UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C.  20549


FORM 10-Q


(Mark One)

x

ý QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2003March 31, 2004

OR

o

o  TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from        to

Commission file number: 001-14733


LITHIA MOTORS, INC.


(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Oregon

93-0572810

Oregon93-0572810

(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)

(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

360 E. Jackson Street, Medford, Oregon

97501

(Address of principal executive offices)

(Zip Code)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:  541-776-6899


Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:541-776-6899


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   ý   No   o

Yes  X        No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).   Yes  Xý   Noo

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

Class A common stock without par value

14,691,277

14,982,842

Class B common stock without par value

3,762,231

(Class)

(Outstanding at November 10, 2003)May 4, 2004)





LITHIA MOTORS, INC.

FORM 10-Q

INDEX

 


TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.

Financial Statements

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Unaudited) - March 31, 2004 and December 31, 2003

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited)  - Three Months Ended March 31, 2004 and 2003

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) - Three Months Ended March 31, 2004 and 2003

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

Item 2.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 6.

Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

SIGNATURES

EXHIBIT 31.1Signatures

EXHIBIT 31.2
EXHIBIT 32.1
EXHIBIT 32.2


LITHIA MOTORS, INC.
FORM 10-Q
INDEX

Page

PART I — FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1.Financial Statements
Consolidated Balance Sheets – September 30, 2003 (unaudited) and December 31, 20022
Consolidated Statements of Operations – Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 and 2002 (unaudited)3
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows – Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 and 2002 (unaudited)4
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)5
Item 2.Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations11
Item 3.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk19
Item 4.Controls and Procedures19
PART II — OTHER INFORMATION
Item 6.Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K19
Signatures20

1




PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.  Financial Statements

LITHIA MOTORS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands)
(Unaudited)

            
     September 30, December 31,
     2003 2002
     
 
     (Unaudited)    
Assets
        
Current Assets:        
 Cash and cash equivalents $50,231  $15,932 
 Contracts in transit  42,632   41,493 
 Trade receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $578 and $455  42,908   40,680 
 Notes receivable, current portion, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $138 and $247  124   167 
 Inventories, net  448,019   445,908 
 Vehicles leased to others, current portion  5,507   5,341 
 Prepaid expenses and other  3,657   5,707 
 Deferred income taxes  3,696   550 
   
   
 
   Total Current Assets  596,774   555,778 
Land and buildings, net of accumulated depreciation of $5,051 and $3,618  141,358   118,696 
Equipment and other, net of accumulated depreciation of $18,955 and $14,602  64,659   58,215 
Notes receivable, less current portion  706   881 
Vehicles leased to others, less current portion  19   19 
Goodwill, net  206,442   185,212 
Other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $345 and $330  27,837   20,985 
Other non-current assets  1,841   2,263 
   
   
 
   Total Assets $1,039,636  $942,049 
   
   
 
Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
        
Current Liabilities:        
 Flooring notes payable $376,337  $364,635 
 Current maturities of long-term debt  5,166   4,466 
 Trade payables  23,785   19,445 
 Accrued liabilities  58,378   40,924 
   
   
 
   Total Current Liabilities  463,666   429,470 
Used Vehicle Flooring  58,149   63,000 
Real Estate Debt, less current maturities  79,706   73,798 
Other Long-Term Debt, less current maturities  59,704   30,914 
Deferred Revenue  957   1,617 
Other Long-Term Liabilities  7,863   9,581 
Deferred Income Taxes  21,383   13,676 
   
   
 
   Total Liabilities  691,428   622,056 
Stockholders’ Equity:        
 Preferred stock — no par value; authorized 15,000 shares; none outstanding      
 Class A common stock — no par value; authorized 100,000 shares; issued and outstanding 14,593 and 14,299  206,840   203,577 
 Class B common stock — no par value authorized 25,000 shares; issued and outstanding 3,762 and 3,762  468   468 
 Additional paid-in capital  1,052   929 
 Accumulated other comprehensive loss  (1,970)  (2,517)
 Retained earnings  141,818   117,536 
   
   
 
  Total Stockholders’ Equity  348,208   319,993 
   
   
 
  Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity $1,039,636  $942,049 
   
   
 

 

 

March 31,
2004

 

December 31,
2003

 

 

 

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

Current Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

39,813

 

$

74,408

 

Contracts in transit

 

42,541

 

44,709

 

Trade receivables, net of allowance for doubtful

 

 

 

 

 

accounts of $401 and $413

 

42,587

 

42,199

 

Notes receivable, current portion, net of allowance

 

 

 

 

 

for doubtful accounts of $42 and $49

 

116

 

208

 

Inventories, net

 

482,212

 

445,281

 

Vehicles leased to others, current portion

 

4,926

 

5,747

 

Prepaid expenses and other

 

3,688

 

3,392

 

Assets held for sale

 

15,673

 

20,408

 

Deferred income taxes

 

818

 

585

 

Total Current Assets

 

632,374

 

636,937

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Land and buildings, net of accumulated depreciation of $6,328 and $5,683

 

179,527

 

164,676

 

Equipment and other, net of accumulated depreciation of $20,370 and $18,315

 

64,173

 

62,637

 

Notes receivable, less current portion

 

664

 

676

 

Vehicles leased to others, less current portion

 

7

 

10

 

Goodwill

 

212,829

 

207,027

 

Other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $45 and $39

 

31,220

 

28,946

 

Other non-current assets

 

1,891

 

1,873

 

Total Assets

 

$

1,122,685

 

$

1,102,782

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity

 

 

 

 

 

Current Liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Flooring notes payable

 

$

407,179

 

$

378,961

 

Current maturities of long-term debt

 

16,508

 

14,299

 

Trade payables

 

25,107

 

24,402

 

Accrued liabilities

 

50,834

 

46,164

 

Liabilities held for sale

 

8,874

 

13,045

 

Total Current Liabilities

 

508,502

 

476,871

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Used Vehicle Flooring Facility

 

58,950

 

56,267

 

Real Estate Debt, less current maturities

 

88,999

 

80,159

 

Other Long-Term Debt, less current maturities

 

66,005

 

98,308

 

Deferred Revenue

 

807

 

875

 

Other Long-Term Liabilities

 

7,001

 

7,235

 

Deferred Income Taxes

 

25,726

 

24,141

 

Total Liabilities

 

755,990

 

743,856

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stockholders’ Equity:

 

 

 

 

 

Preferred stock - no par value; authorized 15,000 shares; none outstanding

 

 

 

Class A common stock - no par value; authorized 100,000 shares; issued and outstanding 14,914 and 14,693

 

210,806

 

208,187

 

Class B common stock - no par value authorized 25,000 shares; issued and outstanding 3,762 and 3,762

 

468

 

468

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

1,497

 

1,231

 

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

 

(2,759

)

(1,468

)

Retained earnings

 

156,683

 

150,508

 

Total Stockholders’ Equity

 

366,695

 

358,926

 

Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity

 

$

1,122,685

 

$

1,102,782

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

2




LITHIA MOTORS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Dollars inIn thousands, except per share amounts)

(Unaudited)

                   
    Three months ended September 30, Nine months ended September 30,
    
 
    2003 2002 2003 2002
    
 
 
 
Revenues:                
 New vehicle sales $429,434  $390,229  $1,134,504  $958,651 
 Used vehicle sales  200,899   199,443   574,205   568,415 
 Service, body and parts  71,155   62,964   195,267   169,997 
 Finance and insurance  25,908   22,107   70,486   60,186 
 Fleet and other  888   12,902   4,833   39,112 
   
   
   
   
 
  Total revenues  728,284   687,645   1,979,295   1,796,361 
Cost of sales  611,280   583,039   1,663,896   1,515,226 
   
   
   
   
 
Gross profit  117,004   104,606   315,399   281,135 
Selling, general and administrative  87,730   80,209   249,342   221,485 
Depreciation — buildings  543   648   1,483   1,706 
Depreciation and amortization — other  2,138   1,396   5,923   3,901 
   
   
   
   
 
  Income from operations  26,593   22,353   58,651   54,043 
Other income (expense)                
 Floorplan interest expense  (3,413)  (2,943)  (10,954)  (8,162)
 Other interest expense  (1,510)  (1,581)  (4,506)  (4,637)
 Other expense, net  (272)  (252)  (724)  (334)
   
   
   
   
 
   (5,195)  (4,776)  (16,184)  (13,133)
   
   
   
   
 
Income before income taxes  21,398   17,577   42,467   40,910 
Income tax expense  8,517   6,848   16,902   15,855 
   
   
   
   
 
Net income $12,881  $10,729  $25,565  $25,055 
   
   
   
   
 
Basic net income per share $0.70  $0.60  $1.40  $1.48 
   
   
   
   
 
Shares used in basic net income per share  18,338   17,950   18,234   16,959 
   
   
   
   
 
Diluted net income per share $0.69  $0.59  $1.39  $1.44 
   
   
   
   
 
Shares used in diluted net income per share  18,708   18,269   18,430   17,381 
   
   
   
   
 

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

 

 

2004

 

2003

 

Revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

New vehicle sales

 

$

353,601

 

$

308,494

 

Used vehicle sales

 

189,906

 

172,096

 

Service, body and parts

 

69,426

 

56,485

 

Finance and insurance

 

23,385

 

20,410

 

Fleet and other

 

1,531

 

2,075

 

Total revenues

 

637,849

 

559,560

 

Cost of sales

 

531,615

 

471,073

 

Gross profit

 

106,234

 

88,487

 

Selling, general and administrative

 

85,187

 

74,229

 

Depreciation - buildings

 

644

 

459

 

Depreciation and amortization - other

 

2,310

 

1,672

 

Income from operations

 

18,093

 

12,127

 

Other income (expense):

 

 

 

 

 

Floorplan interest expense

 

(3,616

)

