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                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                             WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
 
                              -------------------------------------------
 
                                   FORM 10-Q
 
/X/  QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE
     ACT OF 1934.
 
     FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED NOVEMBER 24, 1996FEBRUARY 16, 1997
 
/ /  TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(D) OF THE SECURITIES
     EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
     FOR THE TRANSITION PERIOD FROM       TO
 
                         COMMISSION FILE NUMBER 0-20355
 
                             PRICE/COSTCO COMPANIES, INC.
             (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
                                                    DELAWARE                                            33-0572969
      (State or other                                      (I.R.S. Employer(I.R.S.Employer
      jurisdiction of                                      Identification
     incorporation or                                           No.)
       organization)
999 LAKE DRIVE ISSAQUAH, WASHINGTON 98027 (Address of principal executive office) (206) 313-8100 (Registrant's telephone number, including area code) 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/X/ NO __/ / The registrant had 196,773,068211,133,408 common shares, par value $.01, outstanding at November 30, 1996. -March 14, 1997. - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- - - -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PRICE/COSTCO COMPANIES, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES INDEX TO FORM 10-Q PART I--FINANCIAL INFORMATION
PAGE -------------- ITEM 1--FINANCIAL STATEMENTS............................................................................... 3 Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.................................................................... 912 Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.......................................................... 1013 Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.......................................................... 1114 Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements..................................................... 1215 ITEM 2--MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS.............. 3
PART II--OTHER INFORMATION ITEM 1--LEGAL PROCEEDINGS.................................................................................. 7PROCEEDINGS............................................................. 8 ITEM 2--CHANGES IN SECURITIES.............................................................................. 7SECURITIES......................................................... 8 ITEM 3--DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES.................................................................... 8SECURITIES............................................... 9 ITEM 4--SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS................................................ 8HOLDERS........................... 9 ITEM 5--OTHER INFORMATION.................................................................................. 8INFORMATION............................................................. 9 ITEM 6--EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K................................................................... 88-K.............................................. 10 Exhibit 3(a) Restated And Amended Certificate of Incorporation of Costco Companies, Inc. Exhibit (27) Financial Data Schedule Exhibit (28) Report of Independent Public Accountants.................................................... 15Accountants............................... 19
2 PART I--FINANCIAL INFORMATION ITEM 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Price/Costco Companies, Inc.'s (the "Company" or "PriceCostco""Costco"; formerly Price/Costco, Inc.) unaudited condensed consolidated balance sheet as of November 24, 1996,February 16, 1997, and the condensed consolidated balance sheet as of September 1, 1996, unaudited condensed consolidated statements of operations for the 12- and 24-week periods ended February 16, 1997, and February 18, 1996, and unaudited condensed consolidated statements of cash flows for the 12-week24-week periods then ended November 24, 1996, and November 26, 1995 are included elsewhere herein. Also, included elsewhere herein are notes to the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and the results of the limited review performed by Arthur Andersen LLP, independent public accountants. The Company reports on a 52/53-week fiscal year, consisting of 13 four-week periods and ending on the Sunday nearest the end of August. Fiscal 1997 is a 52-week year with period 13 ending on August 31, 1997. The first, second, and third quarters consist of 12 weeks each and the fourth quarter consists of 16 weeks. ITEM 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS It is suggested that this management discussion be read in conjunction with the management discussion included in the Company's fiscal 1996 annual report on Form 10-K previously filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. COMPARISON OF THE 12 WEEKS ENDED NOVEMBER 24,FEBRUARY 16, 1997 AND FEBRUARY 18, 1996 AND NOVEMBER 26, 1995 (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA) Net operating resultsincome for the firstsecond quarter of fiscal 1997 reflect net income of $31,810,increased 36% to $97,449, or $.16$0.46 per share (fully diluted), compared to net income of $49,553,from $71,426, or $.25$0.35 per share (fully diluted), during the first quarter of fiscal 1996. The net income in the first quarter of fiscal 1997 includes