UNITED STATES
 
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
 
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-Q 
 
(Mark One)
Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the quarterly period ended September 26, 2020April 3, 2021
or
Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
 
Commission File No. 1-9973
 
THE MIDDLEBY CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)  
Delaware36-3352497
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)(IRS Employer Identification Number)
 
 
1400 Toastmaster Drive,Elgin,Illinois60120
(Address of principal executive offices)(Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code:(847)741-3300
 
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 o   
 
Indicate by check mark whether the Registrantregistrant has submitted electronically every Interactive Data File required to be submitted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit such files).
Yes x   No o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, a smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “accelerated filer," "large accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company," and "emerging growth company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filerAccelerated filerNon-accelerated filer
Smaller reporting companyEmerging growth company
 
If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act. o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes ☐ No
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each ClassTrading Symbol(s)Name of Each Exchange on Which Registered
Common StockMIDDNasdaq Global Select Market
As of October 30, 2020,May 7, 2021, there were 55,612,25555,632,403 shares of the registrant's common stock outstanding.



THE MIDDLEBY CORPORATION
 
QUARTER ENDED SEPTEMBER 26, 2020APRIL 3, 2021
  
INDEX
DESCRIPTIONPAGE
PART I.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION 
  
Item 1. 
   
 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS as of SEPTEMBER 26, 2020APRIL 3, 2021 and DECEMBER 28, 2019JANUARY 2, 2021
  
 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME for the three and nine months ended SEPTEMBER 26,APRIL 3, 2021 and MARCH 28, 2020 and SEPTEMBER 28, 2019
  
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY for the three and nine months ended SEPTEMBER 26,APRIL 3, 2021 and MARCH 28, 2020 and SEPTEMBER 28, 2019
 CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS for the ninethree months ended SEPTEMBER 26,APRIL 3, 2021 and MARCH 28, 2020 and SEPTEMBER 28, 2019
 
  
Item 2.
  
Item 3.
  
Item 4.
  
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
  
Item 1.A1A.
Item 2.
  
Item 6.



PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

THE MIDDLEBY CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In Thousands, Except Share Data)
(Unaudited)
 
ASSETSASSETSSep 26, 2020Dec 28, 2019ASSETSApr 3, 2021Jan 2, 2021
Current assets:Current assets:  Current assets:  
Cash and cash equivalentsCash and cash equivalents$220,310 $94,500 Cash and cash equivalents$309,331 $268,103 
Accounts receivable, net of reserve for doubtful accounts of $20,237 and $14,886381,273 447,612 
Accounts receivable, net of reserve for doubtful accounts of $19,443 and $19,225Accounts receivable, net of reserve for doubtful accounts of $19,443 and $19,225427,935 363,361 
Inventories, netInventories, net557,512 585,699 Inventories, net574,277 540,198 
Prepaid expenses and otherPrepaid expenses and other67,261 61,224 Prepaid expenses and other73,933 81,049 
Prepaid taxesPrepaid taxes14,826 20,161 Prepaid taxes7,634 17,782 
Total current assetsTotal current assets1,241,182 1,209,196 Total current assets1,393,110 1,270,493 
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $223,844 and $197,629343,860 352,145 
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $237,875 and $229,871Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $237,875 and $229,871336,257 344,482 
GoodwillGoodwill1,855,361 1,849,747 Goodwill1,928,644 1,934,261 
Other intangibles, net of amortization of $385,737 and $333,5071,420,600 1,443,381 
Other intangibles, net of amortization of $422,169 and $403,347Other intangibles, net of amortization of $422,169 and $403,3471,428,294 1,450,381 
Long-term deferred tax assetsLong-term deferred tax assets35,115 36,932 Long-term deferred tax assets74,159 76,052 
Other assetsOther assets124,066 110,742 Other assets129,449 126,805 
Total assetsTotal assets$5,020,184 $5,002,143 Total assets$5,289,913 $5,202,474 
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITYLIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY  LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY  
Current liabilities:Current liabilities:  Current liabilities:  
Current maturities of long-term debtCurrent maturities of long-term debt$23,152 $2,894 Current maturities of long-term debt$21,093 $22,944 
Accounts payableAccounts payable152,262 173,693 Accounts payable213,431 182,773 
Accrued expensesAccrued expenses421,580 416,550 Accrued expenses479,913 494,541 
Total current liabilitiesTotal current liabilities596,994 593,137 Total current liabilities714,437 700,258 
Long-term debtLong-term debt1,808,973 1,870,246 Long-term debt1,801,040 1,706,652 
Long-term deferred tax liabilityLong-term deferred tax liability137,276 133,500 Long-term deferred tax liability126,068 147,224 
Accrued pension benefitsAccrued pension benefits252,420 289,086 Accrued pension benefits462,869 469,500 
Other non-current liabilitiesOther non-current liabilities193,199 169,360 Other non-current liabilities190,287 202,191 
Stockholders' equity:Stockholders' equity:  Stockholders' equity:  
Preferred stock, $0.01 par value; nonvoting; 2,000,000 shares authorized; NaN issuedPreferred stock, $0.01 par value; nonvoting; 2,000,000 shares authorized; NaN issuedPreferred stock, $0.01 par value; nonvoting; 2,000,000 shares authorized; NaN issued
Common stock, $0.01 par value; 63,558,226 and 63,129,775 shares issued in 2020 and 2019, respectively146 145 
Common stock, $0.01 par value; 63,651,773 and 63,651,773 shares issued in 2021 and 2020, respectivelyCommon stock, $0.01 par value; 63,651,773 and 63,651,773 shares issued in 2021 and 2020, respectively147 147 
Paid-in capitalPaid-in capital415,952 387,402 Paid-in capital361,487 433,308 
Treasury stock, at cost; 7,945,527 and 6,940,089 shares in 2020 and 2019(528,506)(451,262)
Treasury stock, at cost; 8,023,769 and 8,013,296 shares in 2021 and 2020Treasury stock, at cost; 8,023,769 and 8,013,296 shares in 2021 and 2020(538,896)(537,134)
Retained earningsRetained earnings2,516,919 2,361,462 Retained earnings2,663,074 2,568,756 
Accumulated other comprehensive lossAccumulated other comprehensive loss(373,189)(350,933)Accumulated other comprehensive loss(490,600)(488,428)
Total stockholders' equityTotal stockholders' equity2,031,322 1,946,814 Total stockholders' equity1,995,212 1,976,649 
Total liabilities and stockholders' equityTotal liabilities and stockholders' equity$5,020,184 $5,002,143 Total liabilities and stockholders' equity$5,289,913 $5,202,474 
 


See accompanying notes
1


THE MIDDLEBY CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(In Thousands, Except Per Share Data)
(Unaudited)
 
 
Three Months EndedNine Months Ended Three Months Ended
Sep 26, 2020Sep 28, 2019Sep 26, 2020Sep 28, 2019 Apr 3, 2021Mar 28, 2020
Net salesNet sales$634,525 $724,014 $1,783,961 $2,171,820 Net sales$758,058 $677,459 
Cost of salesCost of sales411,776 453,986 1,157,896 1,358,001 Cost of sales482,184 427,269 
Gross profitGross profit222,749 270,028 626,065 813,819 Gross profit275,874 250,190 
Selling, general and administrative expensesSelling, general and administrative expenses128,814 144,460 384,580 445,000 Selling, general and administrative expenses154,957 143,942 
Restructuring expensesRestructuring expenses7,263 4,223 10,281 6,806 Restructuring expenses794 834 
Gain on sale of plantGain on sale of plant(1,050)
Income from operationsIncome from operations86,672 121,345 231,204 362,013 Income from operations121,173 105,414 
Interest expense and deferred financing amortization, netInterest expense and deferred financing amortization, net18,418 20,846 55,881 63,334 Interest expense and deferred financing amortization, net16,067 15,713 
Net periodic pension benefit (other than service costs)Net periodic pension benefit (other than service costs)(10,149)(7,175)(30,004)(22,233)Net periodic pension benefit (other than service costs)(11,373)(10,089)
Other (income) expense, netOther (income) expense, net(294)1,444 3,414 (489)Other (income) expense, net(1,691)3,326 
Earnings before income taxesEarnings before income taxes78,697 106,230 201,913 321,401 Earnings before income taxes118,170 96,464 
Provision for income taxesProvision for income taxes18,181 24,210 46,456 78,158 Provision for income taxes28,907 22,685 
Net earningsNet earnings$60,516 $82,020 $155,457 $243,243 Net earnings$89,263 $73,779 
Net earnings per share:Net earnings per share:  Net earnings per share:
BasicBasic$1.10 $1.47 $2.82 $4.37 Basic$1.62 $1.33 
DilutedDiluted$1.10 $1.47 $2.82 $4.37 Diluted$1.59 $1.33 
Weighted average number of sharesWeighted average number of shares  Weighted average number of shares
BasicBasic54,982 55,663 55,104 55,641 Basic55,213 55,396 
Dilutive common stock equivalentsDilutive common stock equivalents118 48 Dilutive common stock equivalents753 
DilutedDiluted55,100 55,663 55,152 55,641 Diluted55,966 55,398 
Comprehensive incomeComprehensive income$82,887 $55,915 $133,201 $191,876 Comprehensive income$87,091 $14,452 
 



















See accompanying notes
2


THE MIDDLEBY CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
(amounts in thousands)
(Unaudited)
Common
Stock
Paid-in
Capital
Treasury
Stock
Retained
Earnings
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income/(loss)
Total
Stockholders'
Equity
Balance, June 27, 2020$145 $406,640 $(528,111)$2,456,403 $(395,560)$1,939,517 
Net earnings60,516 60,516 
Currency translation adjustments25,851 25,851 
Change in unrecognized pension benefit costs, net of tax of $(1,283)(6,133)(6,133)
Unrealized gain on interest rate swap, net of tax of $9602,653 2,653 
Stock compensation5,300 5,300 
Stock issuance3,705 3,706 
Purchase of treasury stock(395)(395)
Equity component of issuance of convertible notes307 307 
Balance, September 26, 2020$146 $415,952 $(528,506)$2,516,919 $(373,189)$2,031,322 
Balance, December 28, 2019$145 $387,402 $(451,262)$2,361,462 $(350,933)$1,946,814 
Net earnings155,457 155,457 
Currency translation adjustments(3,213)(3,213)
Change in unrecognized pension benefit costs, net of tax of $1,3086,184 6,184 
Unrealized (loss) on interest rate swap, net of tax of $(9,303)(25,227)(25,227)
Stock compensation14,422 14,422 
Stock issuance13,821 13,822 
Purchase of treasury stock(77,244)(77,244)
Equity component of issuance of convertible notes307 307 
Balance, September 26, 2020$146 $415,952 $(528,506)$2,516,919 $(373,189)$2,031,322 
Common
Stock
Paid-in
Capital
Treasury
Stock
Retained
Earnings
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income/(loss)
Total
Stockholders'
Equity
Balance, January 2, 2021$147 $433,308 $(537,134)$2,568,756 $(488,428)$1,976,649 
Net earnings89,263 89,263 
Adoption of ASU 2020-06 (1)
(79,430)5,055 (74,375)
Currency translation adjustments(10,614)(10,614)
Change in unrecognized pension benefit costs, net of tax of $(877)(3,970)(3,970)
Unrealized gain on interest rate swap, net of tax of $4,32712,412 12,412 
Stock compensation7,609 7,609 
Purchase of treasury stock(1,762)(1,762)
Balance, April 3, 2021$147 $361,487 $(538,896)$2,663,074 $(490,600)$1,995,212 


(1) As of January 3, 2021 the company adopted ASU No. 2020-06, A
ccounting for Convertible Instruments and Contracts in an Entity’s Own Equity using the modified retrospective method. The adoption of this guidance resulted in a $79.4 million reduction to paid-in capital, net of tax of $25.5 million, and the recognition of $5.1 million as an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings, net of tax of $1.6 million.

Common
Stock
Paid-in
Capital
Treasury
Stock
Retained
Earnings
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income/(loss)
Total
Stockholders'
Equity
Balance, December 28, 2019$145 $387,402 $(451,262)$2,361,462 $(350,933)$1,946,814 
Net earnings73,779 73,779 
Currency translation adjustments(48,916)(48,916)
Change in unrecognized pension benefit costs, net of tax of $3,12314,808 14,808 
Unrealized (loss) on interest rate swap, net of tax of $(9,299)(25,219)(25,219)
Stock compensation4,159 4,159 
Stock issuance3,881 3,881 
Purchase of treasury stock(74,600)(74,600)
Balance, March 28, 2020$145 $395,442 $(525,862)$2,435,241 $(410,260)$1,894,706 




















See accompanying notes
3


THE MIDDLEBY CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
(amounts in thousands)
(Unaudited)
Common
Stock
Paid-in
Capital
Treasury
Stock
Retained
Earnings
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income/(loss)
Total
Stockholders'
Equity
Balance, June 29, 2019$145 $380,603 $(451,204)$2,170,445 $(301,738)$1,798,251 
Net earnings82,020 82,020 
Currency translation adjustments(25,428)(25,428)
Change in unrecognized pension benefit costs, net of tax of $1,0264,975 4,975 
Unrealized (loss) on interest rate swap, net of tax of $(1,867)(5,652)(5,652)
Stock compensation1,923 1,923 
Purchase of treasury stock(58)(58)
Balance, September 28, 2019$145 $382,526 $(451,262)$2,252,465 $(327,843)$1,856,031 
Balance, December 29, 2018$145 $377,419 $(445,118)$2,009,233 $(276,476)$1,665,203 
Net earnings243,243 243,243 
Adoption of ASU 2017-12 (1)(11)11 
Currency translation adjustments(27,190)(27,190)
Change in unrecognized pension benefit costs, net of tax of $9554,966 4,966 
Unrealized (loss) on interest rate swap, net of tax of $(9,890)(29,154)(29,154)
Stock compensation3,257 3,257 
Stock issuance1,850 1,850 
Purchase of treasury stock(6,144)(6,144)
Balance, September 28, 2019$145 $382,526 $(451,262)$2,252,465 $(327,843)$1,856,031 

    (1) As of December 30, 2018, the company adopted ASU No. 2017-12, "Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities" using the modified retrospective method. The adoption of this guidance resulted in the recognition of less than $0.1 million as an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings.

















See accompanying notes
4


THE MIDDLEBY CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In Thousands)
(Unaudited)
Nine Months Ended Three Months Ended
Sep 26, 2020Sep 28, 2019 Apr 3, 2021Mar 28, 2020
Cash flows from operating activities--Cash flows from operating activities--  Cash flows from operating activities--  
Net earningsNet earnings$155,457 $243,243 Net earnings$89,263 $73,779 
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities--Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities--  Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to net cash provided by operating activities--  
Depreciation and amortizationDepreciation and amortization81,594 77,272 Depreciation and amortization30,432 26,599 
Amortization of discount and issuance costs on convertible notes2,130 
Non-cash share-based compensationNon-cash share-based compensation14,422 3,257 Non-cash share-based compensation7,609 4,159 
Deferred income taxesDeferred income taxes11,696 9,931 Deferred income taxes1,913 8,672 
Net periodic pension benefit (other than service costs)Net periodic pension benefit (other than service costs)(30,004)(22,233)Net periodic pension benefit (other than service costs)(11,373)(10,089)
Gain on sale of plantGain on sale of plant(1,050)
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitionsChanges in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions  Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions  
Accounts receivable, netAccounts receivable, net69,176 (1,116)Accounts receivable, net(66,666)33,408 
Inventories, netInventories, net43,188 (65,864)Inventories, net(33,266)(28,094)
Prepaid expenses and other assetsPrepaid expenses and other assets16,576 1,903 Prepaid expenses and other assets27,407 9,566 
Accounts payableAccounts payable(28,171)(17,659)Accounts payable31,662 15,001 
Accrued expenses and other liabilitiesAccrued expenses and other liabilities(19,882)1,010 Accrued expenses and other liabilities(16,236)(45,864)
Net cash provided by operating activitiesNet cash provided by operating activities316,182 229,744 Net cash provided by operating activities59,695 87,137 
Cash flows from investing activities--Cash flows from investing activities--  Cash flows from investing activities--  
Net additions to property, plant and equipmentNet additions to property, plant and equipment(29,776)(33,819)Net additions to property, plant and equipment(8,725)(9,181)
Proceeds on sale of property, plant and equipmentProceeds on sale of property, plant and equipment9,381 Proceeds on sale of property, plant and equipment3,354 
Acquisitions, net of cash acquiredAcquisitions, net of cash acquired(33,144)(238,974)Acquisitions, net of cash acquired(1,667)(30,041)
Net cash used in investing activitiesNet cash used in investing activities(53,539)(272,793)Net cash used in investing activities(7,038)(39,222)
Cash flows from financing activities--Cash flows from financing activities--  Cash flows from financing activities--  
Proceeds under Credit FacilityProceeds under Credit Facility2,547,305 444,451 Proceeds under Credit Facility18,995 2,303,953 
Repayments under Credit FacilityRepayments under Credit Facility(3,217,507)(375,188)Repayments under Credit Facility(23,683)(1,977,453)
Proceeds from issuance of convertible notes, net of issuance costs729,933 
Premiums paid for capped call(104,650)
Net proceeds under international credit facilitiesNet proceeds under international credit facilities2,033 319 Net proceeds under international credit facilities(1,757)786 
Net repayments under other debt arrangementNet repayments under other debt arrangement(34)(175)Net repayments under other debt arrangement(78)(11)
Payments of deferred purchase price(3,700)(1,648)
Repurchase of treasury stockRepurchase of treasury stock(77,244)(6,144)Repurchase of treasury stock(1,762)(74,600)
Debt issuance costs on Credit FacilityDebt issuance costs on Credit Facility(10,974)Debt issuance costs on Credit Facility(7,577)
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activitiesNet cash (used in) provided by financing activities(134,838)61,615 Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities(8,285)245,098 
Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalentsEffect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents(1,995)(3,086)Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents(3,144)(6,470)
Changes in cash and cash equivalents--Changes in cash and cash equivalents--  Changes in cash and cash equivalents--  
Net increase in cash and cash equivalentsNet increase in cash and cash equivalents125,810 15,480 Net increase in cash and cash equivalents41,228 286,543 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of yearCash and cash equivalents at beginning of year94,500 71,701 Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year268,103 94,500 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of periodCash and cash equivalents at end of period$220,310 $87,181 Cash and cash equivalents at end of period$309,331 $381,043 
Non-cash investing and financing activities:
Stock issuance related to acquisition$3,706 $
 

See accompanying notes
54


THE MIDDLEBY CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SEPTEMBER 26, 2020APRIL 3, 2021
(Unaudited)
1)Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
a)Basis of Presentation
The condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared by The Middleby Corporation (the "company" or “Middleby”), pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"). The financial statements are unaudited and certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations, although the company believes that the disclosures are adequate to make the information not misleading. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and related notes contained in the company's 20192020 Form 10-K. The company’s interim results are not necessarily indicative of future full year results for the fiscal year 2020.2021. 
In the opinion of management, the financial statements contain all adjustments, which are normal and recurring in nature, necessary to present fairly the financial position of the company as of September 26, 2020April 3, 2021 and December 28, 2019,January 2, 2021, the results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 26,April 3, 2021 and March 28, 2020, and September 28, 2019, cash flows for the ninethree months ended September 26,April 3, 2021 and March 28, 2020 and September 28, 2019 and statement of stockholders' equity for the three and nine months ended September 26, 2020April 3, 2021 and SeptemberMarch 28, 2019.
Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to be consistent with current year presentation, including classifying the non-operating components of pension benefit as an individual adjustment within the operating activities on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows. Previously the amounts were reported as changes in accrued expenses and other liabilities.