(3,546

)

Other interest expense

 

(1,740

)

(1,388

)

Other income, net

 

(339

)

(147

)

 

 

(5,695

)

(5,081

)

Income from continuing operations before income taxes

 

12,398

 

7,046

 

Income taxes

 

(4,836

)

(2,731

)

Income before discontinued operations

 

7,562

 

4,315

 

Income (loss) from discontinued operations,

 

 

 

 

 

net of income tax benefit of $53 and $95

 

(83

)

(150

)

Net income

 

$

7,479

 

$

4,165

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic income per share from continuing operations

 

$

0.41

 

$

0.24

 

Basic income (loss) per share from discontinued

 

 

 

 

 

operations

 

(0.01

)

(0.01

)

Basic net income per share

 

$

0.40

 

$

0.23

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shares used in basic net income per share

 

18,626

 

18,133

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Diluted income per share from continuing operations

 

$

0.40

 

$

0.24

 

Diluted income (loss) per share from discontinued

 

 

 

 

 

operations

 

(0.01

)

(0.01

)

Diluted net income per share

 

$

0.39

 

$

0.23

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shares used in diluted net income per share

 

19,111

 

18,272

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

3




LITHIA MOTORS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)

(Unaudited)

             
      Nine months ended September 30,
      
      2003 2002
      
 
Cash flows from operating activities:        
 Net income $25,565  $25,055 
 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:        
   Depreciation and amortization  7,406   5,607 
   Compensation expense related to stock option issuances  144   124 
   Gain on sale of assets  (656)  (4)
   Loss on sale of vehicles leased to others  136   33 
   Gain on sale of franchise  (275)  (50)
   Deferred income taxes  4,288   1,974 
   Equity in (income) loss of affiliate  13   (1)
   (Increase) decrease, net of effect of acquisitions:        
    Trade and installment contract receivables, net  (2,194)  (2,560)
    Contracts in transit  (1,139)  397 
    Inventories  37,538   (63,262)
    Prepaid expenses and other  2,244   1,558 
    Other noncurrent assets  380   (441)
   Increase (decrease), net of effect of acquisitions:        
    Flooring notes payable  (17,470)  56,591 
    Trade payables  4,306   3,872 
    Accrued liabilities  17,406   4,368 
    Other long-term liabilities and deferred revenue  (2,578)  2,180 
   
   
 
    Net cash provided by operating activities  75,114   35,441 
Cash flows from investing activities:        
 Notes receivable issued  (58)  (159)
 Principal payments received on notes receivable  371   1,407 
 Capital expenditures:        
  Non-financeable  (3,712)  (4,799)
  Financeable  (18,598)  (24,292)
 Proceeds from sale of assets  441   1,635 
 Expenditures for vehicles leased to others  (4,626)  (5,562)
 Proceeds from sale of vehicles leased to others  832   1,274 
 Cash paid for acquisitions, net of cash acquired  (48,256)  (77,163)
 Cash from sale of franchises  252   535 
 Distribution from affiliate  33    
   
   
 
    Net cash used in investing activities  (73,321)  (107,124)
Cash flows from financing activities:        
 Net borrowings (repayments) on lines of credit  25,842   (16,000)
 Prinicpal payments on long-term debt and capital leases  (2,983)  (10,072)
 Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt  7,688   23,026 
 Repurchase of common stock  (215)   
 Proceeds from issuance of common stock  3,457   81,067 
 Redemption of Series M Preferred Stock     (4,355)
 Dividends paid  (1,283)   
   
   
 
    Net cash provided by financing activities  32,506   73,666 
   
   
 
Increase in cash and cash equivalents  34,299   1,983 
Cash and cash equivalents:        
 Beginning of period  15,932   18,814 
   
   
 
 End of period $50,231  $20,797 
   
   
 

 

 

Three months ended March 31,

 

 

 

2004

 

2003

 

Cash  flows from operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

7,479

 

$

4,165

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

2,954

 

2,131

 

Depreciation and amortization of discontinued operations

 

 

156

 

Compensation related to stock option issuances

 

41

 

40

 

Loss on sale of assets

 

102

 

48

 

Loss on sale of vehicles leased to others

 

85

 

12

 

Gain on sale of franchise

 

(540

)

 

Deferred income taxes

 

2,371

 

1,574

 

(Increase) decrease, net of effect of acquisitions:

 

 

 

 

 

Trade and installment contract receivables, net

 

(391

)

2,314

 

Contracts in transit

 

2,168

 

(3,662

)

Inventories

 

(19,450

)

(7,255

)

Prepaid expenses and other

 

(250

)

610

 

Other noncurrent assets

 

(18

)

(184

)

Increase (decrease), net of effect of acquisitions:

 

 

 

 

 

Floorplan notes payable

 

15,732

 

19,044

 

Trade payables

 

702

 

3,562

 

Accrued liabilities

 

2,526

 

(150

)

Other liabilities

 

(228

)

(2,285

)

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

13,283

 

20,120

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Notes receivable issued

 

 

(20

)

Principal payments received on notes receivable

 

104

 

149

 

Capital expenditures:

 

 

 

 

 

Non-financeable

 

(2,258

)

(1,179

)

Financeable

 

(10,973

)

(4,360

)

Proceeds from sale of assets

 

227

 

171

 

Proceeds from sale of vehicles leased to others

 

504

 

69

 

Expenditures for vehicles leased to others

 

(2,011

)

(1,320

)

Cash paid for acquisitions, net of cash acquired

 

(16,864

)

(10,426

)

Proceeds from sale of franchises

 

649

 

 

Net cash used in investing activities

 

(30,622

)

(16,916

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Net borrowings (repayments) on lines of credit

 

(28,000

)

5,300

 

Principal payments on all other long-term debt and capital leases

 

(3,197

)

(909

)

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt

 

12,626

 

5,242

 

Repurchase of common stock

 

 

(215

)

Net proceeds from issuance of common stock

 

2,619

 

1,039

 

Dividends paid

 

(1,304

)

 

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

 

(17,256

)

10,457

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

 

(34,595

)

13,661

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents:

 

 

 

 

 

Beginning of period

 

74,408

 

15,932

 

End of period

 

$

39,813

 

$

29,593

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:

 

 

 

 

 

Cash paid during the period for interest

 

5,357

 

4,760

 

Cash paid during the period for income taxes

 

2,223

 

44

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

4




LITHIA MOTORS, INC.

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

Note 1.  Basis of Presentation

The financial information included herein as of September 30, 2003March 31, 2004 and for the three and nine-monththree-month periods ended September 30,March 31, 2004 and 2003 and 2002 is unaudited; however, such information reflects all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, which are, in the opinion of management, are necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position, results of operations and cash flows for the interim periods.  The financial information as of December 31, 20022003 is derived from our 20022003 Annual Report on Form 10-K.  The interim consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in our 20022003 Annual Report on Form 10-K. The results of operations for the interim periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year.

Note 2.  Inventories

Inventories are valued at the lower of market value or cost, using the specific identification method for vehicles and the first-in first-out (FIFO) method of accounting for parts (collectively, the FIFO method).  Detail of inventory is as follows (in thousands):

         
  September 30, December 31,
  2003 2002
  
 
New and program vehicles $354,612  $340,457 
Used vehicles  72,686   85,170 
Parts and accessories  20,721   20,281 
   
   
 
  $448,019  $445,908 
   
   
 

Note 3. Supplemental Cash Flow Information

Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information is as follows (in thousands):

         
  Nine Months Ended
  September 30,
  
  2003 2002
  
 
Cash paid during the period for income taxes $3,966  $10,904 
Cash paid during the period for interest  15,391   12,530 
Assets acquired through real estate exchange  1,987    

 

 

March 31,
2004

 

December 31,
2003

 

New and program vehicles

 

$

387,508

 

$

355,937

 

Used vehicles

 

72,967

 

68,747

 

Parts and accessories

 

21,737

 

20,597

 

 

 

$

482,212

 

$

445,281

 

Note 4.3.  Earnings Per Share

Following is a reconciliation of basic earnings per share (“EPS”) and diluted EPS (in thousands, except per share amounts).

                         
Three Months Ended September 30, 2003 2002

 
 
          Per         Per
          Share         Share
  Income Shares Amount Income Shares Amount
  
 
 
 
 
 
Basic EPS
                        
Net income available to common shareholders $12,881   18,338  $0.70  $10,729   17,950  $0.60 
           
           
 
Diluted EPS
                        
Dilutive stock options      370           319     
       
           
     
Net income available to common shareholders $12,881   18,708  $0.69  $10,729   18,269  $0.59 
           
           
 
:

5

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

2004

 

2003

 

 

 

Net
Income

 

Shares

 

Per
Share
Amount

 

Net
Income

 

Shares

 

Per
Share
Amount

 

Basic EPS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

7,479

 

18,626

 

$

0.40

 

$

4,165

 

18,133

 

$

0.23

 

Diluted EPS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effect of dilutive stock options

 

 

 

485

 

 

 

 

 

139

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

7,479

 

19,111

 

$

0.39

 

$

4,165

 

18,272

 

$

0.23

 


                         
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 2002

 
 
          Per         Per
          Share         Share
  Income Shares Amount Income Shares Amount
  
 
 
 
 
 
Basic EPS
                        
Net income available to common shareholders $25,565   18,234  $1.40  $25,055   16,959  $1.48 
           
           
 
Diluted EPS
                        
Dilutive stock options      196           422     
       
           
     
Net income available to common shareholders $25,565   18,430  $1.39  $25,055   17,381  $1.44 
           
           
 

Potentially dilutive securities that are not included in the diluted EPS calculations because they would be antidilutive are as follows (in thousands):follows:

 

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

 

 

2004

 

2003

 

Stock options

 

379,616

 

1,047,692

 

