SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549


Form 10-K

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF

THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the Fiscal Year Ended December 29, 200228, 2003

Commission File No.: 0-12016

Interface, Inc.


(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
   
Georgia 58-1451243

 
(State of incorporation)
 (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
2859 Paces Ferry Road
Suite 2000
  
Atlanta, Georgia
 30339

 
(Address of principal executive offices)
 (zipZip code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:

(770) 437-6800

Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

None

Securities Registered Pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

Class A Common Stock, $0.10 Par Value Per Share
(Title of Class)

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

    Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.  oþ

    Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Exchange Act Rule 12b-2).  YES þ  NO o

    Aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of June 28, 200229, 2003 (assuming conversion of Class B Common Stock into Class A Common Stock): $370,881,888 (46,129,588$203,658,444 (46,076,571 shares valued at the last sales price of $8.04$4.42 on June 28, 2002)29, 2003). See Item 12.

    Number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant’s classes of Common Stock, as of March 17, 2003:1, 2004:

   
ClassNumber of Shares


Class A Common Stock,  
$0.10 par value per share 43,720,54244,350,828
 
Class B Common Stock,  
$0.10 par value per share 7,656,8857,241,289

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

    Portions of the Proxy Statement for the 20032004 Annual Meeting of Shareholders are incorporated by reference into Part III.




TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I
PART II
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
PART III
PART IV
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
INTERFACE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES SCHEDULE II -- VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS AND RESERVES
SIGNATURES
POWER OF ATTORNEY
CERTIFICATIONS
EXHIBIT INDEX
EX-4.3 SUPPLEMENT NO.2 TO THE 1995EX-4.6 INDENTURE GOVERNING SENIOR NOTES
EX-4.4 SUPPLEMENT NO.1 TO THE 1998 INDENTUREEX-4.7 REGISTRATION RIGHTS AGREEMENT
EX-4.5 SUPPLEMENT INDENTURE, DATED 12/31/2002EX-10.6 THIRD AMENDMENT TO NONQUALIFIED PLAN
EX-10.7 FIRSTFOURTH AMENDMENT TO CREDIT AGREEMENT
EX-10.12 THIRD AMENDMENT TO EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
EX-10.14 THIRD AMENDMENT TO EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENT
EX-10.24 RECEIVABLES TRANSFER AGREEMENT
EX-10.25 RECEIVABLES SALE AGREEMENT
EX-10.26 LOAN AGREEMENTNONQUALIFIED PLAN
EX-21 SUBSIDIARIES OF THE COMPANY
EX-23 CONSENT OF BDO SEIDMAN, LLP
EX-99.1 SECTION 906 CERTIFICATIONSEX-24 POWER OF ATTORNEY
EX-99.2EX-31.1 SECTION 302 CERTIFICATION OF CEO
EX-31.2 SECTION 302 CERTIFICATION OF CFO
EX-32.1 SECTION 302 CERTIFICATION OF CEO
EX-32.2 SECTION 906 CERTIFICATIONSCERTIFICATION OF CFO


PART I

ITEM 1.BUSINESS

ITEM 1.     BUSINESS

Introduction and General

     We are the worldwide leader in design, production and sales of modular carpet, and we are a globalleading manufacturer and marketer installer and servicer of other products for the commercial, institutional and residential interiors marketsmarket, with a strong presence in the followingbroadloom carpet, floorcovering services, panel fabrics and upholstery fabrics market segments:

• Modular carpet;
• Broadloom carpet;
• Floorcovering services;
• Interior panel fabrics;
• Upholstery fabrics; and
• Raised/Access flooring.
segments. We market products in over 100 countries around the world under such preeminent brand names asInterface®,Heuga®,Bentley®,Prince Street® andInterfaceFLORTM in modular carpet;Bentley, Prince Street andPrince Street House and HomeTM in broadloom carpet;Guilford of Maine®,Toltec®,Intek®,Chatham® andCamborneTM in interior fabrics and upholstery products; andIntersept® in antimicrobials. Our sales force is one of the largest in the global commercial floorcovering industry. Our principal geographic markets are the Americas, Europe and Asia-Pacific, where our sales were approximately 71%, 24% and 5%, respectively, of total net sales for fiscal year 2003.

     With aOur approximately 35% market share of approximately 35%, we are the worldwide leader in thespecified modular carpet segment. Oursegment is more than double that of our nearest competitor. In the broadloom market segment, ourBentley®Bentley andPrince Street®Street brands are leaders in the high-end, designer-oriented sector, where custom design and high quality designer-oriented sector ofare the broadloom carpet segment.principal specifying and purchasing factors. We provide specialized carpet replacement, installation, maintenance and reclamation services through ourRe:Source Americas® service network. Our Fabrics Group includes the leading U.S. manufacturer of panel fabrics for use in open plan office furniture systems, with a market share of approximately 50%, and the leading U.S. manufacturermanufacturers of contract upholstery fabrics sold to office furniture manufacturers and contract jobbers in the United States and the United Kingdom, with a U.S. contract upholsterymarket shares of approximately 35% and 67%, respectively.

     Drawing upon these strengths — especially our historical dominance in modular carpet for the corporate office segment — we are increasing our presence and market share in other commercial and institutional segments, such as government, healthcare, hospitality, education and retail space, and we have begun to develop our business in the huge residential market segment. The U.S. residential market segment for carpet is approximately $11 billion, and the combined U.S. market for carpet in the other commercial and institutional market segments is almost twice the size of approximately 35%.

     Our specialty products operations produce antimicrobial additives, vinylthe corporate office segment. The appeal and utilization of modular carpet tile backing,is expanding rapidly in each of these markets, and specialty mat and foam products. We also produced adhesives and other specialty chemical compounds until February 2003, when we sold that business. In the fourth quarter of 2002, we decided to sell or otherwise create a joint venture or strategic alliance for our raised/access flooring business (for which we are the second largest U.S. manufacturer)leveraging our unique skills and thus we now reflect that business as discontinued operations.experience with designing, producing and marketing modular products to drive our penetration into these new markets.

     Our complementary productWe operate in an industry that is highly correlated with economic conditions that affect corporate profits or commercial or institutional space refurbishment. As a result, our business over the past three years, in concert with the commercial interiors industry in general, has experienced an unprecedented downturn, both in severity and service offerings, together with an integrated marketing philosophy, enable Interfaceduration. In comparison to takethe previous longest downturn, which began around 1990 and lasted for approximately 15 months, the current downturn resulted in decreased orders for office furniture in 31 of the 36 months ended December 2003. During this period, office furniture shipments reached their lowest levels since the early 1990s. These statistics, which the commercial interiors industry considers to be leading indicators of business conditions, are based on data compiled by the Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturer’s Association (BIFMA).

     We have been able to weather this downturn in our industry, and we believe we are positioned for a “total interior solutions” approach to servingresurgence when economic conditions improve and the diverse needsindustry recovers, because of our customers around the world.modular product dominance, strong business model and several strategic restructuring initiatives we implemented beginning in 2000. These initiatives included:

We market products in over 100 countries around the world under such established brand names asInterface®,Heuga®,Bentley andPrince Street in modular carpet;BentleyandPrince Streetin broadloom carpet;Guilford of Maine®,Stevens Linen™,Toltec®,Intek®,Chatham®,Camborne™ andGlenside™ in interior fabrics and upholstery products;Intersept® in antimicrobials; and, until the disposition of our raised/access flooring business is consummated,C-Tec®,Atlantic™ andIntercell® in raised/access flooring systems. We utilize an internal marketing and sales force of over 1,000 experienced personnel stationed at over 75 locations in over 30 countries, to market our products and services in person to our customers. This sales force is one of the largest sales forces in the global commercial floorcovering industry. Our principal geographic markets are the Americas (70% of 2002 net sales), Europe (26% of 2002 net sales) and Asia-Pacific (4% of 2002 net sales).

     For 2002, we had net sales and net loss (including a $55.4 million after-tax write-down associated with our implementation of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 142 and a pre-tax restructuring charge of approximately $23.4 million) of $924.1 million and $87.7 million, respectively. Net sales consisted of sales of floorcovering products and related services ($710.0 million), interior fabrics sales ($199.3 million) and other specialty product sales ($14.8 million), accounting for 76.8%, 21.6% and 1.6% of total net sales, respectively.
• further rationalizing our manufacturing operations and workforce (including 12 plant closings and a 30% reduction in headcount since 2000);
• implementing a comprehensive company-wide supply chain management program;

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• exiting our unprofitable U.S. raised/access flooring business;
• repositioning our broadloom business to focus on the historically profitable high-end, specified, designer-oriented sector; and
• improving our capital structure by extending the maturity of substantially all of our debt and establishing a new asset-based revolving credit facility with less restrictive terms than our prior credit facility.

     At the same time, we continued to invest strategically in innovative product concepts and designs to penetrate several non-corporate office segments of the interiors market. As a result of these factors, we have reduced our exposure to economic and business cycles that affect the corporate office segment more adversely than other segments, while maintaining our historical dominance in modular products for that segment. We are leveraging our historical dominance in both modular carpet and high-end, specified broadloom carpet to penetrate additional market segments.

Our Strengths

     We are stronger today in several key areas because of the above fundamental elements of our business and affirmative strategic initiatives we implemented over the past three challenging years. We are positioned to both drive and capitalize upon several significant market opportunities as economic and industry conditions improve. Our dominant market positions reflect our principal competitive strengths which include:

     Market Leader in Attractive Modular Segment. We are the world’s leading and only global manufacturer of modular carpet, with a market share that is more than twice that of our nearest competitor. Modular carpet includes carpet tile and structure-backed two-meter roll goods. Modular carpet has become more prevalent across all commercial interiors markets as designers, architects and end users become more familiar with its unique beneficial attributes. We are driving this trend with our product innovations discussed below, and we expect that it will continue. According to the 2003Floor Focusinteriors industry survey of the top 250 designers in the United States, carpet tile was the leading product specified for the fifth consecutive year. We believe that we are well positioned to lead and capitalize upon the continued shift to modular carpet.

Preeminent Brand Names withBrands and Reputation for Quality, Reliability and Reliability.Leadership.Our products are known in the industry for their high quality, reliability and reliability.premium positioning in the marketplace. Our preeminent brand names in carpets and interior fabrics are leaders in the industry. In a 2002the 2003 interiors industry survey of interiortop designers published in thebyFloor Focus industry publication,, an Interface company wasbrand ranked first or second in eachfour of the five survey categories ofcategories: carpet design, quality, value, service and performance. In addition, an Interface company ranked first and second in the category of “best overall business experience” for carpet companies in this survey. On the international front,Heugais one of the preeminent brand names in carpet tiles for commercial, institutional and residential use worldwide.Guilford of Maine, Chatham, IntekandCamborneare leading brand names in their respective markets for interior fabrics. Interface Architectural Resources’TecCrete® brand is a leading brandMore generally, as the appeal and utilization of modular carpet continues to expand into new market segments such as education, hospitality and retail space, our reputation as the inventor and pioneer of modular carpet — as well as our preeminent brands and dominant market position for modular carpet in the raised/access flooring market.corporate office segment — will enhance our competitive advantage in marketing to the customers in these new markets. We are also a well-known leader in ecological sustainability, as we endeavor to cease being a net “taker” from the earth. Our sustainability efforts are increasingly recognized by customers and prospects, which is an advantage as more businesses consider “green factors” when making purchase decisions.

     Strong Free Cash Flow Generation. Our ability to generate strong free cash flow represents a key strength for our operations. We will have no significant debt amortization or debt maturity obligations with respect to our senior or senior subordinated notes until 2008, and our revolving credit facility does not mature until October 2007. Drawing upon the specified, high-end nature of our principal products and their premium positioning in the marketplace, we have structured our principal businesses to yield high contribution margins. As a result ofOur business is also characterized by low maintenance capital expenditures, and we previously made the strategic investments necessary to establish our historical investments in global manufacturing capabilities and mass customization techniques and facilities, andfacilities. Several of our sustainedstrategic restructuring initiatives over the past three years further enhanced our ability to reduce costs and enhance operating efficiencies throughout our supply and production chain,generate free cash flow. As a result, we are positioned to derive substantially increased cash flows from operations. We have the current capacity, without significant

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incremental capital expenditures, to increase production levels to handle significantly higher demand for our products — which may result from either or both of (i)(1) improved economic conditions and (ii)(2) the continued expansion of our business in non-corporate office market segments that is being driven by— and thus to generate significantly higher levels of free cash flow in the increasing acceptance of modular products. The consolidation and integration of varied operating, manufacturing and administrative functions, along with the workforce reductions and other initiatives reflected in our 2000, 2001 and 2002 restructuring charges, contribute to this strength.future.

     Innovative Product Design and Development Capabilities.Our product design and development capabilities givehave long given us a significant competitive advantage.advantage, and they continue to do so as modular carpet’s appeal and utilization expand across virtually every market segment and around the globe. With our most recent design innovation — our newi2TM modular product line, which includes ourEntropy® product — we are defining the standards for modular carpet today. These standards feature random patterning designs (which allow for mergeable dye lots and permit initial installation and replacement without regard to the directional orientation of the carpet tiles), cost-efficient installation and maintenance, interactive flexibility, and recycled and recyclable materials. In just over two years, ouri2 line of products now comprises approximately 20% of our total U.S. modular carpet business, andEntropy has become the fastest growing product in our history.BiomorphTM, another one of ouri2 products, garnered the Best of NeoCon Gold Award at the 2003 NeoCon annual trade show. We have anintroduced more than 20 newi2 products at that show, which we believe was several times more than the product introductions of any of our competitors. Ouri2 products represent a differentiated category of smart, environmentally sensitive and stylish modular carpet. Our long-standing exclusive consulting contractrelationship with the leadingaward-winning design firm David Oakey Designs, Inc. (Oakey Designs). This relationship remains vibrant and augments our internal research, development and design staff. Since engaging Oakey Designs has a pivotal role in 1994, we have introduced more than 147 new carpet designs in the U.S. and have enjoyed considerable success in winning U.S. carpet industry design awards from the International Interior Design Association (IIDA), particularly in the carpet tile division. Oakey Designs’ services have been extended todeveloping our international carpet operations, and we expect to continue to introduce more new designs to our international customers in the near future.i2 product line. We also have autilize our consulting contractrelationship with the highly-regarded design firm Suzanne Tick, Inc., which is affiliated with award-winning carpet manufacturer Tuva Looms, Inc., to steward and design ourPrince Streetbrand broadloom carpets and area rugs.

     Make-to-Order and Low-Cost Global Manufacturing Operations.Capabilities. The success of our modernization and restructuring of operations over the past several years gives us a distinct competitive advantage in meeting two principal requirements of the specified products markets we primarily target — that is, providing custom samples quickly and on-time delivery of customized final products. Approximately 85% of our modular carpet products in the United States and Asia-Pacific markets are now made-to-order, and we are increasing our made-to-order production in Europe as well. Our make-to-order capabilities not only enhance our marketing and sales, they significantly improve our inventory turns. Our global manufacturing capabilities in modular carpet production are an important competitivecomponent of this strength, and give us a particular advantage in serving the needs of multinational corporate customers that require products and services at various locations around the world. Global manufacturing locations also enable us to compete effectively with local producers in our international markets, while also giving international customers more favorable delivery times and freight costs. Our capital investment program to consolidate and modernize the yarn manufacturing operations of our Fabrics Group has resulted in significant efficiencies and cost savings, as well as the capability to produce new products and enter new markets. In addition, these investments have allowed us to respond to a shift in demand towards lighter-weight, less expensive fabrics by original equipment manufacturer (OEM) panel fabric customers.

Established Customer and Design Community Relationships. We focus our sales efforts at the design phase of commercial projects. Our dedicated sales and marketing personnel, who number over 1,000 in over 30 countries worldwide, cultivate relationships with the owners and users of the facilities involved in the projects as well as with architects, engineers, interior designers and contracting firms who are directly involved in specifying products and often make or significantly influence purchasing decisions. In all of our sales efforts, we emphasize our product design and styling capabilities. We also emphasize our ability to provide creative, high-value solutions to our customers’ needs. Our marketing and sales personnel are also available as a

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technical resource for our customers, both with respect to product maintenance and service as well as design matters.

     Experienced and Motivated Management and Sales Force. An important component of our competitive position is the continued strengtheningstrength of our management team and its commitment to developing and maintaining an enthusiasticengaged and accountable work force. WeOver the past two years, we have aaugmented our senior management team ofin several areas with experienced executives. Our team is highly skilled and dedicated executives to guideguiding our continuedoverall growth diversification, and managementexpansion into our targeted new market segments, while maintaining our dominance in traditional markets and advancing our high contribution margins and free cash flow generation strategic initiatives. We utilize an internal marketing and predominantly commissioned sales force of over 750 experienced personnel, stationed at over 75 locations in over 30 countries, to market our financial position. Our executivesproducts and services in person to our customers. We have also developed special features for our incentive compensation and our sales and marketing forces are also highly motivated by incentivetraining programs designedin order to promote performance and facilitate leadership by our executives in strategic areas. In addition, we have made substantial investments in training and educating our approximately 5,500 employees worldwide. In both 1998 and 1999,Fortunemagazine rated Interface as one of the top 100 employers in the U.S. on the strength of our commitment to our employees.Fortunealso has rated Interface one of the “10 Most Admired Companies” in our industry category.

Our Business Strategy and Principal Initiatives

     Our corporatebusiness strategy is (1) to continue the diversification and integration of our business, on a sustainable basis, worldwide. We have achieved diversification by both developing products internally and acquiring complementary product lines and businesses in the commercial, institutional and residential interiors field. As usages and demand for modular carpet continue to increase in all areas of the commercial market, we strive to leverage our dominant position in the modular carpet segment and our unique product design and global make-to-order capabilities in order to exploit the expanding markets for modular products across industry segments, while maintaining our leadership position in the corporate office market segment, and (2) to return to our historical profit levels in the high-end, designer-oriented sector

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of the broadloom carpet and interior fabrics markets. We will seek to increase diversification. We are continuing to integraterevenues, free cash flow and profitability by capitalizing on our business by identifying and developing additional synergies and operating efficiencies among our products and global businesses. In implementing this strategy, we are pursuingcompetitive strengths through the following principal strategic initiatives:

     ExpandPenetrate Expanding Markets for Modular Products. Our management believes thatThe popularity of modular carpet continues to increase in popularity compared with other floorcovering products across most markets. In responsemarkets, internationally as well as in the United States. While maintaining our dominance in the corporate office segment, we will continue to such increased acceptance of and demand for modular products, we are leveragingleverage our position as the worldwide leader in thefor modular carpet market, with a share of approximately 35%,in order to drive sales in all market sectors. As part of that effort, wesegments globally. Our recently introduced a newi2product line and marketing campaign referred to as i2TM, which highlights ourEntropy®Entropy,TransformationTM,, FrequencyTM andCubicTM modular carpet products.products — are defining the standards for modular carpet today, across market segments and globally. These products were specifically designed to be installed without regard tostandards are based on the directional orientation of the carpet tiles and without regard to thefeatures that ouri2 line is pioneering: random patterning, mergeable dye lots, from which the carpet tiles were manufactured. These benefits makecost-efficient installation and maintenance, interactive flexibility, and replacement of the products easier, less expensiverecycled and less wasteful, while also delivering a beautiful floorcovering for the customer. Anotherrecyclable materials. As part of our effort to drive modularfocus on the approximately $11 billion U.S. residential carpet market segment, we recently launched ourInterfaceFLORandPrince Street House and Home product lines, which are discussed below. A principal part of our international focus — which leverages our global marketing capabilities and sales infrastructure — is the launchsignificant opportunities in several emerging geographic markets for modular carpet. Some of InterfaceFLOR, Inc.,these markets, such as China, India and Eastern Europe, represent large and growing economies that are essentially new markets for interiors products, which we believe are going directly to high utilization of modular products. Others, such as Germany, which is discussed below.the second largest carpet market in the world, are established markets that are transitioning to the use of modular products from historically low levels of penetration by modular carpet. Each of these emerging markets represents a significant growth opportunity for our modular business. Our initiative to penetrate these markets will include drawing upon our internationally preeminentHeugabrand. For example, we successfully introduced a mid-pricedHeugabrand into Asia in 2003, and we plan similar products for other regions while also marketing products based on our newi2 line.

     Increase All Product Sales in Less CyclicalNon-Corporate Office Market Segments. In both our floorcoverings and fabrics businesses, we are focusing more of ourwill continue to focus product design and marketing and sales efforts on non-corporate office market segments such as government, education, healthcare, hospitality, retail, tenant improvement and residential space. We began this initiative as part of our segment diversification strategy in order to capture attractive market share opportunities and also2001 primarily to reduce our future exposure to certainthe more severe economic cycles that affectcyclicality of the corporate office segment, more adversely. These other segments include retail space, government institutions, schools, healthcare facilities, tenant improvement space, hospitality centers and residential space. In orderwe reduced our mix of corporate office versus non-corporate office sales from 70% and 30% in fiscal 2002 to 67% and 33% for fiscal 2003. To implement this strategy, we have:

 • introduced specialized product offerings tailored to the unique demands of these segments, including specific designs, functionalities and price points;
 
 • created aspecial sales forceteams dedicated to penetrating these segments at a high level;level, with a focus on specific customer accounts rather than geographic territories; and
 
 • realigned incentives for our corporate office segment sales force generally in order to encourage their efforts, where appropriate, to penetrateassist our penetration of these other segments, including paying higher commissions for sales in these segments relative to the corporate segment.segments.

     In addition,As part of this strategy for the U.S. residential market segment, we recently launched ourInterfaceFLOR Inc., a new companyandPrince Street House and Homelines of products in 2003. These products were specifically created to bring high style modular and broadloom floorcovering to the residual market segment. residential market. As part of its marketing approach,InterfaceFLORoffers direct-to-consumer sales by catalog and Web site. To simplifywebsite. In addition, we are test-marketing in-store sales for these products, including a program by which a number of our residential modular products are being offered by Lowe’s, the purchasing process, InterfaceFLOR has created pre-packaged area rughome-improvement retailer, in certain of its stores on a test basis.

Advance Ecological Sustainability. Our goal and wall-to-wall options incommitment to be ecologically “sustainable” by 2020 — that is, the point at which we are no longer a variety of colors, patternsnet “taker” from the earth and textures. The products sold by InterfaceFLOR are conveniently delivereddo no harm to the customer’s doorstepbiosphere — is both a strategic initiative and a competitive strength. Increasingly, our customers are concerned about the environmental and broader ecological implications of their operations and the products they use in compact boxes allowing for easy installation.them. Our commitment to sustainability preceded the market’s interest, and it is ingrained in our culture. Our leadership, knowledge and expertise in the area, especially in the “green building” movement and the related Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) certification program, resonate deeply

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with many of our customers and prospects around the globe, and these businesses are increasingly making purchase decisions based on “green” factors. Our modular carpet products historically have had inherent installation and maintenance advantages that translated into greater efficiency and waste reduction. We have further enhanced the “green” quality of our modular carpet in our new, highly successfuli2 product line, and we are using raw materials and production technologies and processes in areas of our fabrics business that directly reduce the adverse impact of those operations on the environment. The 2003Floor Focussurvey of the top 250 designers named us the top company among the “green leaders”. As more customers in our target markets share our view that sustainability is good business and not just good deeds, our acknowledged leadership position should provide a differentiated advantage in competing for their business.

     De-leverage Our Balance Sheet. One of our objectives is to use the strong free cash flow generation capability of our business to repay our existing debt and to continue to strengthen our financial position. Certain of our ongoingOur prior initiatives have already reducedpositioned us to do so. We will continue to execute programs to reduce costs further and enhance free cash flow. In addition, our operating costs structure. Our existing capacity to increase production levels without significant capital expenditures will facilitatefurther enhance our generation of additional free cash flow when demand for our products rises as a result of improved economic conditions generally or expansionsthe increase in revenues otherwise from our other strategic initiatives.

Continue to Tighten Our Supply Chain and Cost Containment Generally. For 2003, our Company-wide, end-to-end, supply chain management program continued to drive performance improvement across our businesses around the world. That program — which focuses on the three major areas of inventory performance, accounts receivable optimization, and supplier and spending management — has instituted a cultural shift within our company because of its immediate and demonstrable bottom line results. For example, inventory turns for 2003 increased in all of our major businesses over 2002 levels (turns in the Americas modular business from other strategic initiativesup by 11.2%, European modular business up by 6.3%, Asia-Pacific modular business up by 19.4%; broadloom business up by 7.2%; and Fabrics Group up by 11.9%). Beyond that initiative, we have implemented.been steadily trimming costs from our operations for several years, through multiple and sometimes painful initiatives, which has served to make us stronger today and for the future. For example, since 2000, we have rationalized our operations by closing 12 manufacturing facilities; reduced our worldwide workforce by over 30%; trimmed annual selling, general and administrative expenses by approximately $60 million; and reduced the total number of SKUs in our broadloom business by approximately 46%. We will continue to search for waysimplement prudent initiatives in these and other areas in order to reducefurther eliminate or contain costs, further and enhance free cash flow.

Tighten Our Supply Chain. In 2001, we retained a leading consulting firmwhile remaining poised to help us analyze our supply chain and identify opportunities to create greater efficiencies and savings. In early 2002, based on the results of that analysis, we implemented a Company-wide supply chain management program that focused on three major areas: (1) inventory performance; (2) accounts receivable optimization; and (3) supplier and spend management. Through that program, among other accomplishments, we have reduced our inventories and working capital, reduced the “days outstanding” on our receivables, and improved the efficiency of our purchasing processes.

Maximize Global Marketing and Manufacturing Capabilities. We will continue to use the complementary nature of our product lines to offer “total interior solutions” to our customers worldwide to meet their diverse needs for products and services. We combine our global marketing and manufacturing capabilities to target multinational companies successfully and compete effectively in local markets worldwide. We have a global accounts team with responsibility for our largest multinational customers and prospects, and we have established a web-based communications network to serve those multinational customers better.

Advance Sustainability Programs. In 1995, we began a worldwide war-on-waste initiative referred to internally as “QUEST”. The war on waste is part of our broader EcoSense initiative, which is our long-range program to achieve greater resource efficiency and, ultimately, ecological “sustainability” — that is, the point at which Interface is no longer a net “taker” from the earth — with the goal of becoming the first “restorative” company. One example of a product developed under this initiative is the line of fabrics manufactured from recycled, recyclable or compostable materials under theTerratex® brand. As another example, we have reduced our absolute greenhouse gas emissions by over 30% since our baseline years. We believe that our pursuit of our goals under this initiative provides a competitive advantage in marketing our products to an increasing number of customers.capitalize upon market improvements.

Floorcovering Products/Services

Products

     Interface is the world’s largest manufacturer and marketer of modular carpet, with a global market share of approximately 35%. Modular carpet includes carpet tile and structure-backed two-meter roll goods. We also manufacture and sell broadloom carpet, which generally consists of tufted carpet sold primarily in twelve-foot rolls, under theBentleyandPrince Streetbrands. Our broadloom operations focus on the high quality, designer-oriented sector of the U.S. broadloom carpet market. We also offer a vinyl hard flooring product in Europe under the brandScan-LockTM.

     Modular Carpet. Our modular carpet system, which is marketed under established leadingthe preeminent global brands such asInterface andHeuga, and more recently under theBentley andPrince Street brands, utilizes carpet tiles cut in precise, dimensionally stable squares (usually 50 square centimeters) or rectangles to produce a floorcovering whichthat combines the appearance and texture of broadloom carpet with the advantages of a modular carpet system. According to a 2002 survey of 250 interior designers published in theFloor Focus industry publication, ourInterface brand was rated number one among modular and broadloom carpet brands for quality, performance and service in the U.S. OurGlasBac® technology employs a unique, fiberglass-reinforced polymeric composite backing that allows tile to be installed and remain flat on the floor without the need for general application of adhesives or use of fasteners. We also make carpet tiles with aGlasBacRe backing containing post-industrial and/or post-consumer recycled materials.materials, which we market under theGlasBac RE trademark.

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     Our carpet tile has become popular for a number of reasons. First, carpet tile incorporating this reinforced backing may be easily removed and replaced, permitting rearrangement of furniture without the inconvenience

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and expense associated with removing, replacing or repairing other soft surface flooring products, including broadloom carpeting. Because a relatively small portion of a carpet installation often receives the bulk of traffic and wear, the ability to rotate carpet tiles between high traffic and low traffic areas and to selectively replace worn tiles can significantly increase the average life and cost efficiency of the floorcovering. In addition, carpet tile facilitates access to sub-floor air delivery systems and telephone, electrical, computer and other wiring by lessening disruption of operations. It also eliminates the cumulative damage and unsightly appearance commonly associated with frequent cutting of conventional carpet as utility connections and disconnections are made. Finally, modular carpet partners well with our raised/access flooring which enables under-the-floor cable management and air delivery systems. We believe that, within the overall floorcovering market, the worldwide demand for modular carpet is increasing as more customers recognize these advantages.

     We use a number of conventional and technologically advanced methods of carpet construction to produce carpet tiles in a wide variety of colors, patterns, textures, pile heights and densities. These varieties are designed to meet both the practical and aesthetic needs of a broad spectrum of commercial interiors — particularly offices, healthcare facilities, airports, educational and other institutions, hospitality spaces, and retail facilities — and residential interiors. Our carpet tile systems permit distinctive styling and patterning that can be used to complement interior designs, to set off areas for particular purposes and to convey graphic information. While we continue to manufacture and sell a substantial portion of our carpet tile in standard styles, an increasing percentage of our modular carpet sales is custom or made-to-order product designed to meet customer specifications.

     In addition to general uses of our carpet tile, we produce and sell a specially adapted version of our carpet tile for the healthcare facilities market. Our carpet tile possesses characteristics — such as the use of theIntersept antimicrobial, static-controlling nylon yarns, and thermally pigmented, colorfast yarns — which make it suitable for use in these facilities in place of hard surface flooring. Through our relationship with Oakey Designs, we also have created modular carpet products specifically designed for each of the education, hospitality retail and residentialretail market segments. Moreover, we recently launched ourInterfaceFLOR Inc., a new business line of products to specifically targetingtarget modular carpet sales to the residential market segment.

     We also manufacture and sell two-meter roll goods that are structure-backed and offer many of the advantages of both carpet tile and broadloom carpet. These roll goods are often used in conjunction with carpet tiles to create special design effects. Our current principal customers for these products are in the education, healthcare and government sectors.

     Broadloom Carpet. We maintain a significant share of the high-end, designer-oriented broadloom carpet segment by combining innovative product design and short production and delivery times with a marketing strategy aimed at interior designers, architects and other specifiers. OurBentley Mills designs emphasize the dramatic use of color, while unique, multi-dimensional textured carpets with a hand-tufted look are the hallmark ofPrince Street’sStreet broadloom products. We engaged the highly-regarded design firm Suzanne Tick, Inc., affiliated with award-winning carpet manufacturer Tuva Looms, Inc., to advance ourPrince Street brand broadloom carpets. In addition, with the design assistance of Suzanne Tick, we recently launched thePrince Street House and HomeTM collection of high-styledhigh-style broadloom carpet and area rugs targeted at design-oriented residential consumers. ThePrince Street andBentley brands were rated among the top brands for carpet design in the U.S., according to a 2002 survey of interior designers published in theFloor Focus industry publication.

Resilient Textile Flooring. In 1999, we beta-testedSolenium® resilient textile flooring, a new category of product which combines the functional and aesthetic benefits of resilient flooring and carpet.Solenium is highly stain-resistant and has carpet-like softness, but in appropriate applications is as easy to maintain as vinyl flooring.Solenium is manufactured using one-third less material and energy than carpet and is designed to be completely recyclable. We believeSolenium fills an unmet need within healthcare, retail and education markets. In 2002, we continued our development efforts withSolenium, focusing on improving the grout edge process for the product. We continue to believeSolenium has market potential, and we intend to re-launch the

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product in 2003. In this category, we also offerHopi™,Wabi® andSabi™ products, which have a flat, woven-type surface but with the soft feel and acoustical benefits of carpet.

Services

     We provide or arrange for commercial carpet installation services, primarily through theourRe:Source®Source® service provider network. The network in the U.S.United States includes owned and affiliated commercial floorcovering contractors strategically located in approximately 100 locations covering most of the major metropolitan areas of the United States. We alsoIn Australia, we offer these services through the largest single carpet distributor in Australia. We have workedthat country. In addition, we are working to strengthen our alliances with contractors in Europe so that we may also offer turnkey services to our European carpet customers. The services of the network allowsallow us to:

 • monitor and enhance customer satisfaction throughout the product ownership cycle;
 
 • reduce our cost of selling by bolstering efforts of sales representatives at the mill level with local contractor-level support;

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 • expand into new market segments; and
 
 • if our efforts to increase operating efficiencies of the network are successful, improve our margins by combining product and service offerings.

     The Re:Source Americas serviceservices of the network also providesinclude a carpet maintenance servicesprogram in the United States using ourRe:Source Floor Care maintenance system, which includes a custom-engineered maintenance methodology and theRe:Source Technologies brand line of cleaning chemicals. In Europe, we offer the Europeana comparable version of the maintenance program,IMAGETM, inthrough which we license selected independent service contractors to provide carpet maintenance services.

     The Re:Source Americas service network also provides carpet replacement services using itsourRenovisions®Renovisions® process. This process utilizes patented lifting equipment and specialty tools to lift office equipment and modular workstations in place, permitting the economical replacement of existing carpet with virtually no disruption of the customer’s business. Other proprietary products facilitate the movement of file cabinets, office furniture, and even complete workstations, avoiding the inefficiency and disruption associated with unloadingemptying and dismantling these items.

     Finally,In addition, the Re:Source Americas service network provides a channel for delivery of a variety of additional services and products that we offer, including furniture moving and installation, furniture refurbishment, project management, maintenance, carpet reclamation and recycling through ourRe:Entry®EntryTM reclamation system,Re:Source Technologies brand adhesives, and specialty products (such as mats and foam products) manufactured by Pandel, Inc. and raised/access flooring systems manufactured by Interface Architectural Resources, Inc.

     We have worked diligently over the past several years to increase the operating efficiencies of this network and believe that we are now able to takeimprove its financial performance by taking advantage of its contractor infrastructure. We will continue to seek the contractor infrastructuremost efficient and profitable approach for us to deliver these services for our benefit.customers.

Marketing and Sales

     We traditionally focused our carpet marketing strategy on major accounts, seeking to build lasting relationships with national and multinational end-users, and on architects, engineers, interior designers, contracting firms, and other specifiers who often make or significantly influence purchasing decisions. While most of our sales are in the commercialcorporate office segment, both new construction and renovation, we also emphasize sales in other segments, including retail space, government institutions, schools, healthcare facilities, tenant improvement space, hospitality centers, residences and home office space. We intendbegan this initiative as part of our segment diversification strategy in 2001 primarily to focus more on these latter segments in the future in order to achieve a higher balance of sales in those areas relativereduce our exposure to the commercialmore severe economic cyclicality of the corporate office segment, which could lessen the effects on usand we reduced our mix of corporate office versus non-corporate office sales from certain economic cycles.70% and 30% in fiscal 2002 to 67% and 33% for fiscal 2003. Our marketing efforts are enhanced by the established and well-known brand names of our carpet products, including the preeminentInterface andHeuga brands in modular carpet andBentley andPrince Street brands in broadloom carpet. Our exclusive consulting agreement with the award-winning, premier design firm Oakey Designs has enabled us to introduce more than 147150 new carpet designs in the U.S.United States alone since 1994.

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An important part of our marketing and sales efforts involves the preparation of custom-made samples of requested carpet designs, in conjunction with the development of innovative product designs and styles to meet the customer’s particular needs. Our mass customization initiative simplified our carpet manufacturing operations, which significantly improved our ability to respond quickly and efficiently to requests for samples. The turnaround time for us to produce made-to-order carpet samples to customer specifications has been reduced from an average of 30 days to less than five days, and the average number of carpet samples produced per month has increased tenfold since the mid 1990s. This sample production ability has significantly enhanced our marketing and sales efforts and has increased our volume of higher margin custom or made-to-order sales. In addition, through our websitewww.thesamplecenter.com,websites, we have made it easy to view and request samples of our products.

     We primarily use our internal marketing and sales force to market our carpet products. We also rely on contractors in our Re:Source Americas service network to bolster our sales efforts. In order to implement our global marketing efforts, we have product showrooms or design studios in the United States,

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Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Denmark, England, Ireland, France, Germany, Spain, the Netherlands, Australia, Japan and Singapore. We expect to open offices in other locations around the world as necessary to capitalize on emerging marketing opportunities.

Manufacturing

     We manufacture carpet inat two locations in the United States and at facilities in the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia and Thailand. We also produceSolenium resilient textile flooring in the United States and the United Kingdom and manufacture vinyl flooring in the United Kingdom.

     Historically, we operated two U.S. broadloom manufacturing facilities to produce ourBentley andPrince Street broadloom brands. These facilities, which were located in City of Industry, California and Cartersville, Georgia, had been operating at less than full capacity. In 2000, we moved the manufacturing operations for ourPrince Street brand from Cartersville, Georgia and integrated them into our City of Industry, California facility, which had produced ourBentley brand products, in order to reduce excess capacity and increase capacity utilization. The operations, as combined, now function under the corporate name Bentley Prince Street, Inc.

     Having foreign manufacturing operations enables us to supply our customers with carpet from the location offering the most advantageous delivery times, exchange rates, duties and tariffs, exchange rates, and freight expense, and enhances our ability to develop a strong local presence in foreign markets. We believe that the ability to offer consistent products and services on a worldwide basis at attractive prices is an important competitive advantage in servicing multinational customers seeking global supply relationships. We will consider additional locations for manufacturing operations in other parts of the world as necessary to meet the demands of customers in international markets.

     In the mid 1990s, we implemented a manufacturing plan in which we substantially standardized our worldwide manufacturing procedures. In connection with the implementation of this plan, we adopted global standards for our tufting equipment, yarn systems and product styling and changed our standard carpet tile size from 18 square inches to 50 square centimeters. We believe that changing our standard carpet tile size has allowed us to reduce operational waste and fossil fuel energy consumption and to offer consistent product sizing for our global customers.

     The environmental management systems of our floorcovering manufacturing facilities in LaGrange, Georgia, West Point, Georgia, West Yorkshire, England, Northern Ireland, Australia, the Netherlands, Canada and Thailand are certified under International Standards Organization (ISO) Standard No. 14001.

     Our significant international operations are subject to various political, economic and other uncertainties, including risks of restrictive taxation policies, foreign exchange restrictions, changing political conditions and governmental regulations. We also receive a substantial portion of our revenues in currencies other than U.S. dollars, which makes us subject to the risks inherent in currency translations. Although our ability to manufacture and ship products from facilities in several foreign countries reduces the risks of foreign currency

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fluctuations we might otherwise experience, we also engage from time to time in hedging programs intended to further reduce those risks.

Competition

     We compete, on a global basis, in the sale of our floorcovering products with other carpet manufacturers and manufacturers of vinyl and other types of floorcoverings. Although the industry has experienced significant consolidation, a large number of manufacturers remain in the industry. Management believes thatWe believe we are the largest manufacturer of modular carpet in the world, possessing a global market share that is approximately twice that of our nearest competitor. However, a number of domestic and foreign competitors manufacture modular carpet as one segment of their business, and some of these competitors have financial resources greater than ours. In addition, some of the competing carpet manufacturers have the ability to extrude at least some of their requirements for fiber used in carpet products, which decreases their dependence on third party suppliers of fiber.

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     We believe the principal competitive factors in our primary floorcovering markets are quality, design, service, broad product lines, product performance, marketing strategy and pricing. In the commercialcorporate office market, modular carpet competes with various floorcoverings, of which broadloom carpet is the most common. The quality, service, design, better and longer average product performance, flexibility (design options, selective rotation or replacement, use in combination with roll goods) and convenience of our modular carpet are our principal competitive advantages.

     We believe we have competitive advantages in several areas. First, having theBentley Mills combination of modular andPrince Street broadloom carpet lines enableenables us to offer one-stop shopping to commercial carpet customers and, thus, to capture some sales that would have gone to competitors. Additionally, our relationship with Oakey Designs allows us to introduce numerous innovative and attractive floorcovering products to our customers. In addition,Further, we believe that our global manufacturing capabilities are an important competitive advantage in serving the needs of multinational corporate customers. We believe that our resilient textile flooring products, and the incorporation of theIntersept antimicrobial chemical agent into the backing of our modular carpet enhanceenhances our ability to compete successfully with resilient tile in the healthcare market. Finally,

     In addition, we believe that our goal and commitment to be ecologically “sustainable” by 2020 — that is, the formationpoint at which we are no longer a net “taker” from the earth and do no harm to the biosphere — is a competitive strength as well as a strategic initiative. Increasingly, our customers are concerned about the environmental and broader ecological implications of theRe:Source service provider network,their operations and the resulting improvementproducts they use in customer service,them. Our commitment to sustainability preceded the market’s interest, and it is a differentiating factor that has further enhancedingrained in our competitive position.culture. Our leadership, knowledge and expertise in the area, especially in the “green building” movement and the related LEED certification program, resonate deeply with many of our customers and prospects around the globe, and these businesses are increasingly making purchase decisions based on “green” factors.

Interior Fabrics

Products

     Our Fabrics Group designs, manufactures and markets specialty fabrics for open plan office furniture systems and commercial and residential interiors. Our Fabrics Group includes the leading U.S. manufacturer of panel fabrics for use in open plan office furniture systems, with a market share of approximately 50%. Sales of panel fabrics to OEMs of movable office furniture systems constituted more than 45% of the Fabrics Group’s total North American fabrics sales in fiscal 2002. With the acquisition of the furniture fabrics assets of the Chatham Manufacturing division of CMI Industries, Inc. in May 2000, we are also the leading U.S. manufacturer of contract upholstery sold to office furniture manufacturers and contract jobbers, with a U.S. market share of approximately 35% in fiscal 2002. In addition, we manufacture other interior fabrics products, including wall covering fabrics, fabrics used for window treatments and fabrics used for cubicle curtains.

Open plan office furniture systems are typically panel-enclosed work stations customized to particular work environments. The open plan concept offers a number of advantages over conventional office designs, including more efficient floor space utilization, reduced energy consumption and greater flexibility to redesign existing space.

     Our Fabrics Group includes the leading U.S. manufacturer of panel fabrics for use in open plan office furniture systems, with a market share of approximately 50%. Sales of panel fabrics constituted 52% of the Fabrics Group’s total North American fabrics sales in fiscal 2003. We are also the leading manufacturer of contract upholstery sold to office furniture manufacturers and contract jobbers in the United States and United Kingdom, with market shares in those countries in fiscal 2003 of approximately 35% and 67%, respectively.

     In 2003, we placed our Fabrics Group under new senior management, which has further focused our efforts to improve its operating efficiencies and results of performance. We have consolidated fabrics manufacturing facilities and eliminated underperforming product offerings, while maintaining the high level of awareness for our fabrics brands.

