Table of Contents

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM 10-K

(Mark One)

[ x ] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE

SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended August 31, 2010

2011

or

[    ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)

OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934.

For the transition period fromto

Commission File Number 0-22496

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

OREGON 93-0341923
(State of Incorporation) (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)


3200 NW Yeon Ave.,

Portland, OR

 97210
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (503) 224-9900

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

Class A Common Stock, $1$1.00 par value The NASDAQ Global Select Market
(Title of Each Class) (Name of each Exchange on which registered)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.

Yes [ x ]    No [    ]

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.

Yes [    ]    No [ x ]

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 [ x ]    No [    ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files) Yes [ x ]    No [    ]

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.405) 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. [ ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (check one)

Large Accelerated Filer [ x ] Accelerated Filer [    ]
Non-Accelerated Filer [    ] Smaller Reporting company [    ]

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).

Yes [    ]    No [ x ]

The aggregate market value of the registrant’s votingoutstanding common stock outstanding held by non-affiliates on February 28, 20102011 was $1,012,089,697.

$1,504,015,968.

The Registrantregistrant had 22,699,65724,183,138 shares of Class A common stock, par value of $1.00 per share, and 4,720,7603,048,522 shares of Class B common stock, par value of $1.00 per share, outstanding as of October 12, 2010.

2011.

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Portions of the registrant’s definitive Proxy Statement for the January 20112012 Annual Meeting of Shareholders are incorporated herein by reference ininto Part III.

III of this report.



Table of Contents

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

FORM 10-K

TABLE OF CONTENTS

    PAGE

 1

  
Item 1  

Item 1

1A
  
Item 1B  2

Item 1A

Risk Factors14

Item 1B

Item 2  19

Item 2

3
  
Item 4  20

Item 3

 
  20

Item 4

5
  Reserved20

PART II

Item 5

Item 6  21

Item 6

Item 7  23

Item 7

Item 7A  24

Item 7A

Item 8  43

Item 8

Item 9  44

Item 9

Item 9A  84

Item 9A

Item 9B  84

Item 9B

 
  84

PART III

Item 10
  

Item 10

Item 11  85

Item 11

12
  Executive Compensation86

Item 12

Item 13  86

Item 13

Item 14  86

Item 14

 86

  
Item 15  

Item 15

 87

90



Table of Contents

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

Statements and information included in this Annual Report on Form 10-K by Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. (the “Company”) that are not purely historical are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and are made pursuant to the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. AllExcept as noted herein or as the context may otherwise require, all references to “we,” “our,” “us” and “SSI” refer to the Company.

Company and its consolidated subsidiaries.

Forward-looking statements in this Annual Report on Form 10-K include statements regarding our expectations, intentions, beliefs and strategies regarding the future, including statements regarding trends, cyclicality and changes in the markets we sell into; strategic direction; changes to manufacturing and production processes; the cost of compliance with environmental and other laws; expected tax rates, deductions and deductions;credits; the realization of deferred tax assets; planned capital expenditures; liquidity positions; ability to generate cash from continuing operations; the potential impact of adopting new accounting pronouncements; expected results, including pricing, sales volumes and profitability; obligations under our retirement plans; savings or additional costs from business realignment and cost containment programs; and the adequacy of accruals.

When used in this report, the words “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “assumes,” “estimates,” “evaluates,” “may,” “could,” “opinions,” “forecasts,” “future,” “forward,” “potential,” “probable,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements.

We may make other forward-looking statements from time to time, including in press releases and public conference calls. All forward-looking statements we make are based on information available to us at the time the statements are made, and we assume no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as may be required by law. Our business is subject to the effects of changes in domestic and global economic conditions and a number of other risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those included in, or implied by, such forward-looking statements. Some of these risks and uncertainties are discussed in Item 1A. Risk Factors of Part I of this Form 10-K. Other examples includeExamples of these risks include: potential environmental cleanup costs related to the Portland Harbor Superfund site; volatile supply and demand conditions affecting prices and volumes in the markets for both our products and raw materials we purchase; world economic conditions; world political conditions;difficulties associated with acquisitions and integration of acquired businesses; the impact of goodwill impairment charges; the inability of customers to fulfill their contractual obligations; the impact of foreign currency fluctuations; potential limitations on our ability to match raw material intake and finished product output with demand; changes in federal and state income tax laws; government regulations and environmental matters;access credit facilities; the impact of pending or new laws and regulations regardingthe consolidation in the steel industry; the impact of imports of foreign steel into and exportsthe U.S.; inability to realize expected benefits from the United States and other countries; foreign currency fluctuations; competition; seasonality, including weather; energy supplies;investments in technology; freight rates and availability of transportation; loss of key personnel; the inability to obtain sufficient quantities of scrap metal to support current orders; purchase price estimates made during acquisitions; business integration issues relating to acquisitions of businesses; creditworthiness of and availability of credit to suppliers and customers; new accounting pronouncements; availability of capital resources; business disruptions resulting from installation or replacement of major capital assets; andproduct liability claims; costs associated with compliance with environmental regulations; the adverse impact of climate change, including as a resultchange; inability to obtain or renew business licenses and permits; compliance with greenhouse gas emission regulations; reliance on employees subject to collective bargaining agreements; and the impact of treaties, legislation or regulations.the underfunded status of multiemployer plans in which we participate.


1

/ Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  12011



PART I

ITEM 1. BUSINESS

General

Founded in 1906, Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc., an Oregon corporation, is one of the nation’s largest recyclers of ferrous and nonferrous scrap metal, a leading recycler of used and salvaged vehicles and a manufacturer of finished steel products. Our foundingThe foundation of our business practice is a commitment to sustainability – recycling metal to generate additional value while achieving profitable growth. TheIn recent years, the worldwide demand for scrap metal ishas been driven by continued strong demand for new steel products, electric arc furnace (“EAF”) steel mill technology which relies on scrap metal as its primary feedstock and, to a certain extent, the use by blast furnaces of scrap metal, because itwhich reduces energy costs and use of virgin materials use, water use and mining wastes.

materials. The emerging markets, the primary end markets for our recycled scrap metal, currently generate insufficient levels of scrap metal to feed their steel production. This results in a need to source recycled scrap metal from developed economies, including the United States, which, together with domestic requirements, creates ongoing demand for our products.

Through our North American metals recycling business, we collect and recycle autobodies, rail cars, home appliances, industrial machinery, manufacturing scrap and construction demolition from bridges, buildings and other obsolete structures. With 4356 operating facilities located in 14 states, Western Canada and Puerto Rico, we are uniquely positionedwell-positioned to efficiently collect scrap metal throughout North America and export product to where demand is greatest. Utilizing our seven deep water ports, weWe sold to customers in 19 countries in fiscal 2011 and have the capability to export to customers around the world.

world from our seven deep water ports.

Our metals recycling business also benefits from synergies with our auto parts business.business in certain geographic regions. Our auto parts business, which has 4550 retail locations, buys end-of-life vehicles, sells parts to retail and wholesale customers and sells scrap metal to metals recyclers, including our metals recycling business depending upon location.where geographically feasible. In addition, our metals recyclingsteel manufacturing business benefits from synergies with our steel manufacturingmetals recycling business, by sellingwhich is the sole supplier of the scrap metal toutilized by our steel mini-mill that producesto produce finished steel products such as rebar, wire rod, coiled rebar, merchant bar and other specialty products using nearly 100% recycled metal.

In fiscal 2011, our metals recycling operations processed or brokered 5.3 million tons of ferrous scrap metal and 569 million pounds of nonferrous scrap metal; our revenues by major scrap product were approximately 79% ferrous and 20% nonferrous; and 82% of our revenues were from export sales.
We report the operations of these three businesses in three reporting segments: the Metals Recycling Business (“MRB”), the Auto Parts Business (“APB”) and the Steel Manufacturing Business (“SMB”). See Note 20 – Segment Information in the notesNotes to the consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements in Part II, Item 8 of this report.

report for a discussion of revenues from external customers, operating results from continuing operations and total assets by reporting segment.

Metals Recycling Business

Business

MRB buys, collects, processes, recycles, sells and brokers ferrous scrap metal (containing iron) to foreign and domestic steel producers, including SMB, and nonferrous scrap metal (not containing iron) to both foreign and domestic markets. MRB processes mixed and large pieces of scrap metal into smaller pieces by crushing, sorting, shearing, shredding, and torching, resulting in scrap metal pieces of a size, density and purity required by customers to meet their production needs. The manufacturing process includes physical separation of materials through manualautomated and sophisticated mechanicalmanual processes into ferrous and nonferrous sub-classifications, each of which has a value and metal content of importance to different customers for their end product.

To prepare scrap metal, we crush, sort and bale the material by classification for easier handling and sale. One of the most efficient ways to process and sort recycled scrap metal is through the use of shredding systems. Currently, each of MRB’s port locations is equipped with shredders. Our largest port facilities in Everett, Massachusetts; Portland, Oregon; Oakland, California; and Tacoma, Washington haseach operate a mega-shredder capable of processing over 2,500 tons of scrap metal per day.with 7,000 to 9,000 horsepower. MRB’s Johnston, Rhode Island facility operates a large shredder capable of processing up to 1,500 tons of scrap metal per day, MRB’sIsland; Salinas, Puerto Rico facility operates a shredder that can process up to 500 tons of scrap metal per day and theRico; Kapolei, Hawaii; Anchorage, Alaska; and Concord, New Hampshire facilities each operate smaller shredders.shredders with 1,500 to 6,000 horsepower. Mega-shredders are designed to provide a denser product and, in conjunction with new separation equipment, a more refined and preferable form of ferrous scrap metal which can be more efficiently used by steel mills. The larger shredders are also able to accept more types of material, resulting in more efficient processing. Shredders can reduce autobodies, home appliances and other scrap metal into fist-size pieces of shredded recycled scrap metal. The shredded material is then carried by conveyor under magnetized drums that attract the recycled ferrous scrap metal and separate it from the nonferrous scrap metal and other residue found in the shredded material, resulting in a consistent and high quality shredded ferrous product. The remaining nonferrous scrap metal and residue then pass through a series of

2  /  Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010


additional mechanical and manual sorting systems designed to separate the nonferrous metal from the residue. The remaining nonferrous metal is then hand-sorted and graded before being sold or sold as a mixed product. MRB continues to invest in nonferrous metal extraction and separation technologies in order to maximize the recoverability of valuable nonferrous metal. MRB also purchases nonferrous metal directly from industrial


2 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011


vendors and other suppliers and bundlesbales this metal to sell to customers.

Products

MRB sells both ferrous and nonferrous scrap metal. The primary product produced is ferrous scrap metal, which is a key feedstock used in the production of finished steel products. Ferrous scrap metal is primarily categorized into plate and structural or “bonus,”(“bonus”), heavy melting steel (“HMS”) and shredded scrap.scrap, although there are various grades of each category depending on cleanliness, size of individual pieces, and residual alloy content. These attributes affect the product’s relative value. Our nonferrous products include aluminum, copper, stainless steel, nickel, brass, titanium, lead, high temperature alloys and joint products such as zorba (primarily mixed nonferrous material) and zurik (predominantly stainless steel).

Customers

MRB sells its products globally to steel mills, foundries and smelters, located inand is the United States (“US”) and around the world and provides substantially allsole supplier of the ferrous scrap metal required by SMB.

Presented below are MRB revenues by continent for the last three fiscal years ended August 31 (dollars in thousands):

   2010  % of
Revenue
  2009  % of
Revenue
  2008  % of
Revenue
 

Asia

  $1,228,022   67 $981,127   70 $1,437,850   53

North America

   503,651   28  301,093   22  917,485   34

Europe

   162,284   9  176,754   13  446,012   16

Africa

   85,813   5  48,681   3  261,503   9

Sales to SMB

   (155,310 (9%)   (109,985 (8%)   (328,412 (12%) 
                

Total revenues (net of
intercompany)

  $1,824,460   100 $1,397,670   100 $2,734,438   100
                

 2011 
% of
Revenue
 2010 
% of
Revenue
 2009 
% of
Revenue
Asia$1,837,011
 63 % $1,228,022
 67 % $981,127
 70 %
North America691,678
 24 % 503,651
 28 % 301,093
 22 %
Europe325,191
 11 % 162,284
 9 % 176,754
 13 %
Africa216,124
 7 % 85,813
 5 % 48,681
 3 %
Sales to SMB(169,331) (5)% (155,310) (9)% (109,985) (8)%
Total (net of intercompany)$2,900,673
 100 % $1,824,460
 100 % $1,397,670
 100 %
In fiscal 2010,2011, MRB generated revenues of $10 million or more from customers in 1214 countries, including China, the United States, China, South Korea, Turkey, Egypt, Thailand, Taiwan, Malaysia, Thailand,Japan, Indonesia, Italy, India, Turkey, Egypt, Greece, IndonesiaSpain and Japan.Greece. MRB generated revenues of $10 million or more from customers in 12 countries in fiscal 20092010 and 14 countries2009.
MRB’s five largest external ferrous scrap metal customers accounted for 46% of recycled ferrous metal revenues in fiscal 2008.2011 and 35% in fiscal 2010 and 2009. MRB had no external customers that accounted for 10% or more of consolidated revenues in fiscal 2011, 2010 2009 or 2008.

MRB’s five largest external ferrous scrap metal customers accounted for 35%, 35% and 37% of recycled ferrous metal revenues in fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.. Customer purchase volumes of ferrous scrap metal vary from year to year due to demand, competition, economic growth, infrastructure spending, relative currency values, availability of credit and other factors. Ferrous metal sales are generallyprimarily denominated in USU.S. dollars, and almost all of the largestlarge shipments of ferrous scrap metal to foreign customers are supported by letters of credit.

The table below sets forth, on a revenue and volume basis, the amount of recycled ferrous scrap metal sold by MRB to foreign and domestic customers during the last three fiscal years ended August 31:

   2010  2009  2008
   Revenues(1)  Volume(2)  Revenues(1)  Volume(2)  Revenues(1)  Volume(2)

Foreign

  $1,188,490  3,122  $1,032,571  3,436  $1,935,084  3,655

SMB

   155,310  458   109,985  335   328,412  737

Other domestic

   214,864  651   106,752  418   327,300  805
                     

Total

  $1,558,664  4,231  $1,249,308  4,189  $2,590,796  5,197
                     

 2011 2010 2009
 
Revenues(1)
 
Volume(2)
 
Revenues(1)
 
Volume(2)
 
Revenues(1)
 
Volume(2)
Foreign$1,974,972
 4,236
 $1,188,490
 3,122
 $1,032,571
 3,436
SMB166,259
 404
 155,310
 458
 109,985
 335
Other domestic284,257
 689
 214,864
 651
 106,752
 418
Total$2,425,488
 5,329
 $1,558,664
 4,231
 $1,249,308
 4,189
 _____________________________
(1)

Revenues stated in thousands of dollars.

(2)

Volume stated in thousands of long tons (one long ton = 2,240 pounds).

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  3


MRB also sells processed nonferrous scrap metal to foreignspecialty steelmakers, foundries, aluminum sheet and domestic customers.ingot manufacturers, copper refineries and smelters, brass and bronze ingot manufacturers and wire and cable producers globally. MRB continues to growincrease its nonferrous volumes available for sale by extracting higher amounts of nonferrous products due to improvements in the extraction processes used to recover nonferrous metal from the shredding process due to investments in advanced separation technology and by expanding its nonferrous collection facilities.


3 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011


The table below sets forth, on a revenue and volume basis, the amount of recycled nonferrous scrap metal sold by MRB to foreign and domestic customers during the last three fiscal years ended August 31:

   2010  2009  2008
   Revenues(1)  Volume(2)  Revenues(1)  Volume(2)  Revenues(1)  Volume(2)

Foreign

  $288,472  351,821  $174,756  294,016  $239,765  260,798

Domestic

   124,455  126,665   76,752  103,040   220,874  178,672
                     

Total

  $412,927  478,486  $251,508  397,056  $460,639  439,470
                     

 2011 2010 2009
 
Revenues(1)
 
Volume(2)
 
Revenues(1)
 
Volume(2)
 
Revenues(1)
 
Volume(2)
Foreign$412,891
 399,933
 $288,472
 351,821
 $174,756
 294,016
Domestic206,749
 168,627
 124,455
 126,665
 76,752
 103,040
Total$619,640
 568,560
 $412,927
 478,486
 $251,508
 397,056
 ____________________________
(1)

Revenues stated in thousands of dollars.

(2)

Volume stated in thousands of pounds.

Pricing
Pricing

Domestic and foreign prices for ferrous scrap metal are generally based on prevailing market rates, which can differ by region and are subject to market cycles that are influenced by worldwide demand from steel and other metal producers and by the availability of materials that can be processed into saleable scrap metal, among other factors. Export recycled ferrous metal sales contracts generally provide for shipment within 30 to 9060 days after the price is agreed to which, in most cases, includes freight. Nonferrous metal sales contracts generally provide for shipment in less than 30 days after the price is agreed and typically include freight.

MRB responds to changing price levelschanges in selling prices by adjusting scrap metal purchase prices at its recycling facilities in order to manage the impact on its operating income. The spread between selling prices and the cost of purchased material is subject to a number of factors, including differences in the market conditions in the domestic regions where recycled metal is acquired and the areas in the world where the processed materials are sold, market volatility from the time the selling price is agreed with the customer until the time the raw material is purchased, and changes in the assumedestimated costs of transportation to the buyer’s facility. We believe MRB generally benefits from rising recycled metal selling prices, which allow it to better maintain or expand both operating income and unprocessed metal flow into its facilities, and suffers when recycled metal selling prices decline, which tend to compress its operating margins.

Markets
Markets

In recent years, worldwide demand for finished steel products has been steadily growing, at a faster rate than the available supply ofwhich has increased demand for raw materials, in particular recycled ferrous metal, which is one of the primary raw materialsfeedstocks used in manufacturingEAFs to manufacture steel. During this time,In recent years, the demand for finished steel has been growing most rapidly in developing countriesemerging markets in Asia and the Mediterranean, which currently do not possess an adequate supply of raw materialsprocessed scrap metal to produce steel. As a result of this demand, MRB’s ferrous exports have made up 74%79%, 82%74% and 70%82% of its total ferrous sales volume in fiscal 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008,2009, respectively. The Asian developing countries have also been the primary recipients ofmarkets for MRB’s nonferrous products, with nonferrous exports making up 74%, 74% and 59%70% of its total nonferrous sales volumes in fiscal 2010, 20092011 and 2008, respectively. Unlike74% of its total nonferrous sales volumes in fiscal 2010 and 2009. While the ferrous export market is highly diversified with no single country dominating sales from year to year, in the nonferrous markets, China hasand the U.S. have been the largest destination for MRB’s nonferrous export sales.

Consolidation in the Scrap Metal Industrysales destinations.

The metals recycling industry has been consolidating over the last several years, primarily due to a high degree of fragmentation and the ability of large, well-capitalized processors to achieve competitive advantages by investing in capital improvements to improve efficiencies and lower processing costs. We believe that we are in a position to make reasonably priced acquisitions in the metals recycling industry as a result of our low levels of debt, historical ability to generate cash from operations and available borrowing capacity.

4  /  Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010


Distribution

MRB delivers recycled ferrous and nonferrous scrap metal to foreign customers by ship and to domestic customers by barge, rail and over the roadover-the-road transportation networks. Cost efficiencies are achieved by operating deep water terminal facilities at Everett, Massachusetts; Portland, Oregon; Oakland, California; Tacoma, Washington; and Providence, Rhode Island, all of which are owned except for the Providence, Rhode Island facility, which is operated under a long-term lease. We also have access to deep water terminal facilities at Kapolei, Hawaii and Salinas, Puerto Rico through public docks. These seven deep water terminals enable us to load ferrous material in large vessels capable of holding up to 50,000 tons for trans-oceanic shipments. Additionally, because we own most of the terminal facilities inat which MRB operates, MRB is not normally subject to the same berthing delays often experienced by users of unaffiliated terminals. We believe that MRB’s loading costs are lower than they would be if it utilized only third party terminal facilities. From time to time, MRB may enter into contracts of affreightment, which guarantee the availability of ocean going vessels, in order to manage the risks associated with ship availability and freight costs.

Our nonferrous products are shipped in containers which hold 20 to 30 tons from container ports and rail ramps located in close proximity to our recycling facilities. Containerized shipments are exported by marine vessels to customers all over the world and domestic shipments are typically shipped by rail or by truck.
Sources of Unprocessed Metal

The most common forms of purchased raw metal are obsolete machinery and equipment, such as automobiles, railroad cars,

4 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011


railroad tracks, home appliances and other consumer goods, waste metal from manufacturing operations and demolition metal from buildings and other obsolete structures. ThisRaw metal is acquired from a diverse base of suppliers who unload at MRB’s facilities, from drop boxes at a diverse base of suppliers’ industrial sites and through negotiated purchases from other large suppliers, including railroads, industrial manufacturers, automobile salvage facilities, metal dealers, various government entities and individuals. The majority of MRB’s scrap metal collection and processing facilities receive raw metal via major railroad routes, waterways or major highways. MetalMetals recycling facilities situated near unprocessed metal sellers and major transportation routes have the competitive advantage of reduced freight costs because of the significant cost of freight relative to the cost of metal. The locations of MRB’s West Coast facilities allow it to competitively purchase raw metal from the Northern California region, northwards up the West Coast to Western Canada and Alaska and to the east, including Idaho, Montana, Utah, Colorado and Nevada. The locations of the East Coast facilities provide access to sources of unprocessed metal in New York, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Eastern Canada and, from time to time, the Midwest. In the Southeastern US,U.S., approximately half of MRB’s ferrous and nonferrous unprocessed metal volume is purchased from industrial companies, including domestic and international auto manufacturers, with the remaining volume being purchased from smaller dealers and individuals. These industrial companies provide MRB with metals that are by-products of their manufacturing processes. The supply of scrap metal from these manufacturers can fluctuate with the level of automotive and other manufacturing production in the region.

Backlog
Backlog

As of October 13, 2010,September 30, 2011, MRB had a backlog of orders to sell $221$249 million of export ferrous metal compared to $73$221 million as of October 13, 2009.2010. Additionally, as of September 30, 2010,2011, MRB had a backlog of orders to sell $20$30 million of export nonferrous metal compared to $18$20 million as of September 30, 2009.

2010.

Competition

MRB faces stiff competition for both the purchase and sale of scrap metal.

MRB competes domestically for the purchase of scrap metal with large, well-financed recyclers of scrap metal, steel mills that own scrap yards and smaller metal facilities and dealers. In general, the competitive factors impacting the purchase of scrap metal are the price offered by the purchaser and the proximity of the purchaser to the scrap metal source. MRB also competes with brokers who buy scrap metal on behalf of domestic and foreign steel mills.

MRB competes globally for the sale of processed recycled metal to finished steel producers. The predominant competitive factors that impact recycled metal sales are price (including shipping cost), reliability of service, product quality and availability of scrap metal and scrap metal substitutes.

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  5


No single scrap metals recycler has a dominant market share in the markets in which we do business.

We believe MRB’s ability to process substantial volumes of scrap metal products, state of the artstate-of-the-art equipment, number of locations, access to a variety of different modes of transportation, geographic dispersion and cross-divisional synergies provide its business with competitive advantages.

Consolidation in the Scrap Metal Industry
The metals recycling industry has been consolidating over the last several years, primarily due to a high degree of fragmentation and the ability of large, well-capitalized processors to achieve competitive advantages by investing in capital improvements to improve efficiencies and lower processing costs. We believe that we are in a position to continue to make acquisitions in the metals recycling industry as a result of our historical ability to generate cash from operations and available borrowing capacity.
Auto Parts Business

Business and Products

APB procures used and salvaged vehicles and sells serviceable used auto parts from these vehicles through its 4550 self-service auto parts stores which are located across the USU.S. and Western Canada. The remaining portions of the vehicles, primarily autobodies, cores (which include engines, transmissions, alternators and catalytic converters) and nonferrous materials, are sold to metal recyclers, including MRB where geographically feasible. APB completed the sale of its full-service used auto parts operation to LKQ Corporation in October 2009.

Customers

Self-service stores generally serve customers who are looking to obtain serviceable used auto parts at a competitive price. These customers remove the used auto parts from vehicles in inventory without the assistance of store employees. In addition, APB sells the cores to a variety of wholesale buyers and the scrap metal from end-of-life vehicles to MRB and third party recycling yards throughout the USU.S. and Western Canada.

We believe that APB has an enhanceda competitive advantage throughbecause of: its various information technology systems, which are used to centrally manage and operate the geographically diverse network of stores; by applying aits consistent approach to offering customers a large selection of vehicles from which to obtain parts; and by its efficient processing of autobodies. APB had no external customers that accounted for 10% or more of consolidated revenues in fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009 or 2008.

.


5 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011

Table of Contents

APB is dedicated to supplying low-cost used auto parts to its customers. In general, we believe that the sale prices of auto parts at APB’s self-service stores are significantly lower than those offered at full-service auto dismantlers, retail car parts stores and car dealerships. Each self-service store offers an extensive selection of vehicles (including domestic and foreign cars, vans and light trucks) from which consumers can remove parts. APB regularly rotates its vehicle inventory to provide its customers greater access to a continually changing parts inventory.

The table below sets forth APB revenues from domestic and foreign customers for the last three fiscal years ended August 31 (in thousands):

   2010  2009  2008 

Domestic

  $225,403   $144,346   $213,643  

Foreign

   15,830    8,861    14,439  

Sales to MRB

   (49,538  (26,916  (48,759
             

Total revenues (net of intercompany)

  $191,695   $126,291   $179,323  
             

Fragmentation of the Auto Parts Industry

The auto parts industry is characterized by diverse and fragmented competition and is comprised of a large number of aftermarket and used auto parts suppliers of all sizes. These companies range from large, multinational corporations, which serve both original equipment manufacturers and the aftermarket on a worldwide basis, to small, local producers which supply only a few parts for a particular car model.

 2011 2010 2009
Domestic$296,554
 $225,403
 $144,346
Foreign23,279
 15,830
 8,861
Sales to MRB(78,795) (49,538) (26,916)
Total (net of intercompany)$241,038
 $191,695
 $126,291
Distribution

APB sells used auto parts from each of its self-service retail stores. Upon arriving at a self-service store, a customer typically pays an admission charge and signs a liability waiver before entering the car lot. When a customer finds a desired part on a vehicle, the customer removes it and pays a pre-establishedlisted price for the part.

The wholesale component of APB’s business consists of core and scrapped vehicle sales. Catalytic converters are removed from the vehicle prior to it being placed in the customer area. Once the vehicle is removed from the customer area, coresthe remaining core parts, including engines, transmissions and alternators, are removed from the vehicle and consolidated at central facilities in California, Florida,

6  /  Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010


Oregon, Texas and Calgary, Canada. From these facilities, the cores are sold to a variety of wholesale buyers through a competitive bidding process. Due to the larger quantities generated by this consolidation process, APB is able to obtain higher prices by focusing on larger wholesale customers that purchase in volume. After the core removal process is complete, the remaining autobody is crushed and sold as scrap metal in the wholesale market. The autobodies are sold on a price per ton basis, which is subject to fluctuations in the recycled ferrous metal markets. During fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, APB generated revenues of $50$79 million $27, $50 million and $49$27 million during fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively, from sales to MRB, making MRB the single largest customer of APB.

Marketing

APB has customized marketing initiatives that are unique to its self-service brand. The brand marketing plan focuses on the acquisition of private party vehicles and attracting auto parts customers into the stores. The marketing plan targets the local markets surrounding the stores and incorporates various strategies, including the use of radio and television advertising to promote vehicle purchasing, regularly scheduled in-store promotions and other forms of product promotion. Each store has a customized marketing calendar designed for its market and the community it serves.

APB typically seeks to locate its facilities with convenient access to major streets and in major population centers. By operating at locations that are convenient and visible to the target customer, the stores seek to become the customer’s first stop inwhen acquiring used auto parts.

Sources of Vehicles

APB obtains vehicles from five primary sources: private parties, tow companies, charities, auto auctions and city contracts. APB has a program to purchase vehicles from private parties called “Cash for Junk Cars,” which is advertised in local markets. Private parties call a toll-free number and receive a quote for their vehicle. The private party can either deliver the vehicle to one of APB’s retail locations or arrange for the vehicle to be picked up. APB also employs car buyers who travel to vendors and bid on vehicles. In fiscal 2010, APB’s ability to obtain additional and higher quality vehicles was temporarily enhanced through the government’s Cash-For-Clunkers stimulus program.

Competition

The auto parts industry is characterized by diverse and fragmented competition and comprises a large number of aftermarket and used auto parts suppliers of all sizes. These companies range from large, multinational corporations, which serve both original equipment manufacturers and the aftermarket on a worldwide basis to small, local producers which supply only a few parts for a particular car model.
APB competes for the purchase of vehicles with other auto dismantlers, used car dealers, auto auctions and metal recyclers. In general, the main competitive factors impacting the purchase of vehicles are the price offered by the purchaser and the proximity of the purchaser to the source of the vehicle.
APB competes for the sale of used auto parts with other self-service and full-service auto dismantlers as well as larger well-financedwell-

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financed retail auto parts businesses.

For sales of cores and scrapped vehicles, APB competes globally with other metal recyclers. The main competitive factors impacting the sale of APB’s products are price, availability of parts, quality and availability of scrapped product, and location of the retail stores that is convenient to customers.

Steel Manufacturing Business

Business

SMB operates a steel mini-mill in McMinnville, Oregon that produces a wide range of finished steel products using recycled metal and other raw materials. MRB is the sole supplier for SMB’s scrap metal requirements, which SMB purchases substantially all of its recycled metal from MRB at rates that approximate export market prices for shipments from the West Coast of the US.

U.S.

Manufacturing
Manufacturing

SMB’s melt shop includes an electric arc furnace (“EAF”),EAF, a ladle refining furnace, and a five-strand continuous billet caster and has enhanced steel chemistry refining capabilities, permitting the mill to produce special alloy grades of steel not currently produced by other mills on the USU.S. West Coast. The melt shop produced 454 thousand, 494 thousand and 401 thousand and 802 thousand tons of steel in the form of billets during fiscal 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008,2009, respectively. SMB continues to reinvest in its melt shop to improve efficiencies in the melting process.

SMB also operates two computerized rolling mills that allow for synchronized operations of the rolling mills and related equipment. Billets produced in SMB’s melt shop are reheated in two natural gas-fueled furnaces and are then hot-rolled through one of the two rolling mills to produce finished products. SMB has completed a number of improvement projects to both mills designed to increase both their operating efficiency and the types of products that can be competitively produced. SMB continues to monitor the market for new products and, through discussions with customers, identify additional opportunities to expand its product lines and sales.

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  7


SMB’s effective annual finished goods production capacity is approximately 800 thousand tons under current conditions.

Products

SMB produces semi-finished goods (billets) and finished goods, consisting of rebar, coiled rebar, wire rod, merchant bar and other specialty products. Semi-finished goods are predominantly used for SMB’s finished products, but also have been produced for sale to other steel mills. Rebar is produced in either straight length steel bars or coils and used to increase the tensile strength of poured concrete. Coiled rebar is preferred by some manufacturers because it reduces the waste generated by cutting individual lengths to meet customer specifications and, therefore, improves yield. Wire rod is steel rod, delivered in coiled form, used by manufacturers to produce a variety of products such as chain link fencing, nails, wire and stucco netting. Merchant bar consists of round, flat, angle and square steel bars used by manufacturers to produce a wide variety of products, including gratings, steel floor and roof joists, safety walkways, ornamental furniture, stair railings and farm equipment. SMB is also certified to produce high quality rebar to support nuclear power plant construction.

The table below sets forth, on a revenue and volume basis, the sales of these products during the last three fiscal years ended August 31:

   2010  2009  2008
   Revenues(1)  Volume(2)  Revenues(1)  Volume(2)  Revenues(1)  Volume(2)

Rebar

  $122,879  217,302  $129,750  226,796  $352,087  470,111

Wire rod

   102,690  157,677   67,800  88,512   133,815  178,508

Coiled rebar

   25,762  43,005   25,404  38,618   51,020  67,598

Merchant bar

   19,381  25,432   22,221  27,181   49,324  59,565

Other products(3)

   14,373  40,199   18,094  32,664   16,943  32,048
                     

Total

  $285,085  483,615  $263,269  413,771  $603,189  807,830
                     

 2011 2010 2009
 
Revenues(1)
 
Volume(2)
 
Revenues(1)
 
Volume(2)
 
Revenues(1)
 
Volume(2)
Finished steel products$317,338
 438,874
 $270,712
 443,416
 $245,175
 381,107
Semi-finished steel products(3)
145
 199
 14,373
 40,199
 18,094
 32,664
Total$317,483
 439,073
 $285,085
 483,615
 $263,269
 413,771
_____________________________
(1)

Revenues stated in thousands of dollars.

(2)

Volume stated in short tons (one short ton = 2,000 pounds).

(3)

Includes primarily sales of billets (semi-finished goods).

billets.

Customers
Customers

SMB’s customers are principally steel service centers, construction industry subcontractors, steel fabricators, wire drawers and major farm and wood products suppliers. During fiscal 2010,2011, SMB sold its finished steel products to customers located primarily in the Western USU.S. and Canada and its billets to customers in Asia.Canada. Customers in California accounted for 34%35% of SMB’s revenuerevenues in fiscal 2010.2011. SMB’s ten largest customers accounted for 54%53%, 47%54% and 36%47% of its revenues during fiscal 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008,2009, respectively. No SMB had no external customers thatcustomer accounted for 10% or more of consolidated revenues in fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009 or 2008.

.


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The table below sets forth SMB revenues from domestic and foreign customers for the last three fiscal years ended August 31 (in thousands):

   2010  2009  2008

Domestic

  $206,943  $226,675  $515,629

Foreign(1)

   78,142   36,594   87,560
            

Total

  $285,085  $263,269  $603,189
            

 2011 2010 2009
Domestic$256,888
 $206,943
 $226,675
Foreign(1)
60,595
 78,142
 36,594
Total$317,483
 $285,085
 $263,269
____________________________
(1)

Includes sales to Canada of $56$59 million $27, $56 million and $52$27 million in fiscal 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008,2009, respectively.

8  /  Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010


Consolidation in the Steel Industry

While the

The pace of consolidation in the global steel industry has slowed duein recent years consistent with the sluggish economic growth, particularly in the U.S. As the current outlook for construction and infrastructure spending in the U.S. remains weak, there is likely to the impact of the global economic crisis, we continue to see consolidation ofbe some contraction domestically as smaller, less well-capitalized steel producers or fabricators. In addition,and fabricators exit the market and other firms reduce production. However, cross-border consolidation remains attractive due to stronger demand from developing countries and the potential for achieving greater efficiency and economies of scale, particularly in response to the consolidation undertaken by raw material suppliers and consumers of steel products.

Distribution

SMB sells directly from its mini-mill in McMinnville, Oregon and its owned distribution center in El Monte, California (Los Angeles area) and a third party distribution center in Lathrop, California (Central California). Products are shipped from the mini-mill to the distribution centerscenter, primarily by rail. The distribution centers facilitatecenter facilitates sales by maintaining an inventory of products close to major customers for just-in-time delivery. SMB communicates regularly with major customers to determine their anticipated needs and plans its rolling mill production schedule accordingly. Shipments to customers are made by common carrier, primarily truck or rail.

Recycled

Supply of Scrap Metal Supply

We believe SMB operates the only mini-mill in the Western USU.S. that obtains substantially all of its recycledscrap metal requirements from an affiliated metal recycling operations.recycler. MRB is able to deliverprovides a mix of recycled metal grades to SMB, which allows SMB to achieve optimum efficiency in SMB’sits melting operations. As the steel mill and various MRB facilities are located on railway routes, SMB benefits from the ability to ship by either rail or truck.

Energy Supply

SMB needs a significant amount of electricity to run its operations, primarily its EAF. SMB purchasespurchased electricity under a long-term contract with McMinnville Water & Light, that expires in September 2011, which in turn relies on the Bonneville Power Administration. Electricity represented 4%, 3%The contract expired in September 2011 and 3% of SMB’s cost of goods sold in fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

SMB is currently negotiating a new contract with the same supplier.

SMB also needs a significant amount of natural gas to run its reheat furnaces, which are used to reheat billets prior to running them through the rolling mills. SMB meets this demand through a take-or-pay natural gas contractagreement with a utility provider that expires on May 31, 2011 and obligates itSMB at each month-end to purchase minimum quantitiesa set volume of gas for the immediately subsequent month on a take-or-pay basis priced using published natural gas per day through October 2010, whether or not the amount is utilized. Natural gasindices.
Energy costs represented 3%5%, 2%7% and 2%5% of SMB’s cost of goods sold in fiscal 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008,2009, respectively. See Note 14 – Derivative Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements in the notes to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of this report for further detail.

Backlog
Backlog

SMB generally ships products within days after the receipt of purchase orders. As of September 30, 20102011, SMB had a backlog of orders of $24$23 million, compared to $6$24 million as of September 30, 2009.

2010.

Competition

SMB’s primary domestic competitors for the sale of finished steel products include Nucor Corporation’s manufacturing facilities in Arizona, Utah and Washington, TAMCO Steel’sGerdau Long Steel North America’s facility in California and Commercial Metals Company’s manufacturing facility in Arizona. In addition to domestic competition, SMB has historically competed with foreign steel producers, principally located in Asia, Canada, Mexico and Central and South America, primarily in shorter length rebar and certain wire rod grades. TheCertain U.S. manufacturers have also expanded downstream distribution operations to include import products which are highly competitive due to lower production costs.The principal competitive factors in SMB’s market are price, product availability, quality and service. In addition, demand and the resulting level of steel imports are impacted by general economic conditions and the value of the USU.S. dollar.

In 2002, the US GovernmentU.S. government imposed anti-dumping and countervailing duties against wire rod products from eight foreign countries. These duties remain in effect today, are periodically reviewed and do not have a set expiration date. In 2007, the International Trade Commission extended existing rebar anti-dumping duties of up to 233% on imports from seven nations through 2012.


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2012.
Strategic Focus

Use of our Seven Deep Water Ports to Access Global Demand

We maintain

Our seven deep water terminal facilities adjacent to our operating facilities in Everett, Massachusetts; Portland, Oregon; Oakland, California; Tacoma, Washington; and Providence, Rhode Island and also have access to deep water terminal facilities at Kapolei, Hawaii and Salinas, Puerto Rico through public docks. These seven deep water terminals enable us to bulk load large vessels capable of trans-oceanic shipments, which allowsthereby allowing us to efficiently ship product globally to wherever demand is highest. Cost efficiencies are achieved because we own the majority of these terminal facilities, asso we are not normally subject to the same berthing delays often experienced by users of unaffiliated terminals.

terminals, and because we are able to use bulk cargoes of up to 50,000 tons, which we believe to be more cost-efficient than containerized shipments that hold 20 to 30 tons because freight is generally lower on a per ton basis.

Acquisitions and Divestitures

We continue to focus on growth through value-creating acquisitions and will pursue acquisition opportunities we believe will create shareholder value and generate long-term returns in excess ofconsistent with our cost of capital.strategy. With our historically strong balance sheet, ability to generate positive cash flows from operations and available borrowing capacity, we believe we are in a position to continue to complete reasonably priced acquisitions fitting our long-term strategic plans.

During fiscal 2011, we made the following acquisitions:
In September 2010, we acquired substantially all of the assets of SOS Metals Island Recycling, LLC, a metals recycler in Maui, Hawaii, to provide an additional source of scrap metal for our MRB Hawaii facility.
In November 2010, we acquired substantially all of the assets utilized by Specialized Parts Planet, Inc. at its Stockton, California used auto parts facility, which expanded APB’s presence in the Western U.S.
In December 2010, we acquired substantially all of the assets of Waco U-Pull It, Inc., a used auto parts store in Waco, Texas, which expanded APB’s presence in the Southwestern U.S.
In December 2010, we acquired substantially all of the assets of Macon Iron & Paper Stock Co., a metals recycler with two yards in Macon, Georgia, which expanded MRB’s presence in the Southeastern U.S.
In December 2010, we acquired substantially all of the assets of Steel Pacific Recycling Inc., a metals recycler with six yards on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada, that previously supplied ferrous scrap to MRB’s Tacoma, Washington facility. This acquisition marked MRB’s initial expansion into Canada.
In January 2011, we acquired substantially all of the assets of State Line Scrap Co., Inc., a metals recycler with one yard in Attleboro, Massachusetts, which expanded MRB’s presence in the Northeastern U.S.
In January 2011, we acquired substantially all of the mobile car crushing assets of Northwest Recycling, Inc., based in Portland, Oregon, which provides scrap metal for MRB’s Portland, Oregon facility.
In February 2011, we acquired substantially all of the assets of Ferrill’s Auto Parts, Inc., a used auto parts business with three stores in Seattle, Washington, which expanded APB’s presence in the Northwestern U.S.
In March 2011, we acquired substantially all of the metals recycling business assets of Amix Salvage & Sales Ltd., which operated four metals recycling yards in British Columbia, Canada and two metals recycling yards in Alberta, Canada that previously supplied ferrous scrap to MRB’s Tacoma, Washington facility. This acquisition expanded MRB’s presence in Western Canada. As part of the consideration paid, we issued the seller common shares equal to 20% of the issued and outstanding capital stock of our acquisition subsidiary.
In April 2011, we acquired substantially all of the assets of American Metal Group, Inc. and certain of its affiliates, a metals recycler with yards in San Jose and Santa Clara, California that previously supplied ferrous scrap to MRB’s Oakland, California facility. This acquisition expanded MRB’s presence in the Western U.S.
During fiscal 2010, we spent $41 million to acquire six self-service used auto parts stores and a metals recycler. These acquisitions were as follows:

made the following acquisitions:

In October 2009, we acquired substantially all of the assets of four of LKQ Corporation’s self-service used auto parts stores located near our MRB export facility in Portland, Oregon. This acquisition represented our first used auto parts operations in the Pacific Northwest.

In January 2010, we acquired substantially all of the assets of two of LKQ Corporation's self-service used auto parts stores, which increased to four the number of used auto parts facilities that we operate in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

In April 2010, we acquired substantially all of the assets of Golden Recycling and Salvage, Inc., a metals recycler


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in Montana, to provide an additional source of scrap metal for our Tacoma, Washington export facility.

In October 2009, we sold our full-service used auto parts operation, which had operated as part of the APB reporting segment, to LKQ Corporation. The full-service used auto parts operation is not included in APB’s results of operations in fiscal 2010 2009 or 20082009 because the results of this discontinued operation have been reclassified for all periods presented.

In

During fiscal 2009, we acquiredmade the following:

following acquisitions:

In December 2008, we acquired substantially all of the assets of Arrow Metals Corporation, a metals recycler in Washington, to provide an additional source of scrap metal to MRB’s Tacoma, Washington export facility.

In February 2009, we acquired Ponce Resources, Inc., the leading metals recycler in Puerto Rico. This acquisition expanded our presence into a new region, increased our processing capability and provided new sources of scrap metal and access to international export facilities.

In February 2009, we acquired an additional 16.66% equity interest in an auto parts business located in California, and in April 2009, we acquired the remaining 8.34% minority equity interest in this business, thus increasing our equity ownership in this business to 100%. The acquired equity was previously consolidated into our financial statements because we maintained operating control over the entity.

