
Category Growth
The Company remains committed to its category growth initiatives, which continue to be successful,
demonstrated by a continued strong growth rate through the first nine months of 2007, according to
RAD-SVT data. According to data from ACNielsen, moist smokeless tobacco is one of the fastest
growing consumer packaged goods categories at retail. In addition, consumer research indicates in
2006, the number of new adult consumers entering the moist smokeless tobacco category continued to
increase, bringing the total adult consumer base to over 6 million from 4.7 million in 2001, a
majority of which entered in the premium segment. In light of the success of the Companys category
growth initiatives achieved to date, as well as the favorable impact to the category from the
Companys premium brand loyalty initiative (discussed further below), going forward the Company
expects that these initiatives will continue to expand the adult consumer base and attract new
adult consumers, primarily smokers, to the category and to premium brands. The Company will
continue to utilize its direct mail marketing program to promote the discreetness and convenience
of smokeless tobacco relative to cigarettes to adult smokers, as well as product innovation, which
the Company believes have both contributed to category growth in the last few years. The category
growth of 6.7 percent reported in the most recent 26-week RAD-SVT period reflects a modest decrease
from the 7.2 percent growth rate that the Company reported in its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for
the period ended June 30, 2007, but slightly higher than our previously reported full-year
projected range of 5 percent to 6 percent. The Company now expects category growth of at least 6
percent for the full year in 2007, given the level of growth seen in the first nine months of the
year.
Premium Brand Loyalty
As the Company has previously communicated, it is expanding upon its premium brand loyalty
initiative during 2007, with a focus on growth of underlying premium net can volume, and, as
demonstrated by the results for the first nine months of 2007, both volume trends and category
share performance have improved. The Company expects to continue to see moderated category share
loss over the remainder of 2007, which, when coupled with the aforementioned anticipated category
growth rates, should enable it to deliver solid premium volume growth for the year. With respect
to premium net can volume, the Company expects to benefit from the presence of an extra billing day
in the fourth quarter of 2007, which essentially equates to one extra week of revenue. Given the
continued strong premium net can volume trends and moist smokeless tobacco category growth during
the third quarter of 2007, the Company now anticipates premium net can volume growth of
approximately 2 percent for the year, excluding the impact of the extra billing day, which is in
line with the trends seen so far in 2007.
State Excise Taxes
The Company intends to continue its efforts to promote tax equity in all of the states that
currently impose excise taxes on smokeless tobacco products expressed as a percentage of the
wholesale price (ad valorem) rather than on the basis of weight. In October 2007, the State of
Wisconsin passed legislation to convert to a tax based on weight beginning in 2008. Wisconsin is
the third state to approve conversion to a weight-based tax during 2007, and, upon the effective
date of the change, will bring the total number of tax equity states to 13, along with the federal
government. The Company believes that ad valorem excise taxes on smokeless tobacco products
artificially drive consumer behavior and create market distortions by providing a tax
50
preference for lower priced products. Weight-based excise taxes or specific taxes on smokeless tobacco
products would, in the Companys opinion, allow products to compete fairly in the marketplace on
the basis of price and product attributes, not the relative tax burden. The Company believes its support of
weight-based state excise taxes on smokeless tobacco products is in the best interest of the
Company, its wholesaler customers, retailers, adult consumers of the Companys moist smokeless
tobacco products and the state governments.
Project Momentum Cost Savings Initiative
During 2007, the first full year of Project Momentums implementation, operating results reflect
the positive contribution realized from this initiative. Given the progress achieved to date, and
the continued focus on identifying operational efficiencies and cost reductions, the Company
remains confident that it will realize its $150 million in targeted savings over the planned
three-year period. These cost savings are expected to create additional resources for the
Companys growth, as well as additional flexibility in the increasingly competitive smokeless
tobacco category. The total targeted savings of at least $150 million does not include the impact
of the sale of the Companys corporate headquarters building in the first quarter of 2007, which
generated a pre-tax gain of approximately $105 million, and net cash proceeds of approximately $85
million.
Antitrust Litigation
The Company is named as a defendant in certain actions brought by indirect purchasers (consumers
and retailers) in several states. As noted in the discussion of results of operations, the Company
recognized a charge of $122.1 million during the first nine months of 2007 related to the estimated
cost of the settlements in the California and Wisconsin class actions, which are subject to court
approval. These settlements resolve what the Company believes are its two significant remaining
indirect purchaser antitrust cases (see Item 1, Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements Note 14, Contingencies, for additional details regarding the Companys antitrust
litigation).