2020.
Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires the company to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities at the date of the condensed consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses. Significant estimates and assumptions are used for, but are not limited to, allowances for doubtful accounts, reserves for excess and obsolete inventories, long-lived and intangible assets, warranty reserves, insurance reserves, income tax reserves, non-cash share-based compensation and post-retirement obligations. Actual results could differ from the company's estimates.
b)Non-Cash Share-Based Compensation
The company estimates the fair value of market-based stock awards and stock options at the time of grant and recognizes compensation cost over the vesting period of the awards and options. Non-cash share-based compensation expense was $5.3$7.6 million and $2.0$4.2 million for the three months period ended September 26,April 3, 2021 and March 28, 2020, and September 28, 2019, respectively. Non-cash share-based compensation expense was $14.4 million and $3.3 million for the nine months period ended September 26, 2020 and September 28, 2019, respectively.
c)Income Taxes
A tax provision of $18.2$28.9 million, at an effective rate of 23.1%24.5%, was recorded during the three months period ended September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, as compared to a $24.2 million tax provision at an effective rate of 22.8% in the prior year period. A tax provision of $46.5 million, at an effective rate of 23.0%, was recorded during the nine months period ended September 26, 2020, as compared to a $78.2$22.7 million tax provision at a 24.3%23.5% effective rate in the prior year period. The effective tax rates in 20202021 and 20192020 are higher than the federal tax rate of 21% primarily due to state taxes. The effective tax rate for the ninethree months period ended September 26, 2020April 3, 2021 is lowerhigher than the comparable prior year rate primarily due to a reductionan increase in non-deductible costs.



65



d)Fair Value Measures 
Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") 820 "Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures" defines fair value as the price that would be received for an asset or paid to transfer a liability (an exit price) in the principal most advantageous market for the asset or liability in an orderly transaction between market participants on the measurement date. ASC 820 establishes a fair value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value into the following levels:
Level 1 – Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2 – Inputs, other than quoted prices in active markets, that are observable either directly or indirectly.
Level 3 – Unobservable inputs based the company's own assumptions.
The company’s financial assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value and are categorized using the fair value hierarchy are as follows (in thousands):
Fair Value
Level 1
Fair Value
Level 2
Fair Value
Level 3
TotalFair Value
Level 1
Fair Value
Level 2
Fair Value
Level 3
Total
As of September 26, 2020
As of April 3, 2021As of April 3, 2021
Financial Assets:Financial Assets:
Interest rate swaps Interest rate swaps$$3,014 $$3,014 
Financial Liabilities:Financial Liabilities:
Interest rate swaps Interest rate swaps$$37,368 $$37,368 
Contingent consideration Contingent consideration$$$25,801 $25,801 
Foreign exchange derivative contracts Foreign exchange derivative contracts$$750 $$750 
As of January 2, 2021As of January 2, 2021
Financial Liabilities:Financial Liabilities:Financial Liabilities:
Interest rate swaps Interest rate swaps$$57,820 $$57,820  Interest rate swaps$$51,093 $$51,093 
Contingent consideration Contingent consideration$$$10,542 $10,542  Contingent consideration$$$25,558 $25,558 
Foreign exchange derivative contracts Foreign exchange derivative contracts171 $171  Foreign exchange derivative contracts$$2,191 $$2,191 
As of December 28, 2019
Financial Assets:
Interest rate swaps$$1,830 $$1,830 
Financial Liabilities:
Interest rate swaps$$25,120 $$25,120 
Contingent consideration$$$6,697 $6,697 
Foreign exchange derivative contracts$$901 $$901 
The contingent consideration as of September 26, 2020April 3, 2021 and December 28, 2019,January 2, 2021, relates to the earnout provisions recorded in conjunction with various purchase agreements. The earnout provisions associated with these acquisitions are based upon performance measurements related to sales and earnings, as defined in the respective purchase agreement. On a quarterly basis, the company assesses the projected results for each acquired business in comparison to the earnout targets and adjusts the liability accordingly.
e)    Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Cash paid for interest was $51.1$16.6 million and $61.7$14.1 million for the ninethree months ended September 26,April 3, 2021 and March 28, 2020, and September 28, 2019, respectively. Cash payments totaling $28.0$12.8 million and $65.7$6.2 million were made for income taxes for the ninethree months ended September 26,April 3, 2021 and March 28, 2020, and September 28, 2019, respectively.
7


f)    Earnings Per Share
“Basic earnings per share” is calculated based upon the weighted average number of common shares actually outstanding, and “diluted earnings per share” is calculated based upon the weighted average number of common shares outstanding and other dilutive securities.
The company’s potentially dilutive securities consist of shares issuable on vesting of restricted stock grants computed using the treasury method and amounted to 118,0008,269 and 48,000,2,033 for the three months ended April 3, 2021, and nine months periods ended September 26,March 28, 2020, respectively. There were no potentially dilutive securities for the three and nine months periods ended September 28, 2019. For the three and nine months periods ended September 26, 2020, asApril 3, 2021, the average market price of the company's common stock has not exceeded the exercise price of the Convertible Notes and there(as defined below) resulting in 744,334 diluted common stock equivalents to be included in the diluted net earnings per share for the period. There have been no conversions to date, there is no impact to the diluted earnings per share. See Note 12, Financing Arrangements in these Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for further details on the Convertible Notes. There were no anti-dilutive restricted stock grants excluded from common stock equivalents in any period presented.
86


2)    Acquisitions and Purchase Accounting
The company operates in a highly fragmented industry and has completed numerous acquisitions over the past several years as a component of its growth strategy. The company has acquired industry leading brands and technologies to position itself as a leader in the commercial foodservice equipment, food processing equipment and residential kitchen equipment industries.

The company has accountedaccounts for all business combinations using the acquisition method to record a new cost basis for the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The difference between the purchase price and the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed has been recorded as goodwill in the financial statements. The company also recognizes identifiable intangible assets, primarily trade names and customer relationships, at their fair value using a discounted cash flow model. The significant assumptions used to estimate the value of the intangible assets include revenue growth rates, projected profit margins, discount rates, royalty rates, and customer attrition rates. These significant assumptions are forward-looking and could be affected by future economic and market conditions. The results of operations are reflected in the consolidated financial statements of the company from the dates of acquisition.

The following represents the company's significant acquisitions in 2020 and 2019 as well as summarized information onof various acquisitions by the company that were not individually material.material in 2020. The company also made smallercompleted no acquisitions not presented below which are individually and collectively immaterial.during the three months ended April 3, 2021.
Cooking Solutions Group2020 Acquisitions
On April 1, 2019,During 2020, the company completed its acquisition of all of the capital stock of Cooking Solutions Group, Inc. ("Cooking Solutions Group") from Standex International Corporation, which consists of the brands APW Wyott, Bakers Pride, BKI and Ultrafryer with locations in Texas, South Carolina and Mexico for a purchase price of approximately $106.1 million, net of cash acquired. During the third quarter of 2019, the company finalized the working capital provision provided for by the purchase agreement resulting in a payment due to the sellers of $0.1 million.
The final allocation of consideration paid for the Cooking Solutions Group acquisition is summarized as follows (in thousands):
(as initially
reported)
April 1, 2019
Measurement
Period
Adjustments
(as adjusted)
April 1, 2019
Cash$843 $$843 
Current assets33,666 (1,625)32,041 
Property, plant and equipment15,959 (58)15,901 
Goodwill31,207 6,330 37,537 
Other intangibles53,450 (5,850)47,600 
Other assets1,470 1,470 
Current liabilities(15,130)(1,583)(16,713)
Long-term deferred tax liability(13,082)2,553 (10,529)
Other non-current liabilities(1,163)(1,163)
Net assets acquired and liabilities assumed$106,913 $74 $106,987 
The long-term deferred tax liability amounted to $10.5 million. The net deferred tax liability is comprised of $11.6 million of deferred tax liability related to the difference between the book and tax basis on identifiable intangible asset and liability accounts and $1.1 million of deferred tax asset related to the difference between the book and tax basis on identifiable tangible assets and liability accounts.
The goodwill and $24.7 million of other intangibles associated with the trade name are subject to the non-amortization provisions of ASC 350. Other intangibles also include $22.5 million allocated to customer relationships and $0.4 million allocated to backlog, which are being amortized over periods of 9 years and 3 months, respectively. Goodwill and other intangibles of Cooking Solutions Group are allocated to the Commercial Foodservice Equipment Group for segment reporting purposes. These assets are not expected to be deductible for tax purposes.
9


Other 2019 Acquisitions
During 2019, the company completed various other acquisitions that were not individually material. The estimated fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed are based on the information that was available as of the acquisition dates for the other 20192020 acquisitions and are summarized as follows (in thousands):
Preliminary Opening Balance SheetPreliminary Measurement
Period
Adjustments
Adjusted Opening Balance SheetPreliminary Opening Balance SheetPreliminary Measurement
Period
Adjustments
Adjusted Opening Balance Sheet
CashCash$2,683 $(10)$2,673 Cash$14,647 $$14,647 
Current assetsCurrent assets21,525 1,016 22,541 Current assets43,670 (13,391)30,279 
Property, plant and equipmentProperty, plant and equipment8,920 (166)8,754 Property, plant and equipment3,014 (241)2,773 
GoodwillGoodwill99,838 (11,213)88,625 Goodwill55,335 1,191 56,526 
Other intangiblesOther intangibles64,019 11,363 75,382 Other intangibles63,201 63,201 
Long-term deferred tax asset1,288 1,428 2,716 
Other assetsOther assets137 854 991 Other assets6,121 52 6,173 
Current liabilitiesCurrent liabilities(20,437)(348)(20,785)Current liabilities(54,478)12,434 (42,044)
Long-term deferred tax liabilityLong-term deferred tax liability(123)(123)
Other non-current liabilitiesOther non-current liabilities(6,170)(4,129)(10,299)Other non-current liabilities(21,902)(45)(21,947)
Consideration paid at closingConsideration paid at closing$171,803 $(1,205)$170,598 Consideration paid at closing$109,485 $$109,485 
Deferred paymentsDeferred payments2,404 2,404 Deferred payments8,666 8,666 
Contingent considerationContingent consideration4,258 3,600 7,858 Contingent consideration16,144 16,144 
Net assets acquired and liabilities assumedNet assets acquired and liabilities assumed$178,465 $2,395 $180,860 Net assets acquired and liabilities assumed$134,295 $$134,295 
The long-term deferred tax assetliability amounted to $2.7 million. The net deferred tax asset$0.1 million and is comprised of $2.9 million of deferred tax asset related to tax loss carryforwards, $1.0 million of deferred tax liability related to the difference between the book and tax basis of identifiable intangible assets and $0.8 million of deferred tax asset related to the difference between the book and tax basis on identifiable tangible assetother assets and liability accounts.
The goodwill and $33.8$23.1 million of other intangibles associated with the trade names are subject to the non-amortization provisions of ASC 350. Other intangibles also include $27.9$14.0 million allocated to customer relationships, $12.3$20.7 million allocated to developed technology and $1.4$5.4 million allocated to backlog, which are being amortized over periods of 5 to 107 years, 57 to 12 years, and 3 to 9 months, respectively. Goodwill of $42.6$56.5 million and other intangibles of $35.5$63.2 million of the companies are allocated to the Commercial Foodservice Equipment Group for segment reporting purposes. Goodwill of $34.9 million and other intangibles of $30.1 million are allocated to the Food Processing Equipment Group for segment reporting purposes. Goodwill of $11.2 million and other intangibles of $9.8 million are allocated to the Residential Kitchen Equipment Group for segment reporting purposes. Of these assets, goodwill of $77.8$20.0 million and all other intangibles of $64.8 million are expected to be deductible for tax purposes.
Two

7


Several purchase agreements include deferred paymentspayment and earnout provisions providing for contingent payments due to the sellers to the extent certain financial targets are exceeded. The deferred payments are payable between 20202021 and 2022. The contractual obligations associated with the deferred payments on the acquisition datesdate amount to $2.4$8.7 million. The earnouts are payable between 2021 and 2030,2023, if the companies exceedcompany exceeds certain sales and earnings targets. The contractual obligations associated with the contingent earnout provisions recognized on the acquisition datesdate amount to $7.9 million.
The company believes that information gathered to date provides a reasonable basis for estimating the fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, but the company is waiting for additional information necessary to finalize those fair values for various 2019 acquisitions. Thus, the provisional measurements of fair value set forth above are subject to change. The company expects to complete the purchase price allocations during 2020.


10


2020 Acquisitions
As of September 26, 2020, the company has completed various acquisitions that were not individually material. The following estimated fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed are based on the information that was available as of the acquisition dates for the acquisitions and are summarized as follows (in thousands):
Preliminary Opening Balance SheetPreliminary Measurement
Period
Adjustments
Adjusted Opening Balance Sheet
Cash$2,347 $$2,347 
Current assets31,089 (12,908)18,181 
Property, plant and equipment1,032 (241)791 
Goodwill12,776 672 13,448 
Other intangibles16,484 16,484 
Other assets1,708 1,708 
Current liabilities(30,005)12,477 (17,528)
Other non-current liabilities(3,070)(3,070)
Consideration paid at closing$32,361 $$32,361 
Deferred payments1,250 1,250 
Contingent consideration1,774 1,774 
Net assets acquired and liabilities assumed$35,385 $$35,385 
The goodwill and $9.0 million of other intangibles associated with the trade names are subject to the non-amortization provisions of ASC 350. Other intangibles also include $5.3 million allocated to customer relationships, $0.2 million allocated to developed technology and $2.0 million allocated to backlog, which are being amortized over periods of 7 years, 7 years, and 9 months, respectively. Goodwill of $13.4 million and other intangibles of $16.5 million of the companies are allocated to the Commercial Foodservice Equipment Group for segment reporting purposes and are expected to be deductible for tax purposes.
One purchase agreement includes a deferred payment and earnout provision providing for contingent payments due to the sellers to the extent certain financial targets are exceeded. The deferred payment is payable during 2020. The contractual obligation associated with the deferred payments on the acquisition date is $1.3 million. The earnout is payable in 2023, if the company exceeds certain sales and earnings targets. The contractual obligation associated with the contingent earnout provision recognized on the acquisition date is $1.8$16.1 million.
The company believes that information gathered to date provides a reasonable basis for estimating the fair values of assets acquired and liabilities assumed, but the company is waiting for additional information necessary to finalize those fair values for substantially all 2020 acquisitions to date. Thus, the provisional measurements of fair value set forth above are subject to change. The company expects to complete the purchase price allocation as soon as practicable but no later than one year from the acquisition date.
11


Pro Forma Financial Information
 
In accordance with ASC 805 Business Combinations, the following unaudited pro forma results of operations for the ninethree months ended September 26,April 3, 2021 and March 28, 2020, and September 28, 2019, assumes the 2019 and 2020 acquisitions described above were completed on December 30, 201829, 2019 (first day of fiscal year 2019)2020). The following pro forma results include adjustments to reflect amortization of intangibles associated with the acquisition and the effects of adjustments made to the carrying value of certain assets (in thousands, except per share data): 
Nine Months EndedThree Months Ended
September 26, 2020September 28, 2019 April 3, 2021March 28, 2020
Net salesNet sales$1,786,481 $2,262,959 Net sales$758,058 $689,593 
Net earningsNet earnings158,115 231,068 Net earnings91,882 67,302 
Net earnings per share:Net earnings per share:  Net earnings per share:  
BasicBasic$2.87 $4.15 Basic$1.66 $1.21 
DilutedDiluted$2.87 $4.15 Diluted$1.64 $1.21 
 
The historical consolidated financial information of the Company and the acquisitions have been adjusted in the pro forma information to give effect to pro forma events that are (1) directly attributable to the transactions, (2) factually supportable and (3) expected to have a continuing impact on the combined results. Pro forma data may not be indicative of the results that would have been obtained had these acquisitions occurred at the beginning of the periods presented, nor is it intended to be a projection of future results. Additionally, the pro forma financial information does not reflect the costs which the company has incurred or may incur to integrate the acquired businesses.
3)    Litigation Matters
From time to time, the company is subject to proceedings, lawsuits and other claims related to products, suppliers, employees, customers and competitors. The company maintains insurance to partially cover product liability, workers compensation, property and casualty, and general liability matters. The company is required to assess the likelihood of any adverse judgments or outcomes to these matters as well as potential ranges of probable losses. A determination of the amount of accrual required, if any, for these contingencies is made after assessment of each matter and the related insurance coverage. The required accrual may change in the future due to new developments or changes in approach such as a change in settlement strategy in dealing with these matters. The company does not believe that any pending litigation will have a material effect on its financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
8


4)    Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Accounting Pronouncements - Recently Adopted

In June 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-13, “Financial Instruments - Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments”, and has since modified the standard with several ASUs (collectively, the “new credit loss standard”). The new credit loss standard requires a financial asset (or a group of financial assets) measured at amortized cost basis to be presented at the net amount expected to be collected. The measurement of expected credit losses is based on relevant information about past events, including historical experience, current conditions and reasonable and supportable forecasts that affect the collectability of the reported amount. The company adopted the new standard as of December 29, 2019 (first day of fiscal year 2020) using the modified retrospective approach. As a result of the company's assessment process on its receivables and contract assets portfolio, which is the only financial instrument in scope of this standard, the adoption of this guidance did not have a material impact on the company's Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.  