During the 1990s, we diversified and expanded significantly both our product offerings and markets for interior fabrics.fabrics through several strategic acquisitions domestically and internationally. Our 1993 acquisition of theStevens Linen lines added decorative, upscale upholstery furniture fabrics and specialty textile products to the Fabrics Group’s traditional product offerings. Our June 1995 acquisition of Toltec Fabrics, Inc., a manufacturer and marketer of fabric for the contract and home furnishings

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upholstery markets, enhanced our presence in the contract jobber market. Our December 1995 acquisitionassets of the IntekChatham Manufacturing division of SpringsCMI Industries, Inc., a manufacturer experienced in the production of lighter-weight panel fabrics, has strengthened the Fabrics Group’s capabilities in that market. Our Chatham acquisition in May 2000 established our dominance as the leading manufacturer of upholstery for the contract furniture manufacturer and contract jobber markets. The JulyOur 2000 acquisition of Teknit Limited, with operations in both the U.K.United Kingdom and Michigan, added three-dimensional knitted upholstery fabrics to our product portfolio, including the fabric often used on the arms of Herman Miller, Inc.’s renowned Aeron chair. All of these developments have reinforced the Fabrics Group’s dominant position with OEMsoriginal equipment manufacturers (OEMs) of movable

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office furniture systems.

     Internationally, the June 1997 acquisition of Camborne Holdings, Ltd., the United Kingdom’s leading textile manufacturer In addition, we manufacture other interior fabrics products, including wall covering fabrics, fabrics used for the officewindow treatments and contract furnishings markets, has enhanced our access to the European and Asia-Pacific markets. The Camborne acquisition also added wool upholstery fabrics specifically designedused for the European market to the Fabrics Group’s product offering. In 1998, we acquired Glenside Fabrics Limited, a United Kingdom based manufacturer of upholstery fabrics for the contract furnishings and leisure markets. The Glenside acquisition further enhanced the Fabrics Group’s European presence. We have now consolidated our Glenside and Camborne manufacturing operations to achieve greater operating efficiencies.cubicle curtains.

     We manufacture fabrics made of 100% polyester, as well as wool-polyester blends and numerous other natural and man-made blends, which are either woven or knitted. Our products feature a high degree of color consistency, natural dimensional stability and fire retardancy, in addition to their overall aesthetic appeal. All of our product lines are color and texture coordinated. We seek continuously to enhance product performance and attractiveness through experimentation with different fibers, dyes, chemicals and manufacturing processes. Product innovation in the interior fabrics market (similar to the floorcoverings market) is important to achieving and maintaining market share.

     We market a line of fabrics manufactured from recycled, recyclable or compostable materials under theTerratex® brand. TheTerratex line includes both new products and traditional product offerings and includes products made from 100% post-consumer recycled polyester, 100% post-industrial recycled polyester and 100% post-consumer recycled wool. The first fabric to bear theTerratex label was Guilford of Maine’sFR-701® line of panel fabrics, and we introduced our firstfabrics. We market seating fabrics carryingunder theTerratex label prior to the year 2000.as well. Over the past few years, we have continued building awareness of theTerratex brand. These products have been well-receivedwell received and are gaining momentum in the market, and we plan to expand our offerings under this label.

     Our InterfaceTekSolutionsTekSolutions®® operations provide the services of laminating fabrics onto substrates for pre-formed panels, coating fabrics with various treatments, warehousing fabrics for third parties, and cutting fabrics and other materials. We believe that significant market opportunities exist for the provision of this and other ancillary textile sequencing and processing services to OEMs and intend to participate in these opportunities.

     We anticipate that future growth opportunities will arise from the growing market for retrofitting services, where fabrics are used to re-cover existing panels. In addition, the increased importance being placed on the aesthetic design of office space should lead to a significant increase in upholstery fabric sales. Our management also believes that additional growth opportunities exist in international sales, domestic healthcare markets, automotive, contract wallcoverings and window treatments.

Marketing and Sales

     Our principal interior fabrics customers are OEMs of movable office furniture systems, and the Fabrics Group sells to essentially all of the major office furniture manufacturers. The Fabrics Group also sells to contract jobbers and to manufacturers and distributors of wallcoverings, vertical blinds, cubicle curtains, acoustical wallboards, ceiling tiles and residential furniture. TheGuilford of Maine, Stevens Linen, Toltec, Intek, Chatham Camborne andGlensideCamborne brand names are well-known in the industry and enhance our fabric marketing efforts.

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     The majority of our interior fabrics sales are made through the Fabrics Group’s own sales force. The sales team works closely with designers, architects, facility planners and other specifiers who influence the purchasing decisions of buyers in the interior fabrics segment. In addition to facilitating sales, the resulting relationships also provide us with marketing and design ideas that are incorporated into the development of new product offerings. The Fabrics Group maintains a design studio in Grand Rapids, Michigan which facilitates coordination between its in-house designers and the design staffs of major customers. Our interior fabrics sales offices and showrooms are located in New York City,City; Grand Rapids, Michigan,Michigan; Elkin, North Carolina,Carolina; High Point, North Carolina,Carolina; Hickory, North Carolina,Carolina; Greensboro, North CarolinaCarolina; and the United Kingdom. The Fabrics Group also has marketing and distribution facilities in Canada, Mexico and Hong Kong, and sales representatives in Japan, Hong Kong, Germany, Singapore, Malaysia, Korea, Australia, United Arab Emirates, Dubai and South Africa. We have sought increasingly, over the past several years, to expand our export business and international operations in the fabrics segment.

Manufacturing

     Our fabrics manufacturing facilities are located in Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan,Maine; Massachusetts; Michigan; North Carolina,Carolina; Nottingham, England, Lancashire, EnglandEngland; Meltham, England; and West Yorkshire,Mirfield, England. The production of synthetic and wool blendedwool-blended fabrics is a relatively complex, multi-step process. Raw fiber and yarn are placed in pressurized vats in

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which dyes are forced into the fiber. Particular attention is devoted to this dyeing process, which requires a high degree of precision and expertise in order to achieve color consistency. All raw materials used by us are readily available from a number of sources. The Fabrics Group also now uses 100% recycled fiber manufactured from PET soda bottles in some of its manufacturing processes.

     In response to a shift in the Fabrics Group’s traditional panel fabric market towards lighter-weight, less expensive products, we implemented a major capital investment program in the mid 1990s that included the construction of a new facility and the acquisition of equipment to enhance the efficiency and breadth of the Fabrics Group’s yarn manufacturing processes. The program improved the Fabrics Group’s cost effectiveness in producing lighter-weight fabrics, reduced manufacturing cycle time and enabled the Fabrics Group to reinforce its product leadership position with its OEM customers. The acquisition of Intek provided us with immediate and significant capabilities in the efficient production of lighter-weight, less expensive panel fabrics, and the acquisition of Camborne provided a European-based manufacturing facility and much needed expertise in the production of wool fabrics. We believe that we have been successful in designing fabrics that have simplified the manufacturing process, thereby reducing complexity while improving efficiency and quality,quality.

OurTekSolutions textile processing operations (including fabric lamination, coating, warehousing and continuecutting) are located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in close proximity to strive to design these products.several large customers of the Fabrics Group.

     The environmental management system of the Fabrics Group’s largest facility, located in Guilford, Maine, has been granted ISO 14001 certification. Our Aberdeen, North Carolina, East Douglas, MaineMassachusetts and West Yorkshire,Meltham, England fabrics manufacturing facilities are also certified under ISO 14001.

We offer textile processing services through the Fabrics Group’s InterfaceTekSolutions operations in Grand Rapids, Michigan. These services include the lamination of fabrics onto substrates for pre-formed office furniture system panels (facilitating easier and more cost effective assembly of the system components by the Fabrics Group’s OEM customers), coating of fabrics with various treatments, warehousing of fabrics for third parties, and cutting of fabrics and other materials.

Competition

     We compete in the interior fabrics market on the basis of product design, quality, reliability, price and service. By historically concentrating on the open plan office furniture systems segment, the Fabrics Group has been able to specialize our manufacturing capabilities, product offerings and service functions, resulting in a leading market position. Management believes we are the largest U.S. manufacturer of panel fabric for use in open plan office furniture systems.

     With the May 2000 acquisition of the Chatham furniture fabrics assets, we became the largest U.S. manufacturer of contract upholstery fabrics for office furniture manufacturers and contract jobbers. We believe we have aour share of the U.S. contract upholstery market shareis nearly double that of our closest competitor.

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     Through our other strategic acquisitions, we have been successfully diversifying our product offerings for the commercial interiors market to include a variety of other fabrics, including three-dimensional knitted upholstery products, cubicle curtains, wallcoverings, ceiling fabrics and window treatments. The competition in these segments of the market is highly fragmented and includes both large, diversified textile companies, several of which have greater financial resources than us, as well as smaller, non-integrated specialty manufacturers. However, our capabilities and strong brand names in these segments should enable us to continue to compete successfully.

Specialty Products

     The InterfaceOur Specialty Products Groupbusiness segment currently is composed of:of Pandel, Inc., which produces vinyl carpet tile backing and specialty mat and foam products;products, and ourIntersept antimicrobial sales and licensing program; and until its strategic disposition is consummated, Interface Architectural Resources, Inc., which produces and marketsprogram. In 2003, we sold our U.S. raised/access flooring systems. Prior to February 2003, the Specialty Products Group also included anbusiness and our adhesives and other specialty chemicals production business.

We believe that the growth in use of open plan interiorscontinue to manufacture and modern office arrangements utilizing demountable, movable partitions and modular furniture systems has encouraged the use of sell ourIntercell® brand raised/access flooring as well as carpet tile, because access flooring, and carpet tile, can accommodate the flexible, under-the-floor cable management and air delivery systems compatible with movable open plan offices. We expect this trendproduct in open office spaces and the proliferation of networks in the workplace, dictating efficient cable management and delivery systems, to present opportunities for future growth in the access flooring market.Europe.

     We sell a proprietary antimicrobial chemical compound under the registered trademarkIntersept. We useIntersept in all of our modular carpet products and have licensedIntersept to other companies for use in a number of products that are noncompetitive with our products, such as paint, vinyl wallcoverings, ceiling tiles and air filters. In addition, we produce and marketFatigue FighterFighter®®, an impact-absorbing modular flooring system typically used where people stand for extended periods.

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Through an agreement with the purchaser of our adhesive and specialty chemicals production business, we continue to February 2003, we manufacturedmarket a line of adhesives for carpet installation, as well as a line of carpet cleaning and maintenance chemicals. This business was sold in February 2003. However, through an agreement with the purchaser, we will continue to market those products (which the purchaser will manufacture on our behalf)chemicals, under theRe:Source Technologies brand through our Re:Source Americas service network.

     Over the past few years, our raised/access flooring business has experienced a significant decline in demand, primarily due to decreased spending by technology companies. In the fourth quarter of 2002, in order to intensify our focus on strategic assets that offer more immediate opportunities for growth and profitability, we decided to sell or otherwise create a joint venture or strategic alliance for our raised/access flooring business. Because of that decision, we reflect that business as discontinued operations, even though we are still manufacturing and selling products pending its disposition. We expect to consummate such a transaction during 2003. brand.

Product Design, Research and Development

     We maintain an active research, development and design staff of over 75 personspeople and also draw on the research and development efforts of our suppliers, particularly in the areas of fibers, yarns and modular carpet backing materials.

     Interface Research (“IRC”)(IRC) provides technical support and advanced materials research and development for the entire family of Interface companies. IRC developed ourNexStepNexStep®® backing, a material based onwhich employs moisture-impervious polycarbite precoating technology combined with a chlorine-free urethane foam secondary backing, andReBacTM, also developed a post-consumer recycled, polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, extruded sheet process that has been incorporated into ourGlasBac RE modular carpet line.backing. Our post-consumerReBacPVC extruded sheet exemplifies our commitment to “closing-the-loop” in recycling. With a goal of supporting sustainable product designs in both floorcoverings and interior fabrics applications, IRC is a frontrunner in evaluating for use in

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our products 100% renewable polymers based on corn-derived polylactic acid (PLA) for use in our products and the development of post-consumer recycling technology for nylon face fibers.
IRC also is continuing its development efforts with resilient textile flooring, a new category of product that combines the functional and aesthetic benefits of resilient flooring and carpet.

     IRC is the home of our EcoSense initiative and supports the dissemination, consultancies and technical communication of our global sustainability endeavors. In addition, IRC’s President also serves as the Chairman of the Envirosense Consortium.Consortium, an organization concerned with addressing workplace environmental issues. IRC’s laboratories provide all biochemical and technical support toInterseptantimicrobial product initiatives, which initiatives were the basis for founding the Consortium and for its focus on indoor air quality.

     Innovation and increased customization in product design and styling are the principal focus of our product development efforts at both IRC and our manufacturing locations. Our carpet design and development team is recognized as the industry leader in carpet design and product engineering for the commercial and institutional markets. In cooperationSince our relationship with Oakey Designs began, we have introduced over 147150 new carpet designs since they began providing services to us and have enjoyed considerable success in winning U.S. carpet industry awards.

     David Oakey Designs also contributed to our implementation of the product development concept — “simple inputs, pretty outputs” — resulting in the ability to efficiently produce many products from a single yarn system. Our mass customization production approach evolved, in major part, from this concept. In addition to increasing the number and variety of product designs, which enables us to increase high margin custom sales, the mass customization approach increases inventory turns and reduces inventory levels (for both raw materials and standard products) and their related costs because of our more rapid and flexible production capabilities.

     More recently, Mr. Oakeyour newi2 product line — which includes ourEntropy, Transformation, FrequencyandCubic modular carpet products — has revolutionized the design of modular carpet withand is defining the introduction ofstandards for modular carpet today, across market segments and around the world. These standards are based on the features that ouri2 line is pioneering: random patterning, mergeable dye lots, cost-efficient installation and maintenance, interactive flexibility and recycled and recyclable materials. These products such asEntropy, which may be installed without regard to the directional orientation of the carpet tile or the dye lot infrom which the carpet tile was manufactured. These products, which are the subject of our new i2 marketing campaign,manufactured, and their features also make installation, maintenance and replacement of modular carpet easier, less expensive and less wasteful.

     Oakey Designs’ services, which have been integral in the development of ouri2 product line, have been extended from a primary focus on domestic carpet tile to our international carpet tile operations as well as our broadloom operations. We have renewed ourOur exclusive consulting agreement with Oakey Designs extends through May 2006, which may be extended for five additional years.2006. In addition, we have retained the design services of the highly-regarded firm Suzanne Tick, Inc., affiliated with Tuva Looms, Inc., a manufacturer ofcarpet company known

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for high-end, design-forward woven carpets, to assist us with developing broadloom designs and area rugs for ourPrince Street brand.

Environmental Initiatives

     In the latter part of 1994, we commenced a new industrial ecology initiative called EcoSense, inspired in major part by the interest of important customers concerned about the environmental implications of how they and their suppliers do business. However, our goal and commitment to achieving ecological sustainability preceded the market’s interest. EcoSense, which includes our QUEST waste reduction initiative, is directed towards the elimination of energy and raw materials waste in our businesses, and, on a broader and more long-term scale, the practical reclamation — and ultimate restoration — of shared environmental resources. The initiative involves a commitment by us:

 • to learn to meet our raw material and energy needs through recycling of carpet and other petrochemical products and harnessing benign energy sources; and
 
 • to pursue the creation of new processes to help sustain the earth’s non-renewable natural resources.

     We have engaged some of the world’s leading authorities on global ecology as environmental advisors. The list of advisors includes: Paul Hawken, author ofThe Ecology of Commerce: A Declaration of SustainabilityandThe Next Economy, and co-author with Amory Lovins and Hunter Lovins ofNatural Capitalism: Creating the Next Industrial Revolution;Mr. Lovins, energy consultant and co-founder of the Rocky Mountain Institute; Ms. Lovins, President and Executive Director of the Natural Capital Institute; John Picard, President of E2, American environmental consultant; Environmental Enterprises; Jonathan Porritt, director of Forum for the

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Future; Bill Browning, director of the Rocky Mountain Institute’s Green Development Services; Dr. Karl-Henrik Robert, founder of The Natural Step; Janine M. Benyus, author ofBiomimicry;Biomimicryand; Walter Stahel, Swiss businessman and seminal thinker on environmentally responsible commerce.commerce; and Bob Fox, renowned architect.

     Another one of our initiatives over the past several years has been the development of the Envirosense Consortium, an organization of companies concerned with addressing workplace environmental issues, particularly poor indoor air quality. The Envirosense Consortium’s member organizations include interior products manufacturers (at least one of which is a licensee of ourInterseptantimicrobial agent) and design professionals.

     We believe thatOur leadership, knowledge and expertise in this area, especially in the “green building” movement and the related LEED certification program, resonate deeply with many of our environmental initiatives are valued by our employees and an increasing number of important customers and prospects around the globe, and these businesses are increasingly making purchase decisions based on “green” factors. As more customers in our target markets share our view that sustainability is good business and not just good deeds, our acknowledged leadership position should provide a competitivedifferentiated advantage in marketing products to those customers. We also believe that the resulting long-term resource efficiency (reduction of wasted environmental resources) has produced and will continue to produce cost savings and significant marketing advantages to us.competing for their business.

Backlog

     Our backlog of unshipped orders (including(excluding the discontinued operations of our U.S. raised/access flooring business) was approximately $121.0$129.1 million at March 16, 2003,1, 2004, compared to approximately $135.9$122.5 million at March 17, 2002.1, 2003. Historically, backlog is subject to significant fluctuations due to the timing of orders for individual large projects and currency fluctuations. All of the backlog of orders at March 16, 20031, 2004 are expected to be shipped during the succeeding six to nine months.

Patents and Trademarks

     We own numerous patents in the United States and abroad on floorcovering and raised/access flooring products, on manufacturing processes and on the use of ourInterseptantimicrobial chemical agent in various products. The duration of United States patents is between 14 and 20 years from the date of filing of a patent application or issuance of the patent; the duration of patents issued in other countries varies from country to country. We consider our know-how and technology more important to our current business than patents, and, accordingly, believe that expiration of existing patents or nonissuance of patents under pending applications

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would not have a material adverse effect on our operations. However, we maintain an active patent and trade secret program in order to protect our proprietary technology, know-how and trade secrets.

     We also own numerousmany trademarks in the United States and abroad. In addition to the United States, the primary countries in which we have registered our trademarks are the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, France, Canada, Australia, Japan, and various countries in Central and South America. Some of our more prominent registered trademarks include:Interface, Heuga, Intersept, GlasBac, Re:Source, Guilford, Guilford of Maine, Bentley, Prince Street, Intercell, Chatham, Camborne, Glenside, TerratexandFR-701. Trademark registrations in the United States are valid for a period of 10 years and are renewable for additional 10-year periods as long as the mark remains in actual use. The duration of trademarks registered in other countries varies from country to country.

Financial Information by Operating Segments and Geographic Areas

     The Notes to our Consolidated Financial Statements appearing in Item 8 of this Report set forth information concerning our sales, income and assets by operating segments, and our sales and long-lived assets by geographic areas. SeeAdditional information regarding sales by operating segment is set forth in Item 8.7, “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operation.”

Employees

     At December 29, 2002,28, 2003, we employed a total of approximately 5,5005,210 employees worldwide. Of such employees, approximately 2,2502,390 are clerical, sales, supervisory and management personnel and the balance2,820 are manufacturing and carpet service/installation personnel. We also utilized approximately 210 temporary personnel as of December 28, 2003.

     Some of the service businesses within theRe:Source Americas service network have employee groups that are represented by unions. In addition, some of our production employees in Australia and the United Kingdom are represented by unions. In the Netherlands, a Works Council, the members of which are

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Interface employees, is required to be consulted by management with respect to certain matters relating to our operations in that country, such as a change in control of Interface Europe B.V. (our modular carpet subsidiary based in the Netherlands), and the approval of the Council is required for certain actions, including changes in compensation scales or employee benefits. Our management believes that its relations with the Works Council, the unions and all of its employees are good.

Environmental Matters

     Our operations are subject to federal, state and local laws and regulations relating to the generation, storage, handling, emission, transportation and discharge of materials into the environment. The costs of complying with environmental protection laws and regulations have not had a material adverse impact on our financial condition or results of operations in the past and are not expected to have a material adverse impact in the future. The environmental management systems of our floorcovering manufacturing facilities in LaGrange, Georgia, West Point, Georgia, West Yorkshire, England, Northern Ireland, Australia, the Netherlands, Canada and Thailand are certified under ISO 14001. The environmental management systemsystems of the Fabrics Group’s facilities in Guilford, Maine, East Douglas, Maine, Aberdeen, North Carolina,Massachusetts, and West Yorkshire,Meltham, England are also certified under ISO 14001.

Safe Harbor Compliance Statement for Forward-Looking Statements

     This report on Form 10-K contains statements which may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Those statements include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectations of our management team, as well as the assumptions on which such statements are based. Any forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated by such forward-looking statements. Important factors currently known to management that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include risks and

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uncertainties associated with economic conditions in the commercial interiors industry as well as the risks and uncertainties discussed immediately below. We undertake no obligation to update or revise forward-looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events or changes to future operating results over time.

We compete with a large number of manufacturers in the highly competitive commercial floorcovering products market, and some of these competitors have greater financial resources than we do.

     The commercial floorcovering industry is highly competitive. Globally, we compete for sales of floorcovering products with other carpet manufacturers and manufacturers of vinyl and other types of floorcovering. Although the industry has experienced significant consolidation, a large number of manufacturers remain in the industry. We believe that we are the largest manufacturer of modular carpet in the world. However, a number of domestic and foreign competitors manufacture modular carpet as one segment of their business, and some of these competitors have greater financial resources than we do.

Sales of our principal products have been and may continue to be affected by cycles in the construction and renovation of commercial and institutional buildings.

     Sales of our principal products are related to the construction and renovation of commercial and institutional buildings. This activity is cyclical and can behas been affected by the strength of a country’s or region’s general economy, prevailing interest rates and other factors that lead to cost control measures by businesses and other users of commercial or institutional space. The effects of cyclicality upon the commercialcorporate office sectorsegment tend to be more pronounced than the effects upon the institutional sector.segment. Historically, we have generated more sales in the commercialcorporate office sectorsegment than in other markets. The effects of cyclicality upon the new construction sectorsegment of the market also tend to be more pronounced than the effects upon the renovation sector. Although the predominant portion of our sales are generated from the renovation sector, anysegment. The recent adverse

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cycle in either sector of the market, would lessenhas significantly lessened the overall demand for commercial interiors products, which could impairhas adversely affected our growth (as has happened inbusiness during the past few years).
several years. These effects may continue and could be more pronounced if the global economy does not improve or is further weakened.

Our continued success depends significantly upon the efforts, abilities and continued service of our senior management executives and our design consultants.

     We believe that our continued success will dependdepends to a significant extent upon the efforts and abilities of our senior management executives. In addition, we rely significantly on the leadership that David Oakey of David Oakey Designs, Inc. provides to our internal design staff. Specifically, Oakey Designs provides product design/production engineering services to us under an exclusive consulting contract that contains non-competition covenants. We have renewed ourOur current agreement with Oakey Designs for a five-year term throughextends to May 2006. The loss of any key personnel or key design consultants could have an adverse impact on our business.

Our substantial international operations are subject to various political, economic and other uncertainties.

     We have substantial international operations. In fiscal 2002,2003, approximately 33%36% of our net sales and a significant portion of our production were outside the United States, primarily in Europe but also in Asia-Pacific. Our corporate strategy includes the expansion and growth of our international business on a worldwide basis. As a result, our operations are subject to various political, economic and other uncertainties, including risks of restrictive taxation policies, changing political conditions and governmental regulations. We also make a substantial portion of our net sales in currencies other than U.S. dollars, which subjects us to the risks inherent in currency translations. Our ability to manufacture and ship products from facilities in several foreign countries reduces the risks of foreign currency fluctuations we might otherwise experience, and we also engage from time to time in hedging programs intended to reduce those risks further. Despite these precautions, the scope and volume of our global operations make it impossible to eliminate completely all foreign currency translation risks as an influence on our financial results.

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Our Chairman, together with other insiders, currently has sufficient voting power to elect a majority of our Board of Directors.

     Our Chairman, Ray C. Anderson, beneficially owns approximately 47%48% of the Company’sour outstanding Class B Common Stock. The holders of the Class B Common Stock are entitled, as a class, to elect a majority of our Board of Directors. Therefore, Mr. Anderson, together with other insiders, has sufficient voting power to elect a majority of the Board of Directors. On all other matters submitted to the shareholders for a vote, the holders of the Class B Common Stock generally vote together as a single class with the holders of the Class A Common Stock. Mr. Anderson’s beneficial ownership of the outstanding Class A and Class B Common Stock combined is less than 10%approximately 7%.

Large increases in the cost of petroleum-based raw materials, which we are unable to pass through to our customers, could adversely affect us.

     Petroleum-based products comprise the predominant portion of the cost of raw materials that we use in manufacturing. While we attempt to match cost increases with corresponding price increases, large increases in the cost of petroleum-based raw materials could adversely affect our financial results if we are unable to pass through such price increases in raw material costs to our customers.

Unanticipated termination or interruption of any of our arrangements with our primary third-party suppliers of synthetic fiber could have a material adverse effect on us.

     Invista Inc., a subsidiary of E.I. DuPont de Nemours and Company, currently supplies a significant percentage of our requirements for synthetic fiber (nylon), which is the principal raw material that we use in our carpet products. (As of March 1, 2004, we understand that DuPont has agreed in principle to sell Invista to Koch Industries, Inc.) In addition, certain other of our businesses have a high degree of dependence on their third party suppliers of synthetic fiber for certain products or markets. While we believe that there are adequate alternative sources of supply from which we could fulfill our synthetic fiber requirements, the unanticipated termination or interruption of

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any of our supply arrangements with our current suppliers could have a material adverse effect on us because of the cost and delay associated with shifting more business to another supplier.

We have a significant amount of indebtedness which could have important negative consequences to us.

     Our substantial indebtedness could have important negative consequences to us, including: making it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations with respect to such indebtedness; increasing our vulnerability to adverse general economic and industry conditions and adverse changes in governmental regulations; limiting our ability to obtain additional financing to fund capital expenditures, acquisitions and other general corporate requirements; requiring us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to payments on our indebtedness, thereby reducing the availability of our cash flow to fund capital expenditures, acquisitions or other general corporate purposes; limiting our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industry in which we operate; and placing us at a competitive disadvantage compared to our less leveraged competitors.

Our Rights Agreement could discourage tender offers or other transactions that could result in shareholders receiving a premium over the market price for our stock.

     Our Board of Directors has adopted a Rights Agreement pursuant to which holders of our common stock will be entitled to purchase from us a fraction of a share of our Series B Participating Cumulative Preferred Stock if a third party acquires beneficial ownership of 15% or more of our common stock without our consent. In addition, the holders of our common stock will be entitled to purchase the stock of an Acquiring Person (as defined in the Rights Agreement) at a discount upon the occurrence of certain triggering events. These provisions of the Rights Agreement could have the effect of discouraging tender offers or other transactions that could result in shareholders receiving a premium over the market price for our common stock.

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Executive Officers of the Registrant

     Our executive officers, their ages as of March 15, 20031, 2004 and their principal positions with us are as follows. Executive officers serve at the pleasure of the Board of Directors.

       
NameAgePrincipal Position(s)



Daniel T. Hendrix  4849  President and Chief Executive Officer
Michael D. Bertolucci  62Senior Vice President
Brian L. DeMoura5763  Senior Vice President
John R. Wells  4142  Senior Vice President
Raymond S. Willoch  4445  Senior Vice President-Administration, General Counsel and Secretary
Robert A. Coombs  4445  Vice President
Lindsey K. Parnell  4546  Vice President
Patrick C. Lynch  3334  Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Christopher J. Richard47Vice President
Jeffrey J. Roman41Vice President

     Mr. Hendrixjoined us in 1983 after having worked previously for a national accounting firm. He was promoted to Treasurer in 1984, Chief Financial Officer in 1985, Vice President — FinancePresident-Finance in 1986, Senior Vice President in October 1995 and Executive Vice President in October 2000. Mr. Hendrix became our President and Chief Executive Officer effective July 1, 2001. He has been a Director of the Company since October 1996, and has served on the Executive Committee of the Board since July 2001.

     Dr. Bertoluccijoined us in April 1996 as President of Interface Research Corporation and Senior Vice President.President of Interface. Dr. Bertolucci also serves as Chairman of the Envirosense Consortium, which was founded by Interface and focuses on addressing workplace environmental issues. From October 1989 until joining us, he was Vice President of Technology for Highland Industries, an industrial fabricfabrics company located in Greensboro, North Carolina.

     Mr. DeMourajoined us in March 1994 as President and Chief Executive Officer of Guilford of Maine, Inc. (now Interface Fabrics Group, Inc.) and Senior Vice President. He is responsible for the Fabrics Group, which includes the following brands:Guilford of Maine, Stevens Linen, Toltec, Intek, Chatham, Camborne andGlenside.

Mr. Wellsjoined us in February 1994 as Vice President-Sales of Interface Flooring Systems, Inc. (our principal U.S. modular carpet subsidiary) and was promoted to Senior Vice President-Sales & Marketing of IFS in October 1994. He was promoted to Vice President of the Company,Interface and President of IFS in July 1995. In March 1998, Mr. Wells was also named President of both Prince Street Technologies, Ltd. and Bentley Mills, Inc., making him at that time President of all three of our U.S. carpet mills. In November 1999, Mr. Wells was named Senior Vice President of the Company,Interface, and President and CEO of Interface Americas Holdings, Inc. (formerly Interface Americas, Inc.), thereby assuming operations responsibility for all of our businesses in the Americas, except for the Fabrics Group.

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     Mr. Willoch, who previously practiced with an Atlanta law firm, joined us in June 1990 as Corporate Counsel. He was promoted to Assistant Secretary in 1991, Assistant Vice President in 1993, Vice President in January 1996, Secretary and General Counsel in August 1996, and Senior Vice President in February 1998. In July 2001, he was named Senior Vice President-Administration and assumed corporate responsibility for various staff functions.

     Mr. Coombsoriginally worked for us from 1988 to 1993 as a marketing manager for ourHeugacarpet tile operations in the U.K.United Kingdom and later for all of our European floorcovering operations. In 1996, Mr. Coombs returned to the Companyus as Managing Director of our Australian operations. He was promoted in 1998 to Vice President-Sales and Marketing, Asia-Pacific, with responsibility for Australian operations and sales and marketing in Asia, which was followed by a promotion to Senior Vice President, Asia-Pacific. He was promoted to Senior Vice President, European Sales, in May 1999 and Senior Vice President, European Sales and Marketing, in April 2000. In February 2001, he was promoted to President and CEO of Interface Overseas Holdings, Inc. with responsibility for all of our floorcoverings operations in both Europe and the Asia-Pacific region, and he became a Vice President of the Company.Interface. In September 2002, Mr. Coombs relocated back to Australia, retaining responsibility for our floorcovering operations in the Asia-Pacific region while Mr. Parnell (see below) assumed responsibility for floorcovering operations in Europe.

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     Mr. Parnellwas the Production Director for Firth Carpets (our former European broadloom operations) at the time it was acquired by the Companyus in 1997. In 1998, Mr. Parnell was promoted to Vice President, Operations for the U.K.,United Kingdom, and in 1999 he was promoted to Senior Vice President, Operations for our entire European floorcovering division. In September 2002, he was promoted to President and CEO of our floorcovering operations in Europe, and he became a Vice President of the CompanyInterface in October 2002.

     Mr. Lynchjoined us in 1996 after having previously worked for a national accounting firm. He was promoted tobecame Assistant Corporate Controller in 1998 and Assistant Vice President and Corporate Controller in 2000. Mr. Lynch becamewas promoted to Vice President and Chief Financial Officer in July 2001.

Mr. Richard joined us in July 2003 as President of the Interface Fabrics Group and Vice President of Interface. From August 2002 through March 2003, he was a senior vice president of Collins & Aikman, Inc. with responsibilities in its fabrics business. From January 1997 through March 2002, Mr. Richard was a senior vice president of Guilford Mills, Inc., a fabrics company, and served as president of its automotive group.

Mr. Roman joined us in 1995 as General Manager of Interface Modernform Company Ltd., our modular carpet joint venture in Thailand, and was promoted to Vice President of Manufacturing for Asia in 1996. In 1998, he moved to Interface Americas, Inc. with responsibility for implementing Y2K-compliant manufacturing systems in all North American carpet operations. In 2000, Mr. Roman was named Vice President of Technical Development for Interface Americas, Inc., and, in 2001, he was named Vice President of Information Services and Business Systems for Interface Americas, Inc. In February 2004, Mr. Roman was promoted to Vice President of Interface and assumed responsibility for the creation of an information technology shared service function for Interface Americas, Inc. and the Interface Fabrics Group.

Available Information

     Effective December 9, 2002, weWe make available free of charge on or through our Internet website our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as soon as reasonably practicable after we electronically file such material with, or furnish it to, the SEC. Our Internet address is http://www.interfaceinc.com.

ITEM 2.ITEM 2.     PROPERTIES

     We maintain our corporate headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia in approximately 20,000 square feet of leased space. The following table lists our principal manufacturing facilities and other material physical locations, all of which we own except as otherwise noted:

       
Floor Space
LocationSegment(s)Segment(Sq. Ft.)



Bangkok, Thailand(1) Floorcoverings Products/Service (Modular)Modular  66,072 
Craigavon, N. Ireland Floorcoverings Products/Service (Modular)Modular  80,986 
LaGrange, Georgia Floorcoverings Products/Service (Modular)Modular  375,000 
Ontario (Belleville), Canada Floorcoverings Products/Service (Modular)Modular  77,000 
Picton, Australia Floorcoverings Products/Service (Modular)Modular  96,300 
Scherpenzeel, the Netherlands Floorcoverings Products/Service (Modular); Specialty Products (Access Flooring)Modular  229,734 
Shelf, England Floorcoverings Products/Service (Modular, Vinyl Flooring)Modular  206,882 
West Point, Georgia Floorcoverings Products/Service (Modular)Modular  250,000 
City of Industry, California(2)Broadloom539,641
Aberdeen, North CarolinaFabrics104,284
East Douglas, MassachusettsFabrics306,225
Elkin, North CarolinaFabrics1,475,413
Grand Rapids, Michigan(2)Fabrics118,263
Guilford, MaineFabrics408,511

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Floor Space
LocationSegment(s)Segment(Sq. Ft.)



City of Industry, California(2)Floorcoverings Products/Service (Broadloom)539,641
Aberdeen, North CarolinaInterior Fabrics104,284
Dudley, MassachusettsInterior Fabrics241,308
East Douglas, MassachusettsInterior Fabrics306,225
Elkin, North CarolinaInterior Fabrics1,475,413
Grand Rapids, Michigan(2)Interior Fabrics118,263
Guilford, Maine Interior Fabrics408,511
Guilford, MaineInterior Fabrics  96,490 
Lancashire, England(2)Interior Fabrics33,914
Newport, Maine Interior Fabrics  173,973 
Nottingham, England(2) Interior Fabrics  12,500 
West Yorkshire, EnglandMeltham, England(2) Interior Fabrics  168,000 
Mirfield, England Interior Fabrics  112,000 
Cartersville, Georgia(2) Specialty Products (Specialty Mats)  53,000 
Grand Rapids, MichiganSpecialty Products (Access Flooring)120,000
Kennesaw, Georgia (2)Georgia(2) Research and Development  19,247 


(1) Owned by a joint venture in which the Company haswe have a 70% interest.
 
(2) Leased.

     We maintain marketing offices in over 75 locations in over 30 countries and distribution facilities in approximately 40 locations in six countries. Most of our marketing locations and many of our distribution facilities are leased.

     We believe that our manufacturing and distribution facilities and our marketing offices are sufficient for our present operations. We will continue, however, to consider the desirability of establishing additional facilities and offices in other locations around the world as part of our business strategy to meet expanding global market demands.

ITEM 3.     LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

     We are not aware of any material pending legal proceedings involving us, or any of our subsidiaries or any of our property. We are from time to time a party to litigation arising in the ordinary course of business.

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

     No matters were submitted to a vote of security holders during the fourth quarter of the fiscal year covered by this Report.

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PART II

 
ITEM 5.MARKET FOR THE REGISTRANT’S COMMON STOCK AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

     Our Class A Common Stock is traded on Thethe Nasdaq Stock Market under the symbol IFSIA. Our Class B Common Stock is not publicly traded andbut is convertible into Class A Common Stock on a one-for-one basis. The following table sets forth for the periods indicated the high and low closing sales prices of the

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Company’s Class A Common Stock on the Nasdaq Stock Market and the dividends paid per share of Common Stock.
           
HighLowDividends



2004
2004
 
First Quarter (through March 1, 2004) $8.05 $5.53  
2003
2003
 
First Quarter $3.95 $2.64  
           Second Quarter 4.50 2.62  
HighLowDividendsThird Quarter 6.35 4.50  



Fourth Quarter 6.25 5.00  
2002
2002
 
2002
 
First Quarter $7.15 $4.00 $0.015 First Quarter $7.15 $4.00 $0.015 
Second Quarter 10.05 6.00 0.015 Second Quarter 10.05 6.00 0.015 
Third Quarter 8.39 3.82 0.015 Third Quarter 8.39 3.82 0.015 
Fourth Quarter 4.50 1.97  Fourth Quarter 4.50 1.97  
Fiscal Year 2002 10.05 1.97 0.045 
2001
 
First Quarter $10.44 $6.25 $0.045 
Second Quarter 8.06 6.00 0.045 
Third Quarter 6.27 4.00 0.045 
Fourth Quarter 6.19 3.75 0.015 
Fiscal Year 2001 10.44 3.75 0.150 

     The declaration and payment of dividends is at the discretion of our Board, and depends upon, among other things, our investment policy and opportunities, results of operations, financial condition, cash requirements, future prospects, and other factors that may be considered relevant by our Board at the time of its determination. Such other factors include certain limitations in covenants contained in our primary revolving credit facility and in the indentures governing certain of our public indebtedness. As a result of restrictions resulting fromrelating to the fixed charges coverage ratio covenant contained in the indentures for two of our outstanding series of public debt, in the third quarter of 2002 we suspended our dividend payments until such time as we again achieve compliance with those restrictionssuch covenant and our Board determines that a resumption of dividend payments is proper in light of all the factors indicated above.

     As of March 17, 2003,1, 2004, we had 974938 holders of record of our Class A Common Stock and 5256 holders of record of our Class B Common Stock. We believe that there are in excess of 5,500 beneficial holders of theour Class A Common Stock. See Part III, Item 12 for information concerning our equity compensation plans.

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ITEM  6.ITEM 6.     SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
                                       
Selected Financial InformationSelected Financial Data(1)
2002200120001999199820032002200120001999










(In thousands, except share data)(In thousands, except share data and ratios)
Annual Operating Data(1)Annual Operating Data(1) Annual Operating Data(1) 
Net salesNet sales $924,084 $1,058,846 $1,223,895 $1,189,585 $1,253,349 Net sales $923,509 $924,084 $1,058,846 $1,223,895 $1,189,585 
Cost of salesCost of sales 659,910 746,320 844,447 813,212 823,557 Cost of sales 670,532 659,910 746,320 844,447 813,212 
Operating income (loss)(2)Operating income (loss)(2) 15,156 (1,090) 66,853 76,456 92,653 Operating income (loss)(2) 15,475 15,156 (1,090) 66,853 76,456 
Income (loss) from continuing operationsIncome (loss) from continuing operations (17,759) (25,921) 17,063 23,732 31,876 Income (loss) from continuing operations (18,410) (17,759) (25,921) 17,063 23,732 
Discontinued operationsDiscontinued operations (14,525) (10,366) 258 (187) (2,053)Discontinued operations (14,847) (14,525) (10,366) 258 (187)
Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle(3)Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle(3) (55,380)     Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle(3)  (55,380)    
Net income (loss)Net income (loss) (87,664) (36,287) 17,321 23,545 29,823 Net income (loss) (33,257) (87,664) (36,287) 17,321 23,545 

Income (loss) from continuing operations per common shareIncome (loss) from continuing operations per common share Income (loss) from continuing operations per common share 
Basic $(0.36) $(0.52) $0.34 $0.45 $0.62 Basic $(0.36) $(0.36) $(0.52) $0.34 $0.45 
Diluted $(0.36) $(0.52) $0.34 $0.45 $0.59 Diluted $(0.36) $(0.36) $(0.52) $0.34 $0.45 
Average Shares OutstandingAverage Shares Outstanding Average Shares Outstanding 
Basic 50,194 50,099 50,558 52,562 51,808 Basic 50,282 50,194 50,099 50,558 52,562 
Diluted 50,194 50,099 50,824 52,803 53,735 Diluted 50,282 50,194 50,099 50,824 52,803 
Cash dividends per common shareCash dividends per common share $0.045 $0.15 $0.18 $0.18 $0.165 Cash dividends per common share $ $0.045 $0.15 $0.18 $0.18 
Property additions(4)Property additions(4) 14,344 30,081 46,406 37,278 66,145 Property additions(4) (16,328) 14,344 30,081 46,406 37,278 
Depreciation and amortizationDepreciation and amortization 35,328 46,421 49,586 44,606 41,514 Depreciation and amortization 37,257 35,328 46,421 49,586 44,606 

Balance Sheet DataBalance Sheet Data Balance Sheet Data 
Working capitalWorking capital $197,809 $224,282 $247,235 $223,734 $219,838 Working capital $168,490 $197,809 $224,282 $247,235 $223,734 
Total assetsTotal assets 863,510 954,754 1,034,849 1,028,495 1,036,864 Total assets 894,274 863,510 954,754 1,034,849 1,028,495 
Total long-term debt(5)Total long-term debt(5) 445,000 448,494 415,858 395,618 383,937 Total long-term debt(5) 445,000 445,000 448,494 415,858 395,618 
Shareholders’ equityShareholders’ equity 224,171 302,475 372,435 389,192 398,824 Shareholders’ equity 218,733 224,171 302,475 372,435 389,192 
Book value per share 4.38 5.95 7.33 7.52 7.60 
Current ratioCurrent ratio 2.2 2.3 2.2 2.1 1.9 Current ratio 1.9 2.2 2.3 2.2 2.1 


(1) In the fourth quarter of 2002, we decided to discontinue the operations related to our U.S. raised/access flooring business. Substantially all of the assets related to these operations were sold in the third quarter of 2003. The balances for the current year and prior years have been adjusted to reflect the discontinued operations of our raised/access flooringthat business. For further analysis see “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements — Discontinued Operations” included in Item 8 of this Report.
 
(2) Includes restructuring charges of $6.2 million, $23.4 million, $54.6 million, $21.0 million and $1.1 million in years 2003, 2002, 2001, 2000 and 1999, respectively. We initiated three separate restructuring plans during 2002, 2001 and 2000. The 2003 charge was recognized with respect to the restructuring plan initiated in 2002. For further analysis of these restructuring plans and charges see “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” included at Item 8 of this Report. Additionally, in 1998 we initiated a restructuring plan in response to the slowdown in the Asian economy, our decision to exit the commodity-end products business in Japan, our implementation of a shared services strategy in the U.K., and the closure of two manufacturing facilities and the abandonment of other manufacturing equipment. We recognized restructuring charges with respect to this plan of $1.1 million in 1999 and $25.3 million in years 2002, 2001, 2000, 1999 and 1998, respectively.1998.

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(3) Includes, inIn 2002, the adjustment requiredwe recognized an impairment charge of $55.4 million (after-tax) related to reflect the initialour adoption of SFASStatement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 142.142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.” For more information see “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” included in Item 8 of this Report.
 