In February 2009, we acquired asubstantially all of the assets of two self-service used auto parts business with two locationsbusinesses in California operated by Specialized Parts Planet, Inc., thereby strengthening our presence in Northern California.

In March 2009, we acquired substantially all of the assets of Solid Waste Reduction Services, Inc., a metals recycler in Nevada, providing an additional source of scrap metal for MRB’s Oakland, California export facility.

In fiscal 2008, we acquired the following:

In September 2007, we acquired a mobile metals recycling business that provides additional sources of scrap metal to MRB’s Everett, Massachusetts facility.

In November 2007, we acquired two metals recycling businesses and in February 2008 we acquired one metals recycling business that expanded our presence in the Southeastern US.

10  /  Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010


In February 2008, we acquired the remaining 50% equity interest in an auto parts business located in Nevada in exchange for our 50% interest in the land and buildings owned by the business. The acquired business was previously consolidated into our financial statements because we maintained operating control over the entity.

In August 2008, we acquired a self-service used auto parts business with three locations in the Southern US.

Processing and Manufacturing Technology Improvements

We aim to be an efficient and competitive producer of both recycled metal and finished steel products in order to maximize the operating income for both operations. To meet this objective, we have historically focused on, and will continue to emphasize, the cost-effective purchasing and efficient processing of scrap metal.

During fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, we spent $64 million, $59 million and $84 million, respectively on capital improvements. These capital expenditures primarily reflect our significant investments in modern equipment to improve the efficiency and capabilities of our businesses and to further maximize our economies of scale. Our capital expenditures in fiscal 2010 included further investments in technology to improve the recovery of nonferrous materials from the shredding process and investments to further improve efficiency and increase capacity, increase worker safety and enhance environmental systems, including investments in storm water systems and in equipment to ensure ongoing compliance with air quality and other environmental regulations.

Capital projects in fiscal 2011 are expected to include continued investments in technology to improve the recovery of nonferrous materials from the shredding process, material handling and processing equipment, enhancements to our information technology infrastructure, improvements to our facilities’ environmental and safety infrastructure and normal equipment replacement and maintenance. We believe these investments will create or protect value for our shareholders.

Continued Improvements in Productivity and Focus on Cost Containment

We have continuous improvement programs that focus on increasing production from shredders, improving existing scrap metal recovery processes and ongoing performance initiatives throughout our operations. The objective of these programs is to identify areas in existing processes that may be inefficient or where current performance could be improved and to recommend and implement solutions that maycould increase revenues or reduce costs by increasing output or recovery.

During fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009, we spent $105 million, $64 million and $59 million, respectively on capital improvements. These capital expenditures primarily reflect our significant investments in modern equipment to improve the efficiency and capabilities of our businesses and to further maximize our economies of scale. Our capital expenditures in fiscal 2011 included investments in technology to improve the recovery and separation of nonferrous materials from the shredding process and investments in infrastructure to improve efficiency, increase capacity, improve worker safety and enhance environmental systems.
Capital projects in fiscal 2012 are expected to include continued investments in technology to improve the recovery and separation of nonferrous materials from the shredding process, material handling and processing equipment, enhancements to our information technology infrastructure, improvements to our facilities’ environmental and safety infrastructure and normal equipment replacement and maintenance. We plan to invest up to $125 million in capital expenditures in fiscal 2012.
Environmental Matters

Impact of Legislation and Regulation

Compliance with environmental laws and regulations is a significant factor in our operations. Our businesses are subject to extensive local, state and federal environmental protection, health, safety and transportation laws and regulations relating to, among others:

The USU.S. Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”);

Remediation under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (“CERCLA”);

The discharge of materials and emissions into the air;

The prevention and remediation of soil and groundwater contamination;

The management and treatment of wastewater and storm water;

Global climate change;

The treatment, handling and/or disposal of solid waste and hazardous waste; and

The protection of our employees’ health and safety.


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These environmental laws regulate, among other things, the release and discharge of hazardous materials into the air, water and ground; exposure to hazardous materials; and the identification, storage, treatment, handling and disposal of hazardous materials. Environmental legislation and regulations have changed rapidly in recent years, and it is likely that we will be subject to even more stringent environmental standards in the future.

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Concern over climate change, including the impact of global warming, has led to significant USU.S. and international regulatory and legislative initiatives to limit greenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions. In 2007, the USU.S. Supreme Court ruled that the EPA was authorized to regulate carbon dioxide under the USU.S. Clean Air Act. As a consequence, the EPA initiated a series of regulatory efforts aimed at addressing greenhouse gases as pollutants, including finding that GHG emissions endanger public health, implementing mandatory GHG emission reporting requirements, setting carbon emission standards for light-duty vehicles and promulgating a New Source Review/Title V “tailoring rule” setting emissions thresholds beyond which stationary sources will require permits. Legislation has also been proposed in the USU.S. Congress to address GHG emissions and global climate change, including “cap and trade” programs, and some form of federal climate change legislation or additional federal regulation is possible. In addition, we are required to annually report our GHG emissions from our steel mill to the State of Oregon Department of Environmental Quality effective March 2010, and to the US EPA effective March 2011.EPA. A number of other states, including states in which we have operations and facilities, have considered, are considering or have already enacted legislation to develop information or address climate change and GHG emissions as well.

We

Although our objective is to maintain compliance with applicable environmental regulations, we have, in the past, been found not to be in compliance with certain environmental laws and regulations and have incurred liabilities, expenditures, fines and penalties associated with such violations. Our objective is to maintain compliance with applicable environmental regulations, andIn December 2000, we believewere notified by the EPA that we are materially in compliance with currently applicable environmental regulationsone of the potentially responsible parties that own or operate or formerly owned or operated sites which are part of or adjacent to the Portland Harbor Superfund site (see Note 1211 – Commitments and Contingencies in the notesNotes to the consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements in Part II, Item 8 of this report). In fiscal 2010,2011, capital expenditures related to ongoing environmental compliance were $13$14 million, and we expect to spend approximately $18$14 million on capital expenditures for ongoing environmental compliance in fiscal 2011.

2012.

Indirect Consequences of Future Legislation and Regulation

Increased regulation regarding climate change and GHG emissions could impose significant costs on our business and our customers and suppliers, including increased energy, capital equipment, environmental monitoring and reporting and other costs in order to comply with regulations concerning and limitations imposed on climate change and GHG emissions. The potential costs of allowances, offsets or credits that may be part of “cap and trade” programs or similar future regulatory measures are still uncertain. Any adopted future climate change and GHG regulations could negatively impact our ability (and that of our customers and suppliers) to compete with companies situated in areas not subject to such limitations. Furthermore, even without such regulation, increased awareness and any adverse publicity in the global marketplace about the GHGs emitted by companies in the metalmetals recycling and steel manufacturing industries could harm our reputation and reduce customer demand for our products.

GHG legislation and regulation is also expected to have an effect on the price of electricity, especially when generated using carbon-based fuels. As such,Accordingly, demand for SMB’s steel products could increase as its costs of production become more competitive, since they are manufactured using an EAF, which uses less energy than the blast furnaces of some of our competitors. Since the electricity supply for SMB includes a significant element of hydro-generated production, SMB’s energy costs are less likely to be impacted than those of our competitors using electricity generated by carbon-based fuels. In addition, demand for scrap metal may increase as a result of mills with blast furnaces seeking to maximize the scrap metal component of raw material infeed, as melting scrap metal involves less energy than is required for melting iron ore.

Since the use of recycled iron and steel instead of iron ore to make new steel results in savings in the consumption of energy, virgin materials and water and reduces mining wastes, we believe our recycled metal products position us to be more competitive in the future for business from companies wishing to reduce their carbon footprint and impact on the environment. In addition, our electric arc furnaces generateEAF generates fewer greenhouse gasGHG emissions than the traditional blast furnaces.

Physical Impacts of Climate Change on Our Costs and Operations

There has been public discussion that climate change may be associated with rising sea levels as well as extreme weather conditions such as rising sea levels and more intense hurricanes, thunderstorms, tornadostornadoes and snow or ice storms. Extreme weather conditions

12  /  Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010


may increase our costs or cause damage to our facilities, and any damage resulting from extreme weather may not be fully insured. As many of our recycling facilities are located near deep water ports, significantly rising sea levels may disrupt our ability to receive scrap metal, process the scrap metal through our mega-shredders and ship product to our customers. Our MRB and APB operations can also be impacted by severe weather conditions. Periods of extended adverse weather conditions may inhibit ourthe supply of scrap metal to MRB and SMB and end-of-life vehicles to APB which could cause us to fail to meet our sales commitments. In addition, ifsustained periods of increased temperature levels in the summer were to significantly increase for a sustained period in areas where our APB operations are located this could result in less customer traffic, thus resulting in reduced admissions and parts sales.

Employees
Employees

As of September 30, 2010,2011, we had 3,2374,090 full-time employees, consisting of 1,4912,161 employees at MRB, 1,1781,345 employees at APB, 413


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416 employees at SMB and 155168 corporate administrative employees. Of these employees, 832869 were covered by collective bargaining agreements. The SMB contract with the United Steelworkers of America, which covers 297302 of these employees, was ratified in June 2008 and will expire on March 31, 2012. We believe that in general our labor relations are good.

Available Information

Our internet address iswww.schnitzersteel.com. The content of our website is not incorporated by reference into this Annual Report on Form 10-K. We make all filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) available on our website, free of charge, under the caption “Investors – SEC Filings.” Included in these filings areFilings” our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, and any amendments to those reports, which are available as soon as reasonably practicable after electronically filing with or furnishing such materials to the SECSecurities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) pursuant to Sections 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

The publicFrom time to time, we may readuse our website as a channel of distribution of material company information. Financial and copy any materials that are filed withother material information regarding our Company is routinely posted on and accessible at http://www.schnitzersteel.com/investors.aspx. In addition, you may automatically receive e-mail alerts and other information about our Company by enrolling your e-mail address by visiting the SEC“E-mail Alerts” section at the SEC’s Public Reference Room located at 100 F Street NE, Washington, DC 20549. The public may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The SEC also maintains electronic versions of reports on its website,www.sec.govhttp://www.schnitzersteel.com/investors.aspx.

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  13


ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS

Described below are risks, which are categorized as “Risk Factors Relating to Our Business,” “Risk Factors Relating to the Regulatory Environment” and “Risk Factors Relating to Our Employees,” that could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, and financial condition and cash flows or could cause actual results to differ materially from the results contemplated by the forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report. See “Forward-Looking Statements” that precedes Part I of this report. Additional risks and uncertainties that we are unaware of or that we currently deem immaterial may in the future have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition and financial condition.

cash flows.

Risk Factors Relating to Our Business

Potential costs related to the environmental cleanup of Portland Harbor may be material to our financial position and liquidity

We have been

In December 2000, we were notified by the EPA under the CERCLA that we are a potentially responsible party (“PRP”) that owns or operates or formerly owned or operated sites which are part of or adjacent to the Portland Harbor Superfund site (the “Site”). The precise nature and extent of any cleanup of the Site, the parties to be involved, the process to be followed for any cleanup and the allocation of the costs for any cleanup among responsible parties have not yet been determined. A group of PRPs is currently conducting a remedial investigation and feasibility study (“RI/FS”) to identify and characterize the contamination at the Site and develop alternative approaches to remediation of the contamination. A separate process to allocate the costs of the RI/FS and the ultimate remedy is also currently underway. The EPA has indicated that it expects to issue a record of decision that will discuss remedial alternatives for the Site sometime in 2012.2013. Separately, the natural resource damages trustees for the Site are conducting a process to determine the amount of natural resource damages at the Site and identify the persons potentially liable for such damages. It is currently unclear to what extent we will be liable for environmental costs or damages associated with the Site or for natural resource damage claims or third party contribution or damage claims with respect to the Site; however, given the size of the Site, the costs to date of the RI/FS and the nature of the conditions identified to date, the total cost of the investigations, remediation and natural resource damages claims are likely to be substantial. Significant cash outflows in the future related to the Site could reduce the amount of our borrowing capacity that could otherwise be used for investment in capital expenditures and acquisitions. Any material liabilities incurred in the future related to the Site could result in our failure to maintain compliance with certain covenants in our debt agreements. Because there has not been a determination of the total investigation costs, the remediation that will be required, the amount of natural resource damages or how the costs of the ongoing investigations and any remedy and natural resource damages will be allocated among the PRPs, it is not presentlycurrently possible to estimate the costs which we are likely to incur in connection with the Site, although such costs could be significant and material to our financial position, results of operations, cash flows and cash flows.liquidity. See Contingencies“ContingenciesEnvironmentalEnvironmental” in Note 1211 – Commitments and Contingencies in the notesNotes to the consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements in Part II, Item 8 of this report.

Consolidation in the steel industry may reduce demand for our products

There has been a significant amount of consolidation in the steel industry in recent years that has included steel mills acquiring steel fabricators. This activity has been accelerated by the recent economic downturn where steel mills have acquired these customers to ensure demand for their products. If any of our significant customers were to be acquired by competing steel mills, this could reduce the demand for our products and force us to lower our prices, reducing our revenues, or to reduce production, which could increase our unit costs and have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Significant decreases in scrap metal prices may adversely impact our operating results

The timing and magnitude of the cycles in the industries in which we operate are difficult to predict and are influenced by different economic conditions in domestic (where we typically acquire our raw materials) and foreign (where we typically sell a significant portion of our products) markets. Purchase prices for autobodies and scrap metal and selling prices for scrap and recycled metal are volatile and beyond our control. While we attempt to respond to changing recycled metal selling prices through adjustments to our metal purchase prices, our ability to do so is limited

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by competitive and other market factors. A significant reduction in selling prices for recycled metal may adversely impact both our operating income and our ability to recover purchase costs from end customers.

Changes in the availability or price of raw materials and end of life vehicles could restrict our ability to meetreduce our sales commitments

Our businesses require certain materials that are sourced from third party suppliers. Although our cross-divisional synergies allow us to be our own source for some raw materials, particularly with respect to scrap metal for SMB, we rely on other suppliers as well as industryfor most of our raw material needs. Industry supply conditions generally which involvesinvolve risks, including the possibility of shortages of raw materials, increases in raw material costs and reduced control over delivery schedules. We procure our scrap inventory from numerous sources. These suppliers generally are not bound by long-term contracts and have no obligation to sell scrap metal to us. In periods of low scrap metal prices, suppliers may elect to hold scrap metal to wait for higher prices or intentionally slow their metal collection activities. If a substantial number of suppliers cease selling scrap metal to us, we will be unable to recycle metal at desired levels, and our results of operations and financial condition could be materially adversely affected. A slowdown

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of industrial production in the U.S. may also reduce the supply of industrial grades of metal to the metals recycling industry, resulting in our having less recyclable metal available to process and market. In addition, increased foreign demand for scrap metal due to economic expansion in developing countries may result in increased competition for available domestic scrap metal. Failure to obtain a steady supply of scrap material could both adversely impact our ability to meet sales commitments and reduce our operating margins. Failure to obtain an adequate supply of end-of-life vehicles could adversely impact our ability to attract customers and charge admission fees and reduce our parts sales. Failure to obtain raw materials, such as alloys used in the steel-making process, could adversely impact our ability to make steel to the specifications of our customers.

Significant decreases in scrap metal prices may adversely impact our operating results
The timing and magnitude of the cycles in the industries in which we operate are difficult to predict and are influenced by different economic conditions in the domestic market, where we typically acquire our raw materials, and foreign markets, where we typically sell the majority of our products. Purchase prices for autobodies and scrap metal and selling prices for scrap metal are volatile and beyond our control. While we attempt to respond to changing scrap metal selling prices through adjustments to our metal purchase prices, our ability to do so is limited by competitive and other market factors. As a result, we may not be able to reduce our metal purchase prices to offset a sudden reduction in scrap metal sales prices, which may adversely impact our operating income and cash flows.
Acquisitions and integration of acquired businesses may result in operating difficulties and other unintended consequences
We have completed a number of recent acquisitions and expect to continue making acquisitions of complementary businesses to enable us to enhance our customer base and grow our revenues. Execution of our acquisition strategy involves a number of risks, including:
Difficulty integrating the acquired businesses’ personnel and operations;
Potential loss of key employees or customers of the acquired business;
Difficulties in realizing anticipated cost savings, efficiencies and synergies;
Inaccurate assessment of or undisclosed liabilities;
Inability to maintain uniform standards, controls and procedures; and
Managing the growth of a larger company.
If we do not successfully execute our acquisition strategy and the acquired businesses do not perform as projected, our financial condition and results of operations could be materially adversely affected.
Goodwill impairment charges may adversely affect our operating results
Goodwill is generated in connection with our acquisition strategy and represents the excess purchase price over the fair value of net assets acquired in business combinations. We test our goodwill balances for impairment on an annual basis and if events occur or circumstances change that indicate that the fair value of one or more of our reporting units may be below its carrying amount. In determining fair value, we use an income approach based on the present value of expected future cash flows utilizing a market-based weighted average cost of capital. Given that market prices of our reporting units are not readily available, we make various estimates and assumptions in determining the estimated fair values of the reporting units, including forecasts of future sales and operating costs, prices, capital expenditures, working capital requirements, discount rates, growth rates and general market conditions. Fair value determinations require considerable judgment and are sensitive to inherent uncertainties and changes in the factors described above. A sustained decline in the quoted market prices of our stock could denote a triggering event indicating that the fair value of goodwill may be impaired. As a result of our testing to evaluate the recoverability of goodwill, we may assess the need for an impairment charge, which could have an adverse effect on our results of operations.
Uncertain economic conditions may cause customers to be unable to fulfill their contractual obligations

We enter into export ferrous sales contracts preceded by negotiations that include fixing price, quantity, shipping terms and other contractual elements.terms. Upon finalization of these terms and satisfactory completion of other contractual contingencies, the customer typically opens a letter of credit to satisfy its obligation under the contract prior to our shipment of the cargo. Although not considered normal course of business, during uncertain economic conditions, we are at risk on consummating the transaction until successful completion ofthe customer successfully opens the letter of credit. As a result, customersCustomers may not be able to fulfill their contractual obligations or open letters of credit in times of illiquid market conditions. As of August 31, 2011 and 2010, 44%and 2009, 43% and 49%, respectively, of our trade accounts receivable balance was covered by letters of credit.

Fluctuations

Increases in the value of the USU.S. dollar relative to other currencies may reduce the demand for our products

A significant portion of MRB’s revenues and operating income earned is generated from sales to foreign customers, which are denominated in U.S. dollars, including customers located in Asia, Africa and Europe. A strong USU.S. dollar would make our products more expensive for non-USnon-U.S. customers, which could negatively impact export sales. A strong USU.S. dollar would also make imported metal products less expensive, resulting in an increase in imports of scrap metal, scrap substitutes and steel products into the US.U.S. As a result, our finished steel

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products, which are made in the US,U.S., may become more expensive for our U.S. customers relative to imported raw metalsteel products.
We are exposed to translation and transaction risks associated with fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. Hedging instruments may not be effective in mitigating such risks and may expose us to losses or limit our potential gains.
Our operations in Canada expose us to translation and transaction risks associated with fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates as compared to the U.S. dollar, our reporting currency. As a result, we are subject to foreign currency exchange risks due to exchange rate movements in connection with the translation of the operating costs and the assets and liabilities of our foreign operations into our functional currency for inclusion in our Consolidated Financial Statements.
We are also exposed to foreign currency exchange transaction risk. As part of our risk management program, we may use financial instruments, including foreign currency exchange forward contracts. While intended to reduce the effects of fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates, these instruments may not be effective in reducing all risks related to such fluctuations and may limit our potential gains or expose us to losses. Although we do not enter into these instruments for trading purposes or speculation, and our management believes all such instruments are entered into as hedges of underlying physical transactions, these instruments are dependent on timely performance by our counterparties. Should our counterparties to such instruments or the sponsors of the exchanges through which these transactions are offered fail to honor their obligations due to financial distress or otherwise, we would be exposed to potential losses or the inability to recover anticipated gains from the transactions covered by these instruments.
Potential limitations on our ability to access capital resources may restrict our ability to operate
Our operations are capital intensive. For the five-year period ended August 31, 2011, our total capital expenditures, excluding acquisitions, were approximately $393 million. Our business also requires substantial expenditures for routine maintenance. While we expect that our cash requirements, including the funding of capital expenditures, debt service and any contingencies, will be financed by internally generated funds or from borrowings under our unsecured committed bank credit facility, there can be no assurance that this will be the case. Additional acquisitions could require financing from external sources.
Although we believe we have adequate access to contractually committed borrowings, we could be adversely affected if our banks refused to honor their contractual commitments or ceased lending. While we believe the lending institutions participating in our credit arrangements are financially capable, recent events in the global credit markets, including the failure, takeover or rescue by various government entities of major financial institutions, have created uncertainty of credit availability to an extent not experienced in recent decades. Failure to access our credit facilities could restrict our ability to fund operations, make capital expenditures or execute acquisitions.
The agreement governing our bank credit facility imposes certain restrictions on our business and contains financial covenants
Our unsecured committed bank credit agreement contains certain restrictions on our business, including our ability to create liens, enter into transactions with affiliates, acquire and dispose of businesses, guarantee debt, and consolidate or merge. These restrictions may affect our ability to operate our business and may limit our ability to take advantage of potential business opportunities as they arise. Our bank credit agreement also requires that we maintain certain financial and other covenants, including a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio and a maximum leverage ratio.  Our ability to comply with these covenants may be affected by events beyond our control, including prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions. Our failure to comply with any of these restrictions or financial covenants could result in an event of default under the bank credit agreement, and permit our lenders to declare all amounts borrowed from them to be due and payable, together with accrued and unpaid interest, which we may not be able to do at terms acceptable to us, or at all.
Consolidation in the steel industry may reduce demand for our products
There has been a significant amount of consolidation in the steel industry in recent years that has included steel mills acquiring steel fabricators to ensure demand for their products. If any of our significant remaining customers were to be acquired by competing steel mills, this could reduce the demand for our products and force us to lower our prices, reducing our revenues, or to reduce production, which could increase our unit costs and have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Increases in imports of foreign steel into the USU.S. may reduce domestic demand for our products

Economic expansion in China and other foreign countries has affected the availability, and increased the price volatility, of recycled metal and steel products. Expansions and contractions in these economies can significantly affect the price of commodities used and sold by our business, as well as the price of finished steel products. Additionally, in a number of foreign countries, such as China, steel producers are generally government-owned and may therefore make production decisions based on political or other factors that do not reflect market conditions. Disruptions in foreign markets from excess steel production may encourage importers to target the USU.S. with excess capacity at aggressive prices, and existing trade laws and regulations may be inadequate to prevent unfair trade practices, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations. IfAlthough

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trade regulations restrict the importation of certain products, if foreign steel production significantly exceeds consumption in those countries, imports of steel products into the USU.S. could increase, resulting in lower volumes and selling prices for SMB’s steel products.

Failure to realize expected benefits from investments in processing and manufacturing technology may impact our operating results
We make significant investments in processing and manufacturing technology improvements aimed at increasing the efficiency and capabilities of our businesses and to maximize our economies of scale. Failure to realize the anticipated benefits and generate adequate returns on such capital improvement projects may have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and cash flows.
Reliance on third party shipping companies may restrict our ability to ship our products

MRB and SMB generally rely on third parties to handle and transport their raw materials to their production facilities and finished products to end users. DueDespite our practice of utilizing a diversified group of suppliers, due to factors beyond our control, including changes in fuel prices, political events, governmental regulation of transportation, changes in market rates, carrier availability and disruptions in transportation infrastructure, our suppliersthird party shipping companies may be forced to increase their charges for transportation services or

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  15


otherwise reduce the availability of their vehicles or ships, and thus we may not be able to transport our products in a timely and cost-effective manner, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations and may harm our reputation.

Equipment upgrades and equipment failures may lead to production curtailments or shutdowns

Our recycling and manufacturing processes depend upon critical pieces of equipment, including shredders and furnaces, which may be out of service occasionally for scheduled upgrades or maintenance. Our equipment is also subject to failure and the risk of catastrophic loss due to unanticipated events such as fires, accidents or violent weather conditions. As a result, we may experience interruptions in our processing and production capabilities, which could inhibit our ability to meet our sales commitments and thus have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

The cost and availability of electricity and natural gas are subject to volatile market conditions and may restrict our ability to manufacture our products

We rely on third parties for our supply of energy resources that are consumed in the manufacturing of our products. The prices for and availability of electricity, natural gas and other energy resources are subject to volatile market conditions which can be affected by weather conditions and political and economic factors that are beyond our control. Disruptions in the supply of energy resources could impair our ability to process and manufacture our products for our customers or result in increases in our energy costs, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Goodwill impairment charges may adversely affect our operating results

We test our goodwill balances for impairment on an annual basis and if events occur or circumstances change that would reduce the fair value of the reporting segment below the reporting segment’s carrying amount. In determining fair value, we use an income approach based on the present value of expected future cash flows utilizing a market-based weighted average cost of capital. Given that market prices of our reporting segments are not readily available, we make various estimates and assumptions in determining the estimated fair values of the reporting segments, including forecasts of future sales and operating costs, prices, capital expenditures, working capital requirements, discount rates, growth rates and general market conditions. Fair value determinations require considerable judgment and are sensitive to inherent uncertainties and changes in the factors described above. However, in light of current economic conditions, impairments to one or more of our reporting segments could occur in interim periods, whether or not connected to the annual goodwill impairment analysis. A sustained decline in the quoted market prices of our stock could denote a triggering event indicating that the fair value of goodwill may be impaired. At that time, additional testing would be performed to evaluate the recoverability of goodwill and assess the need for an impairment charge, which could have an adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Inability to integrate future acquisitions may adversely impact our operating results

We have completed a number of recent acquisitions and expect to continue making acquisitions of, and strategic alliances with, complementary businesses to enable us to enhance our customer base and grow our revenues. Execution of this strategy involves a number of risks, including:

Inaccurate assessment of or undisclosed liabilities;

Difficulty integrating the acquired businesses’ personnel and operations;

Potential loss of key employees or customers of the acquired business;

Difficulties in realizing anticipated cost savings, efficiencies and synergies;

Competition for such acquisitions and alliances;

Inability to maintain uniform standards, controls and procedures; and

Managing the growth of a larger company.

Failure to successfully integrate acquisitions could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

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Potential limitations on our ability to access credit facilities may restrict our ability to operate

Although we believe we have adequate access to contractually committed borrowings, we could be adversely affected if our banks refused to honor their contract commitments or ceased lending. While we believe the lending institutions participating in our credit arrangements are financially capable, recent events in the global credit markets, including the failure, takeover or rescue by various government entities of major financial institutions, have created uncertainty of credit availability to an extent not experienced in recent decades. Failure to access our credit facilities could restrict our ability to fund operations or make strategic acquisitions.

Product liability claims may adversely impact our operating results

We could inadvertently acquire radioactive scrap metal that could potentially end up in mixed scrap metal shipped to consumers worldwide. Although we have invested in radiation detection equipment in certainthe majority of our locations, including the facilities from which we ship directly to address this risk,customers, failure to detect radioactive scrap metal remains a possibility. Even though we maintain insurance to address the risk of this failure in detection, there can be no assurance that the insurance coverage would be adequate or will continue to be available on acceptable terms. In addition, if we fail to meet contractual requirements for a product, we may be subject to product warranty costs and claims. These costs are generally not insured and claims could both have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations and harm our reputation.

Increases in consumer fuel costs and decreases in the miles they drive may decrease demand for our auto parts

In times of rapid increases in crude oil and gasoline prices, motorists may reduce the amount of travel by automobile. As the economy slows, consumer confidence weakens and fuel costs become a more significant factor in buying decisions and discretionary driving. Over time, significantly reduced driving leads to fewer accidents and lower demand for replacement parts, which may impact APB’s parts sales.

Risk Factors Relating to the Regulatory Environment

Environmental regulations may cause us to incur significant compliance costs

Compliance with environmental laws and regulations is a significant factor in our business. We are subject to local, state and federal environmental laws and regulations in the USU.S. and other countries relating to, among other matters:

Waste disposal;

Air emissions;

Waste water and storm water management and treatment;

Soil and groundwater contamination remediation;

Global climate change;

The discharge, storage, handling and disposal of hazardous materials; and

Employee health and safety.

We are also required to obtain environmental permits from governmental authorities for certain operations. Violation of or failure to obtain permits or comply with these laws or regulations could result in our business being fined or otherwise sanctioned by regulators or becoming subject to litigation by private parties. Our operations use, handle and generate hazardous substances. In addition, previous operations by others at facilities that we currently or formerly owned, operated or otherwise used may have caused contamination from hazardous substances. As a result, we are exposed to possible claims under environmental laws and regulations, especially for the remediation of waterways and soil or groundwater contamination. These laws can impose liability for the cleanup of hazardous substances even if the owner or operator was neither aware of nor responsible for the release of the hazardous substances. We have, in the past, been found not to be in compliance with certain of these laws and regulations, and have incurred liabilities, expenditures, fines and penalties associated with such violations. Although we believe that we are currently in material compliance with all applicable environmental laws and regulations, future environmental compliance costs may increase because of new laws and regulations and changing interpretations by regulatory authorities, uncertainty regarding adequate pollution control levels, the future costs of pollution control technology and issues related to global climate change. Environmental compliance costs and potential environmental liabilities could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.


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Climate change may adversely impact our facilities and our ongoing operations

The potential physical impacts of climate change on our operations are highly uncertain and will be particular to the geographic circumstances. These may include significant rising sea levels at our deep water port facilities, changing storm patterns and intensities, and changing temperature levels. As many of our recycling facilities are located near deep water ports, rising sea levels may disrupt our ability to receive scrap metal, process the scrap metal through our mega-shredders and to ship productproducts to our customers. Our MRB and APB operations are also dependent upon weather conditions. Periods of extended adverse weather conditions may inhibit ourthe supply of scrap metal to MRB and SMB and end-of-life vehicles to APB which could cause us to fail to meet our sales commitments. In addition, ifsustained periods of increased temperature levels in the summer were to significantly increase for a sustained period in areas where our APB operations are located this could result in less customer traffic, thus resulting in reduced admissions and parts sales.

Our effective tax rate

Governmental agencies may refuse to grant or renew our licenses and permits, thus restricting our ability to operate
We conduct certain of our operations subject to licenses, permits and approvals from state and local governments. Governmental agencies often resist the establishment of certain types of facilities in their communities, including auto parts facilities. In addition, from time to time, both the U.S. and foreign governments impose regulations and restrictions on trade in the markets in which we operate. In some countries, governments can require us to apply for certificates or registration before allowing shipment of recycled metal to customers in those countries. There can be no assurance that future approvals, licenses and permits will be granted or that we will be able to maintain and renew the approvals, licenses and permits we currently hold. Failure to obtain these approvals could increase if our earnings fromcause us to limit or discontinue operations in Puerto Rico are taxed at higher rates

We currently calculate the taxesthese locations or prevent us from developing or acquiring new facilities, which could have a material adverse effect on our earnings in Puerto Rico to include benefits from industrial tax exemptions available to companies doing business there. Should it be determined by Puerto Rican taxing authorities that we are not entitled to all or a portion of these exemptions, the taxes on our earnings from operations in Puerto Ricofinancial condition and our consolidated effective tax rate could increase, which would adversely impact our results of operations and financial position.

operations.

Compliance with existing and new greenhouse gas emission regulations may adversely impact our operating results

Increased regulation regarding climate change and GHG emissions could impose significant costs on our business and our customers and suppliers, including increased energy, capital equipment, environmental monitoring and reporting and other costs in order to comply with regulations concerning and limitations imposed on climate change and GHG emissions. The potential costs of allowances, offsets or credits that may be part of “cap and trade” programs or similar future regulatory measures are still uncertain. Any adopted future climate change and GHG regulations could negatively impact our ability (and that of our customers and suppliers) to compete with companies situated in areas not subject to such limitations. Until the timing, scope and extent of any future regulation becomes known, we cannot predict the effect on our financial condition, operating performance or ability to compete. Furthermore, even without such regulation, increased awareness and any adverse publicity in the global marketplace about the GHGs emitted by companies in the metal recycling and steel manufacturing industries could harm our reputation and reduce customer demand for our products. See “Business - Environmental MattersMatters” in Part I, Item 1 of this report for further detail.

Governmental agencies may refuse to grant or renew our licenses and permits, thus restricting our ability to operate

We conduct certain of our operations subject to licenses, permits and approvals from state and local governments. Governmental agencies often resist the establishment of certain types of facilities in their communities, including auto parts facilities. In addition, from time to time, both the US and foreign governments impose regulations and restrictions on trade in the markets in which we operate. In some countries, governments can require us to apply for certificates or registration before allowing shipment of recycled metal to customers in those countries. There can be no assurance that future approvals, licenses and permits will be granted or that we will be able to maintain and renew the approvals, licenses and permits we currently hold. Failure to obtain these approvals could cause us to limit or discontinue operations in these locations or prevent us from developing or acquiring new facilities, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.

Risk Factors Relating to Our Employees

Reliance on employees subject to collective bargaining may restrict our ability to operate

Approximately 26%21% of our full-time employees are represented by unions under collective bargaining agreements.agreements, including substantially all of the manufacturing employees at our SMB steel manufacturing facility. As these agreements expire, we may not be able to negotiate extensions or replacements of such agreements on acceptable terms. Any failure to reach an agreement with one or more of our unions may result in strikes, lockouts or other labor actions, including work slowdowns or stoppages, which could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.

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The underfunded status of our multiemployer pension plans may cause us to increase our contributions to the plans

As discussed in Note 15 – Employee Benefits in the notesNotes to the consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements in Part II, Item 8 of this report, we have been notified that the multiemployer plan benefiting union employees of SMB has an accumulated funding deficiency (i.e., a failure to satisfy the minimum funding requirements) for the current plan year and is therefore “in critical status.”in a certified Red Zone Status as defined by the Pension Protection Act of 2006 as of August 31, 2011. Because the plan is in “critical status,”Red Zone Status, it is required to adopt a rehabilitation plan, which may involve contribution increases, benefit reductions or a combination of the two. At this time, we are not required to make surcharge payments as we are already signatory to an agreement that requires annual six percent contribution increases. Our withdrawal liability, which would be triggered if we were to withdraw or partially withdraw from the plan, was calculated by the plan actuary to be $28 million as of September 30, 2009. Because we have no current intention of withdrawing from the plan, we have not recognized a withdrawal liability for this contingency.in our consolidated financial statements. However, if such a liability were triggered, it wouldcould have a material adverse effect on our results of operations and cash flows. Our contributions to this plan could also increase as a result of a diminished contribution base due to the insolvency or withdrawal of other employers who currently contribute to the plan, the inability or failure of withdrawing employers to pay their withdrawal liability or other funding deficiencies, as we would need to fund the retirement obligations of these employers.

Approximately 60% of our multiemployer pension plan contributions are made to the Western Independent Shops Pension Trust (the “WISP Trust”) for the benefit of union employees of SMB. In 2004, the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) approved a seven-year extension of the period over which the WISP Trust may amortize unfunded liabilities, conditioned upon maintenance of certain minimum funding levels. Based on the actuarial valuation for the WISP Trust as of October 1, 2009 (the latest available actuarial information), the funded percentage of the WISP Trust (based on the ratio of the market value of assets to the accumulated benefits liability (present value of accrued benefits)) was 65.4%, which is below the targeted funding ratio specified in the agreement with the IRS. As a result, the WISP Trust is in the process of seeking relief from the specified funding requirement from the IRS. If the WISP Trust cannot obtain relief, revocation by the IRS of the amortization extension retroactively to the 2002 plan year could occur and result in a material liability for our share of the resulting funding deficiency, the extent of which currently cannot be estimated.

ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
None.


16

There are currently no unresolved issues with respect to any SEC staff written comments that were received 180 days or more before the end of fiscal 2010 that relate to our periodic or current reports under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934.

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ITEM 2. PROPERTIES

Our facilities and administrative offices by type, including their total acreage, were as follows as of August 31, 2010:

Division

  

No. of

Facilities

  Acreage
    Leased  Owned  Total

Corporate offices – Domestic

  2  1  0  1

Metal Recycling Business:

        

Domestic:

        

Collection and processing

  37  26  652  678

Collection

  6  2  21  23

Inactive

  5  0  24  24

Auto Parts Business:

        

Domestic(1)

  42  563  108  671

Foreign(2)

  3  46  0  46

Steel Manufacturing Business:

        

Domestic:

        

Steel mill and administrative offices

  2  0  85  85

Inactive

  2  2  51  53
            

Total company:

        

Domestic

  96  594  941  1,535

Foreign(2)

  3  46  0  46
            

Total

  99  640  941  1,581
            

2011
:
Division
No. of
Facilities
 Acreage
Leased Owned Total
Corporate offices – Domestic2
 1
 
 1
Metal Recycling Business:       
Domestic:       
Collection and processing42
 36
 712
 748
Collection6
 3
 21
 24
Inactive5
 8
 11
 19
Foreign:(2)
       
Collection and processing5
 40
 4
 44
Collection3
 22
 2
 24
Inactive2
 10
 
 10
Other1
 12
 
 12
Auto Parts Business:       
Domestic:(1)
       
Administrative offices and other3
 5
 
 5
Stores47
 612
 107
 719
Inactive1
 
 1
 1
Foreign stores(2)
3
 46
 
 46
Steel Manufacturing Business:       
Domestic:       
Steel mill and administrative offices2
 
 85
 85
Inactive1
 
 51
 51
Total company:       
Domestic109
 665
 988
 1,653
Foreign(2)
14
 130
 6
 136
Total(3)
123
 795
 994
 1,789
_____________________________
(1)

We jointly own 36 acres in California at three of our sites with minority interest partners.

(2)

ForeignAll foreign facilities are located in Canada.

(3)For long-lived assets by geography, see Note 20 – Segments in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part II, Item 8 of this report.


We consider all properties, both owned and leased, to be well-maintained, in good operating condition and suitable and adequate to carry on our business.


ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

From time to time, we are involved in various litigation matters that arise in the normalordinary course of business involving normal and routine claims. Environmentalclaims, including environmental compliance issues representmatters. Except in connection with our status as a significant portionpotentially responsible party with respect to the Portland Harbor Superfund Site, which is described in Note 11 – Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part II, Item 8 of those claims. Managementthis report and is incorporated into this item, management currently believes that the ultimate outcome of these proceedings, individually or in the aggregate, will not have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations, cash flows or business. For additional information regarding litigation to which we are a party, which

ITEM 4. [REMOVED AND RESERVED]

EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF THE REGISTRANT
Information about our executive officers is incorporated into this item, see Note 12 – Commitments and Contingencies in the notes to the consolidated financial statements inby reference from Part II,III, Item 810 of this annual report.


ITEM 4. RESERVED17

20 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 20102011



PART II


ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

Our Class A common stock is listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market (“NASDAQ”) under the symbol SCHN. There were 217203 holders of record of Class A common stock on October 12, 2010. The2011. Our Class A common stock has been trading since November 16, 1993. The following table sets forth the high and low trading stock prices reported at the close of trading on NASDAQ and the dividends paid per share for the periods indicated.

   Fiscal 2010 
   High Price   Low Price   Dividends Per Share 

First Quarter

  $59.00    $41.59    $0.017  

Second Quarter

  $56.95    $40.03    $0.017  

Third Quarter

  $60.12    $43.46    $0.017  

Fourth Quarter

  $49.53    $37.00    $0.017  
   Fiscal 2009 
   High Price   Low Price   Dividends Per Share 

First Quarter

  $67.84    $16.45    $0.017  

Second Quarter

  $47.70    $22.52    $0.017  

Third Quarter

  $55.92    $23.35    $0.017  

Fourth Quarter

  $63.98    $44.75    $0.017  

 Fiscal 2011
 High Price Low Price Dividends Per Share
First Quarter$58.00
 $45.21
 $0.017
Second Quarter$69.43
 $58.00
 $0.017
Third Quarter$67.14
 $54.32
 $0.017
Fourth Quarter$59.41
 $38.49
 $0.017
 Fiscal 2010
 High Price Low Price Dividends Per Share
First Quarter$59.00
 $41.59
 $0.017
Second Quarter$56.95
 $40.03
 $0.017
Third Quarter$60.12
 $43.46
 $0.017
Fourth Quarter$49.53
 $37.00
 $0.017

Our Class B common stock is not publicly traded. There were 1244 holders of record of Class B common stock on October 12, 2010.

2011.

Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities

Pursuant to a share repurchase program as amended in 2001 and 2006, we were authorized to repurchase up to 6 million shares of our Class A common stock when management deems such repurchases to be appropriate. In November 2008, our Board of Directors approved an increase in the shares authorized for repurchase by 3 million, to 9 million.million. Prior to fiscal 2010,2011, we had repurchased approximately 5.15.5 million shares of our Class A common stock under the program. In fiscal 2010,2011, we repurchased a total of 412,994254,332 shares of our Class A common stock under this program, leaving approximately 3.53.2 million shares available for repurchase under existing authorizations.

The share repurchase program does not require us to acquire any specific number of shares, and we may suspend, extend or terminate the program at any time without prior notice and the program may be executed through open-market purchases, privately negotiated transactions or utilizing Rule 10b5-110(b)5-1 programs. We evaluate long- and short-range forecasts as well as anticipated sources and uses of cash before determining the course of action that would best enhance shareholder value.

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  21


During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2010,2011, we repurchased 412,994254,332 shares of our Class A common stock in open-market transactions at a cost of $17 million.$10 million. The table below presents a summary of our share repurchases during the quarter ended August 31, 2010:

Period  

Total Number

of Shares
Purchased

   

Average

Price Paid

per Share

   

Total Number

of Shares
Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced
Plans or Programs

   

Maximum Number

of Shares that may
yet be Purchased
Under the Plans or
Programs

 

June 1, 2010 – June 30, 2010

   0    $0     0     3,864,290  

July 1, 2010 – July 31, 2010

   412,994    $41.53     412,994     3,451,296  

August 1, 2010 – August 31, 2010

   0    $0     0     3,451,296  
              

Total Fourth Quarter

   412,994    $41.53     412,994    

2011:

Period
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased
 
Average
Price Paid
per Share
 
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced
Plans or Programs
 
Maximum Number
of Shares that may
yet be Purchased
Under the Plans or
Programs
June 1, 2011 – June 30, 2011
 
 
 3,451,296
July 1, 2011 – July 31, 2011
 
 
 3,451,296
August 1, 2011 – August 31, 2011254,332
 $40.51
 254,332
 3,196,964
Total Fourth Quarter254,332
   254,332
  



18 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011

Table of Contents

Performance Graph

The following graph and related information compares cumulative total shareholder return on our Class A common stock for the five-year period from September 1, 20052006 through August 31, 20102011 with the cumulative total return for the same period of (i) the S&P 500 Index, (ii) the S&P Steel Index and (iii) the NASDAQ Composite Index. These comparisons assume an investment of $100 at the commencement of the period and that all dividends are reinvested. The stock performance outlined in the performance graph below is not necessarily indicative of our future performance, and we do not endorse any predictions as to future stock performance.