In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU 2017-04, "Intangibles - Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment". The amendments in ASU-04 simplify the subsequent measurement of goodwill, by removing the second step of the goodwill impairment test. An entity will apply a one-step quantitative test and record the amount of goodwill impairment as the excess of a reporting unit's carrying amount over its fair value. The new guidance does not amend the optional qualitative assessment of goodwill impairment. The company adopted this guidance on December 29, 2019 on a prospective basis. The adoption of this guidance did not have an impact on the company's Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
12


In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-13, "Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework - Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement". The amendments in ASU-13 remove, modify and add various disclosure requirements around fair value measurement in order to clarify and improve the cost-benefit nature of disclosures. The company adopted this guidance on December 29, 2019 on a prospective basis. The adoption of this guidance did not have an impact on the company's Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-15, "Intangibles - Goodwill and Other - Internal-Use Software (Subtopic 350-40)". The amendments in ASU-15 align the requirements for capitalizing implementation costs in a service contract hosting arrangement with those of developing or obtaining internal-use software. The company adopted this guidance on December 29, 2019 on a prospective basis. The adoption of this guidance did not have an impact on the company's Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

Accounting Pronouncements - To be adopted

In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-14, "Compensation - Retirement Benefits - Defined Benefit Plans - General (Subtopic 715-20)". The amendments in ASU-14 remove, modify and add various disclosure requirements around the topic in order to clarify and improve the cost-benefit nature of disclosures. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods, and interim periods within those reporting periods, beginning after December 15, 2020 with early adoption permitted. The amendments must be applied on a retrospective basis for all periods presented. The company is currently evaluating the impacts the adoption of this guidance will have on its Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-12, "Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes (Topic 740)", which removes certain exceptions related to the approach for intra-period tax allocation, the methodology for calculating income taxes in an interim period and the recognition of deferred tax liabilities for outside basis differences. This guidance also clarifies and simplifies other areas of ASC 740. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods, and interim periods within those reporting periods, beginning after December 15, 2020 with early adoption permitted. Certain amendments in this update must be applied on a prospective basis, certain amendments must be applied on a retrospective basis, and certain amendments must be applied on a modified retrospective basis through a cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings in the period of adoption. The company is currently evaluating the impacts the adoption of this guidance will have on its Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-04, "Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848) - Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting". Subject to meeting certain criteria, ASU 2020-04 provides optional expedients and exceptions to applying contract modification accounting under existing generally accepted accounting principles, for contracts that are modified to address the expected phase out of the London Inter-bank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) by the end of 2021. Some of the Company’s contracts with respect to its borrowings and interest rate swap contracts already contain comparable alternative reference rates that would automatically take effect upon the phasing out of LIBOR, while for others, the company anticipates negotiating comparable replacement rates with its counterparties.  This guidance is effective for all entities from the beginning of an interim period that includes the issuance date of the ASU. An entity may elect to apply the amendments prospectively through December 31, 2022. The company is currently evaluating the impacts the adoption of this guidance will have on its Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

In August 2020, the FASB issued ASU No. 2020-06, “Debt-Debt with Conversion and Other Options (Subtopic 470-20) and Derivatives and Hedging- Contracts in Entity’s Own Equity (Subtopic 815-40): Accounting for Convertible Instruments and Contracts in an Entity’s Own Equity”, which simplifies the accounting for convertible instruments by eliminating the requirement to separate embedded conversion features from the host contract when the conversion features are not required to be accounted for as derivatives under Topic 815, Derivatives and Hedging, or that do not result in substantial premiums accounted for as paid-in capital. By removing the separation model, a convertible debt instrument will be reported as a single liability instrument with no separate accounting for embedded conversion features. This new standard also removes certain settlement conditions that are required for contracts to qualify for equity classification and simplifies the diluted earnings per share calculations by requiring that an entity use the if-converted method and that the effect of potential share settlement be included in diluted earnings per share calculations. Effective January 3, 2021, the company early adopted ASU 2020-06 using the modified retrospective approach. Adoption of the new standard resulted in an increase to the opening balance of retained earnings of $5.1 million, a decrease to additional paid-in capital of $79.4 million, and an increase to convertible senior notes of $98.4 million. In addition, the company ceased recording non-cash interest expense associated with amortization of the debt discount and calculates earnings per share using the if-converted method to the extent those shares are not anti-dilutive.
In December 2019, the FASB issued ASU 2019-12, "Simplifying the Accounting for Income Taxes (Topic 740)", which removes certain exceptions related to the approach for intra-period tax allocation, the methodology for calculating income taxes in an interim period and the recognition of deferred tax liabilities for outside basis differences. This guidance also clarifies and simplifies other areas of ASC 740. This guidance is effective for annual reporting periods, and interim periods within those reporting periods, beginning after December 15, 20212020 with early adoption permitted. Adoption is eitherCertain amendments in this update must be applied on a prospective basis, certain amendments must be applied on a retrospective basis, and certain amendments must be applied on a modified retrospective method orbasis through a fully retrospective. cumulative-effect adjustment to retained earnings in the period of adoption. The company adopted this guidance on January 3, 2021, and it did not have a material impact on the company's Consolidated Financial Statements upon adoption.

Accounting Pronouncements - To be adopted
In March 2020, the FASB issued ASU 2020-04, "Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848) - Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting". Subject to meeting certain criteria, ASU 2020-04 provides optional expedients and exceptions to applying contract modification accounting under existing generally accepted accounting principles, for contracts that are modified to address the expected phase out of the London Inter-bank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) by the end of 2021. Some of the Company’s contracts with respect to its borrowings and interest rate swap contracts already contain comparable alternative reference rates that would automatically take effect upon the phasing out of LIBOR, while for others, the company anticipates negotiating comparable replacement rates with its counterparties.  In January 2021, the FASB issued ASU 2021-01 to provide supplemental guidance and to further clarify the scope. This guidance is effective for all entities from the beginning of an interim period that includes the issuance date of the ASU. An entity may elect to apply the amendments prospectively through December 31, 2022. The company is currently evaluating earlythe impacts the adoption and the impactsof this guidance will have on its Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.


139


5)    Revenue Recognition

Disaggregation of Revenue

The company disaggregates its net sales by reportable operating segment and geographical location as the company believes it best depicts how the nature, timing and uncertainty of its net sales and cash flows are affected by economic factors. In general, the Commercial Foodservice Equipment and Residential Foodservice Equipment Groups recognize revenue at the point in time control transfers to their customers based on contractual shipping terms. Revenue from equipment sold under the company's long-term contracts within the Food Processing Equipment group is recognized over time as the equipment is manufactured and assembled. The following table summarizes the company's net sales by reportable operating segment and geographical location (in thousands):
Commercial
Foodservice
Food ProcessingResidential KitchenTotal Commercial
 Foodservice
Food ProcessingResidential KitchenTotal
Three Months Ended September 26, 2020   
Three Months Ended April 3, 2021Three Months Ended April 3, 2021   
United States and CanadaUnited States and Canada$265,793 $82,126 $97,318 $445,237 United States and Canada$338,837 $79,650 $108,574 $527,061 
AsiaAsia39,864 4,711 1,875 46,450 Asia49,719 4,003 3,032 56,754 
Europe and Middle EastEurope and Middle East60,603 18,600 52,216 131,419 Europe and Middle East82,017 20,425 51,844 154,286 
Latin AmericaLatin America4,963 5,211 1,245 11,419 Latin America10,582 8,416 959 19,957 
TotalTotal$371,223 $110,648 $152,654 $634,525 Total$481,155 $112,494 $164,409 $758,058 
Nine Months Ended September 26, 2020   
Three Months Ended March 28, 2020Three Months Ended March 28, 2020
United States and CanadaUnited States and Canada$768,202 $227,770 $264,116 $1,260,088 United States and Canada$306,510 $72,882 $85,074 $464,466 
AsiaAsia104,936 18,460 3,753 127,149 Asia37,524 7,639 978 46,141 
Europe and Middle EastEurope and Middle East180,187 57,051 117,187 354,425 Europe and Middle East79,732 19,347 43,465 142,544 
Latin AmericaLatin America28,522 13,196 581 42,299 Latin America19,358 4,398 552 24,308 
TotalTotal$1,081,847 $316,477 $385,637 $1,783,961 Total$443,124 $104,266 $130,069 $677,459 
Three Months Ended September 28, 2019
United States and Canada$346,616 $57,255 $86,859 $490,730 
Asia53,463 5,100 1,490 60,053 
Europe and Middle East82,244 21,125 44,395 147,764 
Latin America18,667 5,667 1,133 25,467 
Total$500,990 $89,147 $133,877 $724,014 
Nine Months Ended September 28, 2019
United States and Canada$1,004,609 $172,944 $270,689 $1,448,242 
Asia153,787 21,836 4,355 179,978 
Europe and Middle East258,102 67,624 142,016 467,742 
Latin America55,302 17,070 3,486 75,858 
Total$1,471,800 $279,474 $420,546 $2,171,820 


1410


Contract Balances

Contract assets primarily relate to the company's right to consideration for work completed but not billed at the reporting date and are recorded in prepaid expenses and other in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. Contract assets are transferred to receivables when the right to consideration becomes unconditional. Accounts receivable are not considered contract assets under the revenue standard as contract assets are conditioned upon the company's future satisfaction of a performance obligation. Accounts receivable, in contracts, are unconditional rights to consideration.

Contract liabilities relate to advance consideration received from customers for which revenue has not been recognized. Current contract liabilities are recorded in accrued expenses in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. Non-current contract liabilities are recorded in other non-current liabilities in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet. Contract liabilities are reduced when the associated revenue from the contract is recognized.

The following table provides information about contract assets and contract liabilities from contracts with customers (in thousands):
Sep 26, 2020Dec 28, 2019 Apr 3, 2021Jan 2, 2021
Contract assetsContract assets$21,345 $22,675 Contract assets$18,899 $20,328 
Contract liabilitiesContract liabilities$86,103 $74,511 Contract liabilities$108,766 $93,871 
Non-current contract liabilitiesNon-current contract liabilities$12,488 $12,870 Non-current contract liabilities$13,020 $13,523 

During the ninethree months period ended September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, the company reclassified $13.0$8.7 million to receivables, which was included in the contract asset balance at the beginning of the period. During the ninethree months period ended September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, the company recognized revenue of $43.8$59.1 million which was included in the contract liability balance at the beginning of the period. Additions to contract liabilities representing amounts billed to clients in excess of revenue recognized to date were $70.9$84.3 million during the ninethree months period ended September 26, 2020. The increase in contract liabilities primarily relates to companies acquired during the nine months period ended September 26, 2020.April 3, 2021. Substantially, all of the company's outstanding performance obligations will be satisfied within 12 to 36 months. There were 0 contract asset impairments during the ninethree months period ended September 26, 2020.April 3, 2021.
1511


6)    Other Comprehensive Income
The company reports changes in equity during a period, except those resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners, in accordance with ASC 220, "Comprehensive Income".
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive income(1) were as follows (in thousands):
Currency Translation AdjustmentPension Benefit CostsUnrealized Gain/(Loss) Interest Rate SwapTotal
Balance as of January 2, 2021Balance as of January 2, 2021$(49,961)$(400,919)$(37,548)$(488,428)
Other comprehensive income before reclassificationOther comprehensive income before reclassification(10,614)(3,970)7,389 (7,195)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive incomeAmounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income5,023 5,023 
Net current-period other comprehensive incomeNet current-period other comprehensive income$(10,614)$(3,970)$12,412 $(2,172)
Balance as of April 3, 2021Balance as of April 3, 2021$(60,575)$(404,889)$(25,136)$(490,600)
Currency Translation AdjustmentPension Benefit CostsUnrealized Gain/(Loss) Interest Rate SwapTotal
Balance as of December 28, 2019Balance as of December 28, 2019$(105,705)$(228,336)$(16,892)$(350,933)Balance as of December 28, 2019$(105,705)$(228,336)$(16,892)$(350,933)
Other comprehensive income before reclassificationOther comprehensive income before reclassification(3,213)6,184 (35,646)(32,675)Other comprehensive income before reclassification(48,916)14,808 (26,486)(60,594)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive incomeAmounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income10,419 10,419 Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income1,267 1,267 
Net current-period other comprehensive incomeNet current-period other comprehensive income$(3,213)$6,184 $(25,227)$(22,256)Net current-period other comprehensive income$(48,916)$14,808 $(25,219)$(59,327)
Balance as of September 26, 2020$(108,918)$(222,152)$(42,119)$(373,189)
Balance as of December 29, 2018$(112,771)$(170,938)$7,233 $(276,476)
Adoption of ASU 2017-12 (2)11 11 
Other comprehensive income before reclassification(27,190)4,966 (27,201)(49,425)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income(1,953)(1,953)
Net current-period other comprehensive income$(27,190)$4,966 $(29,143)$(51,367)
Balance as of September 28, 2019$(139,961)$(165,972)$(21,910)$(327,843)
Balance as of March 28, 2020Balance as of March 28, 2020$(154,621)$(213,528)$(42,111)$(410,260)
(1) As of September 26,April 3, 2021, pension and interest rate swap amounts are net of tax of $(90.0) million and $(8.8) million, respectively. During the three months ended April 3, 2021, the adjustments to pension benefit costs and unrealized gain/(loss) interest rate swap were net of tax of $(0.9) million and $4.3 million, respectively. As of March 28, 2020 pension and interest rate swap amounts are net of tax of $(47.3)$(45.5) million and $(15.3) million, respectively. During the ninethree months ended September 26,March 28, 2020, the adjustments to pension benefit costs and unrealized gain/(loss) interest rate swap were net of tax of $1.3$3.1 million and $(9.3) million, respectively. As of September 28, 2019 pension and interest rate swap amounts are net of tax of $(35.8) million and $(7.3) million, respectively. During the nine months ended September 28, 2019, the adjustments to pension benefit costs and unrealized gain/(loss) interest rate swap were net of tax of $1.0 million and $(9.9) million, respectively.
    (2) As of December 30, 2018, the company adopted ASU No. 2017-12, "Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Targeted Improvements to Accounting for Hedging Activities" using the modified retrospective method. The adoption of this guidance resulted in the recognition of less than $0.1 million as an adjustment to the opening balance of retained earnings.
Components of other comprehensive income were as follows (in thousands):
Three Months EndedNine Months Ended Three Months Ended
Sep 26, 2020Sep 28, 2019Sep 26, 2020Sep 28, 2019 Apr 3, 2021Mar 28, 2020
Net earningsNet earnings$60,516 $82,020 $155,457 $243,243 Net earnings$89,263 $73,779 
Currency translation adjustmentCurrency translation adjustment25,851 (25,428)(3,213)(27,190)Currency translation adjustment(10,614)(48,916)
Pension liability adjustment, net of taxPension liability adjustment, net of tax(6,133)4,975 6,184 4,966 Pension liability adjustment, net of tax(3,970)14,808 
Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swaps, net of taxUnrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swaps, net of tax2,653 (5,652)(25,227)(29,143)Unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swaps, net of tax12,412 (25,219)
Comprehensive incomeComprehensive income$82,887 $55,915 $133,201 $191,876 Comprehensive income$87,091 $14,452 
16


7)    Inventories
Inventories are composed of material, labor and overhead and are stated at the lower of cost or market. Costs for inventory have been determined using the first-in, first-out ("FIFO") method. The company estimates reserves for inventory obsolescence and shrinkage based on its judgment of future realization. Inventories at September 26, 2020April 3, 2021 and December 28, 2019January 2, 2021 are as follows (in thousands): 
Sep 26, 2020Dec 28, 2019 Apr 3, 2021Jan 2, 2021
Raw materials and partsRaw materials and parts$274,769 $277,394 Raw materials and parts$292,068 $263,200 
Work-in-processWork-in-process59,496 58,663 Work-in-process57,537 55,104 
Finished goodsFinished goods223,247 249,642 Finished goods224,672 221,894 
$557,512 $585,699  $574,277 $540,198 
12


8)    Goodwill
Changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the ninethree months ended September 26, 2020April 3, 2021 are as follows (in thousands):
Commercial
Foodservice
Food
Processing
Residential KitchenTotal
Balance as of December 28, 2019$1,153,552 $257,679 $438,516 $1,849,747 
Goodwill acquired during the year13,448 13,448 
Measurement period adjustments to
goodwill acquired in prior year
(55)(8,732)1,673 (7,114)
Exchange effect3,571 2,706 (6,997)(720)
Balance as of September 26, 2020$1,170,516 $251,653 $433,192 $1,855,361 
Commercial
Foodservice
Food
Processing
Residential KitchenTotal
Balance as of January 2, 2021$1,228,436 $255,798 $450,027 $1,934,261 
Measurement period adjustments to
goodwill acquired in prior year
(247)(247)
Exchange effect(5,558)(2,552)2,740 (5,370)
Balance as of April 3, 2021$1,222,631 $253,246 $452,767 $1,928,644 

The company continues to monitor the global outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic to assess the outlook for demand of its products and the impact on its business and financial performance. The potential impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on demand, production levels, and its operating results in the short-term is uncertain, but the company remains committed to the strategic actions necessary to realize long-term revenue and cash flow growth rates. The potential negative demand effect on revenues is also uncertain given the volatile environment, but demand and production levels are anticipated to recover.

As a result of the company's analysis, and in consideration of the totality of events and circumstances, there were no triggering events requiring an interim goodwillannual impairment assessment identified during the nine months period ended September 26, 2020.

Additionally, for the assessment of indefinite-life intangible assets other than goodwill, primarily trademarks and trade names, the company identified several trademarks and trade names with indicators of potential risk for impairment and performed quantitative assessments. The fair values of the trademarks tested exceeded their carrying values by more than 10%. As a result, 0 impairment charges for goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets were recorded duringis performed as of the nine months period ended September 26, 2020.first day of the fourth quarter and since that assessment the company does not believe there are any indicators of impairment requiring subsequent analysis. This is supported by the review of order rates, backlog levels and financial performance across business segments.


17


9)    Intangibles

Intangible assets consist of the following (in thousands):
 
September 26, 2020December 28, 2019 April 3, 2021January 2, 2021
Estimated
Weighted Avg
Remaining
Life
Gross
Carrying
Amount
Accumulated
Amortization
Estimated
Weighted Avg
Remaining
Life
Gross
Carrying
Amount
Accumulated
Amortization
Estimated
Weighted Avg
Remaining
Life
Gross
Carrying
Amount
Accumulated
Amortization
Estimated
Weighted Avg
Remaining
Life
Gross
Carrying
Amount
Accumulated
Amortization
Amortized intangible assets:Amortized intangible assets:      Amortized intangible assets:      
Customer listsCustomer lists8.7$726,631 $(331,670)9.2$717,397 $(283,846)Customer lists8.3$735,264 $(362,393)8.5$735,264 $(347,029)
BacklogBacklog0.531,336 (30,389)1.329,426 (28,283)Backlog0.134,729 (34,268)0.334,729 (31,924)
Developed technologyDeveloped technology7.336,351 (23,678)5.232,999 (21,378)Developed technology9.856,931 (25,508)10.056,931 (24,394)
 $794,318 $(385,737) $779,822 $(333,507)  $826,924 $(422,169) $826,924 $(403,347)
Indefinite-lived assets:Indefinite-lived assets:      Indefinite-lived assets:      
Trademarks and tradenamesTrademarks and tradenames $1,012,019   $997,066  Trademarks and tradenames $1,023,539   $1,026,804  


The aggregate intangible amortization expense was $16.9$18.8 million and $17.3$16.9 million for the three months period ended September 26,April 3, 2021 and March 28, 2020, and September 28, 2019, respectively. The aggregate intangible amortization expense was $51.4 million and $48.1 million for the nine months period ended September 26, 2020 and September 28, 2019, respectively. The estimated future amortization expense of intangible assets is as follows (in thousands):
 
Twelve Month Period coinciding with the end of the company's Fiscal Third QuarterAmortization Expense
Twelve Month Period coinciding with the end of the company's Fiscal First QuarterTwelve Month Period coinciding with the end of the company's Fiscal First QuarterAmortization Expense
2021$64,119 
2022202260,564 2022$65,516 
2023202354,096 202360,567 
2024202445,053 202454,282 
2025202535,892 202541,939 
2026202637,501 
ThereafterThereafter148,857 Thereafter144,950 
$408,581 $404,755 

1813


10)    Accrued Expenses
Accrued expenses consist of the following (in thousands):
Sep 26, 2020Dec 28, 2019 Apr 3, 2021Jan 2, 2021
Contract liabilitiesContract liabilities$86,103 $74,511 Contract liabilities$108,766 $93,871 
Accrued payroll and related expensesAccrued payroll and related expenses71,526 80,621 Accrued payroll and related expenses105,085 93,926 
Accrued warrantyAccrued warranty67,714 66,374 Accrued warranty75,094 69,667 
Accrued customer rebatesAccrued customer rebates33,418 51,709 Accrued customer rebates30,630 43,703 
Accrued short-term leasesAccrued short-term leases22,041 22,493 
Accrued sales and other taxAccrued sales and other tax23,438 19,862 Accrued sales and other tax16,730 22,030 
Accrued short-term leases23,297 21,827 
Accrued professional feesAccrued professional fees13,782 12,133 
Accrued product liability and workers compensationAccrued product liability and workers compensation12,402 12,909 
Accrued agent commissionAccrued agent commission12,215 11,105 
Accrued interest rate swapsAccrued interest rate swaps15,282 Accrued interest rate swaps10,672 14,075 
Accrued product liability and workers compensation13,134 15,164 
Accrued professional fees12,291 13,368 
Accrued agent commission10,562 13,816 
Accrued restructuring5,818 1,121 
Accrued liabilities held for saleAccrued liabilities held for sale22,313 
Other accrued expensesOther accrued expenses58,997 58,177 Other accrued expenses72,496 76,316 
$421,580 $416,550  $479,913 $494,541 