5



                 
  Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
  
 
  2003 2002 2003 2002
  
 
 
 
Stock options  20   38   609   10 

Note 5.4.  Comprehensive Income

Comprehensive income includes the fair value of cash flowchange in hedging instruments that are reflected in shareholders’ equity instead of net income.income and unrealized gains and losses on investments.  The following table sets forth the calculation of comprehensive income for the periods indicated (in thousands):

                  
   Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
   September 30, September 30,
   
 
   2003 2002 2003 2002
   
 
 
 
Net income $12,881  $10,729  $25,565  $25,055 
Unrealized gain (loss) on investments, net, subsequently realized  14   (3)  8    
Cash flow hedges:                
 Net derivative gains (losses), net of tax effect of $(189), $590, $809 and $1,105, respectively  412   (923)  (1,103)  (1,745)
 Reversal of net derivative losses previously recorded due to their recognition in our statements of operations as incremental interest expense, net of tax effect of $(393), $(244), $(1,086) and $(712), respectively  594   377   1,642   1,122 
   
   
   
   
 
Total comprehensive income $13,901  $10,180  $26,112  $24,432 
   
   
   
   
 

 

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

 

 

2004

 

2003

 

Net income

 

$

7,479

 

$

4,165

 

Unrealized gain (loss) on investments, net, subsequently realized

 

 

(11

)

Cash flow hedges:

 

 

 

 

 

Net derivative gains (losses), net of tax effect of  $1,205 and $381, respectively

 

(1,909

)

(588

)

Reversal of net derivative losses previously disclosed.  This component has been recognized in our statements of operations  as incremental interest expense, net of tax effect of $(395) and $(315), respectively

 

618

 

499

 

Total comprehensive income

 

$

6,188

 

$

4,065

 

Note 6.5.  Acquisitions

The following acquisitions were made in the first nine monthsquarter of 2003:2004.  For information on the acquisition made in April 2004, see Note 10. Subsequent Events.

In February 2003,January 2004, we acquired Richardson Chevroletone Chrysler and Jeep store in Salinas, California,Reno, Nevada, which has anticipated 2003 annual revenues of approximately $35.0 million. This store has been renamed Chevrolet of Salinas.

In March 2003, we acquired Pacific Hyundai of Anchorage, Alaska, which has anticipated 2003 revenues of approximately $10.0$55.0 million.  The store has been renamed Lithia HyundaiChrysler Jeep of Anchorage.
Reno.

In March 2003,2004, we acquired Randy Hansenone Chevrolet of Twin Falls, Idaho, which has anticipated 2003 annual revenues of approximately $30.0 million. The store has been renamed Chevrolet Cadillac of Twin Falls.

In April 2003, we acquired Grizzly Chrysler Dodge of Missoula,in Helena, Montana, which has anticipated 2003 revenues of approximately $25.0 million. The store has been renamed Lithia Auto Center of Missoula.

6


In May 2003, we acquired Expressway Dodge of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, which has anticipated 2003annual revenues of approximately $40.0 million.  The store has been renamed Lithia DodgeChevrolet of Broken Arrow.
Helena.

In June 2003, we acquired Midland Dodge of Billings, Montana, which has anticipated 2003 revenues of approximately $35.0 million. The store has been renamed Lithia Dodge of Billings.

In August 2003, we acquired Mercedes Benz of Spokane, Washington, which has anticipated 2003 revenues of approximately $20.0 million. The store has been renamed Mercedes-Benz of Spokane.

In August 2003, we acquired Santa Rosa Dodge in California, which has anticipated 2003 revenues of approximately $30.0 million. The store has been renamed Lithia Dodge of Santa Rosa.

See Note 15 Subsequent Events for acquisitions that occurred in October 2003.

The above acquisitions were accounted for under the purchase method of accounting.  Pro forma results of operations assuming the above acquisitions occurred at the beginning of the respective periods are as follows (in thousands, except per share amounts):

                 
  Three Months Ended September 30, Nine Months Ended September 30,
  
 
  2003 2002 2003 2002
  
 
 
 
Total revenues $735,188  $753,337  $2,071,025  $1,983,842 
Net income  12,964   11,226   26,681   26,078 
Basic earnings per share  0.71   0.63   1.46   1.54 
Diluted earnings per share  0.69   0.61   1.45   1.50 

 

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

 

 

2004

 

2003

 

Total revenues

 

$

662,975

 

$

607,498

 

Net income

 

7,617

 

4,431

 

Basic earnings per share

 

0.41

 

0.24

 

Diluted earnings per share

 

0.40

 

0.24

 

There are no future contingent payouts related to any of the above acquisitions and no portion of the purchase price was paid with our equity securities. The purchase price for the above acquisitions was allocated as follows (in thousands):

      
Inventory $37,770 
Other current assets  211 
Property and equipment  14,529 
Goodwill  19,421 
Other intangible assets – primarily franchise value  6,867 
   
 
 Total assets acquired  78,798 
Flooring notes payable  30,474 
Other current liabilities  204 
   
 
 Total liabilities acquired  30,678 
   
 
Net assets acquired $48,120 
   
 

Inventories

 

$

11,060

 

Other current assets

 

28

 

Property and equipment

 

6,316

 

Goodwill

 

5,942

 

Other intangible assets - franchise value

 

2,130

 

Total assets acquired

 

25,476

 

 

 

 

 

Flooring notes payable

 

8,620

 

Other current liabilities

 

16

 

Total liabilities acquired

 

8,636

 

Net assets acquired

 

$

16,840

 

Within one year from the purchase date, we may update the value allocated to purchased assets and the resulting goodwill balances for new information received regarding the valuation of such assets. We anticipate that approximately 100% of the goodwill acquired in the above acquisitions will be deductible for tax purposes over the period of 15 years.

Note 7. DaimlerChrysler Agreement

In February 2003 we entered into a working capital and used vehicle flooring credit facility with DaimlerChrysler Services North America LLC totaling up to $200 million, which expires in February 2006, with interest due monthly.6

The credit line with DaimlerChrysler Services is cross-collateralized and secured by cash and cash equivalents, new and used vehicle and parts inventories, accounts receivable, intangible assets and equipment. We pledged to DaimlerChrysler Services the stock of all of our subsidiaries except entities operating BMW, Honda, Nissan or Toyota stores.

7


The financial covenants in the agreement with DaimlerChrysler Services require us to maintain compliance with, among other things, (i) a specified current ratio; (ii) a specified fixed charge coverage ratio; (iii) a specified interest coverage ratio; (iv) a specified adjusted leverage ratio; and (v) certain working capital levels. We were in compliance with these covenants at September 30, 2003.

Our previous facility with Ford Motor Credit Company was terminated and paid off on February 25, 2003.

Note 8. U.S. Bank Agreement Amendment

In April 2003, our U.S. Bank N.A. agreement was amended to provide for a $35.0 million revolving line of credit for leased vehicles and equipment purchases, which expires January 31, 2005. At September 30, 2003, we had $35.0 million outstanding on this line of credit. Previously, the amount available under this line of credit was $27.5 million and it expired January 31, 2004.

Note 9. 2003 Stock Incentive Plan

At our annual shareholders meeting in May 2003, our shareholders approved an amendment to and restatement of our 2001 Stock Option Plan in the form of the 2003 Stock Incentive Plan in order to bring the plan in compliance with new requirements related to the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. There were no additions made to the number of shares of our common stock reserved for issuance under the restated plan.

Note 10. Amendment to 1998 Employee Stock Purchase Plan

At our annual shareholders meeting in May 2003, our shareholders approved an amendment to our 1998 Employee Stock Purchase Plan to increase the number of shares reserved for issuance thereunder from 1,000,000 to 1,500,000.

Note 11.6.  Dividend Payment

In July 2003,January 2004, our Board of Directors approved a dividend on our Class A and Class B common stock of $0.07 per share for the secondfourth quarter of 2003.  The dividend, which totaled approximately $1.3 million, and was paid on August 22, 2003March 19, 2004 to shareholders of record on August 8, 2003. See March 5, 2004.

Note 15 Subsequent Events7.  U.S. Bank Agreement Amendment

In February 2004, our U.S. Bank N.A. agreement was amended to provide for information regardinga $50.0 million revolving line of credit for leased vehicles and equipment purchases, which expires January 31, 2006. Previously, the declarationamount available under this line of credit was $35.0 million and it was set to expire January 31, 2005.

Note 8.  Interest Rate Swaps

In March 2004, we entered into the following interest rate swaps with U.S. Bank Dealer Commercial Services:

                  effective March 9, 2004 – a dividend in October 2003.five year, $25 million interest rate swap at a fixed rate of 3.25% per annum, variable rate adjusted on the 1st and 16th of each month;

                  effective March 18, 2004 – a five year, $25 million interest rate swap at a fixed rate of 3.10% per annum, variable rate adjusted on the 1st and 16th of each month.