   Year ended August 31, 
   2005     2006     2007     2008     2009     2010  

Schnitzer Steel Industries

  $100    $111    $205    $240    $190    $156  

S&P 500

   100     109     125     111     91     96  

S&P Steel Index

   100     172     238     239     142     146  

NASDAQ

   100     102     122     112     96     102  


 Year ended August 31,
 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
Schnitzer Steel Industries(1)
$100
 $184
 $216
 $171
 $140
 $144
S&P 500100
 115
 102
 84
 88
 104
S&P Steel Index100
 138
 139
 83
 85
 90
NASDAQ100
 120
 110
 94
 100
 123
_____________________________
(1)Because we operate in three distinct but related businesses, we have no direct market peer issuers.

2219 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 20102011


Table of Contents

ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

   Year ended August 31,
   2010  2009  2008  2007  2006

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA:

       

(in thousands, except per share and dividend data)

       

Revenues

  $2,301,240   $1,787,230   $3,516,950   $2,462,077  $1,767,832

Operating income (loss)

  $125,897   $(51,124 $403,235   $211,959  $174,093

Income (loss) from continuing operations

  $84,508   $(27,149 $254,653   $133,974  $145,147

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax(1)

  $(13,832 $(4,214 $(613 $1,015  $615

Net income (loss) attributable to SSI

  $66,750   $(32,229 $248,683   $131,334  $143,068

Income (loss) per share from continuing operations attributable to SSI (diluted)

  $2.86   $(0.99 $8.63   $4.29  $4.63

Net income (loss) per share attributable to SSI (diluted)

  $2.37   $(1.14 $8.61   $4.32  $4.65

Dividends declared per common share

  $0.068   $0.068   $0.068   $0.068  $0.068

OTHER DATA:

       

Shipments (in thousands)(2):

       

Recycled ferrous metal (tons)(3)

   4,231    4,189    5,197    5,504   4,561

Recycled nonferrous metal (pounds)

   478,486    397,056    439,470    383,086   301,610

Finished steel products (tons)

   444    381    776    710   703

Average net selling price(2,4):

       

Recycled ferrous metal (per ton)

  $328   $264   $436   $267  $218

Recycled nonferrous metal (per pound)

  $0.83   $0.61   $1.03   $1.02  $0.87

Finished steel products (per ton)

  $587   $617   $728   $575  $528

Number of auto parts stores(1)

   45    39    38    35   34
   August 31,
   2010  2009  2008  2007  2006

BALANCE SHEET DATA (in thousands):

       

Total assets

  $1,343,418   $1,268,233   $1,554,853   $1,151,414  $1,044,724

Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of current maturities

  $99,240   $110,414   $158,933   $124,079  $102,829

 Year ended August 31,
 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA:         
(in thousands, except per share and dividend data)         
Revenues$3,459,194
 $2,301,240
 $1,787,230
 $3,516,950
 $2,462,077
Operating income (loss)$185,964
 $125,897
 $(51,124) $403,235
 $211,959
Income (loss) from continuing operations$123,637
 $84,508
 $(27,149) $254,653
 $133,974
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax(1)
$(101) $(13,832) $(4,214) $(613) $1,015
Net income (loss) attributable to SSI$118,355
 $66,750
 $(32,229) $248,683
 $131,334
Income (loss) per share from continuing operations attributable to SSI (diluted)$4.24
 $2.86
 $(0.99) $8.63
 $4.29
Net income (loss) per share attributable to SSI (diluted)$4.23
 $2.37
 $(1.14) $8.61
 $4.32
Dividends declared per common share$0.068
 $0.068
 $0.068
 $0.068
 $0.068
OTHER DATA:         
Shipments (in thousands)(2):
         
Recycled ferrous metal (tons)(3)
5,329
 4,231
 4,189
 4,753
 4,292
Recycled nonferrous metal (pounds)568,560
 478,486
 397,056
 439,470
 383,086
Finished steel products (tons)439
 444
 381
 776
 710
Average net selling price(2)(4):
         
Recycled ferrous metal (per ton)$416
 $328
 $264
 $436
 $267
Recycled nonferrous metal (per pound)$1.06
 $0.83
 $0.61
 $1.03
 $1.02
Finished steel products (per ton)$697
 $587
 $617
 $728
 $575
Number of auto parts stores(1)50
 45
 39
 38
 35
Cars purchased (in thousands)353
 329
 258
 311
 265
          
 August 31,
 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007
BALANCE SHEET DATA (in thousands):         
Total assets$1,890,169
 $1,343,418
 $1,268,233
 $1,554,853
 $1,151,414
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of current maturities$403,287
 $99,240
 $110,414
 $158,933
 $124,079
Redeemable noncontrolling interests$19,053
 
 
 
 
_____________________________
(1)

In fiscal 2010, the Company sold its full-service used auto parts operation, which had been operated as part of the Auto Parts Business reporting segment. The Company concluded that the divestiture met the definition of a discontinued operation. Accordingly, the results of this discontinued operation have been removed from continuing operationsother data for all periods presented.

(2)

Tons for recycled ferrous metal are long tons (2,240 pounds) and for finished steel products are short tons (2,000 pounds).

(3)

In fiscal 20102008 and 2009,2007, the Schnitzer Global Exchange trading business accounted for no shipments. In fiscal 2008, 2007 and 2006 it accounted for shipments of recycled ferrous metal (in thousands) of 444 tons, 1,212thousand tons and 1,2721,212 thousand tons, respectively.

respectively, which are not included in the processed ferrous metal amounts presented.
(4)

In accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, the Company reports revenues that include amounts billed for freight to customers, however, average net selling prices are shown net of amounts billed for freight.



20 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  232011


Table of Contents

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

This section includes a discussion of our operations for the three fiscal years ended August 31, 2010.2011, 2010 and 2009. The following discussion and analysis provides information which management believes is relevant to an assessment and understanding of our results of operations and financial condition. The discussion should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and the related notes thereto in Part II, Item 8 of this report and the Selected Financial Data contained in Part II, Item 6 of this report.


Business
We are one of the nation’s largest recyclers of ferrous and nonferrous scrap metal, a leading recycler of used and salvaged vehicles and a manufacturer of finished steel products.
Business

We operate in three reporting segments (MRB, APB and SMB) that collectively provide an end-of-life cycle solution for a variety of products through our integrated businesses. We use operating income (loss) to measure our segment performance. Corporate expense consists primarily of unallocated expense for management and administrative services that benefit all three reporting segments. As a result of this unallocated expense, the operating income (loss) of each reporting segment does not reflect the operating income (loss) the reporting segment would have as a stand-alone business. For further information regarding our reporting segments, including financialinformation about geographic areas, see Note 20 – Segment Information in the notesNotes to the consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements in Part II, Item 8 of this report.

MRB buys, collects, processes, recycles, sells and brokers ferrous scrap metal (containing iron) to foreign and domestic steel producers, including SMB, and nonferrous scrap metal (not containing iron) to both foreign and domestic markets. MRB processes mixed and large pieces of scrap metal into smaller pieces by crushing, sorting, shearing, shredding and torching, resulting in scrap metal pieces of a size, density and purity required by customers to meet their production needs.

APB procures used and salvaged vehicles and sells serviceable used auto parts from these vehicles through its self-service auto parts stores. The remaining portions of the vehicles, primarily autobodies, corescore parts and nonferrous materials, are sold to metal recyclers, including MRB where geographically feasible.

SMB operates a steel mini-mill that produces a wide range of finished steel products. MRB is the sole supplier for SMB’s scrap metal requirements, which SMB purchases substantially all of its recycled metal from MRB at rates that approximate export market prices for shipments from the West Coast of the US andU.S. SMB uses its mini-mill near Portland, Oregon to melt recycled metal and other raw materials to produce finished steel products. SMB also maintains a mill depotsdepot in Central and Southern California.

Our results of operations depend in large part on the demand and prices for recycled metal in foreign and domestic markets and steel products in the Western US.markets. Our deep water port facilities on both the East and West coasts of the USU.S. (in Everett, Massachusetts; Oakland, California; Portland, Oregon; Tacoma, Washington; and Providence, Rhode Island) and access to public deep water port facilities (in Kapolei, Hawaii and Salinas, Puerto Rico) allow us to efficiently meet the global demand for recycledferrous scrap metal by shipping bulk cargoes to steel manufacturers located in Europe, Asia, Central America and Africa. Our exports of nonferrous processed scrap metal are shipped in containers through various public docks to specialty steelmakers, foundries, aluminum sheet and ingot manufacturers, copper refineries and smelters, brass and bronze ingot manufacturers and wire and cable producers globally. We also transport both ferrous and nonferrous metals by truck and rail to meet regional domestic demand. In particular, our processing facilities in the Southeastern USU.S. also provide efficient access to the automobile and steel manufacturing industries in that region.

Key economic factors and trends affecting the industries in which we operate

Our financial results largely depend on supply of raw materials in the USU.S. and demand for recycled metal in foreign and domestic markets and for finished steel products in the Western US.U.S. Fluctuating or volatile supply and demand conditions affect market prices for and volumes of recycled ferrous and nonferrous metal in global markets and for steel products in the Western USU.S. and can have a significant impact on the results of operations for all three reporting segments.

In fiscal 2010, we continued to experience2011, the effects of the 2009 global economic crisis. The USU.S. economy began to show some signs of a gradual recovery throughas evidenced by increased USU.S. steel mill utilization over the prior year and slightly improved availability of raw materials. BetterContinued growth and positive economic conditions in overseas markets, particularly in Asia, led to a continuing strong demand for exports of ferrous and nonferrous recycled materials. However, the global economy was


2421 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 20102011


still hampered by other factors, including the European sovereign debt crisis and the tightening

Table of credit availability in China. Although our overall financial performance benefited from the gradually improving global economy, the still uncertain nature of the recovery and resulting market volatility led to variable quarterly results throughout fiscal 2010.

Contents


Strategic factors

As we continue to closely monitor the economic situation, we remain focused on ourthe following core strategies which we believe willto meet our business objectives:

Use of our seven deep water ports to access customers directly around the world and to meet demand wherever it is greatest;

Growth through acquisitions in existing and new geographic regions that create value and generate returns in excess of our cost of capital;

attractive returns;

Continued investment in and benefit from technologies and process improvements which increase the separation and recovery of recycled materials from our shredding process; and

Continued improvement in our productivity, focus on cost containmentincreasing efficiency and optimization of the spreads between our selling prices and the cost of acquiring materials.

In addition, we highly value the strategic synergies within our integrated operations. APB is a key supplier to MRB, and we opportunistically look to enhance the geographic proximity of the two businesses. In fiscal 2010,2011, we acquired from LKQ Corporation four self-servicesubstantially all of the assets of two metals recycling businesses in Canada, with a total of nine metal collection and processing facilities, which marked MRB’s first expansion into Canada. APB has three facilities in Western Canada that will be able to supply these new MRB facilities in addition to shipping to our Tacoma, WA facility. We also acquired substantially all of the assets of a used auto parts business with three stores which are located near MRB’s export facility in Portland, Oregon and two self-service used auto parts stores which increased ourSeattle, WA, expanding APB’s presence in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. We also acquiredNorthwestern U.S. MRB has a metals recyclersignificant presence in MontanaTacoma, WA, which will benefit from the synergies of this enhanced access to provide an additional source of scrap metal for our Tacoma, Washington export facility and sold our full-service used auto parts operation to LKQ Corporation.

supply.

Executive Overview of Financial Results

In fiscal 2010,2011, our operating results benefited from increased average selling prices due to continuing strong demand from export markets as well as recovering domestic demand for scrap and recycled metal products and saw us returnincremental revenues from acquisitions. The increased demand led to profitability, withhigher average net selling prices and increased availability of raw materials, which resulted in revenues growing by $514 million$1.2 billion to $2.3$3.5 billion and net income attributable to SSI of $67$118 million compared to a loss of ($32)$67 million in fiscal 2009.2010. Diluted net income attributable to SSI was $2.37$4.23 per share for fiscal 20102011 compared to a net loss of ($1.14)$2.37 per share in fiscal 2009.

2010.

During fiscal 2011, we continued to expand our presence in regions in which we operate and in new locations through the acquisition of ten businesses. The aggregate purchase price paid for acquisitions during fiscal 2011 was $314 million, compared to $41 million during fiscal 2010.
The following items summarize our consolidated financial performance for fiscal 2010:

2011:

Revenues of $2.3$3.5 billion, compared to $1.8$2.3 billion in the prior year;

Operating income of $126$186 million, compared to operating loss of ($51)$126 million in the prior year;

Net income

Income from continuing operations attributable to SSI of $81$118 million, or $2.86$4.24 per share (diluted), compared to a net loss from continuing operations attributable to SSI of ($28)$81 million, or ($0.99)$2.86 per share (diluted), in the prior year; and

Net income attributable to SSI of $67$118 million, or $2.37$4.23 per share (diluted), compared to a net loss attributable to SSI of ($32)$67 million, or ($1.14)$2.37 per share (diluted), in the prior year.


22 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  252011


Table of Contents

The following items summarize our consolidated cash flow and balance sheet information for fiscal 2010:

2011:

Net cash provided by operating activities of $90$140 million, compared to $288$89 million in the prior year;

and

Cash on hand of $30 million, compared to $41 million as of the prior year-end; and

Debt, net of cash, of $70$354 million, compared to $71$70 million as of the prior year-end (see the reconciliation of Debt, net of cash in Non-GAAP Financial Measures at the end of Item 7).

, primarily as a result of acquisitions.

In fiscal 2010,2011, our MRB segment generated revenues of $2.0$3.1 billion, a $472 million$1.1 billion increase from fiscal 2009,2010, which included a $309an $867 million, or 25%56%, increase in ferrous revenues and a $161$207 million, or 64%50%, increase in nonferrous revenues.revenues due to increased demand from both export and domestic markets, which, together with increased availability of raw materials, contributed to higher average net selling prices and sales volumes. The increase in ferrous revenues was primarily driven by a 24%27% increase in average net selling price resulting from strong demandand a 26% increase in Asian markets and to a lesser extent improved domestic markets for scrap metal.long tons sold. The increase in nonferrous revenues was driven by a 36%28% increase in the average net selling price and a 21%19% increase in pounds sold due to higher demand and increased availability of raw materials.sold. MRB had operating income of $118$165 million compared to $13$118 million in fiscal 2009.

2010.

In fiscal 2010,2011, our APB segment set records for self-service revenues and operating income withgenerated revenues of $241$320 million and operating income of $51 million., a $79 million increase from fiscal 2010. The $88 million increase in revenues over the prior yearfiscal 2010 was primarily driven by a $37$41 million increase in scrap vehicle revenue and a $32$28 million increase in core revenue primarilymainly due to higher selling prices and sales volumes, and selling prices, and a $15$5 million increase in parts revenues. APB had operating income of $51$64 million compared to $4$51 million in fiscal 2009.

2010.

In fiscal 2010,2011, our SMB segment generated revenues of $285$317 million, a $22$32 million increase from fiscal 2009.2010. The increase over prior yearfiscal 2010 reflected an increase in the average net selling price of finished steel products of $110 per ton, or 19%, to $697 per ton. This was partly offset by a decrease in sales volumes for finished steel products of 635 thousand tons, or 17%(1)%, to 444439 thousand tons in fiscal 2010. However, the2011. The increases in average net selling price decreased $30 per ton, or (5%), to $587 per ton in fiscal 2010. The increases in sales volume reflected improved, but still weak, demand for finished steel products in western North America. SMB had operating income of $3 million compared to an operating loss of ($6)$(6) million compared to ($42) million in fiscal 2009.

Share Repurchases2010

During fiscal 2010, we repurchased 412,994 shares of Class A common stock, or approximately 2% of the total Class A and Class B shares outstanding, at a total cost of $17 million under the authority granted by our Board of Directors.

26.


23 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 20102011


Table of Contents

Results of Operations

   For the year ended August 31, 
            % Increase/(Decrease) 
($ in thousands)  2010  2009  2008  2010 vs 2009  2009 vs 2008 

Revenues:

      

Metals Recycling Business

  $1,979,770   $1,507,655   $3,062,850   31 (51%) 

Auto Parts Business

   241,233    153,207    228,082   57 (33%) 

Steel Manufacturing Business

   285,085    263,269    603,189   8 (56%) 

Intercompany revenue eliminations(1)

   (204,848  (136,901  (377,171 50 (64%) 
               

Total revenues

   2,301,240    1,787,230    3,516,950   29 (49%) 
               

Cost of goods sold:

      

Metals Recycling Business

   1,791,221    1,419,237    2,619,376   26 (46%) 

Auto Parts Business

   147,511    112,887    137,866   31 (18%) 

Steel Manufacturing Business

   284,258    299,311    522,200   (5%)  (43%) 

Intercompany cost of goods sold eliminations(1)

   (203,226  (149,493  (368,108 36 (59%) 
               

Total cost of goods sold

   2,019,764    1,681,942    2,911,334   20 (42%) 
               

Selling, general and administrative expense:

      

Metals Recycling Business

   73,467    82,381    97,959   (11%)  (16%) 

Auto Parts Business

   42,426    36,719    43,895   16 (16%) 

Steel Manufacturing Business

   6,689    5,958    8,689   12 (31%) 

Corporate(2)

   36,223    38,352    63,990   (6%)  (40%) 
               

Total SG&A expense

   158,805    163,410    214,533   (3%)  (24%) 
               

Environmental matters:

      

Metals Recycling Business

   (291  (5,846  919   (95%)  NM  

Auto Parts Business

   200    37    (1,365 441 NM  
               

Total environmental matters

   (91  (5,809  (446 (98%)  1202
               

(Income) loss from joint ventures:

      

Metals Recycling Business

   (3,076  (669  (12,277 360 (95%) 

Change in intercompany (profit) loss elimination(3)

   (59  (520  571   (89%)  NM  
               

Total income from joint ventures

   (3,135  (1,189  (11,706 164 (90%) 
               

Operating income (loss):

      

Metals Recycling Business

   118,449    12,552    356,873   844 (96%) 

Auto Parts Business

   51,096    3,564    47,686   1334 (93%) 

Steel Manufacturing Business

   (5,862  (42,000  72,300   (86%)  NM  
               

Segment operating income (loss)

   163,683    (25,884  476,859   NM   NM  

Corporate expense

   (36,223  (38,352  (63,990 (6%)  (40%) 

Change in intercompany (profit) loss elimination(4)

   (1,563  13,112    (9,634 NM   NM  
               

Total operating income (loss)

  $125,897   $(51,124 $403,235   NM   NM  
               

 For the year ended August 31,
       % Increase/(Decrease)
($ in thousands)2011 2010 2009 2011 vs 2010 2010 vs 2009
Revenues:         
Metals Recycling Business$3,070,004
 $1,979,770
 $1,507,655
 55 % 31 %
Auto Parts Business319,833
 241,233
 153,207
 33 % 57 %
Steel Manufacturing Business317,483
 285,085
 263,269
 11 % 8 %
Intercompany revenue eliminations(1)
(248,126) (204,848) (136,901) 21 % 50 %
Total revenues3,459,194
 2,301,240
 1,787,230
 50 % 29 %
Cost of goods sold:         
Metals Recycling Business2,810,128
 1,791,221
 1,419,237
 57 % 26 %
Auto Parts Business203,094
 147,511
 112,887
 38 % 31 %
Steel Manufacturing Business308,319
 284,258
 299,311
 8 % (5)%
Intercompany cost of goods sold eliminations(1)
(249,376) (203,226) (149,493) 23 % 36 %
Total cost of goods sold3,072,165
 2,019,764
 1,681,942
 52 % 20 %
Selling, general and administrative expense:         
Metals Recycling Business99,447
 73,467
 82,381
 35 % (11)%
Auto Parts Business52,582
 42,426
 36,719
 24 % 16 %
Steel Manufacturing Business6,602
 6,689
 5,958
 (1)% 12 %
Corporate(2)
46,394
 36,223
 38,352
 28 % (6)%
Total SG&A expense205,025
 158,805
 163,410
 29 % (3)%
Environmental matters:         
Metals Recycling Business532
 (291) (5,846) NM
 (95)%
Auto Parts Business130
 200
 37
 (35)% 441 %
Total environmental matters662
 (91) (5,809) NM
 (98)%
Income from joint ventures:         
Metals Recycling Business(4,749) (3,076) (669) 54 % 360 %
Change in intercompany profit elimination(3)
127
 (59) (520) NM
 (89)%
Total income from joint ventures(4,622) (3,135) (1,189) 47 % 164 %
Operating income (loss):         
Metals Recycling Business164,646
 118,449
 12,552
 39 % 844 %
Auto Parts Business64,027
 51,096
 3,564
 25 % 1,334 %
Steel Manufacturing Business2,562
 (5,862) (42,000) NM
 (86)%
Segment operating income (loss)231,235
 163,683
 (25,884) 41 % NM
Corporate expense(46,394) (36,223) (38,352) 28 % (6)%
Change in intercompany profit elimination(4)
1,123
 (1,563) 13,112
 NM
 NM
Total operating income (loss)$185,964
 $125,897
 $(51,124) 48 % NM
_____________________________ 
NM = Not Meaningful

(1)

MRB sells recycled ferrous metal to SMB at rates per ton that approximate West Coast export market prices. In addition, APB sells auto bodies to MRB. These intercompany revenues and cost of goods sold are eliminated in consolidation.

(2)

Corporate expense consists primarily of unallocated expenses for services that benefit all three business segments. As a consequence of this unallocated expense, the operating income of each segment does not reflect the operating income the segment would have as a stand-alone business.

(3)

The joint ventures sell recycled ferrous metal to MRB and then subsequentelysubsequently to SMB at rates per ton that approximate West Coast export market prices. Consequently, these intercompany revenues produce intercompany operating income (loss), which is not recognized until the finished products are sold to third parties; therefore, intercompany profit is eliminated while the products remain in inventory.

(4)

Intercompany (profits) lossesprofits are not recognized until the finished products are sold to third parties,parties; therefore, intercompany profit is eliminated while the products remain in inventory.


24 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  272011


Table of Contents

Revenues

Fiscal 20102011 compared with fiscal 2009

Consolidated revenues2010

Revenues for fiscal 20102011 increased $514for all reporting segments primarily due to higher average net selling prices and higher sales volumes resulting from stronger worldwide demand from export markets as well as recovering domestic demand for scrap and recycled metal, increased availability of raw materials, including improved recovery through enhanced processing technologies. Incremental revenues from third party sales generated by fiscal 2011 acquisitions were $93 million or 29%, to $2.3 billion. .
Fiscal 2010 compared with fiscal 2009
Revenues in fiscal 2010 increased for all reporting segments primarily due to continuing strong worldwide demand for scrap and recycled metal, which led to higher average net selling prices and sales volumes, and to a lesser extent increased Western USU.S. demand for finished steel products.

Operating Income (Loss)
Fiscal 20092011 compared with fiscal 2008

Consolidated revenues for fiscal 2009 decreased $1.7 billion, or 49%, to $1.8 billion. Revenues2010

The increase in fiscal 2009 decreased for all reporting segmentsoperating income was primarily due to the worldwide economic crisis which reduced demand for scraphigher average net selling prices and recycled metal and finished steel products throughout the period. This reduced demand resulted in lower scrap and recycled metal and finished steelhigher sales volumes as a result of continuing strong export market conditions, increased availability of raw materials, increased yield from higher production and enhanced shredding and sorting technologies, and incremental operating income from acquisitions.
Operating income reflected an increase of $46 million in consolidated selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) expense for fiscal 2011, primarily due to an $18 million increase in compensation expenses mainly related to increased headcount from recent acquisitions and a $12 million increase in professional and other third party services, including transaction costs associated with acquisitions completed in fiscal 2011. In fiscal 2011, SG&A expense was reduced by $6 million for favorable customer contract settlements, compared to a reduction of $3 million in fiscal 2010. In addition, SG&A expense was lower average selling prices.

in fiscal 2010 as it included Operating Income (Loss)$9 million

in benefits from favorable legal settlements and environmental cost reimbursements.

Fiscal 2010 compared with fiscal 2009

Consolidated operating income was $126 million for fiscal 2010 compared to a consolidated operating loss of ($51) million for fiscal 2009.

As a percentage of consolidated revenues, consolidated operating income increased by 8.3 percentage points for fiscal 2010 compared to fiscal 2009.2009. This improvement in consolidated operating income was primarily due to higher average net selling prices, which increased more than the average cost of raw materials, and increased availability of raw materials, which widenedimproved operating margins. The improvement in consolidated operating income also benefited from a decrease in consolidated selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”)&A expense of $5$5 million to $159$159 million for fiscal 2010.2010. The decrease included $9 million in higher bad debt expense recognized in the prior year, $6 million in current yearfiscal 2010 benefits recognized from favorable customer contract and legal settlements, $6 million in environmental and legal cost reimbursements, including $3 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2010, and $6 million in reduced professional service fees. These decreases were partially offset by an $18 million increase in incentive compensation due to improvements in financial performance and the reinstatement of employer contributions to our defined contribution plans effective April 2010, and by $2 million of increased expense related to the amortization of intangibles.

Fiscal 2009 compared with fiscal 2008

Consolidated operating loss was ($51) million for fiscal 2009 compared to a consolidated operating income of $403 million for fiscal 2008. As a percentage of consolidated revenues, consolidated operating income decreased by 14.3 percentage points for fiscal 2009 compared to fiscal 2008. Weaker year-over-year demand and the impact of declines in selling prices, which outpaced the decline in purchase prices, resulted in the reduction in operating income that included a non-cash net realizable value (“NRV”) inventory write down of $52 million in fiscal 2009. This decrease in consolidated operating income (loss) was partially offset by a $4 million release of environmental reserves and a $3 million gain recognized in fiscal 2009, primarily related to resolution of the Hylebos Waterway litigation. Additionally, decreases in consolidated cost of goods sold and consolidated SG&A expense were due to our implementation of cost containment measures that included a decrease in headcount of 8%, the suspension of employer contributions to our defined contribution plans effective in March 2009 and other non-labor cost reductions for fiscal 2009. Consolidated SG&A expense decreased $51 million to $163 million for fiscal 2009 compared to $214 million for fiscal 2008 primarily due to decreased compensation-related expenses of $49 million, and reduced expenses of $7 million resulting from cost containment measures and other non-compensation related costs including professional and outside services expense. The reduction in compensation-related expenses was primarily due to a decrease in annual incentive and share-based compensation expense resulting from operating losses incurred and a $5 million benefit arising from nondeductible executive incentive compensation that was awarded and included as nondeductible officers’ compensation for fiscal 2008 but was voluntarily and irrevocably declined in fiscal 2009. The decline in professional services expense was primarily the result of reduced consulting fees in fiscal 2009. Also included in the consolidated operating loss for fiscal 2009 was a $2 million gain related to a settlement agreement

28  /  Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010


to resolve disputes that had arisen from the separation and termination agreement relating to the dissolution of our joint venture with Hugo Neu in September 2005. These reductions were partially offset by a $5 million increase in bad debt expense for fiscal 2009 compared to the prior year resulting from bankruptcies and adverse financial conditions experienced by certain of our customers, which affected their ability to satisfy their obligations.

Interest Expense

Interest expense was $2$8 million $3, $2 million and $9$3 million for fiscal 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008,2009, respectively. The decreaseincrease from fiscal 20092010 to fiscal 20102011 is the result of lowerhigher outstanding debt and higher average interest rates and lower outstanding debt.under our amended bank credit facility. For more information about our outstanding debt balances, see Note 1110 – Long-Term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations in the notesNotes to the consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements in Part II, Item 8 of this report.

Other Income, Net, Excluding Interest Expense

Other income, net, excluding interest expense was $2$3 million $7, $2 million and $3$7 million for fiscal 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008,2009, respectively. Other income decreased by $5 million in fiscal 2010 compared to the prior year because fiscal 2009 included a pre-tax gain of $5 million from a settlement agreement relating to the dissolution of one of our joint venture with Hugo Neuventures in September 2005.

Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Income tax expense (benefit) was

$57 million, $41 million and $(20) million for fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Fiscal 20102011 compared with fiscal 2009

2010

Our effective tax rate for fiscal 20102011 was 31.6% compared to 32.6% for fiscal 2010. The effective tax rate differed from the U.S. federal statutory rate of 35%, primarily due to the lower tax rate for foreign income and domestic production activities deductions. The fiscal 2011 effective tax rate also benefited from certain adjustments recorded in the period, including a recognition of research and development credits and a reduction in a reserve for unrecognized state income tax benefits. In addition, during the fourth

25 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011


quarter of fiscal 2011, we recorded an adjustment to correct an error that originated in a prior period pertaining to deferred tax liabilities related to our investment in a subsidiary. The correction of this error resulted in a reduction of income tax expense and an increase to net income of $3 million for the year ended August 31, 2011. See Note 17 - Income Taxes in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements in Part II, Item 8 of this report for further discussion of the correction.
Fiscal 2010 compared with fiscal 2009
Our effective tax rate for fiscal 2010 was 32.6% (provision on income) compared to (42.3%)(42.3)% (benefit on a loss) for fiscal 2009.2009. The level of the decrease in the effective rate primarily reflects the impact of tax credits on lower taxable income (loss) in fiscal 2009 compared with fiscal 2010, a lower state tax rate in fiscal 2010 resulting from the reduction in the reserve for unrecognized tax benefits and a more favorable manufacturing deduction in fiscal 2010 which included the restoration of a previously disallowed deduction due to a newly enacted law. Fiscal 2009 also included a reduction in the reserve for unrecognized tax benefits, which increased the effective rate benefit on the loss.



Fiscal 2009 compared with fiscal 200826

Our effective tax rate for fiscal 2009 was (42.3%) (benefit on a loss) compared to 35.9% (provision on income) for fiscal 2008. The increase in the effective rate primarily reflects our net loss in fiscal 2009, the contingent state tax liabilities that were reduced because a settlement was negotiated with one state and the statute / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011



Financial results by reporting segment

We operate our business across three reporting segments: MRB, APB and SMB. Additional financial information relating to these reporting segments is contained in Note 20 – Segment Information in the notesNotes to the consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements in Part II, Item 8 of this report.

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  29


Metals Recycling Business

   For the Year Ended August 31, 
            % Increase/(Decrease) 
($ in thousands, except for prices)  2010  2009  2008  2010 vs 2009  2009 vs 2008 

Ferrous revenues

  $1,558,664   $1,249,308   $2,590,796   25 (52%) 

Nonferrous revenues

   412,927    251,508    460,639   64 (45%) 

Other

   8,179    6,839    11,415   20 (40%) 
               

Total segment revenues

   1,979,770    1,507,655    3,062,850   31 (51%) 

Cost of goods sold

   1,791,221    1,419,237    2,619,376   26 (46%) 

Selling, general and administrative expense

   73,467    82,381    97,959   (11%)  (16%) 

Environmental matters

   (291  (5,846  919   (95%)  NM  

(Income) from joint ventures

   (3,076  (669  (12,277 360 (95%) 
               

Segment operating income

  $118,449   $12,552   $356,873   844 (96%) 
               

Average ferrous recycled metal sales prices ($/LT):(1)

      

Steel Manufacturing Business(2)

  $339   $328   $446   3 (26%) 

Other domestic

  $311   $232   $388   34 (40%) 

Foreign

  $330   $262   $445   26 (41%) 

Average

  $328   $264   $436   24 (39%) 

Ferrous sales volume (LT, in thousands):

      

Steel Manufacturing Business

   458    335    737   37 (55%) 

Other domestic

   651    418    805   56 (48%) 
               

Total domestic

   1,109    753    1,542   47 (51%) 

Foreign

   3,122    3,436    3,655   (9%)  (6%) 
               

Total ferrous sales volume (LT, in thousands)

   4,231    4,189    5,197   1 (19%) 
               

Average nonferrous sales price ($/pound)(1)

  $0.83   $0.61   $1.03   36 (41%) 

Nonferrous sales volumes (pounds, in thousands)

   478,486    397,056    439,470   21 (10%) 

Outbound freight included in cost of goods sold (in thousands)

  $187,454   $150,775   $332,777   24 (55%) 

 For the Year Ended August 31,
       % Increase/(Decrease)
($ in thousands, except for prices)2011 2010 2009 2011 vs 2010 2010 vs 2009
Ferrous revenues$2,425,488
 $1,558,664
 $1,249,308
 56 % 25 %
Nonferrous revenues619,640
 412,927
 251,508
 50 % 64 %
Other24,876
 8,179
 6,839
 204 % 20 %
Total segment revenues3,070,004
 1,979,770
 1,507,655
 55 % 31 %
Cost of goods sold2,810,128
 1,791,221
 1,419,237
 57 % 26 %
Selling, general and administrative expense99,447
 73,467
 82,381
 35 % (11)%
Environmental matters532
 (291) (5,846) NM
 (95)%
(Income) from joint ventures(4,749) (3,076) (669) 54 % 360 %
Segment operating income$164,646
 $118,449
 $12,552
 39 % 844 %
Average ferrous recycled metal sales prices ($/LT):(1)
         
Steel Manufacturing Business(2)
$412
 $339
 $328
 22 % 3 %
Other domestic$389
 $311
 $232
 25 % 34 %
Foreign$421
 $330
 $262
 28 % 26 %
Average$416
 $328
 $264
 27 % 24 %
Ferrous sales volume (LT, in thousands):         
Steel Manufacturing Business404
 458
 335
 (12)% 37 %
Other domestic689
 651
 418
 6 % 56 %
Total domestic1,093
 1,109
 753
 (1)% 47 %
Foreign4,236
 3,122
 3,436
 36 % (9)%
Total ferrous sales volume (LT, in thousands)5,329
 4,231
 4,189
 26 % 1 %
Average nonferrous sales price ($/pound)(1)
$1.06
 $0.83
 $0.61
 28 % 36 %
Nonferrous sales volumes (pounds, in thousands)568,560
 478,486
 397,056
 19 % 21 %
Outbound freight included in cost of goods sold (in thousands)$225,747
 $187,454
 $150,775
 20 % 24 %
_____________________________
LT = Long Ton, which is 2,240 pounds
NM = Not Meaningful
(1)

Price information is shown after netting the cost of freight incurred to deliver the product to the customer.

(2)

The fiscal 2009 average ferrous recycled metal sales price to SMB was significantly higher than the average foreign sales price because when compared to foreign customers, sales to SMB were greater in volume during the first quarter of the fiscal year, when sales prices were higher, thenthan in the latter three quarters.

LT = Long Ton, which is 2,240 pounds

NM = Not Meaningful

30Fiscal 2011 compared with fiscal 2010
Revenues
The increase in revenues was primarily attributable to higher average net selling prices and higher sales volumes caused by increased demand, availability of raw materials and incremental volume from acquisitions.
The increase in ferrous revenues was primarily driven by higher average net selling prices and higher sales volumes. The average net ferrous selling price increased $88 per long ton during fiscal 2011 primarily due to stronger demand from export markets as

27 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011


well as gradually recovering domestic demand which drove increases in foreign and domestic selling prices. Ferrous sales volumes increased by 1.1 million long tons driven by increased availability of raw materials, our focus on maximizing throughput, which is being accomplished through increased purchases of raw materials, increased production as a result of our investments in technology and continuous improvement programs, and incremental volume from acquisitions.
The increase in nonferrous revenues was driven by increases in both the average nonferrous net selling price and sales volumes. The average net selling price increased $0.23 per pound during fiscal 2011 primarily due to stronger demand and higher commodity prices. In addition, nonferrous volumes sold increased 90 million pounds for fiscal 2011, reflecting stronger global market conditions, improved recovery of nonferrous materials processed through our enhanced shredding and sorting technologies, more nonferrous collection activity and incremental volume from acquisitions.
Segment Operating Income
The increase in operating income in fiscal 2011 was primarily due to higher average net selling prices and higher sales volumes for both ferrous and nonferrous scrap metal as a result of continuing strong export market conditions, increased availability of raw materials, increased yield from higher production and enhanced shredding and sorting technologies, and incremental operating income from acquisitions. While we were able to increase the spread between selling prices and purchase prices, operating income as a percentage of revenues decreased from 6.0% in fiscal 2010


to 5.4% in fiscal 2011, primarily due to the escalation in selling prices.

Included in fiscal 2011 operating income for MRB was an increase in SG&A expense of $26 million compared to the prior year primarily due to a $10 million increase in compensation expense as a result of increased headcount from new acquisitions and a $6 million increase in expenses for professional and other third party services primarily related to transaction costs associated with acquisitions. In fiscal 2011, SG&A expense was reduced by $6 million for favorable customer contract settlements, which represented a $3 million increase over the prior year. In addition, SG&A expense was lower in fiscal 2010 as it included $3 million in benefits from environmental expense reimbursements.
Fiscal 2010 compared with fiscal 2009

Revenues

MRB

The increase in revenues increased $472 million, or 31%, to $2.0 billion for fiscal 2010. This increase was primarily attributable to higher ferrous average net selling prices and higher nonferrous sales volumes, caused by increased demand for and availability of scrap metal.

Ferrous revenues increased $309$309 million, or 25%, to $1.6$1.6 billion for fiscal 2010.2010. The increase in ferrous revenues was primarily driven by higher average net selling prices. We experienced increasing prices during the year as the average net ferrous selling price increased $64$64 per long ton, or 24%, compared to the prior year due to strong demand in Asian markets and to a lesser extent improved demand in domestic markets, which provided support to both domestic and foreign selling prices.

Nonferrous revenues increased $161$161 million, or 64%, to $413$413 million for fiscal 2010.2010. The increase in nonferrous revenues was driven by increases in both the average nonferrous net selling price and sales volumes. The average net selling price increased $0.22,$0.22, or 36%, to $0.83$0.83 per pound during fiscal 2010 primarily due to stronger demand. In addition, nonferrous volumes sold increased 81 million pounds, or 21%, to 478 million pounds for fiscal 2010, caused by increased recovery of nonferrous materials from the shredding process, more nonferrous collection activity and higher demand due to stronger global market conditions.

Segment Operating Income

Operating income for MRB was $118 million, or 6.0% of revenues for fiscal 2010 compared to $13 million, or 0.8%, of revenues for fiscal 2009.

The increase in operating income reflectsreflected the impact of improved worldwide demand for scrap and recycled metal, which led to higher average net selling prices that increased more than the average cost of raw materials, increased availability of raw materials and continued benefits from improved production operating efficiencies. In addition, income from joint ventures increased by $2$2 million over the prior year primarily due to the stronger demand for scrap metal.

Included in fiscal 2010 operating income for MRB was a decrease in SG&A expense of $9$9 million compared to the prior year, primarily due to a reduction of $8$8 million in bad debt expense, $6$6 million in current year benefits from legal settlements and $3$3 million in environmental cost reimbursements. Offsetting these decreases were a $7$7 million increase in incentive compensation due to improvements in financial performance and a $1$1 million increase in expense related to the amortization of intangibles.



Fiscal 2009 compared with fiscal 200828

Revenues /

MRB revenues decreased $1.6 billion, or 51%, to $1.5 billion for fiscal 2009. This decrease was primarily attributable to lower average net selling prices and lower sales volumes, caused by lower demand and reduced availability of raw materials due to weaker global market conditions in fiscal 2009.

Ferrous revenues decreased $1.4 billion, or 52%, to $1.2 billion for fiscal 2009. This decrease was driven by reductions in both ferrous sales volumes and average net selling prices. Ferrous sales volumes decreased 1.0 million tons, or 19%, to 4.2 million tons in fiscal 2009. Ferrous foreign sales volumes decreased 219 thousand tons, or 6%, to 3.4 million tons for fiscal 2009 due to a reduction in trading volumes. Ferrous domestic sales volumes decreased 789 thousand tons, or 51%, to 753 thousand tons in fiscal 2009. These decreases in volume were primarily due to a combination of lower demand and reduced availability of raw materials. We also experienced declining prices during the year as the average net ferrous selling price decreased $172 per long ton, or 39%, compared to the prior year due to lower demand and weaker global market conditions.

Nonferrous revenues decreased $209 million, or 45%, to $252 million for fiscal 2009. This decrease was primarily driven by a decrease in both the average nonferrous net selling price and sales volumes, caused by lower demand and weaker global market conditions. The average net selling price decreased $0.42 per pound, or 41%, to $0.61 per

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  312011


pound during fiscal 2009 primarily due to weaker demand. In addition, due to a combination

Table of lower demand and reduced availability, nonferrous pounds shipped decreased 42 million pounds, or 10%, to 397 million pounds for fiscal 2009.

ContentsSegment Operating Income

Operating income for MRB was $13 million, or 0.8% of revenues for fiscal 2009 compared to $357 million, or 11.7% of revenues for fiscal 2008. The decrease in operating income reflects the impact of the lower net selling prices for ferrous and nonferrous metal, which declined more than the costs of raw materials and freight, and decreased processed ferrous and nonferrous volumes that resulted in a non-cash NRV inventory write down of $29 million in fiscal 2009. In addition, income from joint ventures decreased by $12 million, or 95% over the prior year primarily due to the weaker demand for scrap metal.

Weaker year-over-year demand and the impact of declines in selling prices, which outpaced the decline in purchase prices, combined with a number of customer renegotiations, deferrals, and cancellations during the first quarter of fiscal 2009, resulted in the reduction in operating income. Offsetting the decreases in average selling prices and volume was a $16 million decrease in MRB’s SG&A expense compared to the prior year, primarily due to $12 million of lower compensation-related expenses, including annual incentive compensation expense, resulting from our weaker financial and operating performance and decreased headcount, a $5 million decrease in professional and outside services, and a $4 million decrease in share-based compensation expense, partially offset by an increase in bad debt of $4 million and a $3 million increase in legal reserves due to ongoing trade disputes. Also included in the operating income loss was a $4 million release of environmental reserves and a $3 million gain recognized in the first quarter of fiscal 2009, primarily related to the resolution of the Hylebos Waterway litigation.

Outlook

MRB’s results are dependent upon the worldwide demand for scrap metal which is used in the production of steel products, and on the available supply and cost of raw materials which are sourced in the United States. Despite the depressed worldwide economic conditions that continue to inhibit production by industrial producers of steel, we believe that the long-term fundamentals supporting the demand for recycled metals remain positive. As the market prices for scrap metal are subject to short-term movements caused by changes in economic conditions, we are not able to provide guidance for market prices of scrap metal; however we expect volumes to be above those seen in fiscal 2010.


Auto Parts Business

   For the Year Ended August 31, 
              % Increase/(Decrease) 
($ in thousands)  2010   2009   2008  2010 vs 2009  2009 vs 2008 

Revenues

  $241,233    $153,207    $228,082    57  (33%) 

Cost of goods sold

   147,511     112,887     137,866    31  (18%) 

Selling, general and administrative expense

   42,426     36,719     43,895    16  (16%) 

Environmental matters

   200     37     (1,365  441  NM  
                 

Segment operating income

  $51,096    $3,564    $47,686    1334  (93%) 
                 

Number of stores at period end

   45     39     38    15  3

Cars purchased (in thousands)

   329     258     311    28  (17%) 

NM = Not Meaningful

 For the Year Ended August 31,
       % Increase/(Decrease)
($ in thousands)2011 2010 2009 2011 vs 2010 2010 vs 2009
Revenues$319,833
 $241,233
 $153,207
 33 % 57%
Cost of goods sold203,094
 147,511
 112,887
 38 % 31%
Selling, general and administrative expense52,582
 42,426
 36,719
 24 % 16%
Environmental matters130
 200
 37
 (35)% 441%
Segment operating income$64,027
 $51,096
 $3,564
 25 % 1,334%
Number of stores at period end50
 45
 39
 11 % 15%
Cars purchased (in thousands)353
 329
 258
 7 % 28%
Fiscal 20102011 compared with fiscal 2009

2010

Revenues

APB’s record self-service revenues of $241 million in fiscal 2010 represented an $88 million, or 57%, increase over fiscal 2009.