11)    Warranty Costs
In the normal course of business, the company issues product warranties for specific product lines and provides for the estimated future warranty cost in the period in which the sale is recorded. The estimate of warranty cost is based on contract terms and historical warranty loss experience that is periodically adjusted for recent actual experience. Because warranty estimates are forecasts that are based on the best available information, actual claims costs may differ from amounts provided. Adjustments to initial obligations for warranties are made as changes in the obligations become reasonably estimable.
A rollforward of the warranty reserve is as follows (in thousands):
 NineThree Months Ended
 Sep 26, 2020Apr 3, 2021
Balance as of December 28, 2019January 2, 2021$66,37469,667 
Warranty reserve related to acquisitions1,335 
Warranty expense42,48020,881 
Warranty claims(42,475)(15,454)
Balance as of September 26, 2020April 3, 2021$67,71475,094 

1914


12)    Financing Arrangements
Sep 26, 2020Dec 28, 2019 Apr 3, 2021Jan 2, 2021
(in thousands) (in thousands)
Senior secured revolving credit lineSenior secured revolving credit line$854,758 $1,869,402 Senior secured revolving credit line$755,000 $755,000 
Term loan facilityTerm loan facility345,312 Term loan facility331,250 335,938 
Convertible senior notesConvertible senior notes627,006 Convertible senior notes732,088 632,847 
Foreign loansForeign loans4,967 3,622 Foreign loans2,483 4,421 
Other debt arrangementOther debt arrangement82 116 Other debt arrangement1,312 1,390 
Total debtTotal debt1,832,125 1,873,140 Total debt1,822,133 1,729,596 
Less: Current maturities of long-term debtLess: Current maturities of long-term debt23,152 2,894 Less: Current maturities of long-term debt21,093 22,944 
Long-term debtLong-term debt1,808,973 1,870,246 Long-term debt$1,801,040 $1,706,652 

Credit Facility
On January 31, 2020, the company entered into an amended and restated five-year, $3.5 billion multi-currency senior secured credit agreement (as amended as described below, the "Credit Facility"). On August 21, 2020, the company entered into an amendment to the Credit Facility, prepaying $400.0 million aggregate principal amount of its term loan obligations owed. The Credit Facility, as amended, the company's pre-existing $3.0is in an aggregate principal amount of $3.1 billion, credit facility, which had an original maturityconsisting of July 2021, to provide for (i) a $750.0$350 million term loan facility and (ii) a $2.75 billion multi-currency revolving credit facility, with the potential under certain circumstances, to increase the amount of the credit facility to up to a total of $4.0 billion (plus additional amounts, subject to compliance with a senior secured net leverage ratio).facility. The Credit Facility matures on January 31, 2025. The term loan facility will amortizeamortizes in equal quarterly installments due on the last day of each fiscal quarter commencing with the first full fiscal quarter after January 31, 2020, in an aggregate annual amount equal to 2.50% of the original aggregate principal amount of the term loan facility, with the balance, plus any accrued interest, due and payable on January 31, 2025.
On August 21, 2020, the company issued $747.5 million aggregate principal amount of 1.00% Convertible Senior Notes                                 due 2025 (the "Convertible Notes") in a private offering pursuant to an indenture, dated August 21, 2020 (the "Indenture"), between the company and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee. The net proceeds from the sale of the Convertible Notes were approximately $729.9 million after deducting the initial purchasers' discounts and the offering expenses payable by the company. In connection with the pricing of the Convertible Notes, the company entered into privately negotiated capped call transactions (the "Capped Call Transactions") and the company used the net proceeds to pay the aggregate amount of $104.7 million for them. The Capped Call Transactions initially cover, subject to customary anti-dilution adjustments, the number of shares of the company's common stock that underlie the Convertible Notes.
The company used a portion of the net proceeds from the offering of the Convertible Notes to prepay $400.0 million aggregate principal amount of its term loan obligations owed under its Credit Facility; which was amended concurrently with the issuance of the Convertible Notes. The Credit Facility, as amended, is in an aggregate principal amount of $3.1 billion, consisting of (i) a $350 million term loan facility and (ii) a $2.75 billion multi-currency revolving credit facility. The maturity date remains unchanged at January 31, 2025. The company intends to use the remaining net proceeds for general corporate purposes, including the financing of its operations, the potential repayment of additional indebtedness and potential acquisitions and other strategic transactions.
Credit Facility
As of September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, the company had $1.2$1.1 billion of borrowings outstanding under the Credit Facility, including $814.0$755.0 million of borrowings in U.S. Dollars $40.8 million of borrowings denominated in British Pounds, and $345.3$331.3 million outstanding under the term loan. The company also had $13.4$2.3 million in outstanding letters of credit as of September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, which reduces the borrowing availability under the Credit Facility. Remaining borrowing availability under this facility was $1.9 billion at September 26, 2020.
20


At September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, borrowings under the Credit Facility accrued interest at a rate of 1.625% above LIBOR per annum or 0.625%1.00% above the highest of the prime rate, the federal funds rate plus 0.50% and one month LIBOR plus 1.00%. The average interest rate per annum, inclusive of hedging instruments, on the debt under the Credit Facility was equal to 3.75%3.32% at the end of the period. The interest rates on borrowings under the Credit Facility may be adjusted quarterly based on the company’s Funded Debt less Unrestricted Cash to Pro Forma EBITDA (the “Leverage Ratio”) on a rolling four-quarter basis. Additionally, a commitment fee based upon the Leverage Ratio is charged on the unused portion of the commitments under the Credit Facility. This variable commitment fee was equal to 0.25% per annum as of September 26, 2020. As a result of the amendment, for the quarterly periods extending through the second fiscal quarter of 2021, borrowings under the Credit Facility will accrue interest at a minimum of 2.00% above LIBOR and the variable unused commitment fee will be at a minimum of 0.35%.
April 3, 2021. The term loan facility had an average interest rate per annum, inclusive of hedging instruments, of 2.83%3.28% as of September 26, 2020.April 3, 2021.
In addition, the company has other international credit facilities to fund working capital needs outside the United States and the United Kingdom.States. At September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, these foreign credit facilities amounted to $5.0$2.5 million in U.S. Dollars with a weighted average per annum interest rate of approximately 6.08%4.50%.
15


The company’s debt is reflected on the balance sheet at cost. The fair values of the Credit Facility, term debt and foreign and other debt is based on the amount of future cash flows associated with each instrument discounted using the company's incremental borrowing rate. The company believes its interest rate margins on its existing debt are consistent with current market conditions and therefore the carrying value of debt reflects the fair value. The interest rate margin is based on the company's Leverage Ratio. The carrying value and estimated aggregate fair value, a level 2 measurement, based primarily on market prices, of debt excluding the Convertible Notes is as follows (in thousands):
 Sep 26, 2020Dec 28, 2019
 Carrying ValueFair ValueCarrying ValueFair Value
Total debt excluding convertible senior notes$1,205,119 $1,205,119 $1,873,140 $1,873,140 
 Apr 3, 2021Jan 2, 2021
 Carrying ValueFair ValueCarrying ValueFair Value
Total debt excluding convertible senior notes$1,090,045 $1,090,045 $1,096,749 $1,096,749 
The company uses floating-to-fixed interest rate swap agreements to hedge variable interest rate risk associated with the Credit Facility. At September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, the company had outstanding floating-to-fixed interest rate swaps totaling $251.0$260.0 million notional amount carrying an average interest rate of 2.39%2.36% maturing in less than 12 months and $862.0$802.0 million notional amount carrying an average interest rate of 1.87%1.91% that mature in more than 12 months but less than 8471 months.
The company believes that its current capital resources, including cash and cash equivalents, cash expected to be generated from operation, funds available from its current lenders and access to the credit and capital markets will be sufficient to finance its operations, debt service obligations, capital expenditures, product development and expenditures for the foreseeable future.

The terms of the Credit Facility, as amended, limit the ability of the company and its subsidiaries to, with certain exceptions: incur indebtedness; grant liens; engage in certain mergers, consolidations, acquisitions and dispositions; make restricted payments; enter into certain transactions with affiliates; and requires, among other things, the company to satisfy certain financial covenants: (i) a minimum Interest Coverage Ratio (as defined in the Credit Facility) of 3.00 to 1.00, (ii) a maximum Total Leverage Ratio of Funded Debt less Unrestricted Cash to Pro Forma EBITDA (each as defined in the Credit Facility) of 5.50 to 1.00, and (iii) a maximum Secured Leverage Ratio of Funded Debt less Unrestricted Cash to Pro Forma EBITDA (each as defined in the Credit Facility) of 3.50 to 1.00; which may be adjusted to 4.00 to 1.00 for a four consecutive fiscal quarter period in connection with certain qualified acquisitions, subject to the terms and conditions contained in the Credit Facility. However; the maximum secured leverage ratio is permitted to be at higher amounts for periods extending through the second fiscal quarter of 2021, after which time covenants will revert to their original levels. The Credit Facility is secured by substantially all of the assets of Middleby Marshall, the company and the company's domestic subsidiaries and is unconditionally guaranteed by, subject to certain exceptions, the company and certain of the company's direct and indirect material foreign and domestic subsidiaries. The Credit Facility contains certain customary events of default, including, but not limited to, the failure to make required payments; bankruptcy and other insolvency events; the failure to perform certain covenants; the material breach of a representation or warranty; non-payment of certain other indebtedness; the entry of undischarged judgments against the company or any subsidiary for the payment of material uninsured amounts; the invalidity of the company guarantee or any subsidiary guaranty; and a change of control of the company. At September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, the company was in compliance with all covenants pursuant to its borrowing agreements.
The company has run various scenarios to estimate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to believe that its future cash generated from operations, together with its capacity under its Credit Facility and its cash on hand, will provide adequate resources to meet its working capital needs and cash requirements and maintain compliance with financial covenants in its Credit Facility for at least the next 12 months.
21


Convertible Notes
The following table summarizes the outstanding principal amount and carrying value of the Convertible Notes:
Sep 26, 2020
(in thousands)
Principal amounts:
Principal$747,500 
Unamortized debt discount(120,494)
Net carrying amount$627,006 
 Apr 3, 2021Jan 2, 2021
 (in thousands)
Principal amounts:
Principal$747,500 $747,500 
Unamortized debt discounts(98,358)
Unamortized issuance costs(15,412)(16,295)
Net carrying amount$732,088 $632,847 
16


The following table summarizes total interest expense recognized related to the Convertible Notes:
 NineThree Months Ended
 Sep 26, 2020Apr 3, 2021
Contractual interest expense$7261,890 
Interest cost related to amortization of the debt discount and issuance costs2,130883 
Total interest expense$2,8562,773 

On August 21, 2020, the company issued $747.5 million aggregate principal amount of 1.00% Convertible Senior Notes                                 maturing on September 1, 2025 (the "Convertible Notes") in a private offering pursuant to an indenture, dated August 21, 2020 (the "Indenture"), between the company and U.S. Bank National Association, as trustee. The Convertible Notes are general unsecured obligations of the company and bear interest semi-annually in arrears. The estimated fair value of the Convertible Notes was $740.7 million$1.1 billion as of September 26, 2020April 3, 2021 and was determined through consideration of quoted market prices. The fair value is classified as Level 2, as defined in Note 1 (d), Fair Value Measurements, in these Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included in this Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. The if-converted value of the Convertible Notes did not exceedexceeded their respective principal value by $214.2 million as of September 26, 2020.April 3, 2021.

TheOn January 3, 2021, the company adopted ASU 2020-06, “Accounting for Convertible Notes are general unsecured obligations ofInstruments and Contracts in an Entity’s Own Equity", using the company. The Convertible Notes rank senior in right of paymentmodified retrospective method. Prior to any ofJanuary 3, 2021, the company’s future indebtedness that is expressly subordinated in right of payment to the Convertible Notes; rank equal in right of payment to the company’s existing and future unsecured indebtedness that is not so subordinated; are effectively subordinated in right of payment to any of the company’s secured indebtedness to the extent of the value of the assets securing such indebtedness; and are structurally subordinated to all existing and future indebtedness and liabilities of the company’s subsidiaries.
In accounting for the issuance of the Convertible Notes, the companyCompany separated the Convertible Notes into liability and equity components. The carrying amount ofcomponents and the liability component was calculated by measuring the fair value of a similar liability that does not have an associated convertible feature. The carrying amount of the equity component representing the conversion option, which does not meet the criteria for separate accounting as a derivative as it is indexed to the company's own stock, was determined by deducting the fair value of the liability component from the par value of the Convertible Notes. The difference between the principal amount of the Convertible Notes and the liability component represents the debt discount, which is recorded as a direct deduction from the related debt liability in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheetsdiscount and amortized to interest expense using the effective interest method over the termexpense. As a result of the adoption of ASU 2020-06, the Convertible Notes. Notes are accounted for as a single liability and therefore the company no longer recognized any amortization of debt discounts as interest expense. The annual effective interest rate of the Convertible Notes following adoption of ASU 2020-06 is 4.7%1.5%. The equity component of the Convertible Notes of approximately $105.0 million is included in the additional paid-in capital in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets and is not remeasured as long as it continues to meet the conditions for equity classification. The company allocated transaction costs related to the Convertible Notes using the same proportions as the proceeds from the Convertible Notes. Transaction costs attributable to the liability component were recorded as a direct deduction from the related debt liability in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets and amortized to interest expense over the term of the Convertible Notes, and transaction costs attributable to the equity component were netted with the equity component in shareholders' equity.
22


The Convertible Notes were issued pursuant to the Indenture and bear interest semi-annually in arrears at a rate of 1.00% per annum on March 1 and September 1 of each year. The Convertible Notes are convertible based upon an initial conversion rate of 7.7746 shares of the company's common stock per $1,000 principal amount of the Convertible Notes, which is equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately $128.62 per share of the company's common stock. The conversion rate will be subject to adjustment upon occurrence of certain specified events in accordance with the Indenture, but will not be adjusted for accrued and unpaid interest. Additionally, in the event of a Fundamental Change (as defined in the Indenture), holders of the Convertible Notes may require the company to repurchase all or a portion of their Convertible Notes at a price equal to 100.0% of the principal amount of Convertible Notes, plus any accrued and unpaid interest to, but excluding, the repurchase date. Upon conversion, the company will pay cash up to the aggregate principal amount of the Convertible Notes to be converted and pay or deliver, as the case may be, cash, shares of common stock or a combination of cash and shares of common stock, at the company's election, in respect of the remainder, if any, of the company's conversion obligation in excess of the aggregate principal amount of the notes being converted.
The Convertible Notes will mature on September 1, 2025 unless they are redeemed, repurchased or converted prior to such date in accordance with their terms. Prior to the close of business on the business day immediately preceding June 1, 2025, the notes will be convertible at the option of the holders only under the following circumstances: (1) during any fiscal quarter commencing after the fiscal quarter ending on January 2, 2021 (and only during such fiscal quarter), if the last reported sale price of the company's common stock for at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive) during a period of 30 consecutive trading days ending on, and including, the last trading day of the immediately preceding calendar quarter is greater than or equal to 130.0% of the conversion price for the Convertible Notes on each applicable trading day; (2) during the five business day period after any ten consecutive trading day period in which the trading price per $1,000 principal amount of the Convertible Notes for each trading day of that ten consecutive trading day period was less than 98.0% of the product of the last reported sale price of the company's common stock and the conversion rate of the Convertible Notes on each such trading day; (3) if the company calls such Convertible Notes for redemption; or (4) upon the occurrence of specified corporate events. On or after June 1, 2025, the notes will be convertible at the option of the holders at any time until the close of business on the second scheduled trading day immediately preceding the maturity date. Holders of the Convertible Notes who convert in connection with a Make-Whole Fundamental Change or during a Redemption Period (each as defined in the Indenture) will be, under certain circumstances, entitled to an increase in the conversion rate.

The company may settle the conversions of the Convertible Notes in cash, shares of the company's common stock or any combination thereof at its election. The number of shares of the company's common stock issuable at the conversion price of $128.62 per share is expected to be 5.8 million shares. However, the Capped Call Transactions are expected generally to reduce the potential dilutionAs of the company's common stock upon any conversion of Convertible Notes and/or offset the cash payments the company is required to make in excess of the principal amount of the Notes. Under the Capped Call Transactions, the number of shares of common stock issuable at the conversion price of $207.93 is expected to be 3.6 million shares.

The Convertible Notes were not convertible during the nine months period ended September 26, 2020 and noneApril 3, 2021, there have been convertedno conversions to date. Also givenFor the three months ended April 3, 2021, the average market price of the company's common stock has not exceeded the exercise price for the three and nine months periods ended September 26, 2020, there is no impact to the diluted earnings per share.

The company may redeem all or any portion of the Convertible Notes at its option, on or after September 5, 2023 and prior to the 41st scheduled trading day immediately preceding the maturity date, at a redemption price equal to 100.0% of the principal amount of the Convertible Notesresulting in 744,334 diluted common stock equivalents to be redeemed, plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon, ifincluded in the last reported sales price ofdiluted net earnings per share for the company's common stock has been at least 130.0% of the conversion price then in effect for at least 20 trading days (whether or not consecutive) during any 30 consecutive trading day period (including the last trading day of such period) ending on, and including, the trading day immediately preceding the date on which the company provides written notice of redemption.

period.
The Indenture includes customary terms and covenants, including certain events of default after which the Convertible Notes may become due and payable immediately.

2317


Capped Call Transactions
In conjunction with the pricing of the Convertible Notes, the company entered into privately negotiated capped call transactions in the aggregate amount of $104.7 million ("Capped Call Transactions"). The Capped Call Transactions are expected generally to reduce the potential dilution and/or offset the cash payments the company is required to make in excess of the principal amount of the Convertible Notes upon conversion of the Convertible Notes in the event that the market price per share of the company's common stock is greater than the strike price of the Capped Call Transactions (which initially corresponds to the initial conversion price of the Convertible Notes and is subject to certain adjustments under the terms of the Capped Call Transactions), with such reduction and/or offset subject to a cap based on the cap price of the Capped Call Transactions. TheUnder the Capped Call Transactions, have an initial capthe number of shares of common stock issuable at the conversion price of $207.93 per shareis expected to be 3.6 million shares. As of the company's common stock.April 3, 2021, there have been no conversions to date. The Capped Call Transactions cover initially, the number of shares of the company's common stock underlying the Convertible Notes, subject to anti-dilution adjustments substantially similar to those applicable to the Convertible Notes.

The Capped Call Transactions are separate transactions entered into by the company with the capped call counterparties, and are not part of the terms of the Convertible Notes and will not affect any holder's right under the Convertible Notes. Holders of the Convertible Notes will not have any rights with respect to the Capped Call Transactions. The Capped Call Transactions do not meet the criteria for separate accounting as a derivative as they are indexed to the company's stock. The premiums paid of the Capped Call Transactions have been included as a net reduction to additional paid-in capital with stockholders' equity.