WINE SEGMENT
The Wine segment forecasts continued strong growth of more than 20 percent for the full year of
2007 for both net sales and operating profit. Favorable acclaim received for products late in 2006
and thus far in 2007 are expected to continue to benefit net sales during the remainder of the
year. In addition, net sales for the Wine segment are expected to continue to be favorably
impacted by the strategic alliance with Antinori, although the impact to the remainder of 2007 is
expected to be less significant than the impact realized in the first half of 2007. This is due to
the fact that comparisons have begun to match up against the start of the Companys distribution of
the Antinori brands, which began in the second half of 2006. Net sales are also expected to
continue to be favorably impacted by incremental sales of Erath wines, primarily Pinot Noir from
Oregon. In addition, the recently completed Stags Leap acquisition is expected to contribute to
Wine segment fourth quarter net sales and operating profit growth, as the Company continues its
integration of the iconic Napa Valley-based winerys prestigious portfolio.
51
CONSOLIDATED
As a result of continued strong performance in the third quarter of 2007, the Company is now
targeting full-year 2007 diluted earnings per share of $3.27, with a range from $3.25 to $3.29,
which includes the net unfavorable impact of $0.15 per diluted share related to the following:
|
|
|
The unfavorable impact of $0.50 per diluted share related to antitrust litigation
charges recognized in the first nine months of 2007; |
|
|
|
|
The unfavorable impact of $0.04 per diluted share related to the total restructuring
charges expected to be recognized in 2007 related to Project Momentum; and |
|
|
|
|
The favorable impact of $0.39 per diluted share related to the sale of the Companys
corporate headquarters building. |
As noted last quarter, as a result of the cost savings realized to date, as well as the proceeds
received from the sale of the Companys former corporate headquarters building, the Company has
seen a significant increase in its cash and short-term investments. Therefore, in an effort to
provide enhanced value to shareholders, the Company increased its spending in connection with its
program to repurchase outstanding shares of its common stock in 2007 from $200 million to $300
million. During the third quarter of 2007 the Company spent the remaining $80 million of the
incremental $100 million, bringing the total amount spent in connection with its share repurchase
program for the first nine months of 2007 to $250 million. The Company continually evaluates the
optimal use of its resources, including the appropriateness of returning cash to stockholders
through share repurchases. While the Company expects to spend at least $50 million on share
repurchases for the remainder of 2007, it may make additional
repurchases beyond its full-year $300 million target, depending upon market and other conditions
during this period. However, any additional share repurchases are not expected to have a material
impact on the full-year 2007 diluted earnings per share target or range. Over the long-term, the
Companys goal is to provide an average annual total shareholder return of 10 percent, including
diluted earnings per share growth and a strong dividend.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
(In thousands, except per share amounts or where otherwise noted)
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Nine Months Ended |
|
Increase/ |
|
|
September 30, |
|
(Decrease) |
|
|
2007 |
|
2006 |
|
Amount |
|
% |
Net cash provided by (used in): |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Operating activities |
|
$ |
443,285 |
|
|
$ |
430,877 |
|
|
$ |
12,408 |
|
|
|
2.9 |
|
Investing activities |
|
|
(66,327 |
) |
|
|
(42,519 |
) |
|
|
(23,808 |
) |
|
|
(56.0 |
) |
Financing activities |
|
|
(505,694 |
) |
|
|
(365,554 |
) |
|
|
(140,140 |
) |
|
|
(38.3 |
) |
Operating Activities
The primary source of cash from operating activities in the first nine months of 2007 and 2006,
respectively, was net earnings generated mainly by the Smokeless Tobacco segment, adjusted for the
effects of non-cash items. In the first nine months of 2007, the most significant uses of cash
were for the payment of federal income taxes, as well as accounts payable and accrued expenses
incurred in the normal course of business, including payments for purchases of leaf tobacco for use
in moist smokeless tobacco products and grapes for
52
use in the production of wine. The increase in cash provided by operating activities during the first nine months of 2007, as compared to the
corresponding 2006 period, was primarily related to the increase in net earnings, as well as the timing of payments related to accounts payable and accrued expenses,
partially offset by the timing of the collection of accounts receivable.