The increase in revenues included a $37$41 million increase in scrap vehicle revenue, a $32$28 million increase

32  /  Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010


in core revenue and a $15$5 million increase in parts revenue compared to fiscal 2009.2010. The increase in revenues was driven by higher commodity prices, increased car volumes, further enhancement of production operating efficiencies, and an increase in the number of self-service store locations. In fiscal 2011, APB did not benefit from the Cash-For-Clunkers government stimulus program that increased sales volumes in the prior year.

Segment Operating Income
The increase in operating income for fiscal 2011 reflected the impact of higher prices, increased volumes of scrap and core sales, and improved production operating efficiencies. The decrease in operating income as a percentage of revenues from 21.2% in fiscal 2010 to 20.0% in fiscal 2011 reflected an increase in car purchasing costs which outpaced the increase in selling prices and an increase in SG&A expense of $10 million for fiscal 2011, primarily due to a $4 million increase in compensation expense as a result of additional headcount from acquisitions.
Fiscal 2010 compared with fiscal 2009
Revenues
The increase in revenues included a $37 million increase in scrap vehicle revenue, a $32 million increase in core revenue and a $15 million increase in parts revenue compared to fiscal 2009. These recordincreases in revenues were driven by an increase from 39 to 45 self-service store locations, improved production operating efficiencies, improvements in commodity prices, increased sales of used auto parts attributable to benefits recognized from purchasing higher quality vehicles and increased volumes of purchases of scrapped vehicles including additional vehicles purchased pursuant to the Cash-For-Clunkers government stimulus program.

Segment Operating Income

Operating income for APB was $51 million, or 21% of revenues, for fiscal 2010 compared to $4 million, or 2% of revenues, for fiscal 2009.

The increase in operating income for fiscal 2010 reflected the impact of higher selling prices and volumes for scrapped vehicles, cores and parts, which resulted primarily from increases in commodity prices, an increase from 39 to 45 self-service store locations and improved production operating efficiencies.

Included in operating income was an increase in SG&A expense of $6$6 million for fiscal 2010, primarily due to a $4$4 million increase in compensation expenses, including increases in share-based and incentive compensation, due to improvements in operating results over the prior year and a $1$1 million increase in expense related to the amortization of intangibles.

APB’s results of operations do not include operating results from discontinued operations. See Note 7Business CombinationsDiscontinued Operations in the notesNotes to the consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements in Part II, Item 8 of this report.



Fiscal 2009 compared with fiscal 200829

Revenues /

APB revenues decreased $75 million, or 33%, to $153 million for fiscal 2009, driven by reduced sales volumes and lower average selling prices for scrapped vehicles and cores resulting from the impact of the economic downturn. This included a $46 million decrease in scrap vehicle revenue due to a $126 decrease in the average selling price for scrapped vehicles and a decrease of 49 thousand tons, or 13%, in volumes shipped. Core revenue decreased $31 million over the prior year, primarily due to a $101 decrease in the average selling price per core. Partially offsetting these decreases was parts revenue that increased $2 million over the prior year.

Segment Operating Income

Operating income for APB was $4 million, or 2% of revenues, for fiscal 2009 compared to $48 million, or 21% of revenues, for fiscal 2008. The decrease in operating income for fiscal 2009 reflects the impact of lower sales volumes and prices for scrapped vehicles and cores, and the impact of inventory costs not falling as rapidly as selling prices. Included in the operating income were reductions in SG&A expense of $7 million for fiscal 2009, due to $4 million in lower compensation-related expenses, including incentive compensation, and reduced expenses resulting from cost containment measures which reduced headcount and other non-compensation related costs compared to the same periods in the prior year.

Outlook

APB’s results are dependent upon both the supply and cost of end-of-life vehicles as well as the market prices of ferrous and nonferrous scrap metals, which are in turn a function of overall global economic conditions. As average ferrous and nonferrous selling prices increased in fiscal 2010 compared to fiscal 2009 due to improved worldwide demand for these metals, APB was able to raise its purchase prices of vehicles and still maintain its margins, which contributed to a record year in terms of revenue and operating income. Given current price levels, APB expects volumes in fiscal 2011 to be slightly above those seen in fiscal 2010, with volumes from new stores acquired in fiscal 2010 likely offsetting the one-time benefits of the government’s Cash-For-Clunkers program.

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  332011



Steel Manufacturing Business

   For the Year Ended August 31, 
            % Increase/(Decrease) 
($ in thousands, except price)  2010  2009  2008  2010 vs 2009  2009 vs 2008 

Revenues(1)

  $285,085   $263,269   $603,189    8  (56%) 

Cost of goods sold

   284,258    299,311    522,200    (5%)   (43%) 

Selling, general and administrative expense

   6,689    5,958    8,689    12  (31%) 
               

Segment operating income (loss)

  $(5,862 $(42,000 $72,300    (86%)   NM  
               

Finished goods average sales price ($/ton)(2)

  $587   $617   $728    (5%)   (15%) 

Finished steel products sold (tons, in thousands)

   444    381    776    17  (51%) 

Rolling mill utilization

   58  46  99  26  (54%) 

  For the Year Ended August 31,
        % Increase/(Decrease)
($ in thousands, except price) 2011 2010 2009 2011 vs 2010 2010 vs 2009
Revenues(1)
 $317,483
 $285,085
 $263,269
 11 % 8 %
Cost of goods sold 308,319
 284,258
 299,311
 8 % (5)%
Selling, general and administrative expense 6,602
 6,689
 5,958
 (1)% 12 %
Segment operating income (loss) $2,562
 $(5,862) $(42,000) NM
 (86)%
Finished goods average sales price ($/ton)(2)
 $697
 $587
 $617
 19 % (5)%
Finished steel products sold (tons, in thousands) 439
 444
 381
 (1)% 17 %
Rolling mill utilization 56% 58% 46% (3)% 26 %
_____________________________
NM = Not Meaningful
(1)

Revenues include sales of semi-finished goods (billets) and finished steel products.

(2)

Price information is shown after netting the cost of freight incurred to deliver the product to the customer.

NM = Not Meaningful

Fiscal 20102011 compared with fiscal 2009

2010

Revenues

SMB revenues increased $22 million, or 8%,primarily as a result of increased average selling prices for finished steel products, reflecting our ability to $285 millionpass through higher purchase prices for scrap and other raw materials to end customers. The increase in average selling prices for finished steel products was driven by increased scrap metal purchase prices in global markets as a result of improved worldwide demand and was partially offset by a decrease in the volume of finished steel products sold for fiscal 2011 due to continuing weak demand in our West Coast markets as a result of slow economic growth that hampers construction spending recovery.
Segment Operating Income (Loss)
The increase in operating income reflected the impact of increased average selling prices, which outpaced the increase in scrap and other raw material purchase costs. SMB acquired its scrap metal requirements from MRB at rates that approximated export market prices for shipments from the West Coast of the U.S.
Fiscal 2010 compared with fiscal 2009
Revenues
SMB revenues increased as a result of higher sales volumes. Finished goods sales volumes increased 63 thousand tons, or 17%, to 444 thousand tons in fiscal 2010.2010. The increase in volume was partially offset by a $30$30 per ton, or (5%)(5)%, decrease in the finished goods average sales price to $587$587 per ton for fiscal 2010.2010. The increase in sales volumes and the decrease in averages sales prices reflected global market conditions as well as improved, but still weak, Western USU.S. demand for finished steel products.

Segment Operating Loss

Operating loss for SMB was ($6) million for fiscal 2010 compared to ($42) million for fiscal 2009.

As a percentage of revenues, operating loss decreased by 13.9 percentage points in fiscal 2010.2010. This improvement reflects the impact of increased sales volumes in the current year. Included in operating incomeloss were increases in SG&A expense of $1$1 million for fiscal 2010, resulting from an increase in incentive compensation, including share-based compensation, due to improvements in operating results over the prior year. SMB acquired substantially all of its scrap metal requirements from MRB at rates that approximateapproximated export market prices for shipments from the West Coast of the US.

Fiscal 2009 compared with fiscal 2008U.S.

Revenues

SMB revenues decreased $340 million, or 56%, to $263 million for fiscal 2009 as a result of both reduced sales volumes and average selling prices for finished steel products. Finished goods sales volumes decreased by 395 thousand tons, or 51%, to 381 thousand tons for fiscal 2009 primarily due to reduced demand resulting from the weakened market conditions. Average finished goods selling prices for fiscal 2009 decreased $111 per ton, or 15%, to $617 per ton as a result of the reduced demand.

Segment Operating Income (Loss)

Operating loss for SMB was ($42) million for fiscal 2009 compared to an operating income of $72 million for fiscal 2008. As a percentage of revenues, operating income decreased by 27.9 percentage points in fiscal 2009. The decrease in operating income reflects the impact of lower sales volumes caused by weaker market conditions, selling prices that declined faster than costs and lower anticipated future selling prices that resulted in a non-cash NRV inventory write down of $32 million in fiscal 2009. Included in the operating loss were reductions in SG&A expense of $3 million for fiscal 2009, due to lower compensation-related expenses, including incentive compensation, and reduced expenses resulting from cost containment measures which reduced headcount and other non-compensation related costs

34  /  Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010


compared to the same periods in the prior year. SMB acquired substantially all of its scrap metal requirements from MRB at rates that approximate export market prices for shipments from the West Coast of the US.

Outlook

SMB’s results are dependent upon demand for its products by companies operating in the construction industry on the West Coast of the US and Canada. As the economic downturn continues to hamper construction spending, demand for SMB’s finished steel products is expected to remain soft in fiscal 2011. Sales volumes and margins are heavily dependent upon the timing and strength of the US economic recovery and we are currently unable to provide any guidance for prices and volumes for the fiscal year as a whole.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

We rely on cash provided by operating activities as a primary source of liquidity, supplemented by current cash on hand and borrowings under our existing credit facilities.

Sources and Uses of Cash

We had cash balances of $30$49 million and $41$30 million as of August 31, 20102011 and 2009,2010, respectively. Cash balances are intended to be used primarily for working capital and capital expenditures. We use excess cash on hand to reduce amounts outstanding onunder our credit facilities. As of August 31, 2010,2011, debt, net of cash, was $70$354 million compared to $71$70 million as of August 31, 20092010 (see the Non-GAAP Financial Measures below).

This increase in our debt, net of cash, was primarily due to acquisitions. Our cash balances as of August 31, 2011 and 2010 include an amount of $11 million and $16 million, respectively, which is


30 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011


indefinitely reinvested in Puerto Rico and Canada.
Operating Activities

Net cash provided by operating activities in fiscal 20102011 was $89$140 million, compared to $288$89 million in fiscal 20092010 and $142$288 million in fiscal 2008.

2009.

Cash provided by operating activities in fiscal 2011 included an increase of $45 million in accounts payable due to higher volumes of material purchases and the timing of payments and an increase in accrued income taxes of $22 million due to the improved results. Uses of cash included an increase in accounts receivable of $92 million due to higher sales and the timing of collections and a $45 million increase in inventory due to higher purchase costs and higher volumes of material on hand at year-end.
Cash provided by operating activities in fiscal 2010 included income tax refunds of $49 million, an increase in accrued payroll liabilities of $12$12 million due to increased incentive compensation and an increase of $8$8 million in accounts payable due to timing of payments. Uses of cash included a $109$109 million increase in inventory (excluding $35 million of inventory sold as a part of the divestiture of the full-service auto parts operation) due to higher purchase costs and higher volumes of material on hand at year-end and an increase in accounts receivable of $12$12 million due to the timing of collections.

Cash provided by operating activities in fiscal 2009 included a $199$199 million decrease in inventory due to lower purchase costs and lower volumes of material purchased and a decrease in accounts receivable of $190$190 million resulting from cash collections of receivables. These sources of cash were partially offset by uses of cash that included a $79$79 million decrease in accounts payable due to the reduction in price and volumes of material purchases, a $46$46 million increase in refundable income taxes, a $42$42 million decrease in accrued income taxes due to tax payments related to fiscal 2008 and a $36$36 million decrease in accrued payroll liabilities mainly due to the payment of fiscal 2008 incentive compensation awards.

Cash provided by operating activities in fiscal 2008 included a $54 million increase in accounts payable due to the timing of payments and higher material costs, a $38 million increase in accrued income taxes and a $21 million increase in compensation-related liabilities, including performance incentive related liabilities, principally due to our improved financial and operating performance. These sources of cash were partially offset by an increase in inventory of $216 million due to higher material costs and volumes and a $135 million increase in accounts receivable mainly due to increased sales and timing of collections.

Investing Activities

Net cash used in investing activities in fiscal 20102011 was $64$400 million, compared to $150$64 million in fiscal 20092010 and $128$150 million in fiscal 2008.

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  352009


.

Cash used in investing activities in fiscal 20102011 included $64$294 million for completed acquisitions and $105 million in capital expenditures to upgrade our equipment and infrastructure.
Cash used in investing activities in fiscal 2010 included $64 million in capital expenditures to upgrade our equipment and infrastructure and $41$41 million for completed acquisitions, partially offset by $41$41 million in proceeds from the sale of the full-service auto parts business and other assets.

Cash used in investing activities in fiscal 2009 included $93$93 million for completed acquisitions and $59$59 million in capital expenditures to upgrade our equipment and infrastructure.

Cash used in investing

Financing Activities
Net cash provided by financing activities infor fiscal 2008 included $842011 was $280 million in capital expenditures to upgrade our equipment and infrastructure and $47 million for completed acquisitions.

Financing Activities

Net, compared with net cash used in financing activities for fiscal 2010 was $36of $36 million compared to $111 million in fiscal 20092010 and $12$111 million in fiscal 2008.

2009.

Cash used inprovided by financing activities in 20102011 was primarily due to an $11$303 million reduction in long-termadditional net debt and $17borrowings (refer to Non-GAAP Financial Measures below) which were mainly used to fund our acquisitions, partly offset by $10 million in repurchases of outstanding shares of our Class A common stock.

Cash used in financing activities in 2010 was primarily due to $11 million in net debt repayments (refer to Non-GAAP Financial Measures below) and $17 million in repurchases of outstanding shares of our Class A common stock.
Cash used in financing activities in fiscal 2009 was primarily due to $76$76 million in net debt repayments (refer to Non-GAAP Financial Measures below) which were funded by higher levels of cash generation and $30$30 million in repurchases of outstanding shares of our Class A common stock.

Cash used in financing activities in fiscal 2008 was primarily due to $45 million in repurchases


31 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011

Table of outstanding sharesContents

Credit Facilities
Following is a summary of our Class A common stock, which was financed with a $40 million increase in debt.

Credit Facilities

Our short-term borrowings consist primarily of a one year, unsecured, uncommitted $25 millionoutstanding balances and availability on credit line with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. that expires on March 1, 2011. Interest rates on outstanding indebtedness under the unsecured line of credit are set by the bank at the time of borrowing. We had no borrowings outstanding under this credit line as of August 31, 2010 or August 31, 2009.

We maintain a $450 million revolving credit facility that matures in July 2012 pursuant to anfacilities and long-term debt (in thousands):

  Outstanding as of 8/31/2011 Remaining Availability
Unsecured, uncommitted credit line $
 $25,000
Bank unsecured revolving credit facility $393,428
 $256,572
Tax-exempt economic development revenue bonds due January 2021 $7,700
 N/A
In February 2011, we amended and restated our unsecured committed bank credit agreement with Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent, and the other lenders party thereto.thereto to increase the amount available to $650 million from $450 million, including $30 million in Canadian Dollar availability. The final maturity was also extended to February 2016. Interest rates on outstanding indebtedness under the amended agreement are based, at our option, on either the London Interbank Offered Rate (or the Canadian equivalent) plus a spread of between 0.50%1.75% and 1.00%2.75%, with the amount of the spread based on a pricing grid tied to our leverage ratio, or the greater of the prime rate or the federal fundsbase rate plus 0.50%a spread of between 0% and 1%. In addition, annual commitment fees are payable on the unused portion of the credit facility at rates between 0.10%0.25% and 0.25%0.45%, which is also based on a pricing grid tied to our leverage ratio. As of August 31, 2010 and 2009, weWe had borrowings outstanding under the credit facility of $90$393 million and $100$90 million as of August 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively. The increased borrowings were primarily used to finance acquisitions. The weighted average interest rate on amounts outstanding under this linefacility was 0.79%2.48% and 0.78%0.79% as of August 31, 20102011 and 2009,2010, respectively.

We also have an unsecured, uncommitted $25 million credit line with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. that expires on March 1, 2012. Interest rates are set by the bank at the time of borrowing. We had no borrowings outstanding under this facility as of August 31, 2011 and 2010.
The two bank credit agreements contain various representations and warranties, events of default and financial and other covenants, including covenants regarding maintenance of a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio and a maximum leverage ratio. As of August 31, 2010,2011, we were in compliance with all such covenants. We use these credit facilities to fund share repurchases, acquisitions, capital expenditures, share repurchases, and working capital requirements.

In addition, as of August 31, 20102011 and 2009,2010, we had $8$8 million of long-term indebtedness in the form oftax-exempt bonds maturingthat mature in January 2021.

Acquisitions
Acquisitions

The aggregate purchase price paid for acquisitions during fiscal 2010 was $41 million compared to $96 million during fiscal 2009 which included cash acquired and amounts to be paid of $3 million. During fiscal 2010,2011, we continued to expand our presence in the regions in which we operate and in new locations through the acquisition of value-creating businesses. The aggregate purchase price paid for acquisitions during fiscal 2011 was $314 million (comprising $293 million in cash, $19 million in shares of a subsidiary and $2 million in contingent consideration) compared to $41 million during fiscal 2010 and $96 million during fiscal 2009 (which included cash acquired and amounts to be paid of $3 million). See Note 76 – Business Combinations in the notesNotes to the consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements in Part II, Item 8 of this report for additional information on business acquisitions.

36  /  Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010


Capital Expenditures

Capital expenditures totaled $64$105 million $59, $64 million and $84$59 million for fiscal 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008,2009, respectively. During fiscal 2010,2011, we continued our investmentinvestments in general improvements at a numberthe replacement of our metals recycling facilities, includingexisting equipment and infrastructure, investments in technology to improve the recovery and separation of nonferrous materials from the shredding process and investments to further improve efficiency and increase capacity, increaseimprove worker safety and enhance environmental systems.
We plan to invest up to $135$125 million in capital expenditures in fiscal 2011,2012, which is expected to be spent on continued investments in technology to improve the recovery and separation of nonferrous materials from the shredding process, material handling and processing equipment, enhancements to our information technology infrastructure, improvements for the facilities,to our facilities’ environmental and safety infrastructure and normal equipment replacement and maintenance.replacement. We believe these investments will create value for our shareholders. We expect to use cash generated from operations and available lines of credit to fund capital expenditures in fiscal 2011.

2012.

Environmental Compliance

Our commitment to sustainable recycling and operating our business in an environmentally responsible manner requires us to continue to invest in facilities that improve our environmental presence in the communities in which we operate. Consistent with this commitment,As part of our capital expenditures, we invested $13$14 million $9, $13 million and $10$9 million for environmental projects in fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. We plan to invest an additional $14 million in capital expenditures for environmental projects in fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. We plan to invest a further $18 million in capital expenditures for environmental projects in fiscal 2011. 2012.

32 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011

Table of Contents

These projects include investments in storm water systems and equipment to ensure ongoing compliance with air quality and other environmental regulations.

Our environmental programs also require us to incur costs to remediate conditions at existing sites and to monitor previously remediated sites. We incurred $2 million, $2 million and $3 million in environmental expenditures, which were either expensed or reduced recorded reserves, in fiscal 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. We expect to incur similar amounts of expenditures going forward.

We have been identified by the EPA as a PRP that owns or operates or formerly owned or operated sites which are part of or adjacent to the Portland Harbor Superfund site. Because there has not been a determination of the total investigation costs, the remediation that will be required, the amount of natural resource damages or how the costs of the ongoing investigations and any remedy and natural resource damages will be allocated among the PRPs, it is not presently possible to estimate the costs which we are likely to incur in connection with the Site, although such costs could be significant and material to our future cash flows. Recording ofAny material liabilities recorded in the future related to the Site could result in our failure to maintain compliance with certain covenants in our debt agreements. Significant cash outflows in the future related to the Site could reduce the amount of ouramounts available for borrowing capacity that could otherwise be used for investment in capital expenditures and acquisitions. The EPA has indicated that it expects to issue a record of decision sometime in 2013 that will discuss remedial alternatives for the Site sometime in 2012.Site. See Contingencies – Environmental in Note 1211 – Commitments and Contingencies in the notesNotes to the consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements in Part II, Item 8 of this report.

Share Repurchase Program

Pursuant to a share repurchase program, as amended, in 2001 and 2006, we wereare authorized to repurchase up to 6.09 million shares of our Class A common stock when management deems such repurchases to be appropriate. In November 2008, our Board of Directors approved an increase in the shares authorized for repurchase by 3.0 million, to 9.0 million. We evaluate long- and short-range forecasts as well as anticipated sources and uses of cash before determining the course of action that would best enhance shareholder value.in our share repurchase program. Prior to fiscal 2010,2011, we had repurchased approximately 5.15.5 million shares under the program. In fiscal 2010,2011, we repurchased a total of 412,994254,332 shares of our Class A common stock under this program. Asprogram in open-market transactions at a result, ascost of August 31, 2010 there were$10 million, leaving approximately 3.53.2 million shares available for repurchase under existing authorizations.

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest
Pension Contributions

We make contributions to a defined benefit pension plan, several defined contribution plans and several multiemployer defined benefit pension plans. Contributions vary depending on the plan and are based upon plan provisions, actuarial valuations and negotiated labor agreements. In fiscal 2006,March 2011, we froze further benefit accruals in

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  37


our defined benefit plan. In fiscal 2010, we made a $2 million contributionissued common stock to the defined benefit plan duenoncontrolling interest holder of one of our subsidiaries that is redeemable both at the option of the holder and upon the occurrence of an event that is not solely within the Company’s control. Under the terms of an agreement related to a reduction inthe acquisition, the noncontrolling interest owner has the right to require the Company to purchase its funding status as a result of a reduction20% interest in the single discount rate assumptions usedCompany’s subsidiary for determining pension obligations. While we dofair value. The noncontrolling interest becomes redeemable within 60 days after the later of (i) the third anniversary of the date of the acquisition and (ii) the date on which certain principals of the minority shareholder are no longer employed by the Company. The conditions for redemption of the noncontrolling interest had not anticipate making additional contributionsbeen met as of August 31, 2011. If the interest were to be redeemed, the defined benefit plan in fiscal 2011, we may elect orCompany would be required to do so.

In addition, during fiscalpurchase all of such interest at fair value on the date of redemption. As of August 31, 2011 we anticipate making $4, the fair value of the redeemable noncontrolling interest was $19 million of contributions. See Note 12 – Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest in the Notes to the multiemployer plans in which we participate, including contributions totaling $2 million for the multiemployer plan benefiting union employees of SMB. We believe any additional funding requirements will not have a material impact on our financial condition. See Note 15 – Employee Benefits in the notes to the consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements in Part II, Item 8 of this report for further discussion of our retirement benefit plans.

Effective in March 2009, we suspended employer contributions to our defined contribution plans. We resumed contributions to these plans in April 2010 and expect to make contributions of $3 million to our defined contribution plans in fiscal 2011.

report.

Assessment of Liquidity and Capital Resources

Historically, our available cash resources, internally generated funds, credit facilities and equity offerings have financed our acquisitions, capital expenditures, working capital and other financing needs.

We generally believe our current cash resources, internally generated funds, existing credit facilities and access to the capital markets will provide adequate financingshort-term and long-term liquidity needs for acquisitions, capital expenditures, working capital, joint ventures, stockshare repurchases, debt service requirements, post-retirement obligations and future environmental obligations forobligations. However, in the next 12 months. However, continued weak generalevent market conditions deteriorate, we may result in further utilizing our available credit lines and curtailing capital and operating expenditures, delaying or restricting acquisitions and share repurchases and reassessing working capital requirements. Should we determine, at any time, that weneed additional liquidity, which would require additional short-term liquidity, we willus to evaluate available alternatives and take appropriate steps to obtain sufficient additional funds, but therefunds. There can be no assurance that any such supplemental funding, if sought, could be obtained or, if obtained, would be adequate or on acceptable terms. However, we believe that our balance sheet as of August 31, 2010, expected cash flow from operations and existing credit facilities should provide additional sources of liquidity if required.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

With the exception of operating leases and letters of credit, we are not a party to any off-balance sheet arrangements that have, or are reasonably likely to have, a current or future material effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. We enter into operating leases for both new equipment and property. See Note 1211 – Commitments and Contingencies in the notesNotes to the consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements in Part II, Item 8 of this report for additional information on our operating leases.


3833 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 20102011


Table of Contents

Contractual Obligations and Commitments

We have certain contractual obligations to make future payments. The following table summarizes these future obligations as of August 31, 20102011 (in thousands):

   Payment Due by Period
   2011  2012  2013  2014  2015  Thereafter  Total

Contractual Obligations

              

Long-term debt

  $645  $90,000  $0  $0  $0  $7,700  $98,345

Interest payments on long-term debt

   736   678   29   29   29   159   1,660

Capital leases, including interest

   673   645   589   397   90   2   2,396

Pension funding obligations

   150   239   181   180   179   1,902   2,831

Other accrued liabilities

   524   300   457   300   0   0   1,581

Reserve for uncertain tax positions

   1,553   406   0   0   0   0   1,959

Operating leases

   15,178   13,196   11,070   8,348   4,731   5,205   57,728

Service obligation

   1,399   418   83   30   30   0   1,960

Purchase obligations:

              

Materials purchase commitment

   1,124   749   0   0   0   0   1,873

Natural gas contract(1)

   2,204   0   0   0   0   0   2,204

Electricity contract(2)

   1,553   141   0   0   0   0   1,694
                            

Total

  $25,739  $106,772  $12,409  $9,284  $5,059  $14,968  $174,231
                            

 Payment Due by Period
 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 Thereafter Total
Contractual Obligations             
Long-term debt(1)
$
 $
 $
 $
 $393,428
 $7,700
 $401,128
Interest payments on long-term debt(2)
9,944
 9,944
 9,944
 9,944
 4,598
 113
 44,487
Capital leases, including interest859
 827
 597
 279
 187
 762
 3,511
Operating leases20,434
 18,116
 15,383
 11,092
 5,975
 20,146
 91,146
Purchase obligations26,841
 144
 45
 20
 
 
 27,050
Other(3)
528
 769
 609
 278
 201
 2,256
 4,641
Total$58,606
 $29,800
 $26,578
 $21,613
 $404,389
 $30,977
 $571,963
_____________________________
(1)

SMB has a take-or-pay natural gas contract that currently requires a minimum purchase per day through October 2010, whether or notLong-term debt represents the amount is utilized.

principal amounts of all outstanding long-term debt, maturities of which extend to 2021.
(2)

SMB has an electricity contract with MWL that requires a minimum purchaseInterest payments on long-term debt are based on interest rates in effect as of electricity at a rate subject toAugust 31, 2011. As the contractual interest rates are variable, pricing, whether or notactual cash payments may differ from the amount is utilized. The fixed portionestimates provided.

(3)Other contractual obligations consist of the contract obligates SMB to pay $141 thousand per monthpension funding obligations, other accrued liabilities and reserves for eleven months each year until the contract expires in September 2011.

uncertain tax positions.

Our reserve for uncertain tax positions was $2 million and $4 million as of August 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. See Note 17 – Income Taxes in the notes to the consolidated financial statements in Part II, Item 8 of this report for additional information.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires us to make certain judgments, estimates, and assumptions regarding uncertainties that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. An accounting policy is deemed to be critical if it requires an accounting estimate to be made based on assumptions and judgments about matters that are inherently uncertain at the time the estimate is made, if different estimates reasonably could have been used, or if changes in the estimate that are reasonably likely to occur could materially impact our consolidated financial statements. We have identified certaindeem critical accounting estimates, which arepolicies to be those that are most important to the portrayal of our financial condition and operating results. These estimates require difficult and subjective judgments, including whether estimates are required to be made aboutresults of operations. Because of the uncertainty inherent in these matters, that are inherently uncertain, if different estimates reasonablyactual results could have been used, or if changes indiffer from the estimates thatwe use in applying the critical accounting policies. We are not currently aware of any reasonably likely events or circumstances that would result in materially different amounts being reported.

Our critical accounting estimates include those related to occur could materially impact the financial statements. Significant estimates underlying the accompanying consolidated financial statements include inventory, valuation, goodwill and other intangible asset valuation, environmental costs, accounting for business combinations, revenue recognition and revenue recognition.

redeemable noncontrolling interest.

Inventories

Our inventories primarily consist of scrap metal (ferrous, nonferrous, processed and unprocessed), nonferrous recovered joint product, used and salvaged vehicles, semi-finished steel products (billets) and finished steel products (primarily rebar, merchant bar and wire rod). Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. MRB determines the cost of ferrous and nonferrous inventories principally using the average cost method and capitalizes substantially all direct costs and yard costs into inventory. MRB allocates material and production costs to joint products using the gross margin method. APB establishes cost for used and salvaged vehicle inventory based on the average price paid for a vehicle, capitalizing the vehicle cost into inventory. SMB establishes its finished steel product inventory cost based on a weighted average cost and capitalizes all direct and indirect costs of manufacturing into inventory. Indirect costs of manufacturing include general plant costs, maintenance and yard costs. We evaluate whether our inventory is properly valued at the lower of cost or market on a quarterly basis. We consider estimated future selling prices when

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  39


determining the estimated net realizable value for our inventory. However, asAs MRB generally sells its export recycled ferrous metal under contracts that provide for shipment within 30 to 9060 days after the price is agreed, it utilizes the selling prices under committed contracts and sales orders for determining the estimated market price of quantities on hand that will be shipped under these contracts and orders.

hand.

The accounting process we use to record unprocessed metal and used and salvaged vehicle inventory quantities relies on significant estimates. With respect to unprocessed metal inventory, we rely on weighed quantities that are reduced by estimated amounts that are moved into production. These estimates utilize estimated recoveries and yields that are based on historical trends. Over time, these estimates are reasonably good indicators of what is ultimately produced; however, actual recoveries and yields can vary depending on product quality, moisture content and source of the unprocessed metal. If ultimate recoveries and yields are significantly different than estimated, the value of our inventory could be materially overstated or understated. To assist in validating the reasonableness of these estimates, we run periodic testsperiodically review shrink factors and perform monthly physical inventory estimates. However, due to variations in product density, holding period and production processes utilized to manufacture the product, physical inventories will not necessarily detect all variances. To mitigate this risk, we adjust the ferrous physical inventories when the volume of a commodity is low and a physical inventory count can more accurately predict the remaining volume.


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Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

We evaluate goodwill and intangibles with an indefinite lifefor impairment annually during the second fiscal quarter and upon the occurrence of certain triggering events or substantive changes in circumstances that indicate that the fair value of goodwill or indefinite lived intangible assets may be impaired. Impairment of goodwill is tested at the reporting unit level. A reporting unit is an operating segment level. Ouror one level below an operating segment (referred to as a ‘component’). The Company has determined that its reporting segments,units, for which goodwill has been allocated, are equivalent to ourthe Company’s operating segments (MRB, APB and SMB), as all of the components of the respective segmentseach segment have similar economic characteristics.

The goodwill impairment test follows a two step process. In the first step, the fair value of a reporting segmentunit is compared to its carrying value. If the carrying value of a reporting segmentunit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the impairment test is performed for purposes of measuring the impairment. In the second step, the fair value of the reporting segmentunit is allocated to all of the assets and liabilities of the reporting segmentunit to determine an implied goodwill value. This allocation is similar to a purchase price allocation. If the carrying amount of the reporting segment’sunit’s goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of goodwill, an impairment loss will be recognized in an amount equal to that excess. In the event of a divestiture of a business unit within a reporting segment,unit, goodwill of the reporting segmentunit is allocated to that business unit based on the estimated fair value of the unit being divested to the total estimated fair value of the reporting segmentunit and a gain or loss is determined. The remaining goodwill in the reporting segmentunit from which the assets were divested is subsequently re-evaluated for impairment.

Given that market prices of our reporting units are not readily available, determining their fair value involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions about matters that are inherently uncertain. We estimate the fair value of the reporting segmentsunits using an income approach based on the present value of expected future cash flows utilizing a market-based weighted average cost of capital (“WACC”). Forecasts of future cash flows are based on our best estimate of future sales and operating costs, pricing expectations and general market conditions. To estimate the present value of the cash flows that extend beyond the final year of the discounted cash flow model, we employ a terminal value technique, whereby we use estimated operating cash flows minus capital expenditures and adjust for changes in working capital requirements in the final year of the model, then discount it by the WACC to establish the terminal value. We includeIn addition, we compare the present value of the terminal value in theaggregated estimated fair value estimate. Given that market prices of our reporting segments are not readily available, we make various estimates and assumptions in determiningunits to our market capitalization, including consideration of a control premium. The control premium represents the estimated amount an investor would pay to obtain a controlling interest. We believe this reconciliation is consistent with a market participant perspective. Based on our impairment test performed during the second quarter of fiscal year 2011, the estimated fair values of the reporting segments, which is the price that would be received to sell the reporting segment as a whole in an orderly transaction between market participants. Forecasts of future cash flows are based on our best estimate of future sales and operating costs, pricing expectations and general market conditions.

In addition, we test indefinite-lived intangibles for impairment by either comparing the carrying value of the intangible to the projected discounted cash flows from the intangible or using the relief from royalties method. If theour reporting units substantially exceeded their carrying value exceeds the projected discounted cash flows attributed to the intangible asset, the carrying value is no longer considered recoverable and we will record an impairment.

40  /  Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010


values.

Environmental Costs

We operate in industries that inherently possess environmental risks. To manage these risks, we employ both our own environmental staff and outside consultants. Environmental staff and finance personnel meet regularly to stay updated ondiscuss environmental risks. We estimate future costs for known environmental remediation requirements and accrue for them on an undiscounted basis when it is probable that we have incurred a liability and the related costs can be reasonably estimated but the timing of incurring the estimated costs is unknown. The regulatory and government management of these projects is complex, which is one of the primary factors that make it difficult to assess the cost of potential and future remediation. When only a wide range of estimated amounts can be reasonably established and no other amount within the range is better than another,any other, the low end of the range is recorded in the financial statements. If further developments or resolution of an environmental matter result in facts and circumstances that are significantly different than the assumptions used to develop these reserves, the accrual for environmental remediation could be materially understated or overstated. Adjustments to these liabilities are made when additional information becomes available that affects the estimated costs to study or remediate any environmental issues or when expenditures for which reserves are established are made. The factors we consider in the recognition and measurement of environmental liabilities include:

Current regulations, both at the time the reserve is established and during the course of the investigation or remediation process, which specify standards for acceptable remediation;

Information about the site which becomes available as the site is studied and remediated;

The professional judgment of senior-level internal staff, who take into account similar, recent instances of environmental remediation issues, and studies of our sites, among other considerations;

Technologies available that can be used for remediation; and

The number and financial condition of other potentially responsible parties and the extent of their responsibility for the costs of study and remediation.

The

Our accrued environmental liabilities as of August 31, 20102011 included $1 million related to third party investigation costs for the Portland Harbor Superfund site. Although future costs for the Portland Harbor Superfund site could be material to our financial

35 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011

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position, results of operations, liquidity or cash flows, it is not possible to estimate additional costs which we might incur in connection with the ongoing investigations and remediation because there has not been a determination of the total investigation costs, the remediation that will be required, the amount of natural resource damages or how the costs of the ongoing investigations and any remedy and natural resource damages will be allocated among the PRPs. As such, it is not presently possible to estimate the costs which we are likely to incur in connection with the site and thereforeTherefore, no additional amounts have been accrued. See Contingencies – Environmental in Note 1211 – Commitments and Contingencies in the notesNotes to the consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements in Part II, Item 8 of this report.

Business Combinations

On September 1, 2009,

In a business combination, we adopted the revised accounting standard for business combinations, which requires us to recognize the assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interests in the acquiree at the acquisition date, measured at their fair values as of that date, generally using a market-based income approach. Measuring assets and liabilities at fair value requires us to determine the price that would be paid by a third party market participant based on the highest and best use of the assets or interests acquired. We utilize management estimates that incorporate input from an independent third party valuation firm in our determination of these fair values. Such estimates and valuations require us to make significant assumptions, including projections of future events and operating performance and determining the highest and best use of the assets or interests acquired. In addition, following the adoption of this standard, acquisitionAcquisition costs are expensed as incurred.

Revenue Recognition

We recognize revenue when we have a contract or purchase order from a customer with a fixed price, the title and risk of loss transfer to the buyer and collectibility is reasonably assured. Title for both metal and finished steel products

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  41


transfers based on contract terms. A significant portion of our ferrous export sales of recycled metal are made with letters of credit, reducing credit risk. However, domestic recycled ferrous metal sales, nonferrous sales and sales of finished steel are generally made on open account. Nonferrous export sales typically require a deposit prior to shipment. All sales made on open account are evaluated for collectibility prior to revenue recognition. Additionally, we recognize revenues on partially loaded shipments when detailed documents support revenue recognition based on transfer of title and risk of loss.loss we recognize revenues on partially loaded shipments, which requires an estimate of the product weight involved in any partial shipments at period end. For APB, retail revenues are recognized when customers pay for parts and wholesale product revenues are recognized when customer weight certificates are received following shipment. Historically, there have been very few sales returns and adjustments that impact the ultimate collection of revenues; therefore, no material provisions have been made when the sale is recognized. We present taxes assessed by governmental authorities collected from customers on a net basis. Therefore, the taxes are excluded from revenue and are shown as a liability on our consolidated balance sheetsheets until remitted. See the discussion on credit risk contained in Item 7a7A of this report.

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest
We have issued redeemable common stock to the noncontrolling interest holder of one of our subsidiaries that is redeemable both at the option of the holder and upon the occurrence of an event that is not solely within our control. If the interest were to be redeemed, we would be required to purchase all of such interest at fair value on the date of redemption. We estimate fair value using Level 3 inputs under the fair value hierarchy based on standard valuation techniques using a discounted cash flow analysis. Any adjustments to the carrying amount of the redeemable noncontrolling interest prior to exercise of the redemption option will be recorded to equity. Since redemption of the noncontrolling interest is outside of our control, these interests are presented on the consolidated balance sheets in the mezzanine section under the caption “Redeemable noncontrolling interests.”
The determination of fair value requires management to apply significant judgment in formulating estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions primarily include forecasts of future cash flows based on management’s best estimate of future sales and operating costs; pricing expectations; capital expenditures; working capital requirements; discount rates; growth rates; tax rates and general market conditions. As a result of the inherent uncertainty associated with forming these estimates, actual results could differ from those estimates.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards

For a description of recent accounting pronouncements that may have an impact on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows, see Note 3 – Recent Accounting Pronouncements in the notesNotes to the consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements in Part II, Item 8 of this report.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures

Debt, net of cash

Debt, net of cash is the difference between (i) the sum of long-term debt and short-term debt (i.e., total debt) and (ii) cash and cash equivalents. Management believes that debt, net of cash is a useful measure for investors. In management’s view,investors because, as cash and cash equivalents can be used, among other things, to repay indebtedness, netting this against total debt is a useful measure of our leverage.


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The following is a reconciliation of debt, net of cash (in thousands):
 August 31, 2011 August 31, 2010 August 31, 2009
Short-term borrowings and capital lease obligations, current$643
 $1,189
 $1,317
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of current maturities403,287
 99,240
 110,414
Total debt403,930
 100,429
 111,731
Less: cash and cash equivalents49,462
 30,342
 41,026
Total debt, net of cash$354,468
 $70,087
 $70,705
Net borrowings (repayment) of debt
Net borrowings (repayment) of debt is the sum of borrowings from long-term debt, repayments of long-term debt, proceeds from line of credit, and repayment of line of credit. Management presents this amount as the net change in the Company’s borrowings for the period because it believes it is useful for investors as a meaningful presentation of the change in debt.
($ in thousands)Fiscal 2011 Fiscal 2010 Fiscal 2009
Borrowings from long-term debt$811,531
 $577,900
 $440,500
Proceeds from line of credit655,500
 402,600
 331,700
Repayment of long-term debt(508,675) (589,242) (491,329)
Repayment of line of credit(655,500) (402,600) (356,700)
Net borrowings (repayment) of debt$302,856
 $(11,342) $(75,829)
Management believes that thisthese non-GAAP financial measure allowsmeasures allow for a better understanding of our operating and financial performance. ThisThese non-GAAP financial measuremeasures should be considered in addition to, but not as a substitute for, the most directly comparable USU.S. GAAP measure. The following is a reconciliation of debt, net of cash (in thousands):

   August 31,
2010
   August 31,
2009
   August 31,
2008
 

Short-term borrowings and capital lease obligations, current

  $1,189    $1,317    $25,490  

Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of current maturities

   99,240     110,414     158,933  
               

Total debt

   100,429     111,731     184,423  

Less: cash and cash equivalents

   30,342     41,026     15,039  
               

Total debt, net of cash

  $70,087    $70,705    $169,384  
               

measures.



4237 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 20102011


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ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Commodity Price Risk

We are exposed to commodity price risk, mainly associated with variations in the market price for finished steel products, ferrous and nonferrous metals, including scrap metal, autobodies and other commodities. The timing and magnitude of industry cycles are difficult to predict and are impacted by general economic conditions. We respond to increases and decreases in forward selling prices by adjusting purchase prices on a timely basis. We actively manage our exposure to commodity price risk and monitor the actual and expected spread between forward selling prices and purchase costs and processing and shipping expense. Sales contracts are based on prices negotiated with our customers, and generally orders are placed 30 to 9060 days ahead of shipment date. However, financial results may be negatively impacted when forward selling prices fall more quickly than we can adjust purchase prices or when customers fail to meet their contractual obligations. We assess the net realizable value of inventory (“NRV”) each quarter based upon contracted sales orders and estimated future selling prices. Based on contracted sales and estimates of future selling prices at August 31, 2011 and 2010, a 10% decrease in the selling price per ton of finished steel products would causehave caused an NRV inventory write down of approximately $3$3 million at SMB.

Interest Rate Risk

We are exposed to market risk associated with changes in interest rates related to our debt obligations. Our credit line and revolving credit facility are subject to variable in rateinterest rates and therefore have exposure to changes in interest rates. If market interest rates had changed 10% from actual interest rate levels in fiscal 20102011 or 2009,2010, the effect on our interest expense and net income would not have been material.

Credit Risk

Credit risk relates to the risk of loss that might occur as a result of non-performance by counterparties of their contractual obligations to take delivery of scrap metal and finished steel products and to make financial settlements of these obligations. We manage our exposure to credit risk through a variety of methods, including shipping ferrous scrap metal exports under letters of credit, collection of deposits prior to shipment for certain nonferrous export customers and establishment of credit limits for sales on open terms.