13)    Financial Instruments
ASC 815 “Derivatives and Hedging” requires an entity to recognize all derivatives as either assets or liabilities and measure those instruments at fair value. Derivatives that do not qualify as a hedge must be adjusted to fair value in earnings. If a derivative does qualify as a hedge under ASC 815, changes in the fair value will either be offset against the change in the fair value of the hedged assets, liabilities or firm commitments or recognized in other accumulated comprehensive income until the hedged item is recognized in earnings.
Foreign Exchange: The company uses foreign currency forward, foreign exchange swaps and option purchase and sales contracts to hedge its exposure to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. The company’s primary hedging activities are to mitigate its exposure to changes in exchange rates on intercompany and third party trade receivables and payables. The company does not currently enter into derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes. In managing its foreign currency exposures, the company identifies and aggregates naturally occurring offsetting positions and then hedges residual balance sheet exposures. The fair value of the forward and option contracts was a gainloss of $0.2$0.7 million at the end of the thirdfirst quarter of 2020.2021.
Interest Rate: The company has entered into interest rate swaps to fix the interest rate applicable to certain of its variable-rate debt. The agreements swap one-month LIBOR for fixed rates. The company has designated these swaps as cash flow hedges and all changes in fair value of the swaps are recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income. As of September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, the fair value of these instruments was a liability of $57.8$34.4 million. The change in fair value of these swap agreements in the first ninethree months of 20202021 was a lossgain of $25.2$12.4 million, net of taxes.
The following table summarizes the company’s fair value of interest rate swaps (in thousands):
Condensed Consolidated
Balance Sheet Presentation
Sep 26, 2020Dec 28, 2019Condensed Consolidated
Balance Sheet Presentation
Apr 3, 2021Jan 2, 2021
Fair valueFair valueOther assets$$1,830 Fair valueOther assets$3,014 $
Fair valueFair valueAccrued expenses$15,282 $Fair valueAccrued expenses$10,672 $14,075 
Fair valueFair valueOther non-current liabilities$42,538 $25,120 Fair valueOther non-current liabilities$26,696 $37,018 
2418


The impact on earnings from interest rate swaps was as follows (in thousands):
 Three Months EndedNine Months Ended  Three Months Ended
Presentation of Gain/(loss)Sep 26, 2020Sep 28, 2019Sep 26, 2020Sep 28, 2019 Presentation of Gain/(loss)Apr 3, 2021Mar 28, 2020
Gain/(loss) recognized in accumulated other comprehensive incomeGain/(loss) recognized in accumulated other comprehensive incomeOther comprehensive income$(1,545)$(7,114)$(44,949)$(37,090)Gain/(loss) recognized in accumulated other comprehensive incomeOther comprehensive income$11,716 $(35,785)
Gain/(loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (effective portion)Gain/(loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (effective portion)Interest expense$(5,158)$403 $(10,419)$1,953 Gain/(loss) reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (effective portion)Interest expense$(5,023)$(1,267)
Interest rate swaps are subject to default risk to the extent the counterparties are unable to satisfy their settlement obligations under the interest rate swap agreements. The company reviews the credit profile of the financial institutions that are counterparties to such swap agreements and assesses their creditworthiness prior to entering into the interest rate swap agreements and throughout the term. The interest rate swap agreements typically contain provisions that allow the counterparty to require early settlement in the event that the company becomes insolvent or is unable to maintain compliance with its covenants under its existing debt agreements.
19

25


14)    Segment Information
The company operates in three reportable operating segments defined by management reporting structure and operating activities.
The Commercial Foodservice Equipment Group manufactures, sells, and distributes foodservice equipment for the restaurant and institutional kitchen industry. This business segment has manufacturing facilities in Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Washington, Australia, Canada, China, Denmark, Estonia, Italy, Mexico, the Philippines, Poland, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom. Principal product lines of this group include conveyor ovens, combi-ovens, convection ovens, baking ovens, proofing ovens, deck ovens, speed cooking ovens, hydrovection ovens, ranges, fryers, rethermalizers, steam cooking equipment, food warming equipment, catering equipment, heated cabinets, charbroilers, ventless cooking systems, kitchen ventilation, induction cooking equipment, countertop cooking equipment, toasters, griddles, charcoal grills, professional mixers, stainless steel fabrication, custom millwork, professional refrigerators, blast chillers, coldrooms, ice machines, freezers, and soft serve ice cream equipment, coffee and beverage dispensing equipment.equipment, home and professional craft brewing equipment, fry dispensers, bottle filling and canning equipment, and IoT solutions. These products are sold and marketed under the brand names: Anets, APW Wyott, Bakers Pride, Beech, BKI, Blodgett, Blodgett Combi, Blodgett Range, Bloomfield, Britannia, CTX, Carter-Hoffmann, Celfrost, Concordia, CookTek, Crown, CTX, Desmon, Deutsche Beverage, Doyon, Eswood, EVO, Firex, Follett, Frifri, Giga, Globe, Goldstein, Holman, Houno, IMC, Induc, Ink Kegs, Inline Filling Systems, Jade, JoeTap, Josper, L2F, Lang, Lincat, MagiKitch’n, Market Forge, Marsal, Meheen, Middleby Marshall, MPC, Nieco, Nu-Vu, PerfectFry, Pitco, QualServ, RAM, SiteSage, Southbend, Ss Brewtech, Star, Starline, Sveba Dahlen, Ss Brewtech, Synesso, Tank, Taylor, Thor, Toastmaster, TurboChef, Ultrafryer, Varimixer, Wells, Wild Goose and Wunder-Bar.
The Food Processing Equipment Group manufactures preparation, cooking, packaging food handling and food safety equipment for the food processing industry. This business segment has manufacturing operations in Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, Denmark, France, Germany, India, Italy, and the United Kingdom. Principal product lines of this group include batch ovens, baking ovens, proofing ovens, conveyor belt ovens, continuous processing ovens, frying systems and automated thermal processing systems, grinders, slicers, reduction and emulsion systems, mixers, blenders, formers, battering equipment, breading equipment, seeding equipment, water cutting systems, food presses, food suspension equipment, filling and depositing solutions, forming equipment, automated loading and unloading systems, food safety, food handling, freezing, defrosting and packaging equipment. These products are sold and marketed under the brand names: Alkar, Armor Inox, Auto-Bake, Baker Thermal Solutions, Burford, Cozzini, CVP Systems,CV-Tek, Danfotech, Deutsche Process, Drake, Emico, Glimek, Hinds-Bock, Maurer-Atmos, MP Equipment, M-TEK, Pacpro,Pacproinc, RapidPak, Scanico, Spooner Vicars, Stewart Systems, Thurne and Ve.Ma.C.
The Residential Kitchen Equipment Group manufactures, sells and distributes kitchen equipment for the residential market. This business segment has manufacturing facilities in California, Michigan, Mississippi, Oregon, Wisconsin, France Ireland, Romania and the United Kingdom. Principal product lines of this group are ranges, cookers, stoves, cooktops, microwaves, ovens, refrigerators, dishwashers, microwaves, cooktops,undercounter refrigeration, wine coolers,cellars, ice machines, ventilation equipment and outdoor equipment. These products are sold and marketed under the brand names: AGA, AGA Cookshop, Brava, Brigade, EVO, Fired Earth, Heartland, La Cornue, Leisure Sinks, Lynx, Marvel, Mercury, Rangemaster, Rayburn, Redfyre, Sedona, Stanley, TurboChef, U-Line and Viking.
The accounting policies of the segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies. The chief operating decision maker evaluates individual segment performance based on operating income.
Net Sales Summary
(dollars in thousands)
Three Months EndedNine Months Ended Three Months Ended
Sep 26, 2020Sep 28, 2019Sep 26, 2020Sep 28, 2019 Apr 3, 2021Mar 28, 2020
SalesPercentSalesPercentSalesPercentSalesPercent SalesPercentSalesPercent
Business Segments:Business Segments:    Business Segments:
Commercial FoodserviceCommercial Foodservice$371,223 58.5 %$500,990 69.2 %$1,081,847 60.6 %$1,471,800 67.8 %Commercial Foodservice$481,155 63.5 %$443,124 65.4 %
Food ProcessingFood Processing110,648 17.4 89,147 12.3 316,477 17.7 279,474 12.9 Food Processing112,494 14.8 104,266 15.4 
Residential KitchenResidential Kitchen152,654 24.1 133,877 18.5 385,637 21.7 420,546 19.3 Residential Kitchen164,409 21.7 130,069 19.2 
Total Total$634,525 100.0 %$724,014 100.0 %$1,783,961 100.0 %$2,171,820 100.0 % Total$758,058 100.0 %$677,459 100.0 %
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The following table summarizes the results of operations for the company's business segments (in thousands):
Commercial
Foodservice
Food ProcessingResidential Kitchen
Corporate
and Other (1)
Total Commercial
 Foodservice
Food ProcessingResidential Kitchen
Corporate
and Other (1)
Total
Three Months Ended September 26, 2020    
Three Months Ended April 3, 2021Three Months Ended April 3, 2021
Net salesNet sales$371,223 $110,648 $152,654 $$634,525 Net sales$481,155 $112,494 $164,409 $$758,058 
Income (loss) from operations (2)(3)
57,483 22,860 22,626 (16,297)86,672 
Income (loss) from operations (2, 3, 4)
Income (loss) from operations (2, 3, 4)
96,316 19,662 29,856 (24,661)121,173 
Depreciation expenseDepreciation expense5,360 1,480 2,965 9,805 Depreciation expense5,793 1,315 2,774 255 10,137 
Amortization expense (4)
12,923 1,794 2,170 692 17,579 
Net capital expenditures5,279 692 794 299 7,064 
Nine Months Ended September 26, 2020
Net sales$1,081,847 $316,477 $385,637 $$1,783,961 
Income (loss) from operations (2)(3)
173,064 57,801 41,860 (41,521)231,204 
Depreciation expense15,567 4,179 8,742 15 28,503 
Amortization expense (4)
38,257 5,494 7,627 1,713 53,091 
Amortization expense (5)
Amortization expense (5)
15,204 1,843 1,772 1,476 20,295 
Net capital expendituresNet capital expenditures12,771 3,115 4,089 420 20,395 Net capital expenditures5,195 928 2,256 346 8,725 
Total assetsTotal assets$3,155,360 $628,156 $1,149,550 $87,118 $5,020,184 Total assets$3,283,354 $632,746 $1,213,045 $160,768 $5,289,913 
Three Months Ended September 28, 2019    
Three Months Ended March 28, 2020Three Months Ended March 28, 2020
Net salesNet sales$500,990 $89,147 $133,877 $$724,014 Net sales$443,124 $104,266 $130,069 $$677,459 
Income (loss) from operations (2)(3)
105,099 13,349 17,850 (14,953)121,345 
Income (loss) from operations (2, 3)
Income (loss) from operations (2, 3)
88,607 15,358 12,708 (11,259)105,414 
Depreciation expenseDepreciation expense5,413 1,158 2,897 9,476 Depreciation expense4,900 1,336 2,983 11 9,230 
Amortization expense (4)
12,230 2,616 2,413 402 17,661 
Net capital expenditures5,852 3,212 3,125 12,189 
Nine Months Ended September 28, 2019
Net sales$1,471,800 $279,474 $420,546 $$2,171,820 
Income (loss) from operations (2)(3)
313,482 44,477 57,220 (53,166)362,013 
Depreciation expense15,714 3,498 8,697 105 28,014 
Amortization expense (4)
34,519 6,223 7,308 1,208 49,258 
Amortization expense (5)
Amortization expense (5)
12,440 1,700 2,720 509 17,369 
Net capital expendituresNet capital expenditures19,065 5,289 7,061 2,404 33,819 Net capital expenditures4,686 1,829 2,545 121 9,181 
Total assetsTotal assets$3,162,315 $606,186 $1,129,935 $30,092 $4,928,528 Total assets$3,232,632 $626,907 $1,145,943 $272,497 $5,277,979 

(1)Includes corporate and other general company assets and operations.
(2)Non-operating expenses are not allocated to the operating segments. Non-operating expenses consist of interest expense and deferred financing amortization, foreign exchange gains and losses and other income and expense items outside of income from operations.
(3)Restructuring expenses are allocated in operating income by segment. See note 16 for further details.
(4)Gain on sale of plant is included in Commercial Foodservice.
(5)Includes amortization of deferred financing costs and Convertible Notes issuance costs.
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Geographic Information
Long-lived assets, not including goodwill and other intangibles (in thousands):
Sep 26, 2020Sep 28, 2019 Apr 3, 2021Mar 28, 2020
United States and CanadaUnited States and Canada$321,159 $309,117 United States and Canada$330,080 $316,087 
AsiaAsia22,857 21,668 Asia27,104 21,751 
Europe and Middle EastEurope and Middle East152,914 139,486 Europe and Middle East176,526 157,035 
Latin AmericaLatin America6,111 8,030 Latin America6,155 5,518 
Total internationalTotal international$181,882 $169,184 Total international$209,785 $184,304 
$503,041 $478,301  $539,865 $500,391 
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15)    Employee Retirement Plans
(a)Pension Plans

U.S. Plans:

The company maintains a non-contributory defined benefit plan for its union employees at the Elgin, Illinois facility. Benefits are determined based upon retirement age and years of service with the company. This defined benefit plan was frozen on April 30, 2002, and no further benefits accrue to the participants beyond this date. Plan participants will receive or continue to receive payments for benefits earned on or prior to April 30, 2002 upon reaching retirement age.
 
The company maintains a non-contributory defined benefit plan for its employees at the Smithville, Tennessee facility. Benefits are determined based upon retirement age and years of service with the company. This defined benefit plan was frozen on April 1, 2008, and no further benefits accrue to the participants beyond this date. Plan participants will receive or continue to receive payments for benefits earned on or prior to April 1, 2008 upon reaching retirement age.
 
The company also maintains a retirement benefit agreement with its former Chairman ("Chairman Plan"). The retirement benefits are based upon a percentage of the former Chairman’s final base salary.

Non-U.S. Plans:

The company maintains a defined benefit plan for its employees at the Wrexham, the United Kingdom facility. Benefits are determined based upon retirement age and years of service with the company. This defined benefit plan was frozen on April 30, 2010 prior to Middleby’s acquisition of the company. Noand no further benefits accrue to the participants beyond this date. Plan participants will receive or continue to receive payments for benefits earned on or prior to April 30, 2010 upon reaching retirement age.

The company maintains several pension plans related to AGA and its subsidiaries (collectively, the "AGA Group"), the most significant being the Aga Rangemaster Group Pension Scheme in the United Kingdom.  Membership in the plan on a defined benefit basis of pension provision was closed to new entrants in 2001.The2001.  The plan became open to new entrants on a defined contribution basis of pension provision in 2002, but was generally closed to new entrants on this basis during 2014. In December 2020, it was agreed that the Group Pension Scheme will be closed to future pension accruals effective April 5, 2021. 

The other, much smaller, defined benefit pension plans operating within the AGA Group cover employees in France and the United Kingdom. All pension plan assets are held in separate trust funds although the net defined benefit pension obligations are included in the company's consolidated balance sheet.

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The following table summarizes the company's net periodic pension benefit related to the AGA Group pension plans (in thousands):
Three Months EndedNine Months EndedThree Months Ended
Sep 26, 2020Sep 28, 2019Sep 26, 2020Sep 28, 2019Apr 3, 2021Mar 28, 2020
Net Periodic Pension Benefit:Net Periodic Pension Benefit:  Net Periodic Pension Benefit:
Service costService cost$649 $593 $1,918 $1,839 Service cost$194 $645 
Interest costInterest cost6,456 7,995 19,086 24,776 Interest cost4,290 6,418 
Expected return on assetsExpected return on assets(18,089)(16,118)(53,476)(49,948)Expected return on assets(19,531)(17,982)
Amortization of net loss (gain)Amortization of net loss (gain)842 149 2,489 462 Amortization of net loss (gain)3,152 837 
Amortization of prior service cost (credit)Amortization of prior service cost (credit)642 614 1,897 1,904 Amortization of prior service cost (credit)716 638 
Curtailment loss (gain)185 573 
$(9,500)$(6,582)$(28,086)$(20,394)
$(11,179)$(9,444)

The pension costs for all other plans of the company were not material during the period. The service cost component is recognized within Selling, general and administrative expenses and the non-operating components of pension benefit are included within Net periodic pension benefit (other than service cost) in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income.

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(b)Defined Contribution Plans

The company maintains 2 separate defined contribution savings plans covering all employees in the United States. These two plans separately cover the union employees at the Elgin, Illinois facility and all other remaining union and non-union employees in the United States. The company also maintains defined contribution plans for its United Kingdom based employees.

16)    Restructuring
Commercial Foodservice Equipment Group

During the fiscal years 2020 and 2019, the company undertook cost reduction initiatives related to the Commercial Foodservice Equipment Group including headcount reductions and facility consolidations. These actions resulted in an additional chargeexpenses of $0.4 million and $0.5 million in the three months ended April 3, 2021 and March 28, 2020. There were no additional expenses incurred in 2020, with respect to such cost reduction initiatives taken during fiscal 2019. These expenses are reflected in restructuring expenses in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. At September 26, 2020, the restructuring obligationsrespectively, primarily for these initiatives were completed with no future expenses expected.

During the second and third quarter of fiscal 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the company began cost reduction initiatives primarilyseverance related to headcount reductions and facility consolidations within the Commercial Foodservice Equipment Group. These actions resulted in a charge of $7.0 million and $8.6 million, in the three and nine months ended September 26, 2020, respectively.consolidations. These expenses are reflected in restructuring expenses in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income. The company estimates that theserealization of cost savings from the restructuring initiatives will resultbegan in future cost2020 with an expected annual savings of approximately $20.0 million annually.million. At September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, the restructuring obligations accrued for these initiatives is $5.4 millionare immaterial and shouldwill substantially be completedcomplete by the end of fiscal 2020.2021.

The restructuring expenses for the other segments of the company were not material during the period.

17)    Share Repurchases
    On November 7, 2017, the company's Board of Directors approved a stock repurchase program. This program authorizes the company to repurchase in the aggregate up to 2,500,000 shares of its outstanding common stock in open market purchase transactions. For the nine months ended September 26, 2020, the company repurchased 896,965 shares of its common stock under the program for $69.7 million, including applicable commissions, which represented an average price of $77.70. As of September 26, 2020, 1,023,165 shares had been purchased under the 2017 stock repurchase program. 

The company also treats shares withheld for tax purposes on behalf of employees in connection with the vesting of restricted share grants as common stock repurchases because they reduce the number of shares that would have been issued upon vesting. For the ninethree months ended September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, the company repurchased 108,47310,473 shares of its common stock that were surrendered to the company for withholding taxes related to restricted stock vestings for $7.5$1.8 million. These withheld shares are not considered common stock repurchases under the authorized common stock repurchase plan and accordingly are not included in the common stock repurchase totals disclosed below.  

In November 2017, the company's Board of Directors approved a stock repurchase program authorizing the company to repurchase in the aggregate up to 2,500,000 shares of its outstanding common stock. During 2020, the company repurchased 896,965 shares of its common stock under the program for $69.7 million, including applicable commissions, which represented an average price of $77.70. As of April 3, 2021, 1,023,165 shares had been purchased under the 2017 stock repurchase program and 1,476,835 remain authorized for repurchase.