Note 12.9.  Stock-Based Compensation

We account for stock options using the intrinsic value method as prescribed by Accounting Principles Board (APB) Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees.”   Pursuant to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 148 “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation - Transition and Disclosure,” which we adopted in December 2002, we have computed, for pro forma disclosure purposes, the impact on net income and net income per share as if we had accounted for our stock-based compensation plans in accordance with the fair value method prescribed by SFAS No. 123 “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation” as follows (in thousands):

          
Three Months Ended September 30, 2003 2002

 
 
Net income, as reported $12,881  $10,729 
Add – Stock-based employee compensation expense included in reported net income, net of related tax effects  25   25 
Deduct — total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under the fair value based method for all awards, net of related tax effects  (631)  (527)
   
   
 
Net income, pro forma $12,275  $10,227 
   
   
 
Basic net income per share:        
 As reported $0.70  $0.60 
   
   
 
 Pro forma $0.67  $0.57 
   
   
 
Diluted net income per share:        
 As reported $0.69  $0.59 
   
   
 
 Pro forma $0.67  $0.57 
   
   
 
follows:

8


Three Months Ended March 31,

 

2004

 

2003

 

Net income, as reported

 

$

7,479

 

$

4,165

 

Add – Stock-based employee compensation expense included in reported net income, net of related tax effects

 

25

 

25

 

Deduct – total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under the fair value based method for all awards, net of related tax effects

 

(618

)

(537

)

Net income, pro forma

 

$

6,886

 

$

3,653

 

Basic net income per share:

 

 

 

 

 

As reported

 

$

0.40

 

$

0.23

 

Pro forma

 

$

0.37

 

$

0.20

 

Diluted net income per share:

 

 

 

 

 

As reported

 

$

0.39

 

$

0.23

 

Pro forma

 

$

0.37

 

$

0.20

 

          
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 2002

 
 
Net income, as reported $25,565  $25,055 
Add – Stock-based employee compensation expense included in reported net income, net of related tax effects  74   76 
Deduct — total stock-based employee compensation expense determined under the fair value based method for all awards, net of related tax effects  (1,855)  (1,521)
   
   
 
Net income, pro forma $23,784  $23,610 
   
   
 
Basic net income per share:        
 As reported $1.40  $1.48 
   
   
 
 Pro forma $1.30  $1.39 
   
   
 
Diluted net income per share:        
 As reported $1.39  $1.44 
   
   
 
 Pro forma $1.30  $1.38 
   
   
 

To determine the fair value of stock-based awards granted, we used the Black-Scholes option pricing model and the following weighted average assumptions:

          
Three and Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 2002

 
 
Risk-free interest rate  2.5% - 3.0%  4.0%
Expected dividend yield  0–1.7%  0%
Expected lives - 2001 Plan 7.7- 8 years 8 years
                     - Purchase Plan 3 months 3 months
Expected volatility  45.63% – 46.79%  46.80%

Note 13. Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

2004

 

2003

 

Risk-free interest rate

 

2.80

%

3.00

%

Expected dividend yield

 

1.04

%

0

%

Expected lives - 2001 Plan

 

5.4

years

8.0

years

- Purchase Plan

 

3

months

3

months

Expected volatility

 

43.32

%

46.24

%

In July 2002, the FASB approved SFAS No. 146, “Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities.” SFAS No. 146 addresses the financial accounting and reporting for obligations associated with an exit activity, including restructuring, or with a disposal of long-lived assets. Exit activities include, but are not limited to, eliminating or reducing product lines, terminating employees and contracts and relocating plant facilities or personnel. SFAS No. 146 specifies that a company will record a liability for a cost associated with an exit or disposal activity only when that liability is incurred and can be measured at fair value. Therefore, commitment to an exit plan or a plan of disposal expresses only management’s intended future actions and, therefore, does not meet the requirement for recognizing a liability and the related expense. SFAS No. 146 is effective prospectively for exit or disposal activities initiated after December 31, 2002, with earlier adoption encouraged. The adoption of SFAS No. 146 on January 1, 2003 did not have any effect on our financial position or results of operations.7

The FASB’s Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) finalized EITF 00-21 “Accounting for Multiple Element Arrangements” in November 2002. EITF 00-21 requires arrangements with multiple elements to be broken out as separate units of accounting based on their relative fair values. Revenue for a separate unit of accounting should be recognized only if the amount due can be reliably measured and the earnings process is substantially complete. Any units that can not be separated must be accounted for as a combined unit. Our accounting policy is consistent with EITF 00-21 and therefore, the adoption on January 1, 2003 did not have any effect on our financial position or results of operations.

In March 2003, the EITF issued EITF 02-16 “Accounting by a Customer (Including a Reseller) for Certain Consideration Received from a Vendor.” EITF 02-16 primarily applies to floorplan interest credits and advertising credits received by us from auto manufacturers and specifies the timing of and appropriate classification of such items in our statement of operations. We recognize floorplan interest credits and advertising credits that are tied to specific vehicles as a reduction to the carrying value of the specific inventory and ultimately as a reduction to cost of goods sold as related vehicles are sold and we recognize other advertising credits as a credit to advertising expense. The adoption of EITF 02-16 on January 1, 2003 resulted in the reclassification of certain expenses, but did not have any effect on our net income or financial position (see Note 14).

9


In May 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 149, “Amendment of Statement 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities.” SFAS No. 149 addresses certain accounting issues related to hedging activity and derivative instruments embedded in other contracts. In general, the amendments require contracts with comparable characteristics to be accounted for similarly. In addition, SFAS No. 149 provides guidance as to when a financing component of a derivative must be given special reporting treatment in the statement of cash flows. SFAS No. 149 is effective for contracts entered into or modified after June 30, 2003. The adoption of SFAS No. 149 did not have a material effect on our financial position or results of operations.

In May 2003, the FASB approved SFAS No. 150, “Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of Both Liabilities and Equity.” SFAS No. 150 establishes standards for how to classify and measure financial instruments with characteristics of both liabilities and equity. It requires financial instruments that fall within its scope to be classified as liabilities. SFAS No. 150 is effective for financial instruments entered into or modified after May 31, 2003 and, for pre-existing financial instruments, as of July 1, 2003. We do not have any financial instruments that fall under the guidance of SFAS No. 150 and, therefore, the adoption did not have any effect on our financial position or results of operations.

Note 14. Reclassifications

In the fourth quarter of 2002, we reclassified documentation fees from finance and insurance income to new and used vehicle revenue, as appropriate, in order to bring our reporting in line with industry practice. The resulting effect was a reduction of approximately $100 per vehicle of finance and insurance income and an increase in new and retail used vehicle gross margins of between 20 and 50 basis points. Accordingly, the finance and insurance sales per retail unit, revenue by product line and gross margin percentage disclosures have been recalculated for the first three quarters of 2002. Net income was not affected by this reclassification.

Pursuant to EITF 02-16 “Accounting by a Customer (Including a Reseller) for Certain Consideration Received from a Vendor,” in the second quarter of 2003 we began classifying advertising credits that are tied to specific vehicles as a reduction to cost of goods sold as related vehicles are sold. Accordingly, $1.1 million of credits included in selling, general and administrative costs in the first quarter of 2003 were reclassified as a credit to cost of sales for that period. Net income was not affected by this reclassification.

Note 15.10.  Subsequent Events

Acquisition

The following acquisition was made subsequent to March 31, 2004:

In April 2004, we acquired Tony Chevrolet of Anchorage and Tony Chevrolet of Wasilla, Alaska, which have anticipated combined annual revenues of approximately $125 million.  The stores have been renamed Chevrolet of South Anchorage and Chevrolet of Wasilla, respectively.

Quarterly Dividend

In October 2003,April 2004, our Board of Directors approved a dividend on our Class A and Class B common stock of $0.07 per share for the thirdfirst quarter of 2003.2004.  The dividend, which will total approximately $1.3 million, will be paid on NovemberMay 21, 20032004 to shareholders of record on NovemberMay 7, 2003.2004.

AcquisitionsDebt Offering

In May 2004, we sold $85 million of 2.88% senior subordinated convertible notes due 2014 through a Rule 144A offering to qualified institutional buyers. Net proceeds from this offering were approximately $82.5 million and were used to pay down our working capital and used vehicle line and new vehicle flooring notes payable. The following acquisitions were made subsequentnotes are convertible into shares of our Class A common stock at a price of $37.69 per share upon the satisfaction of certain conditions and upon the occurrence of certain events.  The notes are redeemable at our option beginning May 6, 2009 at the redemption price of 100% of the principal amount plus any accrued interest.   The holders of the notes can require us to September 30, 2003:

In October 2003, werepurchase all or some of the notes on May 1, 2009 and upon certain events constituting a fundamental change. A fundamental change is any transaction or event in which all or substantially all of our common stock is exchanged for, converted into, acquired Chevrolet Cadillac of Fairbanks, Alaska, which has anticipated 2003 revenues of approximately $15.0 million. The store namefor, or constitutes solely the right to receive, consideration that is not all, or substantially all, common stock that is listed on, or immediately after the transaction or event, will remain the same; and
be listed on, a United States national securities exchange.

In October 2003, we acquired Grapevine Dodge in Grapevine, Texas, which has anticipated 2003 revenues of approximately $70.0 million. The store has been renamed Lithia Dodge of Grapevine.

10


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

Forward Looking Statements and Risk Factors

Some of the statements in this Form 10-Q constitute forward-looking statements.  In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terms such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “intend,” “forecast,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” and “continue” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. The forward-looking statements contained in this Form 10-Q involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and situations that may cause our actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these statements. Some of the important factors that could cause actual results to differ from our expectations are discussed in Exhibit 99.399.1 to our 20022003 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

Although we believe that the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future results, levels of activity, performance or achievements. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

General

We are a leading operator of automotive franchises and retailer of new and used vehicles and services.  As of NovemberMay 10, 2003,2004, we offered 2425 brands of new vehicles through 146151 franchises in 7882 stores in the westernWestern United States and over the Internet.  As of NovemberMay 10, 2003,2004, we operateoperated 16 stores in Oregon, 13 in California, 11 in Washington, 8 in Texas, 7 in Idaho, 7 in Colorado, 56 in Nevada, 46 in Alaska, 3 in Montana, 2 in South Dakota, 2 in Nebraska 2 in Montana and 1 in Oklahoma.  We sell new and used cars and light trucks; sell replacement parts; provide vehicle maintenance, warranty, paint and repair

8



services; and arrange related financing, service contracts, protection products and warrantycredit insurance for our automotive customers. Approximately 79% of our stores are located in cities where they benefit from little or no competition from the same brand in that city.