MRB generally ships ferrous bulk sales to foreign customers under contracts supported by letters of credit issued or confirmed by banks it deems credit worthy.creditworthy. The letters of credit ensure payment by the customer. As MRB generally sells its export recycled ferrous metal under contracts or orders that generally provide for shipment within 30 to 9060 days after the price is agreed, MRB’s customers typically do not have difficulty obtaining letters of credit from their banks in periods of rising ferrous prices, as the value of the letters of credit are collateralized by the value of the inventory on the ship. However, in periods of significantly declining prices, MRB’s customers may not be able to obtain letters of credit for the full sales value of the inventory to be shipped. As such, we may need to extend credit on open terms for the difference between the sales value under the contract and the value supported by the letter of credit. In addition, we could be exposed to loss if a customer fails to pay or the bank providing the letter of credit fails.

As of August 31, 20102011 and 2009, 43%2010, 44% and 49%43%, respectively, of our trade accounts receivable balance was covered by letters of credit. Of the remaining balance as of August 31, 2010, 89%2011, 93% was less than 60 days past due, compared to 85%89% as of August 31, 2009.

2010.



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ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the Company’s principal executive and principal financial officers and effected by the Company’s Board of Directors, management and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

The Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes policies and procedures that relate to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of assets of the Company; provide reasonable assurance that all transactions are recorded as necessary to permit the preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and that the proper authorization of receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made in accordance with authorization of the Company’s management and directors; and provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projection of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods is subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or that the degree of compliance with the policies and procedures may deteriorate.

Management of the Company assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting using the criteria established inInternal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Based on its assessment, management determined that the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of August 31, 2010.2011

.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, the independent registered public accounting firm that audited the Company’s consolidated financial statements included in this Annual Report, also audited the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of August 31, 2010,2011, as stated in their report included herein.


Tamara L. Lundgren

  Richard D. Peach

President and Chief Executive Officer

  Sr.Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

October 20, 2010

2011
  October 20, 20102011



4439 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 20102011


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Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc.:

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements listed in the accompanying index present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. and its subsidiaries as of August 31, 20102011 and 2009,2010, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended August 31, 20102011 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule listed in the accompanying index presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of August 31, 2010,2011, based on criteria established inInternal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for these financial statements and financial statement schedule, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express opinions on these financial statements, on the financial statement schedule, and on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our integrated audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

As discussed in Note 7 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed the manner in which it accounts for business combinations as of September 1, 2009. As discussed in Note 3 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed the manner in which it accounts for noncontrolling interests as of September 1, 2009.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness as to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Portland, Oregon

October 20, 2010

2011



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SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(in thousands)

   August 31, 
   2010  2009 
Assets   

Current assets:

   

Cash and cash equivalents

  $30,342   $41,026  

Accounts receivable, net

   126,156    117,666  

Inventories, net

   268,103    184,455  

Deferred income taxes

   9,037    10,027  

Refundable income taxes

   14,610    46,972  

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

   12,546    10,868  
         

Total current assets

   460,794    411,014  

Property, plant and equipment, net

   460,810    447,228  

Other assets:

   

Investments in joint venture partnerships

   13,706    10,812  

Goodwill

   380,332    366,559  

Intangibles, net

   20,444    20,422  

Other assets

   7,332    12,198  
         

Total assets

  $1,343,418   $1,268,233  
         
Liabilities and Equity   

Current liabilities:

   

Long-term debt and capital lease obligations

  $1,189   $1,317  

Accounts payable

   91,879    72,289  

Accrued payroll and related liabilities

   34,162    23,636  

Environmental liabilities

   2,588    3,148  

Accrued income taxes

   1,816    776  

Other accrued liabilities

   28,479    38,963  
         

Total current liabilities

   160,113    140,129  

Deferred income taxes

   58,630    44,523  

Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of current maturities

   99,240    110,414  

Environmental liabilities, net of current portion

   37,286    38,760  

Other long-term liabilities

   8,517    11,657  
         

Total liabilities

   363,786    345,483  
         

Commitments and contingencies (Note 12)

   

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. (“SSI”) shareholders’ equity:

   

Preferred stock – 20,000 shares $1.00 par value authorized, none issued

   0    0  

Class A common stock – 75,000 shares $1.00 par value authorized,

   

22,700 and 21,402 shares issued and outstanding

   22,700    21,402  

Class B common stock – 25,000 shares $1.00 par value authorized,

   

4,721 and 6,268 shares issued and outstanding

   4,721    6,268  

Additional paid-in capital

   1,815    0  

Retained earnings

   948,642    894,243  

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

   (2,552  (2,546
         

Total SSI shareholders’ equity

   975,326    919,367  

Noncontrolling interests

   4,306    3,383  
         

Total equity

   979,632    922,750  
         

Total liabilities and equity

  $1,343,418   $1,268,233  
         

 August 31,
 2011 2010
Assets   
Current assets:   
Cash and cash equivalents$49,462
 $30,342
Accounts receivable, net229,975
 126,156
Inventories, net335,120
 268,103
Deferred income taxes11,784
 9,037
Refundable income taxes3,541
 14,610
Prepaid expenses and other current assets24,117
 12,546
Total current assets653,999
 460,794
Property, plant and equipment, net555,284
 460,810
Investments in joint venture partnerships17,208
 13,706
Goodwill627,805
 380,332
Intangibles, net20,906
 20,444
Other assets14,967
 7,332
Total assets$1,890,169
 $1,343,418
Liabilities and Equity   
Current liabilities:   
Short-term borrowings and capital lease obligations, current$643
 $1,189
Accounts payable141,011
 91,879
Accrued payroll and related liabilities36,475
 34,162
Environmental liabilities2,983
 2,588
Accrued income taxes13,833
 1,816
Other accrued liabilities38,368
 28,479
Total current liabilities233,313
 160,113
Deferred income taxes85,378
 58,630
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of current maturities403,287
 99,240
Environmental liabilities, net of current portion37,872
 37,286
Other long-term liabilities10,030
 8,517
Total liabilities769,880
 363,786
Commitments and contingencies (Note 11)
 
Redeemable noncontrolling interest19,053
 
Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. (“SSI”) shareholders’ equity:   
Preferred stock – 20,000 shares $1.00 par value authorized, none issued
 
Class A common stock – 75,000 shares $1.00 par value authorized,   
24,241 and 22,700 shares issued and outstanding24,241
 22,700
Class B common stock – 25,000 shares $1.00 par value authorized,   
3,060 and 4,721 shares issued and outstanding3,060
 4,721
Additional paid-in capital762
 1,815
Retained earnings1,065,109
 948,642
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)1,540
 (2,552)
Total SSI shareholders’ equity1,094,712
 975,326
Noncontrolling interests6,524
 4,306
Total equity1,101,236
 979,632
Total liabilities and equity$1,890,169
 $1,343,418

See Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements



4641 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 20102011


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SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(in thousands, except per share amounts)

   Year Ended August 31, 
   2010  2009  2008 

Revenues

  $2,301,240   $1,787,230   $3,516,950  

Operating expense:

    

Cost of goods sold

   2,019,764    1,681,942    2,911,334  

Selling, general and administrative

   158,805    163,410    214,533  

Environmental matters

   (91  (5,809  (446

Income from joint ventures

   (3,135  (1,189  (11,706
             

Operating income (loss)

   125,897    (51,124  403,235  

Other income (expense):

    

Interest income

   459    1,179    748  

Interest expense

   (2,343  (3,342  (8,649

Other income, net

   1,320    6,223    1,887  
             

Total other income (expense)

   (564  4,060    (6,014
             

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes

   125,333    (47,064  397,221  

Income tax (expense) benefit

   (40,825  19,915    (142,568
             

Income (loss) from continuing operations

   84,508    (27,149  254,653  

Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax

   (13,832  (4,214  (613
             

Net income (loss)

   70,676    (31,363  254,040  

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

   (3,926  (866  (5,357
             

Net income (loss) attributable to SSI

  $66,750   $(32,229 $248,683  
             

Basic:

    

Income (loss) per share from continuing operations attributable to SSI

  $2.90   $(0.99 $8.81  

Loss per share from discontinued operations attributable to SSI

   (0.50  (0.15  (0.02
             

Net income (loss) per share attributable to SSI

  $2.40   $(1.14 $8.79  
             

Diluted:

    

Income (loss) per share from continuing operations attributable to SSI

  $2.86   $(0.99 $8.63  

Loss per share from discontinued operations attributable to SSI

   (0.49  (0.15  (0.02
             

Net income (loss) per share attributable to SSI

  $2.37   $(1.14 $8.61  
             

Weighted average number of common shares:

    

Basic

   27,832    28,159    28,278  

Diluted

   28,147    28,159    28,894  

Dividends declared per common share

  $0.068   $0.068   $0.068  

 Year Ended August 31,
 2011 2010 2009
Revenues$3,459,194
 $2,301,240
 $1,787,230
Operating expense:     
Cost of goods sold3,072,165
 2,019,764
 1,681,942
Selling, general and administrative205,025
 158,805
 163,410
Environmental matters662
 (91) (5,809)
Income from joint ventures(4,622) (3,135) (1,189)
Operating income (loss)185,964
 125,897
 (51,124)
Other income (expense):     
Interest income384
 459
 1,179
Interest expense(8,436) (2,343) (3,342)
Other income, net2,893
 1,320
 6,223
Total other income (expense)(5,159) (564) 4,060
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes180,805
 125,333
 (47,064)
Income tax (expense) benefit(57,168) (40,825) 19,915
Income (loss) from continuing operations123,637
 84,508
 (27,149)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax(101) (13,832) (4,214)
Net income (loss)123,536
 70,676
 (31,363)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests(5,181) (3,926) (866)
Net income (loss) attributable to SSI$118,355
 $66,750
 $(32,229)
Basic:     
Income (loss) per share from continuing operations attributable to SSI$4.28
 $2.90
 $(0.99)
Loss per share from discontinued operations
 (0.50) (0.15)
Net income (loss) per share attributable to SSI$4.28
 $2.40
 $(1.14)
Diluted:     
Income (loss) per share from continuing operations attributable to SSI$4.24
 $2.86
 $(0.99)
Loss per share from discontinued operations(0.01) (0.49) (0.15)
Net income (loss) per share attributable to SSI$4.23
 $2.37
 $(1.14)
Weighted average number of common shares:     
Basic27,649
 27,832
 28,159
Diluted27,959
 28,147
 28,159
Dividends declared per common share$0.068
 $0.068
 $0.068

See Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements



42 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  472011


Table of Contents

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY

(in thousands)
 Common Stock 
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
 
Retained
Earnings
 
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (loss)
 
Total SSI
Shareholders’
Equity
 
Noncontrolling
Interests
 
Total
Equity
Class A Class B 
Shares Amount Shares Amount 
Balance as of August 31, 200821,592
 $21,592
 6,345
 $6,345
 $11,425
 $939,181
 $(391) $978,152
 $4,399
 $982,551
Net income (loss)
 
 
 
 
 (32,229) 
 (32,229) 866
 (31,363)
Foreign currency translation adjustment (net of tax benefit of $268)
 
 
 
 
 
 (358) (358) 
 (358)
Pension obligations, net (net of tax benefit of $796)
 
 
 
 
 
 (1,260) (1,260) 
 (1,260)
Change in net unrealized loss on cash flow hedges (net of tax benefit of $313)
 
 
 
 
 
 (537) (537) 
 (537)
Comprehensive income (loss)              (34,384) 866
 (33,518)
Distributions to noncontrolling interests
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 (1,286) (1,286)
Noncontrolling interest buyout
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 (596) (596)
Share repurchases(600) (600) 
 
 (18,495) (10,801) 
 (29,896) 
 (29,896)
Class A common stock issued106
 106
 
 
 (106) 
 
 
 
 
Restricted stock withheld for taxes(132) (132) 
 
 (3,863) 
 
 (3,995) 
 (3,995)
Issuance of restricted stock239
 239
 
 
 (239) 
 
 
 
 
Stock options exercised120
 120
 
 
 1,561
 
 
 1,681
 
 1,681
Class B common stock converted to Class A common stock77
 77
 (77) (77) 
 
 
 
 
 
Share-based compensation expense
 
 
 
 8,898
 
 
 8,898
 
 8,898
Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements
 
 
 
 819
 
 
 819
 
 819
Cash dividends ($0.068 per share)
 
 
 
 
 (1,908) 
 (1,908) 
 (1,908)
Balance as of August 31, 200921,402
 21,402
 6,268
 6,268
 
 894,243
 (2,546) 919,367
 3,383
 922,750
Net income
 
 
 
 
 66,750
 
 66,750
 3,926
 70,676
Foreign currency translation adjustment (net of tax of $210)
 
 
 
 
 
 523
 523
 
 523
Pension obligations, net (net of tax benefit of $550)
 
 
 
 
 
 (949) (949) 
 (949)
Change in net unrealized gain on cash flow hedges (net of tax of $247)
 
 
 
 
 
 420
 420
 
 420
Comprehensive income              66,744
 3,926
 70,670
Distributions to noncontrolling interests
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 (3,003) (3,003)
Share repurchases(413) (413) 
 
 (6,266) (10,468) 
 (17,147) 
 (17,147)
Class A common stock issued13
 13
 
 
 (13) 
 
 
 
 
Restricted stock withheld for taxes(81) (81) 
 
 (3,518) 
 
 (3,599) 
 (3,599)
Issuance of restricted stock196
 196
 
 
 (196) 
 
 
 
 
Stock options exercised36
 36
 
 
 901
 
 
 937
 
 937
Class B common stock converted to Class A common stock1,547
 1,547
 (1,547) (1,547) 
 
 
 
 
 
Share-based compensation expense
 
 
 
 11,035
 
 
 11,035
 
 11,035
Excess tax deficiency from stock options exercised and restricted stock units vested
 
 
 
 (128) 
 
 (128) 
 (128)
Cash dividends ($0.068 per share)
 
 
 
 
 (1,883) 
 (1,883) 
 (1,883)

43

  Common Stock  

Additional

Paid-in

Capital

  

Retained

Earnings

  

Accumulated

Other

Comprehensive

Income (loss)

  

Total SSI

Shareholders’

Equity

  

Noncontrolling

Interests

  

Total

Equity

 
 Class A  Class B       
 Shares  Amount  Shares  Amount       

Balance as of August 31, 2007

  21,231   $21,231    7,328   $7,328   $41,344   $693,470   $1,691   $765,064   $5,373   $770,437  

Net income

  0    0    0    0    0    248,683    0    248,683    5,357    254,040  

Foreign currency translation adjustment (net of tax benefit of $194)

  0    0    0    0    0    0    (251  (251  0    (251

Pension obligations, net (net of tax benefit of $939)

  0    0    0    0    0    0    (1,831  (1,831  0    (1,831
                   

Comprehensive income

         246,601    5,357    251,958  

Distributions to noncontrolling interests

  0    0    0    0    0    0    0    0    (4,705  (4,705

Noncontrolling interest buyout

  0    0    0    0    0    0    0    0    (1,626  (1,626

Cummulative effect related to adoption of tax standard

  0    0    0    0    0    (1,055  0    (1,055  0    (1,055

Share repurchases

  (694  (694  0    0    (44,165  0    0    (44,859  0    (44,859

Class A common stock issued

  8    8    0    0    527    0    0    535    0    535  

Restricted stock withheld for taxes

  (22  (22  0    0    (2,212  0    0    (2,234  0    (2,234

Issuance of restricted stock

  60    60    0    0    (60  0    0    0    0    0  

Stock options exercised and restricted stock units vested

  26    26    0    0    497    0    0    523    0    523  

Class B common stock converted to Class A common stock

  983    983    (983  (983  0    0    0    0    0    0  

Share-based compensation expense

  0    0    0    0    14,487    0    0    14,487    0    14,487  

Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements

  0    0    0    0    1,007    0    0    1,007    0    1,007  

Cash dividends ($0.068 per share)

  0    0    0    0    0    (1,917  0    (1,917  0    (1,917
                                        

Balance as of August 31, 2008

  21,592    21,592    6,345    6,345    11,425    939,181    (391  978,152    4,399    982,551  

Net income (loss)

  0    0    0    0    0    (32,229  0    (32,229  866    (31,363

Foreign currency translation adjustment (net of tax benefit of $268)

  0    0    0    0    0    0    (358  (358  0    (358

Pension obligations, net (net of tax benefit of $796)

  0    0    0    0    0    0    (1,260  (1,260  0    (1,260

Change in net unrealized loss on cash flow hedges (net of tax benefit of $313)

  0    0    0    0    0    0    (537  (537  0    (537
                   

Comprehensive income (loss)

         (34,384  866    (33,518

Distributions to noncontrolling interests

  0    0    0    0    0    0    0    0    (1,286  (1,286

Noncontrolling interest buyout

  0    0    0    0    0    0    0    0    (596  (596

Share repurchases

  (600  (600  0    0    (18,495  (10,801  0    (29,896  0    (29,896

Class A common stock issued

  106    106    0    0    (106  0    0    0    0    0  

Restricted stock withheld for taxes

  (132  (132  0    0    (3,863  0    0    (3,995  0    (3,995

Issuance of restricted stock

  239    239    0    0    (239  0    0    0    0    0  

Stock options exercised

  120    120    0    0    1,561    0    0    1,681    0    1,681  

Class B common stock converted to Class A common stock

  77    77    (77  (77  0    0    0    0    0    0  

Share-based compensation expense

  0    0    0    0    8,898    0    0    8,898    0    8,898  

Excess tax benefits from share-based payment arrangements

  0    0    0    0    819    0    0    819    0    819  

Cash dividends ($0.068 per share)

  0    0    0    0    0    (1,908  0    (1,908  0    (1,908
                                        

Balance as of August 31, 2009

  21,402    21,402    6,268    6,268    0    894,243    (2,546  919,367    3,383    922,750  

Net income

  0    0    0    0    0    66,750    0    66,750    3,926    70,676  

Foreign currency translation adjustment (net of tax of $210)

  0    0    0    0    0    0    523    523    0    523  

Pension obligations, net (net of tax benefit of $550)

  0    0    0    0    0    0    (949  (949  0    (949

Change in net unrealized gain on cash flow hedges (net of tax of $247)

  0    0    0    0    0    0    420    420    0    420  
                   

Comprehensive income

         66,744    3,926    70,670  

Distributions to noncontrolling interests

  0    0    0    0    0    0    0    0    (3,003  (3,003

Share repurchases

  (413  (413  0    0    (6,266  (10,468  0    (17,147  0    (17,147

Class A common stock issued

  13    13    0    0    (13  0    0    0    0    0  

Restricted stock withheld for taxes

  (81  (81  0    0    (3,518  0    0    (3,599  0    (3,599

Issuance of restricted stock

  196    196    0    0    (196  0    0    0    0    0  

Stock options exercised

  36    36    0    0    901    0    0    937    0    937  

Class B common stock converted to Class A common stock

  1,547    1,547    (1,547  (1,547  0    0    0    0    0    0  

Share-based compensation expense

  0    0    0    0    11,035    0    0    11,035    0    11,035  

Excess tax deficiency from stock options exercised and restricted stock units vested

  0    0    0    0    (128  0    0    (128  0    (128

Cash dividends ($0.068 per share)

  0    0    0    0    0    (1,883  0    (1,883  0    (1,883
                                        

Balance as of August 31, 2010

  22,700   $22,700    4,721   $4,721   $1,815   $948,642   $(2,552 $975,326   $4,306   $979,632  
                                        

/ Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011



 Common Stock 
Additional
Paid-in
Capital
 
Retained
Earnings
 
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (loss)
 
Total SSI
Shareholders’
Equity
 
Noncontrolling
Interests
 
Total
Equity
Class A Class B 
Shares Amount Shares Amount 
Balance as of August 31, 201022,700
 22,700
 4,721
 4,721
 1,815
 948,642
 (2,552) 975,326
 4,306
 979,632
Net income(1)

 
 
 
 
 118,355
 
 118,355
 5,081
 123,436
Foreign currency translation adjustment (net of tax of $876)(2)

 
 
 
 
 
 3,032
 3,032
 
 3,032
Pension obligations, net (net of tax of $564)
 
 
 
 
 
 969
 969
 
 969
Change in net unrealized gain on cash flow hedges (net of tax of $52)
 
 
 
 
 
 91
 91
 
 91
Comprehensive income              122,447
 5,081
 127,528
Distributions to noncontrolling interests
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 (2,863) (2,863)
Share repurchases(254) (254) 
 
 (10,049) 
 
 (10,303) 
 (10,303)
Restricted stock withheld for taxes(70) (70) 
 
 (3,730) 
 
 (3,800) 
 (3,800)
Issuance of restricted stock185
 185
 
 
 (185) 
 
 
 
 
Stock options exercised19
 19
 
 
 548
 
 
 567
 
 567
Class B common stock converted to Class A common stock1,661
 1,661
 (1,661) (1,661) 
 
 
 
 
 
Share-based compensation expense
 
 
 
 12,830
 
 
 12,830
 
 12,830
Excess tax deficiency from stock options exercised and restricted stock units vested
 
 
 
 (467) 
 
 (467) 
 (467)
Cash dividends ($0.068 per share)
 
 
 
 
 (1,888) 
 (1,888) 
 (1,888)
Balance as of August 31, 201124,241
 $24,241
 3,060
 $3,060
 $762
 $1,065,109
 $1,540
 $1,094,712
 $6,524
 $1,101,236
_____________________________ 
(1)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests at August 31, 2011 excludes $100 thousand allocable to the redeemable noncontrolling interest, which is reported in the mezzanine section of the Consolidated Balance Sheets at August 31, 2011. See Note 12 - Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest for further detail.
(2)
Foreign currency translation adjustments exclude $509 thousand relating to redeemable noncontrolling interests for the year ended August 31, 2011, which is reported in the mezzanine section of the Consolidated Balance Sheets at August 31, 2011. See Note 12 - Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest for further detail.


See Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements


4844 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 20102011



SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(in thousands)

   Year Ended August 31, 
   2010  2009  2008 

Cash flows from operating activities:

    

Net income (loss)

  $70,676   $(31,363 $254,040  

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash provided by operating activities:

    

Depreciation and amortization

   63,418    60,681    51,362  

Inventory write-down

   368    51,968    48,967  

Deferred income taxes

   10,891    24,727    2,582  

Undistributed equity in earnings of joint ventures

   (3,076  (537  (12,277

Share-based compensation expense

   11,035    8,898    14,487  

Excess tax (benefit) deficiency from share-based payment arrangements

   128    (819  (1,007

(Gain) loss on disposal of a business and other assets

   16,943    (2,034  414  

Environmental matters

   (1,391  (3,510  (603

Voluntary incentive award forfeitures

   0    (5,504  0  

Unrealized (gain) loss on derivatives

   (4,299  1,161    2,541  

Bad debt expense (recoveries), net

   (255  8,916    4,445  

Gain on settlement of joint venture separation and termination agreement

   0    (6,761  0  

Changes in assets and liabilities:

    

Accounts receivable

   (11,569  189,511    (135,140

Inventories

   (109,138  198,840    (215,812

Refundable income taxes

   32,237    (46,147  881  

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

   (2,640  4,185    (3,756

Intangibles and other long-term assets

   (206  (4,514  (3,564

Accounts payable

   8,479    (79,086  54,108  

Accrued payroll liabilities

   12,010    (35,851  21,251  

Other accrued liabilities

   (2,519  (4,858  15,396  

Accrued income taxes

   1,040    (41,998  38,162  

Environmental liabilities

   (944  (577  (1,243

Other long-term liabilities

   (2,128  (1,574  (320

Distributed equity in earnings of joint ventures

   430    3,825    6,850  
             

Net cash provided by operating activities

   89,490    287,579    141,764  
             

Cash flows from investing activities:

    

Capital expenditures

   (64,324  (59,044  (84,262

Acquisitions, net of cash acquired

   (40,944  (93,053  (46,888

(Advances to) payments from joint ventures, net

   (340  (1,876  3,092  

Proceeds from sale of business and other assets

   41,319    3,497    917  

Cash flows used in non-hedge derivatives

   0    0    (822
             

Net cash used in investing activities

   (64,289  (150,476  (127,963
             

Cash flows from financing activities:

    

Proceeds from line of credit

   402,600    331,700    490,500  

Repayment of line of credit

   (402,600  (356,700  (485,500

Borrowings from long-term debt

   577,900    440,500    1,414,600  

Repayment of long-term debt

   (589,242  (491,329  (1,379,946

Repurchase of Class A common stock

   (17,147  (29,896  (44,859

Stock withheld for taxes under employee share-based compensation plan

   (3,599  (3,995  (2,234

Excess tax benefit (deficiency) from share-based payment arrangements

   (128  819    1,007  

Stock options exercised and restricted stock units vested

   937    1,681    523  

Distributions to noncontrolling interests

   (3,003  (1,286  (4,705

Dividends paid

   (1,416  (2,386  (1,434
             

Net cash used in financing activities

   (35,698  (110,892  (12,048
             

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

   (187  (224  (124

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

   (10,684  25,987    1,629  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

   41,026    15,039    13,410  
             

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

  $30,342   $41,026   $15,039  
             

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES:

    

Cash paid (received) during the year for:

    

Interest

  $2,569   $3,329   $8,400  

Income taxes paid (refunds received), net

  $(3,783 $42,443   $97,825  

 Year Ended August 31,
 2011 2010 2009
Cash flows from operating activities:     
Net income (loss)$123,536
 $70,676
 $(31,363)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash provided by operating activities:     
Depreciation and amortization74,866
 63,418
 60,681
Inventory write-down
 368
 51,968
Deferred income taxes21,004
 10,891
 24,727
Undistributed equity in earnings of joint ventures(4,622) (3,076) (537)
Share-based compensation expense13,655
 11,035
 8,898
Excess tax benefit from share-based payment arrangements(689) 128
 (819)
Loss (gain) on disposal of a business and other assets1,529
 16,943
 (2,034)
Environmental matters662
 (1,391) (3,510)
Voluntary incentive award forfeitures
 
 (5,504)
Net (gain) loss on derivatives(772) (4,299) 1,161
Unrealized foreign exchange loss, net758
 
 
Bad debt expense (recoveries), net334
 (255) 8,916
Gain on settlement of joint venture separation and termination agreement
 
 (6,761)
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:     
Accounts receivable(91,715) (11,569) 189,511
Inventories(45,268) (109,138) 198,840
Refundable income taxes520
 32,237
 (46,147)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets(11,486) (2,640) 4,185
Intangibles and other long-term assets(133) (206) (4,514)
Accounts payable45,447
 8,479
 (79,086)
Accrued payroll and related liabilities2,276
 12,010
 (35,851)
Other accrued liabilities(15,676) (2,519) (4,858)
Accrued income taxes22,183
 1,040
 (41,998)
Environmental liabilities(759) (944) (577)
Other long-term liabilities(167) (2,128) (1,574)
Distributed equity in earnings of joint ventures4,980
 430
 3,825
Net cash provided by operating activities140,463
 89,490
 287,579
Cash flows from investing activities:     
Capital expenditures(104,964) (64,324) (59,044)
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired(293,880) (40,944) (93,053)
Joint venture payments, net(1,587) (340) (1,876)
Proceeds from sale of business and other assets530
 41,319
 3,497
Net cash used in investing activities(399,901) (64,289) (150,476)
Cash flows from financing activities:     
Proceeds from line of credit655,500
 402,600
 331,700
Repayment of line of credit(655,500) (402,600) (356,700)
Borrowings from long-term debt811,531
 577,900
 440,500
Repayment of long-term debt(508,675) (589,242) (491,329)
Debt financing fees(5,310) 
 
Repurchase of Class A common stock(10,303) (17,147) (29,896)
Taxes paid related to net share settlement of share-based payment arrangements(3,800) (3,599) (3,995)
Excess tax benefit from share-based payment arrangements689
 (128) 819
Stock options exercised567
 937
 1,681
Distributions to noncontrolling interests(2,863) (3,003) (1,286)
Dividends paid(1,885) (1,416) (2,386)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities279,951
 (35,698) (110,892)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash(1,393) (187) (224)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents19,120
 (10,684) 25,987
Cash and cash equivalents as of beginning of year30,342
 41,026
 15,039
Cash and cash equivalents as of end of year$49,462
 $30,342
 $41,026
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES:     
Cash paid (received) during the year for:     
Interest$7,072
 $2,569
 $3,329
Income taxes paid (refunds received), net$14,330
 $(3,783) $42,443
See Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements


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SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


Note 1 – Nature of Operations

Founded in 1906, Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. (the “Company”), an Oregon corporation, is currently one of the nation’s largest recyclers of ferrous and nonferrous scrap metal, a leading recycler of used and salvaged vehicles and a manufacturer of finished steel products.

The Company operates in three reporting segments that includeas follows: the Metals Recycling Business (“MRB”), the Auto Parts Business (“APB”) and the Steel Manufacturing Business (“SMB”). MRB buys, collects, processes, recycles, sells and brokers recycled metal by operating one of the largest metal recycling businesses in the United States (“US”U.S.”). APB is one of the country’s leading self-service used auto parts networks. Additionally, APB is a supplier of autobodies to MRB, which processes the autobodies into sellable recycled metal. SMB purchases recycled metal from MRB and uses its mini-mill to process the recycled metal into finished steel products. The Company provides an end-of-life cycle solution for a variety of products through its cross-divisional synergies, including sale of used auto parts, procuring autobodies and other metal products, recycling them into scrap metal and manufacturing them into finished steel products.

As of August 31, 2010,2011, all of the Company’s facilities were located in the USU.S. and its territories and Canada.

Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Principles of Consolidation

The consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements include the accounts of the Company and its majority-owned and wholly-owned subsidiaries. In addition,The equity method of accounting is used for investments in joint ventures over which the Company holds a 50% interest in five joint ventures which are accounted for under the equity method.has significant influence but does not have effective control. All significant intercompany account balances, transactions, profits and losses have been eliminated as of August 31, 2010 and 2009 and for the years ended August 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008.

eliminated.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include short-term securities that are not restricted by third parties and have an original maturity date of 90 days or less. Included in accounts payable are book overdrafts of $25$40 million and $23$25 million as of August 31, 20102011 and 2009,2010, respectively.

Accounts Receivable, net

Accounts receivable represent amounts due from customers on product and other sales. These accounts receivable, which are reduced by an allowance for doubtful accounts, are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest. The Company evaluates the collectibility of its accounts receivable based on a combination of factors, including whether sales were made pursuant to letters of credit. In cases where management is aware of circumstances that may impair a specific customer’s ability to meet its financial obligations, management records a specific allowance against amounts due and reduces the net recognized receivable to the amount the Company believes will be collected. For all other customers, the Company maintains a reserve that considers the total receivables outstanding, historical collection rates and economic trends. Accounts are written off when all efforts to collect have been exhausted. The allowance for doubtful accounts was $6$6 million and $8 million as of August 31, 20102011 and 2009, respectively.

2010.

Inventories, net

The Company’s inventories primarily consist of scrap metal (ferrous, nonferrous, processed and unprocessed), nonferrous recovered joint product (nonferrous arising from the manufacturing process), used and salvaged vehicles, semi-finished steel products (billets) and finished steel products (primarily rebar, merchant bar and wire rod). Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. MRB determines the cost of ferrous and nonferrous inventories principally using the average cost method and capitalizes substantially all direct costs and yard costs into inventory. MRB allocates material and production costs to joint products using the gross margin method. APB determines the cost for used and salvaged vehicle inventory based on the average price the Company pays for a vehicle and capitalizes the vehicle cost into inventory. SMB determines the cost of its finished steel product inventory based on weighted average costs and capitalizes all direct and indirect costs of manufacturing into inventory. Indirect costs of manufacturing include general plant costs, maintenance and yard

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

costs. The Company evaluates whether its inventory is properly valued at the lower of cost or market on a quarterly basis. The Company considers estimated future selling prices when determining the estimated net realizable value for its inventory. However, asAs MRB generally sells its export recycled ferrous metal under contracts that provide for shipment within 30 to 9060 days after the price is agreed, it utilizes the selling prices under committed contracts and sales orders for determining the estimated market price of quantities on hand that will be shipped under these contracts and orders.

The Company performs periodic physical inventories to verify the quantity of inventory on hand. Due to variations in product density, holding period and production processes utilized to manufacture the product, physical inventories will not necessarily detect all variances.variances for metal inventory such that estimates of quantities are required. To mitigate this risk, the Company adjusts its ferrous physical inventories when the volume of a commodity is low and a physical inventory count can more accurately predict

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


the remaining volume.

Property, Plant and Equipment, net

Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost. Expenditures for major additions and improvements are capitalized, while routine repair and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred. Capitalized interest for fiscal 2010, 2009Interest related to the construction of qualifying assets is capitalized as part of the construction costs, and 2008 was not material.material to any of the periods presented. When assets are retired or sold, the related cost and accumulated depreciation are removed from the accounts and resulting gains or losses are generally included in operating expenses. Depreciation is recorded on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Leasehold improvements are amortized over the shorter of their estimated useful lives of the property or the remaining lease term, whichever is less.

term.

As of August 31, 2010,2011, the useful lives used for depreciation and amortization were as follows:

 

Useful life

(in years)

Weighted average

useful life

(in years)

Machinery and equipment

3 to 4013

Land improvements

3 to 3513

Buildings and leasehold improvements

5 to 4024

Office equipment

2 to 206

ERPEnterprise Resource Planning (“ERP”) systems

8 to 109

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

The Company estimates the future undiscounted cash flows and Amortizable Intangible Assets

Long-lived assets and intangible assets subject to be derived fromamortization are subject to an asset to assess whether or not a potential impairment existsassessment when certain triggering events or circumstances indicate that thetheir carrying value of a long-lived asset may be impaired. If the carrying value exceeds the Company’s estimate of future undiscounted cash flows of the Company recordsoperations related to the asset, an impairment is recorded for the difference between the carrying amount and the fair value of the asset. There were no material adjustments to the carrying value of long-lived assets and intangible assets subject to amortization during the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008.

2009.

Investment in Joint Ventures
As of August 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company had five50%-owned joint venture interests which were accounted for under the equity method of accounting and presented as part of MRB operations. The Company’s investment in equity method joint venture investments has resulted in cumulative undistributed earnings of $11 million and $12 million as of August 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, that are included as a part of partners’ equity of the joint ventures. See Note 19 - Related Party Transactions for further detail on transactions with joint ventures.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, net

Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price over the estimated fair value of the net tangible and intangible assets of the acquired entities. The Company evaluates goodwill and intangibles with an indefinite life for impairment annually during the second fiscal quarter and upon the occurrence of certain triggering events or substantive changes in circumstances that indicate that the fair value of goodwill or indefinite lived intangible assets may be impaired. Impairment of goodwill is tested at the reporting unit level. A reporting unit is an operating segment level.or one level below an operating segment (referred to as a ‘component’). The Company’sCompany has determined that its reporting segments,units, for which goodwill has been allocated, are equivalent to the Company’s operating segments (MRB, APB and SMB), as all of the components of the respective segmentseach segment have similar economic characteristics.

The goodwill impairment test follows a two step process. In the first step, the fair value of a reporting segmentunit is compared to its carrying value. If the carrying value of a reporting segmentunit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

impairment test is performed for purposes of measuring the impairment. In the second step, the fair value of the reporting segmentunit is allocated to all of the assets and liabilities of the reporting segmentunit to determine an implied goodwill value. This allocation is similar to a purchase price allocation where the Company must assign fair values using market participant assumptions. If the carrying amount of the reporting segment’sunit’s goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of goodwill, an impairment loss will be recognized in an amount equal to that excess. In the event of a divestiture of a business unit within a reporting segment,unit, goodwill of the reporting segmentunit is allocated to that business unit based on the fair value of the unit being divested to the total fair value of the reporting segmentunit and a gain or loss is determined. The remaining goodwill in the reporting segmentunit from which the assets were divested is subsequently re-evaluated for impairment.

The Company estimates the fair value of theits reporting segmentsunits using an income approach based on the present value of expected future cash flows, including terminal value, utilizing a market-based weighted average cost of capital (“WACC”). To estimate the cash flows that extend beyond the final year of the discounted cash flow model, the Company employs a terminal value technique, whereby the Company uses estimated operating cash flows minus capital expenditures and adjusts for changes in working capital requirements in the final year of the model, then discounts it by the WACC to establish the terminal value. The Company includes the present value of the terminal value in the fair value estimate. Given that market prices of the Company’s reporting segments are not readily available, the Company makes various estimates and assumptions in determining the estimated fair values of the reporting segments, which is the price that would be received to sell the reporting segment as a whole in an orderly transaction between market participants.capital. Forecasts of future cash flows are based on management’sthe best estimate of future sales and operating costs, pricing expectations and general market conditions.

In addition, the aggregated estimated fair value of the reporting units are compared to the Company’s market capitalization, including


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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


consideration of a control premium. The Company believes this reconciliation is consistent with a market participant perspective.
The Company tests indefinite-lived intangiblesintangible assets for impairment by either comparing the carrying value of the intangible to the projected discounted cash flows from the intangible or using the relief from royalties method. If the carrying value exceeds the projected discounted cash flows attributed to the indefinite-lived intangible asset, the carrying value is no longer considered recoverable and the Company will record an impairment. The Company did not record any material impairment charges on indefinite-lived intangible assets in any of the periods presented. See Note 98 – Goodwill and Other Intangibles Assets, net for further detail.

Allocation

Acquisitions
On September 1, 2009, the Company adopted the revised accounting standard for business combinations, which requires the Company to recognize the assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree at the acquisition date, measured at their fair values as of Acquisition Purchase Price

that date. The Company allocatesrevised accounting standard has been applied prospectively to all business combinations completed after the date of adoption. Contingent purchase consideration is recorded at fair value at the date of acquisition. Any excess purchase price over the fair value of acquisitionsthe net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. Within one year from the date of acquisition, the Company may update the value allocated to identified tangible and intangiblethe assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their estimated fair valuesand the resulting goodwill balances as a result of information received regarding the valuation of such assets and liabilities that was not available at the datetime of acquisition, with any residual amounts allocated to goodwill.purchase. Measuring assets and liabilities at fair value requires usthe Company to determine the price that would be paid by a third party market participant based on the highest and best use of the assets or interests acquired. In addition, the Company accrues for any contingent purchase price consideration at fair value at the date of the acquisition.

Acquisition costs are expensed as incurred.

Accrued Workers’ Compensation Costs

The Company is self-insured for workers’ compensation claims with exposure limited by various stop-loss insurance policies. The Company estimates the costs of workers’ compensation claims based on the nature of the injury incurred and on guidelines established by the applicable state. A reserve is recorded based upon the amount of unpaid claims as of the balance sheet date. Reserve amounts recorded for individual claims are reviewed periodically as treatment progresses and adjusted to reflect additional information that becomes available. The estimated cost of claims incurred but not reported is included in the reserve. As of August 31, 2010 and 2009, theThe Company accrued $6$10 million and $6 million for the estimated cost of workers’ compensation claims.

claims as of August 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, which are included in other accrued liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Environmental Liabilities

The Company estimates future costs for known environmental remediation requirements and accrues for them on an undiscounted basis when it is probable that the Company has incurred a liability and the related costs can be reasonably estimated but the timing of incurring the estimated costs is unknown. The Company considers various factors when estimating its environmental liabilities. Adjustments to the liabilities are made when additional information becomes available that affects the estimated costs to study or remediate any environmental issues or when

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

expenditures are made for which reserves were established. Legal costs incurred in connection with environmental contingencies are expensed as incurred.

When only a wide range of estimated amounts can be reasonably established and no other amount within the range is a better estimate than another, the low end of the range is recorded in the financial statements. In a number of cases, it is possible that the Company may receive reimbursement through insurance or from other potentially responsible parties for a site. In these situations, recoveries of environmental remediation costs from other parties are recognized when the claim for recovery is actually realized. The amounts recorded for environmental liabilities are reviewed periodically as site assessment and remediation progresses at individual sites and adjusted to reflect additional information that becomes available. Due to evolving remediation technology, changing regulations, possible third party contributions, the inherent shortcomingssubjective nature of the estimation processassumptions used and other factors, amounts accrued could vary significantly from amounts paid.

Fair Value of

Financial Instruments

The Company’s financial instruments include cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, debt and natural gas derivative.derivative contracts. The carrying amounts of the non-derivative financial instruments approximate fair value, including debt as it consists of primarily at variable interest rate notes.rates. The Company uses the market approach to value its financial assets and liabilities, determined using available market information. Fair value disclosures are included in Note 14 – Derivative Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements.

Fair Value Measurements

Fair value is measured using inputs from the three levels of the fair value hierarchy. Classification within the hierarchy is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The three levels are described as follows:

Level 1 – Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets.

markets for identical assets and liabilities.

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


Level 2 – Directly and indirectly observable market data.

Level 3Unobservable inputs with no market data correlation.

Significant unobservable inputs.

When developing the fair value measurements, the Company uses quoted market prices whenever available or seeks to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when quoted market prices are not available. The Company’s natural gas contract for SMB is measured at fair value using a model derived from observable market data. This model considers various inputs including: (a) quoted futures prices for commodities, (b) time value,See Note 12 - Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest and (c) the Company’s credit risk, as well as other relevant economic measures. See Note 14 – Derivative Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements for further detail.

Derivatives
Derivatives

The Company’s accounting policies forCompany records derivative instruments are based on whether the instruments are designated as hedgein other assets or non-hedge instruments. Derivative instruments are recordedother liabilities in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value and changes in the fair value are either recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) in the Consolidated Balance Sheets or net income (loss) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations, as either assetsapplicable, depending on the nature of the underlying exposure, whether the derivative has been designated as a hedge, and if designated as a hedge, the extent to which the hedge is effective. Amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are reclassified to earnings in the period in which earnings are impacted by the hedged items or liabilities unless theyin the period that the hedged transaction is deemed no longer likely to occur. For cash flow hedges, a formal assessment is made, both at the hedge’s inception and on an ongoing basis, to determine whether the derivatives that are designated as hedging instruments have been highly effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of hedged items and qualify for the normal purchases and normal sales exemption. Derivative contracts for commodities used in normal business operations that are settled by physical delivery, among other criteria, are eligible for andwhether those derivatives may be designated as normal purchases and normal sales pursuantexpected to remain highly effective in future periods. To the exemption. Contracts that qualify as normal purchases or normal sales are not marked–to-market.

extent the hedge is determined to be ineffective, the ineffective portion is immediately recognized in earnings. When available, quoted market prices or prices obtained through external sources are used to measure a contract’s fair value. The fair value of these instruments is a function of underlying forward commodity prices, related volatility, counterparty creditworthiness and duration of the contracts.

Cash flows from derivatives are recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in a manner consistent with the underlying transactions. See Note 14 - Derivative Financial Instruments.