Investing Activities
The increase in cash used in investing activities for the first nine months of 2007, as compared to
the first nine months of 2006, was primarily due to spending related to acquisitions, as the
current year included spending of $155.2 million for the previously mentioned acquisition of Stags
Leap, while the prior year included spending of $10.6 million for the acquisition of the Erath
winery. In addition, expenditures related to property, plant and equipment increased to $51.5
million for the first nine months of 2007, as compared to $25.2 million in the comparable prior
year, mainly due to expenditures related to the relocation of the Companys corporate headquarters.
The impact of these items was partially offset by an increase in proceeds from the disposition of
fixed assets, with the current year reflecting $130.7 million of net proceeds, primarily from the
sale of the Companys former corporate headquarters building and the sale of winery property
located in the State of Washington, compared to $6.2 million in net proceeds in the corresponding
2006 period, primarily from the sale of winery property located in California. The first nine
months of 2007 also reflected proceeds of $10 million from the sale of short-term investments,
compared to $10 million of cash used for the purchase of short-term investments in the comparable
prior period. The Company expects net spending under the 2007 capital program to approximate $80
million.
Financing Activities
The higher level of net cash used in financing activities during the first nine months of 2007, as
compared to the first nine months of 2006, was primarily due to an increase in funds utilized for
repurchases of common stock under the Companys share repurchase program, with payments amounting
to $250 million in 2007 versus $150 million in 2006. The $100 million increase reflects the
Companys previously announced plan to increase the amount it expects to spend in 2007 in
connection with its share repurchase program (refer to the Consolidated discussion within the
Outlook section above for additional information regarding the Companys share repurchase program).
Dividends paid during the first nine months of 2007 amounted to $286.6 million, compared to $275.9
million paid during the first nine months of 2006, as the impact of a 5.3 percent dividend increase
was partially offset by a lower level of shares outstanding resulting from share repurchases.
Proceeds received from the issuance of stock, related to stock option exercise activity, were lower
during the first nine months of 2007, as compared to the first nine months of 2006, with proceeds
amounting to $30.5 million in 2007 versus $53.8 million in 2006. Cash flow from financing
activities for the first nine months of 2007 also reflects $7.1 million for the repayment of debt
assumed in connection with the Stags Leap acquisition.
As a result of the aforementioned sources and uses of cash, the Companys cash and cash equivalents
balance decreased to $125.7 million at September 30, 2007 from $254.4 million at December 31, 2006.
The Company will continue to have significant cash requirements for the remainder of 2007,
primarily for the payment of dividends, the repurchase of common stock, purchases of leaf tobacco
and grape inventories, capital spending and payments pursuant to antitrust litigation settlements
(refer to the Aggregate Contractual Obligations below for further information regarding payments
pursuant to antitrust litigation settlements). The Company estimates that amounts expended in 2007
for tobacco leaf purchases for moist smokeless tobacco products will be slightly lower than amounts
expended in 2006, while grape and bulk wine purchases
53
and grape harvest costs for wine products will be greater than amounts expended in 2006. Funds generated from net earnings, supplemented by
borrowings under the Companys revolving credit facility, will be the primary means of meeting cash
requirements over this period.
Credit Facility
On June 29, 2007, the Company entered into a $300 million, five-year revolving credit facility (the
Credit Facility) which will primarily be used for general corporate purposes, including the
support of commercial paper borrowings. The Company may elect to increase its borrowing capacity
under the Credit Facility to $500 million subject to certain terms. The Credit Facility replaces
the Companys previous $300 million, three-year revolving credit facility which was terminated on
June 29, 2007. The Credit Facility requires the maintenance of a fixed charge coverage ratio, the
payment of commitment and administrative fees and includes affirmative and negative covenants
customary for facilities of this type. The commitment fee payable on the unused portion of the
Credit Facility is determined based on an interest rate, within a range of rates, dependent upon
the Companys senior unsecured debt rating. The commitment fee currently payable is 0.05 percent
per annum. The Company did not have any borrowings under the Credit Facility at September 30, 2007.
AGGREGATE CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS
There have been no material changes in the Companys aggregate contractual obligations since
December 31, 2006, with the exception of the execution of leaf tobacco and grape purchase activity
in connection with normal purchase contracts and obligations associated with antitrust litigation
settlements.