During an economic downturn, customers tend to shift towards the purchase of more reasonably priced new vehicle models or used vehicles. Many customers decide to delay purchasing a new vehicle and instead repair existing vehicles. In addition, manufacturers typically offer increased dealer and customer incentives during an economic downturn in order to support new vehicle sales volume. These factors generally lead to less volatility in earnings for automobile retailers than for automobile manufacturers.

Historically, new vehicle sales have accounted for approximately 50% of our total revenues but less than 30% of total gross profit.  The first nine months of 2003 have been characterized byWe are continuing with a very strong incentive environment, which led to higher than normalvolume-based strategy for our new vehicle sales forthat we initiated in 2002. Through an advertising campaign called “Driving America” that is centered on “Promo Pricing,” we were able to gain new vehicle market share in many of our markets.  This strategy complements the period.approach taken by the auto manufacturers, which have continued to offer a high level of customer incentives.

11


In 2004, we expect that manufacturers will continue to incentivize new vehicle sales through a combination of rebates and low interest rate loans to consumers. We plan to continue with our volume-based new vehicle strategy in most of the markets where we operate.  As the economy and the incentive environment change, we will adjust our new vehicle sales strategy accordingly to take advantage of any new conditions.

Competition from highly incentivized new vehicles in the past two years has had a strong negative impact on the used vehicle market.  This trend is likely to continue in 2004.  However, we have implemented new procedures to help combat this negative impact as follows:

Our revenues                  We have begun a strategy of conducting our own local used vehicle auctions in select markets and managing the disposal of used vehicles at larger auctions.  We no longer allow stores to dispose of their excess inventories on their own.  The process is centralized and controlled at the management level; and

                  We have initiated our “Used Vehicle Promo Pricing” strategy, which markets vehicles with a $99 down payment and then groups vehicles by payment level.  Vehicles are marked with clear and understandable pricing, which reduces haggling and speeds up the sale process.  This strategy resolves the three biggest issues of price, down payment and monthly payment for our customers and sales people in a simple way.

Results of Continuing Operations

Certain revenue, gross margin and gross profit information by product line werewas as follows:

             
  Percent of Gross Percent of Total
Three Months Ended September 30, 2003 Total Revenues Margin Gross Profit

 
 
 
New vehicles  59.0%  7.6%  28.0%
Retail used vehicles(1)
  23.1   14.6   21.0 
Service, body and parts  9.8   47.3   28.7 
Finance and insurance(2)
  3.6   99.9   22.1 
Fleet and other  0.1   17.6   0.1 
             
  Percent of Gross Percent of Total
Three Months Ended September 30, 2002 Total Revenues Margin Gross Profit

 
 
 
New vehicles  56.7%  8.2%  30.7%
Retail used vehicles(1)
  24.3   12.5   20.0 
Service, body and parts  9.2   47.5   28.6 
Finance and insurance(2)
  3.2   99.5   21.0 
Fleet and other  1.9   1.7   0.2 
             
  Percent of Gross Percent of Total
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 Total Revenues Margin Gross Profit

 
 
 
New vehicles  57.3%  7.6%  27.4%
Retail used vehicles(1)
  24.0   13.8   20.9 
Service, body and parts  9.9   47.3   29.3 
Finance and insurance(2)
  3.6   99.7   22.3 
Fleet and other  0.2   17.5   0.3 
             
  Percent of Gross Percent of Total
Nine Months Ended September 30, 2002 Total Revenues Margin Gross Profit

 
 
 
New vehicles  53.4%  8.5%  28.9%
Retail used vehicles(1)
  26.3   12.6   21.1 
Service, body and parts  9.5   47.9   29.0 
Finance and insurance(2)
  3.4   99.4   21.3 
Fleet and other  2.2   1.7   0.2 


(1)Excludes wholesale used vehicle sales, representing 4.4%, 4.7%, 5.0% and 5.2% of total revenues, respectively, and a negative gross margin contribution of 0.0%, 0.5%, 0.2% and 0.5%, respectively, for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2003 and 2002.
(2)Reported net of administration fees and anticipated cancellations.

Three Months Ended March 31, 2004

 

Percent of
Total Revenues

 

Gross
Margin

 

Percent of Total
Gross Profit

 

New vehicles

 

55.4

%

7.5

%

24.9

%

Retail used vehicles(1)

 

24.7

 

14.2

 

21.1

 

Service, body and parts

 

10.9

 

47.3

 

30.9

 

Finance and insurance(2)

 

3.7

 

99.3

 

21.9

 

Fleet and other

 

0.2

 

20.1

 

0.3

 

Three Months Ended March 31, 2003

 

Percent of
Total Revenues

 

Gross
Margin

 

Percent of Total
Gross Profit

 

New vehicles

 

55.1

%

7.4

%

25.9

%

Retail used vehicles(1)

 

25.3

 

13.0

 

20.8

 

Service, body and parts

 

10.1

 

47.6

 

30.4

 

Finance and insurance(2)

 

3.6

 

99.7

 

23.0

 

Fleet and other

 

0.4

 

12.9

 

0.3

 


(1)       Excludes wholesale used vehicle sales, representing 5.1% and 5.5% of total revenues, respectively, and a gross margin contribution of 0.9% and (0.4)%, respectively, for the three month periods ended March 31, 2004 and 2003.

(2)  Reported net of anticipated cancellations.

9



The following table sets forth selected condensed financial data, expressed as a percentage of total revenues for the periods indicated.

                   
    Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
Lithia Motors, Inc.(1) September 30, September 30,

 
 
    2003 2002 2003 2002
    
 
 
 
Revenues:                
 New vehicles  59.0%  56.7%  57.3%  53.4%
 Used vehicles  27.5   29.0   29.0   31.5 
 Service, body and parts  9.8   9.2   9.9   9.5 
 Finance and insurance  3.6   3.2   3.6   3.4 
 Fleet and other  0.1   1.9   0.2   2.2 
   
   
   
   
 
  Total revenues  100.0%  100.0%  100.0%  100.0%
Gross profit  16.1   15.2   15.9   15.7 
Selling, general and administrative expenses  12.0   11.7   12.6   12.3 
Depreciation and amortization  0.4   0.3   0.4   0.3 
Income from operations  3.7   3.3   3.0   3.0 
Floorplan interest expense  0.5   0.4   0.6   0.5 
Other interest expense  0.2   0.2   0.2   0.3 
Income before taxes  2.9   2.6   2.1   2.3 
Income tax expense  1.2   1.0   0.9   0.9 
Net income  1.8%  1.6%  1.3%  1.4%

Lithia Motors, Inc. (1)

 

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

 

 

2004

 

2003

 

Revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

New vehicles

 

55.4

%

55.1

%

Used vehicles

 

29.8

 

30.8

 

Service, body and parts

 

10.9

 

10.1

 

Finance and insurance

 

3.7

 

3.6

 

Fleet and other

 

0.2

 

0.4

 

Total revenues

 

100.0

%

100.0

%

Gross profit

 

16.7

 

15.8

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses

 

13.4

 

13.3

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

0.5

 

0.4

 

Income from operations

 

2.8

 

2.2

 

Floorplan interest expense

 

0.6

 

0.6

 

Other interest expense

 

0.3

 

0.2

 

Other expense, net

 

 

 

Income from continuing operations before taxes

 

1.9

 

1.3

 

Income tax expense

 

0.8

 

0.5

 

Income from continuing operations

 

1.2

%

0.8

%


(1)The percentages may not add due to rounding.

The percentages may not add due to rounding.

12


Results of Operations

                   
    Three Months Ended      
    September 30,     %
    
 Increase Increase
    2003 2002 (Decrease) (Decrease)
    
 
 
 
Revenues:                
 New vehicle sales $429,434  $390,229  $39,205   10.0%
 Used vehicle sales  200,899   199,443   1,456   0.7 
 Service, body and parts  71,155   62,964   8,191   13.0 
 Finance and insurance  25,908   22,107   3,801   17.2 
 Fleet and other  888   12,902   (12,014)  (93.1)
   
   
   
   
 
  Total revenues  728,284   687,645   40,639   5.9 
Cost of sales  611,280   583,039   28,241   4.8 
   
   
   
   
 
Gross profit  117,004   104,606   12,398   11.9 
Selling, general and administrative  87,730   80,209   7,521   9.4 
Depreciation and amortization  2,681   2,044   637   31.2 
   
   
   
   
 
Income from operations  26,593   22,353   4,240   19.0 
Floorplan interest expense  (3,413)  (2,943)  470   16.0 
Other interest expense  (1,510)  (1,581)  (71)  (4.5)
Other, net  (272)  (252)  20   7.9 
   
   
   
   
 
Income before income taxes  21,398   17,577   3,821   21.7 
Income tax expense  8,517   6,848   1,669   24.4 
   
   
   
   
 
Net income $12,881  $10,729  $2,152   20.1%
   
   
   
   
 
New units sold  16,056   14,972   1,084   7.2%
Average selling price per new vehicle $26,746  $26,064  $682   2.6 
Used units sold — retail  11,732   11,538   194   1.7 
Average selling price per retail used vehicle $14,358  $14,472  $(114)  (0.8)
Used units sold – wholesale  7,207   6,923   284   4.1 
Average selling price per wholesale used vehicle $4,503  $4,690  $(187)  (4.0)
Finance and insurance sales per retail unit $932  $834  $98   11.8%
                   
    Nine Months Ended      
    September 30,     %
    
 Increase Increase
    2003 2002 (Decrease) (Decrease)
    
 
 
 
Revenues:                
 New vehicle sales $1,134,504  $958,651  $175,853   18.3%
 Used vehicle sales  574,205   568,415   5,790   1.0 
 Service, body and parts  195,267   169,997   25,270   14.9 
 Finance and insurance  70,486   60,186   10,300   17.1 
 Fleet and other  4,833   39,112   (34,279)  (87.6)
   
   
   
   
 