Derivative contracts for commodities used in normal business operations that are settled by physical delivery, among other criteria, are eligible for and may be designated as normal purchases and normal sales. Contracts that qualify as normal purchases or normal sales are not marked-to-market. The Company does not use derivative instruments for trading or speculative purposes.
Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions

Assets and liabilities of foreign operations are translated into USU.S. dollars at the period-end exchange rate and revenues and expenses of foreign operations are translated into USU.S. dollars at the average exchange rate for the period. Translation adjustments are not included in determining net income (loss) for the period, but are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive loss,income (loss), a separate component of SSI shareholders’ equity. Foreign currency transaction

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

gains and losses are generated from the effects of exchange rate changes on transactions denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the Company, which is the USU.S. dollar. Gains and losses on foreign currency transactions are generally required to be recognized in the determination of net income (loss) for the period. The Company records these gains and losses in other income (expense).

Net realized and unrealized foreign currency transaction gains were less than $1 millionnot material for each of the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009.

Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest
The Company has issued common stock to the noncontrolling interest holder of one of our subsidiaries that is redeemable both at the option of the holder and $1 millionupon the occurrence of an event that is not solely within the Company’s control. If the interest were to be redeemed, the Company would be required to purchase all of such interest at fair value on the date of redemption. As such, the redeemable noncontrolling interest is measured at fair value at each reporting period. Any adjustments to the carrying amount of the redeemable noncontrolling interest prior to exercise of the redemption option will be recorded to equity. Since redemption of the noncontrolling interest is outside of the Company’s control, these interests are presented on the Consolidated Balance Sheets in the mezzanine section under the caption “Redeemable noncontrolling interests.” See Note 12 – Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest for the year ended August 31, 2008.

further detail.

Common Stock

Each share of Class A and Class B common stock is entitled to one vote. Additionally, each share of Class B common stock may be converted to one share of Class A common stock. As such, the Company reserves one share of Class A common stock for each share of Class B common stock outstanding.

There are currently no meaningful distinctions between the rights of holders of Class A shares and Class B shares.

Shareholder Rights Plan

Under its shareholder rights plan, the Company issued a dividend distribution of one preferred share purchase right (a “Right”) for each share of Class A common stock or Class B common stock held by shareholders of record as of the close of business on April 4, 2006. The Rights generally become exercisable if a person or group has acquired 15% or more of the Company’s outstanding

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SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


common stock or announces a tender offer or exchange offer which, if consummated, would result in ownership by a person or group of 15% or more of the Company’s outstanding common stock (“Acquiring Person”). The Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Voting Trust and its trustees, in their capacity as trustees, are not deemed to beneficially own any common stock by virtue of being bound by the Voting Trust Agreement governing the trust. Each Right entitles shareholders to buy one one-thousandth of a share of Series A Participating Preferred Stock (“Series A Shares”) of the Company at an exercise price of $110,$110, subject to adjustments. Holders of Rights (other than an Acquiring Person) are entitled to receive upon exercise Series A Shares, or in lieu thereof, Class A common stock of the Company having a value of twice the Right’s then-current exercise price. The Series A Shares are not redeemable by the Company and have voting privileges and certain dividend and liquidation preferences. The Rights will expire on March 21, 2016, unless such date is extended or the Rights are redeemed or exchanged on an earlier date.

Share Repurchases

The Company accounts for the repurchase of stock at par value. All shares repurchased are deemed retired. Upon retirement of the shares, the Company records the difference between the weighted average cost of such shares and the par value of the stock as an adjustment to additional paid-in-capital, with the excess to retained earnings when additional paid-in-capital is not sufficient.

Revenue Recognition

The Company recognizes revenue when it has a contract or purchase order from a customer with a fixed price, the title and risk of loss transfer to the buyer and collectibility is reasonably assured. Title for both metal and finished steel products transfers based on contract terms. A significant portion of the Company’s ferrous export sales of recycled metal are made with letters of credit, reducing credit risk. However, domestic recycled ferrous metal sales, nonferrous sales and sales of finished steel are generally made on open account. Nonferrous export sales typically require a deposit prior to shipment. All sales made on open account are evaluated for collectibility prior to revenue recognition. Additionally, the Company recognizes revenues on partially loaded shipments when detailed documents support revenue recognition based on transfer of title and risk of loss. For APB, retail revenues are recognized when customers pay for parts and wholesale product revenues are recognized when customer weight certificates are received following shipments. Historically, there have been very few sales returns and adjustments that impact the ultimate collection of revenues; therefore, no material provisions have been made when the sale is recognized. The Company presents taxes assessed by governmental authorities collected from customers on a net basis. Therefore, the taxes are excluded from revenue and are shown as a liability on the consolidated balance sheetConsolidated Balance Sheets until remitted.

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Freight Costs

The Company classifies shipping and handling costs billed to customers as revenue and the related costs incurred as a component of cost of goods sold.

Share-Based Compensation

The Company recognizes share-based compensation cost relating to share-based payment transactions over the vesting period, with the cost measured based on the estimated fair value of the equity instruments issued. See Note 16 – Share-Based Compensation for further detail.

Income Taxes

Income taxes are accounted for using the asset and liability method. This requires the recognition of taxes currently payable or refundable and the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the future tax consequences of events that are recognized in one reporting period on the consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements but in a different reporting period on the tax returns. Tax credits are recognized as a reduction of income tax expense in the year the credit arises. Valuation allowances are recorded to reduce deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will not be realized. Tax benefits arising from uncertain tax positions are recognized when it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination by the relevant tax authorities. The amount recognized in the financial statements is the largest amount of tax benefit that is greater than 50 percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement with a taxing authority that has full knowledge of all relevant information. We recognize interest and penalties, if any, related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense. See Note 17 – Income Taxes for further detail.

Net Income (Loss) per Share

Basic net income (loss) per share attributable to SSI is based oncomputed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of outstanding common shares during the periods presented including vested deferred stock units (“DSUs”) and restricted stock units (“RSUs”). Diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to SSI is based oncomputed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding, assuming dilution. Potentially dilutive common shares include the assumed exercise of stock options and assumed vesting of performance shares, DSU and RSU awards using the treasury stock method.

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SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


Certain of the Company’s stock options, RSUs and performance share awards were excluded from the calculation of diluted net income (loss) per share because they were antidilutive, buthowever these options and awards could be dilutive in the future. See Note 18 – Net Income (Loss) Per Share for further detail.

Effective September 1, 2009, the Company adopted the accounting standard for noncontrolling interests in consolidated financial statements. Certain provisions of this accounting standard are required to be adopted retrospectively for all periods presented and include a requirement that the carrying value of noncontrolling interests (previously referred to as minority interests) be removed from the mezzanine section of the balance sheet and reclassified as equity. Further, as a result of adopting this accounting standard, net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests is now deducted from the income (loss) from continuing operations to arrive at the net income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to SSI for purposes of calculating net income (loss) per share.

See Note 18 – Net Income (Loss) Per Share for further detail.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of the Company’s consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the USU.S. of America (“USU.S. GAAP”) requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements and reported amounts of revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Examples include valuation of assets received in acquisitions; revenue recognition; the allowance for doubtful accounts; estimates of contingencies, including environmental liabilities; intangible asset valuation; inventory valuation; redeemable non-controlling interest valuation; pension plan assumptions; and the assessment of the valuation of deferred income taxes and income tax contingencies. Actual results may differ from estimated amounts.

Concentration of Credit Risk

Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to significant concentration of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. The majority of cash and cash equivalents are maintained with two major financial institutions (Bank of America and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.). Balances in these institutions exceeded the FDIC insuranceFederal Deposit Insurance Corporation insured amount of $250,000$250,000 as of August 31, 2010.2011. Concentration of credit risk with respect to accounts receivable is limited because a large number of geographically diverse customers make up the Company’s customer base. The Company controls credit risk through credit approvals, credit limits, letters of credit and monitoring procedures.

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

In addition, the The Company is exposed to a residual credit risk with respect to open letters of credit as most shipments to foreign customers are supported by lettersvirtue of the possibility of the failure of a bank providing a letter of credit. The Company had $85$176 million and $99$85 million of open letters of credit, as of August 31, 20102011 and 2009,2010, respectively.

Reclassifications

Certain prior year amounts in the statement of cash flows have been reclassified within cash flows from operating activities to conform to the current year presentation. These changes had no impact on previously reported operating income, net income (loss) or net cash provided by operating activities.

Note 3 – Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Recently Adopted Accounting Standards

In September 2006,December 2010, an accounting standard update was issued regarding the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued guidanceinterpretation of the disclosure of supplementary pro forma information for business combinations. The standard clarifies that defines fair value, establishesan entity is required to disclose pro forma revenue and earnings as though the business combination(s) that occurred during the current year had occurred as of the beginning of the comparable prior annual reporting period only. In addition, this standard expands the supplemental pro forma disclosures to include a framework for measuring fair value,description of the nature and expands fair value measurement disclosure. This guidance, as it relatesamount of material, nonrecurring pro forma adjustments directly attributable to non-financial assets and liabilities that are recognized or disclosed at fair valuethe business combination included in the financial statements on a non-recurring basis, wasreported pro forma revenue and earnings. This standard will be effective for the Company for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2010. Assets acquired through business combinations completed during the year ended August 31, 2010 were valued in accordance2012. The Company currently complies with this guidance. Non-recurring, non-financial asset fair value measurements also include those used in the Company’s test of recoverability of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets, in which the Company determines whether fair values of its applicable reporting segments exceed their carrying values.

In December 2007, the FASB issued amended guidance regarding business combinations, establishing principles and requirements for how an acquirer recognizes and measures identifiable assets acquired, liabilities assumed, any resulting goodwill and any noncontrolling interest in an acquiree in its financial statements, as well as requiring that all transaction costs be expensed as incurred. This guidance also provides forthese disclosures to enable users of the financial statements to evaluate the nature and financial effects of a business combination. This amended guidance became effective for the Company beginning September 1, 2009 and has been applied prospectively to all business combinations completed in fiscal 2010. Transaction costs of $1 million related to acquisitions that had not been completed at the time of adoption were expensed and all subsequent transaction costs have been expensed as incurred.

In December 2007, the FASB issued new guidance regarding the accounting and reporting for noncontrolling interests in subsidiaries. This guidance clarifies that noncontrolling interests in subsidiaries should be accounted for as a component of equity separate from the parent’s equity. Additionally, the guidance requires that income from noncontrolling interests be presented below net income to derive a net income figure attributable to the parent entity. This guidance became effective for the Company beginning September 1, 2009 and the applicable classification and presentation provisions were applied retrospectively.

In December 2008, the FASB issued guidance relating to an employer’s disclosures about the plan assets of a defined benefit pension or post retirement plan. The guidance requires additional disclosure regarding investment policies and strategies, fair value of each major asset category based on risks of the assets, inputs and valuation techniques used to estimate fair value, fair value measurement hierarchy for each asset category and significant concentrations of risk information. This guidance was effective for the Company for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2010 and the disclosures have been incorporated accordingly. See Note 15 – Employee Benefits.

In June 2009, the FASB established the FASB Accounting Standards Codification (the “Codification”) as the single source of authoritative US GAAP for all non-governmental entities. The Codification changes the referencing and organization of accounting guidance and became effective for us beginning September 1, 2009. There were no changes to US GAAP as a result of the issuance of the FASB Codification.

In January 2010, an accounting standards update was issued by the FASB to improve disclosure requirements related to fair value measurement. This update requires additional disclosures relating to significant transfers in and out of Levels 1 and 2 fair value measurements, along with the reason for the transfer and separate presentation of purchases, sales, issuances and settlements in the reconciliation of Level 3 fair value measurements. The update was effective for

56  /  Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

the Company in the third quarter of the fiscal year ended August 31, 2010, except for disclosures relating to Level 3 activity, which will be effective for the fiscal year ending August 31, 2012 and will be applied prospectively and thus this standard will not have any impact on previously issued financial information. See Note 14 – Derivative Financial Instrumentsstatements.

In May 2011, an accounting standard update was issued to clarify existing fair value measurement guidance and Fair Value Measurements.

In February 2010,expand the FASB issued amended guidance on subsequent events. Under this amended guidance, SEC filersdisclosure requirements for fair value measurements estimated using unobservable inputs (Level 3 inputs). New disclosures are no longer required to disclosereport quantitative information about the date through which subsequent events have been evaluatedunobservable inputs used in originally issuedthe measurement of Level 3 valuations and revised financial statements. This guidance was effective immediatelyto include the valuation process used to determine the fair value of the item and the Company adopted these new requirements in the second quarter of fiscal 2010. In preparing the accompanying audited financial statements the Company has reviewed events that occurred after August 31, 2010, the balance sheet date, noting no material subsequent events.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

In June 2009, the FASB issued a new accounting standard that revised the guidance for the consolidation of variable interest entities (“VIE”). This new guidance requires a qualitative approach to identifying a controlling financial interest in a VIE and requires an ongoing assessment of whether an entity is a VIE and whether an interest in a VIE makes the holder the primary beneficiarysensitivity of the VIE. This guidance is effective for the Company beginning September 1, 2010 and it is expected that the adoption will not have an impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position or results of operations.

In July 2010, the FASB issued an accounting standards updatemeasurement to require further disaggregated disclosures that improve financial statement users’ understanding of (1) the nature of an entity’s credit risk associated with its financing receivables and (2) the entity’s assessment of that risk in estimating its allowance for credit losses as well as changes in the allowance and the reasons for those changes.unobservable inputs. This updatestandard will be effective for the Company in the second quarter of fiscal 2011, except for the disclosures relating to activity that occurred during a reporting period which is effective for the Company in the third quarter of fiscal year 2012. The standard is unlikely to impact the fair value measurement of any of the Company’s existing assets, liabilities, or equity valuations, but additional disclosures will be required for the Company’s redeemable noncontrolling interest, which is measured using Level 3 inputs.

In June 2011, an accounting standard update was issued regarding the presentation of other comprehensive income in the financial statements. The standard eliminates the option of presenting other comprehensive income as part of the statement of changes in stockholders’ equity and instead requires the entity to present other comprehensive income as either a single statement of comprehensive income combined with net income or as two separate but continuous statements. This amendment will be effective for the Company for fiscal year 2013 and interim periods therein. The Company currently reports other comprehensive income in the summary of changes in equity and comprehensive income and will be required to update the presentation of comprehensive income to be in compliance with the new standard.
In September 2011, an accounting standard update was issued that simplifies how an entity tests goodwill for impairment by allowing an entity to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the two-step quantitative goodwill impairment test. If an entity believes, as a result of its qualitative assessment, that it is more-likely-than-not that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, the quantitative impairment test is required. Otherwise, no further testing is required. The revised standard includes examples of types of factors to consider in conducting the qualitative assessment. These include macro-economic conditions, such as a deterioration in the entity’s operating environment, entity-specific events, such as

51 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


declining financial performance, and other events, such as an expectation that a reporting unit will be sold. The revised standard is effective for annual and interim goodwill impairment tests performed for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2011. SinceEarly adoption is permitted. The Company is likely to early adopt this standard for the goodwill impairment test to be performed in fiscal 2012. Upon adoption, this standard will impact how the Company assesses goodwill for impairment but will not change the measurement or recognition of a potential goodwill impairment charge.
In September 2011, an accounting standard update addresses onlywas issued that requires additional disclosures related to credit qualityabout an employer’s participation in multiemployer pension plans. The revised disclosures provide additional information about the plans in which an employer participates, the level of financing receivablesits participation, the financial health of significant plans, and the allowancenature of the employer’s commitments to the plans, including when the collective-bargaining agreements that require contributions to the significant plans are set to expire and whether those agreements require minimum contributions to be made to the plans. The revised disclosures also require additional information about significant plans from sources available outside of the basic financial statements, including the funded status of such plans. The revised standard does not change the existing recognition, measurement, and disclosure provisions for credit losses, it is not expected thatwithdrawal liabilities. The revised standard will be effective for the adoptionCompany for fiscal year 2012. The Company currently complies with the disclosure requirements of this update will have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

revised standard.

Note 4 – Inventories, net

Inventories consisted of the following as of August 31 (in thousands):

   2010  2009 

Processed and unprocessed scrap metal

  $189,618   $77,607  

Semi-finished goods (billets)

   5,593    9,600  

Finished goods

   43,352    66,936  

Supplies

   30,639    31,581  

Inventory reserve

   (1,099  (1,269
         

Inventories, net

  $268,103   $184,455  
         

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  57


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 2011 2010
Processed and unprocessed scrap metal$241,093
 $189,618
Semi-finished goods (billets)9,237
 5,593
Finished goods54,395
 43,352
Supplies30,395
 29,540
Inventories, net$335,120
 $268,103

Note 5 – Property, Plant and Equipment, net

Property, plant and equipment, net consisted of the following as of August 31 (in thousands):

   2010  2009 

Machinery and equipment

  $533,373   $507,651  

Land and improvements

   190,673    183,979  

Buildings and leasehold improvements

   62,663    64,656  

Office equipment

   32,380    31,850  

ERP systems

   13,773    13,761  

Construction in progress

   39,039    11,100  
         
   871,901    812,997  

Less: accumulated depreciation

   (411,091  (365,769
         

Property, plant and equipment, net

  $460,810   $447,228  
         

 2011 2010
Machinery and equipment$640,573
 $533,373
Land and improvements216,230
 190,673
Buildings and leasehold improvements85,131
 62,663
Office equipment40,580
 32,380
ERP systems14,087
 13,773
Construction in progress29,988
 39,039
Property, plant and equipment, gross1,026,589
 871,901
Less: accumulated depreciation(471,305) (411,091)
Property, plant and equipment, net$555,284
 $460,810

Depreciation expense for property, plant and equipment, which includes amortization of assets under capital leases, was $57$68 million $56, $57 million and $48$56 million for the years ended August 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

Note 6 – Investment in and Advances to Joint Ventures

As of August 31, 2010, the Company had five joint venture interests which were accounted for under the equity method of accounting and presented as part of the MRB operations.

The following tables present summarized unaudited financial information for the Company’s joint ventures in which the Company was a partner (in thousands):

       

August 31,

 
       

2010

   2009 

Current assets

    $27,569    $20,685  

Non-current assets

     14,971     17,299  
            

Total assets

    $42,540    $37,984  
            

Current liabilities

    $10,727    $9,273  

Non-current liabilities

     1,610     1,908  

Partners’ equity

     30,203     26,803  
            

Total liabilities and partners’ equity

    $42,540    $37,984  
            
   Year Ended August 31, 
   2010   2009   2008 

Revenues

  $63,610    $53,907    $105,952  

Operating income

  $5,765    $2,266    $24,707  

Net income

  $6,259    $2,532    $25,113  

The Company’s investment in equity method joint venture investments has resulted in cumulative undistributed earnings of $12 million and $9 million as of August 31,2011, 2010 and 2009 respectively, that are included as a part of partners’ equity of the joint ventures.

, respectively.

Note 76 – Business Combinations

On September 1, 2009,

During fiscal 2011, the Company adoptedmade the revised accounting standard for business combinations issued by the FASB in December 2007. This standard requires the Company to recognize the assets acquired, the liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interest in the acquiree at the acquisition date, measured at their fair values as of that date and requires acquisition costs to be expensed as incurred.

58  /  Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010following acquisitions:


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

During the year ended August 31, 2010, the Company spent $41 million to acquire six self-service used auto parts stores and a metals recycler. These acquisitions were as follows:

In October 2009, the Company acquired four self-service used auto parts stores located near MRB’s export facility in Portland, Oregon. This acquisition represented the Company’s first used auto parts operations in the Pacific Northwest.

In JanuarySeptember 2010, the Company acquired two self-service used auto parts stores, which increased to foursubstantially all of the numberassets of used auto parts stores that the Company operates in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.

In April 2010, the Company acquiredSOS Metals Island Recycling, LLC, a metals recycler in MontanaMaui, Hawaii, to provide an additional source of scrap metal for the MRB Hawaii facility.

In November 2010, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets utilized by Specialized Parts Planet, Inc. at its Stockton, California used auto parts facility, which expanded APB’s presence in the Western U.S.
In December 2010, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of Waco U-Pull It, Inc., a used auto parts store in Waco, Texas, which expanded APB’s presence in the Southwestern U.S.
In December 2010, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of Macon Iron & Paper Stock Co., a metals recycler with two yards in Macon, Georgia, which expanded MRB’s presence in the Southeastern U.S.

52 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


In December 2010, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of Steel Pacific Recycling Inc., a metals recycler with six yards on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada, that previously supplied ferrous scrap to MRB’s Tacoma, Washington export facility.

For each This acquisition marked MRB’s initial expansion into Canada.

In January 2011, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of State Line Scrap Co., Inc., a metals recycler with one yard in Attleboro, Massachusetts, which expanded MRB’s presence in the Northeastern U.S.
In January 2011, the Company acquired substantially all of the mobile car crushing assets of Northwest Recycling, Inc., based in Portland, Oregon, which provides scrap metal for MRB’s Portland, Oregon facility.
In February 2011, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of Ferrill’s Auto Parts, Inc., a used auto parts business with three stores in Seattle, Washington, which expanded APB’s presence in the Northwestern U.S.
In March 2011, the Company acquired substantially all of the metals recycling business assets of Amix Salvage & Sales Ltd., which operated four metals recycling yards in British Columbia, Canada and two metals recycling yards in Alberta, Canada that previously supplied ferrous scrap to MRB’s Tacoma, Washington facility. This acquisition expanded MRB’s presence in Western Canada. As part of the consideration paid, the Company issued the seller common shares equal to 20% of the issued and outstanding capital stock of the Company’s acquisition subsidiary.
In April 2011, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of American Metal Group, Inc. and certain of its affiliates, a metals recycler with yards in San Jose and Santa Clara, California that previously supplied ferrous scrap to MRB’s Oakland, California facility. This acquisition expanded MRB’s presence in the Western U.S.
The total purchase price of $314 million, comprising $293 million in cash and $21 million in non-cash consideration ($19 million in shares of a subsidiary and $2 million in contingent consideration) for the acquisitions in fiscal 2011, was allocated to tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their respective estimated fair values on the date of acquisition. The excess of the aggregate purchase pricesprice over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired of $27$246 million for the year ended August 31, 2011 was recorded as goodwill, of which$232 million is expected to be deductible for tax purposes.

The acquisitions completed in fiscal 2010 were not material, individually or in the aggregate, to the Company’s financial position or results of operations. Pro forma operating results for the fiscal 2010 acquisitions are not presented, since the aggregate results would not be significantly different than reported results.

During the year ended August 31, 2009, the Company acquired the following:

In December 2008, the Company acquired a metals recycler in Washington to provide an additional source of scrap metal for MRB’s Tacoma, Washington export facility.

In February 2009, the Company acquired a metals recycler in Puerto Rico. This acquisition expanded the Company’s presence into a new region, increased the Company’s processing capability and provided new sources of scrap metal and access to international export facilities.

In February 2009, the Company acquired an additional 16.66% equity interest in an auto parts business located in California, and in April 2009 acquired the remaining 8.34% minority equity interest in this business, thus increasing the Company’s equity ownership in this business to 100%. The acquired equity was previously consolidated into the Company’s financial statements because the Company maintained operating control over the entity.

In February 2009, the Company acquired a self-service used auto parts business with two locations in California. This acquisition strengthened the Company’s presence in Northern California.

In March 2009, the Company acquired a metals recycler in Nevada to provide an additional source of scrap metal for MRB’s Oakland, California export facility.

For each acquisition the purchase price was allocated to tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their respective estimated fair values on the date of acquisition. The excess of the aggregate purchase prices over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired of $61 million was recorded as goodwill, of which $14 million is expected to be deductible for tax purposes.

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  59


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The following is a summary of the aggregate fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed for acquisitions completed during the year ended August 31, 2009 (in thousands):

Assets:

  

Cash and cash equivalents

  $336  

Accounts receivable

   935  

Inventories, net

   5,185  

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

   934  

Deferred income taxes

   456  

Property, plant and equipment, net

   23,466  

Intangibles, net

   8,974  

Other assets

   2,065  

Goodwill

   60,853  

Liabilities:

  

Other accrued liabilities

   (1,097

Environmental liabilities

   (2,290

Other long-term liabilities

   (1,837

Deferred income taxes

   (1,487
     

Aggregate purchase price

   96,493  

Less: Amounts to be paid

   (3,104

Less: Cash received

   (336
     

Net cash paid

  $93,053  
     

The following table presents the intangible assets associated with the acquisitions completed during the year ended August 31, 2009 (dollars in thousands):

   Life
In Years
  Gross
Carrying
Amount
 

Tradename

  1  $76  

Employment agreements

  2   1,117  

Covenants not to compete

  5 – 20   5,646  

Permit and licenses

  3   80  

Supply contracts

  6   2,055  
       
    $8,974  
       

The following unaudited pro forma summary presents the effect on the consolidated financial results of the Company of the businesses acquired during the year ended August 31, 20092011 as though the businesses had been acquired as of the beginning of the years ended August 31fiscal 2010 (in thousands):

   2009  2008 

Revenues

  $1,794,139   $3,597,062  

Operating income (loss)

  $(54,276 $429,792  

Net income (loss)

  $(35,091 $271,684  

Net income (loss) per share – basic

  $(1.24 $9.60  

Net income (loss) per share – diluted

  $(1.24 $9.41  

60  /  Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 2011 2010
Revenues$3,539,677
 $2,466,547
Operating income(1)
$204,613
 $149,328
Net income(1)
$134,921
 $82,481
Net income attributable to SSI(1)
$127,954
 $78,106
_____________________________ 
(1)Excludes nonrecurring executive compensation paid to the management of acquired companies that will not be incurred in the future.

These pro forma results are not necessarily indicative of what actual results would have been had these acquisitions occurred for the periods presented. In addition, the pro forma results are not intended to be a projection of future results and do not reflect any synergies that may be achieved from combining operations.

During

Since the year ended dates of the acquisitions, the acquired operations generated aggregate revenues from sales to third parties of $93 million and operating income of $10 million through August 31, 2008,2011 excluding the benefits realized by our geographically proximate export facilities from integrating the acquired businesses with our existing operations.
During fiscal 2010, the Company made the following acquisitions:
In October 2009, the Company acquired substantially all of the following:

In September 2007, the Company acquired a mobile metals recycling business that provides additional sourcesassets of scrap metal to MRB’s Everett, Massachusetts facility.

In November 2007, the Company acquired two metals recycling businesses and in February 2008 the Company acquired one metals recycling business that expanded the Company’s presence in the Southeastern US.

In February 2008, the Company acquired the remaining 50% equity interest in an auto parts business located in Nevada in exchange for its 50% interest in the land and buildings, owned by the entity. The acquired business was previously consolidated into the Company’s financial statements because the Company maintained operating control over the entity.

In August 2008, the Company acquired afour of LKQ Corporations self-service used auto parts business with three locationsstores located near MRB’s export facility in Portland, Oregon. This acquisition represented the Company’s first used auto parts operations in the Southeastern US.

Pacific Northwest.

In January 2010, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of two of LKQ Corporations self-service used auto parts stores, which increased to four the number of used auto parts stores that the Company operates in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.
In April 2010, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of Golden Recycling and Salvage, Inc., a

53 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


metals recycler in Montana, to provide an additional source of scrap metal for MRB’s Tacoma, Washington export facility.
The total purchase price of $41 million in cash for the acquisitions in fiscal 2010 was allocated to tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their respective estimated fair values on the date of acquisition. The excess of the aggregate purchase price over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired of $27 million was recorded as goodwill, which is expected to be deductible for tax purposes.
The acquisitions completed in fiscal 20082010 were not material, individually or in the aggregate, to the Company’s financial position or results of operations. Pro forma operating results for the fiscal 20082010 acquisitions are not presented, since the aggregate results would not be significantly different than reported results.

During fiscal 2009, the Company made the following acquisitions:
In December 2008, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of Arrow Metals Corporation, a metals recycler in Washington, to provide an additional source of scrap metal for MRB’s Tacoma, Washington export facility.
In February 2009, the Company acquired Ponce Resources, Inc., the leading metals recycler in Puerto Rico. This acquisition expanded the Company’s presence into a new region, increased the Company’s processing capability and provided new sources of scrap metal and access to international export facilities.
In February 2009, the Company acquired an additional 16.66% equity interest in an auto parts business located in California, and in April 2009 acquired the remaining 8.34% minority equity interest in this business, thus increasing the Company’s equity ownership in this business to 100%. The acquired equity was previously consolidated into the Company’s financial statements because the Company maintained operating control over the entity.
In February 2009, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of two self-service used auto parts businesses in California operated by Specialized Parts Planet, Inc., thereby strengthening the Company’s presence in Northern California.
In March 2009, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets of Solid Waste Reduction Services, Inc., a metals recycler in Nevada, to provide an additional source of scrap metal for MRB’s Oakland, California export facility.
The total purchase price of $96 million (comprising $93 million in cash and $3 million in notes payable) for the acquisitions in fiscal 2009 was allocated to tangible and identifiable intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on their respective estimated fair values on the date of acquisition. The excess of the aggregate purchase prices over the fair value of the identifiable net assets acquired of $61 million was recorded as goodwill, of which $14 million is expected to be deductible for tax purposes.
The following unaudited pro forma summary presents the effect on the consolidated financial results of the Company of the businesses acquired during the year ended August 31, 2009 as though the businesses had been acquired as of the beginning of fiscal 2008 (in thousands):
 2009 2008
Revenues$1,794,139
 $3,597,062
Operating income (loss)$(54,276) $429,792
Net income (loss)$(34,225) $277,041
Net income (loss) attributable to SSI$(35,091) $271,684

These pro forma results are not necessarily indicative of what actual results would have been had these acquisitions occurred for the periods presented. In addition, the pro forma results are not intended to be a projection of future results and do not reflect any synergies that may be achieved from combining operations.

54 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


The following is a summary of the aggregate fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed for acquisitions completed during the years ended August 31 (in thousands):
Assets:2011 2009
Cash and cash equivalents$285
 $336
Accounts receivable5,490
 935
Inventories21,988
 5,185
Prepaid expenses and other current assets777
 934
Deferred tax assets830
 456
Property, plant and equipment59,065
 23,466
Intangible assets7,182
 8,974
Other assets16
 2,065
Goodwill245,894
 60,853
Liabilities:   
Short-term liabilities(22,291) (1,097)
Environmental liabilities(1,069) (2,290)
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations(1,224) (1,837)
       Deferred tax liability - long-term(2,467) (1,487)
Net assets acquired(1)
$314,476
 $96,493
_____________________________ 
(1)
The acquisitions completed in fiscal 2010 were not material, individually or in the aggregate, to the Company’s financial position or results of operations.
The following table presents the fair value of intangible assets acquired with the acquisitions completed during the year ended August 31, 2011 (dollars in thousands):
 
Weighted
Average Life
In Years
 
Gross
Carrying
Amount
Covenants not to compete4.8 $6,062
Other intangible assets subject to amortization(1)
1.5 863
Indefinite-lived intangible assets(2)
Indefinite 257
Total4.4 $7,182
_____________________________ 
(1)
Other intangible assets subject to amortization include supply contracts, permits and licenses and leasehold interests.
(2)Indefinite-lived intangible assets include tradenames and real property options.
The following table presents the intangible assets associated with the acquisitions completed during the year ended August 31, 2009 (dollars in thousands):
 
Weighted
Average Life
In Years
 
Gross
Carrying
Amount
Covenants not to compete18.0 $5,646
Other intangible assets subject to amortization(1)
4.5 3,328
Total13.0 $8,974
_____________________________ 
(1)Other intangible assets subject to amortization include tradenames, employment agreements, permits and licenses and supply contracts.
The Company paid a premium (i.e., goodwill) over the fair value of the net tangible and identified intangible assets acquired in the transactions described above for a number of reasons, including but not limited to the following:

The Company will benefit from the assets and capabilities of these acquisitions, including additional resources, skills and industry expertise;

The acquired businesses enhanceincrease the Company’s regional market position;presence in new and

existing regions; and

The Company anticipates cost savings, efficiencies and synergies.


55 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


Note 87 – Discontinued Operations

In October 2009, the Company sold its full-service used auto parts operation, which had been operated as part of the APB reporting segment.segment, for proceeds of $41 million. The Company concluded that the divestiture met the definition of a discontinued operation. Accordingly, the results of this discontinued operation have been reclassified for all periods presented. The sale resulted in a loss of $15$15 million, net of tax, and included the write-off of $12$12 million of goodwill that was allocated to the full-service operation from the APB reporting segment. Operating results of the discontinued operations are summarized below. Operating results in fiscal 2011 were not material. The amounts exclude general corporate overhead previously allocated to the full-service used auto parts operation.

   Year Ended August 31, 
(In thousands)  2010  2009  2008 

Revenues

  $9,991   $112,996   $124,600  
             

Gain (loss) from discontinued operations before income taxes

  $761   $(6,484 $(943

Loss on sale of full-service operation, including adjustments

   (16,468  0    0  

Income tax benefit

   1,875    2,270    330  
             

Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax

  $(13,832 $(4,214 $(613
             

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  61


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Assets and liabilities of discontinued operations consisted of the following as of August 31, 2009 (in thousands):

Current assets

  $ 41,670  

Noncurrent assets

  $8,538  

Current liabilities

  $8,740  

Noncurrent liabilities

  $5,167  
 Year Ended August 31,
(In thousands)2010 2009
Revenues$9,991
 $112,996
Income (loss) from discontinued operations before income taxes$761
 $(6,484)
Loss on sale of full-service operation, including adjustments(16,468) 
Income tax benefit1,875
 2,270
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax$(13,832) $(4,214)

Note 98 – Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, net

In the second quarter of fiscal 2011, the Company performed its annual goodwill impairment testing by comparing the fair value of each reporting unit with its carrying value, including goodwill. As a result of this testing, the Company determined that the fair value of each reporting unit was substantially in excess of its respective carrying value and each reporting unit’s goodwill balance and indefinite-lived intangible assets were not impaired as of February 28, 2011. There were no triggering events during the remainder of fiscal 2011 that required a goodwill impairment test. There are no accumulated goodwill impairment charges as of August 31, 2011.
The gross changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by reporting segment for the years ended August 31, 20102011 and 20092010 were as follows (in thousands):

   MRB  APB  Total 

Balance as of August 31, 2008

  $170,202   $135,984   $306,186  

Acquisitions

   58,775    2,078    60,853  

Foreign currency translation adjustment

   0    (480  (480
             

Balance as of August 31, 2009

   228,977    137,582    366,559  

Acquisitions

   3,091    23,927    27,018  

Divestitures

   0    (12,030  (12,030

Purchase accounting adjustments

   (1,870  204    (1,666

Foreign currency translation adjustment

   0    451    451  
             

Balance as of August 31, 2010

  $230,198   $150,134   $380,332  
             

 MRB APB Total
Balance as of August 31, 2009$228,977
 $137,582
 $366,559
Acquisitions3,091
 23,927
 27,018
Divestitures
 (12,030) (12,030)
Purchase accounting adjustments(1,870) 204
 (1,666)
Foreign currency translation adjustment
 451
 451
Balance as of August 31, 2010230,198
 150,134
 380,332
Acquisitions232,341
 11,583
 243,924
Purchase accounting adjustments1,086
 (51) 1,035
Foreign currency translation adjustment1,021
 1,493
 2,514
Balance as of August 31, 2011$464,646
 $163,159
 $627,805

56 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


The following table presents the Company’s intangible assets and their related lives as of August 31 (dollars in(in thousands):

   

Life In
Years

   2010  2009 
    Gross
Carrying
Amount
   Accumulated
Amortization
  Gross
Carrying
Amount
   Accumulated
Amortization
 

Identifiable intangibles:

         

Tradename

   Indefinite    $750    $0   $750    $0  

Tradename

   20     0     0    972     (227

Tradename

   1 – 6     583     (423  583     (275

Marketing agreement

   5     563     (159  0     0  

Employment agreements

   2     1,117     (884  1,117     (326

Covenants not to compete

   3 – 20     27,797     (13,329  22,782     (9,949

Leasehold interests

   4 – 25     862     (266  1,550     (540

Lease termination fee

   15     200     (200  200     (191

Permits and licenses

   3 – 9     780     (54  80     (13

Supply contracts

   Indefinite     361     0    361     0  

Supply contracts

   5 – 6     4,571     (2,035  5,269     (1,931

Real property options

   Indefinite     210     0    210     0  
                     

Total

    $37,794    $(17,350 $33,874    $(13,452
                     

 2011 2010
Gross
Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Gross
Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
Covenants not to compete$30,831
 $(15,254) $27,797
 $(13,329)
Supply contracts5,274
 (3,376) 4,571
 (2,035)
Other intangible assets subject to amortization(1)
4,392
 (2,216) 3,905
 (1,786)
Indefinite-lived intangibles(2)
1,255
 
 1,321
 
Total$41,752
 $(20,846) $37,594
 $(17,150)
_____________________________
(1)Other intangibles assets subject to amortization include tradenames, marketing agreements, employment agreements, leasehold interests, permits and licenses and real property options.
(2)Indefinite-lived intangibles include tradenames, permits and licenses and real property options.

The total intangible asset amortization expense for the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 2009 and 20082009 was $6$7 million $5, $6 million and $4$5 million, respectively.

62  /  Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The estimated amortization expense, based on current intangible asset balances, during the next five fiscal years and thereafter is as follows (in thousands):

Years ending August 31,  Estimated
Amortization
Expense
 

2011

  $4,603  

2012

   3,590  

2013

   2,752  

2014

   2,258  

2015

   767  

Thereafter

   5,153  
     
  $19,123  
     
Years ending August 31,
Estimated
Amortization
Expense
2012$5,430
20134,277
20143,370
20151,880
2016865
Thereafter3,829
     Total$19,651

Note 109 – Short-Term Borrowings

The Company’s short-term borrowings consist primarily of a one year,Company has an unsecured, uncommitted $25$25 million credit line with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. that expires on March 1, 2011.2012. Interest rates on outstanding indebtedness under the unsecured line of credit are set by the bank at the time of borrowing. The Company had no borrowings outstanding under this facility as of August 31, 2011 and 2010 or 2009.. The credit agreement contains various representations and warranties, events of default and financial and other covenants, including covenants regarding maintenance of a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio and a maximum leverage ratio. As of August 31, 2010 and 2009, the Company was in compliance with all such covenants.

Note 1110 – Long-Term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations

Long-term debt and capital lease obligations consisted of the following as of August 31 (in thousands):

   2010  2009 

Bank unsecured revolving credit facility, interest at LIBOR plus a spread (0.79% as of

August 31, 2010)

  $90,000   $100,000  

Tax-exempt economic development revenue bonds due January 2021, interest payable monthly at a variable rate (0.40% as of August 31, 2010), secured by a letter of credit

   7,700    7,700  

Capital lease obligations due through September 2015, interest at rates ranging from 3.40% to 6.37% as of August 31, 2010

   2,084    2,674  

Other

   645    1,357  
         

Total long-term debt

   100,429    111,731  

Less: current maturities

   (1,189  (1,317
         

Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of current maturities

  $99,240   $110,414  
         

The

 2011 2010
Bank unsecured revolving credit facility, interest at LIBOR plus a spread$393,428
 $90,000
Tax-exempt economic development revenue bonds due January 2021, interest payable monthly at a variable rate (0.13% as of August 31, 2011), secured by a letter of credit7,700
 7,700
Capital lease obligations due through February 2021, interest at rates ranging from 0.99% to 9.39% as of August 31, 20112,802
 2,084
Other
 645
Total long-term debt and capital lease obligations403,930
 100,429
Less current maturities(643) (1,189)
Long-term debt and capital lease obligations, net of current maturities$403,287
 $99,240

57 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


In February 2011, the Company maintains a $450 million revolving credit facility that matures in July 2012 pursuant to anamended and restated its unsecured committed bank credit agreement with Bank of America, N.A., as administrative agent, and the other lenders party thereto.thereto to increase the amount available to $650 million from $450 million, including $30 million in Canadian Dollar availability. The maturity was also extended to February 2016. Interest rates on outstanding indebtedness under the amended agreement are based, at the Company’s option, on either the London Interbank Offered Rate (or the Canadian equivalent) plus a spread of between 0.50%1.75% and 1.00%2.75%, with the amount of the spread based on a pricing grid tied to the Company’s leverage ratio, or the greater of the prime rate or the federal fundsbase rate plus 0.50%a spread of between 0% and 1%. In addition, annual commitment fees are payable on the unused portion of the credit facility at rates between 0.10%0.25% and 0.25%0.45%, which is based on a pricing grid tied to the Company’s leverage ratio. The Company paid commitment feeshad borrowings outstanding under the credit facility of less than $1$393 million for the years ended and $90 million as of August 31, 2010, 20092011 and 2008.2010, respectively. The weighted average interest rate on amounts outstanding under this facility was 0.79%2.48% and 0.78%0.79% as of August 31, 20102011 and 2009,2010, respectively. The bank credit agreement contains various representations and warranties, events of default and financial and other covenants, including covenants regarding maintenance of a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  63


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

and a maximum leverage ratio. As of August 31, 2010 and 2009, the Company was in compliance with all such covenants.

Principal payments on long-term debt and capital lease obligations during the next five fiscal years and thereafter are as follows (in thousands):

Years ending August 31,  Long-term
Debt
   Capital
Lease
Obligations
  Total 

2011

  $645    $673   $1,318  

2012

   90,000     645    90,645  

2013

   0     589    589  

2014

   0     397    397  

2015

   0     90    90  

Thereafter

   7,700     2    7,702  
              
   98,345     2,396    100,741  

Amounts representing interest

   0     (312  (312
              
  $98,345    $2,084   $100,429  
              

Letters

Years ending August 31, 
Long-Term
Debt
 
Capital
Lease
Obligations
 Total
2012 $
 $859
 $859
2013 
 827
 827
2014 
 597
 597
2015 
 279
 279
2016 393,428
 187
 393,615
Thereafter 7,700
 762
 8,462
Total 401,128
 3,511
 404,639
Amounts representing interest and executory costs 
 (709) (709)
Total less interest $401,128
 $2,802
 $403,930

The Company had outstanding letters of credit totaling $18$18 million were outstanding as of August 31, 2011 and 2010, related to certain obligations, including workers’ compensation and performance bonds.

Note 1211 – Commitments and Contingencies

Commitments
Commitments

The Company leases a portion of its capital equipment and certain of its facilities under leases that expire at various dates through July 2024. Rent expense was $18$25 million $19, $18 million and $21$19 million for fiscal 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008,2009, respectively. See Note 19 – Related Party Transactions for a discussion of leases with related parties.

The Company’s steel manufacturing operations are exposed to market risk due to variations in the market price of natural gas. As a result, the Company uses derivative instruments, specifically forward purchases, to manage these inherent commodity price risks. SMB has a take-or-pay natural gas contract that expires on May 31, 2011 and obligates it to purchase minimum quantities per day through October 31, 2010, whether or not the amount is utilized.

The fair value of the natural gas contract is determined using a forward price curve based on observable market price quotations at a major natural gas trading hub. Effective for the delivery period from November 1, 2009 through October 31, 2010, the committed rate is $10.99 per million British Thermal Units (“MMBTU”). See Note 14 – Derivative Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements for further disclosures.

SMB also has an electricity contract with McMinnville Water and Light that requires a minimum purchase of electricity at a rate subject to variable pricing, whether or not the amount is utilized. The contract expires in September 2011.