In the first quarter of 2007, the Company completed $15.3 million in leaf tobacco purchases related
to all contracts outstanding at December 31, 2006. As of September 30, 2007, the Company has
contractual obligations of approximately $83.5 million for the purchase of leaf tobacco to be used
in the production of moist smokeless tobacco products and $464 million for the purchase and
processing of grapes to be used in the production of wine products. The majority of the contractual
obligations to purchase leaf tobacco are expected to be fulfilled by the end of 2008.
In connection with the settlement agreement the Company entered into to resolve the California
antitrust class actions, a payment of $48 million was made in October 2007 representing the first
of two equal installments to be paid with respect to the total settlement amount of $96 million.
The second installment related to this agreement is due on or before January 11, 2008. See Item 1,
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements Note 14, Contingencies, for additional
details regarding the Companys antitrust litigation.
As of September 30, 2007, the Company believes that it is reasonably possible that within the next
12 months payments of up to $0.9 million may be made to certain tax authorities related to FIN 48
unrecognized tax benefits and interest. The Company cannot make a reasonably reliable estimate of
the amount of liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits that may result in cash settlements for
periods beyond 12 months.
NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS
The Company reviews new accounting standards to determine the expected financial impact, if any,
that the adoption of each such standard will have. As of the filing of this Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q, there were no new accounting standards issued that were projected to have a material
impact on the Companys consolidated financial position, results of operations or liquidity. Refer
to Part I, Item 1, Financial Statements Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
Note 2, Recent Accounting
54
Pronouncements, for further information regarding new accounting standards.
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
Reference is made to the section captioned Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking
Information which was filed as part of Item 7 Managements Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations of the 2006 Form 10-K, regarding important factors that could
cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement
made by the Company, including forward-looking statements contained in this report.
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
See Item 7A of the 2006 Form 10-K, which is incorporated herein by reference. There has been no
material change in the information provided therein. However, in order to demonstrate the
sensitivity of the Companys interest rate hedges to immediate changes in applicable market
interest rates, updated sensitivity analyses are provided below.
The Company has hedged against the variability of forecasted interest payments attributable to
changes in interest rates through the date of an anticipated debt issuance in 2009 with a forward
starting interest rate swap. The forward starting interest rate swap has a notional amount of $100
million and the terms call for the Company to receive interest quarterly at a variable rate equal
to LIBOR and to pay interest semi-annually at a fixed rate of 5.715 percent. The fair value of the
forward starting interest rate swap at September 30, 2007 was a net liability of $2.2 million,
based on a dealer quote and considering current market rates. As an indication of the forward
starting swaps sensitivity to changes in interest rates, based upon an immediate 100 basis point
increase in the applicable interest rate at September 30, 2007, the fair value of the forward
starting swap would increase by approximately $6.9 million to a net asset of $4.7 million.
Conversely, a 100 basis point decrease in that rate would decrease the fair value of the forward
starting swap by $7.7 million to a net liability of $9.9 million.
The Company has hedged the interest rate risk on its $40 million aggregate principal amount of
floating rate senior notes with a ten-year interest rate swap having a notional amount of $40
million and quarterly settlement dates over the term of the contract. The Company pays a fixed rate
of 7.25 percent and receives a floating rate of three-month LIBOR plus 90 basis points on the
notional amount. The fair value of the swap at September 30, 2007 was a net liability of $1.8
million, based on a dealer quote and considering current market conditions. As an indication of the
interest rate swaps sensitivity to changes in interest rates, based upon an immediate 100 basis
point increase in the applicable interest rate at September 30, 2007, the fair value of the
interest rate swap would increase by approximately $0.6 million to a net liability of $1.2 million.
Conversely, a 100 basis point decrease in that rate would decrease the fair value of the interest
rate swap by $0.6 million to a net liability of $2.4 million.
55
ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
The Company, under the direction of its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chief Financial Officer
(CFO), has reviewed and evaluated the effectiveness of its disclosure controls and procedures (as
such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended (the Exchange Act)) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based on such
evaluation, the Companys CEO and CFO believe, as of the end of such period, that the Companys
disclosure controls and procedures are effective.
Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There have not been any changes in the Companys internal control over financial reporting (as such
term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during the fiscal quarter
ended September 30, 2007 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially
affect, the Companys internal control over financial reporting.
As previously reported during the third quarter of 2007, effective August 6, 2007, Raymond P.
Silcock was appointed Senior Vice President and CFO. While key positions, such as the CFO, are an
integral component of the internal control environment, the Companys internal control over
financial reporting has not been materially affected as a result of this change.