(4) Includes property and equipment obtained in acquisitionacquisitions of business.businesses.
(5) Total long-term debt does not include receivables sold under our receivables securitization program, which was terminated in June 2003 in connection with the amendment and restatement of our revolving credit facility. As of January 3, 1999, January 2, 2000, December 31, 2000, December 30, 2001 and December 29, 2002, we had sold receivables of $45.6 million, $40.0 million, $54.0 million, $34.0 million and $30.0 million, respectively.

 
ITEM 7.MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

General

     Our revenues are derived from sales of floorcovering products (primarily modular and broadloom carpet) and related services, interior fabrics raised/access flooring and other specialty products. Our business, as well as the commercial interiors market in general, is cyclical in nature and is impacted by economic conditions

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and trends that affect the markets for commercial and institutional business space. Our financial performance in recent years has been strongly tied to the corporate office segment, although we have begun to focus more of our marketing and sales efforts on non-corporate office segments to reduce in part our exposure to certain economic cycles that affect the corporate office market segment more adversely, as well as to capture additional market share.

     Since 1999 (except for a modest rebound during the latter portion of 2000), the commercial interiors market as a whole, and the broadloom carpet market in particular, has experienced decreased demand levels. The general downturn in the domestic and international economy that characterized most of 2001, 2002 and 2003 further adversely affected the commercial interiors market, especially in the U.S. corporate office segment. These conditions significantly impaired our growth and profitability.

     Because we have substantial international operations, we are impacted, from time to time, by certain international developments that affect foreign currency transactions. For example, the performance of the Euroeuro against the U.S. dollar, for purposes of the translation of European revenues into U.S. dollars, adversely affected us to varying degrees in both 2000 and 2001, when the Euroeuro was weak relative to the U.S. dollar. In 2002 and 2003, however, when the Euroeuro strengthened relative to the U.S. dollar, the translation of European revenues into U.S. dollars favorably affected us.our reported results.

     During 2002,2003, we had net sales of $923.5 million and a net loss of $33.3 million, or $0.66 per share (after giving effect to $6.2 million of pre-tax restructuring charges) compared with net sales of $924.1 million and a net loss of $87.7 million, or $1.75 per diluted share, afterduring 2002 (after giving effect to a $55.4 million after-tax write-down in 2002 associated with the implementation of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 142 and a $23.4 million pre-tax restructuring charge, compared withcharge). For further comparison, in 2001, we had net sales of $1.059 billion and a net loss of $36.3 million, or $0.72 per diluted share, during 2001 after giving effect to a $54.6 million pre-tax restructuring charge in that year. Net sales for 2002 consisted of floorcovering products (primarily modular and broadloom carpet) and related services ($710.0 million), interior fabrics sales ($199.3 million) and other specialty products sales ($14.8 million), accounting for 76.8%, 21.6% and 1.6%, respectively, of total sales. Net sales for 2001 consisted of sales of floorcovering products and related services ($833.8 million), interior fabrics sales ($209.9 million) and other specialty products sales ($15.1 million), accounting for 78.8%, 19.8% and 1.4% of total sales, respectively.

     All amounts (except for net income or loss) and percentages above for all periods exclude our U.S. raised/access flooring business, which we sold in September 2003 and, as discussed below, we are reporting as “discontinued operations” as discussed below.for such prior periods.

Discontinued Operations of Our U.S. Raised/Access Flooring Business

     OverIn the past few years,fourth quarter of 2002, we decided to discontinue our operation of our U.S. raised/access flooring business, haswhich had experienced a significant decline in demand, primarily due to decreased spending by technology companies. As a result, inWe completed the fourth quarter of 2002, we decided to discontinue our operation of our raised/access flooring business, either by an outright sale of that businesssubstantially all of its assets to a third party or through creation of a joint venture or other strategic alliance with a third party to conduct that business. We expect to consummate a transaction under one of those approaches in September 2003. As required by SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets,” we have therefore reported the results of operations for the U.S. raised/access flooring business, for all periods reflected herein, as “discontinued operations.” As a result, our discussion of revenues or sales and other results of

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operations (except for net income or loss amounts), including percentages derived from or based on such amounts, excludes the results of our U.S. raised/access flooring business unless we indicate otherwise.

     TheOur U.S. raised/access flooring business represented revenues of $13.6 million, $22.8 million, $45.1 million and $60.1$45.1 million in years 2003, 2002 2001 and 2000,2001, respectively. Loss from operations of the raised/access flooringthat business, net of tax, was $3.9 million, $2.5 million and $10.4 million in years 2003, 2002 and 2001, respectively (including pre-tax restructuring charges of $10.5 million in 2001 related to consolidation in the raised/access flooring business) in years 2002 and 2001, respectively; in 2000, income from operations of that business, net of tax, was $0.3 million.activities). We recorded an impairment charge of $12.0 million, net of tax, during the fourth quarter of 2002 to adjust the carrying value of the assets of that business to their net realizable value. In addition, in the third quarter of 2003, we recorded an after-tax loss of $8.8 million in connection with disposition of the assets.

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Impact of Strategic Restructuring Initiatives

     As indicated above, we incurred substantial pre-tax restructuring charges in 2003, 2002 and 2001 and 2000  $6.2 million, $23.4 million and $54.6 million and $21.0(excluding $10.5 million related to the discontinued operations of our U.S. raised/access flooring business), respectively — as we implemented various initiatives to reduce our operating costs and strengthen our ability to generate free cash flow.

     The charge in 2003 reflected:

• further rationalization of our Re:Source operations;
• continuation of the consolidation and rationalization commenced in 2002 with respect to three fabrics manufacturing facilities; and
• a reduction in force and consolidation of our corporate research and development operation.

     The charge in 2002 reflected:

 • consolidation of three fabrics manufacturing facilities into other facilities;
 
 • further rationalization of theour Re:Source Americas operations;
 
 • a reduction in force of over 200 employees; and
 
 • consolidation of certain European facilities.

     The charge in 2001 reflected:

 • the closure of our European broadloom facility;
 
 • further rationalization of our U.S. broadloom operations and certain European modular back-office operations;
 
 • a reduction in force of over 800 employees; and
 
 • the consolidation of certain non-strategic Re:Source Americas operations.

     The 2003 restructuring charge in 2000 reflected:

• the integration of our U.S. broadloom operations into a single manufacturing location;
• the consolidation of a division’s administrative, manufacturing, and back-office functions;
• a reduction of 425 employees in the U.S. and Europe;
• the divestiture of certain non-strategic Re:Source Americas operations; and
• the abandonment of manufacturing equipment utilized in the production of discontinued product lines.

was comprised of $4.5 million of cash expenditures for severance benefits and other costs, and $1.7 million of non-cash charges, primarily for the write-down of the carrying value and disposal of certain assets. The 2002 restructuring charge was comprised of $10.6 million of cash expenditures for severance benefits and other costs, and $12.8 million of non-cash charges, primarily for the write-down of the carrying value and disposal of certain assets. We expect to incur an additional pre-tax charge of approximately $1.5 million during 2003 to complete the restructuring. The 2001 restructuring charge was comprised of $20.4 million of cash expenditures for severance benefits and other costs and $34.2 million of non-cash charges, primarily for the write-down of carrying value and disposal of assets, including goodwill. The 2001 restructuring initiatives had aspects that continued into 2002 and were completed by the end of the second quarter 2002. The 2000 restructuring charge was comprised of $12.8 million of cash expenditures for severance benefits and relocation costs and $8.2 million of non-cash charges, primarily for the write-down of impaired assets.2002.

     These initiatives are producing the strategic results we targeted, in that we have reduced our cost structure and have strengthened our free cash flow position. We believe the 2002 restructuring initiatives undertaken in 2002 and 2003 alone eventually will yield future annual cost savings of approximately $15$25 million, beginning with cost savings of approximately $10 million in 2003,2004, although there can be no guarantee that such savings will be achieved.

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     Further discussion about the restructuring charges appears in the notesNotes to the consolidated financial statements.Consolidated Financial Statements included in Item 8 of this Report.

Goodwill Impairment Write-Down Under SFAS 142

     We adopted the new standards set forth in SFAS 142 for accounting for goodwill and other intangible assets effective on the first day of fiscal 2002, and in the second quarter of 2002, we completed the transitional goodwill impairment test required by SFAS 142. As a result of that testing, we determined that a portion of

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our goodwill and other intangible assets had been impaired, and we wrote down their value accordingly. The effect of that write-down (the after-tax charge of $55.4 million, or $1.10 per diluted share, referred to above) has been recorded as the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle effective the first quarter of fiscal 2002, as required by SFAS 142. The charge had no cash effect and, as required, is presented net of tax. However, it affects significantly the comparisons of our results from period to period, both directly because of the charge itself in 2002, and indirectly because of the subsequent elimination of amortization of those assets.

     In effecting this accounting change and the related impairment testing, we used an outside consultant to help prepare valuations of reporting units in accordance with the new standards, and those valuations were compared with the respective book values of the reporting units to determine whether any goodwill impairment existed. In preparing the valuations, past, present and future expectations of performance were considered. The test showed goodwill impairment in three overseas reporting units and five Americas reporting units. In all cases, the impairment primarily was attributable to actual and currently-forecastedthen-forecasted revenue and profitability for the reporting unit being lower (consistent with the industry-wide decline in carpet sales and related services) than that anticipated at the time of the acquisition of the reporting unit.

     During the fourth quarter of 2003, we performed the annual goodwill impairment test required by SFAS 142 using a methodology similar to the transitional test. No additional impairment was indicated.

Results of Operations

     The following discussion and analyses of period results that follow reflect the factors and trends discussed in the preceding sections. In addition, we believe our performance over the three-year period ended December 28, 2003 reflects the unprecedented downturn experienced by the commercial interiors industry in general during that time. In comparison to the previous longest downturn, which began around 1990 and lasted for approximately 15 months, the current downturn resulted in decreased orders for office furniture (which is a leading indicator of business conditions in the commercial interiors industry) in 31 of the 36 months ended December 2003. During this period, office furniture shipments reached their lowest levels since the early 1990s. These statistics are based on data compiled by the Business and Institutional Furniture Manufacturer’s Association (BIFMA).

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     The following table presents, as a percentage of net sales, certain items included in our consolidated statementsConsolidated Statements of operations.Operations for the three years ended December 28, 2003:

         
Fiscal Year Ended

         
200220012000200320022001






Net sales 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0% 100.0%
Cost of sales 71.4 70.5 69.0  72.6 71.4 70.5 

Gross profit on sales 28.6 29.5 31.0  27.4 28.6 29.5 
Selling, general and administrative expenses 24.4 24.5 23.8  25.0 24.4 24.5 
Restructuring charges 2.5 5.2 1.7  0.7 2.5 5.2 

Operating income (loss) 1.6 (0.1) 5.5  1.7 1.6 (0.1)
Interest/Other expense 4.6 3.4 3.1  4.8 4.6 3.4 

Income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes on income (benefit) (3.0) (3.5) 2.4 
Taxes on income (benefit) (1.1) (1.1) 1.0 
Loss from continuing operations before tax benefit (3.1) (3.0) (3.5)
Income tax benefit (1.1) (1.1) (1.1)

Income (loss) from continuing operations (1.9) (2.4) 1.4 
Loss from continuing operations (2.0) (1.9) (2.4)
Discontinued operations, net of tax (1.6) (1.0) 0.0  (1.6) (1.6) (1.0)
Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle, net of tax (6.0)     (6.0)  

Net income (loss) (9.5) (3.4) 1.4 
Net loss (3.6) (9.5) (3.4)
 
 
 
  
 
 
 

     Below we provide information regarding net sales for each of our five operating segments, and analyze those results for the past three fiscal years.

Fiscal 2002 Compared with Fiscal 2001Net Sales by Business Segment

     OurWe currently classify our businesses into the following five operating segments for certain reporting purposes:

• Modular Carpet segment, which includes our Interface, Heuga and InterfaceFLOR modular carpet businesses;
• Broadloom segment, which includes our Bentley and Prince Street broadloom, modular carpet and area rug business;
• Services segment, which primarily encompasses ourRe:Source dealers that provide carpet installation and maintenance services in the United States;
• Fabrics Group segment, which includes all of our fabrics businesses worldwide; and
• Specialty Products segment, which includes our subsidiary Pandel, Inc., a producer of vinyl carpet tile backing and specialty mat and foam products, and also includes ourInterseptantimicrobial sales and licensing program.

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Net sales by operating segment and for our Company as a whole were as follows for the three years ended December 28, 2003:

                     
Percentage Change
Fiscal Year Ended

2003 Compared2002 Compared
Net Sales By Segment200320022001with 2002with 2001






(In thousands)
Modular Carpet $468,751  $431,826  $484,755   8.6%  (10.9)%
Broadloom(1)  109,940   114,727   170,179   (4.2)%  (32.6)%
Services  146,416   163,456   178,859   (10.4)%  (8.6)%
Fabrics Group  189,111   199,276   209,905   (5.1)%  (5.1)%
Specialty Products  9,291   14,799   15,148   (37.2)%  (2.3)%
   
   
   
   
   
 
Total $923,509  $924,084  $1,058,846   (0.1)%  (12.7)%
   
   
   
   
   
 


(1) For reporting purposes, 2001 net sales for the Broadloom segment include our European broadloom operations, which operated under the Firth brand and were closed in the third quarter of 2001.

Modular Carpet Segment. For 2003, net sales for the Modular Carpet segment increased $36.9 million (8.6%) compared with 2002. On a geographic basis, increases in net sales in the Americas and Asia-Pacific were offset by a decrease in net sales (in local currency terms) in the European portion of the business. However, the translation of European revenues into U.S. dollars favorably affected us, accounting for most of the increase in net sales for the overall Modular Carpet segment. We believe our Modular Carpet business in North America gained market share from floorcovering competition during 2003, accounting in part for the increase in net sales in the Americas despite continued poor macroeconomic conditions. We also saw a significant increase in our sales into the education market segment in North America, which we attribute to our focus on that market segment, among others, as part of our strategy to increase product sales in non-corporate office market segments. Sales growth in Asia-Pacific is attributable in large part to a relatively good economic climate in that region and to our introduction of aHeuga-brand modular carpet line at competitive, mid-level price points. The decrease in net sales in Europe is attributable in large part to poor macroeconomic conditions, particularly in the United Kingdom.

     In 2002, net sales for our Modular Carpet segment decreased $134.8$52.9 million (12.7%(10.9%) compared with 2001. The decrease was primarily attributable to reduced corporate profits in general as a result of poor macroeconomic conditions, which led to decreased spending in the commercial interiors market.

Broadloom Segment. In our Broadloom segment, net sales in 2003 decreased $4.7 million (4.2%) compared with 2002. The decrease was attributable primarily to reduced corporate profits in general, which led to decreased spending in the commercial interiors market, particularly among traditional broadloom customers in the financial community of the Northeast United States. The decrease was offset somewhat by increased sales to customers in the government and education market segments.

     Net sales in the Broadloom segment in 2002 decreased $55.5 million (32.6%) compared with 2001. The decrease was attributable primarily to (1) the closure in the third quarter of 2001 of our European broadloom carpet operations (which conducted business under the Firth brand), and (2) reduced spending by customers in the corporate office market segment. However, the decline in sales in the corporate office market segment was offset somewhat by improved sales in the education and retail market segments.

Services Segment. For 2003, net sales for our Services segment decreased $17.0 million (10.4%) compared with 2002. The decrease was attributable primarily to (1) reduced corporate profits in general as a result of poor macroeconomic conditions, which led to decreased spending in the commercial interiors market, (2) strong downward pricing pressure resulting from supply generally outpacing demand in the carpet installation services market, and (3) to a lesser extent, the loss of sales related to the closing of a limited number of Company-owned branch locations.

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     Net sales in 2002 for our Services segment decreased $15.4 million (8.6%) compared with 2001. The decrease was attributable primarily to (1) reduced corporate profits in general as a result of poor macroeconomic conditions, which has led to decreased spending in the commercial interiors market, (2) profit-improvement initiatives by our Company-owned floorcovering dealers which led to greater selectivity with respect to bidding on and accepting projects, and (3) to a lesser extent, the loss of sales related to the closing of a limited number of Company-owned branch locations.

Fabrics Group Segment. For 2003, net sales for our Fabrics Group segment decreased $10.2 million (5.1%) compared with 2002. The Fabrics Group segment’s net sales in 2002 decreased $10.6 million (5.1%) compared with 2001. The decrease in each of 2003 and 2002, as compared to the respective preceding year, was attributable primarily to (1) reduced corporate profits in general as a result of poor macroeconomic conditions, which led to decreased spending in the commercial interiors market, and (2) the decline of panel fabric sales to certain original equipment manufacturer (OEM) furniture manufacturers (ascompanies as a result of reduced demand in the commercial interiors market), and (3) the closure ofmarket.

Specialty Products Segment. For 2003, net sales for our European broadloom carpet operations in the third quarter of 2001.Specialty Products segment decreased $5.5 million (37.2%) compared with 2002. The decrease was offset somewhat by progressattributable primarily to the sale of our Re:Source Technologies adhesives and floorcovering maintenance products business in February 2003. Net sales for this segment remained stable between 2001 and 2002.

Cost and Expenses

Company Consolidated. The following table presents, on a consolidated basis for our market segmentation initiative, whereby we are enhancingoperations, our efforts to penetrate relatively untapped segments.

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     Costoverall cost of sales and selling, general and administrative expenses for the three years ended December 28, 2003:

                     
Percentage Change
Fiscal Year Ended

2003 Compared2002 Compared
Cost and Expenses200320022001with 2002with 2001






(In thousands)
Cost of Sales $670,532  $659,910  $746,320   1.6%  (11.6)%
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses  231,306   225,569   259,039   2.5%  (12.9)%
   
   
   
   
   
 
Total $901,838  $885,479  $1,005,359   1.8%  (11.9)%
   
   
   
   
   
 

     For 2003, our cost of sales increased $10.6 million as compared to 2002. As a percentage of net sales, cost of sales also increased to 72.6% for 2003, versus 71.4% for 2002. The percentage increase was primarily due to (1) the under-absorption of fixed manufacturing costs due to lower sales volume, (2) a fluctuation in our relative sales mix from products that have had traditionally higher margins to those with traditionally lower margins, (3) other manufacturing costs associated with scaling production to meet current demand levels, and (4) disruptions in 2003 associated with the integration and restructuring of our Fabrics Group.

     For 2002, our cost of sales decreased $86.4 million as compared to 2001. As a percentage of net sales, however, cost of sales increased to 71.4% in 2002,, compared with 70.5% in 2001, primarily as a result of (1) the under-absorption of fixed manufacturing costs due to lower sales volume levels, (2) a fluctuation in our relative sales mix from products whichthat have had traditionally higher margins to those with traditionally lower margins, and (3) other manufacturing costs associated with scaling production to meet demand levels.

For 2003, our selling, general and administrative expenses increased $5.8 million as compared to 2002. As a percentage of net sales, selling, general and administrative expenses also increased to 25.0% for 2003, compared with 24.4% for 2002. The 2002 percentage increase was favorably affected byprimarily due to (1) increased marketing costs incurred in 2003 in connection with the benefitslaunches of InterfaceFLOR (our residential modular carpet business), thePrince Street House and Homecollection (our residential broadloom offering), and ouri2 marketing campaign during 2003, (2) disruptions in 2003 associated with the integration and restructuring of our 2001 restructuring activities.Fabrics Group, and (3) currency fluctuations that negatively affected the value of the dollar.

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     Selling,For 2002, our selling, general and administrative expenses declined by $33.5 million, in 2002, to $225.6 million from $259.0 million in the prior year,year. Selling, general and administrative expenses as a resultpercentage of net sales remained stable between 2002 (24.4%) and 2001 (24.5%), despite a 12.7% decline in net sales in 2002 as compared with 2001. These results are attributable to (1) the continuation in 2002 of successful cost-cutting initiatives and other restructuring activities, and (2) the elimination in 2002 of amortization of goodwill, which was $9.8 million in 2001. As a percentage

Cost and Expenses by Segment. The following table presents the combined cost of net sales and selling, general and administrative expenses decreased slightly to 24.4% in 2002 compared with 24.5%for each of our operating segments:

                     
Fiscal Year EndedPercentage Change
Cost of Sales and Selling,

General and Administrative2003 Compared2002 Compared
Expenses (Combined)200320022001with 2002with 2001






(In thousands)
Modular Carpet $426,219  $386,691  $429,767   10.2%  (10.0)%
Broadloom(1)  110,838   118,064   182,025   (6.1)%  (35.1)%
Services  155,840   167,957   179,502   (7.2)%  (6.4)%
Fabrics  197,198   197,248   203,823   0.0%  (3.2)%
Specialty Products  9,352   13,873   14,808   (32.6)%  (6.3)%
Corporate Expenses & Eliminations(2)  2,391   1,646   (4,566)  45.3%  * 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Total $901,838  $885,479  $1,005,359   1.8%  (11.9)%
   
   
   
   
   
 


(1) For reporting purposes, 2001 figures for the Broadloom segment include our European broadloom operations, which operated under the Firth brand and were closed in the third quarter of 2001.
(2) Percentage change calculation not meaningful for 2002 compared with 2001.

Other Expense

     OtherFor 2003, other expense (which is comprised primarily of interest expense) increased $1.3 million compared with 2002. This increase was due primarily to (1) the termination during June 2003 of our accounts receivable securitization program and the replacement of that source of funding with borrowing that carried an overall higher borrowing rate, and (2) the unwinding of our interest rate swap agreement in May 2003.

     For 2002, other expense increased $6.4 million in 2002 compared with 2001, due primarily to our issuance of $175 million of 10.375% Senior Notes in January 2002 (which have a higher interest rate than the debt the Senior Notes replaced) and higher interest rates on our revolving credit facility.facility in 2002 than in 2001.

Tax

     The rate of the effective tax benefit we recognized in 2003 was 35.7%, compared with an effective tax benefit rate of 35.8% in 2002. Although the overall effective tax benefit rate was essentially stable from 2002 to 2003, certain underlying components changed. In particular, the component of our tax benefit rate which is attributable to state taxes in the United States increased in 2003 as compared to 2002 because, in 2003, the portion of our overall pre-tax loss that was attributable to U.S. operations (and therefore pertinent to state taxes) was greater than in 2002. This increase associated with U.S. state taxes was offset by decreases in tax-benefit rate components associated with foreign tax effects attributable to foreign operations and by decreases in the tax-benefit rate component associated with the taxable disposition of certain life insurance policies.

     The rate of the effective tax benefit recognized by the Companyus in 2002 was 35.8%, compared with an effective tax benefit rate of 30.8% in 2001. The increase in the tax benefit rate was due primarily to the existence in 2001 of goodwill amortization expense, which was non-deductible for tax purposes. Pursuant to SFAS 142, the amortization of goodwill was discontinued effective during the 2002 fiscal year.

     As a result of these factors, including those discussed in the preceding sections, our net loss was $87.7 million in 2002 versus a net loss of $36.3 million in 2001.28

Fiscal 2001 Compared with Fiscal 2000


     Our net sales in 2001 decreased $165.0 million (13.5%) compared with 2000. The decrease was attributable primarily to (1) the decline of panel fabric sales to some OEM furniture manufacturers (as a result of reduced demand in the commercial interiors market), (2) poor macroeconomic conditions, and (3) the liquidation of our European broadloom operation.

     Cost of sales, as a percentage of net sales, increased to 70.5% in 2001, compared with 69.0% in 2000, primarily as a result of (1) the under-absorption of fixed manufacturing costs due to lower volume levels, and (2) other manufacturing costs associated with scaling production to meet demand levels.

     Selling, general and administrative expenses declined by $32.5 million in 2001, to $259.0 million from $291.5 million in the prior year, as a result of successful cost-cutting initiatives and other restructuring activities. Because of the lower level of net sales, however, selling, general and administrative expenses, as a percentage of net sales, increased to 24.5% in 2001 compared with 23.8% in 2000.

     Other expense decreased $1.1 million in 2001 compared with 2000, due primarily to lower London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) interest rates.

     The rate of the effective tax benefit recognized by the Company in 2001 was 30.8%, compared to an effective tax rate of 42.0% in 2000. This change was due to the write-off of certain non-deductible amounts as part of the restructuring charge taken during 2001 that reduced the tax benefit to the Company.

     As a result of these factors, including those discussed in the preceding sections, our net loss was $36.3 million in 2001 versus net income of $17.3 million in 2000.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

General

     In our business, we require cash and other liquid assets primarily for purchases ofto purchase raw materials and to pay other manufacturing costs, in addition to funding for normal course selling, general and administrative

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expenses, anticipated capital expenditures, and possiblepotential special projects. We generate our cash and other liquidity requirements from our operations our accounts receivable securitization program, and from borrowings or other arrangementsletters of credit under our revolving credit facility with a banking syndicate. Our management believesPrior to June 18, 2003, we also generated liquidity through our accounts receivable securitization program (which was terminated on that date in connection with an amendment and restatement of our revolving credit facility). We believe that our liquidity position will provide sufficient funds to meet our current commitments and other cash requirements for the foreseeable future, and that we will be able to continue our initiative to enhance the generation of free cash flow.

     At December 29, 2002,28, 2003, we had $34.1$16.6 million of cash and cash equivalents, and an additional $163.7$168.5 million of working capital. WeAs of that date, we also had $56.7$62.2 million of available borrowing capacity under our revolving credit facility at that date, subject to continued compliance with its covenants.based on the borrowing base. As of December 28, 2003, no borrowings and $15.8 million in letters of credit were outstanding under the revolving credit facility. The material terms of that facility along with the material terms of the replacement facility that we are negotiating and expect to consummate in 2003, are summarized below.

     We currently estimate capital expenditures for 2003 of approximately $15will be between $16 million and $18 million for 2004, and we presently have aggregate capital expenditure purchase commitments of approximately $2.0$6 million for 2003.2004. Based on current interest rate levels, we expect our aggregate interest expense in 2003for 2004 to be approximately $41between $42 million and $44 million.

     In February 2004, we completed a private offering of $135 million in 9.5% senior subordinated notes due 2014. Proceeds from the issuance of these notes were used to redeem in full our previously outstanding 9.5% senior subordinated notes due 2005 and to reduce borrowings under the Company’s revolving credit facility. As a result of the redemption of the notes that were due in 2005, our revolving credit facility (discussed below) will not mature until October 2007 and we will have no other significant debt maturity obligations until 2008.

Revolving Credit Facility

     On January 17, 2002, in conjunction with our issuance of $175 million of 10.375% Senior Notes,June 18, 2003, we amended and restated our primarysenior revolving credit facility with a banking syndicate.facility. Under the credit facility as amended and restated facility, as under its predecessor, the maximum aggregate amount of loans and letters of credit available to us at any one time is the lesser of (i) $100 million, or (ii)subject to a borrowing base as described below. The key features of the revolving credit facility are as follows:

• The revolving credit facility currently matures on October 1, 2007.
• The revolving credit facility includes a domestic U.S. dollar syndicated loan and letter of credit facility made available to Interface, Inc. and Interface Europe B.V. (our foreign subsidiary based in Europe), as co-borrowers up to the lesser of (1) $100 million, or (2) a borrowing base equal to the sum of specified percentages of eligible accounts receivable, finished goods inventory and raw materials inventory in the United States (the percentages and eligibility requirements for the domestic borrowing base are specified in the credit facility), less certain reserves. Any advances to Interface, Inc. or Interface Europe B.V. under the domestic loan facility will reduce borrowing availability under the entire revolving credit facility.
• Advances to Interface, Inc. and Interface Europe B.V. under the domestic loan facility and advances to Interface Europe, Ltd. under the multicurrency loan facility (described below) are secured by a first-priority lien on substantially all of Interface, Inc.’s assets and the assets of each of its material domestic subsidiaries, which have guaranteed the revolving credit facility.
• The revolving credit facility also includes a multicurrency syndicated loan and letter of credit facility in British pounds and euros made available to Interface Europe, Ltd. (our foreign subsidiary based in the United Kingdom), in an amount up to the lesser of (1) the equivalent of $15 million, or (2) a

29


borrowing base equal to the sum of specified percentages of eligible accounts receivable and finished goods inventory of Interface Europe, Ltd. and certain of its subsidiaries (the percentages and eligibility requirements for the U.K. borrowing base are specified in the credit facility), less certain reserves. Any advances under the multicurrency loan facility will reduce the lending commitment available under the domestic loan facility on a dollar-equivalent basis.
• Advances to Interface Europe, Ltd. under the multicurrency loan facility are secured by a first-priority lien on, security interest in, or floating or fixed charge, as applicable, on all of the interest in and to the accounts receivable, inventory, and substantially all other property of Interface Europe, Ltd. and its material subsidiaries, which subsidiaries also guarantee the multicurrency loan facility.
• The revolving credit facility contains certain financial covenants (including a senior secured debt coverage ratio test and a fixed charge coverage ratio test) that become effective in the event that (1) our excess availability for domestic loans falls below $20 million (excluding a specified reserve against the domestic borrowing base), or (2) our excess availability for U.K. loans falls below $3 million. In such event, we must comply with the financial covenants for a period commencing on the last day of the fiscal quarter immediately preceding such event (unless such event occurs on the last day of a fiscal quarter, in which case the compliance period commences on such date) and ending on the last day of the fiscal quarter immediately following the fiscal quarter in which such event occurred.

     The revolving credit facility also includes various reporting, affirmative and negative covenants, and other provisions that restrict our ability to take certain actions, including the sum of specified percentages of our eligible domestic accounts receivable at such time (excluding those transferred under our accounts receivables securitization program described below), the net book value of our eligible domestic inventory at such time, and the net book value of our eligible domestic property, plant and equipment at such time (the percentages and eligibility requirements for the borrowing base are specified in the credit facility). The aggregate amount of loans and letters of credit that we and certain of our foreign subsidiaries may obtainfollowing:

• Provisions that prohibit us from using borrowings under the revolving credit facility to repay any of our other senior or subordinated notes;
• Provisions that restrict the payment of cash dividends on our common stock unless we meet a financial performance test specified in the revolving credit facility;
• Provisions that restrict our ability to repay the 7.3% Senior Notes due 2008, 10.375% Senior Notes due 2010, and 9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014, except from the proceeds of a refinancing thereof or the proceeds of an offering of equity securities, provided that certain conditions are met, including a requirement that our aggregate outstanding loans and letters of credit under the revolving credit facility not exceed $10 million after giving effect to each such payment; and
• Provisions that restrict our ability to repay other long-term indebtedness by limiting the aggregate repayments of such debt we can make unless we meet a specified minimum excess availability test and a specified financial performance test.

Interest Rates. Interest on borrowings under the revolving credit facility in foreign currencies is $50 million (and any such foreign currency borrowings will count against the availability under the entire $100 million facility). Interest on our borrowings is charged at varying rates based on our ability to meet certain performance criteria.

     ThePrepayments. Our revolving credit facility contains covenants that limitrequires prepayment from the proceeds of certain asset sales.

Covenants. The revolving credit facility also limits our ability, among other things, to:

 • incur indebtedness or contingent obligations;
• make certain restricted payments, such as cash dividends and debt repayments prior to scheduled maturity;
 
 • make acquisitions of or investments in businesses (in excess of certain specified amounts);
 
 • sell or dispose of assets (in excess of certain specified amounts);
 
 • create or incur liens on assets;
 
 • purchase or redeem any of our stock (other than as permitted underin the revolving credit facility); orand
 
 • enter into sale and leaseback transactions.

     The credit facility also requires that we meet certain financial tests (including an interest coverage ratio test, a funded debt coverage ratio test, a minimum net worth test and a fixed charge coverage ratio test), use specified excess cash flows or proceeds from certain asset sales to repay borrowingsWe are presently in compliance with all covenants under the revolving credit facility and complyanticipate that we will remain in compliance with certainthe covenants.

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Events of Default. If Interface, Inc. or any other reporting, affirmative and negative covenants.

     If we failborrower fails to perform or breachbreaches any of ourthe affirmative or negative covenants under the revolving credit facility, or if other specified events occur (such as a bankruptcy or similar event or a change of control of Interface, Inc.), after giving effect to any applicable notice and right to cure provisions, an event of default will exist. If an event of default exists and is continuing, the lenders’ co-agents may, and upon the written request of a specified percentage of the lender group, shall: (1) declare all commitments of the lenders under the amendedshall,

25


and restated credit facility terminated; (2) declare all amounts outstanding or accrued thereunder immediately due and payable; and (3) exercise other rights and remedies available to them under the credit agreement and applicable law.
• declare all commitments of the lenders under the facility terminated;
• declare all amounts outstanding or accrued thereunder, immediately due and payable; and
• exercise other rights and remedies available to them under the agreement and applicable law.

     Collateral.The creditdomestic loan facility is secured by substantially all of the assets of ourInterface, Inc. and its domestic subsidiaries (subject to exceptions for certain immaterial subsidiaries), including all of the stock of our domestic subsidiaries and up to 65% of the stock of our first-tier material foreign subsidiaries. The collateral documents provide that, ifmulticurrency loan facility is secured by substantially all of the assets of Interface Europe, Ltd. and its material subsidiaries. If an event of default occurs under the revolving credit facility, the lenders’ collateral agent may, upon the request of thea specified percentage of lenders, exercise remedies with respect to the collateral, that includeincluding, in some instances, foreclosing mortgages on our real estate assets, taking possession of or reselling ourselling personal property assets, collecting our accounts receivables, or exercising proxies to take control of the pledged stock of our domestic and first-tier material foreign subsidiaries.

     The credit facility matures on May 15, 2005, subjectPrior to a possible extension of that date to January 17, 2007 if (i) the outstanding principal balance of our 9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes on May 15, 2005 is less than or equal to $50 million and (ii) the availability under the credit facility exceeds the principal amount of the 9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes then outstanding. (In addition, there will be a reserve from the availability under the credit facility for the amount of such 9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes during such extension.)

     We currently are working with our banking syndicate to further amend and restate the credit facility. As currently contemplated, the proposed amended and restated credit facility would differ from the existing credit facility in certain respects, including the following:

• the amended and restated credit facility would mature on May 31, 2005 unless excess availability under the new credit facility plus unrestricted cash balances exceed a to-be-determined percentage of the outstanding balance of the 9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes outstanding from time to time, and if that is the case, the maturity date will be extended for a period not to exceed five years from the anniversary of the closing date of the new credit facility and six months prior to the maturity of the 7.3% Senior Notes due 2008.
• the financial covenants will include a fixed charge coverage ratio test, a funded debt coverage ratio test, and a minimum excess availability test, but these covenants would not be applicable unless and until excess availability under the credit facility is less than a to-be-determined amount;
• the borrowing base would be modified by (i) increasing the advance rate on eligible domestic receivables from 20% to 85%, (ii) limiting advances against each of the eligible domestic inventory and the eligible U.K. inventory to 85% of the net orderly liquidation value of such inventory, (iii) modifying the advance rate against eligible domestic plant, property and equipment (and imposing a sublimit of $22.5 million for the portion of the borrowing base attributable to such collateral), (iv) deducting from the borrowing base for advances to the domestic borrower a fixed and continuing minimum availability reserve of $10.0 million and (v) expanding the borrowing base to include, for purposes of loans made to Interface Europe Ltd. (which is a subsidiary of Interface, Inc. and a permitted foreign borrower under the proposed amended and restated credit facility), the sum of specified percentages of (1) Interface Europe Ltd.’s eligible accounts receivable arising from the sale of its inventory located in the United Kingdom and denominated in British pounds sterling or United States dollars (the “UK Accounts Receivable”), (2) Interface Europe, Ltd.’s eligible inventory located in the United Kingdom (the “UK Inventory”), valued at the lower of cost or market, and (3) subject to a sublimit, the equipment of Interface Europe Ltd. located in the United Kingdom (the “UK Equipment”);
• all obligations of Interface Europe Ltd. under the credit facility will be secured by the UK Accounts Receivable, the UK Inventory, and the UK Equipment.

     We anticipate consummating the proposed amendment and restatement of the revolving credit facility, duringwe were not in compliance with certain covenants contained in our previous facility, and we obtained waivers from our lenders at that time. The current revolving credit facility amended our covenants and we have been in compliance with our current covenants since the second quarter of 2003.

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amendment.

Analysis of Cash Flows

     Operating activities and proceeds from long-term debt provided our primary sources of cash during each of the last three fiscal years.years 2001 to 2003. In 2002,2003, cash used in operating activities (including the discontinued operations of our U.S. raised/access flooring business) generated $58.4was $8.5 million, of cashas compared with cash generated by operating activities of $57.4 million in 2002 and $18.3 million in 2001 and $71.42001. Cash generated by continuing operations in 2003 was $2.1 million, as compared to cash generated by continuing operations of $68.7 million in 2000.2002 and $15.9 million in 2001. The decreasechange in cash generated fromflow related to operating activities in 20012003 as compared with 2000to 2002 was due primarily to the decline instabilization of our results of operations. From 2001 toworking capital levels throughout 2003, whereas working capital reductions during 2002 thegenerated cash. The increase in cash generated from operating activitiesoperations in 2002 versus 2001 was attributabledue primarily to working capital reductions resulting from improved receivables collections and inventory reductions.

     The primary uses of cash during the last three fiscal years 2001 to 2003 have been (1) acquisitions of businesses, (2) additions to property and equipment at our manufacturing facilities,facilities; (2) expenditures related to debt reduction; (3) cash dividends, and (4) expenditures related to our debt and equity repurchase programs.programs; and (4) cash dividends. For the fiscal years ended 2003, 2002 and 2001, and 2000: (i) acquisitions of businesses (net of dispositions) required $0, $2.2 million and $29.9 million, respectively; (ii)(a) additions to property and equipment required $16.3 million, $14.3 million and $30.0 million, and $30.5respectively; (b) cash required for our overall debt reduction was $30.0 million respectively; (iii) dividends required $2.3 million, $7.6(essentially for payoff of our accounts receivable securitization program in 2003), $5.0 million, and $9.2 million,$0, respectively; and (iv)(c) expenditures related to our debt and equity repurchases required $5.0repurchase programs were $0, $5.8 million and $2.2 million, and $6.8 million, respectively. In addition, in 2002, we incurred $5.8 million in debt issuance costs, primarily relating to our issuance of Senior Notes.

     Pursuant to our share repurchase program, which expired on May 19, 2002, we were authorized to repurchase up to 4,000,000 shares of Class A Common Stock in the open market. ThisDuring the program, expired on May 19, 2002. As of that date, we had repurchased an aggregate of 3,075,113 shares for an aggregate of Class A Common Stock since the beginning of the program, at prices ranging from $3.41 to $16.78.$22.2 million.

     Management believes that cash provided by operations and long-term loan commitments will provide adequate funds for current commitments and other requirements in the foreseeable future.

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Funding Obligations

We have various contractual obligations that we must fund as part of our normal operations. The following table discloses aggregate information about our contractual obligations (including the contractual obligations of the discontinued operations of our U.S. raised/access flooring business) and the periods in which payments are due. The amounts and time periods are measured from December 28, 2003.

                     
Payments Due by Period
Total
PaymentsLess thanMore than
Due1 Year1-3 Years3-5 Years5 Years





(In thousands)
Long-Term Debt Obligations(1) $445,000  $  $120,000  $150,000  $175,000 
Capital Lease Obligations  311   125   165   21    
Operating Lease Obligations  118,264   26,283   37,955   24,215   29,811 
Unconditional Purchase Obligations(2)  8,856   6,686   2,170       
   
   
   
   
   
 
Total Contractual Cash Obligations $572,431  $33,094  $160,290  $174,236  $204,811 
   
   
   
   
   
 


     We have various contractual commitments
(1) These amounts include $120 million of 9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2005 that were outstanding at December 28, 2003, but were called and otherredeemed on March 5, 2004. In order to effect that redemption, we issued on February 4, 2004 a new series of 9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014, in the aggregate principal amount of $135 million, and used most of the net proceeds to pay the redemption price.
(2) Does not include unconditional purchase obligations that we must fundare included as liabilities in 2003 (including the $2.0 million of capital expenditure commitments noted above) and future years as part of our normal operations. Summary information about these matters is set forth in the following tables.

The following table discloses aggregate information, as of December 29, 2002, about our contractual obligations (including the contractual obligations of the discontinued operations of our raised/access flooring business) and the periods in which payments are due:

                     
Payments Due by Period
Total
PaymentsLess thanMore than
Due1 year1-3 years3-5 years5 years





(In thousands)
Long-Term Debt $6,505  $  $5  $  $6,500 
Senior and Senior Subordinated Notes  445,000      120,000      325,000 
Operating Leases  114,866   23,478   28,881   20,851   41,656 
Unconditional Purchase Obligations*  2,042   2,042          
   
   
   
   
   
 
Total Contractual Cash Obligations $568,413  $25,520  $148,886  $20,851  $373,156 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Consolidated Balance Sheet.

Critical Accounting Policies

     High-quality financial statements require rigorous application of high-quality accounting policies. The policies discussed below are considered by management to be critical to an understanding of our consolidated financial statements because their application places the most significant demands on management’s judgment, with financial reporting results relying on estimation about the effects of matters that are inherently uncertain. Specific risks for these critical accounting policies are described in the following paragraphs. For all of these policies, management cautions that future events may not develop as forecasted, and the best estimates routinely require adjustment.

Deferred Income Tax Assets and Liabilities. The carrying values of deferred income tax assets and liabilities reflect the application of our income tax accounting policies in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes” (“SFAS 109”), and are based on management’s assumptions and estimates regarding future operating results and levels of taxable income, as well as management’s judgments regarding the interpretation of the provisions of SFAS 109. The carrying values of liabilities for income taxes currently payable are based on management’s interpretation of applicable tax laws, and incorporate management’s assumptions and judgments regarding the use of tax planning strategies in various taxing jurisdictions. The use of different estimates, assumptions and judgments in connection with accounting for income taxes may result in materially different carrying values of income tax assets and liabilities and results of operations.

     We record a valuation allowance to reduce our deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will expire before realization of the benefit or that future deductibility is not probable. The ultimate realization of the deferred tax assets depends on the ability to generate sufficient taxable income of the appropriate character in the future. This requires us to use estimates and make assumptions regarding significant future events such as the taxability of entities operating in the various taxing jurisdictions.

Goodwill. Pursuant to SFAS 142, we no longer amortize goodwill, but instead test goodwill for impairment at least annually. We use an outside consultant to help prepare valuations of reporting units, and

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Represents the capital expenditure commitments noted above. In addition to this amount, we have various agreements to purchase goods or services, none of which agreements is material.

     The following table discloses aggregate information, as of December 29, 2002, about other commercial commitments (including the commercial commitments of the discontinued operations of our raised/access

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flooring business) for which we could be obligated to pay in the future but are not included in our consolidated balance sheet.
                     
Amount of Commitment Expiration Per Period
Total
AmountsLess thanMore than
Committed1 year1-3 years3-5 years5 years





(In thousands)
Revolving Credit Facility(1) $100,000  $  $100,000  $  $ 
Other Lines of Credit(2)  16,750   16,750          
   
   
   
   
   
 
Total Commercial Commitments $116,750  $16,750  $100,000  $  $ 
   
   
   
   
   
 


(1) Includes $14.1 million in standby letters of credit outstanding under the revolving credit facility.
(2) Represents 365-day facilities available under subsidiaries’ names that were not drawn upon.