64  /  Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The table below sets forth the Company’s future minimum obligations under non-cancelable operating leases from unrelated parties, service obligations and purchase commitments as of August 31, 20102011 (in thousands):

Fiscal Year  Operating
Leases
  Service
Obligations
  Purchase
Commitments
  Total

2011

  $14,459  $1,399  $4,881  $20,739

2012

   12,476   418   890   13,784

2013

   10,350   83   0   10,433

2014

   7,628   30   0   7,658

2015

   4,012   30   0   4,042

Thereafter

   4,965   0   0   4,965
                

Total

  $53,890  $1,960  $5,771  $61,621
                

Years ending August 31, 
Operating
Leases
2012 $20,434
2013 18,116
2014 15,383
2015 11,092
2016 5,975
Thereafter 20,146
Total $91,146

Contingencies – Environmental

The Company evaluates the adequacy of its reserves for environmental liabilities on a quarterly basis in accordance with Company policy. Adjustments to the liabilitiespolicy and adjustments are made when additional information becomes available that affects the estimated costs to study or

58 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


remediate any environmental issues or expenditures are made for which reserves were established.

Changes in the Company’s reserves for environmental liabilities for the years ended August 31, 20102011 and 20092010 were as follows (in thousands):

Reporting
Segment
 Balance
9/1/2008
 Reserves
Released,
Net(1)
  Payments  Ending
Balance
8/31/2009
 Reserves
Established
(Released),
Net(2)
  Payments  Ending
Balance
8/31/2010
 Short-Term Long-Term

Metals Recycling Business

 $26,704 $(519)  $(577 $25,608 $710   $(944 $25,374 $2,034 $23,340

Auto Parts Business

  17,000  (700  0    16,300  (1,800  0    14,500  554  13,946
                               

Total

 $43,704 $(1,219 $(577 $41,908 $(1,090 $(944 $39,874 $2,588 $37,286
                               

Reporting
Segment
Balance
9/1/2009

 
Reserves Established
(Released),
Net(1)
 Payments 
Ending
Balance
8/31/2010

 
Reserves
Established
(Released),
Net(2)
 Payments 
Ending
Balance
8/31/2011

 Short-Term Long-Term
Metals Recycling Business$25,608
 $710
 $(944) $25,374
 $1,040
 $(759) $25,655
 $2,429
 $23,226
Auto Parts Business16,300
 (1,800) 
 14,500
 700
 
 15,200
 554
 14,646
Total$41,908
 $(1,090) $(944) $39,874
 $1,740
 $(759) $40,855
 $2,983
 $37,872
_____________________________
(1)

During fiscal 2009,2010, the Company released $4$2 million in environmental reserves, primarily related to the resolution of the Hylebos Waterway litigation, which was partially offset by $2 million in environmental liabilities recorded in purchase accounting related to acquisitions completed in fiscal 2009 and $1 million in new reserves.

(2)

During fiscal 2010, the Company released $2 million in environmental reserves through discontinued operations related to the full-service auto parts operation, which was partially offset by $1$1 million in environmental liabilities recorded in purchase accounting.

(2)
During fiscal 2011, the Company recorded $1 million in environmental liabilities in purchase accounting related to acquisitions completed in fiscal 2011.


Metals Recycling Business

As of August 31, 2010,2011, MRB had environmental reserves of $25$26 million for the potential remediation of locations where it has conducted business andor has environmental liabilities from historical or recent activities.

Portland Harbor

The

In December 2000, the Company has beenwas notified by the USUnited States Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (“CERCLA”) that it is one of at least 100the potentially responsible parties (“PRPs”) that own or operate or formerly owned or operated sites which are part of or adjacent to the Portland Harbor Superfund site (the “Site”). The precise nature and extent of any cleanup of the Site, the parties to be involved, the process to be followed for any cleanup and the allocation of the costs for any cleanup among responsible parties have not yet been determined, but the process of identifying additional PRPs and beginning allocation of costs is underway. The EPA has indicated that it expects to issue a record of decision that will discuss remedial alternatives for the Site sometime in 2013. It is unclear to what extent the Company will be liable for environmental costs or natural resource damage claims or third party contribution or damage claims with respect to the Site. While the Company participated in certain

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  65


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

preliminary Site study efforts, it is not party to the consent order entered into by the EPA with certain other PRPs, referred to as the “Lower Willamette Group” (“LWG”), for a remedial investigation/feasibility study (“RI/FS”).

During fiscal 2007, the Company and certain other parties agreed to an interim settlement with the LWG under which the Company made a cash contribution to the LWG RI/FS. The Company has also joined with more than 80 other PRPs, including the LWG, in a voluntary process to establish an allocation of costs at the Site. These parties have selected an allocation team and are finalizingfinalized an allocation process design agreement. The LWG has also commenced federal court litigation, which has been stayed, seeking to bring additional parties into the allocation process.

In January 2008, the Natural Resource Damages Trustee Council (“Trustees”) for Portland Harbor invited the Company and other PRPs to participate in funding and implementing the Natural Resource Injury Assessment for the Site. Following meetings among the Trustees and the PRPs, a funding and participation agreement was negotiated under which the participating PRPs agreed to fund the first phase of the natural resource damage assessment. The Company joined in that Phase I agreement and paid a portion of those costs. The Company did not participate in funding the second phase of the natural resource damage assessment.

The cost of the investigations and any remediation associated with the Site will not be reasonably estimable until completion of the data review and further investigations now being conducted by the LWG and the Trustees and the selection and approval of a remedy by the EPA. However, given the size of the Site and the nature of the conditions identified to date, the total cost of the investigations and remediation is likely to be substantial. In addition, because there has not been a determination of the total cost of the investigations, the remediation that will be required, the amount of natural resource damages or how the costs of the ongoing investigations and any remedy and natural resource damages will be allocated among the PRPs, it is not possible to estimate the costs which the Company might incur in connection with the Site, although such costs could be material to the Company’s financial position, or results of operations.operations, cash flows or liquidity. The Company has insurance policies that we believeit believes will provide reimbursement for costs we incurit incurs for defense and remediation in connection with the Site, although there is no assurance that those

59 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


policies will cover all of the costs which wethe Company may incur. In fiscal 2006, the Company recorded a liability for its then estimated share of the costs of the investigation incurred by the LWG to date. As of August 31, 20102011 and 2009,2010, the Company’s reserve for third party investigation costs of the Site was $1 million.

$1 million.

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality is separately providing oversight of voluntary investigationinvestigations by the Company involving the Company’s sites adjacent to the Portland Harbor which are focused on controlling any current “uplands” releases of contaminants into the Willamette River. No reserves have been established in connection with these investigations because the extent of contamination (if any) and the Company’s responsibility for the contamination (if any) has not yet been determined.

Other Metals Recycling Business Sites

As of August 31, 2010,2011, the Company had environmental reserves related to various MRB sites other than Portland Harbor of $24 million.$25 million. The reserves, which range in amounts from less than $1up to $2 million to $2 million per site, relate to the potential future remediation of soil contamination, groundwater contamination and storm water runoff issues. No material environmental compliance enforcement proceedings are currently pending related to these sites.

Auto Parts Business

As of August 31, 2010,2011, the Company had environmental reserves related to various APB sites of $15 million.$15 million. The reserves, which range in amounts from less than $1up to $2 million to $2 million per site, relate to the potential future remediation of soil contamination, groundwater contamination and storm water runoff issues. No material environmental compliance enforcement proceedings are currently pending related to these sites.

66  /  Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Steel Manufacturing Business

SMB’s electric arc furnace generates dust (“EAF dust”) that is classified as hazardous waste by the EPA because of its zinc and lead content. As a result, the Company captures the EAF dust and ships it in specialized rail cars to a domestic firm that applies a treatment that allows the EAF dust to be delisted as hazardous waste so it can be disposed of as a non-hazardous solid waste.

SMB has an operating permit issued under Title V of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, which governs certain air quality standards. The permit was first issued in 1998, and has since been renewed through 2012.March 1, 2012 and is expected to be renewed again prior to its expiration. The permit is based onupon an annual production capacity of 950 thousand tons.

SMB had no environmental reserves as of August 31, 2010.

2011.

Other than the Portland Harbor Superfund site, which is discussed above, management currently believes that adequate provision has been made in the financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements for the potential impact of these issues and that the ultimate outcomes will not significantly impacthave a material adverse effect on the financial position or the results of operationsConsolidated Financial Statements of the Company although they may haveas a material impact on earnings for a particular quarter.whole. Historically, the amounts the Company has ultimately paid for such remediation activities have not been material.

material in any given period.

Note 12 - Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest
In March 2011, the Company, through a wholly-owned acquisition subsidiary, acquired substantially all of the metals recycling business assets of Amix Salvage & Sales Ltd. As part of the purchase consideration, the Company issued the seller common shares equal to 20% of the issued and outstanding capital stock of the Company’s acquisition subsidiary. Under the terms of an agreement related to the acquisition, the noncontrolling interest owner has the right to require the Company to purchase its 20% interest in the Company’s acquisition subsidiary for fair value (the “Redemption Option”). The noncontrolling interest becomes redeemable within 60 days after the later of (i) the third anniversary of the date of the acquisition and (ii) the date on which certain principals of the minority shareholder are no longer employed by the Company. The conditions for redemption of the noncontrolling interest had not been met as of August 31, 2011.
As of August 31, 2011, the fair value of the redeemable noncontrolling interest was $19 million. No material changes in fair value were recorded since the initial measurement of the noncontrolling interest. The Company estimates fair value using Level 3 inputs under the fair value hierarchy based on standard valuation techniques using a discounted cash flow analysis. The determination of fair value requires management to apply significant judgment in formulating estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions primarily include forecasts of future cash flows based on management’s best estimate of future sales and operating costs; pricing expectations; capital expenditures; working capital requirements; discount rates; growth rates; tax rates; and general market conditions.

60 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


Note 13 – Accumulated Other Comprehensive LossIncome (Loss)

The components of accumulated other comprehensive loss,income (loss), net of tax, are as follows as of August 31 (in thousands):

   2010  2009 

Cumulative foreign currency translation adjustment

  $2,419   $1,896  

Pension obligations, net

   (4,855  (3,906

Net unrealized loss on cash flow hedges

   (116  (536
         
  $(2,552 $(2,546
         


 2011 2010
Foreign currency translation adjustment$5,451
 $2,419
Pension obligations, net(3,886) (4,855)
Net unrealized loss on cash flow hedges(25) (116)
Total accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)$1,540
 $(2,552)
Note 14 – Derivative Financial Instruments
Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk Management
To manage exposure to foreign exchange rate risk, the Company may enter into foreign currency forward contracts to stabilize the U.S. dollar amount of the transaction at settlement. When such contracts are not designated as hedging instruments for accounting purposes, the realized and Fair Value Measurements

unrealized gains and losses on settled and unsettled forward contracts measured at fair value are recognized as other income or expense in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. No undesignated contracts were outstanding as of August 31, 2011 and 2010, and realized gains and losses on such derivatives were not material to any of the periods presented.

The Company entered into forward contracts during fiscal 2011 to mitigate exposure to exchange rate fluctuations on Euro-denominated fixed asset purchases, which have been designated as cash flow hedges for accounting purposes. These foreign currency forward contracts are measured using forward exchange rates based on observable exchange rates quoted in an active market and are classified as a Level 1 fair value measurement under the fair value hierarchy. As of August 31, 2011, the nominal amount of open forward contracts, their fair value and the related unrealized losses recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) were not material to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Natural gas price risk management

In order to minimize the volatility of its natural gas costs, SMB entered into a take-or-pay natural gas contract that obligatesobligated it to purchase a minimum of 2,000 MMBTUs per day through October 31, 2010, whether or not the amount iswas utilized. The contract expiresexpired on May 31, 2011.

Fair value measurement

SMB’s natural gas The contract is classified asmet the definition of a derivative instrument and carried at fair value. Fair value for this instrument, the Company’s only financial instrumentwas carried at fair value is determined using a forward price curve based on observable market price quotations at a major natural gas trading hub. The Company considers nonperformancehub, under consideration of non-performance risk, in calculating fair value adjustments. This includes a credit risk adjustment based on the credit spreads of the counterparty when the Companywhich is in an unrealized gain position or on the Company’s own credit spread when the Company is in an unrealized loss position. This assessment of nonperformance risk is generally derived from the credit default swap market or from bond market credit spreads. The impact of the credit risk adjustments for the Company’s outstanding derivative was not material to the fair value calculation as of August 31, 2010. Mark-to-market adjustments on this instrument resulted in a derivative liability of $1 million as of August 31, 2010 compared to $6 million as of August 31, 2009. This amount is classified asconsidered a Level 2 fair value measurement under the fair value hierarchy described in Note 2 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies.

Derivative designated as a hedging instrument

On September 1, 2008, the Company designated the entire remaininghierarchy. A portion of the natural gas contract as a cash flow hedge. Dueequivalent to changes in the expectation of the Company’s future production as a result of changes in market conditions, the Company de-designated the contract as a hedge and re-designated only a portion, 20,000 MMBTUs MMBTU per month was designated as a cash flow hedge inon October 1, 2008. The remaining portion of the contract is accounted for as a derivative not designated as a hedge.

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  67


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive income (“AOCI”) are reclassified to cost of goods sold when the forecasted purchase transaction is recognized in earnings and when ineffectiveness arises out of the hedge. Included in other accrued liabilities is the fair value of the designated hedge portion of thenatural gas derivative of less than $1 million and $2 millioncontract was not material as of August 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The effective portion of realized losses reclassified into cost of goods sold was $1 million2010. All amounts recognized for the years ended August 31, 2010effective and 2009. The ineffective portion of unrealized losses included in cost of goods sold was less than $1 million for the years ended August 31, 2010 and 2009. The unrealized loss, net of tax, for the effective portion of the hedge was less than $1 million and $1 million for the years ended August 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Upon de-designation of the cash flow hedge in October 2008, $1 million was reclassified from AOCI to cost of goods sold. Existing unrealized losses, net of tax, of less than $1 million currently recorded in AOCI are expected to be reclassified into cost of goods sold in the first quarter of the year ending August 31, 2011. No derivatives were designated as hedges in fiscal 2008.

Derivative not designated as a hedging instrument

For theundesignated portion of the natural gas contract were not designated as a hedge, the Company recognizes the change in fair value in cost of goods sold in the period of change. Included in other accrued liabilities is the fair value of the derivative not designated as a hedge of $1 million and $4 million as of August 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Net gains (losses) of $3 million, ($1) million and ($3) million were recognized in cost of goods soldmaterial for the years ended August 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

all periods presented.

Note 15 – Employee Benefits

The Company and certain of its subsidiaries have qualified and nonqualified retirement plans covering substantially all employees of these companies. These plans include a defined benefit pension plan, a supplemental executive retirement benefit plan (“SERBP”), multiemployer pension plans and defined contribution plans.

Defined Benefit Pension Plan and Supplemental Executive Retirement Benefit Plan

The Company maintains a qualified defined benefit pension plan for certain nonunion employees. Effective June 30, 2006, the Company froze this plan and ceased accruing further benefits. The Company reflects the funded status of the defined benefit pension plan as a net asset in its consolidated balance sheets.Consolidated Balance Sheets. Changes in its funded status are recognized in comprehensive income. Net periodic pension benefit cost was $1 millionnot material for the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 respectively and income of less than $1 million was recognized in the year ended August 31, 2008.. The fair value of the plan assets was $15$17 million and $14$15 million as of August 31, 20102011 and 2009,2010, respectively and the projected benefit obligation was $15$15 million and $14$15 million as of August 31, 20102011 and 2009,2010, respectively. The plan was fully funded with plan assets exceeding the projected benefit obligation by $2 million and less than $1$1 million and $1 million as of August 31, 20102011 and 2009,2010, respectively. Plan assets arewere comprised of $14$16 million and $14 million of Level 1 investments and $1$1 million and $1 million of Level 2 investments as of August 31, 2010.2011 and August 31, 2010, respectively. Level 1 assets are valued based on quoted market price of identical securities in the principal market. Level 2 investments are valued at the net asset value of the fund which is provided by the fund’s manager and independent administrator. No contributions are expected to be made to the defined benefit pension plan in the future; however, changes in the discount rate or actual investment returns that are lower than the long-term expected return on plan assets could result in the need for the Company to make additional contributions. The assumed discount rate used to calculate the projected

61 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


benefit obligations was 4.87%4.97% and 5.36%4.87% as of August 31, 20102011 and 2009,2010, respectively. The Company estimates future annual benefit payments to approximate $1be between $1 million and $3 million per year.

The Company also has a nonqualified SERBP for certain executives. A restricted trust fund has been established with assets invested in life insurance policies that can be used for plan benefits, although the fund is subject to claims of the Company’s general creditors. The trust fund is included in other assets and the pension liability is included in other long-term liabilities in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets.Consolidated Balance Sheets. The trust fund is valued at $2$2 million as of August 31, 20102011 and 2009.2010. The trust fund assets’ gains and losses are included in other income (expense) in the Company’s consolidated statementsConsolidated Statements of operations.Operations. The benefit obligation and the unfunded amount each were $3$3 million and $2 million as of August 31, 20102011 and 2009,2010, respectively. The Company estimates future annual benefit

68  /  Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

payments to approximate less than $1 million per year. Net periodic pension benefit cost recognized for the SERBP, consisting primarily of interest cost, was less than $1 million for the years ended August 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008.

Because the defined benefit pension plan and the SERBP are immaterialnot material to the consolidated financial statementsConsolidated Financial Statements other disclosures required by generally accepted accounting principlesU.S. GAAP have been omitted.

Multiemployer Pension Plans

The Company contributes to various13 multiemployer pension plans in accordance with its collective bargaining agreements. Multiemployer pension plans are defined benefit plans sponsored by multiple employers in accordance with one or more collective bargaining agreements. The plans are jointly managed by trustees that include representatives from both management and labor unions. Contributions to the plans are made based upon a fixed rate per hour worked and are agreed to by contributing employers and the unions in collective bargaining. Benefit levels are set by a joint board of trustees based on the advice of an independent actuary regarding the level of benefits that agreed-upon contributions can be expected to support. To the extent that the pension obligation of other participating employers is unfunded, the Company may be required to make additional contributions in the future to fund these obligations. Company contributions to
One of the multiemployer plans were $3that the Company contributes to is the Steelworkers Western Independent Shops Pension Plan (EIN 90-0169564, Plan No. 001) benefiting the union employees of SMB. The collective bargaining agreement associated with this plan expires on March 31, 2012. This plan had a certified zone status, as required by the Pension Protection Act of 2006, of Red as of August 31, 2011 and 2010 for the plan’s year-end at September 30, 2010 and 2009, respectively. The zone status is based on information the Company received from the plan’s administrator and is certified by the plan’s actuary. Although the plan is 81.4% funded, the plan is considered to be in Red Zone because there was a projected deficiency in the funding standard account within one year. The plan did not utilize any extended amortization provisions in its calculation of zone status. As a result of being in Red Zone Status, the plan has adopted a rehabilitation plan which requires annual contribution rate increases of 6%. The rehabilitation plan was adopted by all contributing employers. The Company was not required to pay a surcharge to the Plan. The Company contributed $2 million $3 million and $4 million for to the plan in each of the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008, respectively.

Approximately 60%2009. These contributions represented more than 5% of the Company’s multiemployer pension plan contributions are made to the Western Independent Shops Pension Trust (the “WISP Trust”) for the benefit of union employees of SMB. In 2004, the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) approved a seven-year extension of the period over which the WISP Trust may amortize unfunded liabilities, conditioned upon maintenance of certain minimum funding levels. Based on the actuarial valuation for the WISP Trust as of October 1, 2009 (the latest available actuarial information), the funded percentage of the WISP Trust (based on the ratio of the market value of assets to the accumulated benefits liability (present value of accrued benefits)) was 65.4%, which is below the targeted funding ratio specified in the agreement with the IRS. As a result, the WISP Trust is in the process of seeking relief from the specified funding requirement from the IRS. If the WISP Trust cannot obtain relief, revocation by the IRS of the amortization extension retroactively to the 2002 plan year could occur and result in a material liability for the Company’s share of the resulting funding deficiency, the extent of which currently cannot be estimated.

In 2006, the Pension Protection Act (the “Act”) became law and, together with related regulations, established new minimum funding requirements for multiemployer pension plans. The Act mandates that multiemployer pension plans that are below certain funding levels or that have projected funding deficiencies adopt a funding improvement plan or a rehabilitation program to improve the funding levels over a defined period of time. In January 2010, the Company was notified by the plan administrator of the WISP Trust that the plan is in “critical status” for 2009 because without the benefit of the relief from the IRS discussed above, the WISP Trust’s funding standard account is expected to show a funding deficiency as of September 30, 2010. As a result, the trustees of the WISP Trust are required to update the WISP Trust’s rehabilitation plan. Adoption of any updates to the rehabilitation plan is subject to collective bargaining. The current contribution rate increases 6% per year. At this time, the Company is not required to increase itstotal contributions to the WISP Trust beyond the 6%.

In December 2008, the Worker, Retiree, and Employer Recovery Act of 2008 (the “Recovery Act”) became law. For plan years beginning October 1, 2008 through September 30, 2009, the Recovery Act allows multiemployer plansfor each year.

Company contributions to freeze their funding certification based on the funding status of the previous plan year. In addition, the Recovery Act provides multiemployer plans in “endangered” or “critical” status in plan years beginning in 2008 or 2009 a three-year extension of the plan’s funding improvement or rehabilitation period. The Company has been notified by several of the other multiemployer plans to which it contributes that the underlying plans would have been in “critical status” had they not frozen their 2008 funding status under the Recovery Act.

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  69


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Company also has contingent liabilities for its share of the unfunded liabilities of each plan to which it contributes, including a withdrawal liability of $28 million for the WISP Trust (calculated by the trust’s actuary as of September 30, 2009). The withdrawal liabilities would be triggered only if the Company were to withdraw or partially withdraw from the respective plans. Because the Company has no current intention of withdrawing from anyall of the multiemployer plans in which it participates, it has not recognized a liabilitywere $3 million for these contingencies.

the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009.

Defined Contribution Plans

The Company has several defined contribution plans covering certain employees. Company contributions to the defined contribution plans totaled $3$3 million $4, $1 million and $7$4 million for the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008,2009, respectively. The Company suspended employer contributions to these plans in March 2009 and resumed certain contributions to these plans in April 2010. The Company expects to make contributions of $3 million to its defined contribution plans in the year ending August 31, 2011.

Note 16 – Share-Based Compensation

The Company’s 1993 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended, (“the Plan”) was established for its employees, consultants and directors. At the 2006 Annual Meeting of Shareholders, the Company’s shareholders approved amendments to the Plan to (a) authorize the grant of performance-based long-term incentive awards (“performance-based awards”) under the Plan that would be eligible for treatment as performance-based compensation under Section 162(m) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and (b) increase the per-employee limit on grants of options and stock appreciation rights under the Plan from 100,000 shares to 150,000 shares annually. At the Annual Meeting of Shareholders on January 28, 2009, the Company’s shareholders approved an amendment to the Plan to increase the number ofThere are 12.2 million shares of Class A common stock reserved for issuance under the Plan, from 7.2of which 6.5 million shares to 12.2 million shares. are available for future grants as of August 31, 2011. Share-based compensation expense was $11$14 million $9, $11 million and $14$9 million for the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008,2009, respectively. Tax benefits used for option exercises and vesting of restricted stock units of less than $1 million were recognizednot material for the year ended August 31, 2010 and tax benefits realized were $1 million and $2 million for the years ended August 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

In connection with former Chief Executive Officer John D. Carter’s planned transition from Chief Executive Officer to executive Chairman of the Board effective December 1, 2008, the Company entered into an amended and restated employment agreement which reduced Mr. Carter’s annual salary, capped future annual bonus awards, limited his entitlement to forward participation in the Company’s Long Term Incentive Plan to vesting of prior awards and granted Mr. Carter a stock award having a grant date fair value of $2 million, which fully vested on the grant date. The $2 million is included in the total share-based compensation expense for the year ended August 31, 2009 described above.

all periods presented.

Restricted Stock Units

The Plan provides for the issuance of RSUs. The estimated fair value of the RSUs is based on the market closing price of the underlying Class A common stock on the date of grant. The compensation expense associated with the RSUs granted is recognized over the respective requisite service period of the awards.

awards, net of estimated forfeitures.

During the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008,2009, the Compensation Committee granted 115,179135,255 RSUs, 104,399153,986 RSUs and 74,593106,387 RSUs, respectively, to its key employees, officers and officersdirectors under the Plan. The RSUs have a five-yearfive-year term and vest 20% per year commencing June 1 of the year after grant.

On April 27, 2010, the Compensation Committeegrant, except for an immaterial number of awards granted 25,000 RSUs to Tamara Lundgren, the Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer. The RSUs have a two-year term and vest 100% on April 27, 2012.

with different terms. The estimated fair value of the RSUs granted during the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 2009 and 20082009 was $7$7 million $5, $7 million and $7$5 million, respectively.


7062 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 20102011


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS



A summary of the Company’s restricted stock unit activity is as follows:

   

Number of
Shares

(in thousands)

  Weighted
Average Grant
Date Fair Value
  Fair Value(1)

Outstanding as of August 31, 2007

  248   $44.83  
       

Granted

  75   $87.52  

Vested

  (60  44.36  $102.85

Forfeited

  (2  43.75  
       

Outstanding as of August 31, 2008

  261   $57.19  
       

Granted

  106   $51.08  

Vested

  (80  53.56  $53.95

Forfeited

  (26  56.93  
       

Outstanding as of August 31, 2009

  261   $56.20  
       

Granted

  154   $48.83  

Vested

  (88  52.45  $46.48

Forfeited

  (16  57.37  
       

Outstanding as of August 31, 2010

  311   $53.55  
       

 
Number of
Shares
(in thousands)
 
Weighted
Average Grant
Date Fair Value
 
Fair Value(1)
Outstanding as of August 31, 2008261 $57.19
  
Granted106 $51.08
  
Vested(80) 53.56
 $53.95
Forfeited(26) 56.93
  
Outstanding as of August 31, 2009261 $56.20
  
Granted154 $48.83
  
Vested(88) 52.45
 $46.48
Forfeited(16) 57.37
  
Outstanding as of August 31, 2010311 $53.55
  
Granted135 $53.65
  
Vested(94) 51.86
 $57.63
Forfeited(4) 52.42
  
Outstanding as of August 31, 2011348 $54.06
  
_____________________________
(1)

Amounts represent the value of the Company’s Class A common stock on the date that the restricted stock units vested.


The Company recognized compensation expense associated with RSUs of $5$7 million $4, $5 million and $4$4 million for the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008,2009, respectively. As of August 31, 2010,2011, total unrecognized compensation costs related to unvested RSUs amounted to $14$13 million, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 3three years. Tax benefits used of less than $1 million were recognized for RSUs vested in each of the years ended August 31, 2010 and 2009, and tax benefits realized were $1 million for the year ended August 31, 2008.

Performance Share Awards

The Plan authorizes performance-based awards to certain employees subject to certain conditions and restrictions. A participant generally must be employed by the Company on October 31 following the end of the performance period to receive an award payout, although adjusted awards will be paid if employment terminates earlier on account of death, disability, retirement, termination without cause after the first year of the performance period or a sale of the Company or the reporting segments for which the participant works. Awards will be paid in Class A common stock as soon as practicable after October 31 following the end of the performance period.

The Company accrues compensation cost for performance share awards based on the probable outcome of specified performance conditions, net of estimated forfeitures. The Company accrues compensation cost if it is probable that the performance conditions will be achieved. The Company reassesses whether achievement of the performance conditions are probable at each reporting date. If it is probable that the actual performance results will exceed the stated target performance conditions, the Company accrues additional compensation cost for the additional performance shares to be awarded. If, upon reassessment, it is no longer probable that the actual performance results will exceed the stated target performance conditions, or that it is no longer probable that the target performance condition will be achieved, the Company reverses any recognized compensation cost for shares no longer probable of being issued. If the performance conditions are not achieved at the end of the service period, all related compensation cost previously recognized is reversed.

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  71


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Fiscal 2006200920082011 Performance Share Awards

On November 29, 2005, the

The Compensation Committee approved performance-based awards under the Plan. The Compensation Committee approved additional awards on the same terms to two executive officers and one officer inPlan with a division on January 30, 2006 and April 28, 2006, respectively.

The Compensation Committee established a series of performance targets, which included the Company’s total shareholder return for the performance period relative to the S&P 500 Industrials (weighted at 50%), the operating income per ton of MRB for the performance period (weighted at 16 2/3%), the number of Economic Value Added positive stores of APB for the last year of the performance period (weighted at 16 2/3%) and the man hours per ton of SMB for the performance period (weighted at 16 2/3%), corresponding to award payouts ranging from 25% to 300% of the weighted portions of the target awards. For participants who worked exclusively in one reporting segment, the awards were weighted 50% on the performance measure for their segment and 50% on total shareholder return.

The fair value of performance-based awards granted during the period was determined by multiplying the total number of shares of Class A common stock expected to be issued by the Company’s closing stock price as of thegrant date of the grant and was recognized over the requisite service period of 2.9 years. The weighted average fair value of performance-based awards granted during the year ended August 31, 2006 was $34.27. These performance-based awards vested during the year ended August 31, 2009.

Fiscal 2007 – 2009 Performance Share Awards

On November 27, 2006, the Compensation Committee approved performance-based awards under the Plan.24, 2008. The Compensation Committee established performance targets based on the Company’s average growth in earnings per share (weighted at 50%) and the Company’s average return on capital employed (weighted at 50%) for the three years of the performance period, with award payouts ranging from a threshold of 50% to a maximum of 200% for each portion of the target awards. For measuring earnings per share growth in the year ended August 31, 2007, the Compensation Committee set the fiscal 2006 diluted earnings per share amount lower than the actual amount, reflecting the elimination of certain large non-recurring items. The weighted average grant date fair value of performance-based awards granted during the year ended August 31, 2007 was $39.72. These performance-based awards vested during the year ended August 31, 2010.

Fiscal 2008201020102012 Performance Share Awards

On October 31, 2007, the

The Compensation Committee approved performance-based awards under the Plan. The Compensation Committee established performance targets based on the Company’s average growth in earnings per share (weighted at 50%) and the Company’s average return on capital employed (weighted at 50%) for the three years of the performance period,Plan with award payouts ranging from a threshold of 50% to a maximum of 200% for each portion of the target awards. The weighted average grant date fair value of performance-based awards granted during the year ended August 31, 2008 was $63.82.

Fiscal 2009 – 2011 Performance Share Awards

On November 24, 2008, the Compensation Committee approved performance-based awards under the Plan. The Compensation Committee established performance targets based on the Company’s average growth in earnings per share (weighted at 50%) and the Company’s average return on capital employed (weighted at 50%) for the three years of the performance period, with award payouts ranging from a threshold of 50% to a maximum of 200% for each portion of the target awards. The weighted average grant date fair value of performance-based awards granted during the year ended August 31, 2009 was $22.30.

Fiscal 2010 – 2012 Performance Share Awards

On November 20, 2009 the Compensation Committee approved performance-based awards under the Plan.. The Compensation Committee established performance targets based on the Company’s earnings per share (weighted at 50%) and the average return on capital employed on a divisional basis (weighted at 50%) for the three years of the performance period, with award payouts ranging from a threshold of 50% to a maximum of 200% for each portion of

the target awards.


7263 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 20102011


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS



Fiscal 2011 – 2013 Performance Share Awards
The Compensation Committee approved performance-based awards under the target awards. The weighted averagePlan with a grant date fair value of performance-based awards granted duringDecember 3, 2010. The Compensation Committee established performance targets based on the year ended August 31, 2010 was $47.10.

Company’s earnings per share (weighted at 50%) and the average return on capital employed on a divisional basis (weighted at 50%) for the three years of the performance period, with award payouts ranging from a threshold of 50% to a maximum of 200% for each portion of the awards.

A summary of the Company’s performance-based awards activity is as follows:

   

Number of
Shares

(in thousands)

  Weighted
Average Grant
Date Fair Value
 

Outstanding as of August 31, 2007

   462   $38.77  
      

Granted

   103   $63.82  

Forfeited

   (8  38.60  
      

Outstanding as of August 31, 2008

   557   $43.41  
      

Granted

   57   $22.30  

Vested

   (153  34.46  

Forfeited

   (182  40.17  
      

Outstanding as of August 31, 2009

   279   $44.64  
      

Granted

   125   $46.71  

Vested

   (121  39.72  

Forfeited

   (17  42.77  
      

Outstanding as of August 31, 2010

   266   $47.95  
      

 
Number of
Shares
(in thousands)
 
Weighted
Average Grant
Date Fair Value
 
Fair Value(1)
Outstanding as of August 31, 2008557
 $43.41
  
Granted57
 $22.30
  
Vested(153) 34.46
 $26.93
Forfeited(182) 40.17
  
Outstanding as of August 31, 2009279
 $44.64
  
Granted125
 $46.71
  
Vested(121) 39.72
 $43.24
Forfeited(17) 42.77
  
Outstanding as of August 31, 2010266
 $47.95
  
Granted115
 $59.45
  
Vested(90) 63.82
 $52.13
Forfeited(6) 53.35
  
Outstanding as of August 31, 2011285
 $47.48
  
_____________________________
(1)Amounts represent the value of the Company’s Class A common stock on the date that the performance share awards vested.

Compensation expense associated with performance-based awards was calculated using management’s current estimate of the expected level of achievement of the performance targets under the Plan. Compensation expense for anticipated awards based on the Company’s financial performance was $3$6 million, $3 million and less than $1$1 million and $8 million for the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008,2009, respectively. As of August 31, 2010,2011, unrecognized compensation costs related to non-vested performance shares amounted to $5$8 million, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.31.6 years.

Deferred Stock Units

The Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors (“DSU Plan”) provides for the issuance of DSUs to non-employee directors to be granted under the Plan. One DSU gives the director the right to receive one share of Class A common stock at a future date. Annually, immediatelyImmediately following the annual meeting of shareholders, each non-employee director will receive DSUs which will become fully vested on the day before the next annual meeting, subject to continued service on the Board. The compensation expense associated with the DSUs will also become fully vested ongranted is recognized over the death or disability of a director or a change in controlrespective requisite service period of the Company (as defined in the DSU award agreement).

After the DSUs vest, directors are credited with additional whole or fractional shares to reflect dividends that would have been paid on the stock subject to the DSUs. awards.

The Company will issue Class A common stock to a director pursuant to vested DSUs in a lump sum in January of the first year after the director ceases to be a director of the Company, subject to the right of the director to elect an installment payment program under the DSU Plan. The compensation expense associated with the DSUs granted is recognized over the respective requisite service period of the awards.

During the years ended August 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, each non-employee director was granted DSUs equal to $120,000. During the years ended August 31, 2010, 2009 (and 2008 for Mr. Carter), John Carter, the Chairman, and Tamara Lundgren, the President and Chief Executive Officer, received compensation pursuant to their employment agreements and did not receive DSUs. During the year ended August 31, 2008, the then Chairman of the Board was granted DSUs equal to $180,000.

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  73


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

In April 2009, two new non-employee directors were elected to the Company’s Board of Directors, and each received DSUs equal to $90,000. These DSUs vested on January 26, 2010, the day before the 2010 annual meeting.

DSUs granted during the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 2009 and 20082009 were for a total of 30,83417,459 shares, 28,63830,834 shares and 20,35628,638 shares, respectively. The Company recognized compensation expense associated with DSUs and the total value of $1 millionshares vested during each of the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008. The total value of shares vested during2009, as well as the years ended August 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 was $1 million. Asunrecognized compensation expense as of August 31, 2010, unrecognized compensation costs related to non-vested DSUs amounted to $1 million, which will be recognized during the year ending August 31, 2011.

2011, were not material.

Stock Options

Under the Plan, stock options are granted to employees at exercise prices equal to the fair market value of the Company’s Class A common stock at the dates of grant at the sole discretion of the Board of Directors. Generally, stock options vest ratably over a five-yearfive-year period from the date of grant and have a contractual term of ten years. The fair value of each option grant under the Plan wasis estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes Option Pricing Model, which utilizes assumptions related to volatility, the risk-free interest rate, the dividend yield and employee exercise behavior. No options were granted in the years ended August

64 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 or 2008.

.

A summary of the Company’s stock option activity and related information is as follows:

   

Options

(in thousands)

  Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
   Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term (in years)
   Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
(in thousands)(1)
 

Outstanding as of August 31, 2007

   535   $24.84     7.3    $17,958  
          

Exercises

   (26 $20.04      

Forfeitures/Cancellations

   (3  34.46      
          

Outstanding as of August 31, 2008

   506   $25.03     6.3    $21,931  
          

Exercises

   (120 $14.01      

Forfeitures/Cancellations

   (9  34.53      
          

Outstanding as of August 31, 2009

   377   $28.32     5.6    $9,683  
          

Exercises

   (36 $26.08      

Forfeitures/Cancellations

   (3  34.46      
          

Outstanding as of August 31, 2010

   338   $28.51     4.8    $5,324  
          

Vested and expected to vest as of August 31, 2010

   338   $28.51     4.8    $5,324  

Options exercisable as of:

       

August 31, 2008

   365   $22.83     6.0    $16,658  

August 31, 2009

   323   $27.94     5.5    $8,431  

August 31, 2010

   334   $28.44     4.7    $5,285  

 
Options
(in thousands)
 
Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
 
Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term (in years)
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
(in thousands)(1)
Outstanding as of August 31, 2008506
 $25.03
 6.3
 $21,931
Exercises(120) $14.01
    
Forfeitures/Cancellations(9) 34.53
    
Outstanding as of August 31, 2009377
 $28.32
 5.6
 $9,683
Exercises(36) $26.08
    
Forfeitures/Cancellations(3) 34.46
    
Outstanding as of August 31, 2010338
 $28.51
 4.8
 $5,324
Exercises(19) $28.70
    
Outstanding and exercisable as of August 31, 2011319
 $28.50
 3.9
 $5,430
_____________________________
(1)

Amounts represent the difference between the exercise price and the closing price of the Company’s stock on the last trading day of the corresponding fiscal year, multiplied by the number of in-the-money options.

As


All outstanding stock options were vested as of August 31, 2010, the total number of unvested stock options was 4,081 shares.2011. The aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercised, which was $1$1 million $4, $1 million and $2$4 million for the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008,2009, respectively, represents the difference between the exercise price and the value of the Company’s stock at the time of exercise. The total fair value of stock options vested, was $1 millioncompensation expense associated with stock options, the total proceeds received from option exercises and the tax benefits realized from options exercised were not material during each of the years ended

74  /  Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

August 31, 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008. The Company recognized compensation expense associated with stock options of less than $1 million, $1 million and $1 million for the years ended August 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. As of August 31, 2010, the total unrecognized compensation costs related to stock options amounted to less than $1 million. The Company expects to recognize these costs over the next year. Total proceeds received from option exercises for the years ended August 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 were $1 million, $2 million and $1 million, respectively. The tax benefits realized from options exercised amounted to less than $1 million, $1 million and less than $1 million for the years ended August 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

.

Note 17 – Income Taxes

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes was as follows for the years ended August 31 (in thousands):

   2010  2009  2008 

United States

  $117,104   $(50,634 $389,761  

Foreign

   8,229    3,570    7,460  
             
  $125,333   $(47,064 $397,221  
             

 

Income tax expense (benefit) consisted of the following for the years ended August 31 (in thousands):

 

  

   2010  2009  2008 

Current:

    

Federal

  $25,187   $(44,249 $128,082  

State

   1,801    (838  9,862  

Foreign

   2,320    (134  2,445  
             

Total current

   29,308    (45,221  140,389  
             

Deferred:

    

Federal

   10,466    25,536    2,998  

State

   812    (886  (819

Foreign

   239    656    0  
             

Total deferred

   11,517    25,306    2,179  
             

Total income tax expense (benefit)

  $40,825   $(19,915 $142,568  
             

 

A reconciliation of the difference between the federal statutory rate and the Company’s effective tax rate for the years ended August 31 is as follows:

 

   

   2010  2009  2008 

Federal statutory rate

   35.0  (35.0%)   35.0

State taxes, net of credits

   0.7    (8.7)      1.7  

Foreign income taxed at different rates

   (0.6)      (1.4)      0.0  

Section 199 deduction

   (2.4)      3.4    (1.9)   

Non-deductible officers’ compensation

   1.0    (2.2)      1.6  

Noncontrolling interests

   (1.1)      (0.6)      (0.5)   

Other

   0.0    2.2    0.0  
             

Effective tax rate

   32.6  (42.3%)   35.9
             

 2011 2010 2009
United States$171,329
 $117,104
 $(50,634)
Foreign9,476
 8,229
 3,570
Total$180,805
 $125,333
 $(47,064)
Income tax expense (benefit) from continuing operations consisted of the following for the years ended August 31 (in thousands):
 2011 2010 2009
Current:     
Federal$33,499
 $25,187
 $(44,249)
State2,583
 1,801
 (838)
Foreign82
 2,320
 (134)
Total current tax expense (benefit)36,164
 29,308
 (45,221)
Deferred:     
Federal19,164
 10,466
 25,536
State383
 812
 (886)
Foreign1,457
 239
 656
Total deferred tax expense21,004
 11,517
 25,306
Total income tax expense (benefit)$57,168
 $40,825
 $(19,915)



65 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  752011


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


A reconciliation of the difference between the federal statutory rate and the Company's effective tax rate for the years ended August 31 is as follows:
 2011 2010 2009
Federal statutory rate35.0 % 35.0 % (35.0)%
State taxes, net of credits0.7
 0.7
 (8.7)
Foreign income taxed at different rates(0.6) (0.6) (1.4)
Section 199 deduction(1.0) (2.4) 3.4
Non-deductible officers’ compensation0.3
 1.0
 (2.2)
Noncontrolling interests(1.0) (1.1) (0.6)
Research and development credits(0.5) 
 
Other(1.3) 
 2.2
Effective tax rate31.6 % 32.6 % (42.3)%

The effective tax rate differed from the U.S. federal statutory rate of

35.0%, primarily due to the lower tax rate for foreign income and domestic production activities deductions. The fiscal 2011 effective tax rate also benefited from certain adjustments recorded in the period, including a recognition of research and development credits and a reduction in a reserve for unrecognized state income tax benefits. In addition, during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011, the Company recorded an adjustment to correct an error that originated in a prior period pertaining to deferred tax liabilities related to the Company’s investment in a subsidiary. The correction of this error resulted in a reduction of income tax expense and an increase to net income of $3 million for the year ended August 31, 2011. Management determined that this error was not material to any previously reported consolidated financial statements and the resulting correction was not material to the Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended August 31, 2011.