56
PART II OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
In Marvin D. Chance, Jr. and Thomas K. Osborn, on behalf of themselves and all others similarly
situated v. United States Tobacco Company, et al., District Court for Seward County, Kansas
(Case No. 02-C-12), on August 17, 2007, the court entered an order and judgment granting
plaintiffs motion for additional attorneys fees. The court entered judgment against the Company
in the amount of $2,997,565 plus prejudgment interest on a portion of the award as provided in the
judgment.
In People of the State of California, ex. Rel., Bill Lockyer, Attorney General of the State of
California v. U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company (Case No.GIC851376), on August 20, 2007, the Court
entered a Stipulation for Entry of Judgment and Final Judgment, thereby dismissing this matter
without prejudice.
In James Joseph LaChance, et al. v. U.S. Smokeless Tobacco Company, et al., Superior Court
of New Hampshire, Strafford County (No. 03-C-279), on August 24, 2007, the New Hampshire Supreme
Court reversed the order of the Superior Court of Strafford County granting the Companys motion to
dismiss and remanded the case for further proceedings in the Superior Court.
In Smokeless Tobacco Cases I-IV, Superior Court of California, San Francisco County
(J.C.C.P. Nos. 4250, 4258, 4259 and 4262), on September 21, 2007, the parties entered into a
Settlement Agreement whereby adult consumers in California will be eligible to receive cash
payments in a manner described in the Settlement Agreement and to be approved by the court. The
settlement also includes attorneys fees and costs, and costs of administration of the settlement,
in exchange for a dismissal of the action and a general release. The
court granted plaintiffs motion for preliminary approval of the
settlement following a hearing on October 17, 2007.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
There have been no material changes in the Companys risk factors from those disclosed in Part I,
Item 1A of the 2006 Form 10-K.
57
ITEM 2. UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
The following table presents the monthly share repurchases during the quarter ended September 30,
2007:
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total Number of |
|
Maximum Number of |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Shares Purchased as |
|
Shares that May Yet |
|
|
Total Number of |
|
|
|
|
|
Part of the |
|
Be Purchased Under |
|
|
Shares |
|
Average Price Paid |
|
Repurchase |
|
the Repurchase |
Period |
|
Purchased(1) |
|
Per Share(2) |
|
Programs(3) |
|
Programs(3) |
July 1 31, 2007 |
|
|
309,441 |
|
|
$ |
53.17 |
|
|
|
308,337 |
|
|
|
10,491,460 |
|
August 1 31, 2007 |
|
|
1,747,900 |
|
|
$ |
50.56 |
|
|
|
1,747,900 |
|
|
|
8,743,560 |
|
September 1 30, 2007 |
|
|
529,715 |
|
|
$ |
48.56 |
|
|
|
518,600 |
|
|
|
8,224,960 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total |
|
|
2,587,056 |
|
|
$ |
50.47 |
|
|
|
2,574,837 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
(1) |
|
Amounts reported in this column include shares of restricted stock withheld
upon vesting to satisfy tax withholding obligations. |
|
(2) |
|
The reported average price paid per share relates only to shares purchased as part
of the repurchase programs. |
|
(3) |
|
In December 2004, the Companys Board of Directors authorized a program to
repurchase up to 20 million shares of its outstanding common stock. Share repurchases under this
program commenced in June 2005. |
ITEM 6. EXHIBITS
Exhibit 10.1 Form of Notice of Grant and Stock Option Agreement, incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.1 to Form 8-K filed August 3, 2007.
Exhibit 10.2 Form of Notice of Grant and Restricted Stock Agreement, incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 10.2 to Form 8-K filed August 3, 2007.
Exhibit 31.1 Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule
15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act, as amended.
Exhibit 31.2 Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and Rule
15d-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act, as amended.
Exhibit 32 Certification of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18
U.S.C. §1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
58
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, Registrant has duly
caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
|
|
|
|
|
|
UST Inc.
(Registrant)
|
|
Date November 1, 2007 |
/s/ RAYMOND P. SILCOCK
|
|
|
Raymond P. Silcock |
|
|
Senior Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer) |
|
|
|
|
|
Date November 1, 2007 |
/s/ JAMES D. PATRACUOLLA
|
|
|
James D. Patracuolla |
|
|
Vice President and Controller
(Principal Accounting Officer) |
|
59