  Total revenues  1,979,295   1,796,361   182,934   10.2 
Cost of sales  1,663,896   1,515,226   148,670   9.8 
   
   
   
   
 
Gross profit  315,399   281,135   34,264   12.2 
Selling, general and administrative  249,342   221,485   27,857   12.6 
Depreciation and amortization  7,406   5,607   1,799   32.1 
   
   
   
   
 
Income from operations  58,651   54,043   4,608   8.5 
Floorplan interest expense  (10,954)  (8,162)  2,792   34.2 
Other interest expense  (4,506)  (4,637)  (131)  (2.8)
Other, net  (724)  (334)  390   116.8 
   
   
   
   
 
Income before income taxes  42,467   40,910   1,557   3.8 
Income tax expense  16,902   15,855   1,047   6.6 
   
   
   
   
 
Net income $25,565  $25,055  $510   2.0%
   
   
   
   
 

13


                 
  Nine Months Ended      
  September 30,     %
  
 Increase Increase
  2003 2002 (Decrease) (Decrease)
  
 
 
 
New units sold  43,108   37,249   5,859   15.7%
Average selling price per new vehicle $26,318  $25,736  $582   2.3 
Used units sold �� retail  32,811   32,482   329   1.0 
Average selling price per retail used vehicle $14,503  $14,521  $(18)  (0.1)
Used units sold – wholesale  20,547   19,180   1,367   7.1 
Average selling price per wholesale used vehicle $4,786  $5,044  $(258)  (5.1)
Finance and insurance sales per retail unit $928  $863  $65   7.5%

Revenues.Total revenues increased 5.9%The following tables set forth the changes in the third quarter of 2003 compared to the third quarter of 2002 as a result of acquisitions, which were partially offset by an overall same store retail sales decrease of 0.6% Total revenues increased 10.2%our operating results from continuing operations in the first nine monthsquarter of 20032004 compared to the first nine monthsquarter of 20022003:

(Dollars in thousands)

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

Increase
(Decrease)

 

%
Increase
(Decrease)

 

2004

 

2003

Revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

New vehicle sales

 

$

353,601

 

$

308,494

 

$

45,107

 

14.6

%

Used vehicle sales

 

189,906

 

172,096

 

17,810

 

10.3

 

Service, body and parts

 

69,426

 

56,485

 

12,941

 

22.9

 

Finance and insurance

 

23,385

 

20,410

 

2,975

 

14.6

 

Fleet and other

 

1,531

 

2,075

 

(544

)

(26.2

)

Total revenues

 

637,849

 

559,560

 

78,289

 

14.0

 

Cost of sales

 

531,615

 

471,073

 

60,542

 

12.9

 

Gross profit

 

106,234

 

88,487

 

17,747

 

20.1

 

Selling, general and administrative

 

85,187

 

74,229

 

10,958

 

14.8

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

2,954

 

2,131

 

823

 

38.6

 

Income from operations

 

18,093

 

12,127

 

5,966

 

49.2

 

Floorplan interest expense

 

(3,616

)

(3,546

)

70

 

2.0

 

Other interest expense

 

(1,740

)

(1,388

)

352

 

25.4

 

Other income (expense), net

 

(339

)

(147

)

192

 

130.6

 

Income from continuing operations before taxes

 

12,398

 

7,046

 

5,352

 

76.0

 

Income tax expense

 

4,836

 

2,731

 

2,105

 

77.1

 

Income from continuing operations

 

$

7,562

 

$

4,315

 

$

3,247

 

75.2

%

 

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

Increase
(Decrease)

 

%
Increase
(Decrease)

 

2004

 

2003

New units sold

 

12,845

 

12,010

 

835

 

7.0

%

Average selling price per new vehicle

 

$

27,528

 

$

25,686

 

$

1,842

 

7.2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Used units sold - retail

 

10,777

 

9,752

 

1,025

 

10.5

 

Average selling price per retail used vehicle

 

$

14,634

 

$

14,498

 

$

136

 

0.9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Used units sold – wholesale

 

6,087

 

6,147

 

(60

)

(1.0

)

Average selling price per wholesale used vehicle

 

$

5,289

 

$

4,996

 

$

293

 

5.9

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finance and insurance sales per retail unit

 

$

990

 

$

938

 

$

52

 

5.5

 

10



Revenues

Total revenues increased 14.0% in the first quarter of 2004 compared to the first quarter of 2003 as a result of acquisitions and 1.6%1.7% growth in same storesame-store retail sales.

Same store retail  Same-store sales percentage increases (decreases) for the 2003 periods compared to the 2002 periods were as follows:

         
  Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
  September 30, 2003 September 30,2003
  
 
New vehicles  1.5%  6.9%
Retail used vehicles  (7.9)  (9.7)
Service, body and parts  3.9   0.6 
Finance and insurance  5.0   6.1 

The automotive retailing industry reported declines in

First quarter of 2004 vs
first quarter of 2003

New vehicles

1.4

%

Retail used vehicles

(0.4

)

Service, body and parts

8.0

Finance and insurance

2.7

Total retail sales

1.7

Same-store sales are calculated by dealership comparing only those months that contain full-month operating data.

Both domestic and import new vehicle sales continue to be spurred by manufacturer incentives.  While the used vehicle market has been negatively affected by strong new vehicle sales, it showed signs of approximately 0.2% and 1.6%, respectively, for the same three and nine month periods of 2003 compared to 2002. The industry has reported an approximate 6.0% decrease in sales of Chrysler products, which is our largest brand,stabilization in the first nine monthsquarter of 20032004. While used vehicle same-store sales declined slightly, our used vehicle same-store gross profit has increased in the first quarter of 2004 compared to the first nine monthsquarter of 2002. Our same-store Chrysler sales have increased approximately 6.3% in the same period. We have same-store sales increases in the nine month period ended September 30, 2003 compared to the same period of 2002 for all domestic brands, which is counter to national trends. We are able to generate positive sales trends that run contrary to industry and specific brand trends due to our operating model that is focused on increasing market share at the stores and the market dynamics of smaller, non-metropolitan, western markets where domestic trucks and SUVs are still the staple.2003.

Slowing economies in our markets and higher than normal new vehicle inventories at the end of 2002, coupled with a strong new vehicle incentive environment, spurred our aggressive approach to new vehicle sales in the first three quarters of 2003. We have utilized an aggressive company-wide marketing campaign based on the “Driving America” theme that is aimed at increasing market share by competitively pricing new vehicles in order to secure a long-term customer base for future parts and service business and repeat and referral business.

The increases in new vehicle sales also led to increasesincrease in same-store finance and insurance sales, as we have been able to maintain our high penetration rate for such sales.

The industry used vehicle business was weak in the first nine months of 2003 due to competition from highly incentivized new vehicles within the overall weaker total vehicle market. However, in the second and third quarters of 2003, Lithia’s used vehicle business demonstrated improvement over the first quarter of the year. We were able to substantially improve our used vehicle margins by 160 basis points and 80 basis points in the third quarter of 2003 compared to the first two quarters of 2003, respectively. The improvements in used vehicle margins in the 2003 periods more than offset the

14


declines in same-store sales resulting in positive same-store gross profit growth for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2003.

The service, body and parts business has been negatively impacted in the past couple of years by substantial improvements in the quality of domestic vehicles, resulting in less warranty work, offset in part by increasesrevenue resulted from an increase in the customer-pay portion of the business.  However,Improvements in the third quarterquality of 2003 we saw positive trends with thedomestic vehicles have resulted in a decline in domestic warranty repairs slowingwork, although that decline has slowed in comparisonrecent quarters.  Import brands, however, continue to declinesdemonstrate increases in previous quarterssame-store warranty sales.

Fleet and customer-pay serviceother sales include both fleet sales and parts growth increasing 4.5%fees received for delivering vehicles on behalf of the manufacturer, the U.S. military, rent-a-car companies or leasing companies.  In 2003 we decided to deemphasize fleet sales due to their low margins.  This has resulted in a decrease in total fleet and 3.8%, respectively, on a same store basisother sales, but an increase in the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2003gross margin percentage due to a higher percentage of fee income compared to the same periods of 2002.fleet income.

Penetration rates for certain products were as follows:

                 
  Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended
  September 30, September 30,
  
 
  2003 2002 2003 2002
  
 
 
 
Finance and insurance  76%  76%  75%  75%
Service contract  42   40   42   40 
Lifetime oil and filter  34   32   35   30 

During

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

2004

 

2003

 

Finance and insurance

 

75

%

76

%

Service contracts

 

44

 

41

 

Lifetime oil change and filter

 

36

 

34

 

Gross Profit

Gross profit increased $17.7 million in the first three quartersquarter of 2003, manufacturers offered, and are continuing2004 compared to offer, incentives, including low interest rates and rebates, in order to attract new vehicle buyers. The availabilitythe first quarter of cash rebates and zero percent and low interest rate financing have enhanced our ability to sell finance, warranty and insurance products and services.

Gross Profit.Gross profit increased2003 due to increased total revenues. Certain incentives and rebates received from manufacturers, including floorplan interest credits and advertising credits that are tied to specific vehicles are recordedrevenues as a reduction to cost of goods sold at the time of vehicle sale.well as an increase in our overall gross margin. Gross profit margins achieved were as follows:

             
  Three Months Ended September 30,  
  
 Lithia
  2003 2002 Margin Change*
  
 
 
New vehicles  7.6%  8.2% (60)bp
Retail used vehicles  14.6   12.5   210 
Service and parts  47.3   47.5   (20)
Finance and insurance  99.9   99.5   40 
Overall  16.1%  15.2%  90 
             
  Nine Months Ended September 30,  
  
 Lithia
  2003 2002 Margin Change*
  
 
 
New vehicles  7.6%  8.5% (90)bp
Retail used vehicles  13.8   12.6   120 
Service and parts  47.3   47.9   (60)
Finance and insurance  99.7   99.4   30 
Overall  15.9%  15.7%  20 

 

 

Three Months Ended
March 31,

 

Lithia

 

 

 

2004

 

2003

 

Margin Change*

 

New vehicles

 

7.5

%

7.4

%

10

bp

Retail used vehicles

 

14.2

 

13.0

 

120

 

Service and parts

 

47.3

 

47.6

 

(30

)

Finance and insurance

 

99.3

 

99.7

 

(40

)

Overall

 

16.7

 

15.8

 

90

 


*“bp”

* “bp” stands for basis points (one hundred basis points equals one percent).