2923


18)    Subsequent Event

On April 20, 2021, the company entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger ("Merger Agreement") with Welbilt, Inc.("Welbilt"), a Delaware corporation, Middleby Marshall, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of the company and Mosaic Merger Sub, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of the company (“Merger Sub”), pursuant to which, at the closing, Merger Sub will merge with and into Welbilt, with Welbilt surviving as an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of the company (“Merger”). Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, at the effective time of the Merger (“Effective Time”), each share of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of Welbilt (“Welbilt Common Stock”) issued and outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time (other than shares of Welbilt common stock held by Welbilt as treasury stock or held, directly or indirectly, by the company) will be converted into the right to receive 0.1240 shares of validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, of Middleby (“Middleby Common Stock”) (the ratio of one share of Welbilt Common Stock for 0.1240 shares of Middleby Common Stock, the “Exchange Ratio”). Upon the closing of the Merger, Middleby stockholders will own approximately 76% and Welbilt stockholders will own approximately 24% of the combined company.
Following the closing of the Merger, the Middleby Common Stock will continue to be listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market (“NASDAQ”). Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, at the Effective Time, Welbilt’s equity-based compensation plan maintained for employees of Welbilt will be assumed by Middleby and (i) all outstanding options to purchase Welbilt Common Stock will be converted into options to purchase shares of Middleby Common Stock, (ii) all outstanding restricted stock awards and restricted stock unit awards with respect to Welbilt Common Stock will be converted into corresponding restricted stock awards and restricted stock unit awards with respect to shares of Middleby Common Stock, and (iii) all outstanding performance stock unit awards with respect to Welbilt Common Stock will be converted into restricted stock unit awards with respect to shares of Middleby Common Stock, with performance criteria deemed satisfied based on the achievement levels set forth in the Merger Agreement, in each case, based on the Exchange Ratio and with respect to such converted stock options, the exercise price of which shall be equal to the exercise price of such option in effect immediately prior to the Effective Time, divided by the Exchange Ratio, rounded up to the nearest whole cent. No fractional shares of Middleby Common Stock will be issued in connection with the Merger, and holders of shares of Welbilt Common Stock will receive cash in lieu of any such fractional shares.
The respective boards of directors of Middleby and Welbilt have unanimously approved the Merger Agreement, and the board of directors of Middleby has agreed to recommend that Middleby’s stockholders approve the issuance of the shares of Middleby Common Stock in connection with the Merger, as required by the listing standards of NASDAQ. In addition, the board of directors of Welbilt has agreed to recommend that Welbilt’s stockholders adopt the Merger Agreement.
The completion of the Merger is subject to the satisfaction or waiver of customary closing conditions, including (i) approval of the issuance of Middleby Common Stock in connection with the Merger by Middleby’s stockholders, (ii) approval for listing of the Middleby Common Stock to be issued in connection with the Merger on NASDAQ, (iii) the effectiveness of a registration statement on Form S-4 with respect to the Middleby Common Stock to be issued in connection with the Merger, (iv) approval and adoption of the Merger Agreement by Welbilt’s stockholders, (v) expiration or termination of any waiting period under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended ("HSR Act"), and receipt of applicable approvals under certain foreign competition, antitrust or merger control laws, (vi) there being no law or order prohibiting consummation of the Merger, (vii) subject to specified materiality standards, the accuracy of the representations and warranties of the parties, (viii) compliance by the parties in all material respects with their respective covenants, (ix) the absence of a material adverse effect with respect to each of Middleby and Welbilt, and (x) the delivery of an officer’s closing certificate by both parties. The completion of the Merger is not conditioned on receipt of financing by Middleby.



24


Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

InformationalSpecial Notes Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
 
This report contains forward-looking statements subject to the safe harbor created by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The company cautions readers that these projections are based upon future results or events and are highly dependent upon a variety of important factors which could cause such results or events to differ materially from any forward-looking statements which may be deemed to have been made in this report, or which are otherwise made by or on behalf of the company. Such factors include, but are not limited to, the impact of COVID-19 pandemic and the response of governments, businesses and other third parties; volatility in earnings resulting from goodwill impairment losses which may occur irregularly and in varying amounts; variability in financing costs; quarterly variations in operating results; dependence on key customers; international exposure; foreign exchange and political risks affecting international sales; ability to protect trademarks, copyrights and other intellectual property; changing market conditions; the impact of competitive products and pricing; the timely development and market acceptance of the company’s products; the availability and cost of raw materials; and other risks detailed herein and from time-to-time in the company’s SEC filings, including the company’s 20192020 Annual Report on Form 10-K. All forward-looking statements are expressly qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. The forward-looking statements included in this report are made only as of the date hereof and, except as required by federal securities laws and rules and regulations of the SEC, the company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

DuringMerger with Welbilt, Inc.

On April 20, 2021, the nine months period ended September 26, 2020,company entered into the company's business experienced significant disruptions dueMerger Agreement, pursuant to which, at the closing, Merger Sub will merge with and into Welbilt, with Welbilt surviving as an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of the company, as discussed in Note 18, Subsequent Event, in the Notes to the COVID-19 pandemic. In response,Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, at the Effective Time, each share of Welbilt Common Stock will be converted into the right to receive 0.1240 shares of Middleby Common Stock. Upon the closing of the Merger, Middleby stockholders will own approximately 76% and Welbilt stockholders will own approximately 24% of the combined company. The Merger Agreement was unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both the company implemented swift actionsand Welbilt, and is subject to protect our employees, ensure uninterrupted service to our customerssatisfaction of customary closing conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement, including receipt of required regulatory approvals and aggressively adjust our business and cost structure for a decline in revenues.approval by the stockholders of each company. The company's actions include, but arecompletion of the Merger is not limited to the following:conditioned on receipt of financing by Middleby.

Employee Safety - Implemented companywide procedures including enhanced workplace sanitation, travel discontinuation, social distancing, staggered shifts and established work-at-home protocols for non-production employees.

Customer Support - Ensured continued access to customer support, technical service and uninterrupted shipping of service parts and finished goods. Production continued to meet customer demand with minimal disruptions to address employee safety precautions.

Cost and Profitability Initiatives - Instituted aggressive reduction of all controllable and discretionary costs. This included the adjustment of global office and production workforces in response to near-term reduced demand levels and reduced cash compensation to executives. Increased focus on prioritizing product and customers with highest profitability.

Supply Chain - Established a task force to identify and mitigate supply chain disruption and ensure continuity of business operations and customer support.

Liquidity and Cash Flow - Reduced capital expenditures for the remainder of year, enhanced working capital reduction initiatives to drive inventory efficiency, and suspended the Middleby share repurchase program. Maintained investments in key strategic initiatives. Improved our capital structure through the issuance of Convertible Notes and amended our Credit Facility to provide additional flexibility.

COVID-19 Product Introductions - Developed and launched products addressing COVID-19 needs, including sterilization units for N95 masks, mobile and touchless handwashing stations, plexiglass safety shields for restaurants and retail locations, mobile foodservice stations and hand and cleaning sanitizer produced at our most recent acquired company Deutsche.

The company believes that these aggressive cost reduction and liquidity preservation actions serve to position us appropriately and provide additional operating and financial flexibility to successfully navigate this uncertain environment.

30


Net Sales Summary
(dollars in thousands)
 
Three Months EndedNine Months Ended Three Months Ended
Sep 26, 2020Sep 28, 2019Sep 26, 2020Sep 28, 2019 Apr 3, 2021Mar 28, 2020
SalesPercentSalesPercentSalesPercentSalesPercent SalesPercentSalesPercent
Business Segments:Business Segments:    Business Segments:
Commercial FoodserviceCommercial Foodservice$371,223 58.5 %$500,990 69.2 %$1,081,847 60.6 %$1,471,800 67.8 %Commercial Foodservice$481,155 63.5 %$443,124 65.4 %
Food ProcessingFood Processing110,648 17.4 89,147 12.3 316,477 17.7 279,474 12.9 Food Processing112,494 14.8 104,266 15.4 
Residential KitchenResidential Kitchen152,654 24.1 133,877 18.5 385,637 21.7 420,546 19.3 Residential Kitchen164,409 21.7 130,069 19.2 
Total Total$634,525 100.0 %$724,014 100.0 %$1,783,961 100.0 %$2,171,820 100.0 % Total$758,058 100.0 %$677,459 100.0 %



25


Results of Operations
 The following table sets forth certain consolidated statements of earnings items as a percentage of net sales for the periods:
 
Three Months EndedNine Months Ended Three Months Ended
Sep 26, 2020Sep 28, 2019Sep 26, 2020Sep 28, 2019 Apr 3, 2021Mar 28, 2020
Net salesNet sales100.0 %100.0 %100.0 %100.0 %Net sales100.0 %100.0 %
Cost of salesCost of sales64.9 62.7 64.9 62.5 Cost of sales63.6 63.1 
Gross profitGross profit35.1 37.3 35.1 37.5 Gross profit36.4 36.9 
Selling, general and administrative expensesSelling, general and administrative expenses20.3 20.0 21.6 20.5 Selling, general and administrative expenses20.4 21.2 
RestructuringRestructuring1.1 0.6 0.6 0.3 Restructuring0.1 0.1 
Income from operationsIncome from operations13.7 16.7 12.9 16.7 Income from operations16.0 15.6 
Interest expense and deferred financing amortization, netInterest expense and deferred financing amortization, net2.9 2.9 3.1 2.9 Interest expense and deferred financing amortization, net2.1 2.4 
Net periodic pension benefit (other than service costs)Net periodic pension benefit (other than service costs)(1.6)(1.0)(1.7)(1.0)Net periodic pension benefit (other than service costs)(1.5)(1.5)
Other (income) expense, netOther (income) expense, net— 0.2 0.2 — Other (income) expense, net(0.2)0.5 
Earnings before income taxesEarnings before income taxes12.4 14.6 11.3 14.8 Earnings before income taxes15.6 14.2 
Provision for income taxesProvision for income taxes2.9 3.3 2.6 3.6 Provision for income taxes3.8 3.3 
Net earningsNet earnings9.5 %11.3 %8.7 %11.2 %Net earnings11.8 %10.9 %

3126


Three Months Ended September 26, 2020April 3, 2021 as compared to Three Months Ended SeptemberMarch 28, 20192020
 
NET SALES. Net sales for the three months period ended September 26, 2020 decreasedApril 3, 2021 increased by $89.5$80.6 million or 12.4%11.9% to $634.5$758.1 million as compared to $724.0$677.5 million in the three months period ended SeptemberMarch 28, 2019.2020. Net sales increased by $8.0$18.6 million, or 1.1%2.7%, from the fiscal 2019 acquisitions of Pacproinc, Brava and Synesso and fiscal 2020 acquisitions of RAMDeutsche, Wild Goose, and Deutsche.United Foodservice Equipment Zhuhai. Excluding acquisitions and a disposition, net sales decreased $97.5increased $67.7 million, or 13.5%10.1%, from the prior year period. The impact of foreign exchange rates on foreign sales translated into U.S. Dollars for the three months period ended September 26, 2020April 3, 2021 increased net sales by approximately $4.6$11.1 million or 0.6%1.6%. Excluding the impact of foreign exchange, acquisitions and acquisitions,a disposition, sales decreased 14.1%increased 8.4% for the three months period ended September 26, 2020April 3, 2021 as compared to the prior year period, including a net sales decreaseincrease of 27.4%3.2% at the Commercial Foodservice Equipment Group, a net sales increase of 22.4%6.5% at the Food Processing Equipment Group and a net sales increase of 11.4%28.7% at the Residential Kitchen Equipment Group.
 
Net sales of the Commercial Foodservice Equipment Group decreasedincreased by $129.8$38.1 million, or 25.9%8.6%, to $371.2$481.2 million in the three months period ended September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, as compared to $501.0$443.1 million in the prior year period. Net sales from the acquisitions of Synesso, RAM,Deutsche, Wild Goose, and Deutsche,United Foodservice Equipment Zhuhai, which were acquired on November 27, 2019, January 13,March 2, 2020, December 7, 2020, and March 2,December 18, 2020, respectively, accounted for an increase of $5.9$18.6 million during the three months period ended September 26, 2020.April 3, 2021. Excluding the impact of acquisitions, net sales of the Commercial Foodservice Equipment Group decreased $135.7increased $19.5 million, or 27.1%4.4%, as compared to the prior year period. Excluding the impact of foreign exchange and acquisitions, net sales decreased $137.3increased $14.1 million or 27.4%3.2% at the Commercial Foodservice Equipment Group. Domestically, which is considered to be the U.S. and Canada, the company realized a sales decreaseincrease of $80.8$32.4 million, or 23.3%10.6%, to $265.8$338.9 million, as compared to $346.6$306.5 million in the prior year period. The declineincrease in domestic sales reflects the impacts of COVID-19.is related to improvements in market conditions and consumer demand. This includes an increase of $3.8$14.0 million from recent acquisitions. Excluding the acquisitions, the net decreaseincrease in domestic sales was $84.6$18.4 million, or 24.4%6.0%. International sales decreased $49.0increased $5.7 million, or 31.7%4.2%, to $105.4$142.3 million, as compared to $154.4$136.6 million in the prior year period. This includes an increase of $2.1$4.6 million from the recent acquisitions and an increase of $1.6$5.4 million related to the favorable impact of exchange rates. Excluding acquisitions and foreign exchange, the net sales decrease in international sales was $52.7$4.3 million, or 34.1%3.1%. The decrease in international revenues reflects continued impacts of COVID-19 on the outbreak of COVID-19.European and Latin America markets, partially offset by an increase in the Asian market.

Net sales of the Food Processing Equipment Group increased by $21.5$8.2 million, or 24.1%7.9%, to $110.6$112.5 million in the three months period ended September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, as compared to $89.1$104.3 million in the prior year period. Excluding the impact of foreign exchange, and the acquisition of Pacproinc, acquired July 16, 2019, net sales increased $20.0$6.8 million, or 22.4%6.5% at the Food Processing Equipment Group. Domestically, the company realized a sales increase of $24.9$6.8 million, or 43.5%9.3%, to $82.1$79.7 million, as compared to $57.2$72.9 million in the prior year period. The increase in domestic sales reflects growth across our product portfolio. Excluding the acquisition, the net increase in domesticprimarily driven by bakery products. International sales was $24.1increased $1.4 million, or 42.1%. International sales decreased $3.4 million, or 10.7%4.5%, to $28.5$32.8 million, as compared to $31.9$31.4 million in the prior year period. ExcludingThis includes an increase of $1.4 million related to the acquisition andfavorable impact of exchange rates. Excluding foreign exchange, the net sales decrease in international sales was $4.1 million, or 12.9%. The decrease in international revenues reflects declines in sales primarily due to the disruptive impact of COVID-19.were largely unchanged.

Net sales of the Residential Kitchen Equipment Group increased by $18.8$34.3 million, or 14.0%26.4%, to $152.7$164.4 million in the three months period ended September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, as compared to $133.9$130.1 million in the prior year period. Excluding the impact of foreign exchange and the acquisition of Brava, acquired November 19, 2019,a disposition, net sales increased $15.2$35.7 million, or 11.4%28.7% at the Residential Kitchen Equipment Group. Domestically, the company realized a sales increase of $10.4$23.5 million, or 12.0%27.6%, to $97.3$108.6 million, as compared to $86.9$85.1 million in the prior year period. The increase in domestic sales is primarily related to strong consumer demand for out premium appliance brands. Excluding the acquisition, the net increase in domestic sales was $9.1 million, or 10.5%. International sales increased $8.4$10.8 million, or 17.9%24.0%, to $55.4$55.8 million, as compared to $47.0$45.0 million in the prior year period. This includes a favorable impact of exchange rates of $2.3$4.3 million. Excluding foreign exchange and a disposition, the net sales increase in international sales was $6.1$12.2 million, or 13.0%, primarily due to31.0%. The increase in domestic and international sales reflects the strong demand for our premium appliance brands.

3227


GROSS PROFIT. Gross profit decreasedincreased to $222.7$275.9 million in the three months period ended September 26, 2020April 3, 2021 from $270.0$250.2 million in the prior year period, primarily reflecting lowerhigher sales volumes related to COVID-19, lower margins at recent acquisitions, offset by theimprovements in market conditions and consumer demand and favorable impact of foreign exchanges rates of $1.6$4.1 million. The gross margin rate was 37.3%36.9% in the three months period ended SeptemberMarch 28, 20192020 as compared to 35.1%36.4% in the current year period.
 
Gross profit at the Commercial Foodservice Equipment Group decreasedincreased by $59.6$9.9 million, or 31.9%6.0%, to $127.5$175.2 million in the three months period ended September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, as compared to $187.1$165.3 million in the prior year period. Gross profit from the acquisitions of Synesso, RAM,Deutsche, Wild Goose, and DeutscheUnited Foodservice Equipment Zhuhai increased gross profit by $1.9$5.7 million. Excluding acquisitions, gross profit decreasedincreased by $61.5$4.2 million primarily related to lowerhigher sales volumes. The impact of foreign exchange rates increased gross profit by approximately $0.6$2.0 million. The gross margin rate decreased to 34.3%36.4%, as compared to 37.3% in the prior year period. The gross margin rate, excluding acquisitions and the impact of foreign exchange, was 34.4%36.6%.

Gross profit at the Food Processing Equipment Group increased by $9.3$3.1 million, or 29.9%8.6%, to $40.4$39.2 million in the three months period ended September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, as compared to $31.1$36.1 million in the prior year period. Excluding the acquisition, gross profit increased by $9.1 million. The impact of foreign exchange rates increased gross profit by approximately $0.4$0.7 million. The gross profit margin rate increased to 36.5%34.8%, as compared to 34.9%34.6% in the prior year period primarily related to higher sales volumes and product mix. The gross margin rate, excluding the acquisition and the impact of foreign exchange, was 36.5%34.7%.

Gross profit at the Residential Kitchen Equipment Group increased by $3.4$12.0 million, or 6.5%24.6%, to $55.5$60.8 million in the three months period ended September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, as compared to $52.1$48.8 million in the prior year period. The impact of foreign exchange rates increased gross profit by approximately $0.6$1.4 million. The gross margin rate decreased to 36.3%37.0%, as compared to 38.9%37.5% in the prior year period. The gross margin rate, excluding the acquisition and the impact of foreign exchange, was 36.6%37.1%.

SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES. Combined selling, general and administrative expenses decreasedincreased from $144.5$143.9 million in the three months period ended SeptemberMarch 28, 20192020 to $128.8$155.0 million in the three months period ended September 26, 2020.April 3, 2021.  As a percentage of net sales, selling, general, and administrative expenses were 20.0%21.2% in the three months period ended SeptemberMarch 28, 2019,2020, as compared to 20.3%20.4% in the three months period ended September 26, 2020.April 3, 2021.

Selling, general and administrative expenses reflect increased costs of $5.5$5.4 million associated with acquisitions, including $0.9$2.7 million of intangible amortization expense. Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $6.8increased $13.2 million related to incentive and stock compensation costs, and commissions and $12.2offset by a decrease of $6.1 million due tofrom controllable cost reductions primarily within travel & entertainment and convention costs, professional fees and advertising.costs. Foreign exchange rates had an unfavorable impact of $1.0$2.1 million. The compensation decreases were partially offset by a $3.3 million increase related to higher non-cash share-based compensation.

RESTRUCTURING EXPENSES. Restructuring expenses were $4.2$0.8 million for the three months period ended SeptemberMarch 28, 20192020 and $7.3$0.8 million for the three months period ended September 26, 2020.April 3, 2021. Restructuring expenses in the current periodboth periods related primarily to headcount reductions and facility consolidations within the Commercial Foodservice Equipment Group. In the three months period ended September 28, 2019, restructuring expenses related primarily to headcount reductions and cost reduction initiatives related to facility consolidations within the Commercial Foodservice Equipment Group and Residential Kitchen Equipment Group.

NON-OPERATING EXPENSES. Interest and deferred financing amortization costs were $18.4$16.1 million in the three months period ended September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, as compared to $20.8$15.7 million in the prior year period, reflecting the reduction in the average interest rates under the Credit Facility and benefit from the Convertible Notes, offset by higher non-cash interest from the Convertible Notes.period. Net periodic pension benefit (other than service costs) increased $2.9$1.3 million to $10.1$11.4 million in the three months period ended September 26, 2020April 3, 2021 from $7.2$10.1 million in the prior year period, related to the decrease in discount rate used to calculate the interest cost and higher expected returns on assets driven by higher asset values at the end of fiscal 2019.cost. Other income was $0.3$1.7 million in the three months period ended September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, as compared to other expense of $1.4$3.3 million in the prior year period and consists mainly of foreign exchange gains and losses.