Critical Accounting Policies

those valuations are compared with the respective book values of the reporting units to determine whether any goodwill impairment exists. In preparing the valuations, past, present and expected future performance is considered. If impairment is indicated, a loss is recognized for the difference, if any, between the fair value of the goodwill associated with the reporting unit and the book value of that goodwill. If the actual fair value of the goodwill is determined to be less than that estimated, an additional write-down may be required.

Revenue Recognition on Long-Term Contracts. A portion of our revenues is derived from long-term contracts that are accounted for under the provisions of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants’ Statement of Position No. 81-1, “Accounting for Performance of Construction-Type and Certain Production-Type Contracts”. Long-term fixed-price contracts are recorded on the percentage of completion basis using the ratio of costs incurred to estimated total costs at completion as the measurement basis for progress toward completion and revenue recognition. Any losses identified on contracts are recognized immediately. Contract accounting requires significant judgment relative to assessing risks, estimating contract costs and making related assumptions for schedule and technical issues. With respect to contract change orders, claims or similar items, judgment must be used in estimating related amounts and assessing the potential for realization. These amounts are only included in contract value when they can be reliably estimated and realization is probable.

Inventories. We determine the value of inventories using the lower of cost or market. We write down inventories for the difference between the carrying value of the inventories and their estimated market value. If actual market conditions are less favorable than those projected by management, additional write-downs may be required.

Pension Benefits. Net pension expense recorded is based on, among other things, assumptions about the discount rate, estimated return on plan assets and salary increases. Changes in these and other factors and differences between actual and assumed changes in the present value of liabilities or assets of our plans above certain thresholds could cause net annual expense to increase or decrease materially from year to year.

Environmental Remediation. We provide for remediation costs and penalties when the responsibility to remediate is probable and the amount of associated costs is reasonably determinable. Remediation liabilities are accrued based on estimates of known environmental exposures and are discounted in certain instances. We regularly monitor the progress of environmental remediation. Should studies indicate that the cost of remediation is to be more than previously estimated, an additional accrual would be recorded in the period in which such determination is made. In 2002, certain developments transpired with respect to our estimated environmental liability associated with our Chatham fabrics operations in Elkin, North Carolina. (See the discussion of “Accrued Expenses” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included at Item 8 hereof.) As a result, we reduced the amount of our accrual for such liabilities by $4.2 million. The reduction of the accrual was recorded as a reduction of “other expense” in 2002.

     High-quality financial statements require rigorous application of high-quality accounting policies. The policies discussed below are considered by management to be critical to an understanding of the financial statements because their application places the most significant demands on management’s judgment, with financial reporting results relying on estimation about the effects of matters that are inherently uncertain. Specific risks for these critical accounting policies are described in the following paragraphs. For all of these policies, management cautions that future events may not develop as forecasted, and the best estimates routinely require adjustment.

Revenue Recognition on Long-Term Contracts. A portion of our revenues is derived from long-term contracts which are accounted for under the provisions of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants’ Statement of Position No. 81-1, “Accounting for Performance of Construction-Type and Certain Production-Type Contracts.” Long-term fixed-price contracts are recorded on the percentage of completion basis using the ratio of costs incurred to estimated total costs at completion as the measurement basis for progress toward completion and revenue recognition. Any losses identified on contracts are recognized immediately. Contract accounting requires significant judgment relative to assessing risks, estimating contract costs and making related assumptions for schedule and technical issues. With respect to contract change orders, claims or similar items, judgment must be used in estimating related amounts and assessing the potential for realization. These amounts are only included in contract value when they can be reliably estimated and realization is probable.

Inventories. We determine the value of inventories using the lower of cost or market. We write down inventories for the difference between the carrying value of the inventories and their estimated market value. If actual market conditions are less favorable than those projected by management, additional write-downs may be required.

Pension Benefits. Net pension expense recorded is based on, among other things, assumptions of the discount rate, estimated return on plan assets and salary increases. Changes in these and other factors and differences between actual and assumed changes in the present value of liabilities or assets of our plans above certain thresholds could cause net annual expense to increase or decrease materially from year to year.

Environmental Remediation. We provide for remediation costs and penalties when the responsibility to remediate is probable and the amount of associated costs is reasonably determinable. Remediation liabilities are accrued based on estimates of known environmental exposures and are discounted in certain instances. We regularly monitor the progress of environmental remediation. Should studies indicate that the cost of remediation is to be more than previously estimated, an additional accrual would be recorded in the period in which such determination is made. In 2002, certain developments transpired with respect to our estimated environmental liability associated with our Chatham fabrics operations in Elkin, North Carolina. (See the discussion of “Accrued Expenses” in the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in Item 8.) As a result,

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we reduced the amount of our accrual for such liabilities by $4.2 million. The reduction of the accrual was recorded as a reduction of “other expense” in 2002.

     Allowances for Doubtful Accounts. We maintain allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of customers to make required payments. If the financial condition of our customers were to deteriorate, resulting in an impairment of their ability to make payments, additional allowances may be required.

     Impairment of Long-Lived Assets. Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. If the sum of the expected future undiscounted cash flow is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment is indicated. A loss is then recognized for the difference, if any, between the fair value of the asset (as estimated by management using its best judgment) and the carrying value of the asset. If actual market value is less favorable than that estimated by management, additional write-downs may be required.

Goodwill. Pursuant to SFAS 142, we no longer amortize goodwill, but instead test goodwill for impairment at least annually. We use an outside consultant to help prepare valuations of reporting units, and those valuations are compared with the respective book values of the reporting units to determine whether any goodwill impairment exists. In preparing the valuations, past, present and expected future performance is considered. If impairment is indicated, a loss is recognized for the difference, if any, between the fair value of the goodwill associated with the reporting unit and the book value of that goodwill. If the actual fair value of the goodwill is determined to be less than that estimated, an additional write-down may be required.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

Accounts Receivable Securitization Program

     In FebruaryOn June 18, 2003, we commenced anterminated our former accounts receivable securitization program referredwith Three Pillars Funding Corporation in connection with the refinancing of our revolving credit facility discussed earlier.

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This securitization program had provided for up to as the “Securitization Program”, that provides$50 million of funding from the sale of trade accounts receivable generated by certain of our operating subsidiaries. (Prior to February 2003, we had two successive similar programs, the earliest of which began in 1995.) As of February 28, 2003, Interface Fabrics Group Marketing, Inc., Interface Teknit, Inc., Interface TekSolutions, LLC, Pandel, Inc., and Interface Americas, Inc. (who are, collectively, referred to as the “Originators”) were the only subsidiaries participating in the Securitization Program.

     Under the Securitization Program, Interface purchases, on a daily basis,We no longer have an accounts receivable from the Originators for a cash purchase price equal to the outstanding balance of the receivables at the time of sale (net of a discount intended to give Interface a reasonable return on its investment in the receivables after taking into account the time value of that investment based on the anticipated dates of collection of such receivables and the risk of nonpayment of such receivables) pursuant to a receivables transfer agreement. A single-purpose, wholly owned subsidiary of Interface, Interface Securitization Corporation, referred to as “ISC”, purchases on a daily basis accounts receivable from Interface for cash and a subordinate loan for a purchase price equal to the outstanding balance of the receivables at the time of sale (also net of a discount intended to give ISC a reasonable return on its investment in the receivables after taking into account the time value of that investment based on the anticipated dates of collection of such receivables and the risk of nonpayment of such receivables). Pursuant to a loan agreement among ISC, as borrower, Interface, as servicer, Three Pillars Funding Corporation, as lender, referred to as “Lender”, and SunTrust Capital Markets, Inc., as administrator, referred to as “Administrator”, the Lender has agreed to make revolving loans from time to time to ISC in an amount not to exceed at any one time the lesser of $50,000,000 or the amount of ISC’s borrowing base at such time (with ISC’s borrowing base being equal to the sum of the total unpaid balance of its receivables at such time which meet certain specified eligibility criteria multiplied by an advance rate equal to 100% minus reserves which take into account anticipated loss, dilution, financing costs and servicing costs for the Securitization Program). The Lender’s commitment to provide such loans has a 364-day term, but can be extended by the Lender for additional periods of 364-days each. Borrowings by ISC under the Securitization Program’s loan agreement bear interest at a rate equal to the Lender’s cost of funding such borrowings with its commercial paper issuances plus a specified margin, but if the Lender is not using its commercial paper to fund its loans to ISC, then such loans bear interest at the one-month London Interbank

29


securitization program.

Offered Rate (LIBOR) plus a specified margin. Borrowings by ISC under this loan agreement are secured by all of the receivables purchased by ISC from Interface and certain related property of ISC.

     As of February 28, 2003, the aggregate outstanding principal balance of loans made by the Lender to ISC under the loan agreement was $28.0 million, and the aggregate unpaid balance of the receivables securing such loans on that date was $47.2 million.

     The loan agreement specifies several events of default that would permit the Lender to cease making loans under the loan agreement and to demand immediate payment of all outstanding loans already made under the loan agreement and which also would enable the Lender and Administrator to replace Interface as the servicer of the receivables. In that event, it is expected that Interface would seek to borrow a sufficient sum under its own revolving credit facility to permit ISC to repay all amounts owing to the Lender under the Securitization Program’s loan agreement. However, the occurrence of any event of default under the Securitization Program’s loan agreement may also constitute an event of default under Interface’s revolving credit facility, which would permit Interface’s lenders to withhold future loans to Interface. If Interface were not able to borrow sufficient sums under its revolving credit facility (or otherwise obtain the funding necessary) to refinance the Lender’s loans under the Securitization Program, then control of collections on the receivables in the pool would remain with the Lender and its Administrator until the Lender’s loans are fully repaid. However, if the Lender is no longer obligated to continue to make loans under the loan agreement for the Securitization Program, the Originators are not obligated to continue to sell their receivables to Interface and Interface is not obligated to continue to sell receivables to ISC.

Partnership with ABN AMRO Bank N.V.

     In 1998, our subsidiary Interface Europe B.V. formed a partnership with ABN AMRO Bank N.V. in the Netherlands for the purpose of developing an office building and warehouse facility in Scherpenzeel. Recourse against Interface Europe is limited to the amount of its investment in the partnership, which is approximately $1.0 million. Upon completion of the office building and warehouse facility, the partnership leased those facilities to Interface Europe and Interface International B.V. (which is a subsidiary of Interface Europe). At the expiration of the lease, Interface Europe and Interface International will have the option to purchase the facilities from the partnership at fair market value.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

     In June 2001,December 2003, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) approved the issuance ofFASB issued a revision to SFAS No. 143, “Accounting132, “Employers’ Disclosures about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits.” This statement does not change the measurement or recognition aspects for Asset Retirement Obligations.”pensions and other post-retirement benefit plans; however, it does revise employers’ disclosures to include more information about the plan assets, obligations to pay benefits and funding obligations. SFAS 143 establishes accounting standards for the recognition and measurement of legal obligations associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived assets and requires recognition of a liability for an asset retirement obligation in the period in which it132, as revised, is incurred. The provisions of this statement aregenerally effective for financial statements issuedwith fiscal years ending after December 15, 2003. Certain additional disclosures applicable to foreign defined benefit plans are effective for fiscal years ending after June 15, 2004. We have adopted the required provisions of SFAS No. 132, as revised, and have deferred adopting those additional required disclosures relating to our foreign plans. The adoption of the required provisions of SFAS 132, as revised, did not have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements. The adoption of the disclosures related to our foreign defined benefit plans are not expected to have a material effect on our consolidated financial statements.

     In May 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 150, “Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of both Liabilities and Equity.” SFAS No. 150 clarifies the definition of a liability as currently defined in FASB Concepts Statement No. 6, “Elements of Financial Statements,” as well as other planned revisions. This statement requires a financial instrument that embodies an obligation of an issuer to be classified as a liability. In addition, the statement establishes standards for the initial and subsequent measurement of these financial instruments and disclosure requirements. SFAS 150 is effective for financial instruments entered into or modified after May 31, 2003 and for all other matters, is effective at the beginning of the first interim period beginning after June 15, 2002. We are in the process2003. The adoption of evaluating the impact this standard willSFAS 150 did not have a material effect on our financial statements.position or results of operations.

     In April 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 149, “Amendment of Statement 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.” SFAS No. 149 amends SFAS No. 133 for decisions made by the FASB’s Derivatives Implementation Group, other FASB projects dealing with financial instruments, and in response to implementation issues raised in relation to the application of the definition of a derivative. This statement is generally effective for contracts entered into or modified after June 30, 2003 and for hedging relationships designated after June 30, 2003. The adoption of SFAS 149 did not have a material effect on our financial position or results of operations.

     In January 2003, the FASB issued Interpretation (“FIN”) No. 46, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities” and in December 2003, a revised interpretation was issued (FIN No. 46, as revised). In general, a variable interest entity (“VIE”) is a corporation, partnership, trust, or any other legal structure used for business purposes that either does not have equity investors with voting rights or has equity investors that do not provide sufficient financial resources for the entity to support its activities. FIN 46, as revised, requires a VIE to be consolidated by a company if that company is designated as the primary beneficiary. The interpretation applies to VIEs created after January 31, 2003, and for all financial statements issued after December 15, 2003 for VIEs in which an enterprise held a variable interest that it acquired before February 1,

34


2003. The adoption of FIN 46, as revised, did not have a material effect on our financial position or results of operations.

     In December 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation  Transition and Disclosure.” This statement amends SFAS 148 providesNo. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” to provide alternative methods of transition for an entity that voluntarily changesa voluntary change to the fair value based method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation. It alsoIn addition, SFAS 148 amends the disclosure provisionsrequirements of SFAS 123 to require prominent disclosuredisclosures in both annual and interim financial statements about the effects on reported net income of an entity’s accounting policy decisions with respect to stock-based employee compensation. Finally, this Statement amends APB 28, “Interim Financial Reporting,” to require disclosure about those effects in interim financial information. The amendments to SFAS 123 that provide alternative methods of transition for an entity that voluntarily changes to the fair value based method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation and the effect of the method used on reported results. We adopted the disclosure provisions of this standard. We are currently assessing the fair value approach under SFAS 123 and the transitional provisions of SFAS 148.

     In November 2002, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 45, “Guarantor’s Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others”, (“FIN 45”). FIN 45 addresses the disclosures to be made by a guarantor in its interim and annual financial statements about its obligations under guarantees. The disclosure requirements in this Interpretation are effective for financial statements for fiscal yearsof interim or annual periods ending after December 15, 2002. The amendmentadoption of FIN 45 did not have a material effect on our financial position or results of operations.

     In June 2002, the FASB issued SFAS 146, “Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities”. This Statement addresses financial accounting and reporting for costs associated with exit or disposal activities and nullifies EITF Issue No. 94-3, “Liability Recognition for Certain Employee Termination Benefits and Other Costs to Exit an Activity (including Certain Costs Incurred in a Restructuring)”. The principal difference between this Statement and EITF 94-3 relates to the Statement’s requirements for recognition of a liability for a cost associated with an exit or disposal activity. This Statement requires that a liability for a cost associated with an exit or disposal activity be recognized when the liability is incurred, whereas under EITF 94-3, a liability was recognized at the date of an entity’s commitment to an exit plan. We adopted the provisions of SFAS 123 relating to disclosures146 in the fourth quarter of 2002 and recorded our 2002 restructuring in accordance with such provisions.

     In October 2001, the amendment to APB 28 isFASB issued SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets.” SFAS 144 addresses financial accounting and reporting for the impairment or disposal of long-lived assets. The provisions of this statement were effective for financial reports containing condensed financial statements issued for interim periodsfiscal years beginning after December 15, 2002. Management does not intend to adopt the fair value accounting provisions of SFAS 123 and currently believes that the2001. The adoption of SFAS 148 will144 did not have a material impact on our financial statements.

30


statements or results of operations.

     In January 2003,June 2001, the FASB issued Interpretation (FIN)SFAS No. 46, “Consolidation143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations,” which addresses financial accounting requirements for retirement obligations associated with tangible long-lived assets. In May 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 145, “Rescission of Variable Interest Entities.FASB Statements 4, 44, 64, Amendment to FASB Statement No. 13, and Technical Corrections as of April 2002.FIN 46 isSFAS 145 amends other existing authoritative pronouncements to make various technical corrections, clarify meanings, or describe their applicability under changed conditions. SFAS 143 and 145 were effective immediately for all enterprises with variable interests in variable interest entities created after January 31, 2003. The issuance of FIN 46 had nocommencing April 1, 2003 and did not have a material effect on our financial statements.position or results of operations.

 
ITEM  7A.QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Market Risk

     As a result of the scope of our global operations, we are exposed to an element of market risk from changes in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates. Our results of operations and financial condition could be impacted by this risk. We manage our exposure to market risk through our regular operating and financial activities and, to the extent appropriate, through the use of derivative financial instruments.

     We employ derivative financial instruments as risk management tools and not for speculative or trading purposes. We monitor the use of derivative financial instruments through the use of objective measurable systems, well-defined market and credit risk limits, and timely reports to senior management according to prescribed guidelines. We have established strict counter-party credit guidelines and enter into transactions only with

35


financial institutions with a rating of investment grade or better. As a result, we consider the risk of counter-party default to be minimal.

Interest Rate Market Risk Exposure

     Changes in interest rates affect the interest paid on certain of our debt. To mitigate the impact of fluctuations in interest rates, our management has developed and implemented a policy to maintain the percentage of fixed and variable rate debt within certain parameters. WeFrom time to time, we maintain thea fixed/variable rate mix within these parameters either by borrowing on a fixed rate basis or entering into interest rate swap transactions. In the interest rate swaps, we agree to exchange, at specified levels, the difference between fixed and variable interest amounts calculated by reference to an agreed-upon notional principal linked to LIBOR. During 2002,the first part of 2003, we utilized an interest rate swap agreementsagreement to effectively convert approximately $125 million of fixed rate debt into variable rate debt. As a result, during 2002,2003, our interest expense was approximately $3.5$2.4 million lower than it would have been in the absence of our interest rate swap agreements. If the LIBORagreement. This interest rate increasesswap agreement was unwound in the future,May 2003 and, as of December 28, 2003, we may be required to pay moredid not have any interest expense than we would payrate swap agreements in the absence of the swap agreements. We currently maintain 70% and 30% of our total long-term debt in fixed and variable interest rates, respectively.place.

Foreign Currency Exchange Market Risk Exposure

     A significant portion of our operations consists of manufacturing and sales activities in foreign jurisdictions. We manufacture our products in the U.S.,United States, Canada, England, Northern Ireland, the Netherlands, Australia and Thailand, and sell our products in more than 100 countries. As a result, our financial results could be significantly affected by factors such as changes in foreign currency exchange rates or weak economic conditions in the foreign markets in which we distribute our products. Our operating results are exposed to changes in exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and many other currencies, including the euro, British pound sterling, Canadian dollar, Australian dollar, Thai baht and Japanese yen. When the U.S. dollar strengthens against a foreign currency, the value of anticipated sales in those currencies decreases, and vice versa. Additionally, to the extent our foreign operations with functional currencies other than the U.S. dollar transact business in countries other than the U.S.,United States, exchange rate changes between two foreign currencies could ultimately impact us. Finally, because we report in U.S. dollars on a consolidated basis, foreign currency exchange fluctuations cancould have a translation impact on our financial position.

     At December 29, 2002,28, 2003, we recognized a $21.1$38.8 million increase in our foreign currency translation adjustment account compared to December 30, 2001,29, 2002, because of the strengthening of certain currencies against the U.S. dollar. The increase was associated primarily with certain foreign subsidiaries located within the U.K.United Kingdom and continental Europe.

31


Sensitivity Analysis

     For purposes of specific risk analysis, we use sensitivity analysis to measure the impact that market risk may have on the fair values of our market-sensitive instruments.

     To perform sensitivity analysis, we assess the risk of loss in fair values associated with the impact of hypothetical changes in interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates on market-sensitive instruments. The market value of instruments affected by interest rate and foreign currency exchange rate risk is computed based on the present value of future cash flows as impacted by the changes in the rates attributable to the market risk being measured. The discount rates used for the present value computations were selected based on market interest and foreign currency exchange rates in effect at December 29, 2002.28, 2003. The values that result from these computations are then compared with the market values of the financial instruments. The differences are the hypothetical gains or losses associated with each type of risk.

Interest Rate Risk

     Based on a hypothetical immediate 150 basis point increase in interest rates, with all other variables held constant, the fair value of our fixed rate long-term debt and interest rate swap agreement would be impacted by a net decrease of $22.7$29.1 million.

36


Conversely, a 150 basis point decrease in interest rates would result in a net increase in the fair value of our fixed rate long-term debt of $24.5$30.9 million.

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk

     As of December 29, 2002,28, 2003, a 10% decrease or increase in the levels of foreign currency exchange rates against the U.S. dollar, with all other variables held constant, would result in a decrease in the fair value of our financial instruments of $6.3$6.2 million or an increase in the fair value of our financial instruments of $5.1 million.$5.0 million, respectively. As the impact of offsetting changes in the fair market value of our net foreign investments is not included in the sensitivity model, these results are not indicative of our actual exposure to foreign currency exchange risk.

3237


 
ITEM 8.FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

                         
Fiscal Year EndedFiscal Year Ended


200220012000200320022001






(In thousands, except share data)(In thousands, except share data)
Net salesNet sales $924,084 $1,058,846 $1,223,895 Net sales $923,509 $924,084 $1,058,846 
Cost of salesCost of sales 659,910 746,320 844,447 Cost of sales 670,532 659,910 746,320 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
Gross profit on salesGross profit on sales 264,174 312,526 379,448 Gross profit on sales 252,977 264,174 312,526 
Selling, general and administrative expensesSelling, general and administrative expenses 225,569 259,039 291,548 Selling, general and administrative expenses 231,306 225,569 259,039 
Restructuring chargesRestructuring charges 23,449 54,577 21,047 Restructuring charges 6,196 23,449 54,577 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
Operating income (loss)Operating income (loss) 15,156 (1,090) 66,853 Operating income (loss) 15,475 15,156 (1,090)
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
Other expenseOther expense Other expense 
Interest expense 42,022 35,887 36,959 Interest expense 42,820 42,022 35,887 
Other 798 490 479 Other 1,280 798 490 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
Total other expenseTotal other expense 42,820 36,377 37,438 Total other expense 44,100 42,820 36,377 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
Income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes on income (benefit) (27,664) (37,467) 29,415 
Taxes on income (benefit) (9,905) (11,546) 12,352 
Loss from continuing operations before tax benefitLoss from continuing operations before tax benefit (28,625) (27,664) (37,467)
Income tax benefitIncome tax benefit (10,215) (9,905) (11,546)
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
Income (loss) from continuing operations (17,759) (25,921) 17,063 
Discontinued operations, net of tax (14,525) (10,366) 258 
Loss from continuing operationsLoss from continuing operations (18,410) (17,759) (25,921)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of taxLoss from discontinued operations, net of tax (6,022) (14,525) (10,366)
Loss on disposal of discontinued operations, net of taxLoss on disposal of discontinued operations, net of tax (8,825)   
Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle, net of taxCumulative effect of a change in accounting principle, net of tax (55,380)   Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle, net of tax  (55,380)  
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
Net income (loss) $(87,664) $(36,287) $17,321 
Net lossNet loss $(33,257) $(87,664) $(36,287)
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share 
Basic and diluted loss per common shareBasic and diluted loss per common share 
Income (loss) from continuing operations $(0.36) $(0.52) $0.34 Loss from continuing operations $(0.36) $(0.36) $(0.52)
Discontinued operations (0.29) (0.20)  Loss from discontinued operations (0.12) (0.29) (0.20)
Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle (1.10)   Loss on disposal of discontinued operations (0.18)   
 
 
 
 Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle  (1.10)  
Net income (loss) $(1.75) $(0.72) $0.34   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Net loss $(0.66) $(1.75) $(0.72)
 
 
 
 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

                      
Fiscal Year EndedFiscal Year Ended


200220012000200320022001






(In thousands)(In thousands)
Net income (loss) $(87,664) $(36,287) $17,321 
Net lossNet loss $(33,257) $(87,664) $(36,287)
Other comprehensive income (loss)Other comprehensive income (loss) Other comprehensive income (loss) 
Foreign currency translation adjustment 21,099 (14,024) (19,281)Foreign currency translation adjustment 38,829 21,099 (14,024)
Minimum pension liability adjustment (14,892) (11,061)  Minimum pension liability adjustment (9,104) (14,892) (11,061)
Unrealized gain on fair value hedges, net of tax 3,154   Unrealized gain on hedges, net of tax (3,154) 3,154  
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
Comprehensive lossComprehensive loss $(78,303) $(61,372) $(1,960)Comprehensive loss $(6,686) $(78,303) $(61,372)
 
 
 
   
 
 
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

3338


CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

                  
2002200120032002




(In thousands)(In thousands)
Assets
Assets
 
Assets
 
CurrentCurrent Current 
Cash $34,134 $788 Cash $16,633 $34,134 
Accounts receivable, net 137,486 154,944 Accounts receivable, net 174,366 137,486 
Inventories 134,656 159,497 Inventories 143,885 134,656 
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 33,042 30,360 Prepaid expenses and other current assets 18,608 33,042 
Deferred income taxes 9,911 17,640 Deferred income taxes 5,454 9,911 
Assets of business held for sale 17,492 37,018 Assets of business held for sale  17,492 
 
 
   
 
 
Total current assetsTotal current assets 366,721 400,247 Total current assets 358,946 366,721 
Property and equipment, netProperty and equipment, net 213,059 241,917 Property and equipment, net 211,457 213,059 
Deferred tax assetDeferred tax asset 62,045 27,502 
OtherOther 73,201 63,351 Other 37,697 45,699 
GoodwillGoodwill 210,529 249,239 Goodwill 224,129 210,529 
 
 
   
 
 
 $863,510 $954,754   $894,274 $863,510 
 
 
   
 
 
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
 
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
 
Current liabilitiesCurrent liabilities Current liabilities 
Accounts payable $55,836 $62,068 Accounts payable $62,352 $55,836 
Accrued expenses 106,143 94,632 Accrued expenses 128,104 106,143 
Current maturities of long-term debt  1,667 Liabilities of business held for sale  6,933 
Liabilities of business held for sale 6,933 17,598   
 
 
 
 
 
Total current liabilitiesTotal current liabilities 168,912 175,965 Total current liabilities 190,456 168,912 
Long-term debt, less current maturities  171,827 
Senior notesSenior notes 325,000 150,000 Senior notes 325,000 325,000 
Senior subordinated notesSenior subordinated notes 120,000 125,000 Senior subordinated notes 120,000 120,000 
Deferred income taxesDeferred income taxes 20,520 25,047 Deferred income taxes 32,462 20,520 
OtherOther 4,165  
 
 
   
 
 
Total liabilitiesTotal liabilities 634,432 647,839 Total liabilities 672,083 634,432 
 
 
   
 
 
Minority interestMinority interest 4,907 4,440 Minority interest 3,458 4,907 
 
 
   
 
 
Shareholders’ equityShareholders’ equity Shareholders’ equity 
Preferred stock   Preferred stock   
Common stock 5,120 5,082 Common stock 5,135 5,120 
Additional paid-in capital 221,751 219,490 Additional paid-in capital 222,984 221,751 
Retained earnings 85,976 175,940 Retained earnings 52,719 85,976 
Foreign currency translation adjustment (65,877) (86,976)Foreign currency translation adjustment (27,048) (65,877)
Minimum pension liability (25,953) (11,061)Minimum pension liability (35,057) (25,953)
Unrealized gain on fair value hedges, net of tax 3,154  Unrealized gain on hedges, net of tax  3,154 
 
 
   
 
 
Total shareholders’ equityTotal shareholders’ equity 224,171 302,475 Total shareholders’ equity 218,733 224,171 
 
 
   
 
 
 $863,510 $954,754   $894,274 $863,510 
 
 
   
 
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

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CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

            
             
Fiscal Year Ended
Fiscal Year Ended
200220012000200320022001






(In thousands)(In thousands)
Operating Activities
Operating Activities
 
Operating Activities
 
Net income (loss) $(87,664) $(36,287) $17,321 
Net lossNet loss $(33,257) $(87,664) $(36,287)
Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principleCumulative effect of a change in accounting principle  55,380  
Loss from discontinued operationsLoss from discontinued operations 6,022 14,525 10,366 
Loss from disposal of discontinued operationsLoss from disposal of discontinued operations 8,825   
 
 
 
 
Loss from continuing operationsLoss from continuing operations (18,410) (17,759) (25,921)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash provided by operating activitiesAdjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash provided by operating activities Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash provided by operating activities 
Depreciation and amortizationDepreciation and amortization 35,328 46,421 49,586 Depreciation and amortization 37,257 35,328 46,421 
Bad debt expenseBad debt expense 3,511 5,774 5,909 Bad debt expense 2,929 3,511 5,774 
Restructuring chargesRestructuring charges 12,785 33,247 8,210 Restructuring charges  12,785 33,247 
Deferred income taxesDeferred income taxes 1,195 (18,784) (7,209)Deferred income taxes (12,399) 1,195 (18,784)
Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle 55,380   
Loss (income) from discontinued operations 14,525 10,366 (258)
Working capital changesWorking capital changes Working capital changes 
Accounts receivable 20,579 17,571 3,757 Accounts receivable (30,485) 20,579 17,571 
Inventories 27,224 22,702 (6,513)Inventories (507) 27,224 22,702 
Prepaid expenses 5,341 (18,726) 3,217 Prepaid expenses and other current assets (885) 5,341 (18,726)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses (19,542) (46,355) 4,480 Accounts payable and accrued expenses 24,589 (19,542) (46,355)
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
Cash provided by operating activities from continuing operationsCash provided by operating activities from continuing operations 68,662 15,929 78,500 Cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations 2,089 68,662 15,929 
Cash provided by (used in) operating activities of discontinued operationsCash provided by (used in) operating activities of discontinued operations (11,285) 2,373 (7,068)Cash provided by (used in) operating activities of discontinued operations (10,584) (11,285) 2,373 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
Cash provided by operating activities 57,377 18,302 71,432 
Cash provided by (used in) operating activitiesCash provided by (used in) operating activities (8,495) 57,377 18,302 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
Investing Activities
Investing Activities
 
Investing Activities
 
Capital expendituresCapital expenditures (14,344) (30,036) (30,495)Capital expenditures (16,328) (14,344) (30,036)
Net cash paid for acquisitions of businessesNet cash paid for acquisitions of businesses  (2,198) (29,872)Net cash paid for acquisitions of businesses   (2,198)
Proceeds from sale of discontinued operationsProceeds from sale of discontinued operations 2,749   
OtherOther (397) (12,447) (10,876)Other 2,593 (397) (12,447)
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
Cash used in investing activitiesCash used in investing activities (14,741) (44,681) (71,243)Cash used in investing activities (10,986) (14,741) (44,681)
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
Financing Activities
Financing Activities
 
Financing Activities
 
Issuance of senior notesIssuance of senior notes 175,000   Issuance of senior notes  175,000  
Repurchase of senior subordinated notesRepurchase of senior subordinated notes (5,000)   Repurchase of senior subordinated notes  (5,000)  
Debt issuance costsDebt issuance costs (5,755)   Debt issuance costs  (5,755)  
Borrowings on long-term debtBorrowings on long-term debt  341,140 211,323 Borrowings on long-term debt   341,140 
Principal repayments on long-term debtPrincipal repayments on long-term debt (173,489) (309,882) (191,023)Principal repayments on long-term debt  (173,489) (309,882)
Expenditures under share repurchase programExpenditures under share repurchase program  (2,217) (6,842)Expenditures under share repurchase program   (2,217)
Proceeds from issuance of common stockProceeds from issuance of common stock 1,341 269 496 Proceeds from issuance of common stock 241 1,341 269 
Dividends paidDividends paid (2,300) (7,628) (9,243)Dividends paid  (2,300) (7,628)
OtherOther  (1,272)  Other 182  (1,272)
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
Cash provided by (used in) financing activitiesCash provided by (used in) financing activities (10,203) 20,410 4,711 Cash provided by (used in) financing activities 423 (10,203) 20,410 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
Net cash provided by (used in) operating, investing and financing activitiesNet cash provided by (used in) operating, investing and financing activities 32,433 (5,969) 4,900 Net cash provided by (used in) operating, investing and financing activities (19,058) 32,433 (5,969)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cashEffect of exchange rate changes on cash 913 (1,099) 413 Effect of exchange rate changes on cash 1,557 913 (1,099)
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
Cash
Cash
 
Cash
 
Net increase (decrease)Net increase (decrease) 33,346 (7,068) 5,313 Net increase (decrease) (17,501) 33,346 (7,068)
Balance, beginning of yearBalance, beginning of year 788 7,856 2,543 Balance, beginning of year 34,134 788 7,856 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
Balance, end of yearBalance, end of year $34,134 $788 $7,856 Balance, end of year $16,633 $34,134 $788 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

3540


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Nature of Operations

     The Company is a recognized leader in the worldwide commercial interiors market, offering modular and broadloom floorcoverings, interior fabrics, services and specialty products and services.products. The Company manufactures modular and broadloom carpet focusing on the high quality, designer-oriented sector of the market, and provides specialized carpet replacement, installation and maintenance services. The Company also produces interior fabrics and upholstery products. Additionally, the Company produces raised/access flooring systems; offersIntersept, a proprietary antimicrobial used in a number of interior finishes;finishes, and sponsors the Envirosense Consortium in its mission to address workplace environmental issues.

     The Company has announcedsold its intent to sell or otherwise create a joint venture or strategic alliance for itsU.S. raised/access flooring business. The balances of this business have been segregated and reported as discontinued operations for all periods presented.

Principles of Consolidation

     The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries. All material intercompany accounts and transactions are eliminated.

Use of Estimates

     The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Examples include provisions for returns, bad debts, product claims reserves, estimates of costs to complete performance contracts, inventory obsolescence and the length of product life cycles, accruals associated with restructuring activities, income tax exposures, environmental liabilities, and the carrying value of the goodwill and property and equipment. Actual results could vary from these estimates.

Fiscal Year

     The Company’s fiscal year is the 52 or 53 week period ending on the Sunday nearest December 31. All references herein to “2003,” “2002,” and “2001,” mean the fiscal years ended December 28, 2003, December 29, 2002, and December 30, 2001, respectively. Fiscal years 2003, 2002 and 2001 each comprised 52 weeks.

Reclassifications

     Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to current year financial statement presentation.

Inventories

     The Company determines the value of inventories using the lower of cost (standards approximating the first-in, first-out method) or market. We write down inventories for the difference between the carrying value of the inventories and their estimated market value. If actual market conditions are less favorable than those projected by management, additional write-downs may be required.

Assets and Liabilities of Businesses Held for Sale

     The Company considers businesses to be held for sale when management approves and commits to a formal plan to actively market a business for sale. Upon designation as held for sale, the carrying value of the

41


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

assets of the business are recorded at the lower of their carrying value or their estimated fair value, less costs to sell. The Company ceases to record depreciation expense at that time.

Property and Equipment and Long-Lived Assets

     Property and equipment are carried at cost. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives: buildings and improvements — ten to fifty years; and furniture and equipment — three to twelve years. Interest costs for the construction/development of certain long-term assets are capitalized and amortized over the related assets’ estimated useful lives. The Company capitalized net interest costs of approximately $0.3 million, $0.1 million, $0.7 million, and $0.5$0.7 million for the fiscal years ended 2003, 2002, 2001, and 2000,2001, respectively. Depreciation expense amounted to approximately $32.2 million, $30.9 million, $33.3 million, and $36.9$33.3 million for the years ended 2003, 2002, 2001, and 2000,2001, respectively. These amounts exclude depreciation

36


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

expense of approximately $0.0 million, $0.8 million, and $1.3 million for 2003, 2002 and $1.0 million for 2002, 2001, and 2000, respectively, related to the discontinued operations of the U.S. raised/access flooring business.

     In October 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets.” SFAS 144 addresses financial accounting and reporting for the impairment or disposal of long-lived assets. The provisions of this statement were effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2001. The adoption of SFAS 144 did not have a material impact on our financial statements.

     Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. If the sum of the expected future undiscounted cash flow is less than the carrying amount of the asset, a loss is recognized for the difference between the fair value and carrying value of the asset.

     In June 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) approved the issuance of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations.” SFAS 143 establishes accounting standards for the recognition Repair and measurement of legal obligations associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived assets and requires recognition of a liability for an asset retirement obligation in the period in which it ismaintenance costs are charged to operating expense as incurred. The provisions of this statement are effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after June 15, 2002. Management is in the process of evaluating the impact this standard will have on the Company’s financial statements.

Goodwill

     Goodwill is the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired in business combinations accounted for as purchases. Prior to the adoption of SFAS 142 on December 31, 2001, goodwill was amortized on a straight-line basis over the periods benefited, principally twenty-five to forty years. Accumulated amortization amounted to approximately $88.3 million at both December 29, 200228, 2003 and December 30, 2001,29, 2002, and cumulative impairment losses recognized were $57.2 million as of December 28, 2003 and December 29, 2002.

     In June 2001, the FASB finalized SFAS No. 141, “Business Combinations,” and SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.” SFAS 141 requires the use of the purchase method of accounting and prohibits the use of the pooling-of-interests method of accounting for business combinations initiated after June 30, 2001. SFAS 141 also requiresrequired that the Company recognize acquired intangible assets apart from goodwill if the acquired intangible assets meet certain criteria. SFAS 141 applies to all business combinations initiated after June 30, 2001, and to purchase business combinations completed on or after July 1, 2001. It also requires, upon adoption of SFAS 142, that the Company reclassify the carrying amounts of intangible assets and goodwill based on the criteria in SFAS 141.

     SFAS 142 requires, among other things, that companies no longer amortize goodwill, but instead test goodwill for impairment at least annually. In addition, SFAS 142 requires that the Company identify reporting units for the purposes of assessing potential future impairments of goodwill, reassess the useful lives of other existing recognized intangible assets, and cease amortization of intangible assets with an indefinite useful life. An intangible asset with an indefinite useful life should be tested for impairment in accordance with the guidance in SFAS 142. SFAS 142 is required to be applied in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2001 to all goodwill and other intangible assets recognized at that date, regardless of when those assets were initially recognized. SFAS 142 required the Company to complete a transitional goodwill impairment test six months from the date of adoption. The Company was also required to reassess the useful lives of other intangible assets within the first interim quarter after adoption of SFAS 142.

The Company’s previous business combinations were accounted for using the purchase method. As of December 29, 200228, 2003 and December 30, 2001,29, 2002, the net carrying amount of goodwill was $224.1 million and $210.5 million, respectively. Other intangible assets were $4.2 million and $249.2 million, respectively, excluding goodwill of $2.6$4.4 million as of December 30, 2001 related to the

37


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

discontinued operations of the raised/access flooring business. Other intangible assets were $4.4 million28, 2003 and $4.5 million as of December 29, 2002, and December 30, 2001, respectively. Amortization expense during the years ended December 28, 2003, December 29, 2002 and December 30, 2001 and December 31, 2000 was $0.2 million, $9.8$0.2 million and $9.3$9.8 million, respectively.

     The Company adopted the new standards of accounting for goodwill and other intangible assets beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2002. In the second quarter of 2002, the Company completed the transitional goodwill impairment test required by SFAS 142. The Company used an outside consultant to help prepare valuations of reporting units in accordance with the new standard, and those valuations were compared with the respective book values of the reporting units to determine whether any goodwill impairment existed. In preparing the valuations, past, present and future expectations of performance were considered. The test showed goodwill impairment in three overseas reporting units and five Americas reporting units. In all cases, the impairment primarily was attributable to actual and currently-forecastedthen-forecasted revenue and profitability for the reporting unit being lower (consistent with the industry-wide decline in carpet sales and related services) than that anticipated at the time of the acquisition of the reporting unit. The effect of this accounting change (an after-tax charge of $55.4 million, or $1.10 per diluted share) has beenwas recorded as the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle effective the first quarter of

42


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

fiscal 2002, as required by SFAS 142. The charge had no cash effect, and, as required, iswas presented net of tax.

     During the fourth quarter of 2002,2003, the Company performed the annual goodwill impairment test required by SFAS 142 using a methodology similar to the transitional test. No additional impairment was indicated.

     The following table presents the impact SFAS 142 would have had on income (loss)a loss from continuing operations, net income (loss), and the respective per share amounts, if adopted in the first quarter of 2000:2001:

              
200220012000



(In thousands, except
per share amounts)
Reported income (loss) from continuing operations $(17,759) $(25,921) $17,063 
Adjustments:            
 Goodwill amortization     9,817   9,366 
 Income taxes     (1,460)  (1,280)
   
   
   
 
Adjusted income (loss) from continuing operations $(17,759) $(17,564) $25,149 
   
   
   
 
Reported net income (loss) $(87,664) $(36,287) $17,321 
Adjustments:            
 Goodwill amortization     9,817   9,366 
 Income taxes     (1,460)  (1,280)
   
   
   
 
Adjusted net income (loss) $(87,664) $(27,930) $25,407 
   
   
   
 

38


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
               
200220012000



(In thousands, except
per share amounts)
Basic earnings per share:            
 Income (loss) from continuing operations:            
  Reported $(0.36) $(0.52) $0.34 
  Adjusted $(0.36) $(0.35) $0.50 
 Net income (loss):            
  Reported $(1.75) $(0.72) $0.34 
  Adjusted $(1.75) $(0.56) $0.50 
Diluted earnings per share:            
 Income (loss) from continuing operations:            
  Reported $(0.36) $(0.52) $0.34 
  Adjusted $(0.36) $(0.35) $0.49 
 Net income (loss):            
  Reported $(1.75) $(0.72) $0.34 
  Adjusted $(1.75) $(0.56) $0.50 
               
200320022001



(In thousands, except
per share amounts)
Reported loss from continuing operations $(18,410) $(17,759) $(25,921)
 Adjustments:            
  Goodwill amortization        9,817 
  Income taxes        (1,460)
   
   
   
 
Adjusted loss from continuing operations $(18,410) $(17,759) $(17,564)
   
   
   
 
Reported net loss $(33,257) $(87,664) $(36,287)
Adjustments:            
 Goodwill amortization        9,817 
 Income taxes        (1,460)
 Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle, net of tax     55,380    
   
   
   
 
Adjusted net loss $(33,257) $(32,284) $(27,930)
   
   
   
 
Basic and diluted loss per share:            
Loss from continuing operations:            
 Reported $(0.36) $(0.36) $(0.52)
 Adjusted $(0.36) $(0.36) $(0.35)
Net loss:            
 Reported $(0.66) $(1.75) $(0.72)
 Adjusted $(0.66) $(0.64) $(0.56)

     The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the year ended December 29, 2002,28, 2003, by operating segment are as follows:

                 
BalanceImpairmentBalance
December 30,LossForeign CurrencyDecember 29,
2001RecognizedTranslation Gain2002




(In thousands)
Floorcovering Products/Services $201,327  $(54,587) $13,512  $160,252 
Interior Fabrics  47,912      2,365   50,277 
   
   
   
   
 
Total continuing operations  249,239   (54,587)  15,877   210,529 
Discontinued operations  2,635   (2,635)      
   
   
   
   
 
  $251,874  $(57,222) $15,877  $210,529 
   
   
   
   
 
                 
BalanceBalance
December 29,Foreign CurrencyDecember 28,
2002AcquisitionsTranslation2003




(In thousands)
Modular Carpet $69,499  $  $11,651  $81,150 
Broadloom  60,113         60,113 
Services  33,006         33,006 
Fabrics Group  47,911   699   1,250   49,860 
Specialty Products            
   
   
   
   
 
Total $210,529  $699  $12,901  $224,129 
   
   
   
   
 

Taxes on Income

     The Company accounts for income taxes under an asset and liability approach that requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have

43


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

been recognized in the Company’s financial statements or tax returns. In estimating future tax consequences, the Company generally considers all expected future events other than enactments of changes in tax laws or rates. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates will be recognized as income or expense in the period that includes the enactment date.