Deferred tax assets and liabilities were comprised of the following as of August 31 (in thousands):

   2010  2009 

Deferred tax assets:

   

Environmental liabilities

  $9,341   $10,117  

Employee benefit accruals

   10,067    9,851  

State income tax and other

   3,297    9,771  

Net operating loss carryforwards

   1,107    6,866  

State credit carryforwards

   2,671    2,202  

Inventory valuation methods

   4,768    1,054  

Alternative minimum tax credit carryforwards

   742    742  

Valuation allowances

   (855  (455
         

Total deferred tax assets

   31,138    40,148  
         

Deferred tax liabilities:

   

Accelerated depreciation and basis differences

   77,457    71,200  

Prepaid expense acceleration

   2,064    2,444  

Translation adjustment

   1,210    1,000  
         

Total deferred tax liabilities

   80,731    74,644  
         

Net deferred tax liability

  $49,593   $34,496  
         

 2011 2010
Deferred tax assets:   
Environmental liabilities$9,727
 $9,341
Employee benefit accruals12,547
 10,067
State income tax and other2,948
 3,297
Net operating loss carryforwards988
 1,107
State credit carryforwards2,294
 2,671
Inventory valuation methods4,321
 4,768
Alternative minimum tax credit carryforwards
 742
Valuation allowances(589) (855)
Total deferred tax assets32,236
 31,138
Deferred tax liabilities:   
Accelerated depreciation and basis differences101,457
 77,457
Prepaid expense acceleration2,287
 2,064
Translation adjustment2,086
 1,210
Total deferred tax liabilities105,830
 80,731
Net deferred tax liability$73,594
 $49,593
Deferred taxes included the benefits from state net operating loss carry forwards of $1 million and state tax credits of $2 million that will expire if not used between 20112012 and 2029. A valuation allowance2029.

66 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes

As of August 31, 2010, the Company had a reserve of $2 million for unrecognized tax benefits, which included less than $1 million of interest and penalties.

The following table summarizes the activity related to the Company’s reserve for unrecognized tax benefits, excluding interest and penalties, for the years ended August 31 (in thousands):

   2010  2009  2008 

Unrecognized tax benefits, as of the beginning of the year

  $3,372   $5,761   $3,986  

Additions for tax positions of prior years

   0    201    0  

Reductions for tax positions of prior years

   (274  (645  (26

Settlements with tax authorities

   (315  (1,159  0  

Additions for tax positions of the current year

   0    657    1,801  

Reductions for lapse of statutes

   (1,152  (1,443  0  
             

Unrecognized tax benefits, as of the end of the year

  $1,631   $3,372   $5,761  
             

Recognition of the unrecognized tax benefits as of August 31, 2010 would reduce income tax expense by $2 million.

 2011 2010 2009
Unrecognized tax benefits, as of the beginning of the year$1,631
 $3,372
 $5,761
Additions for tax positions of prior years
 
 201
Reductions for tax positions of prior years(75) (274) (645)
Settlements with tax authorities(875) (315) (1,159)
Additions for tax positions of the current year160
 
 657
Reductions for lapse of statutes(538) (1,152) (1,443)
Unrecognized tax benefits, as of the end of the year$303
 $1,631
 $3,372
The Company does not anticipate any material changes to the reserve in the next 12 months.

The Company’s policy is to recordrecognized amounts of tax-related penalties and interest in income tax expense. The amounts recognized were less than $1 million in each of the years ended August 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008.

not material for all periods presented.

The Company files federal and state income tax returns in the USU.S. and foreign tax returns in Puerto Rico and Canada. The federal statute of limitations has expired for fiscal 20032007 and prior years, and the Company is no longer subject to

76  /  Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

state and foreign tax examinations for those years. Federal, Canadian and several state tax authorities are currently examining the Company’s income tax returns for fiscal years 2004 to 2008.

The Company currently pays a 7% tax rate on earnings in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. The Company is aware that regulatory agencies in Puerto Rico are reevaluatingbased on its qualification as a manufacturer. In 2010, a local regulatory agency issued a letter challenging the Company’s entitlement to athe manufacturing tax exemption. While the Company currently believes it will continue to be entitled to the 7% tax rate under existing exemptions, a change inexemption, which, if upheld, could have increased the Company’s tax exemption status could cause an increaserate in Puerto Rico. In September 2011, that agency withdrew its challenge, and the Company continues to benefit from the manufacturing tax rate on Puerto Rico earnings and in its overall effective tax rate on consolidated earnings. Based upon known facts a range of reasonably possible changes cannot currently be estimated.

exemption.

Note 18 – Net Income (Loss) Per Share

The following table sets forth the information used to compute basic and diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to SSI for the years ended August 31 (in thousands):

   2010  2009  2008 

Income (loss) from continuing operations

  $84,508   $(27,149 $254,653  

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

   (3,926  (866  (5,357
             

Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to SSI

   80,582    (28,015  249,296  

Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax

   (13,832  (4,214  (613
             

Net income (loss) attributable to SSI

  $66,750   $(32,229 $248,683  
             

Computation of shares:

    

Weighted average common shares outstanding, basic

   27,832    28,159    28,278  

Incremental common shares attributable to dilutive stock options, performance share awards, DSUs and RSUs

   315    0    616  
             

Weighted average common shares outstanding, diluted

   28,147    28,159    28,894  
             

Basic net income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the periods presented, including vested DSUs and RSUs. Diluted net income (loss) per share is computed by dividing net income (loss) by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding, assuming dilution. For the years ended August 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, 50,702, 828,869 and 74,593 common

 2011 2010 2009
Income (loss) from continuing operations$123,637
 $84,508
 $(27,149)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests(5,181) (3,926) (866)
Income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to SSI118,456
 80,582
 (28,015)
Loss from discontinued operations, net of tax(101) (13,832) (4,214)
Net income (loss) attributable to SSI$118,355
 $66,750
 $(32,229)
Computation of shares:     
Weighted average common shares outstanding, basic27,649
 27,832
 28,159
Incremental common shares attributable to dilutive stock options, performance share awards, DSUs and RSUs310
 315
 
Weighted average common shares outstanding, diluted27,959
 28,147
 28,159

Common stock equivalent shares respectively,of 39,820, 50,702 and 828,869 were considered anti-dilutiveantidilutive and were excluded from the calculation of diluted net income (loss) per share.

share for the years ended
August 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Note 19 – Related Party Transactions

The Company purchases recycled metal from its joint venture operations at prices that approximate fair market value. These purchases totaled $29$48 million $16, $29 million and $52$16 million for the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008,2009, respectively. Advances to (payments from) these joint ventures were $(2) million, less than $1$1 million $2 and $2 million and ($3) million for the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008,2009, respectively. The Company owed $1$2 million and $2$1 million to joint ventures as of August 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.
In November 2010, the Company and 2009, respectively.

a joint venture partner entered into a series of agreements to facilitate the expansion of their


67 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


joint venture operations in order to increase the flow of scrap into MRB yards. In order to fund this growth, the Company and its joint venture partner each contributed an additional $2 million in equity to the joint venture.
In connection with the acquisition of the metals recycling business assets of Amix Salvage & Sales Ltd. during fiscal 2011, the Company entered into a series of agreements to lease property or obtain services with entities owned by the minority shareholder of the Company’s subsidiary that operates its MRB facilities in British Columbia and Alberta, Canada. The Company paid $3 million under these agreements for the year ended August 31, 2011.
Thomas D. Klauer, Jr., President of the Company’s Auto Parts Business, is the sole shareholder of a corporation that is the 25% minority partner in a partnership in which the Company is the 75% partner and which operates four self-service stores in Northern California. Mr. Klauer’s 25% share of the profits of this partnership totaled $2$2 million $1, $2 million and $2$1 million in the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008,2009, respectively. The Company and a company owned by Mr. Klauer jointly own the real property at one of these stores, which is leased to the partnership. Mr. Klauer’s share of the annual rent paid by the partnership is less than $1 million.$1 million. The term of this lease expires in December 2015, and the partnership has the option to renew the lease, upon its expiration, for multiple five-year periods. Rent under the lease is adjusted annually based on the Consumer Price Index. Also in fiscal 2009, Mr. Klauer, through a company of which he is the sole shareholder, acquired ownership of a contiguous parcel of real property, a portion of which is leased to the partnership. The term of this lease expires in December 2015, and the partnership

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  77


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

has the option to renew the lease, upon its expiration, for multiple five-year periods. Rent under the lease is adjusted annually based on the Consumer Price Index. The rent paid by the partnership to Mr. Klauer’s company for this parcel was less than $1$1 million in the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009.2009. In addition, in July 2011, the Company leased a parcel of land in San Jose from a company of which Mr. Klauer is sole shareholder. The term of this lease expires on January 31, 2012, and the Company has the option to renew the lease for an additional six months. The rent paid to Mr. Klauer’s company in fiscal 2011 for this parcel was less than $1 million. In addition, during the year ended August 31, 2008, the Company loaned this partnership $5$5 million to fund the exercise of an option to purchase another property occupied by the partnership from an unrelated third party. The loan incurredaccrued interest at 5% per annum, and the partnership was prohibited from making distributions to its partners (other than for taxes on the income of the partnership) until the loan was repaid. The principal balance was repaid in the first quarter of fiscal 2010, compared to a balance of $1 million as of August 31, 2009.

In February 2008, the Company acquired the remaining 50% equity interest in Pick-N-Pull Auto Dismantlers, LLC Nevada in exchange for its 50% interest in the land and buildings owned by the entity. The acquired business was previously consolidated into the Company’s financial statements because the Company maintained operating control over the entity. See Note 7 – Business Combinations for further detail.

2010.

Certain shareholders of the Company own significant interests in, or are related to owners of, the entities discussed below. As such, these entities are considered related parties for financial reporting purposes. All transactions with the Schnitzer family (including Schnitzer family companies) require the approval of the Company’s Audit Committee, and the Company is in compliance with this policy.

Schnitzer family employees are considered related parties for financial reporting purposes because members of the Schnitzer family own significant interests in the Company. Gary Schnitzer and Gregory Schnitzer, each a member of the Schnitzer family, are employed by the Company. Joshua Philip, also a member of the Schnitzer family, was employed by the Company until his resignation effective January 8, 2010. These members of the Schnitzer family collectively earned total compensation of $1 million, $1 million and $2 million for the years ended August 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

Members of the Schnitzer family own all of the outstanding stock of Schnitzer Investment Corp. (“SIC”), which is engaged in the real estate business and was a subsidiary of the Company prior to 1989. The Company and SIC are both potentially responsible parties with respect to Portland Harbor, which has been designated as a Superfund site since December 2000. The Company has incurred $6 million, net of insurance reimbursements, in legal and consulting fees related to the investigation of this site, which includes the Company’s Portland scrap metal operations. The Company and SIC have worked together in response to Portland Harbor matters, and the Company has paid all of the legal and consulting fees for the joint defense, in part due to its environmental indemnity obligation to SIC with respect to the Portland scrap metal operations property. As these costs have increased substantially in the last two years, the Company and SIC have agreed to an equitable cost sharing arrangement with respect to defense costs under which SIC will pay 50% of the legal and consulting costs, net of insurance recoveries. The Company has recognized $3$1 million and $3 million in reimbursement of environmental expenses in the year ended August 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, for SIC’s share of costs incurred to date.costs. Amounts receivable from SIC under this agreement were $1less than $1 million and $1 million as of August 31, 2010.

2011 and 2010, respectively.

The Company’s Restated Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws obligate it to indemnify current or former directors and officers to the fullest extent not prohibited by law, and further obligates it to advance expenses incurred in defending any pending or threatened proceeding to any such person in advance of a final disposition of such matters, but only if the involved officer or director affirms a good faith belief of entitlement to indemnification and undertakes to repay such expenses if it is ultimately determined by a court that the person is not entitled to be indemnified. In connection with the continuing investigation of certain former employees related to the Company’s past practice of making improper payments to purchasing managers of customers in Asia, Robert W. Philip, former Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Company, and Gary Schnitzer, Executive Vice President of the Company, have requested advancement of expenses and have provided the required undertaking. During each of the years ended August 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, theThe Company advanced $1$1 million to Mr. Philip for legal expenses in connection with the investigation.investigation during fiscal 2010 and 2009. During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2010, the Company was reimbursed by its D&O insurance carrier for approximately $3$3 million of the amounts advanced.

advanced to former officers and directors.

78  /  Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

William Furman, a director of the Company, is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of The Greenbrier Companies (with its subsidiaries, “Greenbrier”). During the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008,2009, the Company engaged in a series of transactions with Greenbrier in which the Company sold as well as purchased goods.goods on an arm’s length’s basis. During the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008,2009, the Company sold goods to Greenbrier in the amount of $1 million, less than $1$1 million, $1 million and $1less than $1 million, respectively. Purchases of goods from Greenbrier were less than $1$1 million during each of the years ended August 31, 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008.

2009.

68 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


Note 20 – Segment Information

The accounting standards for reporting information about operating segments define operating segments as components of an enterprise about which separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision maker in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance. The Company’s chief operating decision maker is the Chief Executive Officer. The Company is organized by line of business. While the Chief Executive Officer evaluates results in a number of different ways, the line of business management structure is the primary basis for which the allocation of resources and financial results are assessed. Under the aforementioned criteria, the Company operates in three operating and reporting segments: metal purchasing, processing, recycling and selling (MRB), used auto parts (APB) and mini-mill steel manufacturing (SMB). Additionally, the Company is a noncontrolling partner in joint ventures, which are either in the metals recycling business or are suppliers of unprocessed metal. The Company’s reporting segments are based on the nature of the business activities (nature of different products and production processes) from which it earns revenues and incurs expenses, financial information reviewed by the chief operating decision-maker, capital allocation and performance assessment process, organizational structure and financial information presented to the Board of Directors and investors.

MRB buys and processes ferrous and nonferrous metal for sale to foreign and other domestic steel producers or their representatives and to SMB. MRB also purchases ferrous metal from other processors for shipment directly to SMB.

APB purchases used and salvaged vehicles, sells parts from those vehicles through its retail facilities and wholesale operations, and sells the remaining portion of the vehicles to metal recyclers, including MRB.

SMB operates a steel mini-mill that produces a wide range of finished steel products using recycled metal and other raw materials.

Intersegment sales from MRB to SMB are made at rates that approximate export market prices for shipments from the West Coast of the US. In addition, the Company has intersegment sales of autobodies from APB to MRB at rates that approximate market prices. These intercompany sales tend to produce intercompany profits which are not recognized until the finished products are ultimately sold to third parties.

The information provided below is obtained from internal information that is provided to the Company’s chief operating decision-maker for the purpose of corporate management. The Company uses operating income (loss) to measure segment performance. The Company does not allocate corporate interest income and expense, income taxes, other income and expenses related to corporate activity or corporate expense for management and administrative services that benefit all three segments. Because of this unallocated expense, the operating income (loss) of each reporting segment does not reflect the operating income (loss) the reporting segment would have as a stand-alone business. All amounts presented exclude the results of operations of the Company’s discontinued full-service used auto parts operation.

The following is a summary of the Company’s total assets as of August 31 (in thousands):

   2010  2009 

Total assets:

   

Metals Recycling Business(1)

  $1,405,765   $1,266,222  

Auto Parts Business

   243,976    272,983  

Steel Manufacturing Business

   322,601    331,811  
         

Total segment assets

   1,972,342    1,871,016  

Corporate and eliminations

   (628,924  (602,783
         

Total assets

  $1,343,418   $1,268,233  
         

Property, plant and equipment, net

  $460,810   $447,228  
         

 2011 2010
Total assets:   
Metals Recycling Business(1)
$1,668,778
 $1,405,765
Auto Parts Business304,060
 243,976
Steel Manufacturing Business324,596
 322,601
Total segment assets2,297,434
 1,972,342
Corporate and eliminations(407,265) (628,924)
Total assets$1,890,169
 $1,343,418
Property, plant and equipment, net (2)
$555,284
 $460,810
_____________________________
(1)

MRB total assets include $14$17 million and $11$14 million as of August 31, 20102011 and 2009,2010, respectively, for investments in joint venture partnerships.

(2)
Property, plant and equipment, net includes $49 million and $3 million as of August 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, at our Canadian locations.




69 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  792011


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Long-lived assets consist primarily of net property, plant and equipment. Substantially all of the Company’s long-lived assets are located in the US.



The table below illustrates the Company’s operating results from continuing operations by reporting segment for the years ended August 31 (in thousands):

   2010  2009  2008 

Revenues:

    

Metals Recycling Business

  $1,979,770   $1,507,655   $3,062,850  

Auto Parts Business

   241,233    153,207    228,082  

Steel Manufacturing Business

   285,085    263,269    603,189  
             

Segment revenue

   2,506,088    1,924,131    3,894,121  

Intersegment eliminations

   (204,848  (136,901  (377,171
             

Total revenues

  $2,301,240   $1,787,230   $3,516,950  
             

Depreciation and amortization:

    

Metals Recycling Business

  $38,516   $35,649   $30,329  

Auto Parts Business

   7,568    6,627    5,436  

Steel Manufacturing Business

   12,879    12,097    11,093  
             

Segment depreciation and amortization

   58,963    54,373    46,858  

Corporate

   4,265    4,027    2,284  
             

Total depreciation and amortization

  $63,228   $58,400   $49,142  
             

Capital expenditures:

    

Metals Recycling Business

  $53,753   $40,875   $46,246  

Auto Parts Business

   4,682    9,574    12,676  

Steel Manufacturing Business

   3,255    6,205    13,710  
             

Segment capital expenditures

   61,690    56,654    72,632  

Corporate

   2,634    2,390    11,630  
             

Total capital expenditures

  $64,324   $59,044   $84,262  
             

Reconciliation of the Company’s segment operating income (loss) to income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes:

    

Metals Recycling Business(1)(2)

  $118,449   $12,552   $356,873  

Auto Parts Business

   51,096    3,564    47,686  

Steel Manufacturing Business

   (5,862  (42,000  72,300  
             

Segment operating income (loss)

   163,683    (25,884  476,859  

Corporate and eliminations

   (37,786  (25,240  (73,624
             

Operating income (loss)

   125,897    (51,124  403,235  

Interest income

   459    1,179    748  

Interest expense

   (2,343  (3,342  (8,649

Other income

   1,320    6,223    1,887  
             

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes

  $125,333   $(47,064 $397,221  
             

 2011 2010 2009
Metals Recycling Business:     
Revenues$3,070,004
 $1,979,770
 $1,507,655
Less: Intersegment revenues(169,331) (155,310) (109,985)
MRB external customer revenues2,900,673
 1,824,460
 1,397,670
Auto Parts Business:     
Revenues319,833
 241,233
 153,207
Less: Intersegment revenues(78,795) (49,538) (26,916)
APB external customer revenues241,038
 191,695
 126,291
Steel Manufacturing Business:     
Revenues317,483
 285,085
 263,269
Total revenues$3,459,194
 $2,301,240
 $1,787,230
Depreciation and amortization:     
Metals Recycling Business$49,773
 $38,516
 $35,649
Auto Parts Business10,131
 7,568
 6,627
Steel Manufacturing Business10,782
 12,879
 12,097
Segment depreciation and amortization70,686
 58,963
 54,373
Corporate4,180
 4,265
 4,027
Total depreciation and amortization$74,866
 $63,228
 $58,400
Capital expenditures:     
Metals Recycling Business$88,917
 $53,753
 $40,875
Auto Parts Business7,099
 4,682
 9,574
Steel Manufacturing Business3,328
 3,255
 6,205
Segment capital expenditures99,344
 61,690
 56,654
Corporate5,620
 2,634
 2,390
Total capital expenditures$104,964
 $64,324
 $59,044
Reconciliation of the Company’s segment operating income (loss) to income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes:     
Metals Recycling Business(1)(2)
$164,646
 $118,449
 $12,552
Auto Parts Business64,027
 51,096
 3,564
Steel Manufacturing Business2,562
 (5,862) (42,000)
Segment operating income (loss)231,235
 163,683
 (25,884)
Corporate and eliminations(45,271) (37,786) (25,240)
Operating income (loss)185,964
 125,897
 (51,124)
Interest income384
 459
 1,179
Interest expense(8,436) (2,343) (3,342)
Other income, net2,893
 1,320
 6,223
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes$180,805
 $125,333
 $(47,064)
_____________________________
(1)

MRB operating income for fiscal 2009 includes bad debt expense of $8 million.

$8 million.
(2)

MRB operating income includes $3$5 million $1, $3 million and $12$1 million in income from joint ventures accounted for by the equity method in fiscal 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008,2009, respectively.



8070 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 20102011


SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS



The following revenues from external customers are presented based on the sales destination by reporting segment and by major product for the years ended August 31 (in thousands):

   2010   2009   2008 

Revenues based on sales destination:

      

Foreign

  $1,570,936    $1,252,782    $2,276,848  

Domestic

   730,304     534,448     1,240,102  
               

Total revenues from external customers

  $2,301,240    $1,787,230    $3,516,950  
               

Reporting segment:

      

Metals Recycling Business

  $1,824,460    $1,397,670    $2,734,438  

Auto Parts Business

   191,695     126,291     179,323  

Steel Manufacturing Business

   285,085     263,269     603,189  
               

Total revenues from external customers

  $2,301,240    $1,787,230    $3,516,950  
               

Major product information:

      

Ferrous scrap metal

  $1,403,354    $1,139,323    $2,262,384  

Nonferrous scrap metal

   421,106     258,347     472,054  

Auto parts

   191,695     126,291     179,323  

Finished steel products

   270,712     245,175     586,246  

Semi-finished steel products

   14,373     18,094     16,943  
               

Total revenues from external customers

  $2,301,240    $1,787,230    $3,516,950  
               

 2011 2010 2009
Revenues based on sales destination:     
Foreign$2,471,737
 $1,570,936
 $1,252,782
Domestic987,457
 730,304
 534,448
Total revenues from external customers$3,459,194
 $2,301,240
 $1,787,230
      
Major product information:     
Ferrous scrap metal$2,259,229
 $1,403,354
 $1,139,323
Nonferrous scrap metal and other641,444
 421,106
 258,347
Auto parts241,038
 191,695
 126,291
Finished steel products317,338
 270,712
 245,175
Semi-finished steel products145
 14,373
 18,094
Total revenues from external customers$3,459,194
 $2,301,240
 $1,787,230

In fiscal 2011, 2010 2009 and 20082009, there were no external customers that accounted for more than 10% of the Company’s consolidated revenues. Sales to customers in foreign countries are a significant part of the Company’s business. The schedule below identifies those foreign countries in which the Company’s sales exceeded 10% of consolidated revenues in any of the last three years ended August 31:

   2010   % of
Revenue
  2009   % of
Revenue
  2008   % of
Revenue
 

China

  $487,098     21.2 $570,400     31.9 $236,589     6.7

South Korea

  $260,456     11.3 $83,821     4.7 $288,461     8.2

31 (in thousands):

 2011 
% of
Revenue
 2010 
% of
Revenue
 2009 
% of
Revenue
China$884,744
 25.6% $487,098
 21.2% $570,400
 31.9%
South Korea$310,977
 9.0% $260,456
 11.3% $83,821
 4.7%

71 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  812011



Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)

In the opinion of management, this unaudited quarterly financial summary includes all adjustments necessary to present fairly the results for the periods represented (in thousands, except per share amounts):

   Fiscal 2010 
   First  Second  Third  Fourth 

Revenues

  $394,282   $564,328   $703,539   $639,091  

Operating income

  $9,282   $28,537   $63,775   $24,303  

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

  $(14,974 $(72 $23   $1,191  

Net income (loss) attributable to SSI

  $(8,569 $17,459   $40,453   $17,407  

Basic net income (loss) per share attributable to SSI

  $(0.31 $0.63   $1.45   $0.63  

Diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to SSI

  $(0.30 $0.62   $1.43   $0.62  
   Fiscal 2009 
   First  Second  Third  Fourth 

Revenues

  $471,964   $406,679   $382,029   $526,558  

Operating income (loss)

  $(48,205 $(14,483 $(4,242 $15,806  

Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax

  $(1,430 $(1,997 $(1,058 $271  

Net income (loss) attributable to SSI

  $(34,002 $(6,965 $(1,527 $10,265  

Basic net income (loss) per share attributable to SSI

  $(1.21 $(0.25 $(0.05 $0.37  

Diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to SSI

  $(1.21 $(0.25 $(0.05 $0.36  

 Fiscal 2011
 First Second Third Fourth
Revenues$675,104
 $721,842
 $981,062
 $1,081,186
Operating income$28,440
 $45,937
 $55,332
 $56,255
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax$23
 $11
 $282
 $(417)
Net income attributable to SSI$17,794
 $30,825
 $33,028
 $36,708
Basic net income per share attributable to SSI$0.65
 $1.12
 $1.19
 $1.32
Diluted net income per share attributable to SSI$0.64
 $1.10
 $1.18
 $1.31
 Fiscal 2010
 First Second Third Fourth
Revenues$394,282
 $564,328
 $703,539
 $639,091
Operating income$9,282
 $28,537
 $63,775
 $24,303
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax$(14,974) $(72) $23
 $1,191
Net income (loss) attributable to SSI$(8,569) $17,459
 $40,453
 $17,407
Basic net income (loss) per share attributable to SSI$(0.31) $0.63
 $1.45
 $0.63
Diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to SSI$(0.30) $0.62
 $1.43
 $0.62

82During the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011, the Company recorded an adjustment to correct an error that originated in a prior period pertaining to deferred tax liabilities related to the Company’s investment in a subsidiary. The correction of this error resulted in a reduction of income tax expense and an increase to net income of $3 million for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2011.


72 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 20102011



Schedule II – Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

For the Years Ended August 31, 2011, 2010 2009 and 2008

2009

(In thousands)

Column A  Column B   Column C  Column D  Column E 
Description  Balance at
beginning
of period
   Charges to cost
and expenses
  Deductions  Balance at
end of
period
 

Fiscal 2010

      

Allowance for doubtful accounts

  $7,509    $(255 $(1,045 $6,209  

Inventory reserves

  $1,269    $153   $(323 $1,099  

Deferred tax valuation allowance

  $455    $400   $0   $855  

Fiscal 2009

      

Allowance for doubtful accounts

  $3,049    $8,916   $(4,456 $7,509  

Inventory reserves

  $1,125    $144   $0   $1,269  

Deferred tax valuation allowance

  $520    $0   $(65 $455  

Fiscal 2008

      

Allowance for doubtful accounts

  $1,821    $4,445   $(3,217 $3,049  

Inventory reserves

  $1,866    $(741 $0   $1,125  

Deferred tax valuation allowance

  $0    $520   $0   $520  


Column A Column B Column C Column D Column E
Description 
Balance at
beginning
of period
 
Charges to cost
and expenses
 Deductions 
Balance at
end of
period
Fiscal 2011        
Allowance for doubtful accounts $6,209
 $334
 $(395) $6,148
Inventory reserves $1,099
 $395
 $
 $1,494
Deferred tax valuation allowance $855
 $189
 $(455) $589
Fiscal 2010        
Allowance for doubtful accounts $7,509
 $(255) $(1,045) $6,209
Inventory reserves $1,269
 $153
 $(323) $1,099
Deferred tax valuation allowance $455
 $400
 $
 $855
Fiscal 2009        
Allowance for doubtful accounts $3,049
 $8,916
 $(4,456) $7,509
Inventory reserves $1,125
 $144
 $
 $1,269
Deferred tax valuation allowance $520
 $
 $(65) $455


73 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  832011



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

None.


ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

The Company’s management, with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has completed an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’sCompany maintains disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)). Based on this evaluation, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that as of August 31, 2010, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effectiveare designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified by the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures.

Any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can only provide reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives. The Company’s management, with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has completed an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures. Based on this evaluation, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of August 31, 2011, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective at the reasonable assurance level.

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting is presented within Part II, Item 8 of this report.

report and is incorporated herein by reference.

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There has beenwas no change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as that term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during its most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer Certifications

The certifications of the Company’s Chief Executive Office and Chief Financial Officer required under Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act have been filed with as Exhibits 31.1 and 31.2 to this report.

ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
None.


74

None.

84 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 20102011



PART III

ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Information required by Item 401 of Regulation S-K regarding directors, and information required by Items 405, 407(c)(3), 407(d)(4) and 407(d)(5) of Regulation S-K, will be included under “Election of Directors,” “Corporate Governance” and “Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance” in the Company’s Proxy Statement for its 20112012 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated herein by reference.

Executive Officers of the Registrant

Name Age Office

Tamara L. Lundgren

 5453
 President and Chief Executive Officer

Richard D. Peach

 4847
 Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Gary A. Schnitzer

 6968
 Executive Vice President

Donald W. Hamaker

 5958
 Senior Vice President and President, Metals Recycling Business

Thomas D. Klauer, Jr.

 5756
 Senior Vice President and President, Auto Parts Business

Jeffrey Dyck

 4847
 Senior Vice President and President, Steel Manufacturing Business

Richard C. Josephson

 6362
 Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary

George P. Nutwell

 6463
 Senior Vice President and Chief of Operations – Capital and Interdivisional Programs

Jeff P. Poeschl

 4645
 Vice President, Corporate Controller and Principal Accounting Officer


Tamara L. Lundgren joined us in September 2005 as Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer. She became Executive Vice President, Strategy and Investments in April 2006 and was elected Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer in November 2006. In December 2008, Ms. Lundgren became the President and Chief Executive Officer. Prior to joining us, Ms. Lundgren was a Managing Director in the Investment Banking Division of JPMorgan Chase, which she joined in 2001. From 1996 until 2001, Ms. Lundgren was a Managing Director at Deutsche Bank AG in New York and London. Prior to joining Deutsche Bank, Ms. Lundgren was a partner at the law firm of Hogan & Hartson, LLP in Washington, D.C.

Richard D. Peach joined us in March 2007 and was appointed Chief Financial Officer in December 2007. Mr. Peach was the Chief Financial Officer and Senior Vice President with the Western US energy utility, PacifiCorp, from 2003 to 2006. From 1995 to 2002, he served in a variety of senior management positions with ScottishPower, the international energy company, including Group Controller, Managing Director of United Kingdom Customer Services and Director of Energy Supply Finance. Prior to joining ScottishPower, Mr. Peach was a senior manager with Coopers & Lybrand andLybrand. Mr. Peach is a member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland.

Gary A. Schnitzer is Executive Vice President and was in charge of our California metals recycling operations from 1980 until 2007. Mr. Schnitzer currently serves on our Executive Committee and assists in developing the strategic direction of our Metals Recycling Business and Auto Parts Business. Mr. Schnitzer is a brother-in-law of Kenneth Novack and a first cousin of Jill Schnitzer Edelson and Jean S. Reynolds. Ms. Edelson,Scott Lewis is the son of a first cousin of Mr. Novack’s wife. Mr. Novack, and Ms. Reynolds and Mr. Lewis are all directors of the Company and members of the Schnitzer family.

Donald W. Hamaker joined us as President of the Metals Recycling Business in September 2005. Mr. Hamaker was employed in management positions by Hugo Neu Corporation for nearly 20 years, serving as President from 1999 to 2005.

Thomas D. Klauer, Jr. has been the President of the Auto Parts Business since our acquisition of Pick-N-Pull Auto Dismantling, Inc. in 2003. Before that Mr. Klauer was employed by Pick-N-Pull, having joined that Company in 1989.

Jeffrey Dyck joined the Steel Manufacturing Business in February 1994 and served in a variety of positions, including Manager of the Rolling Mills and Director of Operations of the Steel Manufacturing Business, before his promotion to President of SMB in June 2005.

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  85


Richard C. Josephson joined us in January 2006 as Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary. Before that Mr. Josephson was a Member of the law firm Stoel Rives LLP, where he had practiced law since 1973.

George P. Nutwelljoined us in October 2008 as Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer and was appointed Chief of Operations – Capital and Interdivisional Programs in March 2010. Before joining us, Mr. Nutwell was employed from April 1970 until April 2007 in a number of senior management positions by Bechtel Corporation, most recently as the Corporate Manager

75 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011


of Contracts and Procurement.

Jeff P. Poeschl joined us in February 2007 as Vice President and Corporate Controller. He became our Principal Accounting Officer in December 2007. Mr. Poeschl was the Vice President – Finance at Mesa Air Group, Inc., based in Phoenix, Arizona from 2000 to 2007. Prior to joining Mesa Air Group, Mr. Poeschl was a senior manager with Deloitte & Touche in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Mr. Poeschl is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and the Wisconsin Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

Code of Ethics

On April 28, 2010, the Board of Directors approved a revised Company’s Code of Conduct that is applicable to all of its directors and employees. It includes additional provisions that apply to the Company’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, and persons performing similar functions (the “Senior Financial Officers”). This document is posted on the Corporate Governance page of the Company’s internet website (www.schnitzersteel.com) and is available free of charge by calling the Company or submitting a request to ir@schn.com. The Company intends to disclose onsatisfy its websitedisclosure obligations with respect to any amendments to or waivers of the Code for directors, executive officers or Senior Financial Officers.

Officers by posting such information on its internet website set forth above rather than by filing a Form 8-K.

ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

The information required by Items 402, 407(e)(4) and 407(e)(5) of Regulation S-K will be included under “Compensation of Executive Officers,” “Compensation Discussion and Analysis”, “Director Compensation”, “Corporate Governance – Assessment of Compensation Risk” and “Compensation Committee Report” in the Company’s Proxy Statement to be filed for its 20112012 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated herein by reference.

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

Information with respect to security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management, as required by Item 403 of Regulation S-K, will be included under “Voting Securities and Principal Shareholders” in the Company’s Proxy Statement for its 20112012 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated herein by reference. Information with respect to securities authorized for issuance under equity compensation plans, as required by Item 201(d) of Regulation S-K, will be included under “Compensation Plan Information” in the Company’s Proxy Statement for its 20112012 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

The information required by Items 404 and 407(a) of Regulation S-K will be included under “Certain Transactions” and “Corporate Governance – Director Independence” in the Company’s Proxy Statement for its 20112012 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated herein by reference.

ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTINGACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

Information regarding the Company’s principal accountant fees and services required by Item 9(e) of Schedule 14A will be included under “Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” in the Company’s Proxy Statement for its 20112012 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and is incorporated herein by reference.


8676 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 20102011



PART IV


ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES

(a)

 

1.

1

 

The following financial statements are filed as part of this report:

 
 

The Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, the Company’s consolidated financial statements,Consolidated Financial Statements, the notesNotes thereto and the quarterly financial data (unaudited) are on pages 4440 through 8272 of this report.

 2

 

2.

The following financial statement schedule is filed as part of this report:

    

Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts is on page 8373 of this report.

 
 

All other schedules are omitted as the information is either not applicable or is not required.

3

 

    3.1

The following exhibits are filed as part of this report:
 

3.1
2006 Restated Articles of Incorporation of the Registrant. Filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on June 9, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference.

 

3.2


 

Restated Bylaws of the Registrant. Filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on October 30, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference.

 

    4.1

4.4
 

Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated November 8, 2005, between the Registrant, Bank of America, NA, and the Other Lenders Party Thereto. Filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference.

    4.2

Amendment to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of July 3, 2007, between the Company, Bank of America, NA, and Other Lenders Party Thereto. Filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 24, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference.

    4.3

Second Amendment to Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated as of June 10, 2008, between the Company, Bank of America, NA, and Other Lenders Party Thereto. Filed as Exhibit 4.3 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference.

    4.4

Rights Agreement, dated March 21, 2006, between the Registrant and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on March 22, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference.

 

    9.1

4.6
 

Second Amended and Restated Credit Agreement, dated February 9, 2011, between the Registrant, Bank of America, NA, and the Other Lenders Party Thereto. Filed as Exhibit 4.1 to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended May 31, 2011, and incorporated herein by reference.

9.1
Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. 2001 Restated Voting Trust and Buy-Sell Agreement, dated March 26, 2001. Filed as Exhibit 9.1 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2001, and incorporated herein by reference.

 

10.1


 

Lease Agreement, dated September 1, 1988, between Schnitzer Investment Corp. and the Registrant, as amended, relating to the Portland Metals Recycling operation and which has terminated except for surviving indemnity obligations. Filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form S-1 filed on September 24, 19961993 (Commission File No. 33-69352), and incorporated herein by reference.

 

10.2


 

Purchase and Sale Agreement, dated May 4, 2005, between Schnitzer Investment Corp. and the Registrant, relating to purchase by the Registrant of the Portland Metals Recycling operations real estate. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 10, 2005, and incorporated herein by reference.

 

10.3


 

Third Amended Shared Services Agreement, dated July 26, 2006, between the Registrant, Schnitzer Investment Corp. and Island Equipment Company, Inc. Filed as Exhibit 10.5 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 28, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference.



77 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  872011



10.4

  10.4

Lease Agreement, dated January 1, 2010, between Commercial One Properties, LLC and Pick-N-Pull San Jose Auto Dismantlers relating to the San Jose North Location. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended February 28, 2010, and incorporated herein by reference.

10.5

  10.5

Lease Agreement, dated January 1, 2010, between Commercial Court Properties, LLC, Pick-N-Pull Auto Dismantlers and Pick-N-Pull San Jose Auto Dismantlers relating to the San Jose North Location. Filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended February 28, 2010, and incorporated herein by reference.

*10.6

*10.6

Executive Annual Bonus Plan. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on February 1, 2010, and incorporated herein by reference.

*10.7

*10.7

Fiscal 2010 Annual Performance Bonus Program for John D. Carter and Tamara L. Lundgren. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 30, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference.

*10.8

*10.8

Annual Incentive Compensation Plan, effective September 1, 2006. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended February 28, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference.

*10.9

*10.9

1993 Stock Incentive Plan of the Registrant. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 30, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference.

*10.10

*10.10

Form of Stock Option Agreement used for option grants to employees under the 1993 Stock Incentive Plan. Filed as Exhibit 10.49 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference.

*10.11

*10.11

Form of Stock Option Agreement used for option grants to non-employee directors under the 1993 Stock Incentive Plan. Filed as Exhibit 10.15 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2004, and incorporated herein by reference.

*10.12

*10.12

Form of Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement under the 1993 Stock Incentive Plan. Filed as Exhibit 10.6 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 30, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference.

*10.13

*10.13

Form of Long-Term Incentive Award Agreement under the 1993 Stock Incentive Plan used for awards granted in fiscal 2008 and 2009. Filed as Exhibit 10.48 to the Registrant’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference.

*10.14

*10.14

Form of Long-Term Incentive Award Agreement under the 1993 Stock Incentive Plan used for awards granted in fiscal 2010. Filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 30, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference.

*10.15

*10.15

Form of Deferred Stock Unit Award Agreement under the 1993 Stock Incentive Plan used for non-employee directors. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 28, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference.

*10.16

*10.16

Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors. Filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 28, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference.

*10.17

*10.17

Amended and Restated Supplemental Executive Retirement Bonus Plan of the Registrant effective January 1, 2009. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended May 31, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference.

*10.18

*10.18

Form of Change in Control Severance Agreement between the Registrant and each executive officer other than John D. Carter and Tamara L. Lundgren. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on May 5, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference.


8878 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 20102011



*10.19

*10.19

Amended and Restated Employment Agreement by and between the Registrant and Tamara L. Lundgren dated October 29, 2008. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 4, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference.

*10.20

*10.20

Amended and Restated Change in Control Severance Agreement by and between the Registrant and Tamara L. Lundgren dated October 29, 2008. Filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 4, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference.

*10.21

*10.21

Amended and Restated Employment Agreement by and between the Registrant and John D. Carter dated October 29, 2008. Filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 4, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference.

*10.22

*10.22

Amended and Restated Change in Control Severance Agreement by and between the Registrant and John D. Carter dated October 29, 2008. Filed as Exhibit 10.4 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on November 4, 2008, and incorporated herein by reference.

*10.23

*10.23

Employment Agreement by and between the Registrant and Gary A. Schnitzer dated June 29, 2009. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 1, 2009, and incorporated herein by reference.

*10.24

*10.24

Form of Indemnity Agreement for Directors and Executive Officers. Filed as Exhibit 10.3 to the Registrant’s Current Report on Form 8-K filed on July 28, 2006, and incorporated herein by reference.

*10.25
Fiscal 2011 Annual Performance Bonus Program for John D. Carter and Tamara L. Lundgren. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 30, 2010 and incorporated herein by reference.
 

  21.1

*10.26

Amendment No. 1 dated June 29, 2011 to Amended and Restated Employment Agreement by and between the Registrant and Tamara L. Lundgren dated October 29, 2008. Filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended May 31, 2011 and incorporated herein by reference.
 

*10.27


Amended and Restated Employment Agreement by and between the Registrant and John D. Carter dated June 29, 2011. Filed as Exhibit 10.2 to the Registrant's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended May 31, 2011 and incorporated herein by reference.
21.1
Subsidiaries of Registrant.

23.1

  23.1

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.

24.1

  24.1

Powers of Attorney.

31.1

  31.1

Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

31.2

  31.2

Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.1

  32.1

Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.2

  32.2

Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

101
The following financial information from Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended August 31, 2011, formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language): (i) Consolidated Statements of Operations for the year ended August 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, (ii) Consolidated Balance Sheets as of August 31, 2011, and August 31, 2010, (iii) Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the year ended August 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, and (iv) the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.(1)

*Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
*Management

contract

(1)In accordance with Rule 406T of Regulation S-T, the information in these exhibits is furnished and deemed not filed or compensatory plana part of a registration statement or arrangement.


79 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 20102011


prospectus for purposes of Sections 11 or 12 of the Securities Act of 1933, is deemed not filed for purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act of 1934, and otherwise is not subject to liability under these sections and shall not be incorporated by reference into any registration statement or other document filed under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, except as expressly set forth by the specific reference in such filing.
The agreements and other documents filed as exhibits to this report are not intended to provide factual information or other disclosure other than with respect to the terms of the agreements or other documents themselves, and you should not rely on them for that purpose. In particular, any representations and warranties made by us in these agreements or other documents were made solely within the specific context of the relevant agreement or document and may not describe the actual state of affairs as of the date they were made or at any other time.



80 / 89

Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2011



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.

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

Dated: October 20, 2010

2011By: 

/s/ RICHARD D. PEACH

 Richard D. Peach
 

Richard D. Peach

Sr.Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

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:registrant on October 20, 20102011 in the capacities indicated.

Signature  

Title

Principal Executive Officer:

  

/s/ TAMARA L. LUNDGREN

  

President and Chief Executive Officer

Tamara L. Lundgren

  

Principal Financial Officer:

  

/s/ RICHARD D. PEACH

  

Sr.Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Richard D. Peach

 

Principal Accounting Officer:

  

/s/ JEFF P. POESCHL

  

Vice President, Corporate Controller and Principal Accounting Officer

Jeff P. Poeschl

 

Directors:

*DAVID J. ANDERSON

  

Director

  

David J. Anderson

  

*ROBERT S. BALL

  

Director

Robert S. Ball

  

*JOHN D. CARTER

  

Director

John D. Carter

  

*WILLIAM A. FURMAN

  

Director

William A. Furman

  

*JUDITH A. JOHANSEN

  

Director

Judith A. Johansen

  

*WAYLAND R. HICKS

  

Director

Wayland R. Hicks

  

*WILLIAM D. LARSSON

 

Director

William D. Larsson

*SCOTT LEWIS

Director

Scott Lewis


9081 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 20102011



Signature  

Title

*WILLIAM D. LARSSON

Director
William D. Larsson
*SCOTT LEWISDirector
Scott Lewis
*KENNETH M. NOVACK

  

Director

Kenneth M. Novack

  

*JEAN S. REYNOLDS

  

Director

Jean S. Reynolds

  

*JILL SCHNITZER EDELSON

 

Director



Jill Schnitzer Edelson

*RALPH R. SHAW

Director

Ralph R. Shaw

*By:

 

*By:/s/ RICHARD D. PEACH

  
  Attorney-in-fact, Richard D. Peach  



82 / Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. Form 10-K 2010  /  912011