INCOME TAXES. A tax provision of $18.2$28.9 million, at an effective rate of 23.1%24.5%, was recorded during the three months period ended September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, as compared to $24.2$22.7 million at an effective rate of 22.8%, in the prior year period. The effective tax rates in 2020 and 2019 are higher than the federal tax rate of 21% primarily due to state taxes..


33


Nine Months Ended September 26, 2020 as compared to Nine Months Ended September 28, 2019
NET SALES. Net sales for the nine months period ended September 26, 2020 decreased by $387.8 million or 17.9% to $1,784.0 million as compared to $2,171.8 million in the nine months period ended September 28, 2019. Net sales increased by $61.8 million, or 2.8%, from the fiscal 2019 acquisitions of Cooking Solutions Group, Powerhouse, Ss Brewtech, Pacproinc, Brava and Synesso and fiscal 2020 acquisitions of RAM and Deutsche. Excluding acquisitions, net sales decreased $449.6 million, or 20.7%, from the prior year period. The impact of foreign exchange rates on foreign sales translated into U.S. Dollars for the nine months period ended September 26, 2020 decreased net sales by approximately $4.1 million or 0.2%. Excluding the impact of foreign exchange and acquisitions sales decreased 20.5% for nine months period ended September 26, 2020 as compared to the prior year period, including a net sales decrease of 29.2% at the Commercial Foodservice Equipment Group, a net sales increase of 8.7% at the Food Processing Equipment Group and a net sales decrease of 9.4% at the Residential Kitchen Equipment Group.
Net sales of the Commercial Foodservice Equipment Group decreased by $389.9 million, or 26.5%, to $1,081.9 million in the nine months period ended September 26, 2020, as compared to $1,471.8 million in the prior year period. Net sales from the acquisitions of Cooking Solutions Group, Powerhouse, Ss Brewtech, Synesso, RAM, and Deutsche, which were acquired on April 1, 2019, April 1, 2019, June 15, 2019, November 27, 2019, January 13, 2020, and March 2, 2020, respectively, accounted for an increase of $44.2 million during the nine months period ended September 26, 2020. Excluding the impact of acquisitions, net sales of the Commercial Foodservice Equipment Group decreased $434.1 million, or 29.5%, as compared to the prior year period. Excluding the impact of foreign exchange and acquisitions, net sales decreased $430.3 million or 29.2% at the Commercial Foodservice Equipment Group. Domestically, the company realized a sales decrease of $236.4 million, or 23.5%, to $768.2 million, as compared to $1,004.6 million in the prior year period. This includes an increase of $36.3 million from recent acquisitions. Excluding acquisitions, the net decrease in domestic sales was $272.7 million, or 27.1%. The decline in domestic sales reflects the impacts of COVID-19. International sales decreased $153.5 million, or 32.9%, to $313.7 million, as compared to $467.2 million in the prior year period. This includes an increase of $7.9 million from the recent acquisitions and a decrease of $3.8 million related to the unfavorable impact of exchange rates. Excluding acquisitions and foreign exchange, the net sales decrease in international sales was $157.6 million, or 33.7%. The decrease in international revenues reflects the impacts of COVID-19.

Net sales of the Food Processing Equipment Group increased by $37.0 million, or 13.2%, to $316.5 million in the nine months period ended September 26, 2020, as compared to $279.5 million in the prior year period. Excluding the impact of foreign exchange and the acquisition of Pacproinc, acquired July 16, 2019, net sales increased $24.3 million or 8.7% at the Food Processing Equipment Group. Domestically, the company realized a sales increase of $54.8 million, or 31.7%, to $227.8 million, as compared to $173.0 million in the prior year period. Excluding the acquisition, the net increase in domestic sales was $42.1 million, or 24.3%. The increase in domestic sales reflects growth in protein equipment sales. International sales decreased $17.8 million, or 16.7%, to $88.7 million, as compared to $106.5 million in the prior year period. Excluding the acquisition and foreign exchange, the net sales decrease in international sales was $17.8 million, or 16.7%. The decrease in international revenues reflects declines in sales primarily due to the disruptive impact of COVID-19.

Net sales of the Residential Kitchen Equipment Group decreased by $34.9 million or 8.3%, to $385.6 million in the nine months period ended September 26, 2020, as compared to $420.5 million in the prior year period. Excluding the impact of foreign exchange and the acquisition of Brava, acquired November 19, 2019, net sales decreased $39.5 million, or 9.4%, at the Residential Kitchen Equipment Group. Domestically, the company realized a sales decrease of $6.6 million, or 2.4%, to $264.1 million, as compared to $270.7 million in the prior year period. Excluding the impact of the acquisition, the net decrease in domestic sales was $10.6 million, or 3.9%. The decline in domestic sales reflects the impacts of COVID-19 through the first half of the year, partially offset by strong consumer demand in the three months period ended September 28, 2019. International sales decreased $28.3 million, or 18.9%, to $121.5 million, as compared to $149.8 million in the prior year period. Excluding foreign exchange, the net sales decrease in international sales was $28.9 million, or 19.3%. The decline of sales in the European market reflects the impacts of Brexit and the outbreak of COVID-19 partially offset by strong consumer demand in the three months period ended September 28, 2019.

34


GROSS PROFIT. Gross profit decreased to $626.1 million in the nine months period ended September 26, 2020 from $813.8 million in the prior year period, primarily related to lower sales volumes due to COVID-19 and the unfavorable impact of foreign exchanges rates of $0.7 million. The gross margin rate was 37.5% in the nine months period ended September 28, 2019 as compared to 35.1% in the current year period.
Gross profit at the Commercial Foodservice Equipment Group decreased by $176.0 million, or 31.8%, to $377.6 million in the nine months period ended September 26, 2020, as compared to $553.6 million in the prior year period. Gross profit from acquisitions accounted for $10.9 million of the increase in gross profit during the period. Excluding the recent acquisitions, gross profit decreased by $186.9 million on lower sales volumes. The impact of foreign exchange rates decreased gross profit by approximately $0.6 million. The gross margin rate decreased to 34.9%, as compared to 37.6% in the prior year period. The gross margin rate, excluding acquisitions and the impact of foreign exchange, was 35.3%.

Gross profit at the Food Processing Equipment Group increased by $14.1 million, or 14.3%, to $112.6 million in the nine months period ended September 26, 2020, as compared to $98.5 million in the prior year period. Excluding the acquisition, gross profit increased by approximately $9.8 million. The impact of foreign exchange rates decreased gross profit by approximately $0.3 million. The gross profit margin rate increased to 35.6%, as compared to 35.2% in the prior year period. The gross margin rate, excluding the acquisition and the impact of foreign exchange, was 35.7%.

Gross profit at the Residential Kitchen Equipment Group decreased by $26.1 million, or 16.0%, to $137.5 million in the nine months period ended September 26, 2020, as compared to $163.6 million in the prior year period. The impact of foreign exchange rates increased gross profit by approximately $0.2 million. The gross margin rate decreased to 35.7%, as compared to 38.9% in the prior year period, primarily related to lower sales volumes.

SELLING, GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES. Combined selling, general and administrative expenses decreased from $445.0 million in the nine months period ended September 28, 2019 to $384.6 million in the nine months period ended September 26, 2020. As a percentage of net sales, selling, general, and administrative expenses were 20.5% in the nine months period ended September 28, 2019, as compared to 21.6% in the nine months period ended September 26, 2020.

Selling, general and administrative expenses reflect increased costs of $21.1 million associated with acquisitions, including $5.4 million of intangible amortization expense. Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $40.7 million related to compensation costs and commissions and $32.3 million due to controllable cost reductions within professional fees, travel & entertainment, convention costs and advertising. Foreign exchange rates had a favorable impact of $1.7 million. The compensation decreases were partially offset by a $11.2 million increase related to higher non-cash share-based compensation. The prior year period expenses also included $10.1 million related to the transition costs with respect to the former Chairman and Chief Executive Officer upon his retirement in February 2019.

RESTRUCTURING EXPENSES.Restructuring expenses increased $3.5 million from $6.8 million in the nine months period ended September 28, 2019 to $10.3 million in the nine months period ended September 26, 2020. Restructuring expenses in the current period related primarily to headcount reductions and facility consolidations within the Commercial Foodservice Equipment Group. In the nine months period ended September 28, 2019, restructuring charges related primarily to headcount reductions and cost reduction initiatives related to facility consolidations at the Commercial Foodservice Equipment Group and Residential Kitchen Equipment Group.

NON-OPERATING EXPENSES. Interest and deferred financing amortization costs were $55.9 million in the nine months period ended September 26, 2020, as compared to $63.3 million in the prior year period, reflecting the reduction in the average interest rates under the Credit Facility and benefit from the Convertible Notes, offset by higher non-cash interest from the Convertible Notes. Net periodic pension benefit (other than service costs) increased $7.8 million to $30.0 million in the nine months period ended September 26, 2020 from $22.2 million in the prior year period, related to the decrease in discount rate used to calculate the interest cost and higher expected returns on assets driven by higher asset values at the end of fiscal 2019. Other expense was $3.4 million in the nine months period ended September 26, 2020, as compared to other income of $0.5 million in the prior year period and consists mainly of foreign exchange gains and losses.

INCOME TAXES. A tax provision of $46.5 million, at an effective rate of 23.0%, was recorded during the nine months period ended September 26, 2020, as compared to $78.2 million at an effective rate of 24.3%, in the prior year period. The effective tax rates in 2020 and 2019 are higher than the federal tax rate of 21% primarily due to state taxes.










35
28


Financial Condition and Liquidity
During the ninethree months ended September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, cash and cash equivalents increased by $125.8$41.2 million to $220.3$309.3 million from $94.5$268.1 million at December 28, 2019. Borrowings decreased from $1.9 billionJanuary 2, 2021. Total debt increased to $1.8 billion at December 28, 2019 and September 26, 2020, respectively.April 3, 2021 from $1.7 billion at January 2, 2021 primarily due to the adoption of ASU 2020-06 as discussed in Note 4, Recently Issued Accounting Standards, in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
OPERATING ACTIVITIES. Net cash provided by operating activities was $316.2$59.7 million for the ninethree months ended September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, compared to $229.7$87.1 million for the ninethree months ended SeptemberMarch 28, 2019.2020.

During ninethree months period ended September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, net cash provided by changes in assets and liabilities amounted to $80.9$57.1 million. This resulted from paymentsThe changes included an increase in accounts receivable of $66.7 million due to improved market conditions and collections largely attributableincreased sales volumes. Inventory increased $33.3 million and accounts payable increased $31.7 million to reduction in sales volumes at the Commercial Foodservice Equipment Groupsupport increased demand and Residential Kitchen Equipment Group, as well as decreases in inventory levels.to manage supply chain risks. Changes also included a $19.9$27.4 million decrease in prepaid expenses and other assets and $16.2 million decrease in accrued expenses and other non-current liabilities including impacts from the timingsale of payments madeassets held for various customer programs and compensation programs.sale for a non-core business within the Residential Kitchen Equipment Group.
INVESTING ACTIVITIES. During the ninethree months ended September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, net cash used for investing activities amounted to $53.5$7.0 million. This included $33.7$8.7 million primarily for the 2020 acquisitions of RAM, Deutsche. Additionally, $29.8 million was expended, primarily associated with additions and upgrades of production equipment, manufacturing facilities and residential and commercial showrooms, and was partially offset by $9.4$3.4 million proceeds on the sale of propertiesproperty following facility consolidationsconsolidation actions.
FINANCING ACTIVITIES. Net cash flows used by financing activities were $134.8$8.3 million during the ninethree months ended September 26, 2020. On January 31, 2020, the company entered into an amended and restated five-year, $3.5 billion multi-currency senior secured credit agreement (the "Credit Facility").  On August 21, 2020, the company issued $747.5 million aggregate principal amount of 1.00% the Convertible Senior Notes due 2025 (the "Notes"), and incurred $17.6 million of issuance costs.April 3, 2021. The company then entered into privately negotiated capped call transactions (the "Capped Call Transactions") in an aggregate amount of $104.7 million. A portion of the net proceeds from the Notes offering was used to prepay $400.0 million aggregate principal amount of its term loan obligations and to execute an amendment to the Credit Facility. The company incurred approximately $11.0 million of debt issuance costs, in aggregate, for amendments to the Credit Facility.
In addition to the term loan prepayment, the company’s borrowing activities during the ninethree months ended September 26, 2020April 3, 2021 included $270.2$4.7 million of net repayments under its Credit Facility as a result of utilizationand $1.8 million of net proceeds from the Convertible Notes transactions, as well as repaying borrowing made during the first half of the year.
Additionally, therepayments under its foreign banking facilities. The company repurchased $77.2 million of Middleby common shares during the nine months ended September 26, 2020. This was comprised of $7.5used $1.8 million to repurchase 108,47310,473 shares of Middleby common stock that were surrendered to the company by employees in lieu of cash payment for withholding taxes related to restricted stock vestings and $69.7 million used to repurchase 896,965 shares of its common stock under a repurchase program.vesting during the quarter.
At September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, the company was in compliance with all covenants pursuant to its borrowing agreements. The company has run various scenarios to estimate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and continues to believebelieves that its futurecurrent capital resources, including cash and cash equivalents, cash expected to be generated from operation, funds available from its current lenders and access to the credit and capital markets will be sufficient to finance its operations, together with its capacity under its Credit Facilitydebt service obligations, capital expenditures, product development and its cash on hand, will provide adequate resources to meet its working capital needs and cash requirements and maintain compliance with financial covenants in its Credit Facilityexpenditures for at least the next 12 months.foreseeable future.

3629


Recently Issued Accounting Standards

See Part I, Item 1, Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, Note 4 - Recent Issued Accounting Standards, of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
Management's discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations are based upon the company's consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of these financial statements requires the company to make significant estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses as well as related disclosures. On an ongoing basis, the company evaluates its estimates and judgments based on historical experience and various other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions and any such differences could be material to the company's consolidated financial statements. There have been no changes in the company's critical accounting policies, which include revenue recognition, inventories, goodwill and other intangibles, pensions benefits, and income taxes, as discussed in the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 28, 2019January 2, 2021 (the “2019“2020 Annual Report on Form 10-K”) other than those described below.

During the ninethree months period ended September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, the company adopted ASU 2017-04, "Intangibles - Goodwill2020-06, "Accounting for Convertible Instruments and Other (Topic 350)". The amendments simplify the subsequent measurement of goodwill, by removing the second step of the goodwill impairment test. The company's qualitative assessment of goodwill impairment remains consistent; however,Contracts in the case of an impairment, the company will apply a one-step quantitative test and record the amount of goodwill impairment as the excess of a reporting unit's carrying amount over its fair value.

During the nine months period ended September 26, 2020, the company completed the issuance of convertible debt with debt and equity components. The company evaluated the different components and features of the hybrid instrument and determined whether certain elements were embedded derivative instruments which require bifurcation. Components of convertible debt instruments that upon conversion may be settled fully in cash or partly in cash based on a net-share settlement basis are accounted for separately as long-term debt and equity when the conversion feature of the convertible bonds constitute an embedded equity instrument. When an equity instrument is identified, proceeds from issuance are allocated between debt and equity by measuring first the liability component and then determining the equity component as a residual amount. The liability component is measured as the fair value of a similar nonconvertible debt, which results in the recognition of a debt discount. In subsequent periods, the company will amortize the debt discount to interest expense, net within the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income, using the effective interest method based on the expected maturity of the debt. The equity component is reported in additional paid-in capital within the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Changes in Stockholders' Equity and is not remeasured as long as it continues to meet the conditions for equity classification.

The company allocated transaction costs related to the issuance of convertible debt using the same proportions as the proceeds from the convertible debt. Transaction costs attributable to the liability component are recorded as a direct deduction from the related debt liability in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets and are amortized to interest expense, net within the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income over the term of the convertible debt using the effective interest rate method. Transaction costs attributable to the equity component are netted within additional paid-in capital within the Condensed Consolidated Statement of Stockholders'Entity’s Own Equity.

For additional information regarding our convertible debt, see Note 12, Financing Arrangements, in the Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included in Part I, Item 1 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

"
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Item 3.   Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk 
Interest Rate Risk 
The company is exposed to market risk related to changes in interest rates. The following table summarizes the maturity of the company’s debt obligations:
Twelve Month Period coinciding with the end of the company's Fiscal Third Quarter

Variable Rate
Debt
Twelve Month Period coinciding with the end of the company's Fiscal First Quarter

Twelve Month Period coinciding with the end of the company's Fiscal First Quarter

Variable Rate
Debt
2021$23,152 
2022202219,132 2022$21,093 
2023202318,838 202319,163 
2024202418,832 202419,042 
2025 and thereafter1,752,171 
202520251,030,340 
2026 and thereafter2026 and thereafter732,495 
$1,832,125  $1,822,133 
The company is exposed to interest rate risk on its floating-rate debt. The company has entered into interest rate swaps to fix the interest rate applicable to certain of its variable-rate debt. The agreements swap one-month LIBOR for fixed rates. The company has designated these swaps as cash flow hedges and all changes in fair value of the swaps are recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income. As of September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, the fair value of these instruments was a liability of $57.8$34.4 million. The change in fair value of these swap agreements in the first ninethree months of 20202021 was a lossgain of $25.2$12.4 million, net of taxes. The potential net loss on fair value for such instruments from a hypothetical 10% adverse change in quoted interest rates would not have a material impact on the company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
In August 2020, the company issued $747.5 million aggregate principal amount of Convertible Notes in a private offering pursuant to the Indenture. The company does not have economic interest rate exposure as the Convertible Notes have a fixed annual rate of 1.00%. The fair value of the convertible senior notesConvertible Notes is subject to interest rate risk, market risk and other factors due to its conversion feature. The fair value of the convertible senior notes areConvertible Notes is also affected by the price and volatility of the company’s common stock and will generally increase or decrease as the market price of our common stock changes. The interest and market value changes affect the fair value of the convertible senior notesConvertible Notes but do not impact the company’s financial position, cash flows or results of operations due to the fixed nature of the debt obligation. Additionally, the company carries the convertible senior notesConvertible Notes at face value, less any unamortized discount on the balance sheet and presents the fair value for disclosure purposes only.
Foreign Exchange Derivative Financial Instruments
The company uses foreign currency forward, foreign exchange swaps and option purchase and sales contracts to hedge its exposure to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. The company’s primary hedging activities are to mitigate its exposure to changes in exchange rates on intercompany and third party trade receivables and payables. The company does not currently enter into derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes. In managing its foreign currency exposures, the company identifies and aggregates naturally occurring offsetting positions and then hedges residual balance sheet exposures. The potential net loss on fair value for such instruments from a hypothetical 10% adverse change in quoted foreign exchange rates would not have a material impact on the company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows. The fair value of the forward and option contracts was a gainloss of $0.2$0.7 million at the end of the thirdfirst quarter of 2020.2021.

The company accounts for its derivative financial instruments in accordance with ASC 815, "Derivatives and Hedging". In accordance with ASC 815, these instruments are recognized on the balance sheet as either an asset or a liability measured at fair value. Changes in the market value and the related foreign exchange gains and losses are recorded in the statement of earnings.

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Item 4. Controls and Procedures
The company maintains disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the company's Exchange Act reports is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to the company's management, including its Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
As of September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, the company carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of the company's management, including the company's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the company's disclosure controls and procedures. Based on the foregoing, the company's Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of this period. 
During the quarter ended September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, there has been no change in the company's internal control over financial reporting that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the company's internal control over financial reporting.
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PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
The company was not required to report the information pursuant to Items 1 through 6 of Part II of Form 10-Q for the ninethree months ended September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, except as follows:
Item 1A. Risk Factors

The risk factors disclosed in the 20192020 Annual Report on Form 10-K should be considered together with information included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 26, 2020April 3, 2021 and should not be limited to those referenced. The below information details changes that have occurredfollowing risks and uncertainties related to the previously disclosed risk factors in the 2019 Annual Report on Form 10-K. Except for such additional information, the company believes there have been no material changes fromMerger supplement the risk factors previously disclosed in the 2019our Annual Report on Form 10-K.10-K for the year ended January 2, 2021.