Our

11



The increase in the overall gross profit margin increased in the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2003first quarter of 2004 compared to the same periodsfirst quarter of 2002 due2003 is primarily to increasesa result of improvements in the margins achieved on our used vehicle business as well as an increase in our high margin service and parts revenue as a percentage of total revenue. We have been able to improve the margins on our used vehicle sales as a result of selling older aged vehicles which carry a higher margin and improved inventory management. These increases in the used vehicle gross profit margin also contributed to a same store increase in total gross margin dollars per used vehicle sold.

The improvements in our gross profit margin were offset by the following factors:

A significant shift towards our lowest margin new vehicle business as a result of the strong incentive environment;

15


Lower floorplan interest credits from the manufacturers on new vehiclesprimarily due to lower market rates;the strategies discussed above regarding the auctioning of our used vehicles and
our “Used Vehicle Promo Pricing.”

Aggressive pricing of new vehicles in order to gain market share, which resulted in lower new vehicle margins.

Selling, General and Administrative Expense.Expense

Selling, general and administrative expense includes salaries and related personnel expenses, facility lease expense, advertising (net of manufacturer cooperative advertising credits), legal, accounting, professional services and general corporate expenses.  Selling, general and administrative expense increased $11.0 million in the first quarter of 2004 compared to the first quarter of 2003, but increased only 10 basis points as a percentage of revenue.  The increase in dollars spent is due to increased selling, or variable, expenses related to the increase in revenues and the number of locations. As a percentage

Depreciation and Amortization

Depreciation and amortization increased $0.8 million in the first quarter of revenue, selling, general and administrative expense increased 30 basis points in both the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 20032004 compared to the same periodsfirst quarter of 2002. The increases as a percentage2003 due to the addition of revenue are due partially to higher advertisingproperty and sales compensation expensesequipment primarily related to our aggressive new vehicle marketing.acquisitions.

Income from Operations.Operations

Operating margins improved by 4060 basis points in the three months ended September 30, 2003 comparedfirst quarter of 2004 to the same period of 2002 and was flat2.8% from 2.2% in the nine month period ended September 30, 2003 compared to the nine month period ended September 30, 2002.first quarter of 2003.  The increase in the three month period is due to the improved overall gross profit margin as discussed above, partially offset by higher operating expenses as a percentage of revenue.

Floorplan Interest Expense.ExpenseThe increases in floorplan

Floorplan interest expense was relatively flat in the three and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2003first quarter of 2004 compared to the same periodsfirst quarter of 2002 are primarily due to an approximately $509,000 and $2.36 million, respectively,2003. A $213,000 increase in expense as a result of an increase in the average outstanding balances of our floorplan facilities, mainly due to acquisitions. In addition, increased expenseacquisitions, and an increase of $200,000 resulting from our interest rate swaps was responsible for $367,000 and $0.9 million, respectively, of the increase. These increases were mostly offset in part by a decrease in the LIBOR and the prime raterates in the first nine monthsquarter of 20032004 compared to the first nine monthsquarter of 2002.2003.

Other Interest Expense.ExpenseOther

Other interest expense includes interest on debt incurred related to acquisitions, real estate mortgages, our used vehicle line of credit and equipment related notes. Changes in the weighted average interest rate on our debt in the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2003first quarter of 2004 compared to the same periodsfirst quarter of 20022003 increased (decreased) other interest expense by $152,000approximately $153,000 and $(401,000), respectively. Changeschanges in the average outstanding balances in the 2003 periodsfirst quarter of 2004 compared to the 2002 periodsfirst quarter of 2003 resulted in increases (decreases) to other interest expense of $(223,000) and $270,000, respectively.approximately $199,000.

Income Tax Expense.Expense

Our effective tax rate was 39.8%39.0% in the first nine monthsquarter of 20032004 compared to 38.8% in the first nine monthsquarter of 2002.2003. Our effective tax rate may be affected in the future by the mix of asset acquisitions compared to corporate acquisitions, as well as by the mix of states where our stores are located.

Net Income from Continuing Operations.Net income

Income from continuing operations as a percentage of revenue increased 20 basis points and decreased 10 basis points, respectively, forin the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2003first quarter of 2004 compared to the same periodsfirst quarter of 2002.2003 as a result of improvements in gross margins being offset by increased operating expenses as discussed above.

Discontinued Operations

During 2003, we decided to sell certain of our stores and related franchises. We did not dispose of any stores during the first quarter of 2004. At March 31, 2004, we had $15.7 million of assets classified as assets held for sale on our balance sheet related to one store we intend to sell during 2004. The increase in the three month period isassets primarily dueinclude inventory and property, plant and equipment.  Liabilities held for

12



sale of $8.9 million at March 31, 2004 represent new vehicle flooring notes payable related to the increase instores held for sale.

We continually monitor the overall gross profit margin discussed above, offset in part by higher operating expensesperformance of each of our stores and income taxes as a percentage of revenue.make determinations to sell based on return on capital criteria.

Seasonality and Quarterly Fluctuations

Historically, our sales have been lower in the first and fourth quarters of each year due to consumer purchasing patterns during the holiday season, inclement weather and the reduced number of business days during the holiday season.  As a result, financial performance may be lower during the first and fourth quarters than during the other quarters of each fiscal year. We believe that interest rates, levels of consumer debt and consumer confidence, as well as general economic conditions,

16


also contribute to fluctuations in sales and operating results. Historically, the timing, performance and frequency of acquisitions havehas been the largest contributor to fluctuations in our operating results from quarter to quarter.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Our principal needs for capital resources are to finance acquisitions and capital expenditures, as well as for working capital. We have relied primarily upon internally generated cash flows from operations, borrowings under our credit agreements and the proceeds from public equity offerings to finance operations and expansion. In addition, in May 2004, we closed an $85.0 million public debt offering. We believe that our available cash, cash equivalents, available lines of credit, cash received from our public debt offering in May 2004 and cash flows from operations will be sufficient to meet our anticipated operating expenses and capital requirements for at least twelve24 to 36 months from September 30,March 31, 2004.

Our free cash flow, defined as net income plus depreciation minus dividends and maintenance (unfinanceable) capital expenditures was approximately $6.9 million and $5.1 million, respectively, in the first quarter of 2004 and 2003.  Management believes that free cash flow is an important metric for evaluating the strength and viability of our business model. The reconciliation of net income to free cash flow is as follows (in thousands):

Three Months Ended March 31,

 

2004

 

2003

 

Net income

 

$

7,479

 

$

4,165

 

Depreciation

 

2,954

 

2,131

 

Dividends

 

(1,304

)

 

Maintenance capital expenditures

 

(2,258

)

(1,179

)

Free cash flow

 

$

6,871

 

$

5,117

 

Our inventories increased slightly to $448.0$482.2 million at September 30, 2003March 31, 2004 from $445.9$445.3 million at December 31, 20022003 due primarily to acquisitions, offset by efficiencies gained from the implementation of our new centralized inventory control process.  Accordingly, ourOur new and used flooring notes payable increased to $434.5$466.1 million at September 30, 2003March 31, 2004 from $427.6$435.2 million at December 31, 2002. Despite the overall increase in inventories, our2003 due to acquisitions.  New vehicles are financed at approximately 100% and used vehicles are financed at approximately 80%. Our days supply of new vehicles decreased by approximately 195 days at September 30, 2003March 31, 2004 compared to December 31, 2002 and decreased by approximately 15 days compared to June 30, 2003. Our days supply of used vehicles decreased by approximately 20 days at September 30, 2003 compared toMarch 31, 2004 was consistent with December 31, 2002 and decreased by approximately 8 days compared to June 30, 2003.  Our used vehicle inventories are at historically low levels for this time of year compared to the last five years.  We believe that our new and used vehicle inventories are at appropriate levels at this time.

Primarily as

Assets of discontinued operations held for sale include inventory and property, plant and equipment related to one store held for sale and are recorded on our balance sheet at the lower of book value or estimated fair market value, less applicable selling costs.

As a result of the acquisition of eighttwo stores in the first nine monthsquarter of 2003,2004, our goodwill and other intangibles increased $28.1$8.1 million to $234.3$244.0 million at September 30, 2003March 31, 2004 compared to $206.2$236.0 million at December 31, 2002.2003.

13



In July 2003,February 2004, our Board of Directors approved a dividend on our Class A and Class B common stock of $0.07 per share for the secondfourth quarter of 2003. The dividend2003, which totaled approximately $1.3 million and was paid on August 22, 2003 to shareholders of record on August 8, 2003.million.  In October 2003,April 2004, our Board of Directors approved a dividend on our Class A and Class B common stock of $0.07 per share for the thirdfirst quarter of 2003. The dividend2004, which will also total approximately $1.3 million and will be paid on November 21, 2003 to shareholders of record on November 7, 2003.million.  We anticipate recommending to the Board of Directors the approval of a cash dividend each quarter.

In June 2000, our Board of Directors authorized the repurchase of up to 1,000,000 shares of our Class A common stock.  Through October 2003,April 2004, we have purchased a total of 59,400 shares under this program and may continue to do so from time to time in the future as conditions warrant.  However, the recent change in the tax law tends to equalize the benefits of dividends and share repurchases as a means to return capital or earnings to shareholders. As a result, we believe it is now advantageous to shareholders to have a dividend in place.  With the dividend, we are able to offer an immediate and tangible return to our shareholders without reducing our already limited market float, which occurs when we repurchase shares.