     The Company records a valuation allowance to reduce our deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will expire before realization of the benefit or that future deductibility is not probable. The ultimate realization of the deferred tax assets depends on the ability to generate sufficient taxable income of the appropriate character in the future. This requires us to use estimates and make assumptions regarding significant future events such as the taxability of entities operating in the various taxing jurisdictions.

Revenue RecognitionFiscal Year

     RevenueThe Company’s fiscal year is recognizedthe 52 or 53 week period ending on the sale of products or services whenSunday nearest December 31. All references herein to “2003,” “2002,” and “2001,” mean the products are shipped or the services are performed, all significant contractual obligationsfiscal years ended December 28, 2003, December 29, 2002, and December 30, 2001, respectively. Fiscal years 2003, 2002 and 2001 each comprised 52 weeks.

Reclassifications

     Certain prior period amounts have been satisfied, andreclassified to conform to current year financial statement presentation.

Inventories

     The Company determines the collectionvalue of inventories using the lower of cost (standards approximating the first-in, first-out method) or market. We write down inventories for the difference between the carrying value of the resulting receivable is reasonably assured.inventories and their estimated market value. If actual market conditions are less favorable than those projected by management, additional write-downs may be required.

Assets and Liabilities of Businesses Held for Sale

     The Company’s delivery term typically is F.O.B. shipping point. RevenuesCompany considers businesses to be held for sale when management approves and estimated profits on performance contracts are recognized undercommits to a formal plan to actively market a business for sale. Upon designation as held for sale, the percentagecarrying value of completion method of accounting using the cost-to-cost methodology. Profit estimates are revised periodically based upon changes in facts. Any losses identified on contracts are recognized immediately.

3941


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

     In accordance with EITF 00-10, shippingassets of the business are recorded at the lower of their carrying value or their estimated fair value, less costs to sell. The Company ceases to record depreciation expense at that time.

Property and handling fees billedEquipment and Long-Lived Assets

     Property and equipment are carried at cost. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the following estimated useful lives: buildings and improvements — ten to customersfifty years; furniture and equipment — three to twelve years. Interest costs for the construction/development of certain long-term assets are classified incapitalized and amortized over the related assets’ estimated useful lives. The Company capitalized net sales ininterest costs of approximately $0.3 million, $0.1 million, and $0.7 million for the consolidated statementsfiscal years ended 2003, 2002, and 2001, respectively. Depreciation expense amounted to approximately $32.2 million, $30.9 million, and $33.3 million for the years ended 2003, 2002, and 2001, respectively. These amounts exclude depreciation expense of operations. Shippingapproximately $0.0 million, $0.8 million, and handling costs incurred are classified in cost of sales in the consolidated statements of operations.

     Pursuant$1.3 million for 2003, 2002 and 2001, respectively, related to the Securitiesdiscontinued operations of the U.S. raised/access flooring business.

     Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. If the sum of the expected future undiscounted cash flow is less than the carrying amount of the asset, a loss is recognized for the difference between the fair value and Exchange Commission’s Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB)carrying value of the asset. Repair and maintenance costs are charged to operating expense as incurred.

Goodwill

     Goodwill is the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired in business combinations accounted for as purchases. Prior to the adoption of SFAS 142 on December 31, 2001, goodwill was amortized on a straight-line basis over the periods benefited, principally twenty-five to forty years. Accumulated amortization amounted to approximately $88.3 million at both December 28, 2003 and December 29, 2002, and cumulative impairment losses recognized were $57.2 million as of December 28, 2003 and December 29, 2002.

     In June 2001, the FASB finalized SFAS No. 101, “Revenue Recognition in Financial Statements,141, “Business Combinations, and SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.” SFAS 141 requires the use of the purchase method of accounting and prohibits the use of the pooling-of-interests method of accounting for business combinations initiated after June 30, 2001. SFAS 141 also required that the Company has reviewed its accounting policies forrecognize acquired intangible assets apart from goodwill if the recognitionacquired intangible assets meet certain criteria. SFAS 141 applies to all business combinations initiated after June 30, 2001, and to purchase business combinations completed on or after July 1, 2001. It also requires, upon adoption of revenue. SAB No. 101 was required to be implementedSFAS 142, that the Company reclassify the carrying amounts of intangible assets and goodwill based on the criteria in fourth quarter 2000. SAB No. 101 provides guidance on applying generally accepted accounting principles to revenue recognition in financial statements.SFAS 141.

     The Company’s policiesprevious business combinations were accounted for revenue recognition are consistent withusing the views expressed within SAB No. 101.

Cash, Cash Equivalentspurchase method. As of December 28, 2003 and Short-Term Investments

     Highly liquid investments with insignificant interest rate riskDecember 29, 2002, the net carrying amount of goodwill was $224.1 million and with original maturities$210.5 million, respectively. Other intangible assets were $4.2 million and $4.4 million as of three months or less are classified as cashDecember 28, 2003 and cash equivalents. Investments with maturities greater than three months and less than one year are classified as short-term investments.

     AtDecember 29, 2002, respectively. Amortization expense during the years ended December 28, 2003, December 29, 2002 and December 30, 2001 checks issued against future deposits totaled approximately $1.1was $0.2 million, $0.2 million and $20.2$9.8 million, respectively. Cash payments for interest amounted to approximately $35.1 million, $42.6 million, and $41.4 million, for the years ended 2002, 2001, and 2000, respectively. Income tax payments amounted to approximately $0.6 million, $5.8 million, and $11.8 million, for the years ended 2002, 2001, and 2000, respectively.

Fair Values of Financial Instruments

     Fair values of cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and short-term debt approximate cost due to the short period of time to maturity. Fair values of debt and swaps are based on quoted market prices or pricing models using current market rates.

Translation of Foreign Currencies

     The financial positionCompany adopted the new standards of accounting for goodwill and results of operations of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries are measured generally using local currencies as the functional currency. Assets and liabilities of these subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rate in effect at each year-end. Income and expense items are translated at average exchange rates for the year. The resulting translation adjustments are recordedother intangible assets beginning in the foreign currency translation adjustment account.first quarter of fiscal 2002. In the eventsecond quarter of a divestiture of a foreign subsidiary, the related foreign currency translation results are reversed from equity to income. Foreign currency exchange gains and losses are included in income.

Stock Based Compensation

     As of the fiscal year ended 2002, the Company has stock-based employee compensation plans, which are described more fullycompleted the transitional goodwill impairment test required by SFAS 142. In preparing the valuations, past, present and future expectations of performance were considered. The test showed goodwill impairment in three overseas reporting units and five Americas reporting units. In all cases, the “Shareholders’ Equity” footnote. Those plans are accountedimpairment primarily was attributable to actual and then-forecasted revenue and profitability for using the intrinsic value method underreporting unit being lower (consistent with the recognitionindustry-wide decline in carpet sales and measurement principlesrelated services) than that anticipated at the time of Accounting Principles Board (APB) Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees”,the acquisition of the reporting unit. The effect of this accounting change (an after-tax charge of $55.4 million, or $1.10 per share) was recorded as allowed under the provisionscumulative effect of SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation.” Compensation expenses related to stock option plans were not material for 2002, 2001, and 2000.a change in accounting principle effective the first quarter of

4042


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

fiscal 2002, as required by SFAS 142. The charge had no cash effect, and, as required, was presented net of tax.

     During the fourth quarter of 2003, the Company performed the annual goodwill impairment test required by SFAS 142 using a methodology similar to the transitional test. No additional impairment was indicated.

     The following table illustratespresents the effect onimpact SFAS 142 would have had a loss from continuing operations, net income (loss), and earningsthe respective per share amounts, if adopted in the fair value recognition provisionsfirst quarter of SFAS 123 were applied to stock based employee compensation:2001:

              
Fiscal Year Ended

200220012000



(In thousands, except share data)
Net income (loss) as reported $(87,664) $(36,287) $17,321 
Deduct: Total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under fair value based method for all awards, net of related tax effects  (2,474)  (2,410)  (2,026)
   
   
   
 
 Pro forma net income (loss) $(90,138) $(38,697) $15,295 
   
   
   
 
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per share as reported $(1.75) $(0.72) $0.34 
Basic and diluted pro forma earnings (loss) per share  (1.80)  (0.77)  0.30 
               
200320022001



(In thousands, except
per share amounts)
Reported loss from continuing operations $(18,410) $(17,759) $(25,921)
 Adjustments:            
  Goodwill amortization        9,817 
  Income taxes        (1,460)
   
   
   
 
Adjusted loss from continuing operations $(18,410) $(17,759) $(17,564)
   
   
   
 
Reported net loss $(33,257) $(87,664) $(36,287)
Adjustments:            
 Goodwill amortization        9,817 
 Income taxes        (1,460)
 Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle, net of tax     55,380    
   
   
   
 
Adjusted net loss $(33,257) $(32,284) $(27,930)
   
   
   
 
Basic and diluted loss per share:            
Loss from continuing operations:            
 Reported $(0.36) $(0.36) $(0.52)
 Adjusted $(0.36) $(0.36) $(0.35)
Net loss:            
 Reported $(0.66) $(1.75) $(0.72)
 Adjusted $(0.66) $(0.64) $(0.56)

     ForThe changes in the purposescarrying amount of goodwill for the disclosures requiredyear ended December 28, 2003, by SFAS 123, the fair value of stock options is the estimated present value at grant date using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions for 2002, 2001, and 2000: Dividend yield of 0.0% in 2002, 1.2% in 2001, and 2.1% in 2000; expected volatility of 50% in 2002, 50% in 2001, and 40% in 2000; a risk-free interest rate of 4.51% in 2002, 5.09% in 2001, and 6.38% in 2000; and an expected option life of 6.5 years in 2002, 6.5 years in 2001, and 6.5 years in 2000.

     The weighted average fair value of options, calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, granted during 2002, 2001, and 2000 were $3.43, $2.95, and $2.55 per share, respectively.operating segment are as follows:

                 
BalanceBalance
December 29,Foreign CurrencyDecember 28,
2002AcquisitionsTranslation2003




(In thousands)
Modular Carpet $69,499  $  $11,651  $81,150 
Broadloom  60,113         60,113 
Services  33,006         33,006 
Fabrics Group  47,911   699   1,250   49,860 
Specialty Products            
   
   
   
   
 
Total $210,529  $699  $12,901  $224,129 
   
   
   
   
 

Derivative Financial InstrumentsTaxes on Income

     The Company adopted SFAS No. 133, “Accountingaccounts for Derivative Instrumentsincome taxes under an asset and Hedging Activities,” as amended, effective January 1, 2001. SFAS 133liability approach that requires a company to recognize all derivatives on the balance sheet at fair value. Derivativesrecognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that are not hedges must be adjusted to fair value through income. If the derivative is a fair value hedge, changeshave

43


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

been recognized in the fair value ofCompany’s financial statements or tax returns. In estimating future tax consequences, the hedged assets, liabilities or firm commitments are recognized through earnings. If the derivative is a cash flow hedge, the effective portionCompany generally considers all expected future events other than enactments of changes in tax laws or rates. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates will be recognized as income or expense in the fair valueperiod that includes the enactment date.

     The Company records a valuation allowance to reduce our deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the derivative are recognized in other comprehensive income untildeferred tax assets will expire before realization of the hedged itembenefit or that future deductibility is recognized in earnings.not probable. The ineffective portionultimate realization of a derivative’s change in fair value is immediately recognized in earnings. The adoption of SFAS 133, as amended, did not have a material impactthe deferred tax assets depends on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.ability to generate sufficient taxable income of the appropriate character in the future. This requires us to use estimates and make assumptions regarding significant future events such as the taxability of entities operating in the various taxing jurisdictions.

Fiscal Year

     The Company’s fiscal year is the 52 or 53 week period ending on the Sunday nearest December 31. All references herein to “2002,“2003,“2001,“2002,” and “2000,“2001,” mean the fiscal years ended December 28, 2003, December 29, 2002, and December 30, 2001, and December 31, 2000, respectively. Fiscal years 2003, 2002 2001 and 2000 were2001 each comprised of 52 weeks.

RECEIVABLESReclassifications

     Certain prior period amounts have been reclassified to conform to current year financial statement presentation.

Inventories

     The Company through a separate single purpose corporate entity, Interface Securitization Corporation (“ISC”), maintained during 2002 an agreement with a financial institutiondetermines the value of inventories using the lower of cost (standards approximating the first-in, first-out method) or market. We write down inventories for the difference between the carrying value of the inventories and their estimated market value. If actual market conditions are less favorable than those projected by management, additional write-downs may be required.

Assets and Liabilities of Businesses Held for Sale

     The Company considers businesses to sell commercial accounts receivable generated by certain of our operating subsidiaries. As of December 29, 2002, the agreement providedbe held for upsale when management approves and commits to a maximum amountformal plan to actively market a business for sale. Upon designation as held for sale, the carrying value of $50.0 million of funding from the sale of such receivables. (In February 2002, the maximum amount of funding available was reduced to from $65.0 million to $50.0 million.) Prior to December 2000, the Company had a similar program with another financial institution that began in 1995. As of December 29, 2002, Bentley Prince Street, Inc., Chatham Marketing Co., Guilford of Maine Marketing Co., Intek Marketing Co., Interface Americas, Inc., Interface Architectural Resources,

41


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Inc., Interface Flooring Systems, Inc., Pandel, Inc.assets of the business are recorded at the lower of their carrying value or their estimated fair value, less costs to sell. The Company ceases to record depreciation expense at that time.

Property and Toltec Fabrics, Inc. wereEquipment and Long-Lived Assets

     Property and equipment are carried at cost. Depreciation is computed using the only subsidiaries participating instraight-line method over the Securitization Program. Cash proceeds fromfollowing estimated useful lives: buildings and improvements — ten to fifty years; furniture and equipment — three to twelve years. Interest costs for the saleconstruction/development of certain long-term assets are capitalized and securitizationamortized over the related assets’ estimated useful lives. The Company capitalized net interest costs of these receivables were $35.0approximately $0.3 million, $0.1 million, and $20.0$0.7 million infor the fiscal years ended 2003, 2002, and 2001, respectively. No significant gainDepreciation expense amounted to approximately $32.2 million, $30.9 million, and $33.3 million for the years ended 2003, 2002, and 2001, respectively. These amounts exclude depreciation expense of approximately $0.0 million, $0.8 million, and $1.3 million for 2003, 2002 and 2001, respectively, related to the discontinued operations of the U.S. raised/access flooring business.

     Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. If the sum of the expected future undiscounted cash flow is less than the carrying amount of the asset, a loss resultedis recognized for the difference between the fair value and carrying value of the asset. Repair and maintenance costs are charged to operating expense as incurred.

Goodwill

     Goodwill is the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired in business combinations accounted for as purchases. Prior to the adoption of SFAS 142 on December 31, 2001, goodwill was amortized on a straight-line basis over the periods benefited, principally twenty-five to forty years. Accumulated amortization amounted to approximately $88.3 million at both December 28, 2003 and December 29, 2002, and cumulative impairment losses recognized were $57.2 million as of December 28, 2003 and December 29, 2002.

     In June 2001, the FASB finalized SFAS No. 141, “Business Combinations,” and SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.” SFAS 141 requires the use of the purchase method of accounting and prohibits the use of the pooling-of-interests method of accounting for business combinations initiated after June 30, 2001. SFAS 141 also required that the Company recognize acquired intangible assets apart from these transactions.goodwill if the acquired intangible assets meet certain criteria. SFAS 141 applies to all business combinations initiated after June 30, 2001, and to purchase business combinations completed on or after July 1, 2001. It also requires, upon adoption of SFAS 142, that the Company reclassify the carrying amounts of intangible assets and goodwill based on the criteria in SFAS 141.

     The Company expects recourse amounts associated withCompany’s previous business combinations were accounted for using the aforementioned salepurchase method. As of December 28, 2003 and securitization activities to be minimalDecember 29, 2002, the net carrying amount of goodwill was $224.1 million and believes it has adequate reserves to cover potential losses. The receivables sold at$210.5 million, respectively. Other intangible assets were $4.2 million and $4.4 million as of December 28, 2003 and December 29, 2002, respectively. Amortization expense during the years ended December 28, 2003, December 29, 2002 and December 30, 2001 amounted to $30.0was $0.2 million, $0.2 million and $34.0$9.8 million, respectively.

     The Company adopted the new standards of accounting for goodwill and other intangible assets beginning in the first quarter of ISC are availablefiscal 2002. In the second quarter of 2002, the Company completed the transitional goodwill impairment test required by SFAS 142. In preparing the valuations, past, present and future expectations of performance were considered. The test showed goodwill impairment in three overseas reporting units and five Americas reporting units. In all cases, the impairment primarily was attributable to actual and then-forecasted revenue and profitability for the reporting unit being lower (consistent with the industry-wide decline in carpet sales and related services) than that anticipated at the time of the acquisition of the reporting unit. The effect of this accounting change (an after-tax charge of $55.4 million, or $1.10 per share) was recorded as the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle effective the first quarter of

42


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

fiscal 2002, as required by SFAS 142. The charge had no cash effect, and, foremost to satisfyas required, was presented net of tax.

     During the claimsfourth quarter of its creditors. During February 2003, the Company terminated this agreementperformed the annual goodwill impairment test required by SFAS 142 using a methodology similar to the transitional test. No additional impairment was indicated.

The following table presents the impact SFAS 142 would have had a loss from continuing operations, net income (loss), and enteredthe respective per share amounts, if adopted in the first quarter of 2001:

               
200320022001



(In thousands, except
per share amounts)
Reported loss from continuing operations $(18,410) $(17,759) $(25,921)
 Adjustments:            
  Goodwill amortization        9,817 
  Income taxes        (1,460)
   
   
   
 
Adjusted loss from continuing operations $(18,410) $(17,759) $(17,564)
   
   
   
 
Reported net loss $(33,257) $(87,664) $(36,287)
Adjustments:            
 Goodwill amortization        9,817 
 Income taxes        (1,460)
 Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle, net of tax     55,380    
   
   
   
 
Adjusted net loss $(33,257) $(32,284) $(27,930)
   
   
   
 
Basic and diluted loss per share:            
Loss from continuing operations:            
 Reported $(0.36) $(0.36) $(0.52)
 Adjusted $(0.36) $(0.36) $(0.35)
Net loss:            
 Reported $(0.66) $(1.75) $(0.72)
 Adjusted $(0.66) $(0.64) $(0.56)

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the year ended December 28, 2003, by operating segment are as follows:

                 
BalanceBalance
December 29,Foreign CurrencyDecember 28,
2002AcquisitionsTranslation2003




(In thousands)
Modular Carpet $69,499  $  $11,651  $81,150 
Broadloom  60,113         60,113 
Services  33,006         33,006 
Fabrics Group  47,911   699   1,250   49,860 
Specialty Products            
   
   
   
   
 
Total $210,529  $699  $12,901  $224,129 
   
   
   
   
 

Taxes on Income

     The Company accounts for income taxes under an asset and liability approach that requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have

43


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

been recognized in the Company’s financial statements or tax returns. In estimating future tax consequences, the Company generally considers all expected future events other than enactments of changes in tax laws or rates. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates will be recognized as income or expense in the period that includes the enactment date.

     The Company records a valuation allowance to reduce our deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will expire before realization of the benefit or that future deductibility is not probable. The ultimate realization of the deferred tax assets depends on the ability to generate sufficient taxable income of the appropriate character in the future. This requires us to use estimates and make assumptions regarding significant future events such as the taxability of entities operating in the various taxing jurisdictions.

Revenue Recognition

     Revenue is recognized on the sale of products or services when the products are shipped or the services are performed, all significant contractual obligations have been satisfied, and the collection of the resulting receivable is reasonably assured. The Company’s delivery term typically is F.O.B. shipping point. Revenues and estimated profits on performance contracts are recognized under the percentage of completion method of accounting using the cost-to-cost methodology. Profit estimates are revised periodically based upon changes in facts. Any losses identified on contracts are recognized immediately.

     In accordance with EITF 00-10, shipping and handling fees billed to customers are classified in net sales in the consolidated statements of operations. Shipping and handling costs incurred are classified in cost of sales in the consolidated statements of operations.

Cash, Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments

     Highly liquid investments with insignificant interest rate risk and with original maturities of three months or less are classified as cash and cash equivalents. Investments with maturities greater than three months and less than one year are classified as short-term investments.

     At December 28, 2003 and December 29, 2002, checks issued against future deposits totaled approximately $1.4 million and $1.1 million, respectively. Cash payments for interest amounted to approximately $43.2 million, $35.1 million, and $42.6 million, for the years ended 2003, 2002, and 2001, respectively. Income tax payments amounted to approximately $0.2 million, $0.6 million, and $5.8 million, for the years ended 2003, 2002, and 2001, respectively.

Fair Values of Financial Instruments

     Fair values of cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments and short-term debt approximate cost due to the short period of time to maturity. Fair values of debt and swaps are based on quoted market prices or pricing models using current market rates.

Translation of Foreign Currencies

     The financial position and results of operations of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries are measured generally using local currencies as the functional currency. Assets and liabilities of these subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rate in effect at each year-end. Income and expense items are translated at average exchange rates for the year. The resulting translation adjustments are recorded in the foreign currency translation adjustment account. In the event of a substantially similar agreement with another financial institution.divestiture of a foreign subsidiary, the related foreign currency translation results are reversed from equity to income. Foreign currency exchange gains and losses are included in income.

44


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Stock-Based Compensation

     Effective January 1,As of the fiscal year ended December 28, 2003, the Company has stock-based employee compensation plans, which are described more fully in the “Shareholders’ Equity” footnote. Those plans are accounted for using the intrinsic value method under the recognition and measurement principles of Accounting Principles Board (APB) Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees”, as allowed under the provisions of SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation.” Compensation expenses related to stock option plans were not material for 2003, 2002, and 2001.

The following table illustrates the effect on net income and earnings per share if the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS 123 were applied to stock-based employee compensation:

              
Fiscal Year Ended

200320022001



(In thousands, except share data)
Net loss as reported $(33,257) $(87,664) $(36,287)
Deduct: Total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under fair value based method for all awards, net of related tax effects  (1,307)  (1,588)  (1,667)
   
   
   
 
 Pro forma net loss  (34,564)  (89,252)  (37,954)
   
   
   
 
Basic and diluted loss per share as reported $(0.66) $(1.75) $(0.72)
Basic and diluted pro forma loss per share  (0.69)  (1.78)  (0.76)

     For the purposes of the disclosures required by SFAS 123, the fair value of stock options is the estimated present value at grant date using the Black-Scholes option pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions for 2003, 2002, and 2001: Dividend yield of 0.0% in 2003, 0.0% in 2002, and 1.2% in 2001; expected volatility of 56% in 2003, 50% in 2002, and 50% in 2001; a risk-free interest rate of 4.02% in 2003, 4.51% in 2002, and 5.09% in 2001; and an expected option life of 6.5 years in 2003, 2002 and 2001.

     The weighted average fair value of options, calculated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model, granted during 2003, 2002, and 2001 thewere $1.68, $3.43, and $2.95 per share, respectively.

Derivative Financial Instruments

     The Company adopted SFAS No. 140,133, “Accounting for TransfersDerivative Instruments and ServicingHedging Activities,” as amended, effective January 1, 2001. SFAS 133 requires a company to recognize all derivatives on the balance sheet at fair value. Derivatives that are not hedges must be adjusted to fair value through income. If the derivative is a fair value hedge, changes in the fair value of Financial Assets and Extinguishmentsthe hedged assets, liabilities or firm commitments are recognized through earnings. If the derivative is a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of Liabilities —changes in the fair value of the derivative are recognized in other comprehensive income until the hedged item is recognized in earnings. The ineffective portion of a replacement of SFAS No. 125”. This statement provides accounting and reporting standards for transfers and servicing of financial assets and extinguishments of liabilities and revises the accounting standards for securitizations and transfers of financial assets and collateral.derivative’s change in fair value is immediately recognized in earnings. The adoption of SFAS 140133, as amended, did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

     In December 2003, the FASB issued a revision to SFAS No. 132, “Employers’ Disclosures about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits.” This statement does not change the measurement or recognition aspects for pensions and other postretirement benefit plans; however, it does revise employers’ disclosures to include more information about the plan assets, obligations to pay benefits and funding obligations. SFAS 132, as revised, is generally effective for financial statements with fiscal years ending after December 15, 2003. Certain additional disclosures applicable to foreign defined benefit plans are effective for fiscal years ending after June 15, 2004. The Company has adopted the required provisions of SFAS No. 132, as revised, and has

45


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

deferred adopting those additional required disclosures relating to the Company’s foreign plans. The adoption of the required provisions of SFAS 132, as revised, did not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. The adoption of the disclosures related to the Company’s foreign defined benefit plans are not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

     In May 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 150, “Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of both Liabilities and Equity.” SFAS No. 150 clarifies the definition of a liability as currently defined in FASB Concepts Statement No. 6, “Elements of Financial Statements,” as well as other planned revisions. This statement requires a financial instrument that embodies an obligation of an issuer to be classified as a liability. In addition, the statement establishes standards for the initial and subsequent measurement of these financial instruments and disclosure requirements. SFAS 150 is effective for financial instruments entered into or modified after May 31, 2003 and for all other matters, is effective at the beginning of the first interim period beginning after June 15, 2003. The adoption of SFAS 150 did not have a material effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operationsoperations.

     In April 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 149, “Amendment of Statement 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.” SFAS No. 149 amends SFAS No. 133 for decisions made by the FASB’s Derivatives Implementation Group, other FASB projects dealing with financial position.instruments, and in response to implementation issues raised in relation to the application of the definition of a derivative. This statement is generally effective for contracts entered into or modified after June 30, 2003 and for hedging relationships designated after June 30, 2003. The adoption of SFAS 149 did not have a material effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

     In January 2003, the FASB issued Interpretation (FIN)(“FIN”) No. 46, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities.”Entities” and in December 2003, a revised interpretation was issued (FIN No. 46, as revised). In general, a variable interest entity (“VIE”) is a corporation, partnership, trust, or any other legal structure used for business purposes that either does not have equity investors with voting rights or has equity investors that do not provide sufficient financial resources for the entity to support its activities. FIN 46, as revised, requires a VIE to be consolidated by a company if that company is effective immediately for all enterprises with variable interests in variable interest entitiesdesignated as the primary beneficiary. The interpretation applies to VIEs created after January 31, 2003, and for all financial statements issued after December 15, 2003 for VIEs in which an enterprise held a variable interest that it acquired before February 1, 2003. The adoption of FIN 46, doesas revised, did not applyhave a material effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

     In December 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation — Transition and Disclosure.” This statement amends SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” to qualifying special purpose entities such as ISC. These qualifying special purpose entities will continueprovide alternative methods of transition for a voluntary change to the fair value based method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation. In addition, SFAS 148 amends the disclosure requirements of SFAS 123 to require prominent disclosures in both annual and interim financial statements about the method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation and the effect of the method used on reported results. We adopted the disclosure provisions of this standard. The Company is currently assessing the fair value approach under SFAS 123 and the transitional provisions of SFAS 148.

     In November 2002, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 45, “Guarantor’s Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others”, (“FIN 45”). FIN 45 addresses the disclosures to be accountedmade by a guarantor in its interim and annual financial statements about its obligations under guarantees. The disclosure requirements in this Interpretation are effective for financial statements of interim or annual periods ending after December 15, 2002. The adoption of FIN 45 did not have a material effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

     In June 2002, the FASB issued SFAS 146, “Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities”. This Statement addresses financial accounting and reporting for costs associated with exit or disposal activities and nullifies EITF Issue No. 94-3, “Liability Recognition for Certain Employee Termination Benefits and Other Costs to Exit an Activity (including Certain Costs Incurred in a Restructuring)”. The

46


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

principal difference between this Statement and EITF 94-3 relates to the Statement’s requirements for recognition of a liability for a cost associated with an exit or disposal activity. This Statement requires that a liability for a cost associated with an exit or disposal activity be recognized when the liability is incurred, whereas under EITF 94-3, a liability was recognized at the date of an entity’s commitment to an exit plan. The Company adopted the provisions of SFAS 146 in the fourth quarter of 2002 and recorded its 2002 restructuring in accordance with such provisions.

     In October 2001, the FASB issued SFAS 140.No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets.” SFAS 144 addresses financial accounting and reporting for the impairment or disposal of long-lived assets. The provisions of this statement were effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2001. The adoption of SFAS 144 did not have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements or results of operations.

     In June 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations,” which addresses financial accounting requirements for retirement obligations associated with tangible long-lived assets. In May 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 145, “Rescission of FASB Statements 4, 44, 64, Amendment to FASB Statement No. 13, and Technical Corrections as of April 2002.” SFAS 145 amended other existing authoritative pronouncements to make various technical corrections, clarify meanings, or describe their applicability under changed conditions. SFAS 143 and 145 were effective commencing April 1, 2003 and did not have a material effect on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

RECEIVABLES

 ��   The Company has adopted credit policies and standards intended to reduce the inherent risk associated with potential increases in its concentration of credit risk due to increasing trade receivables from sales to owners and users of commercial office facilities and with specifiers such as architects, engineers and contracting firms. Management believes that credit risks are further moderated by the diversity of its end customers and geographic sales areas. The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers’ financial condition and requires collateral as deemed necessary. The Company maintains allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of customers to make required payments. If the financial condition of our customers were to deteriorate, resulting in an impairment of their ability to make payments, additional allowances may be required. As of December 29, 200228, 2003 and December 30, 2001,29, 2002, the allowance for bad debts amounted to approximately $9.8$9.2 million and $10.0$9.8 million, respectively, for all accounts receivable of the Company.

     In the second quarter of 2002, theThe Company concluded that certain assets (specifically,previously had in place an accounts receivable securitization program that provided funding from the sale of trade accounts receivable generated by certain of our operating subsidiaries. The amendment and inventory)restatement of Interface Americas Re:Source Technologies, Inc., a subsidiaryour revolving credit facility in June 2003 replaced and superseded our accounts receivable securitization program. Consequently, at the closing of the Companyamendment and restatement, the balance outstanding under the securitization facility, which produced adhesiveswas $26.2 million, was paid off with borrowings under the revolving credit facility, and certain specialty chemicals, were overstated by approximately $3.9 million. As a result,therefore that debt became reflected on the Company recorded an appropriate charge, which is included in the caption “other expense” in the Statement of Operations, in the second quarter 2002 to write down the carrying amount of those assets.Company’s balance sheet.

INVENTORIES

     Inventories are summarized as follows:

                
2002200120032002




(In thousands)(In thousands)
Finished goods $79,005 $82,656  $87,685 $79,005 
Work-in-process 13,037 13,983  14,658 13,037 
Raw materials 42,614 62,858  41,542 42,614 
 
 
  
 
 
 $134,656 $159,497  $143,885 $134,656 
 
 
  
 
 

4247


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

     Property and equipment consisted of the following:

                
2002200120032002




(In thousands)(In thousands)
Land $7,865 $11,439  $7,703 $7,865 
Buildings 120,270 132,970  138,662 120,270 
Equipment 379,263 362,816  406,491 379,263 
 
 
  
 
 
 507,398 507,225  552,856 507,398 
Accumulated depreciation (294,339) (265,308) (341,399) (294,339)
 
 
  
 
 
 $213,059 $241,917  $211,457 $213,059 
 
 
  
 
 

     The estimated cost to complete construction-in-progress for which the Company was committed at December 29, 200228, 2003 was approximately $2.0$4.2 million.

ACCRUED EXPENSES

     Accrued expenses are summarized as follows:

                
2002200120032002




(In thousands)(In thousands)
Pension $25,953 $11,061  $35,057 $25,953 
Compensation 18,715 25,278  35,812 27,622 
Interest 11,552 4,551  11,835 11,552 
Restructuring 7,385 15,636  5,683 7,385 
Environmental 4,231 9,049 
Taxes 9,303 6,360 
Other 38,307 29,057  30,414 27,271 
 
 
  
 
 
 $106,143 $94,632  $128,104 $106,143 
 
 
  
 
 

     During May 2000, the Company acquired certain assets and assumed certain liabilities of the Chatham Manufacturing division of CMI Industries, Inc. (“Chatham”). As part of the acquisition, the Company engaged environmental consultants to review potential environmental liabilities at all Chatham properties. Based on their review, the environmental consultants recommended certain environmental remedial actions, including groundwater monitoring, and estimated the costs thereof. The Company is currently taking steps to implement the recommended actions at Chatham.

     There have been two developments which have substantially reduced the estimated cost of environmental remediation associated with Chatham. First, during the quarter ended June 30, 2002, the Company assigned to the Town of Elkin, North Carolina, the Company’s right and obligation to acquire from CMI Industries the wastewater treatment facility serving the Chatham properties (although, pursuant to the assignment agreement, the Company still has certain rights and obligations concerning environmental remediation at this site). Second, in conjunction with the aforementioned assignment, the Company determined that the wastewater treatment facility site should be eligible for remediation under the State of North Carolina’s “brownfield” program, which generally requires a less stringent degree of remedial action. Subsequently, the State confirmed in writing the site’s eligibility under the brownfield program.

     As a result, and based upon the cost estimates provided by the environmental consultants, the Company now believes that the estimated range of the net present value of reasonably predictable costs of groundwater monitoring and other remedial actions at Chatham and the wastewater treatment facility is between $4.0 million and $6.3 million. As of December 30, 2001, the Company had accrued approximately $9.0 million, which at that time represented the best estimate available of the net present value of the costs of

4348


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

remedial actions discounted at 6%. In light of the developments described above, the accrual has been reduced byto $4.2 million.million as of December 28, 2003. The reduction of the accrual was recorded asin 2002 was a reduction of “other expense” in the Statement of Operations during the quarter ended June 30, 2002, as there was no goodwill associated with the Chatham acquisition.

     Actual costs related to groundwater monitoring and other remedial actions at Chatham incurred during 2003, 2002 and 2001 were approximately $0.1 million, $0.6 million and $1.5 million, respectively. Costs incurred during 2000 were insignificant. Actual costs incurred will depend upon numerous factors, including (i) the actual method and results of the remedial actions; (ii) the outcome of negotiations with regulatory authorities and other interested parties; (iii) changes in environmental laws and regulations; (iv) technological developments and advancements; and (v) the years of remedial activity required. Based on the information currently available, the Company does not expect that any unrecorded liability related to the above matters would materially affect the consolidated financial position or results of operations of the Company. Environmental accruals are routinely reviewed as events and developments warrant and are subjected to a comprehensive annual review.

BORROWINGS

Long-Term DebtRevolving Credit Facility

     Long-term debt consisted of the following:

          
20022001


(In thousands)
Revolving credit facilities        
 U.S. dollar $  $129,250 
 Japanese yen     7,545 
 British pound sterling     30,515 
 Euro     4,415 
Other     1,769 
   
   
 
Total long-term debt     173,494 
Less current maturities     (1,667)
   
   
 
  $  $171,827 
   
   
 

On August 8, 2001,January 17, 2002, the Company amended and restated its revolving credit facility. The amendment and restatement, among other things, (i) eased certain financial covenants, (ii) increased pricing on borrowings to reflect current market conditions, (iii) decreased the revolving credit limit from $300 million to $250 million, and (iv) granted first priority security interests in and liens on all of our assets and substantially all of the assets of our material domestic subsidiaries, including all of the stock of our domestic subsidiaries and up to 65% of the stock of our material first-tier foreign subsidiaries.

     On January 17, 2002, the revolving credit facility was further amended and restated to, among other things, substitutesubstituted certain lenders, changechanged certain covenants, and reducereduced the maximum borrowing amount to $100 million (subject to an asset borrowing base).million. In connection with the amendment and restatement of the facility, the Company issued the 10.375% Senior Notes discussed below. The amended facility matures May 15, 2005, subject to a possible extension of that maturity date to

     On January 17, 2007 if2002, the Company meets certain conditions relating to the repaymentalso completed a private offering of long-term debt.$175 million in 10.375% Senior Notes due 2010. Interest is charged at varying rates basedpayable semi-annually on February 1 and August 1 (interest payments began August 1, 2002). Proceeds from the issuance of these Notes were used to pay down the revolving credit facility. The Notes are guaranteed, jointly and severally, on an unsecured senior basis by certain of the Company’s abilitydomestic subsidiaries. At any time prior to meet certain performance criteria.February 1, 2005, the Company may redeem up to 35% of the aggregate principal amount of the Notes with the proceeds of one or more equity offerings at a redemption price in cash equal to 110.375% of the principal amount thereof, plus accrued interest at the redemption date. On June 17, 2002, the Company completed an exchange offer pursuant to which the Notes were exchanged for substantially similar notes registered under the Securities Act.

     In December 2002, wethe Company further amended ourits revolving credit facility. The amendment, among other things: (1) eased the interest coverage ratio covenant; (2) added a fixed charge coverage ratio covenant; (3) changed the borrowing base formula; (4) enlarged the lenders’ letters of credit subcommitment from $15 million to $20 million; and (5) increased pricing on borrowings in certain circumstances.

44     On June 18, 2003, the Company again amended and restated its revolving credit facility. Under the amended and restated facility, as under its predecessor, the maximum aggregate amount of loans and letters of credit available at any one time is $100 million. Key features of the revolving credit facility include the following:

• The amended and restated facility (the “Facility”) matures on October 1, 2007.
• The Facility includes a domestic U.S. dollar syndicated loan and letter of credit facility (the “Domestic Loan Facility”) made available to the Company and Interface Europe B.V. (a foreign subsidiary of the Company based in Europe), as co-borrowers up to the lesser of (i) $100 million, or (ii) a borrowing base equal to the sum of specified percentages of eligible accounts receivable, finished goods inventory and raw materials inventory in the United States (the percentages and eligibility requirements for the domestic borrowing base are specified in the credit facility) less certain reserves. Any advances to the Company or Interface Europe B.V. under the Domestic Loan Facility will reduce borrowing availability under the entire Facility.

49


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

• Advances to the Company and Interface Europe B.V. under the Domestic Loan Facility and advances to Interface Europe, Ltd. (a foreign subsidiary of the Company based in the UK) under the Multicurrency Loan Facility (described below) are secured by a first-priority lien on substantially all of the assets of the Company and each of its material domestic subsidiaries, which subsidiaries also guaranty the Facility.
• The Facility also includes a multicurrency syndicated loan and letter of credit facility (the “Multicurrency Loan Facility”) in British pounds and euros made available to Interface Europe, Ltd., in an amount up to the lesser of (i) the equivalent of $15 million, or (ii) a borrowing base equal to the sum of specified percentages of eligible accounts receivable and finished goods inventory of Interface Europe, Ltd. and certain of its subsidiaries (the percentages and eligibility requirements for the U.K. borrowing base are specified in the credit facility) less certain reserves. Any advances under the multicurrency loan facility will reduce the lending commitment available under the domestic loan facility on a dollar-equivalent basis.
• Advances to Interface Europe, Ltd. under the facility are secured by a first-priority lien on, security interest in, or floating or fixed charge, as applicable, on all of the interest in and to the accounts receivable, inventory, and substantially all other property of Interface Europe, Ltd. and its material subsidiaries, which subsidiaries also guarantee the Multicurrency Loan Facility.
• The Facility contains certain financial covenants (including a senior secured debt coverage ratio test and a fixed charge coverage ratio test) that become effective in the event that (i) our excess availability for domestic loans falls below $20 million (excluding a specified reserve against the domestic borrowing base), or (ii) our excess availability for U.K. loans falls below $3 million. In such event, we must comply with the financial covenants for a period commencing on the last day of the fiscal quarter immediately preceding such event (unless such event occurs on the last day of a fiscal quarter, in which case the compliance period commences on such date) and ending on the last day of the fiscal quarter immediately following the fiscal quarter in which such event occurred.

     The Company is currently in compliance under the revolving credit facility requires prepaymentand anticipates that it will remain in compliance with the covenants.

9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes

     As of December 28, 2003 and December 29, 2002, the Company had outstanding $120 million and $125 million, respectively, in 9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2005. Interest was payable semi-annually on May 15 and November 15. During 2002, the Company repurchased $5 million of 9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes for an amount that approximated their face value plus accrued interest.

     The Notes were guaranteed, jointly and severally, on an unsecured senior subordinated basis by certain of the Company’s domestic subsidiaries. The Notes became redeemable for cash after November 15, 2000 at the Company’s option, in whole or in part, initially at a redemption price equal to 104.75% of the principal amount, declining to 100% of the principal amount on November 15, 2003, plus accrued interest thereon to the date fixed for redemption. At December 28, 2003 and December 29, 2002, the estimated fair value of these notes based on then current market prices was approximately $115.2 million and $105.0 million, respectively.

     On February 4, 2004, the Company completed a private offering of $135 million in 9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014. Interest on these Notes is payable semi-annually on February 1 and August 1 beginning August 1, 2004. Proceeds from specified excessthe issuance of these Notes were used to redeem in full the Company’s previously outstanding 9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2005 and to reduce borrowings under the Company’s revolving credit facility. These Notes are guaranteed, jointly and severally, on an unsecured senior subordinated basis by certain of the Company’s domestic subsidiaries. Prior to February 1, 2007, we may redeem up to 35% of the original aggregate principal amount of the Notes at a redemption price equal to

50


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

109.5% of their principal amount, plus accrued interest, with the cash flows or proceeds from certain asset sales and maintenancekinds of certain financial ratios, and governsequity offerings. In addition, the abilityNotes will become redeemable for cash after February 1, 2009 at the Company’s option, in whole or in part, initially at a redemption price equal to 104.75% of the Companyprincipal amount, declining to among other things, encumber assets, repay debt and pay dividends. Long-term debt recorded in100% of the accompanying balance sheets approximates fair value basedprincipal amount on the borrowing rates currently availableFebruary 1, 2012, plus accrued interest thereon to the Companydate fixed for bank loans with similar terms and average maturities.redemption.

10.375% Senior Notes

     On January 17, 2002, the Company completed a private offering of $175 million in 10.375% Senior Notes due 2010. Interest is payable semi-annually on February 1st and August 1st beginning August 1st, 2002. Proceeds from the issuance of these Notes were used to pay down the revolving credit facility.

     The Notes are guaranteed, jointly and severally, on an unsecured senior basis by certain of the Company’s domestic subsidiaries. The Senior Notes are redeemable up to 35% at any time prior to February 1, 2005 with the proceeds of one or more equity offerings at a price of 110 3/8% of the principal amount. At December 29, 200228, 2003 the estimated fair value of these notes based on then current market prices was approximately $167.1$185.9 million.

7.3% Senior Notes

     The Company has outstanding $150 million in 7.3% Senior Notes due 2008. Interest is payable semi-annually on April 1 and October 1.