Risks Relating to the Merger with Welbilt, Inc.

The COVID-19 pandemic has, and likely will continueMerger is subject to adversely impact and pose riskscustomary closing conditions to the company,obligations of both Middleby and Welbilt to complete the natureMerger, and extent of whichif these conditions are highly uncertain and unpredictable.not satisfied or waived, the Merger may not be completed on a timely basis or at all.

The company is monitoring the global outbreakcompletion of the COVID-19 pandemicMerger is subject to several of customary conditions to closing and taking stepsthere can be no assurance that such conditions to mitigateclosing that remain outstanding will be satisfied or waived (to the risks posedextent permitted by its spread, including workinglaw). The failure to timely satisfy the required conditions could delay the completion of the Merger for a significant period of time or prevent the completion of the Merger from occurring at all. These conditions to closing include, among others, (i) approval of the issuance of Middleby Common Stock in connection with its customers, employees, suppliersthe Merger by the Middleby stockholders, (ii) approval for listing of the Middleby Common Stock to be issued in connection with the Merger on NASDAQ, (iii) the effectiveness of a registration statement on Form S-4 with respect to the Middleby Common Stock to be issued in connection with the Merger, (iv) approval and adoption of the Merger Agreement by Welbilt’s stockholders, (v) expiration or termination of any waiting period under the HSR Act, and receipt of applicable approvals under certain foreign competition, antitrust or merger control laws, (vi) there being no law or order prohibiting consummation of the Merger, (vii) subject to specified materiality standards, the accuracy of the representations and warranties of the parties, (viii) compliance by the parties in all material respects with their respective covenants, (ix) the absence of a material adverse effect with respect to each of Middleby and Welbilt, and (x) the delivery of an officer’s closing certificate by both parties.

Many of the conditions to completion of the Merger are not within Middleby’s control, and Middleby cannot predict when, or if, these conditions will be satisfied. If any of these conditions are not satisfied or waived prior to April 20, 2022 (subject to extension if certain approvals have not been obtained by such date), it is possible that the Merger Agreement may be terminated. Although Welbilt and Middleby have agreed in the Merger Agreement to use reasonable best efforts to, subject to certain limitations, complete the Merger as promptly as practicable, these and other stakeholders. The pandemic is adversely affecting,conditions to the completion of the Merger may fail to be satisfied. In addition, satisfying the conditions to and is expected to continue tocompletion of the Merger may take longer, and could cost more, than Middleby expects. Middleby cannot predict whether and when these other conditions will be satisfied. Furthermore, the requirements for obtaining the required clearances and approvals could delay the completion of the Merger for a significant period of time or prevent them from occurring. Any delay in completing the Merger may adversely affect the company's financial results, conditioncost savings and outlook. Certain elementsother benefits that Welbilt and Middleby expect to achieve if the Merger and the integration of the company's business (including its supply chain, distribution systems, production levelscompanies’ respective businesses are not completed within the expected timeframe. There can be no assurance that all required regulatory approvals will be obtained or obtained prior to the termination date. The governmental agencies from which the parties have sought or are seeking certain approvals in connection with the Merger have broad discretion in administering applicable governing regulations, and research and development activities) and operations have been negatively impacted due to significant portionsmay impose requirements, limitations or costs, require divestitures or place restrictions on the conduct of the company's workforce being unablecombined company’s business after the closing. Such requirements, limitations, costs, divestitures or restrictions could delay or prevent the consummation of the Merger or have a material adverse effect on the combined company’s business and results of operations.

Failure to work effectively due to quarantines, government orders and guidance, facility closures, illness, travel restrictions, implementation of precautionary measures and other restrictions. The company also has experienced, and expects to continue to experience, unpredictable volatility in demand given disruptions in global health, economic and market conditions, consumer behavior and global restaurant operations. Ifconsummate the pandemic continues and conditions worsen, the company expects to experience additional adverse impacts on operational and commercial activities, costs, customer orders and purchases and collections of accounts receivable, which may be material, and the extent of these exposures remains uncertain even if conditions begin to improve. The pandemic has also increased the risk related to the company's ability to ensure business continuity during a potential disruption, including increased cybersecurity attacks related to the work-from-home environment. Furthermore, the pandemic has impacted and may further impact the broader economies of affected countries, including negatively impacting economic growth, the proper functioning of financial and capital markets, foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates, all of whichMerger could continue to negatively impact the company. Dueshare price and future business and financial results.

If the Merger is not consummated, the ongoing businesses of Middleby may be adversely affected and, without realizing any of the potential benefits of having consummated the Merger, Middleby will be subject to several risks, including the following:

• Middleby may experience negative reactions from the financial markets, including negative impacts on its stock prices;

• Middleby may experience negative reactions from its customers, distributors, suppliers, vendors, business partners and employees;
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• Middleby will be required to pay certain costs and expenses relating to the speed withMerger whether or not the Merger is consummated, such as legal, accounting, financial advisor and printing fees;

• Matters relating to the Merger (including integration planning) may require substantial management time and resources, which could otherwise have been devoted to other beneficial opportunities;

• Middleby could become subject to litigation related to any failure to consummate the situationMerger or related to any enforcement proceeding commenced against Middleby to perform its obligations under the Merger Agreement; and

• If the Merger Agreement is developing,terminated in certain circumstances, Middleby may be required to pay Welbilt a termination fee equal to $160 million (“Middleby Termination Fee”) or, under other specified circumstances, a termination fee equal to $140 million.

If the global breadth of the pandemic's spreadMerger is not consummated, these risks may materialize and the range of governmentalmay materially and community reactions, there is uncertainty around the pandemic's duration, ultimate impact and the timing of recovery. Therefore, the pandemic could lead to an extended disruption of economic activity and the impact on the company's consolidated results ofadversely affect Middleby’s business, operations, financial positionresults and cash flows could be material. In addition, the continuation or a resurgence of the pandemic could exacerbate the other risk factors identified in the "Risk Factors" section of the 2019 Annual Report on Form 10K.share price.

The company's levelMerger Agreement subjects Middleby to restrictions on its business activities prior to the Effective Time.

The Merger Agreement subjects Middleby to restrictions on its business activities prior to the Effective Time. The Merger Agreement obligates Middleby to generally conduct its businesses in the ordinary course until the Effective Time and to use its reasonable best efforts to (i) preserve its assets and business organization, (ii) maintain its existing relationships and goodwill with material customers, suppliers, distributors, governmental authorities and business partners, and (iii) to keep available the services of indebtednessits officers and key employees. These restrictions could prevent Middleby from pursuing certain business opportunities that arise prior to the Effective Time.

The Merger Agreement contains provisions that limit Middleby’s ability to pursue alternatives to the Merger, may discourage certain other companies from making a favorable alternative transaction proposal and, in specified circumstances, could require Middleby to pay Welbilt a termination fee.

Under the Merger Agreement, Middleby is subject to certain restrictions on its ability to solicit alternative business combination proposals from third parties, engage in discussion or negotiations with respect to such proposals or provide information in connection with such proposals, subject to certain customary exceptions. Middleby may terminate the Merger Agreement and enter into an agreement providing for a superior proposal only if specified conditions have been satisfied, and such a termination would result in Middleby being required to pay Welbilt the Middleby Termination Fee. If the Merger Agreement is terminated and Middleby determines to seek another business combination, Middleby may not be able to negotiate a transaction with another party on terms comparable to, or better than, the terms of the Merger. While Middleby believes these provisions and agreements are reasonable and customary and are not preclusive of other offers, these provisions could discourage a third party that may have an interest in acquiring all or a significant part of Middleby from considering or proposing such acquisition, even if such third party were prepared to pay consideration with a higher value than the merger consideration. These provisions might also result in a potential third party acquirer proposing to pay a lower price than it might otherwise have proposed to pay because of the added expense of the termination fee that may become payable in certain circumstances.

In specified circumstances, Welbilt could terminate the Merger Agreement to accept an alternative proposal.

Welbilt may in certain circumstances terminate the Merger Agreement to enter into an agreement providing for a superior proposal prior to obtaining approval and adoption of the Merger Agreement by the Welbilt stockholders. In such event, Welbilt would be obligated to pay Middleby a termination fee equal to $110 million, but Welbilt would have no further material obligations or liabilities to Middleby relating to or arising out of the Merger Agreement or the Merger. Such termination would deny Middleby and its stockholders any benefits from the Merger and could materially and negatively impact Middleby’s share price.






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Because the number of Middleby shares that Welbilt stockholders will be entitled to receive as a result of the Merger will be based on a fixed exchange ratio, and the value of the Middleby shares has fluctuated and will continue to fluctuate, the value of the merger consideration is uncertain.

Upon completion of the Merger, Welbilt stockholders will be entitled to receive 0.1240 shares of Middleby Common Stock in exchange for each outstanding and issued share of Welbilt Common Stock. Because this exchange ratio is fixed and will only be adjusted in certain limited circumstances (including reclassifications, stock splits or combinations, exchanges or readjustments of shares, or stock dividends, recapitalization or similar transactions involving Welbilt or Middleby), any changes in the market value of shares of Middleby Common Stock or Welbilt Common Stock may affect the value that Welbilt stockholders will be entitled to receive upon completion of the Merger. Share price changes may result from a variety of factors, including changes in the business, operations or prospects of Middleby or Welbilt, market assessments of the likelihood that the Merger will be completed, the timing of the Merger, regulatory considerations, general market and economic conditions and other factors.

While the Merger is pending, Middleby will be subject to business uncertainties which could adversely affect its business, results of operations, financial condition and growth strategy.cash flows.
In August 2020,
Uncertainty about the company issued $747.5 million aggregate principal amounteffect of 1.00% Convertible Senior Notes due 2025 (the "Convertible Notes"), which bear interest semi-annually in arrearsthe Merger on Middleby’s employees, customers, distributors, suppliers, vendors and matureother business partners may have an adverse effect on September 1, 2025 unless they are redeemed, repurchased or converted priorMiddleby. These uncertainties may impair the company’s ability to such date in accordance with their terms. Upon conversion,attract, retain and motivate key personnel until the company can electMerger is consummated and for a period thereafter. If, despite its retention efforts, key employees of Middleby depart because of issues relating to pay or deliver, cash, sharesthe uncertainty and difficulty of common stockintegration or a combination of cashdesire not to remain with the combined company, the combined company’s (or, if the Merger is not consummated, Middleby’s) business could be harmed and shares of common stock, in respectits ability to realize the anticipated benefits of the remainder, if any, ofMerger could be adversely affected.

Parties with which Middleby does business may experience uncertainty associated with the company's conversion obligationMerger, including with respect to current or future business relationships with Middleby. Middleby’s business relationships may be subject to disruption as customers and suppliers may attempt to negotiate changes in excess of the aggregate principal amount of the Convertible Notes being converted. Under certain circumstances, the holders of the Convertible Notes may require the company to repay allexisting business relationships or a portion of the principal and interest outstanding under the Convertible Notes in cash prior to the maturity date, whichconsider entering into business relationships with other parties. These disruptions could have an adverse effect on ourthe business, financial condition, results of operations or prospects of Middleby, including an adverse effect on the anticipated benefits of the Merger. The risk and adverse effect of such disruptions could be exacerbated by a delay in completion of the Merger or termination of the Merger Agreement.

If completed, the Merger may not achieve its intended results.

Welbilt and Middleby entered into the Merger Agreement with the expectation that the Merger will result in various benefits. Achieving the anticipated benefits of the Merger is subject to several uncertainties, including whether the businesses of Middleby and Welbilt can be integrated in an efficient and effective manner. Failure to achieve these anticipated benefits could result in increased costs or decreases in the amount of expected revenues and could adversely affect the combined company’s future business, financial condition, operating results and cash flows.

Welbilt and Middleby may be unable to successfully integrate their respective operations. Failure to successfully integrate the businesses of Welbilt and Middleby in the expected timeframe may adversely affect the future results of the combined company, and, consequently, the value of the Middleby shares that Welbilt stockholders will receive as the merger consideration.

It is possible that the integration process could take longer than anticipated, could give rise to unanticipated costs and could result in the loss of valuable employees, the disruption of each of Welbilt’s and Middleby’s ongoing businesses, processes and systems or inconsistencies in standards, controls, procedures, practices, policies and compensation arrangements, any of which could adversely affect the combined company’s ability to achieve the anticipated benefits of the Merger. The combined company’s results of operations could also be adversely affected by any issues attributable to either company’s operations that arise or are based on events or actions that occur prior to the completion of the Merger. Welbilt and Middleby may have difficulty addressing possible differences in corporate cultures and management philosophies. The integration process is subject to several uncertainties, and no assurance can be given that the anticipated benefits will be realized or, if realized, the timing of their realization.




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The conditional conversion featureMiddleby and Welbilt may be targets of legal proceedings that could result in substantial costs and may delay or prevent the Merger from being completed.

Although, currently, Middleby is not aware of any legal proceedings having been brought against Welbilt or Middleby in connection with the Merger, securities class action lawsuits, derivative lawsuits and other legal proceedings are often brought against public companies that have entered into merger agreements. Even if such legal proceedings are without merit, defending against these claims can result in substantial costs and divert management time and resources. An adverse judgment could result in monetary damages, which could have a negative impact on Welbilt’s and Middleby’s respective liquidity and financial condition. Additionally, if a plaintiff is successful in obtaining an injunction prohibiting completion of the Convertible Notes, if triggered,Merger, such injunction may delay or prevent the Merger from being completed, or from being completed within the expected timeframe, which may adversely affect ourMiddleby’s business, financial conditionposition and operating results.

In the event the conditional conversion featureresults of the Convertible Notes is triggered, holders will be entitled to convert their option at any time during specified periods. If one or more holders elect to convert their Convertible Notes, unless the company elects to satisfy the conversion obligation by delivering solely shares of our common stock (other than paying cash in lieu of delivering any fractional share), the company would be required to settle a portion or all of the conversion obligation through the payment of cash, which could adversely affect the company's liquidity. To the extent the company satisfies the conversion obligation by delivering shares of common stock, the company would be required to deliver a significant number of shares, which would cause dilution to our existing stockholders. In addition, even if holders do not elect to convert their Convertible Notes in such circumstances, the company could be required under applicable accounting rules to reclassify all or a portion of the outstanding principal of the applicable series of Convertible Notes as a current rather than long-term liability, which would result in a material reduction in net working capital.operation.

The capped call transactions expose the company to counterparty risk and may affect the valuemarket price of the company's common stock.Middleby Common Stock after the Merger may be affected by factors different from those currently affecting the market price of Welbilt Common Stock.

In connection with the issuanceUpon completion of the Convertible Notes,Merger, Welbilt stockholders will no longer be stockholders of Welbilt but will instead become holders of Middleby Common Stock. The businesses of Middleby differ from those of Welbilt in important respects, and, accordingly, the company entered into capped call transactions with certain financial institutions, referred toresults of operations of Middleby after the Merger, as the capped call counterparties. The capped call transactions are expected generally to reduce the potential dilution upon conversion of the Convertible Notes and/or offset any cash payments the company is required to make in excess of the principal amount of the Convertible Notes,well as the case may be, with such reduction and/or offset subject to a cap. From time to time, the capped call counterparties or their respective affiliates may modify their hedge positions by entering into or unwinding various derivative transactions with respect to the company's common stock and/or purchasing or selling the company's common stock in secondary market transactions prior to the maturity of the Convertible Notes. This activity could cause a decrease in the market price of the company's common stock.

Middleby Common Stock, may be affected by factors different from those currently affecting the results of operations of Welbilt. In addition, the capped call counterparties are financial institutions, and the company is subject to the risk that one or more of the capped call counterparties may default or otherwise fail to perform, or may exercise certain rights to terminate, their obligations under the capped call transactions. The company's exposure to the credit risk of the option counterparties is not secured by any collateral. Ifgeneral fluctuations in stock markets could have a capped call counterparty becomes subject to insolvency proceedings, the company will become an unsecured creditor in those proceedings with a claim equal to the exposure at the time under such transaction. The company's exposure will dependmaterial adverse effect on many factors but, generally, the exposure will increase if the market pricefor, or the volatilityliquidity of, the company's common stock increases. In addition, upon a default or other failure to perform, or a terminationMiddleby Common Stock, regardless of obligations, by a capped call counterparty, the company may suffer more dilution than currently anticipated with respect to the company's common stock. The company can provide no assurances as to the financial stability or viability of the capped call counterparties.
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Middleby’s actual operating performance.

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

a) Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities in connection with Investments

On June 29, 2020, in connection with the company’s minority investment in Bluezone Products, Inc. (“Bluezone”), the company issued 46,365 unregistered shares of the company’s common stock to a certain stockholder of Bluezone (“Bluezone Stockholder”) in exchange for 36,764 shares of series A preferred stock of Bluezone. The shares of company common stock were issued in reliance on the exemption from registration under Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (“Securities Act”). The company relied on such exemption based in part upon representations made by the Bluezone Stockholder, including its status as an accredited investor, as such term is defined in Rule 501 of the Securities Act.
c) Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities 
 Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased
Average
Price Paid
per Share
Total Number
of Shares
Purchased as
Part of Publicly
Announced
Plan or
Program
Maximum
Number of
Shares that May
Yet be
Purchased
Under the Plan
or Program (1)
June 28, 2020January 3, 2021 to July 25, 2020January 30, 2021— $— — 1,476,835 
July 26, 2020January 31, 2021 to August 22, 2020February 27, 2021— — — 1,476,835 
August 23, 2020February 28, 2021 to September 26, 2020April 3, 2021— — — 1,476,835 
Quarter ended September 26, 2020April 3, 2021— $— — 1,476,835 
(1) On November 7, 2017, the company's Board of Directors resolved to terminate the company's existing share repurchase program, effective as of such date, which was originally adopted in 1998, and approved a new stock repurchase program. This program authorizes the company to repurchase in the aggregate up to 2,500,000 shares of its outstanding common stock. As of September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, the total number of shares authorized for repurchase under the program is 2,500,000. As of September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, 1,023,165 shares had been purchased under the 2017 stock repurchase program.  
    In the consolidated financial statements, the company also treats shares withheld for tax purposes on behalf of employees in connection with the vesting of restricted share grants as common stock repurchases because they reduce the number of shares that would have been issued upon vesting. These withheld shares are not considered common stock repurchases under the authorized common stock repurchase plan and accordingly are not included in the common stock repurchase totals in the preceding table.

  
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Item 6. Exhibits
Exhibits:
Exhibit 4.12.1
Exhibit 4.2 –
Exhibit 10.1 –
Exhibit 10.2 –
Exhibit 31.1 –  
Exhibit 31.2 –
 
Exhibit 32.1 –
Exhibit 32.2 –
Exhibit 101 –Financial statements on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 26, 2020,April 3, 2021, filed on November 5, 2020,May 13, 2021, formatted in Inline Extensive Business Reporting Language (iXBRL); (i) condensed consolidated balance sheets, (ii) condensed consolidated statements of earnings, (iii) condensed statements of cash flows, (iv) notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements.
Exhibit 104 –Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline Extensive Business Reporting Language (iXBRL) and contained in Exhibit 101).

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SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 THE MIDDLEBY CORPORATION
 (Registrant)
Date:November 5, 2020May 13, 2021By:/s/  Bryan E. Mittelman
  Bryan E. Mittelman
  Chief Financial Officer
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