In February 2003 we entered into

We have a working capital and used vehicle flooring credit facility with DaimlerChrysler Services North America LLC and Toyota Motor Credit totaling up to $200 million, which expires in February 2006, with interest due monthly.

Our previous $150 million used vehicle flooring This credit facility with Ford Motor Credit Company was terminated and paid off on February 25, 2003.

The credit line with DaimlerChrysler Services is cross-collateralized and secured by cash and cash equivalents, new and used vehicle andvehicles that are not specifically financed by other lenders, parts inventories, accounts receivable, intangible assets and

17


equipment.  We pledged to DaimlerChrysler Services and Toyota Motor Credit the stock of all of our subsidiaries except entities operating BMW, Honda, Nissan or Toyota stores.

The financial covenants in our agreement with DaimlerChrysler Services and Toyota Motor Credit require us to maintain compliance with, among other things, (i) a specified current ratio; (ii) a specified fixed charge coverage ratio; (iii) a specified interest coverage ratio; (iv) a specified adjusted leverage ratio; and (v) certain working capital levels.   At September 30, 2003,March 31, 2004, we were in compliance with all of the covenants of this agreement.

Toyota Motor Credit Corporation,

Ford Motor Credit and General Motors Acceptance Corporation have agreed to floor all of our new vehicles for their respective brands with DaimlerChrysler Services and Toyota Motor Credit Corporation serving as the primary lenderlenders for substantially all other brands.  These new vehicle lines are secured by new vehicle inventory of the relevant brands.

We also have a real estate line of revolving credit with Toyota Motor Credit totaling $40 million, which expires in May 2005. This line of credit is secured by the real estate financed under this line of credit.

In April 2003, our

We have a credit facility with U.S. Bank N.A. agreement was amended to provide, which provides for a $35.0$50.0 million revolving line of credit for leased vehicles and equipment purchases whichand expires January 31, 2005. Previously, the amount available under this line of credit was $27.5 million and it was set to expire January 31, 2004.2006.

Interest rates on all of the above facilities ranged from 2.66%2.61% to 3.87%3.84% at September 30, 2003.March 31, 2004.  Amounts outstanding on the lines at September 30, 2003March 31, 2004 together with amounts remaining available under such lines were as follows (in thousands):

         
  Outstanding at Remaining Availability as
  September 30, 2003 of September 30, 2003
  
 
New and program vehicle lines $376,337  $*
Working capital and used vehicle line  80,000   112,000**
Real estate line  15,903   24,097 
Equipment/leased vehicle line  35,000    
   
   
 
  $507,240  $136,097*
   
   
 

 

 

Outstanding at
March 31, 2004

 

Remaining Availability as
of March 31, 2004

 

New and program vehicle lines

 

$

407,179

 

$

0

*

Working capital and used vehicle line

 

74,000

 

126,000

**

Real estate line

 

9,018

 

30,982

 

Equipment/leased vehicle line

 

50,000

 

 

 

 

$

540,197

 

$

156,982

* **


*There are no formal limits on the new and program vehicle lines with certain lenders.
**As limited by the terms of the line regarding the borrowing base.

*  There are no formal limits on the new and program vehicle lines with certain lenders.

** As limited by the terms of the line regarding the borrowing base.

14



At September 30, 2003,In May 2004, we sold $85 million of 2.88% senior subordinated convertible notes due 2014 through a Rule 144A offering to qualified institutional buyers. Net proceeds from this offering were approximately $82.5 million and were used to pay down our long-term debtworking capital and lease commitments were as follows (in thousands):used vehicle line and new vehicle flooring notes payable. The notes are convertible into shares of our Class A common stock at a price of $37.69 per share upon the satisfaction of certain conditions and upon the occurrence of certain events.  The notes are redeemable at our option beginning May 6, 2009 at the redemption price of 100% of the principal amount plus any accrued interest.  The holders of the notes can require us to repurchase all or some of the notes on May 1, 2009 and upon certain events constituting a fundamental change.

             
  Long-term    
Year Ending December 31, debt Leases Total

 
 
 
2003 $2,422  $5,442  $7,864 
2004  3,707   20,274   23,981 
2005  40,556   19,829   60,385 
2006  83,624   19,015   102,639 
2007  11,768   18,026   29,794 
Thereafter  60,648   72,538   133,186 
   
   
   
 
Total $202,725  $155,124  $357,849 
   
   
   
 
A fundamental change is any transaction or event in which all or substantially all of our common stock is exchanged for, converted into, acquired for, or constitutes solely the right to receive, consideration that is not all, or substantially all, common stock that is listed on, or immediately after the transaction or event, will be listed on, a United States national securities exchange.

At September 30, 2003, we

We had capital commitments totaling approximately $11.1of $6.0 million at March 31, 2004 for the construction of one new store facility, additions to twofive existing facilities and the remodel of fivethree facilities. The new facility will be a Hyundai store in Anchorage, Alaska.  We have already incurred $2.9$4.6 million for these commitments and anticipate incurring $9.3projects, with the remaining $6.0 million expected to be incurred during the remaining quarterremainder of 2003 and the remaining $1.8 million in 2004. We expect to pay for the construction out of existing cash balances until completion of the projects, at which time we anticipate securing long-term financing and general borrowings from third party lenders for 70% to 90% of the amounts expended.

Critical Accounting Policies and Use of Estimates

We reaffirm our critical accounting policies and use of estimates as described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31, 2003.15, 2004, except for the addition of the following that only applies to our quarterly filings.

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Executive Bonuses

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

See Note 13We make certain estimates, judgments and assumptions regarding the likelihood of Notesour attainment, and the level thereof, of the annual executive bonus criteria in order to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

record bonus expense on a quarterly basis. These estimates, judgments and assumptions are made quarterly based on available information.  If actual results differ significantly from our estimates, the amount of bonus expense recorded in a particular quarter could be significantly over or under stated. We accrue the anticipated expense on an accelerated basis in the first, second and third quarters based on bonus attainment expectations.

Item 3.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

There have been no material changes in our reported market risks or risk management policies since the filing of our 20022003 Annual Report on Form 10-K, which

h was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 31, 2003.15, 2004.

15



Item 4.Controls and Procedures

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

Our management has evaluated, under the supervision and with the participation of our President and Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this report pursuant to Rule 13a-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”). Based on that evaluation, our President and Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of the end of the period covered by this report, our disclosure controls and procedures are effective in ensuring that information required to be disclosed in our Exchange Act reports is (1) recorded, processed, summarized and reported in a timely manner, and (2) accumulated and communicated to our management, including our President and Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.

Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during our last fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 6.Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

(a) Exhibits

The following exhibits are filed herewith and this list is intended to constitute the exhibit index:

3.1

3.1

Restated Articles of Incorporation (filed as Exhibit 3.1 to Form 10-K filed March 30, 2000 and incorporated herein by reference).

3.2

3.2

Bylaws (filed as Exhibit 3.2 to Form S-1, Registration Statement No. 333-14031, as declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 18, 1996 and incorporated herein by reference).

4.1

10.1

Second Amendment,

Indenture dated April 2, 2003, to Amended and Restated Loan Agreement, dated December 28, 2001,May 4, 2004, between Lithia Financial Corporation, Lithia Motors, Inc., Lithia Aircraft, Inc. and Lithia SALMIR,motors, Inc. and U.S. Bank National Association. Incorporated by referenceAssociation, as Trustee, relating to 2.875% Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014.

10.1

Second Amendment, dated as of December 4, 2003, to Credit Agreement dated February 25, 2003, between DaimlerChrysler Services North America LLC, as Agent and Lithia Motors, Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2003 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on May 15, 2003.

10.2

10.2

2003 Stock Incentive Plan (Filed as Exhibit 99.1 to Form 8-K filed April 28, 2003 and incorporated herein by reference).

10.3Executive Bonus Plan (filed as Exhibit 99.2 to Form 8-K filed April 28, 2003 and incorporated herein by reference).

10.41998 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as amended (filed as Exhibit 10.4 to Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2003 as filed August 14, 2003 and incorporated herein by reference).

10.5Modification No. 12, dated June 16,as of November 1, 2003, to Amended and Restated Revolving Loan and Security Agreement and Notes Secured by Deed of Trust (filedTrust.

10.3

Modification No. 3, dated as Exhibit 10.5of February 20, 2004, to Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2003 as filed August 14, 2003Amended and incorporated hereinRestated Revolving Loan and Security Agreement and Notes Secured by reference).Deed of Trust.

31.1

31.1

Certification of Sidney B. DeBoer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

31.2

31.2

Certification of Jeffrey B. DeBoer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.1

32.1

Certification of Sidney B. DeBoer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

32.2

32.2

Certification of Jeffrey B. DeBoer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

(b) Reports on Form 8-K

The followingThere were no reports on Form 8-K were filed during the quarter ended September 30, 2003:March 31, 2004.

Dated and filed July 24, 2003 pursuant to Item 9. Regulation FD Disclosure regarding operating results for the quarter ended June 30, 2003; and

16

Dated and filed July 24, 2003 pursuant to Item 9. Regulation FD Disclosure regarding the declaration of a cash dividend.

19


SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

Date:   May 10, 2004

LITHIA MOTORS, INC.

Date: November 13, 2003

LITHIA MOTORS, INC

By

By

/s/ JEFFREY B. DEBOER


Jeffrey B. DeBoer

Senior Vice President and

Chief Financial Officer (Principal

(Principal Financial Officer)

By

By

/s/ LINDA A. GANIM


Linda A. Ganim

Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer (Principal

(Principal Accounting Officer)

2017