     The Senior Notes are unsecured, senior notes and are guaranteed, jointly and severally, by certain of the Company’s domestic subsidiaries. The Senior Notes are redeemable, in whole or in part, at the option of the Company, at any time or from time to time, at a redemption price equal to the greater of (i) 100% of the principal amount of the Notes to be redeemed or (ii) the sum of the present value of the remaining scheduled payments, discounted on a semi-annual basis at the treasury rate plus 50 basis points, plus, in the case of each of (i) and (ii) above, accrued interest to the date of redemption. At December 29, 200228, 2003 and December 30, 2001,29, 2002, the estimated fair value of these notes based on then current market prices was approximately $128.3$141.8 million and $127.5 million, respectively.

9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes

     As of December 29, 2002 and December 30, 2001, the Company had outstanding $120 million and $125 million, respectively, in 9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2005. Interest is payable semi-annually on May 15 and November 15. During 2002, the Company repurchased $5 million of 9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes for an amount that approximated their face value plus accrued interest.

     The Notes are guaranteed, jointly and severally, on an unsecured senior subordinated basis by certain of the Company’s domestic subsidiaries. The Notes became redeemable for cash after November 15, 2000 at the Company’s option, in whole or in part, initially at a redemption price equal to 104.75% of the principal amount, declining to 100% of the principal amount on November 15, 2003, plus accrued interest thereon to the date fixed for redemption. At December 29, 2002 and December 30, 2001, the estimated fair value of these notes based on then current market prices was approximately $105.0 million and $111.3$128.3 million, respectively.

Lines of Credit and Standby Letters of Credit

     Subsidiaries of the Company have an aggregate of $16.8$15.6 million of lines of credit available at interest rates ranging from 1.0% to 7.3%. No amounts were outstanding under these lines of credit as of December 29, 2002.28, 2003. Subsidiaries of the Company also have an aggregate of $14.1$13.3 million of standby letters of credit outstanding, related primarily to the debt of a subsidiary and workers compensation liabilities.

45


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

PREFERRED STOCK

     The Company is authorized to create and issue up to 5,000,000 shares of $1.00 par value Preferred Stock in one or more series and to determine the rights and preferences of each series, to the extent permitted by the Articles of Incorporation, and to fix the terms of such preferred stock without any vote or action by the shareholders. The issuance of any series of preferred stock may have an adverse effect on the rights of holders of common stock and could decrease the amount of earnings and assets available for distribution to holders of common stock.

     In addition, any issuance of preferred stock could have the effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control of the Company.

Preferred Share Purchase Rights

     The Company has previously issued one purchase right (a “Right”) in respect of each outstanding share of Common Stock. Each Right entitles the registered holder to purchase from the Company one two-hundredthtwo-

51


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

hundredth of a share (a “Unit”) of Series B Participating Cumulative Preferred Stock (the “Series B Preferred Stock”).

     The Rights may have certain anti-takeover effects. The Rights will cause substantial dilution to a person or group that acquires (without the consent of the Company’s Board of Directors) more than 15% of the outstanding shares of Common Stock or if other specified events occur without the Rights having been redeemed or in the event of an exchange of the Rights for Common Stock as permitted under the Shareholder Rights Plan.

     The dividend and liquidation rights of the Series B Preferred Stock are designed so that the value of one one-hundredth of a share of Series B Preferred Stock issuable upon exercise of each Right will approximate the same economic value as one share of Common Stock, including voting rights. The exercise price per Right is $90, subject to adjustment. Shares of Series B Preferred Stock will entitle the holder to a minimum preferential dividend of $1.00 per share, but will entitle the holder to an aggregate dividend payment of 200 times the dividend declared on each share of Common Stock. In the event of liquidation, each share of Series B Preferred Stock will be entitled to a minimum preferential liquidation payment of $1.00, plus accrued and unpaid dividends and distributions thereon, but will be entitled to an aggregate payment of 200 times the payment made per share of Common Stock. In the event of any merger, consolidation or other transaction in which Common Stock is exchanged for or changed into other stock or securities, cash or other property, each share of Series B Preferred Stock will be entitled to receive 200 times the amount received per share of Common Stock. Series B Preferred Stock is not convertible into Common Stock.

     Each share of Series B Preferred Stock will be entitled to 200 votes on all matters submitted to a vote of the shareholders of the Company, and shares of Series B Preferred Stock will generally vote together as one class with the Common Stock and any other voting capital stock of the Company on all matters submitted to a vote of the Company’s shareholders. While the Company’s Class B Common Stock remains outstanding, holders of Series B Preferred Stock will vote as a single class with the Class A Common Stockholders for election of directors.

     Further, whenever dividends on the Series B Preferred Stock are in arrears in an amount equal to six quarterly payments, the Series B Preferred Stock, together with any other shares of preferred stock then entitled to elect directors, shall have the right, as a single class, to elect one director until the default has been cured. The Rights expire on March 15, 2008 unless extended or unless the Rights are earlier redeemed or exchanged by the Company.

46


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY

Common Stock

     The Company is authorized to issue 80 million shares of $.10 par value Class A Common Stock and 40 million shares of $.10 par value Class B Common Stock. Class A and Class B Common Stock have identical voting rights except for the election or removal of directors. Holders of Class B Common Stock are entitled as a class to elect a majority of the Board of Directors. Under the terms of the Class B Common Stock, its special voting rights to elect a majority of the Board members would terminate irrevocably if the total outstanding shares of Class B Common Stock ever comprises less than ten percent of the Company’s total issued and outstanding shares of Class A and Class B Common Stock. On December 29, 2002,28, 2003, the outstanding Class B shares constituted approximately 15%14% of the total outstanding shares of Class A and Class B Common Stock. The Company’s Class A Common Stock is traded in the over-the-counter market under the symbol IFSIA and is quoted on Nasdaq. The Company’s Class B Common Stock is not publicly traded. Class B Common Stock is convertible into Class A Common Stock on a one-for-one basis. Both classes of Common Stock share in dividends available to common shareholders. Cash dividends on Common Stock were $0.00 per share for 2003, $0.045 per share for 2002 and $0.15 per share for 2001 and $0.18 per share for 2000.2001.

52


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Stock Repurchase Program

     The Company had a sharestock repurchase program, pursuant to which it was authorized to repurchase up to 4,000,000 shares of Class A Common Stock in the open market through May 19, 2002. During 2001, the Company repurchased 280,300 shares of Class A Common Stock under this program, at prices ranging from $6.02 to $9.44 per share. This is compared to the repurchase of 1,177,313 shares of Class A Common Stock at prices ranging from $3.41 to $8.94 per share during 2000. No shares were repurchased during 2002.the year 2002 or 2003.

     All treasury stock is accounted for using the cost method. During 2001, the Company retired 7,773,000 shares of treasury stock.

47


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

     The following tables show changes in common shareholders’ equity.

                                                          
ForeignUnrealizedForeignUnrealized
AdditionalMinimumCurrencyGain onAdditionalMinimumCurrencyGain on
Class AClass AClass BClass BPaid-InRetainedPensionTranslationFair ValueClass AClass AClass BClass BPaid-InRetainedPensionTranslationFair Value
SharesAmountSharesAmountCapitalEarningsLiabilityAdjustmentHedgesSharesAmountSharesAmountCapitalEarningsLiabilityAdjustmentHedges


















(In thousands)(In thousands)
Balance, at January 2, 2000 52,711 $5,271 6,314 $631 $222,373 $233,322 $ $(53,671) $ 
Net income      17,321    
Conversion of common stock (602) (60) 602 60      
Balance, at December 31, 2000 51,214 $5,121 7,103 $710 $218,261 $241,400 $ $(72,952) $ 
Net loss      (36,287)    
Conversion of Common stock 207 21 (207) (21)      
Stock issuances under employee plans 56 6 25 3 581      38 4 7 1 264     
Other issuances of common stock 33 3 162 16 787     
Other issuances of Common stock   279 28 2,610     
Retirement of treasury stock (984) (99)   (5,363)      (7,773) (777)    (21,545)    
Cash dividends paid      (9,243)          (7,628)    
Unamortized stock compensation expense related to restricted stock awards     (719)          (2,638)     
Compensation expense related to restricted stock awards     602     
Forfeitures and compensation expense related to restricted stock awards 48 5 (97) (10) 993     
Minimum pension liability adjustment       (11,061)   
Foreign currency translation adjustment        (19,281)          (14,024)  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance, at December 30, 2001 43,734 $4,374 7,085 $708 $219,490 $175,940 $(11,061) $(86,976) $ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance, at December 31, 2000 51,214 $5,121 7,103 $710 $218,261 $241,400 $ $(72,952) $ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

4853


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
                                                         
ForeignUnrealizedForeignUnrealized
AdditionalMinimumCurrencyGain onAdditionalMinimumCurrencyGain on
Class AClass AClass BClass BPaid-InRetainedPensionTranslationFair ValueClass AClass AClass BClass BPaid-InRetainedPensionTranslationFair Value
SharesAmountSharesAmountCapitalEarningsLiabilityAdjustmentHedgesSharesAmountSharesAmountCapitalEarningsLiabilityAdjustmentHedges


















(In thousands)(In thousands)
Balance, at December 31, 2000 51,214 $5,121 7,103 $710 $218,261 $241,400 $ $(72,952) $ 
Balance, at December 30, 2001 43,734 $4,374 7,085 $708 $219,490 $175,940 $(11,061) $(86,976) $ 
Net loss      (87,664)    
Conversion of Common stock (232) (24) 232 24      
Stock issuances under employee plans 219 22   1,319     
Other issuances of common stock   160 16 880     
Cash dividends paid      (2,300)    
Unamortized stock compensation expense related to restricted stock awards     (896)     
Forfeitures and compensation expense related to restricted stock awards     958     
Minimum pension liability adjustment       (14,892)   
Foreign currency translation adjustment        21,099  
Unrealized gain on Hedges         3,154 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net loss      (36,287)    
Balance, at December 29, 2002 43,721 $4,372 7,477 $748 $221,751 $85,976 $(25,953) $(65,877) $3,154 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Conversion of common stock 207 21 (207) (21)      
Stock issuances under employee plans 38 4 7 1 264     
Other issuances of common stock   279 28 2,610     
Retirement of treasury stock (7,773) (777)    (21,545)    
Cash dividends paid      (7,628)    
Unamortized stock compensation expense related to restricted stock awards     (2,638)     
Forfeitures and compensation expense related to restricted stock awards 48 5 (97) (10) 993     
Minimum pension liability adjustment       (11,061)   
Foreign currency translation adjustment        (14,024)  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance, at December 30, 2001 43,734 $4,374 7,085 $708 $219,490 $175,940 $(11,061) $(86,976) $ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

4954


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
                                                            
ForeignUnrealizedForeignUnrealized
AdditionalMinimumCurrencyGain onAdditionalMinimumCurrencyGain on
Class AClass AClass BClass BPaid-InRetainedPensionTranslationFair ValueClass AClass AClass BClass BPaid-InRetainedPensionTranslationFair Value
SharesAmountSharesAmountCapitalEarningsLiabilityAdjustmentHedgesSharesAmountSharesAmountCapitalEarningsLiabilityAdjustmentHedges


















(In thousands)(In thousands)
Balance, at December 30, 2001 43,734 $4,374 7,085 $708 $219,490 $175,940 $(11,061) $(86,976) $ 
Balance, at December 29, 2002 43,721 $4,372 7,477 $748 $221,751 $85,976 $(25,953) $(65,877) $3,154 
Net loss      (87,664)          (33,257)    
Conversion of common stock (232) (24) 232 24       199 20 (199) (20)      
Stock issuances under employee plans 219 22   1,319      55 6   235     
Other issuances of common stock   160 16 880        180 18 470     
Cash dividends paid      (2,300)    
Unamortized stock compensation expense related to restricted stock awards     (896)          (488)     
Forfeitures and compensation expense related to restricted stock awards     958      85 9 (167) (17) 1,016     
Minimum pension liability adjustment       (14,892)          (9,104)   
Foreign currency translation adjustment        21,099          38,829  
Unrealized gain on fair value hedges         3,154 
Unrealized gain on hedges         (3,154)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance, at December 29, 2002 43,721 $4,372 7,477 $748 $221,751 $85,976 $(25,953) $(65,877) $3,154 
Balance, at December 28, 2003 44,060 $4,407 7,291 $729 $222,984 $52,719 $(35,057) $(27,048) $ 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Stock Options

     The Company has an Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan (“Omnibus Plan”) under which a committee of independent Directors is authorized to grant directors and key employees, including officers, options to purchase the Company’s Common Stock. Options are exercisable for shares of Class A or Class B Common Stock at a price not less than 100% of the fair market value on the date of grant. The options generally become exercisable 20% per year over a five-year period from the date of the grant and the options generally expire ten years from the date of the grant. Initially, an aggregate of 3,600,000 shares of Common Stock not previously authorized for issuance under any plan, plus the number of shares subject to outstanding stock options granted under certain predecessor plans minus the number of shares issued on or after the effective date pursuant to the exercise of such outstanding stock options granted under predecessor plans, were available to be issued under the Omnibus Plan. In May 2001, the shareholders approved an amendment to the Omnibus Plan which

50


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

increased by 2,000,000 the number of shares of Common Stock authorized for issuance under the Omnibus Plan.

55


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

     The following tables summarize stock option activity under the Omnibus Plan and predecessor plans:

                
Number ofWeighted AverageWeighted Average
SharesExercise PriceNumber of


SharesExercise Price
Outstanding at January 2, 2000 3,606,000 $8.74 
Granted 1,642,000 4.98 
Exercised (93,000) 6.36 
Forfeited or canceled (1,256,000) 10.97 
 
 
 

Outstanding at December 31, 2000 3,899,000 $6.53  3,899,000 $6.53 
Granted 836,000 5.87  836,000 5.87 
Exercised (42,000) 6.06  (42,000) 6.06 
Forfeited or canceled (239,000) 7.27  (239,000) 7.27 
 
 
  
 
 
Outstanding at December 30, 2001 4,454,000 $6.38  4,454,000 $6.38 
Granted 358,000 5.65  358,000 5.65 
Exercised (219,000) 5.03  (219,000) 5.03 
Forfeited or canceled (433,000) 7.86  (433,000) 7.86 
 
 
  
 
 
Outstanding at December 29, 2002 4,160,000 $6.25 
Outstanding at December 29,2002 4,160,000 $6.25 
Granted 684,000 2.90 
Exercised (55,000) 4.38 
Forfeited or canceled (338,000) 6.88 
 
 
  
 
 
Outstanding at December 28, 2003 4,451,000 $5.71 
 
 
 

     As of December 29, 2002,28, 2003, the number of shares authorized for issuance under the Omnibus Plan that were not the subject of then-outstanding option grants was 1,878,000 (plus the number of shares outstanding under predecessor plans that are forfeited, terminated or otherwise expire unexercised).1,354,000.

                
Options ExercisableNumber of SharesWeighted Average Exercise PriceNumber of SharesWeighted Average Exercise Price





December 28, 2003 2,615,000 $6.33 
December 29, 2002 2,248,000 $6.69  2,248,000 $6.69 
December 30, 2001 2,049,000 $7.02  2,049,000 $7.02 
December 31, 2000 1,732,000 $7.30 
                                       
Options OutstandingOptions ExercisableOptions OutstandingOptions Exercisable




WeightedWeighted
AverageAverage
RemainingRemaining
NumberContractualWeightedNumberWeightedNumberContractualWeightedNumberWeighted
Outstanding atLifeAverageExercisable atAverageOutstanding atLifeAverageExercisable atAverage
Range of Exercise PricesDecember 29, 2002(Years)Exercise PriceDecember 29, 2002Exercise PriceDecember 28, 2003(years)Exercise PriceDecember 28, 2003Exercise Price











$ 3.69 – 6.94 2,633,000 6.73 $5.00 1,186,000 $5.14 
$ 2.71 – 6.94 3,084,000 6.52 $4.55 1,538,000 $4.90 
7.00 – 9.56 1,466,000 5.33 $8.24 1,003,000 $8.29  1,306,000 4.38 $8.20 1,017,000 $8.24 
10.06 – 11.56 61,000 4.34 $10.58 59,000 $10.60 
10.06 – 19.13 61,000 3.34 $10.58 60,000 $10.59 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 4,160,000 6.18 $6.25 2,248,000 $6.69  4,451,000 5.85 $5.71 2,615,000 $6.33 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 

     In March 2000, the FASB issued Interpretation No. 44, “Accounting for Certain Transactions involving Stock Compensation,” an interpretation of Accounting Principles Board (APB) Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees.” Interpretation No. 44 clarifies the application of APB No. 25 to the definition of an employee for purposes of applying APB No. 25, the criteria for determining whether a plan qualifies as a noncompensatory plan, the accounting consequences of various modifications to the terms of a previously fixed stock option or award and the accounting for an exchange of stock compensation awards in a business combination. This interpretation did not have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

51


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

     In December 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation — Transition and Disclosure.” SFAS 148 provides alternative methods of transition for an entity that voluntarily changes to the fair value based method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation. It also amends the disclosure provisions of SFAS 123 to require prominent disclosure about the effects of reported net income of an entity’s accounting policy decisions with respect to stock-based employee compensation. Finally, this Statement amends APB 28, “Interim Financial Reporting,” to require disclosure about those effects in interim financial information. The amendments to SFAS 123 that provide alternative methods of transition for an entity that voluntarily changes to the fair value based method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation are effective for financial statements for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2002. The amendment to SFAS 123 relating to disclosures and the amendment to APB 28 is effective for financial reports containing condensed financial statements for interim periods beginning after December 15, 2002. Management does not intend to adopt the fair value accounting provisions of SFAS 123 and currently believes that the adoption of SFAS 148 will not have a material impact on our financial statements.

Restricted Stock Awards

     During fiscal years 2003, 2002, 2001, and 20002001 restricted stock awards were granted for 180,000, 160,000, 279,498, and 161,514279,498 shares, respectively, of Class B Common Stock. These shares vest with respect to each employee afterover a nine-year period from the date of grant (seven-yearseven-year period from the date of grant for the 2002 awards),and 2003 awards, and over a nine-year period from the date of grant for awards prior to 2002, provided the individual remains in the employment of the Company as of the vesting date. Additionally, these shares (or a portion thereof) could vest upon the attainment of certain share performance criteria; in the event of a change in control of the Company; or, in the case of the 204,984 awards granted in 1997 that have neither vested or been forfeited, upon involuntary termination. Compensation expense relating to these grants was approximately $1,033,000, $958,000, and $1,051,000 during 2003, 2002, and $602,000 during 2002, 2001, and 2000, respectively. During 2003, 2002 2001 and 2000,2001, shares were issued and, as a result, unamortized

56


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

stock compensation for the value of the awards was recorded as a reduction to additional paid-in capital. During 2003, no shares vested. During 2002, 44,882 shares vested as a result of the Company meeting certain share performance criteria. Due to severance agreements offered during 2001, 46,247 shares were forfeitedAt December 28, 2003 and 50,951 shares became vested. At December 29, 2002, and December 30, 2001, stock awards for 922,5941,020,745 and 807,475922,594 shares of Class B Common Stock remained outstanding, respectively.

EARNINGS (LOSS)LOSS PER SHARE

     Basic earnings (loss)loss per share is computed by dividing net income (loss)loss by the weighted average number of shares of Class A and Class B Common Stock outstanding during each year. Shares issued during the year and shares reacquired during the year are weighted for the portion of the year that they were outstanding. Diluted earnings (loss)loss per share is computed in a manner consistent with that of basic earnings (loss)loss per share while giving effect to all potentially dilutive common shares that were outstanding during the period. During 2003, 2002 and 2001, the number of weighted average shares outstanding was approximately 50,282,000, 50,194,000 and 50,099,000, respectively. For 2003, 2002 and 2001, potentially dilutive securities (consisting of options) were not considered in the calculation of diluted loss per share, as their impact would be antidilutive.

The following is a reconciliation from basic earnings per share to diluted earnings per share for 2000:

             
WeightedIncome From
Income FromAverageContinuing
ContinuingSharesOperations
OperationsOutstandingPer Share



(In thousands, except earnings per share)
Basic $17,063   50,558  $0.34 
Effect of dilution:            
Stock options and awards      266     
   
   
   
 
Diluted $17,063   50,824  $0.34 
   
   
   
 

52


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

     In 2000, 2,461,383 stock options were excluded from the computation of diluted earnings (loss) per share due to their antidilutive effect.

RESTRUCTURING CHARGES

     In July 2002, the FASB issued SFAS No. 146, “Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities.” Generally, SFAS 146 provides that defined exit costs (including restructuring and employee termination costs) are to be recorded on an incurred basis rather than on a commitment basis as is presently required. The Company adopted the provisions of SFAS 146 in the fourth quarter of 2002, and recorded the 2002 restructuring in accordance with its provisions.

2002 Restructuring

     During 2002, the Company recorded a pre-tax restructuring charge of $23.4 million. The charge reflected: (i) the consolidation of three fabrics manufacturing facilities into other facilities; (ii) the further rationalization of the Re:Source Americas operations; (iii) a worldwide workforce reduction of approximately 206 employees; and (iv) the consolidation of certain European facilities. We also incurred additional pre-tax charges of $6.2 million during 2003 to complete the 2002 restructuring initiatives, consisting primarily of cash expenditures for further staff reductions and facilities consolidation costs.

     Specific elements of the restructuring activities, the related costs and current status of the plan are discussed below.

 
U.S.United States

     Enduring sluggishSluggish economic conditions have caused a decline in demand for fabrics, floorcovering and related services. In order to better match ourthe Company’s cost structure to the expected revenue base, the Company consolidated three fabrics manufacturing plants, closed vacated facilities and made other head-count reductions. A charge of approximately $13.2 million was recorded representing the relocation of equipment, the reduction of carrying value of certain property and equipment, product rationalization and other costs to consolidate these operations. Additionally, the Company recorded approximately $1.7 million of termination benefits associated with the facility closures and other head-count reductions. The Company also incurred additional pre-tax charges of $6.2 million during 2003 to complete the 2002 restructuring initiatives in the United States, consisting primarily of cash expenditures for further staff reductions and facilities consolidation costs.

During 2003, the Company revised its estimates related to the impairment charges incurred on certain facilities in the United States. Additionally, the Company identified additional severance and other costs related to the restructuring of its Fabrics Group segment and has reallocated its reserves to reflect its change in estimates. Such changes have been reflected in the tables presented below.

 
Europe/Australia

     The softeningsoft global economy during 2002 led management to conclude that further right-sizing of the EuropeEuropean and AustraliaAustralian operations was necessary. As a result, the Company elected to consolidate certain production and administrative facilities throughout Europe and Australia. ADuring 2002, a charge of approximately $4.6 million was recorded representing the reduction of carrying value of the related property and

57


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

equipment and other costs to consolidate these operations. Additionally, the Company recorded approximately $4.0 million of termination benefits in 2002 associated with the facility closures.

     A summary of the restructuring activities is presented below:

                 
U.S.EuropeAustraliaTotal




(In thousands)
Facilities consolidation $8,966  $4,541  $  $13,507 
Workforce reduction  1,704   3,636   315   5,655 
Product rationalization  1,301         1,301 
Other impaired assets  2,888      98   2,986 
   
   
   
   
 
  $14,859  $8,177  $413  $23,449 
   
   
   
   
 

     The restructuring charge recorded in 2002 was comprised of $10.6 million of cash expenditures for severance benefits and other costs, and $12.8 million of non-cash charges, primarily for the write-down of carrying value and disposal of certain assets. The Company expects to incur an additional pre-tax charge of approximately $1.5 million

53


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

during 2003 to complete the restructuring. This charge is expected to include approximately $0.5 million and $0.3 million of additional termination benefits in the U.S. and Europe, respectively, and approximately $0.1 million and $0.6 million of other costs to exit activities in the U.S. and Europe, respectively.

     The termination benefits of $5.7 million recorded in 2002, primarily related to severance costs, arewere a result of aggregate reductions of approximately 206 employees. The staff reductions as originally planned arewere expected to be as follows:

                 
U.S.EuropeAustraliaTotal




Manufacturing  99   10   1   110 
Selling and administrative  58   28   10   96 
   
   
   
   
 
   157   38   11   206 
   
   
   
   
 

     As a result of the restructuring, a total of 189 employees were terminated through December 29, 2002. The charge for termination benefits and other costs to exit activities incurred during 2002 was reflected as a separately stated charge against operating income. The Company believesAn additional 82 employees were terminated during the remaining provisions are adequate to complete the plan.fiscal year ended December 28, 2003.

     The following table displays the activity within the accrued restructuring liability for the period ended December 29, 2002:28, 2003:

     Termination Benefits

                      
U.S.EuropeAustraliaTotalU.S.EuropeAustraliaTotal








(In thousands)(In thousands)
Balance, at September 30, 2002 $1,704 $3,636 $315 $5,655  $1,704 $3,636 $315 $5,655 
Cash payments (1,394) (1,638) (245) (3,277) (1,394) (1,638) (245) (3,277)
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
Balance, at December 29, 2002 $310 $1,998 $70 $2,378  310 1,998 70 2,378 
Reallocation of restructuring cost 1,698   1,698 
Cash payments (310) (1,998) (70) (2,378)
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
Balance, at December 28, 2003 $1,698 $ $ $1,698 
 
 
 
 
 

58


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

     Other Costs To Exit Activities

                          
U.S.EuropeAustraliaTotalU.S.EuropeAustraliaTotal








(In thousands)(In thousands)
Balance, at September 30, 2002 $13,155 $4,541 $98 $17,794  $13,155 $4,541 $98 $17,794 
Costs incurred (12,854) (649) (98) (13,601) (12,854) (649) (98) (13,601)
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
Balance, at December 29, 2002 $301 $3,892 $ $4,193  301 3,892  4,193 
Reallocation of restructuring cost 1,059   1,059 
Costs incurred (301) (966)  (1,267)
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
Balance, at December 28, 2003 $1,059 $2,926 $ $3,985 
 
 
 
 
 

     Cash payments for other costs to exit activities were $0.8 million for 2002.

2001 Restructuring

     During 2001, the Company recorded a pre-tax restructuring charge of $65.1 million, including $10.5 million related to the discontinued operations of the U.S. raised/access flooring business. The charge reflected: (i) the withdrawal from the European broadloom market; (ii) the consolidation in the Company’sU.S. raised/access flooring operations; (iii) the further rationalization of the U.S. broadloom operations; (iv) a worldwide workforce reduction of approximately 838 employees; and (v) the consolidation of certain non-strategic Re:Source Americas operations. The Company initially recorded a charge of $62.2 million during the third quarter of 2001, and in the fourth quarter of 2001 recorded an additional $2.9 million charge related to pension benefits for terminated European employees.

     Specific elements of the restructuring activities, the related costs and current status of the plan are discussed below.

54


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
 
U.S.United States

     Economic developments had caused a decline in demand for raised/access flooring, panel fabric and certain of the Company’s other products. In order to better match the cost structure to the expected revenue base, the Company closed two raised/access flooring plants and one panel fabric plant, eliminated certain product lines, consolidated certain under-performing distribution locations and made other head-count reductions. A charge of approximately $28.8 million was recorded representing the reduction of carrying value of the related property and equipment, impairment of intangible assets and other costs to close these operations. Additionally, the Company recorded approximately $5.3 million of termination benefits associated with the facility closures and other head-count reductions.

 
Europe

     For the past several years leading up to 2001, the Company’s European broadloom operations had negative returns. The softening global economy during 2001, and the events of September 11, 2001 (which severely impacted consumers of broadloom carpet in the hospitality, leisure and airline businesses) led management to conclude that positive returns from this operation were unlikely for the near future. As a result, the Company elected to divest of this operation. The Company also elected to consolidate certain production and administrative facilities throughout Europe. A charge of approximately $19.0 million was recorded representing the reduction of carrying value of the related property and equipment, impairment of intangible assets and other costs to close or dispose of these operations. Additionally, the Company recorded approximately $12.0 million of termination benefits associated with the facility closures.

59


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

     A summary of the restructuring activities, including activities related to the discontinued U.S. raised/access flooring business, is presented below:

             
U.S.EuropeTotal



(In thousands)
Facilities consolidation $5,889  $8,685  $14,574 
Workforce reduction  5,266   12,049   17,315 
Product rationalization  15,735   1,070   16,805 
Other impaired assets  6,997   9,394   16,391 
   
   
   
 
  $33,887  $31,198  $65,085 
   
   
   
 

     These amounts include restructuring charges of approximately $10.5 million related to the discontinued operations of the U.S. raised/access flooring business.

     The restructuring charge was comprised of $24.0 million of cash expenditures for severance benefits and other costs and $41.1 million of non-cash charges, primarily for the write-down of carrying value and disposal of certain assets.

     The termination benefits of $17.3 million, primarily related to severance costs, are a result of aggregate reductions of approximately 838 employees. The staff reductions as originally planned were expected to be as follows:

             
U.S.EuropeTotal



Manufacturing  243   436   679 
Selling and administrative  62   97   159 
   
   
   
 
   305   533   838 
   
   
   
 

     As a result of the restructuring, a total of 847 employees were terminated. The charge for termination benefits and other costs to exit activities incurred during 2001 was reflected as a separately stated charge against operating income. The Company believes the remaining provisions are adequate to complete the plan.

55


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

     The following table displays the activity within the accrued restructuring liability for the periods ended December 28, 2003, December 29, 2002 and DecemberSeptember 30, 2001:

Termination Benefits
             
U.S.EuropeTotal



(In thousands)
Balance, at September 30, 2001 $5,266  $9,115  $14,381 
Additional expense     2,934   2,934 
Cash payments  (3,295)  (2,697)  (5,992)
   
   
   
 
Balance, at December 30, 2001  1,971   9,352   11,323 
Cash payments  (1,971)  (8,538)  (10,509)
   
   
   
 
Balance, at December 29, 2002     814   814 
Cash payments     (814)  (814)
   
   
   
 
Balance, at December 28, 2003 $  $  $ 
   
   
   
 

60


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
     Termination Benefits
             
U.S.EuropeTotal



(In thousands)
Balance, at September 30, 2001 $5,266  $9,115  $14,381 
Additional expense     2,934   2,934 
Cash payments  (3,295)  (2,697)  (5,992)
   
   
   
 
Balance, at December 30, 2001  1,971   9,352   11,323 
Cash payments  (1,971)  (8,538)  (10,509)
   
   
   
 
Balance, at December 29, 2002 $  $814  $814 
   
   
   
 

Other Costs To Exit Activities

             
U.S.EuropeTotal



(In thousands)
Balance, at September 30, 2001 $28,661  $19,149  $47,810 
Costs incurred  (27,462)  (13,035)  (40,497)
   
   
   
 
Balance, at December 30, 2001  1,199   6,114   7,313 
Costs incurred  (1,199)  (6,114)  (7,313)
   
   
   
 
Balance, at December 29, 2002 $  $  $ 
   
   
   
 

     Cash payments for other costs to exit activities were $7.3 million and $2.7 million for 2002 and 2001, respectively.

2000 Restructuring

     During 2000, the Company recorded a pre-tax restructuring charge of $21.0 million. The charge reflected: (i) the integration of the U.S. broadloom operations; (ii) the consolidation of certain administrative and back-office functions; (iii) the divestiture of certain non-strategic Re:Source Americas operations; and (iv) the abandonment of manufacturing equipment utilized in the production of discontinued product lines.

Specific elements of the restructuring activities, the related costs and current status of the plan are discussed below.

U.S.

     Historically, the Company had operated two manufacturing facilities to produce its Bentley and Prince Street brands of broadloom carpet. These facilities, which were located in Cartersville, Georgia, and City of Industry, California, had been operating at less than full capacity. In the first quarter of 2000, the Company decided to integrate these two facilities to reduce excess capacity. As a result, the facility in Cartersville, Georgia, was closed and the manufacturing operations were relocated and integrated into the facility in City of Industry, California. A charge of $4.1 million was recorded representing the cost of consolidating these facilities and the reduction of carrying value of the related property and equipment, inventories and other related assets. Additionally, the Company recorded approximately $4.6 million of termination benefits associated with the facility closure.

     Between 1996 and 1999 the Company created a distribution channel through the acquisition of twenty-nine service companies located throughout the U.S. Since that time two of these businesses have failed to

56


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

achieve satisfactory operating income levels. During 2000, the Company elected to divest of these under-performing operations. As a result, a charge of approximately $7.6 million was recorded representing the reduction of carrying value of the related property and equipment, impairment of intangible assets and other costs to close or dispose of these operations.

Europe

     Economic developments in Europe had necessitated an organizational re-alignment. During fiscal year 2000, the European operations were reorganized in order to adapt to these changes. As a result, certain manufacturing, selling and administrative positions were eliminated. The Company recorded approximately $3.7 million of termination benefits related to this reorganization.

A summary of the restructuring activities which were planned as of April 2, 2000 is presented below:

             
U.S.EuropeTotal



(In thousands)
Termination benefits $4,637  $3,732  $8,369 
Impairment of property, plant and equipment  1,750      1,750 
Facilities consolidation  2,358      2,358 
Divestiture of operations, including impairment of intangible assets  7,618      7,618 
   
   
   
 
  $16,363  $3,732  $20,095 
   
   
   
 

     The restructuring charge was comprised of $11.9 million of cash expenditures for severance benefits and other costs and $8.2 million of non-cash charges, primarily for the write-down of impaired assets.

The termination benefits of $8.4 million, primarily related to severance costs, resulted from aggregate expected reductions of 175 employees. The staff reductions as originally planned were expected to be as follows:

             
U.S.EuropeTotal



Manufacturing  63   21   84 
Selling and administrative  59   32   91 
   
   
   
 
   122   53   175 
   
   
   
 

     As a result of the restructuring, a total of 425 employees were terminated. There will not be any further terminations as a result of the restructuring. The charge for termination benefits and other costs to exit activities incurred during 2000 was reflected as a separately stated charge against operating income. During the fourth quarter of 2000, the Company recorded an additional charge of $0.95 million related to the terminations.

57


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

     The following table displays the activity within the accrued restructuring liability for the periods ended December 31, 2000, December 30, 2001 and December 29, 2002:

     Termination Benefits

             
U.S.EuropeTotal



(In thousands)
Balance, at April 2, 2000 $4,637  $3,732  $8,369 
Additional expense  952      952 
Cash payments  (5,463)  (3,732)  (9,195)
   
   
   
 
Balance, at December 31, 2000  126      126 
Cash payments  (126)     (126)
   
   
   
 
Balance, at December 30, 2001 and December 29, 2002 $  $  $ 
   
   
   
 

     Other Costs To Exit Activities

             
U.S.EuropeTotal



(In thousands)
Balance, at April 2, 2000 $11,726  $  $11,726 
Costs incurred  (11,239)     (11,239)
   
   
   
 
Balance, at December 31, 2000  487      487 
Costs incurred  (487)     (487)
   
   
   
 
Balance, at December 30, 2001 and December 29, 2002 $  $  $ 
   
   
   
 

     Cash payments for other costs to exit activities were $3.0 million and $0.5 million for 2000 and 2001, respectively.

TAXES ON INCOME

     Provisions for federal, foreign, and state income taxes in the consolidated statements of operations consisted of the following components:

             
            Fiscal Year Ended

Fiscal Year Ended200320022001




200220012000



(In thousands)
Current expense/(benefit):Current expense/(benefit): Current expense/(benefit): 
Federal $(16,543) $(4,864) $12,553 Federal $(2,431) $(16,543) $(4,864)
Foreign 4,750 2,489 5,805 Foreign (2,113) 4,750 2,489 
State 693 628 2,052 State 128 693 628 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 (11,100) (1,747) 20,410   (4,416) (11,100) (1,747)
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
Deferred expense/(benefit):Deferred expense/(benefit): Deferred expense/(benefit): 
Federal 5,128 (1,971) (5,458)Federal (10,913) 5,128 (1,971)
Foreign (1,560) (6,163) (1,484)Foreign 9,370 (1,560) (6,163)
State (2,373) (1,665) (1,116)State (4,256) (2,373) (1,665)
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 1,195 (9,799) (8,058)  (5,799) 1,195 (9,799)
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 $(9,905) $(11,546) $12,352   $(10,215) $(9,905) $(11,546)
 
 
 
   
 
 
 

58


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

     Income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes on income consisted of the following:

                       
Fiscal Year EndedFiscal Year Ended


200220012000200320022001






(In thousands)(In thousands)
U.S. operations $(35,913) $(24,086) $16,338  $(46,822) $(35,913) $(24,086)
Foreign operations 8,249 (13,381) 13,077  18,197 8,249 (13,381)
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 $(27,664) $(37,467) $29,415  $(28,625) $(27,664) $(37,467)
 
 
 
  
 
 
 

     Deferred income taxes for the years ended December 29, 200228, 2003 and December 30, 200129, 2002 reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for income tax purposes.

     At December 29, 2002,28, 2003, the Company had approximately $73 million in federal net operating losses expiring in 2023 and approximately $207 million in state net operating losses expiring at various times through 2023. Additionally, the Company’s foreign subsidiaries had approximately $14.6$15.7 million in net operating losses available for an unlimited carryforward period. Additionally, the Company had approximately $140 million in state net operating losses expiring at various times through 2022.

61


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

     The sources of the temporary differences and their effect on the net deferred tax asset are as follows:

                        
2002200120032002




AssetsLiabilitiesAssetsLiabilitiesAssetsLiabilitiesAssetsLiabilities








(In thousands)(In thousands)
Basis differences of property and equipment $ $17,072 $ $26,569  $ $21,195 $ $17,072 
Net operating loss carryforwards 11,553  7,946   40,529  11,553  
Deferred compensation 6,206  7,025   6,904  6,206  
Nondeductible reserves and accruals 5,868  14,868   5,548  5,868  
Other differences in basis of assets and liabilities 10,338  5,828   3,251  10,338  
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 $33,965 $17,072 $35,667 $26,569  $56,232 $21,195 $33,965 $17,072 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 

     Deferred tax assets and liabilities are included in the accompanying balance sheet as follows:

                
Fiscal Year EndedFiscal Year Ended


2002200120032002




(In thousands)(In thousands)
Deferred income taxes (current asset) $9,911 $17,640  $5,454 $9,911 
Other (non-current asset) 27,502 16,505  62,045 27,502 
Deferred income taxes (non-current liabilities) (20,520) (25,047) (32,462) (20,520)
 
 
  
 
 
 $16,893 $9,098  $35,037 $16,893 
 
 
  
 
 

59


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

     The effective tax rate on income (loss)loss from continuing operations before taxes differs from the U.S. statutory rate. The following summary reconciles taxes at the U.S. statutory rate with the effective rates:

                     
Fiscal Year EndedFiscal Year Ended


200220012000200320022001






Taxes on income (benefit) at U.S. statutory rateTaxes on income (benefit) at U.S. statutory rate (35.0)% (35.0)% 35.0%Taxes on income (benefit) at U.S. statutory rate (35.0)% (35.0)% (35.0)%
Increase in taxes resulting from:Increase in taxes resulting from: Increase in taxes resulting from: 
State income taxes, net of federal benefit (3.9) (1.8) 2.0 State income taxes, net of federal benefit (5.1) (3.9) (1.8)
Amortization of goodwill and related purchase accounting adjustments  6.1 12.7 Amortization of goodwill and related purchase accounting adjustments   6.1 
Foreign and U.S. tax effects attributable to foreign operations 1.1 (0.2) (5.5)Foreign and U.S. tax effects attributable to foreign operations 1.7 1.1 (0.2)
Other 2.0 0.1 (2.2)Other 2.7 2.0 0.1 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
Taxes on income (benefit) at effective ratesTaxes on income (benefit) at effective rates (35.8)% (30.8)% 42.0%Taxes on income (benefit) at effective rates (35.7)% (35.8)% (30.8)%
 
 
 
   
 
 
 

     Undistributed earnings of the Company’s foreign subsidiaries amounted to approximately $39$50 million at December 29, 2002.28, 2003. Those earnings are considered to be indefinitely reinvested and, accordingly, no provision for U.S. federal and state income taxes has been provided thereon. Upon distribution of those earnings in the form of dividends or otherwise, the Company would be subject to both U.S. income taxes (subject to an adjustment for foreign tax credits) and withholding taxes payable to the various foreign countries. Determination of the amount of unrecognized deferred U.S. income tax liability is not practicable because of the complexities associated with its hypothetical calculation. Withholding taxes of approximately $0.9$1.1 million would be payable upon remittance of all previously unremitted earnings at December 29, 2002.28, 2003.

DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS

     In the fourth quarter of 2002, management approved and committed to a plan to sell or otherwise create a joint venture or strategic alliance for its U.S. raised/access flooring business. Management anticipates that this transaction will take place during 2003. The Company recorded an impairment charge of $12.0 million, net of tax, during the fourth quarter of 2002 to adjust the carrying value of the assets of this business to their estimated fair values.

Additional information regarding the raised/access flooring business is as follows:

             
Fiscal Year Ended

200220012000



(In thousands)
Net sales $22,785  $45,059  $60,053 
Income (loss) on operations before taxes on income (benefit)  (4,090)  (16,325)  423 
Taxes on income (benefit)  (1,595)  (5,959)  165 
Income (loss) on operations, net of tax  (2,495)  (10,366)  258 
Impairment loss, net of tax  (12,030)      
Current assets  6,210   15,541   21,739 
Property and equipment  10,852   18,410   11,169 
Other assets  430   432   264 
Goodwill     2,635   2,771 
Current liabilities     10,190   6,080 
Long-term debt  6,500   6,500   6,500 
Other liabilities  1,427   1,427   1,427 

6062


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

the assets of this business to their estimated fair values. In the third quarter of 2003, the Company sold the U.S. raised/access flooring business and recorded a loss on disposal of $8.8 million, net of tax.

Additional information regarding the U.S. raised/access flooring business is as follows:

             
Fiscal Year Ended

200320022001



(In thousands)
Net sales $13,631  $22,785  $45,059 
Income (loss) on operations before taxes on income (benefit)  (9,126)  (4,090)  (16,325)
Taxes on income (benefit)  (3,104)  (1,595)  (5,959)
Income (loss) on operations, net of tax  (6,022)  (2,495)  (10,366)
Impairment loss, net of tax     (12,030)   
Loss on disposal, net of tax  (8,825)      
Current assets     6,210   15,541 
Property and equipment     10,852   18,410 
Other assets     430   432 
Goodwill        2,635 
Current liabilities        10,190 
Long-term debt     6,500   6,500 
Other liabilities     1,427   1,427 

HEDGING TRANSACTIONS AND DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS

     The Company has employed the use ofused derivative financial instruments for the purpose of reducing its exposure to adverse fluctuations in interest rates. While these hedging instruments wereare subject to fluctuations in value, such fluctuations wereare offset by the fluctuations in values of the underlying exposures being hedged. The Company has not held or issued derivative financial instruments for trading purposes. The Company has historically monitored the use of derivative financial instruments through the use of objective measurable systems, well-defined market and credit risk limits, and timely reports to senior management according to prescribed guidelines. The Company has established strict counter-party credit guidelines and has entered into transactions only with financial institutions of investment grade or better. As a result, the Company has historically considered the risk of counter-party default to be minimal.

     In order to benefit from the recenta decline in interest rates, during 2001 the Company entered into an agreement with a financial institution whereby the commitment to pay a fixed rate of interest on its 9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes was swapped for a commitment to pay a variable rate of interest based upon LIBOR. The notional amount of this transaction at December 30, 2001 was $125 million. During 2002, the Company amended the agreement to swap the commitment to pay the fixed rate of interest on $75 million of the Company’s 9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes and $50 million of the Company’s 10.375% Senior Notes for a commitment to pay a variable rate of interest based upon LIBOR. The objective of these transactions iswas to allow the Company to benefit from reductions in marketthe interest rates. These instruments have been designated fair value hedges for financial reporting purposes. There have been no net gains or losses as a result of ineffectiveness. As of December 29, 2002 the value of the instruments, includedThis interest rate swap agreement was unwound in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets in prepaid expensesMay 2003 and, other current assets, were approximately $3.2 million, net of tax. The value of the instrument as of December 30, 2001 was28, 2003, we did not material.have any interest rate swap agreements in place.

63


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

     The Company leases certain marketing, production and distribution facilities and equipment. At December 29, 2002,28, 2003, aggregate minimum rent commitments under operating leases with initial or remaining terms of one year or more consisted of the following:

        
Fiscal YearAmountAmount



(In thousands)(In thousands)
2003 $23,478 
2004 16,059  $26,283 
2005 12,822  20,884 
2006 10,849  17,071 
2007 10,002  14,073 
2008 10,142 
Thereafter 41,656  29,811 
 
  
 
 $114,866  $118,264 
 
  
 

     The totals above exclude minimum lease payments of $0.6 million in each of years 2003-2006,2004-2007, and $1.6$1.0 million for 20072008 and thereafter, related to the discontinued operations of the U.S. raised/access flooring business.

     Rental expense amounted to approximately $22.2$26.5 million, $24.6$29.0 million, and $23.6$33.4 million for the fiscal years ended 2003, 2002, 2001, and 2000,2001, respectively. This excludes rental expenses of approximately $0.6 million, $0.7 million and $1.1 million for 2003, 2002 and $0.7 million for 2002, 2001, and 2000, respectively, related to the discontinued operations of the U.S. raised/access flooring business.

61


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

     The Company has a 401(k) retirement investment plan (“401(k) Plan”), which is open to all otherwise eligible U.S. employees with at least six months of service. The 401(k) Plan calls for Company matching contributions on a sliding scale based on the level of the employee’s contribution. The Company may, at its discretion, make additional contributions to the Plan based on the attainment of certain performance targets by its subsidiaries. The Company’s matching contributions are funded monthly and totaled approximately $1.9 million, $2.0 million, $2.5 million, and $2.6$2.5 million for the years ended 2003, 2002, 2001, and 2000,2001, respectively. The Company’s discretionary contributions totaled $2.1 million and $3.9 million for the yearsyear ended 2001, and 2000, respectively.2001. No discretionary contributions were made in 2003 or 2002. These totals exclude $0.1$0.0 million of matching contributions for each of 2003, 2002, 2001, and 2000,2001, and $0.1 million of discretionary contributions for each of 2001,2002, and 2000,2001, respectively, related to the discontinued U.S. raised/access flooring business.

     Under the Interface, Inc. Nonqualified Savings Plan (“NSP”), the Company will provideprovides eligible employees the opportunity to enter into agreements for the deferral of a specified percentage of their compensation, as defined in the NSP. The obligations of the Company under such arrangementsagreements to pay the deferred compensation in the future in accordance with the terms of the NSP will be unsecured general obligations of the Company. Participants have no right, interest or claim in the assets of the Company, except as unsecured general creditors. The Company has established a Rabbi Trust to hold, invest and reinvest deferrals and contributions under the NSP. If a change in control of the Company occurs, as defined in the NSP, the Company will contribute an amount to the Rabbi Trust sufficient to pay the obligation owed to each participant. Deferred compensation in connection with the NSP totaled $7.3$5.9 million which was invested in cash and marketable securities at December 29, 2002.28, 2003.

     The Company has trusteed defined benefit retirement plans (“Plans”), which cover many of its European employees. The benefits are generally based on years of service and the employee’s average monthly compensation. Pension expense was $6.2 million, $2.7 million, $2.8 million, and $2.3$2.8 million for the years ended 2003, 2002, 2001, and 2000,2001, respectively. Plan assets are primarily invested in equity and fixed income securities.

     In the fourth quarter of 2002, it was determined that the Interface Europe Pension Scheme was underfunded (primarily due to the devaluation of the plan assets that were invested in equity markets) to the extent that would require a new schedule of contributions by the Company. As a result, an actuarial valuation currently is being performed to establish such a new schedule. The Company expects the valuation to be completed in May 2003, and contributions pursuant to the new schedule to commence in July 2003. The Company estimates the total contributions in 2003 (including those made pursuant to the new schedule) to be approximately $4 million.

6264


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

     The tables presented below set forth the funded status of the Company’s significant domestic and foreign defined benefit plans and required disclosures in accordance with SFAS 132.

         
         
Fiscal Year Ended

Fiscal Year Ended
20022001


20032002


(In thousands, except for
weighted average assumptions)(In thousands)
Change in benefit obligationChange in benefit obligation Change in benefit obligation 
Benefit obligation, beginning of year $119,283 $121,417 Benefit obligation, beginning of year $153,182 $119,283 
Service cost 1,577 3,714 Service cost 2,076 1,577 
Interest cost 7,419 6,866 Interest cost 8,423 7,419 
Benefits paid (6,562) (5,899)Benefits paid (5,901) (6,562)
Actuarial (gain) loss 15,571 (3,373)Actuarial (gain) loss 6,739 15,571 
Member contributions 817 1,003 Member contributions 809 817 
Currency translation adjustment 15,077 (4,445)Currency translation adjustment 22,107 15,077 
 
 
   
 
 
Benefit obligation, end of yearBenefit obligation, end of year $153,182 $119,283 Benefit obligation, end of year $187,435 $153,182 
 
 
   
 
 
Change in plan assetsChange in plan assets Change in plan assets 
Plan assets, beginning of year $105,095 $119,006 Plan assets, beginning of year $107,162 $105,095 
Actual return on assets (9,050) (7,788)Actual return on assets 12,351 (9,050)
Company contributions 4,819 3,207 Company contributions 6,115 4,819 
Member contributions 908 1,083 Member contributions 904 908 
Benefits paid (6,562) (5,899)Benefits paid (5,901) (6,562)
Currency translation adjustment 11,952 (4,514)Currency translation adjustment 16,938 11,952 
 
 
   
 
 
Plan assets, end of yearPlan assets, end of year $107,162 $105,095 Plan assets, end of year $137,569 $107,162 
 
 
   
 
 
Reconciliation to balance sheetReconciliation to balance sheet Reconciliation to balance sheet 
Funded status $(46,020) $(14,188)Funded status $(49,865) $(46,020)
Unrecognized actuarial loss 54,605 21,848 Unrecognized actuarial loss 59,935 54,605 
Unrecognized prior service cost 98 128 Unrecognized prior service cost 64 98 
Unrecognized transition adjustment 462 515 Unrecognized transition adjustment 389 462 
 
 
   
 
 
Net amount recognizedNet amount recognized $9,145 $8,303 Net amount recognized $10,523 $9,145 
 
 
   
 
 
Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheetsAmounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets 
Prepaid benefit cost $9,145 $8,303 Prepaid benefit cost $10,523 $9,145 
Accrued benefit liability (25,953) (11,061)Accrued benefit liability (35,057) (25,953)
Accumulated other comprehensive income 25,953 11,061 Accumulated other comprehensive income 35,057 25,953 
 
 
   
 
 
Net amount recognizedNet amount recognized $9,145 $8,303 Net amount recognized $10,523 $9,145 
 
 
   
 
 
Weighted average assumptions 
Discount rate 5.4% 6.0%
Expected return on plan assets 6.5% 6.7%
Rate of compensation 4.0% 4.0%
Components of net periodic benefit cost 
Service cost $1,577 $3,819 
Interest cost 7,419 6,942 
Expected return on plan assets 9,050 7,633 
Amortization of transition obligation (15,328) (15,621)
 
 
 
Net periodic benefit cost $2,718 $2,773 
 
 
 
          
Fiscal Year Ended

20032002


(In thousands)
Components of net periodic benefit cost        
 Service cost $2,076  $1,577 
 Interest cost  8,423   7,419 
 Expected return on plan assets  (6,116)  9,050 
 Amortization of transition obligation  1,866   (15,328)
   
   
 
Net periodic benefit cost $6,249  $2,718 
   
   
 

65


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
          
Fiscal Year Ended

20032002


Weighted average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost        
 Discount rate  5.1%   6.0% 
 Expected return on plan assets  6.6%   6.9% 
 Rate of compensation  4.1%   4.1% 
Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations        
 Discount rate  5.2%   5.3% 
 Rate of compensation  3.7%   4.0% 

     The Company maintains a nonqualified salary continuation plan (“SCP”) which is designed to induce selected officers of the Company to remain in the employ of the Company by providing them with retirement,

63


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

disability and death benefits in addition to those which they may receive under the Company’s other retirement plans and benefit programs. The SCP entitles participants to (i) retirement benefits upon retirement at age 65 (or early retirement at age 55) after completing at least 15 years of service with the Company (unless otherwise provided in the SCP), payable for the remainder of their lives (or, if elected by a participant, a reduced benefit is payable for the remainder of the participant’s life and any surviving spouse’s life) and in no event less than 10 years under the death benefit feature; (ii) disability benefits payable for the period of any pre-retirement total disability; and (iii) death benefits payable to the designated beneficiary of the participant for a period of up to 10 years (or, if elected by a surviving spouse that is the designated beneficiary, a reduced benefit is payable for the remainder of such surviving spouse’s life). Benefits are determined according to one of three formulas contained in the SCP, and the SCP is administered by the Compensation Committee, which has full discretion in choosing participants and the benefit formula applicable to each. The Company’s obligations under the SCP are currently unfunded (although the Company uses insurance instruments to hedge its exposure thereunder); however, the Company is required to contribute the present value of its obligations thereunder to an irrevocable grantor trust in the event of a change in control as defined in the SCP.

     The tables presented below set forth the required disclosures in accordance with SFAS 132 and amounts recognized in the consolidated financial statements related to the SCP.

          
Fiscal Year Ended

20022001


(In thousands, except for
weighted average
assumptions)
Change in benefit obligation        
 Benefit obligation, beginning of year $7,451  $9,483 
 Service cost  196   151 
 Interest cost  537   554 
 Benefits paid  (2,543)  (343)
 Actuarial (gain) loss  1,635   (2,394)
   
   
 
Benefit obligation, end of year $7,276  $7,451 
   
   
 
Weighted average assumptions        
 Discount rate  5.4%  6.0%
 Rate of compensation  4.0%  4.0%
Components of net periodic benefit cost        
 Service cost $196  $151 
 Interest cost  537   554 
 Amortization of transition obligation  219   259 
   
   
 
Net periodic benefit cost $952  $964 
   
   
 
          
Fiscal Year Ended

20032002


(In thousands)
Change in benefit obligation Benefit obligation, beginning of year $7,276  $7,451 
 Service cost  248   196 
 Interest cost  670   537 
 Benefits paid  (343)  (2,543)
 Actuarial (gain) loss  5,102   1,635 
   
   
 
Benefit obligation, end of year $12,953  $7,276 
   
   
 

66


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
          
Fiscal Year Ended

20032002


(In thousands, except for
weighted average
assumptions)
Weighted average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost        
 Discount rate  6.8%   8.0% 
 Rate of compensation  4.0%   4.0% 
Weighted average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations        
 Discount rate  6.8%   5.4% 
 Rate of compensation  4.0%   4.0% 
Components of net periodic benefit cost        
 Service cost $248  $196 
 Interest cost  670   537 
 Amortization of transition obligation  401   219 
Net periodic benefit cost $1,319  $952 

SEGMENT INFORMATION

     Effective December 28, 2003, the Company changed its method of classifying its business into segments. All prior periods have been restated to reflect this change.

The Company has two reportablecurrently classifies its businesses into the following five operating segments Floorcovering Products/Servicesfor certain reporting purposes: (1) the Modular Carpet segment, which includes our Interface, Heuga and Interior Fabrics. The Floorcovering Products/InterfaceFLOR modular carpet businesses, (2) the Broadloom segment, which includes our Bentley and Prince Street broadloom, modular carpet and area rug business, (3) the Services segment, manufactures, installswhich primarily encompasses ourRe:Source dealers that provide carpet installation and maintenance services modularin the United States, (4) the Fabrics Group segment, which includes all of our fabrics businesses worldwide, and broadloom(5) the Specialty Products segment, which includes Pandel, Inc., a producer of vinyl carpet while the Interior Fabrics segment manufactures paneltile backing and upholstery fabrics.specialty mat and foam products, and also includes our Intersept antimicrobial sales and licensing program.

     The accounting policies of the operating segments are the same as those described in Summary of Significant Accounting Policies. Segment amounts disclosed are prior to any elimination entries made in consolidation, except in the case of Net Sales, where intercompany sales have been eliminated. The chief operating decision maker evaluates performance of the segments based on operating income. Costs excluded

64


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

from this profit measure primarily consist of allocated corporate expenses, interest expense and income taxes. Corporate expenses are primarily comprised of corporate overhead expenses. Thus, operating income includes only the costs that are directly attributable to the operations of the individual segment. Assets not identifiable to an individual segment are corporate assets, which are primarily comprised of cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, intangible assets and intercompany receivables and loans (which are eliminated in consolidation).

67


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Segment Disclosures

     Summary information by segment follows:

                                 
FloorcoveringModularFabricsSpecialty
Products/ServicesInterior FabricsOtherTotalCarpetBroadloomServicesGroupProductsTotal










(In thousands)
2003
 
Net sales $468,751 $109,940 $146,416 $189,111 $9,291 $923,509 
Depreciation and amortization 13,600 2,309 2,732 11,602 105 30,348 
Operating income (loss) 42,532 (2,370) (10,300) (11,491) (61) 18,310 
Total assets 383,097 115,505 155,552 233,545 3,406 891,105 
(In thousands)
2002
  
Net sales $710,009 $199,276 $14,799 $924,084  $431,826 $114,727 $163,456 $199,276 $14,799 $924,084 
Depreciation and amortization 17,325 10,338 1,290 28,953  11,836 2,845 2,644 10,338 1,290 28,953 
Operating income (loss) 17,757 (4,478) 964 14,243  36,545 (5,917) (5,954) (9,031) (926) 16,802 
Total assets 642,605 238,473 16,094 897,172  410,019 111,279 138,799 238,473 16,094 914,664 
2001
  
Net sales $833,793 $209,905 $15,148 $1,058,846  $484,755 $170,179 $178,859 $209,905 $15,148 $1,058,846 
Depreciation and amortization 28,864 11,257 698 40,819  17,442 5,775 5,643 11,257 698 40,819 
Operating income (loss) (14,879) 2,426 11,363 (1,090) 42,797 (49,621) (2,098) 2,926 340 (5,656)
Total assets 654,649 244,559 30,882 930,090  407,211 115,767 168,689 244,559 30,882 967,108 
2000
 
Net sales $951,664 $252,732 $19,499 $1,223,895 
Depreciation and amortization 33,702 9,732 917 44,351 
Operating income 35,426 28,275 3,152 66,853 
Total assets 834,101 216,718 29,899 1,080,718 

65


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

     A reconciliation of the Company’s total segment operating income (loss), depreciation and amortization, and assets to the corresponding consolidated amounts follows:

                        
Fiscal Year EndedFiscal Year Ended


200220012000200320022001






(In thousands)(In thousands)
Depreciation and amortization
 
Depreciation and Amortization
 
Total segment depreciation and amortization $28,953 $40,819 $44,351  $30,348 $28,953 $40,819 
Corporate depreciation and amortization 6,375 5,602 5,067  6,909 6,375 5,602 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
Reported depreciation and amortization $35,328 $46,421 $49,418  $37,257 $35,328 $46,421 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
Operating income (loss)
 
Operating Income (Loss)
 
Total segment operating income (loss) $14,243 $(1,605) $66,088  $18,310 $16,802 $(5,656)
Corporate expenses and eliminations 913 515 765  (2,835) (1,646) 4,566 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
Reported operating income (loss) $15,156 $(1,090) $66,853  $15,475 $15,156 $(1,090)
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
Assets
  
Total segment assets $897,172 $930,090 $1,080,718  $891,105 $914,664 
Discontinued operations 17,492 37,018 35,943   17,492 
Corporate assets and eliminations (51,154) (12,354) (81,812) 3,169 (68,646) 
 
 
 
  
 
 
Reported total assets $863,510 $954,754 $1,034,849  $894,274 $863,510 
 
 
 
  
 
 

68


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Enterprise-wide Disclosures

     Revenue and long-lived assets related to operations in the U.S.United States and other foreign countries are as follows:

                        
Fiscal Year EndedFiscal Year Ended


200220012000200320022001






(In thousands)(In thousands)
Sales to unaffiliated customers(1)
  
United States $620,308 $706,453 $820,424  $585,506 $620,308 $706,453 
United Kingdom 154,223 180,205 204,078  169,769 154,223 180,205 
Other foreign countries 149,553 172,188 199,393  168,234 149,553 172,188 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
Net sales $924,084 $1,058,846 $1,223,895  $923,509 $924,084 $1,058,846 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
Long-lived assets(2)
  
United States $143,465 $170,069 $169,149  $137,836 $143,465 
United Kingdom 39,625 44,176 46,919  41,248 39,625 
Netherlands 15,920 10,439 12,391  15,085 15,920 
Other foreign countries 14,049 17,233 18,617  17,288 14,049 
 
 
 
  
 
 
Total long-lived assets $213,059 $241,917 $247,076  $211,457 $213,059 
 
 
 
  
 
 


(1) Revenue attributed to geographic areas is based on the location of the customer.
 
(2) Long-lived assets include tangible assets physically located in foreign countries.

66


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

QUARTERLY DATA AND SHARE INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)

     The following tables settable sets forth, for the fiscal periods indicated, selected consolidated financial data and information regarding the market price per share of the Company’s Class A Common Stock. The prices represent the reported high and low closing sale prices.

                                  
Fiscal Year Ended 2002Fiscal Year Ended 2003


First QuarterSecond QuarterThird QuarterFourth Quarter(1)First Quarter(1)Second Quarter(1)Third QuarterFourth Quarter(1)








(In thousands, except share data)(In thousands, except share data)
Net salesNet sales $226,671 $233,773 $231,315 $232,325 Net sales $210,210 $233,964 $237,094 $242,241 
Gross profitGross profit 65,593 69,321 64,649 64,611 Gross profit 55,699 64,871 65,232 67,175 
Income (loss) from continuing operations (3) 1,363 (1,782) (17,337)
Net income (loss) (55,486) 777 (2,749) (30,206)
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share 
Income (loss) from continuing operations $(0.00) $0.03 $(0.04) $(0.35)
Loss from continuing operationsLoss from continuing operations (9,042) (3,940) (2,146) (3,282)
Net lossNet loss (10,354) (5,412) (13,388) (4,103)
Basic and diluted loss per common shareBasic and diluted loss per common share 
Net income (loss) (1.11) 0.02 (0.05) (0.60)Loss from continuing operations $(0.18) $(0.08) $(0.04) $(0.06)
Net loss (0.21) (0.11) (0.27) (0.08)
Dividends per common shareDividends per common share $0.015 $0.015 $0.015 $ Dividends per common share     
Share pricesShare prices Share prices 
High $7.15 $10.05 $8.39 $4.50 High $3.95 $4.50 $6.35 $6.25 
Low 4.00 6.00 3.82 1.97 Low 2.64 2.62 4.50 5.00 

69


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
                  
Fiscal Year Ended 2002

First Quarter(2)Second QuarterThird QuarterFourth Quarter(1)




(In thousands, except share data)
Net sales $226,671  $233,773  $231,315  $232,325 
Gross profit  65,593   69,321   64,649   64,611 
Income (loss) from continuing operations  (3)  1,363   (1,782)  (17,337)
Net income (loss)  (55,486)  777   (2,749)  (30,206)
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share                
 Income (loss) from continuing operations $(0.00) $0.03  $(0.04) $(0.35)
 Net income (loss)  (1.11)  0.02   (0.05)  (0.60)
Dividends per common share $0.015  $0.015  $0.015  $ 
Share prices                
 High $7.15  $10.05  $8.39  $4.50 
 Low  4.00   6.00   3.82   1.97 


(1) During 2003, the Company recorded a restructuring charge of $6.2 million, which is included in loss from continuing operations. The amounts recorded were $2.1 million in the first quarter of 2003, $2.5 million in the second quarter of 2003 and $1.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2003. During the fourth quarter of 2002, the companyCompany recorded a restructuring charge of $23.4 million, which is included in loss from continuing operations, and an impairment write downwrite-down related to the discontinued U.S. raised/access flooring business of $12.0 million (see “Restructuring Charges” and “Discontinued Operations”).
(2) Effective the first quarter 2002, the Company recorded an after-tax charge of $55.4 million, or $1.10 per share, to recognize the effect of a change in accounting principle as required by SFAS 142.

67


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATEDSUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)
                  
Fiscal Year Ended 2001

First QuarterSecond QuarterThird QuarterFourth Quarter




(In thousands, except share data)
Net sales $289,124  $274,387  $254,980  $240,355 
Gross profit  86,959   82,215   74,788   68,564 
Income (loss) from continuing operations  4,663   2,616   (32,894)  (306)
Net income (loss)  4,430   1,272   (41,302)  (687)
 
Basic and diluted earnings (loss) per common share                
 Income (loss) from continuing operations $0.09  $0.05  $(0.69) $(0.01)
 Net income (loss)  0.09   0.03   (0.83)  (0.01)
 
Dividends per common share $0.045  $0.045  $0.045  $0.015 
 
Share prices                
 High $10 7/16  $8 1/16  $6 7/26  $6 3/16 
 Low�� 6 1/4   6   4   3 3/4 

68     The “guarantor subsidiaries,” which consist of the Company’s principal domestic subsidiaries, are guarantors of the Company’s 10.375% senior notes due 2010, its 7.3% notes due 2008, and its 9.5% senior subordinated notes due 2005. The following condensed consolidated financial information presents:

     (1) Condensed consolidating balance sheets as of December 28, 2003, December 29, 2002, and December 30, 2001 and related statements of income and cash flow for the periods ending December 28, 2003, December 29, 2002 and December 30, 2001 of (a) Interface, Inc. (the parent) (b) the guarantor subsidiaries as a group, the non-guarantor subsidiaries as a group, and (d) Interface on a consolidated basis; and

     (2) Eliminating entries necessary to consolidate Interface, Inc. with the guarantor and non-guarantor subsidiaries. The principle elimination entries eliminate inter-company balances, transactions and investments in subsidiaries.

70


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

SUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR CONDENSED CONSOLIDATINGStatement of Operations for Year Ended 2003

                      
Consolidation
Interface, Inc.&
GuarantorNonguarantor(ParentEliminationConsolidated
SubsidiariesSubsidiariesCorporation)EntriesTotals





(In thousands)
Net sales $838,289  $333,713  $  $(248,493) $923,509 
Cost of sales  690,932   228,093      (248,493)  670,532 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Gross profit on sales  147,357   105,620         252,977 
Selling, general and administrative expenses  132,433   77,499   21,374      231,306 
Restructuring charge  6,196            6,196 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Operating income (loss)  8,728   28,121   (21,374)     15,475 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Other expense (income)                    
 Interest expense, net  17,090   4,200   21,530      42,820 
 Other  5,143   4,671   (8,534)     1,280 
   
   
   
   
   
 
 Total other expense  22,233   8,871   12,996      44,100 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Income (loss) before taxes on income and equity in income of subsidiaries  (13,505)  19,250   (34,370)     (28,625)
Taxes on income (benefit)  4,440   7,654   (22,309)     (10,215)
Equity in income (loss) of subsidiaries        (21,196)  21,196    
   
   
   
   
   
 
Income (loss) from continuing operations  (17,945)  11,596   (33,257)  21,196   (18,410)
Discontinued operations, net of tax  (6,022)           (6,022)
Loss on disposal of discontinued operation, net of tax  (8,825)           (8,825)
   
   
   
   
   
 
Net income (loss) $(32,792) $11,596  $(33,257) $21,196  $(33,257)
   
   
   
   
   
 

71


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Statement of Operations for Year Ended 2002

                     
                     Consolidation
Interface, Inc.Consolidation &Interface, Inc.&
GuarantorNonguarantor(ParentEliminationConsolidatedGuarantorNonguarantor(ParentEliminationConsolidated
SubsidiariesSubsidiariesCorporation)EntriesTotalsSubsidiariesSubsidiariesCorporation)EntriesTotals










(In thousands)(In thousands)
Net salesNet sales $887,211 $321,328 $ $(284,455) $924,084 Net sales $887,211 $321,328 $ $(284,455) $924,084 
Cost of salesCost of sales 716,004 228,361  (284,455) 659,910 Cost of sales 716,004 228,361  (284,455) 659,910 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Gross profit on salesGross profit on sales 171,207 92,967   264,174 Gross profit on sales 171,207 92,967   264,174 
Selling, general and administrative expensesSelling, general and administrative expenses 136,729 66,942 21,898  225,569 Selling, general and administrative expenses 136,729 66,942 21,898  225,569 
Restructuring chargeRestructuring charge 4,107 8,590 10,752  23,449 Restructuring charge 4,107 8,590 10,752  23,449 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income (loss)Operating income (loss) 30,371 17,435 (32,650)  15,156 Operating income (loss) 30,371 17,435 (32,650)  15,156 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Other expense (income)Other expense (income) Other expense (income) 
Interest expense, net 15,488 4,917 21,617  42,022 Interest expense, net 15,488 4,917 21,617  42,022 
Other 9,132 3,209 (11,543)  798 Other 9,132 3,209 (11,543)  798 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Total other expense 24,620 8,126 10,074  42,820 Total other expense 24,620 8,126 10,074  42,820 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Income (loss) before taxes on income and equity in income of subsidiariesIncome (loss) before taxes on income and equity in income of subsidiaries 5,751 9,309 (42,724)  (27,664)Income (loss) before taxes on income and equity in income of subsidiaries 5,751 9,309 (42,724)  (27,664)
Taxes on income (benefit)Taxes on income (benefit) 1,732 4,067 (15,704)  (9,905)Taxes on income (benefit) 1,732 4,067 (15,704)  (9,905)
Equity in income (loss) of subsidiariesEquity in income (loss) of subsidiaries   (60,644) 60,644  Equity in income (loss) of subsidiaries   (60,644) 60,644  
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Income (loss) from continuing operationsIncome (loss) from continuing operations 4,019 5,242 (87,664) 60,644 (17,759)Income (loss) from continuing operations 4,019 5,242 (87,664) 60,644 (17,759)
Discontinued operationsDiscontinued operations (14,525)    (14,525)Discontinued operations (14,525)    (14,525)
Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principleCumulative effect of a change in accounting principle (33,480) (21,900)   (55,380)Cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle (33,480) (21,900)   (55,380)
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss)Net income (loss) $(43,986) $(16,658) $(87,664) $60,644 $(87,664)Net income (loss) $(43,986) $(16,658) $(87,664) $60,644 $(87,664)
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 

6972


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Statement of Operations for Year Ended 2001

                     
                     Consolidation
Interface, Inc.Consolidation &Interface, Inc.&
GuarantorNonguarantor(ParentEliminationConsolidatedGuarantorNonguarantor(ParentEliminationConsolidated
SubsidiariesSubsidiariesCorporation)EntriesTotalsSubsidiariesSubsidiariesCorporation)EntriesTotals










(In thousands)(In thousands)
Net salesNet sales $848,402 $347,513 $ $(137,069) $1,058,846 Net sales $848,402 $347,513 $ $(137,069) $1,058,846 
Cost of salesCost of sales 639,668 243,721  (137,069) 746,320 Cost of sales 639,668 243,721  (137,069) 746,320 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Gross profit on salesGross profit on sales 208,734 103,792   312,526 Gross profit on sales 208,734 103,792   312,526 
Selling, general and administrative expensesSelling, general and administrative expenses 161,424 74,209 23,406  259,039 Selling, general and administrative expenses 161,424 74,209 23,406  259,039 
Restructuring chargeRestructuring charge 23,036 31,541   54,577 Restructuring charge 23,036 31,541   54,577 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income (loss)Operating income (loss) 24,274 (1,958) (23,406)  (1,090)Operating income (loss) 24,274 (1,958) (23,406)  (1,090)
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Other expense (income)Other expense (income) Other expense (income) 
Interest expense, net 14,197 7,181 14,509  35,887 Interest expense, net 14,197 7,181 14,509  35,887 
Other (513) 2,260 (1,257)  490 Other (513) 2,260 (1,257)  490 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Total other expense 13,684 9,441 13,252  36,377 Total other expense 13,684 9,441 13,252  36,377 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes on income and equity in income of subsidiariesIncome (loss) from continuing operations before taxes on income and equity in income of subsidiaries 10,590 (11,399) (36,658)  (37,467)Income (loss) from continuing operations before taxes on income and equity in income of subsidiaries 10,590 (11,399) (36,658)  (37,467)
Taxes on income (benefit)Taxes on income (benefit) 3,135 (2,272) (12,409)  (11,546)Taxes on income (benefit) 3,135 (2,272) (12,409)  (11,546)
Equity in income (loss) of subsidiariesEquity in income (loss) of subsidiaries   (12,038) 12,038  Equity in income (loss) of subsidiaries   (12,038) 12,038  
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Income from continuing operationsIncome from continuing operations 7,455 (9,127) (36,287) 12,038 (25,921)Income from continuing operations 7,455 (9,127) (36,287) 12,038 (25,921)
Discontinued operationsDiscontinued operations (10,366)    (10,366)Discontinued operations (10,366)    (10,366)
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Net income (loss)Net income (loss) $(2,911) $(9,127) $(36,287) $12,038 $(36,287)Net income (loss) $(2,911) $(9,127) $(36,287) $12,038 $(36,287)
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 

7073


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Statement of Operations for Year Ended 2000BALANCE SHEET AS OF DECEMBER 28, 2003

                      
Interface, Inc.Consolidation &
GuarantorNonguarantor(ParentEliminationConsolidated
SubsidiariesSubsidiariesCorporation)EntriesTotals





(In thousands)
Net sales $969,399  $380,195  $  $(125,699) $1,223,895 
Cost of sales  705,281   264,865      (125,699)  844,447 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Gross profit on sales  264,118   115,330         379,448 
Selling, general and administrative expenses  182,911   87,754   20,883      291,548 
Restructuring charge  16,815   3,732   500      21,047 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Operating income (loss)  64,392   23,844   (21,383)     66,853 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Other expense (income)                    
 Interest expense, net  16,640   6,781   13,538      36,959 
 Other  (264)  743         479 
   
   
   
   
   
 
 Total other expense  16,376   7,524   13,538      37,438 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Income (loss) before taxes on income and equity in income of subsidiaries  48,016   16,320   (34,921)     29,415 
Taxes on income (benefit)  12,944   4,842   (5,434)     12,352 
Equity in income of subsidiaries        46,808   (46,808)   
   
   
   
   
   
 
Income from continuing operations  35,072   11,478   17,321   (46,808)  17,063 
Discontinued operations  258            258 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Net income $35,330  $11,478  $17,321  $(46,808) $17,321 
   
   
   
   
   
 
                       
Consolidation
Interface,&
GuarantorNonguarantorInc. (ParentEliminationConsolidated
SubsidiariesSubsidiariesCorporation)EntriesTotals





(In thousands)
Assets
Current                    
 Cash $2,626  $12,942  $1,065  $  $16,633 
 Accounts receivable  101,341   69,040   3,985      174,366 
 Inventories  93,049   50,836         143,885 
 Other  8,136   9,789   6,137      24,062 
 Assets of business held for sale               
   
   
   
   
   
 
  Total current assets  205,152   142,607   11,187      358,946 
Property and equipment, less accumulated depreciation  126,966   73,536   10,955      211,457 
Investments in subsidiaries  163,657   46,463   209,561   (419,681)   
Other  9,581   34,739   55,422      99,742 
Goodwill  133,462   89,880   787      224,129 
   
   
   
   
   
 
  $638,818  $387,225  $287,912  $(419,681) $894,274 
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current liabilities $62,129  $99,007  $29,320  $   $190,456 
Long-term debt, less current maturities        445,000      445,000 
Deferred income taxes  15,677   12,128   4,657      32,462 
Other long-term liabilities          4,165       4,165 
   
   
   
   
   
 
  Total liabilities  77,806   111,135   483,142      672,083 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Minority interests     3,458         3,458 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Shareholders’ equity                    
 Preferred stock  57,891         (57,891)   
 Common stock  94,145   102,199   5,135   (196,344)  5,135 
 Additional paid-in capital  191,411   12,525   222,984   (203,936)  222,984 
 Retained earnings  218,811   210,850   (415,432)  38,490   52,719 
 Foreign currency translation adjustment  (1,246)  (17,885)  (7,917)     (27,048)
 Minimum pension liability     (35,057)        (35,057)
   
   
   
   
   
 
Total shareholders’ equity  561,012   272,632   (195,230)  (419,681)  218,733 
   
   
   
   
   
 
  $638,818  $387,225  $287,912  $(419,681) $894,274 
   
   
   
   
   
 

7174


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Balance Sheet as of December 29, 2002

                      
                      Consolidation
Interface,Consolidation &Interface, Inc.&
GuarantorNonguarantorInc. (ParentEliminationConsolidatedGuarantorNonguarantor(ParentEliminationConsolidated
SubsidiariesSubsidiariesCorporation)EntriesTotalsSubsidiariesSubsidiariesCorporation)EntriesTotals










(In thousands)(In thousands)
AssetsAssetsAssets
CurrentCurrent Current 
Cash $3,517 $17,778 $12,839 $ $34,134 Cash $3,517 $17,778 $12,839 $ $34,134 
Accounts receivable 101,968 60,161 (24,643)  137,486 Accounts receivable 101,968 60,161 (24,643)  137,486 
Inventories 92,255 42,401   134,656 Inventories 92,255 42,401   134,656 
Other 17,786 15,404 9,763  42,953 Other 17,786 15,404 9,763  42,953 
Assets of business held for sale 17,492    17,492 Assets of business held for sale 17,492    17,492 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 Total current assets 233,018 135,744 (2,041)  366,721  Total current assets 233,018 135,744 (2,041)  366,721 
Property and equipment, less accumulated depreciationProperty and equipment, less accumulated depreciation 130,684 69,513 12,862  213,059 Property and equipment, less accumulated depreciation 130,684 69,513 12,862  213,059 
Investments in subsidiariesInvestments in subsidiaries 5,495 9,958 249,075 (264,528)  Investments in subsidiaries 5,495 9,958 249,075 (264,528)  
OtherOther 8,592 8,647 55,962  73,201 Other 8,592 8,647 55,962  73,201 
GoodwillGoodwill 134,383 75,359 787  210,529 Goodwill 134,383 75,359 787  210,529 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 $512,172 $299,221 $316,645 $(264,528) $863,510   $512,172 $299,221 $316,645 $(264,528) $863,510 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities and Shareholders’ EquityLiabilities and Shareholders’ EquityLiabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current liabilitiesCurrent liabilities $66,750 $89,792 $12,370 $ $168,912 Current liabilities $66,750 $89,792 $12,370 $ $168,912 
Long-term debt, less current maturitiesLong-term debt, less current maturities   445,000  445,000 Long-term debt, less current maturities   445,000  445,000 
Deferred income taxesDeferred income taxes 14,250 (15,037) 21,307  20,520 Deferred income taxes 14,250 (15,037) 21,307  20,520 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 Total liabilities 81,000 74,755 478,677  634,432  Total liabilities 81,000 74,755 478,677  634,432 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Minority interestsMinority interests  4,907   4,907 Minority interests  4,907   4,907 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Shareholders’ equityShareholders’ equity Shareholders’ equity 
Preferred stock 57,891   (57,891)  Preferred stock 57,891   (57,891)  
Common stock 27,805 71,472 5,120 (99,277) 5,120 Common stock 27,805 71,472 5,120 (99,277) 5,120 
Additional paid-in capital 95,143 29,511 221,751 (124,654) 221,751 Additional paid-in capital 95,143 29,511 221,751 (124,654) 221,751 
Retained earnings 251,603 199,254 (382,175) 17,294 85,976 Retained earnings 251,603 199,254 (382,175) 17,294 85,976 
Foreign currency translation adjustment (1,270) (54,725) (9,882)  (65,877)Foreign currency translation adjustment (1,270) (54,725) (9,882)  (65,877)
Minimum pension liability  (25,953)   (25,953)Minimum pension liability  (25,953)   (25,953)
Unrealized gain on fair value hedges   3,154  3,154 Unrealized gain on fair value hedges   3,154  3,154 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Total shareholders’ equityTotal shareholders’ equity 431,172 219,559 (162,032) (264,528) 224,171 Total shareholders’ equity 431,172 219,559 (162,032) (264,528) 224,171 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 $512,172 $299,221 $316,645 $(264,528) $863,510   $512,172 $299,221 $316,645 $(264,528) $863,510 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 

7275


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Balance Sheet as of December 30, 2001

                      
                      Consolidation
Interface,ConsolidationInterface, Inc.&
GuarantorNonguarantorInc. (Parent& EliminationConsolidatedGuarantorNonguarantor(ParentEliminationConsolidated
SubsidiariesSubsidiariesCorporation)EntriesTotalsSubsidiariesSubsidiariesCorporation)EntriesTotals










(In thousands)(In thousands)
AssetsAssetsAssets
CurrentCurrent Current 
Cash $5,841 $4,596 $(9,649) $ $788 Cash $5,841 $4,596 $(9,649) $ $788 
Accounts receivable 111,240 67,295 (23,591)  154,944 Accounts receivable 111,240 67,295 (23,591)  154,944 
Inventories 106,836 52,661   159,497 Inventories 106,836 52,661   159,497 
Other 12,528 25,282 10,190  48,000 Other 12,528 25,282 10,190  48,000 
Assets of business held for sale 37,018    37,018 Assets of business held for sale 37,018    37,018 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 Total current assets 273,463 149,834 (23,050)  400,247  Total current assets 273,463 149,834 (23,050)  400,247 
Property and equipment, less accumulated depreciationProperty and equipment, less accumulated depreciation 153,681 71,847 16,389  241,917 Property and equipment, less accumulated depreciation 153,681 71,847 16,389  241,917 
Investments in subsidiariesInvestments in subsidiaries 130,321 718 805,664 (936,703)  Investments in subsidiaries 130,321 718 805,664 (936,703)  
OtherOther 5,870 7,380 50,101  63,351 Other 5,870 7,380 50,101  63,351 
GoodwillGoodwill 164,276 82,994 1,969  249,239 Goodwill 164,276 82,994 1,969  249,239 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 $727,611 $312,773 $851,073 $(936,703) $954,754   $727,611 $312,773 $851,073 $(936,703) $954,754 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities and Shareholders’ EquityLiabilities and Shareholders’ EquityLiabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current liabilitiesCurrent liabilities $88,331 $77,309 $10,325 $ $175,965 Current liabilities 88,331 77,309 10,325  175,965 
Long-term debt, less current maturitiesLong-term debt, less current maturities 107 34,925 411,795  446,827 Long-term debt, less current maturities 107 34,925 411,795  446,827 
Deferred income taxesDeferred income taxes 13,580 (7,150) 18,617  25,047 Deferred income taxes 13,580 (7,150) 18,617  25,047 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 Total liabilities 102,018 105,084 440,737  647,839  Total liabilities 102,018 105,084 440,737  647,839 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Minority interestsMinority interests  4,440   4,440 Minority interests  4,440   4,440 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Shareholders’ equityShareholders’ equity Shareholders’ equity 
Preferred stock 57,891   (57,891)  Preferred stock 57,891   (57,891)  
Common stock 94,145 102,199 5,082 (196,344) 5,082 Common stock 94,145 102,199 5,082 (196,344) 5,082 
Additional paid-in capital 191,411 12,525 219,490 (203,936) 219,490 Additional paid-in capital 191,411 12,525 219,490 (203,936) 219,490 
Retained earnings 283,185 153,277 197,098 (457,620) 175,940 Retained earnings 283,185 153,277 197,098 (457,620) 175,940 
Foreign currency translation adjustment (1,039) (53,691) (11,334) (20,912) (86,976)Foreign currency translation adjustment (1,039) (53,691) (11,334) (20,912) (86,976)
Minimum pension liability  (11,061)   (11,061)Minimum pension liability  (11,061)   (11,061)
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Total shareholders’ equityTotal shareholders’ equity 625,593 203,249 410,336 (936,703) 302,475 Total shareholders’ equity 625,593 203,249 410,336 (936,703) 302,475 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 $727,611 $312,773 $851,073 $(936,703) $954,754   $727,611 $312,773 $851,073 $(936,703) $954,754 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 

73


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2000

                       
Interface, Inc.Consolidation &
GuarantorNonguarantor(ParentEliminationConsolidated
SubsidiariesSubsidiariesCorporation)EntriesTotals





(In thousands)
Assets
Current                    
 Cash $4,464  $3,953  $(561) $  $7,856 
 Accounts receivable  165,339   77,992   (50,747)     192,584 
 Inventories  127,716   62,341         190,057 
 Other  11,486   11,743   11,643      34,872 
 Assets of business held for sale  35,943            35,943 
   
   
   
   
   
 
  Total current assets  344,948   156,029   (39,665)     461,312 
Property and equipment, less accumulated depreciation  153,086   77,927   16,063      247,076 
Investments in subsidiaries  91,675   7,065   870,867   (969,607)   
Other  2,154   22,085   40,337      64,576 
Goodwill  170,137   90,692   1,056      261,885 
   
   
   
   
   
 
  $762,000  $353,798  $888,658  $(969,607) $1,034,849 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
Current liabilities $132,064  $66,584  $15,428  $  $214,076 
Long-term debt, less current maturities  159   44,141   370,750      415,050 
Deferred income taxes  16,375   3,371   8,378      28,124 
   
   
   
   
   
 
  Total liabilities  148,598   114,096   394,556      657,250 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Minority interests     5,164         5,164 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Shareholders’ equity                    
 Preferred stock  57,891         (57,891)   
 Common stock  94,144   102,199   5,808   (196,320)  5,831 
 Additional paid-in capital  191,431   12,525   217,946   (203,641)  218,261 
 Retained earnings  270,699   160,814   280,393   (470,506)  241,400 
 Foreign currency translation adjustment  (763)  (41,000)  (10,045)  (21,144)  (72,952)
 Treasury stock           (20,105)  (20,105)
   
   
   
   
   
 
Total shareholders’ equity  613,402   234,538   494,102   (969,607)  372,435 
   
   
   
   
   
 
  $762,000  $353,798  $888,658  $(969,607) $1,034,849 
   
   
   
   
   
 

7476


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Statement of Cash Flows for Year Ended 2003

                      
Consolidation
Interface, Inc.&
GuarantorNonguarantor(ParentEliminationConsolidated
SubsidiariesSubsidiariesCorporation)EntriesTotals





(In thousands)
Cash flows from operating activities $26,040  $21,809  $(56,344) $  $(8,495)
   
   
   
   
   
 
Cash flows from investing activities:                    
 Purchase of plant and equipment  (13,561)  (2,233)  (534)     (16,328)
 Other  1,347   115   3,880      5,342 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Cash used in investing activities  (12,214)  (2,118)  3,346      (10,986)
   
   
   
   
   
 
Cash flows from financing activities:                    
 Net borrowings (repayments)  (14,716)  (26,085)  40,801       
 Proceeds from issuance of common stock        241      241 
 Cash dividends paid        182      182 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Cash provided by (used in) financing activities  (14,716)  (26,085)  41,224      423 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash     1,557         1,557 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Net increase (decrease) in cash  (890)  (4,837)  (11,774)     (17,501)
Cash, at beginning of year  3,517   17,778   12,839      34,134 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Cash, at end of year $2,627  $12,941  $1,065  $  $16,633 
   
   
   
   
   
 

77


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Statement of Cash Flows for Year Ended 2002

                                          
ConsolidationConsolidation
Interface, Inc.&Interface, Inc.&
GuarantorNonguarantor(ParentEliminationConsolidatedGuarantorNonguarantor(ParentEliminationConsolidated
SubsidiariesSubsidiariesCorporation)EntriesTotalsSubsidiariesSubsidiariesCorporation)EntriesTotals










(In thousands)(In thousands)
Cash flows from operating activitiesCash flows from operating activities $46,635 $39,042 $(28,300) $ $57,377 Cash flows from operating activities $46,635 $39,042 $(28,300) $ $57,377 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Cash flows from investing activities:Cash flows from investing activities: Cash flows from investing activities: 
Purchase of plant and equipment (8,336) (5,729) (279)  (14,344)Purchase of plant and equipment (8,336) (5,729) (279)  (14,344)
Other   (397)  (397)Other   (397)  (397)
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Cash used in investing activitiesCash used in investing activities (8,336) (5,729) (676)  (14,741)Cash used in investing activities (8,336) (5,729) (676)  (14,741)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash flows from financing activities:Cash flows from financing activities: Cash flows from financing activities: 
Debt issuance costs   (5,755)  (5,755)Debt issuance costs   (5,755)  (5,755)
Net borrowings (repayments) (40,623) (21,044) 58,178  (3,489)Net borrowings (repayments) (40,623) (21,044) 58,178  (3,489)
Proceeds from issuance of common stock   1,341  1,341 Proceeds from issuance of common stock   1,341  1,341 
Cash dividends paid   (2,300)  (2,300)Cash dividends paid   (2,300)  (2,300)
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Cash provided by (used in) financing activitiesCash provided by (used in) financing activities (40,623) (21,044) 51,464  (10,203)Cash provided by (used in) financing activities (40,623) (21,044) 51,464  (10,203)
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cashEffect of exchange rate changes on cash  913   913 Effect of exchange rate changes on cash  913   913 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Net increase (decrease) in cashNet increase (decrease) in cash (2,324) 13,182 22,488  33,346 Net increase (decrease) in cash (2,324) 13,182 22,488  33,346 
Cash, at beginning of yearCash, at beginning of year 5,841 4,596 (9,649)  788 Cash, at beginning of year 5,841 4,596 (9,649)  788 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Cash, at end of yearCash, at end of year $3,517 $17,778 $12,839 $ $34,134 Cash, at end of year $3,517 $17,778 $12,839 $ $34,134 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 

7578


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Statement of Cash Flows for Year Ended 2001

                   
                   Consolidation
Interface, Inc.ConsolidationInterface, Inc.&
GuarantorNonguarantor(Parent& EliminationConsolidatedGuarantorNonguarantor(ParentEliminationConsolidated
SubsidiariesSubsidiariesCorporation)EntriesTotalsSubsidiariesSubsidiariesCorporation)EntriesTotals










(In thousands)(In thousands)
Cash flows from operating activitiesCash flows from operating activities $9,088 $28,688 $(19,474) $ $18,302 Cash flows from operating activities $9,088 $28,688 $(19,474) $ $18,302 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Cash flows from investing activities:Cash flows from investing activities: Cash flows from investing activities: 
Purchase of plant and equipment (17,192) (9,228) (3,616)  (30,036)Purchase of plant and equipment (17,192) (9,228) (3,616)  (30,036)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired (2,198)    (2,198)Acquisitions, net of cash acquired (2,198)    (2,198)
Other (6,080) (5,101) (1,266)  (12,447)Other (6,080) (5,101) (1,266)  (12,447)
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Cash used in investing activitiesCash used in investing activities (25,470) (14,329) (4,882)  (44,681)Cash used in investing activities (25,470) (14,329) (4,882)  (44,681)
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Cash flows from financing activities:Cash flows from financing activities: Cash flows from financing activities: 
Net borrowings (repayments) 17,759 (12,617) 26,116  31,258 Net borrowings (repayments) 17,759 (12,617) 26,116  31,258 
Proceeds from issuance of common stock   269  269 Proceeds from issuance of common stock   269  269 
Cash dividends paid   (7,628)  (7,628)Cash dividends paid   (7,628)  (7,628)
Repurchase of common shares   (2,217)  (2,217)Repurchase of common shares   (2,217)  (2,217)
Other   (1,272)  (1,272)Other   (1,272)  (1,272)
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Cash provided by (used in) financing activitiesCash provided by (used in) financing activities 17,759 (12,617) 15,268  20,410 Cash provided by (used in) financing activities 17,759 (12,617) 15,268  20,410 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cashEffect of exchange rate changes on cash  (1,099)   (1,099)Effect of exchange rate changes on cash  (1,099)   (1,099)
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Net increase (decrease) in cashNet increase (decrease) in cash 1,377 643 (9,088)  (7,068)Net increase (decrease) in cash 1,377 643 (9,088)  (7,068)
Cash, at beginning of yearCash, at beginning of year 4,464 3,953 (561)  7,856 Cash, at beginning of year 4,464 3,953 (561)  7,856 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Cash, at end of yearCash, at end of year $5,841 $4,596 $(9,649) $ $788 Cash, at end of year $5,841 $4,596 $(9,649) $ $788 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 

76


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS — (Continued)

Statement of Cash Flows for Year Ended 2000

                      
Interface, Inc.Consolidation &
GuarantorNonguarantor(ParentEliminationConsolidated
SubsidiariesSubsidiariesCorporation)EntriesTotals





(In thousands)
Cash flows from operating activities $50,417  $33,537  $(12,522) $  $71,432 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Cash flows from investing activities:                    
 Purchase of plant and equipment  (19,661)  (10,834)        (30,495)
 Acquisitions, net of cash acquired  (25,307)  (4,565)        (29,872)
 Other  (1,135)  (21,010)  11,269      (10,876)
   
   
   
   
   
 
Cash provided by (used in) investing activities  (46,103)  (36,409)  11,269      (71,243)
   
   
   
   
   
 
Cash flows from financing activities:                    
 Net borrowings (repayments)  (3,982)     24,282      20,300 
 Proceeds from issuance of common stock        496      496 
 Cash dividends paid        (9,243)     (9,243)
 Repurchase of common shares        (6,842)     (6,842)
   
   
   
   
   
 
Cash provided by (used in) financing activities  (3,982)     8,693      4,711 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash     413         413 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Net increase (decrease) in cash  332   (2,459)  7,440      5,313 
Cash, at beginning of year  4,132   6,412   (8,001)     2,543 
   
   
   
   
   
 
Cash, at end of year $4,464  $3,953  $(561) $  $7,856 
   
   
   
   
   
 

7779


REPORT OF INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

Board of Directors and Shareholders of Interface, Inc.

Atlanta, Georgia

     We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Interface, Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 29, 200228, 2003 and December 30, 200129, 2002 and the related consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss)loss and cash flows for each of the three fiscal years in the period ended December 29, 2002.28, 2003. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

     We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

     In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of Interface, Inc. and its subsidiaries as of December 29, 200228, 2003 and December 30, 2001,29, 2002, and the consolidated results of theirits operations and theirits cash flows for each of the three fiscal years in the period ended December 29, 200228, 2003 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

     As discussed in the Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, during 2002 the Company adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.”

 /s/ BDO SEIDMAN, LLP

Atlanta, Georgia

February 17, 200316, 2004

7880


 
ITEM 9.CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

     Not applicable.

ITEM 9A.CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

As of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report on Form 10-K, an evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our President and Chief Executive Officer and our Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-14(c) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Act”). Based on that evaluation, our President and Chief Executive Officer and our Vice President and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this Annual Report. There have been no significant changes in our internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of the last evaluation of these controls.

PART III

 
ITEM 10.DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT

     The information contained under the captioncaptions “Nomination and Election of Directors”, “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance”, and “Meetings and Committees of the Board of Directors” in our definitive Proxy Statement for our 20032004 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A not later than 120 days after the end of our 20022003 fiscal year, is incorporated herein by reference. Pursuant to Instruction 3 to Paragraph (b) of Item 401 of Regulation S-K, information relating to our executive officers is included in Item 1 of this Report.

     The Company has adopted the “Interface Code of Business Conduct and Ethics,” which applies to all employees, officers and directors of the Company, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. The Code may be viewed on the Company’s website at www.interfaceinc.com. Changes to the Code will be posted on the Company’s website. Any waiver of the Code for executive officers or directors may be made only by the Company’s Board of Directors and will be disclosed to the extent required by law or Nasdaq rules on the Company’s website.

ITEM 11.EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information contained under the caption “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance”“Executive Compensation and Related Items” in our definitive Proxy Statement for our 20032004 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A not later than 120 days after the end of our 2002 fiscal year, is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 11.     EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information contained under the caption “Executive Compensation and Related Items” in our definitive Proxy Statement for our 2003 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A not later than 120 days after the end of our 2002 fiscal year, is incorporated herein by reference.

 
ITEM 12.SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

     The information contained under the captioncaptions “Principal Shareholders and Management Stock Ownership” and “Equity Compensation Plan Information” in our definitive Proxy Statement for our 20032004 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A not later than 120 days after the end of our 2002 fiscal year, is incorporated herein by reference.

     The information contained under the caption “Equity Compensation Plan Information” in our definitive Proxy Statement for our 2003 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A not later than 120 days after the end of our 2002 fiscal year, is incorporated herein by reference.

     For purposes of determining the aggregate market value of our voting and non-voting stock held by non-affiliates, shares held of record by our directors and executive officers have been excluded. The exclusion of such shares is not intended to, and shall not, constitute a determination as to which persons or entities may be “affiliates” as that term is defined under federal securities laws.

81


ITEM 13.ITEM 13.     CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS

     The information contained under the caption “Executive Compensation and Related Items — Certain Relationships and Related Transactions” in our definitive Proxy Statement for our 20032004 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A not later than 120 days after the end of our 20022003 fiscal year, is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 14.PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

The information contained under the caption “Information Concerning the Company’s Accountants” in our definitive Proxy Statement for our 2004 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Regulation 14A not later than 120 days after the end of our 2003 fiscal year, is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 14.     CONTROLS AND PROCEDURESPART IV

     Within the 90-day period prior to filing this report, an evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our President and Chief Executive Officer and our Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure

79


controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-14(c) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Based on that evaluation, our President and Chief Executive Officer and our Vice President and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the date of that evaluation. There have been no significant changes in our internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of the last evaluation of these controls.
 
ITEM 15.EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES, AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

(a) 1. Financial Statements

     The following Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes thereto of Interface, Inc. and subsidiaries and related Report of Independent Certified Public Accountants are contained in Item 8 of this Report:

     Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) — years ended December 28, 2003, December 29, 2002 and December 30, 2001 and December 31, 2000

     Consolidated Balance Sheets — December 29, 200228, 2003 and December 30, 200129, 2002

     Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows — years ended December 28, 2003, December 29, 2002 and December 30, 2001 and December 31, 2000

     Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

     Report of Independent Certified Public Accountants

     2. Financial Statement Schedule

     The following Consolidated Financial Statement Schedule of Interface, Inc. and subsidiaries and related Report of Independent Certified Public Accountants are included as part of this Report (see pages 85-86)89-90):

     Report of Independent Certified Public Accountants

     Schedule II — Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves

     3. Exhibits

     The following exhibits are included as part of this Report:

Exhibit
NumberDescription of Exhibit


3.1Restated Articles of Incorporation (included as Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended July 5, 1998 (the “1998 Second Quarter 10-Q”), previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).
3.2Bylaws, as amended and restated (included as Exhibit 3.2 to the Company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 1, 2001, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).
4.1See Exhibits 3.1 and 3.2 for provisions in the Company’s Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws defining the rights of holders of Common Stock of the Company.
4.2Rights Agreement between the Company and Wachovia Bank, N.A., dated as of March 4, 1998, with an effective date of March 16, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.1A to the Company’s registration statement on Form 8-A/A dated March 12, 1998, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).

80


Exhibit
NumberDescription of Exhibit


4.3Indenture governing the Company’s 9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2005, dated as of November 15, 1995, among the Company, certain U.S. subsidiaries of the Company, as Guarantors, and First Union National Bank of Georgia, as Trustee (the “1995 Indenture”) (included as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s registration statement on Form S-4, File No. 33-65201, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Supplement No. 1 to the 1995 Indenture, dated as of December 27, 1996 (included as Exhibit 4.2(b) to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 1996, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Supplement No. 2 to the 1995 Indenture, dated as of December 31, 2002.
4.4Form of Indenture governing the Company’s 7.3% Senior Notes due 2008, among the Company, certain U.S. subsidiaries of the Company, as Guarantors, and First Union National Bank, as Trustee (the “1998 Indenture”) (included as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s registration statement on Form S-3/A, File No. 333-46611, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Supplement No. 1 to the 1998 Indenture, dated as of December 31, 2002.
4.5Indenture governing the Company’s 10.375% Senior Notes due 2010, among the Company, certain U.S. subsidiaries of the Company, as Guarantors, and First Union National Bank, as Trustee (the “2002 Indenture”) (included as Exhibit 4.5 to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 30, 2001 (the “2001 10-K”), previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Supplemental Indenture related to the 2002 Indenture, dated as of December 31, 2002.
10.1Salary Continuation Plan, dated May 7, 1982 (included as Exhibit 10.20 to the Company’s registration statement on Form S-1, File No. 2-82188, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
10.2Form of Salary Continuation Agreement (included as Exhibit 10.27 to the Company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 5, 1998, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Form of Amendment to Salary Continuation Agreement (included as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 3, 1999 (the “1998 10-K”), previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
10.3Form of Salary Continuation Agreement, dated as of October 1, 2002 (as used for Daniel T. Hendrix, Raymond S. Willoch, John R. Wells and Brian L. DeMoura) (included as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 29, 2002 (the “2002 Third Quarter 10-Q”), previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
10.4Salary Continuation Agreement, dated as of October 1, 2002, between the Company and Ray C. Anderson (included as Exhibit 10.3 to the 2002 Third Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
10.5Interface, Inc. Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan (included as Exhibit 10.6 to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 1996, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and First Amendment thereto (included as Exhibit 10.34 to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2000 (the “2000 10-K”), previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
10.6Interface, Inc. Nonqualified Savings Plan (as amended and restated effective January 1, 2002) (included as Exhibit 10.4 to the 2001 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*

81


Exhibit
NumberDescription of Exhibit


10.7Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of January 17, 2002, among the Company (and certain direct and indirect subsidiaries), the lenders listed therein, First Union National Bank, SunTrust Bank and Citicorp North America, Inc. (included as Exhibit 10.6 to the 2001 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); First Amendment to Credit Agreement and Letter of Credit Agreement (with corrected guarantor signature page), dated as of December 12, 2002, among the Company, the lenders listed therein, Wachovia Bank, National Association, SunTrust Bank and Citicorp North America, Inc.
10.8Employment Agreement of Ray C. Anderson dated April 1, 1997 (included as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 29, 1997 (the “1997 Second Quarter 10-Q”), previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment thereto dated January 6, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 5, 1998 (the “1998 First Quarter 10-Q”), previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Second Amendment thereto dated January 14, 1999 (the form of which is included as Exhibit 10.20 to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 1, 2000 (the “1999 10-K”), previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Third Amendment thereto dated May 7, 1999 (included as Exhibit 10.6 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Fourth Amendment thereto dated July 24, 2001 (included as Exhibit 10.4 to the 2001 Third Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
10.9Change in Control Agreement of Ray C. Anderson dated April 1, 1997 (included as Exhibit 10.2 to the 1997 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment thereto dated January 6, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.2 to the 1998 First Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Second Amendment thereto dated January 14, 1999 (the form of which is included as Exhibit 10.21 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Third Amendment thereto dated May 7, 1999 (included as Exhibit 10.7 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Fourth Amendment thereto dated July 24, 2001 (included as Exhibit 10.5 to the 2001 Third Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
10.10Employment Agreement of Brian L. DeMoura dated April 1, 1997 (included as Exhibit 10.5 to the 1997 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment thereto dated January 6, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.5 to the 1998 First Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Second Amendment thereto dated January 14, 1999 (the form of which is included as Exhibit 10.20 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
10.11Change in Control Agreement of Brian L. DeMoura dated April 1, 1997 (included as Exhibit 10.6 to the 1997 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment thereto dated January 6, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.6 to the 1998 First Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Second Amendment thereto dated January 14, 1999 (the form of which is included as Exhibit 10.21 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
       
Exhibit
NumberDescription of Exhibit


 3.1  Restated Articles of Incorporation (included as Exhibit 3.1 to the Company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended July 5, 1998 (the “1998 Second Quarter 10-Q”), previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).
 3.2  Bylaws, as amended and restated (included as Exhibit 3.2 to the Company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 1, 2001, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).
 4.1  See Exhibits 3.1 and 3.2 for provisions in the Company’s Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws defining the rights of holders of Common Stock of the Company.

82


Exhibit
NumberDescription of Exhibit


10.12Employment Agreement of Daniel T. Hendrix dated April 1, 1997 (included as Exhibit 10.7 to the 1997 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment thereto dated January 6, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.7 to the 1998 First Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Second Amendment thereto dated January 14, 1999 (the form of which is included as Exhibit 10.20 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Third Amendment thereto dated January 31, 2003.*
10.13Change in Control Agreement of Daniel T. Hendrix dated April 1, 1997 (included as Exhibit 10.8 to the 1997 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment thereto dated January 6, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.8 to the 1998 First Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Second Amendment thereto dated January 14, 1999 (the form of which is included as Exhibit 10.21 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
10.14Employment Agreement of Raymond S. Willoch dated April 1, 1997 (included as Exhibit 10.11 to the 1997 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment thereto dated January 6, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.11 to the 1998 First Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Second Amendment thereto dated January 14, 1999 (the form of which is included as Exhibit 10.20 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Third Amendment thereto dated January 31, 2003.*
10.15Change in Control Agreement of Raymond S. Willoch dated April 1, 1997 (included as Exhibit 10.12 to the 1997 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment thereto dated January 6, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.12 to the 1998 First Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Second Amendment thereto dated January 14, 1999 (the form of which is included as Exhibit 10.21 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
10.16Employment Agreement of John R. Wells dated April 1, 1997 (included as Exhibit 10.23 to the 1997 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment thereto dated January 6, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.23 to the 1998 First Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Second Amendment thereto dated January 14, 1999 (the form of which is included as Exhibit 10.20 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
10.17Change in Control Agreement of John R. Wells dated April 1, 1997 (included as Exhibit 10.24 to the 1997 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment thereto dated January 6, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.24 to the 1998 First Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Second Amendment thereto dated January 14, 1999 (the form of which is included as Exhibit 10.21 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
10.18Form of Second Amendment to Employment Agreement, dated January 14, 1999 (amending Exhibits 10.6, 10.8, 10.10, 10.12, 10.16 and 10.18 to the 1999 10-K and included as Exhibit 10.20 to such report, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
10.19Form of Second Amendment to Change in Control Agreement, dated January 14, 1999 (amending Exhibits 10.7, 10.9, 10.11, 10.13, 10.17 and 10.19 to the 1999 10-K and included as Exhibit 10.21 to such report, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
       
Exhibit
NumberDescription of Exhibit


 4.2  Rights Agreement between the Company and Wachovia Bank, N.A., dated as of March 4, 1998, with an effective date of March 16, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.1A to the Company’s registration statement on Form 8-A/A dated March 12, 1998, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).
 4.3  Indenture governing the Company’s 9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2005, dated as of November 15, 1995, among the Company, certain U.S. subsidiaries of the Company, as Guarantors, and First Union National Bank of Georgia, as Trustee (the “1995 Indenture”) (included as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s registration statement on Form S-4, File No. 33-65201, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Supplement No. 1 to the 1995 Indenture, dated as of December 27, 1996 (included as Exhibit 4.2(b) to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 1996, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Supplement No. 2 to the 1995 Indenture, dated as of December 31, 2002 (included as Exhibit 4.3 to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 2002 (the “2002 10-K”) previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Supplement No. 3 to the 1995 Indenture, dated as of June 18, 2003 (included as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 29, 2003 (the “2003 Second Quarter 10-Q”) previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).
 4.4  Form of Indenture governing the Company’s 7.3% Senior Notes due 2008, among the Company, certain U.S. subsidiaries of the Company, as Guarantors, and First Union National Bank, as Trustee (the “1998 Indenture”) (included as Exhibit 4.1 to the Company’s registration statement on Form S-3/A, File No. 333-46611, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Supplement No. 1 to the 1998 Indenture, dated as of December 31, 2002 (included as Exhibit 4.4 to the 2002 10-K previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Supplement No. 2 to the 1998 Indenture, dated as of June 18, 2003 (included as Exhibit 4.2 to the 2003 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).
 4.5  Indenture governing the Company’s 10.375% Senior Notes due 2010, among the Company, certain U.S. subsidiaries of the Company, as Guarantors, and First Union National Bank, as Trustee (the “2002 Indenture”) (included as Exhibit 4.5 to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 30, 2001 (the “2001 10-K”), previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Supplemental Indenture related to the 2002 Indenture, dated as of December 31, 2002 (included as Exhibit 4.5 to the 2002 10-K previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference; and Second Supplemental Indenture related to the 2002 Indenture, dated as of June 18, 2003 (included as Exhibit 4.3 to the 2003 Second Quarter 10-Q previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).
 4.6  Indenture governing the Company’s 9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014, dated as of February 4, 2004, among the Company, certain subsidiaries of the Company, as guarantors, and SunTrust Bank, as Trustee.
 4.7  Registration Rights Agreement related to the Company’s 9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014, dated as of February 4, 2004, among the Company, certain subsidiaries of the Company, as guarantors, and Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC, Citigroup Global Markets Inc. and Fleet Securities, Inc.
 10.1  Salary Continuation Plan, dated May 7, 1982 (included as Exhibit 10.20 to the Company’s registration statement onForm S-1, File No. 2-82188, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*

83


Exhibit
NumberDescription of Exhibit


10.20Split Dollar Agreement, dated May 29, 1998, between the Company, Ray C. Anderson and Mary Anne Anderson Lanier, as Trustee of the Ray C. Anderson Family Trust (included as Exhibit 10.32 to the 1998 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
10.21Split Dollar Insurance Agreement, dated effective as of February 21, 1997, between the Company and Daniel T. Hendrix (included as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended October 4, 1998, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
10.22Interface, Inc. Key Employee Stock Option Plan (1993) (included as Exhibit 10.7 to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 3, 1993, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment No. 1 thereto (included as Exhibit 10.7 to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 2, 1994, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Amendment No. 2 thereto (included as Exhibit 10.5 to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1995, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
10.23Interface, Inc. Offshore Stock Option Plan (included as Exhibit 10.15 to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 1, 1989, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Amendment No. 1 thereto (included as Exhibit 10.11 to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 1991, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
10.24Receivables Transfer Agreement, dated as of February 12, 2003, among Interface Fabrics Group Marketing, Inc., Interface Teknit, Inc., Interface TekSolutions, LLC, Pandel, Inc., Interface Americas, Inc. and Interface, Inc.
10.25Receivables Sale Agreement, dated as of February 12, 2003, between Interface, Inc. and Interface Securitization Corporation.
10.26Loan Agreement, dated as of February 12, 2003, among Interface Securitization Corporation, Interface, Inc., Three Pillars Funding Corporation and SunTrust Capital Markets, Inc.
21Subsidiaries of the Company.
23Consent of BDO Seidman, LLP.
99.1Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350.
99.2Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350.
       
Exhibit
NumberDescription of Exhibit


 10.2  Form of Salary Continuation Agreement, dated as of October 1, 2002 (as used for Daniel T. Hendrix, Raymond S. Willoch, John R. Wells and Michael D. Bertolucci) (included as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 29, 2002 (the “2002 Third Quarter 10-Q”), previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
 10.3  Salary Continuation Agreement, dated as of October 1, 2002, between the Company and Ray C. Anderson (included as Exhibit 10.3 to the 2002 Third Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
 10.4  Interface, Inc. Omnibus Stock Incentive Plan (included as Exhibit 10.6 to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 1996, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference; and First Amendment thereto (included as Exhibit 10.34 to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2000 (the “2000 10-K”), previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
 10.5  Interface, Inc. Executive Bonus Plan (included as Exhibit 10.1 to the to the Company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended July 4, 1999, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
 10.6  Interface, Inc. Nonqualified Savings Plan (as amended and restated effective January 1, 2002) (included as Exhibit 10.4 to the 2001 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); First Amendment thereto, dated as of December 20, 2002 (included as Exhibit 10.2 to the 2003 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Second Amendment thereto, dated as of December 30, 2002 (included as Exhibit 10.3 to the 2003 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Third Amendment thereto, dated as of May 8, 2003.*
 10.7  Fourth Amendment to Interface, Inc. Nonqualified Savings Plan, dated as of December 31, 2003.*
 10.8  Fourth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of January 17, 2002, among the Company (and certain direct and indirect subsidiaries), the lenders listed therein, First Union National Bank, SunTrust Bank and Citicorp North America, Inc. (included as Exhibit 10.6 to the 2001 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); First Amendment to Credit Agreement and Letter of Credit Agreement (with corrected guarantor signature page), dated as of December 12, 2002, among the Company, the lenders listed therein, Wachovia Bank, National Association, SunTrust Bank and Citicorp North America, Inc. (included as Exhibit 10.7 to the 2002 10-K previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
 10.9  Fifth Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of June 17, 2003, among the Company (and certain direct and indirect subsidiaries), the lenders listed therein, Wachovia Bank, National Association, Fleet Capital Corporation and General Electric Capital Corporation (included as Exhibit 99.1 to the Company’s report on Form 8-K dated June 18, 2003, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).

84


       
Exhibit
NumberDescription of Exhibit


 10.10  Employment Agreement of Ray C. Anderson dated April 1, 1997 (included as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 29, 1997 (the “1997 Second Quarter 10-Q”), previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment thereto dated January 6, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended April 5, 1998 (the “1998 First Quarter 10-Q”), previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Second Amendment thereto dated January 14, 1999 (the form of which is included as Exhibit 10.20 to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 1, 2000 (the “1999 10-K”), previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Third Amendment thereto dated May 7, 1999 (included as Exhibit 10.6 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Fourth Amendment thereto dated July 24, 2001 (included as Exhibit 10.4 to the 2001 Third Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
 10.11  Change in Control Agreement of Ray C. Anderson dated April 1, 1997 (included as Exhibit 10.2 to the 1997 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment thereto dated January 6, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.2 to the 1998 First Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Second Amendment thereto dated January 14, 1999 (the form of which is included as Exhibit 10.21 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Third Amendment thereto dated May 7, 1999 (included as Exhibit 10.7 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Fourth Amendment thereto dated July 24, 2001 (included as Exhibit 10.5 to the 2001 Third Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
 10.12  Employment Agreement of Michael D. Bertolucci dated April 1, 1997 (included as Exhibit 10.25 to the 1997 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment thereto dated January 6, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.25 to the 1998 First Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Second Amendment thereto dated January 14, 1999 (the form of which is included as Exhibit 10.20 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
 10.13  Change in Control Agreement of Michael D. Bertolucci dated April 1, 1997 (included as Exhibit 10.26 to the 1997 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment thereto dated January 6, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.26 to the 1998 First Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Second Amendment thereto dated January 14, 1999 (the form of which is included as Exhibit 10.21 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
 10.14  Employment Agreement of Daniel T. Hendrix dated April 1, 1997 (included as Exhibit 10.7 to the 1997 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment thereto dated January 6, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.7 to the 1998 First Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Second Amendment thereto dated January 14, 1999 (the form of which is included as Exhibit 10.20 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Third Amendment thereto dated January 31, 2003 (included as Exhibit 10.12 to the 2002 10-K previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*

85


       
Exhibit
NumberDescription of Exhibit


 10.15  Change in Control Agreement of Daniel T. Hendrix dated April 1, 1997 (included as Exhibit 10.8 to the 1997 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment thereto dated January 6, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.8 to the 1998 First Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Second Amendment thereto dated January 14, 1999 (the form of which is included as Exhibit 10.21 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
 10.16  Employment Agreement of Raymond S. Willoch dated April 1, 1997 (included as Exhibit 10.11 to the 1997 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment thereto dated January 6, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.11 to the 1998 First Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Second Amendment thereto dated January 14, 1999 (the form of which is included as Exhibit 10.20 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Third Amendment thereto dated January 31, 2003 (included as Exhibit 10.14 to the 2002 10-K previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
 10.17  Change in Control Agreement of Raymond S. Willoch dated April 1, 1997 (included as Exhibit 10.12 to the 1997 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment thereto dated January 6, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.12 to the 1998 First Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Second Amendment thereto dated January 14, 1999 (the form of which is included as Exhibit 10.21 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
 10.18  Employment Agreement of John R. Wells dated April 1, 1997 (included as Exhibit 10.23 to the 1997 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment thereto dated January 6, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.23 to the 1998 First Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Second Amendment thereto dated January 14, 1999 (the form of which is included as Exhibit 10.20 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Third Amendment thereto dated January 31, 2003 (included as Exhibit 10.4 to the 2003 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
 10.19  Change in Control Agreement of John R. Wells dated April 1, 1997 (included as Exhibit 10.24 to the 1997 Second Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment thereto dated January 6, 1998 (included as Exhibit 10.24 to the 1998 First Quarter 10-Q, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Second Amendment thereto dated January 14, 1999 (the form of which is included as Exhibit 10.21 to the 1999 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
 10.20  Form of Second Amendment to Employment Agreement, dated January 14, 1999 (amending Exhibits 10.6, 10.8, 10.10, 10.12, 10.16 and 10.18 to the 1999 10-K and included as Exhibit 10.20 to such report, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
 10.21  Form of Second Amendment to Change in Control Agreement, dated January 14, 1999 (amending Exhibits 10.7, 10.9, 10.11, 10.13, 10.17 and 10.19 to the 1999 10-K and included as Exhibit 10.21 to such report, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
 10.22  Split Dollar Agreement, dated May 29, 1998, between the Company, Ray C. Anderson and Mary Anne Anderson Lanier, as Trustee of the Ray C. Anderson Family Trust (included as Exhibit 10.32 to the 1998 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*

86


       
Exhibit
NumberDescription of Exhibit


 10.23  Split Dollar Insurance Agreement, dated effective as of February 21, 1997, between the Company and Daniel T. Hendrix (included as Exhibit 10.2 to the Company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended October 4, 1998, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
 10.24  Employment Agreement of Christopher J. Richard dated July 30, 2003 (included as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 28, 2003, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated by reference herein).*
 10.25  Interface, Inc. Key Employee Stock Option Plan (1993) (included as Exhibit 10.7 to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 3, 1993, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); Amendment No. 1 thereto (included as Exhibit 10.7 to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 2, 1994, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Amendment No. 2 thereto (included as Exhibit 10.5 to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1995, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
 10.26  Interface, Inc. Offshore Stock Option Plan (included as Exhibit 10.15 to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 1, 1989, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference); and Amendment No. 1 thereto (included as Exhibit 10.11 to the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 29, 1991, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).*
 10.27  Receivables Transfer Agreement, dated as of February 12, 2003, among Interface Fabrics Group Marketing, Inc., Interface Teknit, Inc., Interface TekSolutions, LLC, Pandel, Inc., Interface Americas, Inc. and Interface, Inc. (included as Exhibit 10.24 to the 2002 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).
 10.28  Receivables Sale Agreement, dated as of February 12, 2003, between Interface, Inc. and Interface Securitization Corporation (included as Exhibit 10.25 to the 2002 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).
 10.29  Loan Agreement, dated as of February 12, 2003, among Interface Securitization Corporation, Interface, Inc., Three Pillars Funding Corporation and SunTrust Capital Markets, Inc. (included as Exhibit 10.26 to the 2002 10-K, previously filed with the Commission and incorporated herein by reference).
 21   Subsidiaries of the Company.
 23   Consent of BDO Seidman, LLP.
 24   Power of Attorney (see signature page of this Report)
 31.1  Certification of Chief Executive Officer with respect to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2003.
 31.2  Certification of Chief Financial Officer with respect to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2003.
 32.1  Certification Pursuant to Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of United States Code by Chief Executive Officer with respect to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2003.
 32.2  Certification Pursuant to Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of United States Code by Chief Financial Officer with respect to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2003.


Management contract or compensatory plan or agreement required to be filed pursuant to Item 14(c) of this Report.

87


(b) Reports on Form 8-K

     The following reports on Form 8-K were filed or furnished by the Company during the fourth quarter of the fiscal year covered by this Report:

       
Date Filed or
FurnishedItems ReportedFinancial Statements FileFiled



November 21, 2002October 23, 2003 CertificationsPress Release of Quarterly Report on Form 10-QNone
December 3, 2002ExtensionInterface, Inc., dated October 22, 2003, reporting Interface, Inc.’s financial results for the third quarter of waiver with respect to revolving credit facilityNone
December 17, 2002Amendment of revolving credit facility2003  None 

8488


REPORT OF INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

Interface, Inc.

Atlanta, Georgia

     The audits referred to in our report dated February 17, 200316, 2004 relating to the consolidated financial statements of Interface, Inc. and subsidiaries,, which is contained in Item 8 of this Form 10-K, included the audit of Financial Statement Schedule II (Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves) set forth in the Form 10-K. The Financial Statement Schedule is the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Financial Statement Schedule based upon our audits.

     In our opinion, such Financial Statement Schedule presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

 /s/ BDO SEIDMAN, LLP

Atlanta, Georgia

February 17, 200316, 2004

8589


INTERFACE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

SCHEDULE II — VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS AND RESERVES

                                          
Column BColumn AColumn BColumn CColumn DColumn E
Column ACharged toColumn CColumn DColumn ECharged to
Balance, atCosts andCharged toDeductionsBalance, atBalance, atCosts andCharged toDeductionsBalance, at
Beginning of YearExpenses (A)Other Accounts(Describe) (B)End of YearBeginning of YearExpenses (A)Other Accounts(Describe) (B)End of Year










(In thousands)(In thousands)
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts:Allowance for Doubtful Accounts: Allowance for Doubtful Accounts: 
Year Ended: Year Ended: 
December 28, 2003December 28, 2003 $9,814 2,929 $ $3,560 $9,183 
December 29, 2002December 29, 2002 $11,041 $3,511 $ $4,738 $9,814 December 29, 2002 11,041 3,511  4,738 9,814 
December 30, 2001December 30, 2001 8,651 5,774  3,384 11,041 December 30, 2001 8,651 5,774  3,384 11,041 
December 31, 2000 8,797 5,909  6,045 8,651 


(A)Includes changes in foreign currency exchange rates.

(B)Write off of bad debt.

                                          
Column BColumn AColumn BColumn CColumn DColumn E
Column ACharged toColumn CColumn DColumn ECharged to
Balance, atCosts andCharged toDeductionsBalance, atBalance, atCosts andCharged toDeductionsBalance, at
Beginning of YearExpenses (A)Other Accounts(Describe) (C)End of YearBeginning of YearExpenses (A)Other Accounts (B)(Describe) (C)End of Year










(In thousands)(In thousands)
Restructuring reserve:Restructuring reserve: Restructuring reserve: 
Year ended: Year ended: 
December 28, 2003December 28, 2003 $7,385 $ $2,757 $4,459 $5,683 
December 29, 2002December 29, 2002 $15,636 $10,665 $ $18,916 $7,385 December 29, 2002 15,636 10,665  18,916 7,385 
December 30, 2001December 30, 2001 613 21,005  5,982 15,636 December 30, 2001 613 21,005  5,982 15,636 
December 31, 2000 466 12,690  12,543 613 


(A)Includes changes in foreign currency exchange rates.

(B)Includes a reallocation of reserves based on changes in the Company’s estimates.
(C)Cash payments.

     (All other Schedules for which provision is made in the applicable accounting requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission are omitted because they are either not applicable or the required information is shown in the Company’s Consolidated Financial Statements or the Notes thereto.)

8690


SIGNATURES

     Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 INTERFACE, INC.

 By: /s/ DANIEL T. HENDRIX
 
 Daniel T. Hendrix
 President and Chief Executive Officer

Date: March 26, 2003

8, 2004

POWER OF ATTORNEY

     KNOW ALL MENPERSONS BY THESE PRESENTS, that each person whose signature appears below constitutes and appoints Daniel T. Hendrix as attorney-in-fact, with power of substitution, for him or her in any and all capacities, to sign any amendments to this Report on Form 10-K, and to file the same, with exhibits thereto, and other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorney-in-fact may do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this Report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

       
SignatureCapacityDate



 
/s/ RAY C. ANDERSON

Ray C. Anderson
 Chairman of the Board March 26, 20038, 2004
 
/s/ DANIEL T. HENDRIX

Daniel T. Hendrix
 President, Chief Executive Officer and Director (Principal Executive Officer) March 26, 20038, 2004
 
/s/ PATRICK C. LYNCH

Patrick C. Lynch
 Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial and Accounting Officer) March 26, 20038, 2004
/s/ EDWARD C. CALLAWAY

Edward C. Callaway
DirectorMarch 8, 2004
 
/s/ DIANNE DILLON-RIDGLEY

Dianne Dillon-Ridgley
 Director March 26, 20038, 2004
 
/s/ CARL I. GABLE

Carl I. Gable
 Director March 26, 20038, 2004
 
/s/ JUNE M. HENTON

June M. Henton
 Director March 26, 20038, 2004

8791


       
SignatureCapacityDate



 
/s/ CHRISTOPHER G. KENNEDY

Christopher G. Kennedy
 Director March 26, 20038, 2004
 
/s/ J. SMITH LANIER, II

J. Smith Lanier, II
 Director March 26, 20038, 2004
 
/s/ JAMES B. MILLER, JR.

James B. Miller, Jr.
 Director March 26, 20038, 2004
 
/s/ THOMAS R. OLIVER

Thomas R. Oliver
 Director March 26, 2003
/s/ LEONARD G. SAULTER

Leonard G. Saulter
DirectorMarch 26, 20038, 2004
 
/s/ CLARINUS C.TH. VAN ANDEL

Clarinus C.Th. van Andel
 Director March 26, 20038, 2004

88


CERTIFICATIONS

I, Daniel T. Hendrix, certify that:

     1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Interface, Inc.;

     2. Based on my knowledge, this annual report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this annual report;

     3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this annual report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this annual report;

     4. The registrant’s other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and have:

     (a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this annual report is being prepared;
     (b) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this annual report (the “Evaluation Date”); and
     (c) Presented in this annual report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;

     5. The registrant’s other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

     (a) All significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal controls which could adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data and have identified for the registrant’s auditors any material weaknesses in internal controls; and
     (b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal controls; and

     6. The registrant’s other certifying officers and I have indicated in this annual report whether there were significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

By: /s/ DANIEL T. HENDRIX

Daniel T. Hendrix
President and Chief Executive Officer

Date: March 26, 2003

89


I, Patrick C. Lynch, certify that:

     1. I have reviewed this annual report on Form 10-K of Interface, Inc.;

     2. Based on my knowledge, this annual report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this annual report;

     3. Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this annual report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this annual report;

     4. The registrant’s other certifying officers and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-14 and 15d-14) for the registrant and have:

     (a) Designed such disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this annual report is being prepared;
     (b) Evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures as of a date within 90 days prior to the filing date of this annual report (the “Evaluation Date”); and
     (c) Presented in this annual report our conclusions about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures based on our evaluation as of the Evaluation Date;

     5. The registrant’s other certifying officers and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):

     (a) All significant deficiencies in the design or operation of internal controls which could adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial data and have identified for the registrant’s auditors any material weaknesses in internal controls; and
     (b) Any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal controls; and

     6. The registrant’s other certifying officers and I have indicated in this annual report whether there were significant changes in internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls subsequent to the date of our most recent evaluation, including any corrective actions with regard to significant deficiencies and material weaknesses.

/s/ PATRICK C. LYNCH

Patrick C. Lynch
Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Date: March 26, 2003

9092


EXHIBIT INDEX

Exhibit
NumberDescription of Exhibit


4.3Supplement No. 2 to the 1995 Indenture, dated as of December 31, 2002
4.4Supplement No. 1 to the 1998 Indenture, dated as of December 31, 2002
4.5Supplemental Indenture related to the 2002 Indenture, dated as of December 31, 2002
10.7First Amendment to Credit Agreement and Letter of Credit Agreement (with corrected guarantor signature page), dated as of December 12, 2002, among the Company, the lenders listed therein, Wachovia Bank, National Association, SunTrust Bank and Citicorp North America, Inc.
10.12Third Amendment to Employment Agreement of Daniel T. Hendrix, dated as of January 31, 2003.*
10.14Third Amendment to Employment Agreement of Raymond S. Willoch, dated as of January 31, 2003.*
10.24Receivables Transfer Agreement, dated as of February 12, 2003, among Interface Fabrics Group Marketing, Inc., Interface Teknit, Inc., Interface TekSolutions, LLC, Pandel, Inc., Interface Americas, Inc. and Interface, Inc.
10.25Receivables Sale Agreement, dated as of February 12, 2003, between Interface, Inc. and Interface Securitization Corporation.
10.26Loan Agreement, dated as of February 12, 2003, among Interface Securitization Corporation, Interface, Inc., Three Pillars Funding Corporation and SunTrust Capital Markets, Inc.
21Subsidiaries of the Company.
23Consent of BDO Seidman, LLP.
99.1Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350.
99.2Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350.
     
Exhibit
NumberDescription of Exhibit


 4.6 Indenture governing the Company’s 9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014, dated as of February 4, 2004, among the Company, certain subsidiaries of the Company, as guarantors, and SunTrust Bank as Trustee.
 4.7 Registration Rights Agreement related to the Company’s 9.5% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014, dated as of February 4, 2004, among the Company, certain subsidiaries of the Company, as guarantors, and Wachovia Capital Markets, LLC, Citigroup Global Markets Inc. and Fleet Securities, Inc.
 10.6 Third Amendment to Interface, Inc. Nonqualified Savings Plan, dated as of May 8, 2003.
 10.7 Fourth Amendment to Interface, Inc. Nonqualified Savings Plan, dated as of December 31, 2003.
 21  Subsidiaries of the Company.
 23  Consent of BDO Seidman, LLP.
 24  Power of Attorney
 31.1 Certification of Chief Executive Officer with respect to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2003.
 31.2 Certification of Chief Financial Officer with respect to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2003.
 32.1 Certification Pursuant to Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of United States Code by Chief Executive Officer with respect to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2003.
 32.2 Certification Pursuant to Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of United States Code by Chief Financial Officer with respect to the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 28, 2003.