a non-cash, pretax charge of $65,000 ($38,675 after-tax) reflecting a provision for the impairment of long-lived assets as required by the Company's adoption of Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 121. Excluding the $65,000 ($38,675 after-tax) asset impairment charge, net income for the first quarter of fiscal 1997 would have been $70,485, or $.34 per share (fully diluted). The Company also recorded in the first quarter of fiscal 1997, a pretax provision for warehouse closing costs of $5,000, or $.01 per share on an after-tax basis (fully-diluted). This provision primarily includes estimated closing costs for four warehouses closed in the first quarter of fiscal 1997 and additional costs related to warehouse clubs closed in the prior year. There were no warehouse closing costs in the firstsecond quarter of fiscal 1996. Net sales increased 11%12% to $4,785,636$5,147,425 during the firstsecond quarter of fiscal 1997 from $4,295,862$4,606,070 during the firstsecond quarter of fiscal 1996. This increase was primarily due to an increase in comparable warehouse sales and opening a net of 148 warehouses (19 opened--14 new, warehouses (25 opened,5 relocated and 11 closed) since the end of the firstsecond quarter of fiscal 1996 and an increase in comparable warehouse sales.1996. Comparable sales, that is sales in warehouses open for at least a year, increased 89 percent during the firstsecond quarter of fiscal 1997, compared to the first quarter of fiscal 1996, reflecting new marketing and merchandising efforts, including the rollout of fresh foods and various ancillary businesses to certain existing locations. Changes in prices of merchandise did not materially contribute to sales increases. Membership fees and other revenue increased 11% to $97,772$91,468 or 2.04%1.78% of net sales in the firstsecond quarter of fiscal 1997 from $87,702$82,625 or 2.04%1.79% of net sales in the firstsecond quarter of fiscal 1996. Membership fees include new membership sign-ups at the 14new warehouses (net) opened since the end of the firstsecond quarter of fiscal 1996. The increase in membership fees also reflects the increase in the annual membership fee for the Business "Add-on" members from $15 to $20, effective with renewals in the United States subsequent to April 1, 1996. Currently, there are approximately 3.4 million U.S. Business "Add-on" members. Gross margin (defined as net sales minus merchandise costs) increased 17% to $477,267$528,217 or 9.97%10.26% of net sales in the firstsecond quarter of fiscal 1997 from $408,746,$452,078 or 9.51%9.81% of net sales in the firstsecond quarter of fiscal 3 1996. The 4645 basis point increase in gross margin as a percentage of net sales reflects strong first half physical inventory results, the Company's greater purchasing power, expanded use of its depot facilities, improved fresh foods margins, improved softlines margins, and increased sales penetration of certain higher gross margin ancillary businesses. The gross margin figures reflect accounting for merchandise costs on the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method. The second quarters of fiscal 1997 and 1996 each included a $2,500 LIFO provision. Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percent of net sales decreased to 8.47% during the second quarter of fiscal 1997 from 8.51% during the second quarter of fiscal 1996. This improvement in 3 selling, general and administrative expenses as a percent of net sales was due to the operating expense leverage from the increase in comparable warehouse sales noted above, resulting in a year-over-year improvement at the Company's core warehouse operations and Central and Regional administrative offices. This expense improvement was partially offset by higher expenses as a percent of net sales associated with international expansion and certain ancillary businesses. Preopening expenses totaled $6,087 or 0.12% of net sales during the second quarter of fiscal 1997 compared to $5,970 or 0.13% of net sales during the second quarter of fiscal 1996. Two warehouses were opened in the second quarter of fiscal 1997 (including a relocated warehouse), compared to eight new locations opened during the last year's second quarter (including a relocated warehouse). Preopening expenses also includes costs related to remodel activity, including expanded fresh foods and ancillary operations at existing warehouses. Interest expense totaled $17,243 in the second quarter of fiscal 1997 compared to $17,501 in the second quarter of fiscal 1996. The decrease in interest expense is primarily related to the call for redemption of both the Company's 6 3/4%($285.1 million principal amount) and 5 1/2% ($179.3 million principal amount) Convertible Subordinated Debentures during the second quarter of fiscal 1997, which resulted in a net reduction of debt by over $300 million following the completion of these two transactions. See "Note 2--Debt". This decrease in interest expense was partially offset by the redemption premium paid to debenture holders who elected to redeem their debentures and the issuance in April 1996 of a $140,000 unsecured note payable. Interest income and other totaled $3,461 in the second quarter of fiscal 1997 compared to $2,287 in the second quarter of fiscal 1996. The increase is primarily due to the Company incurring an elimination in its share of losses in certain unconsolidated joint ventures and improved earnings in its Mexico joint venture operation. The effective income tax rate on earnings in the second quarter of fiscal 1997 was 40.50% compared to a 41.25% effective tax rate in the second quarter of fiscal 1996. The decrease in the effective tax rate was related primarily to decreases in foreign taxes. COMPARISON OF THE 24 WEEKS ENDED FEBRUARY 16, 1997 AND FEBRUARY 18, 1996 (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA) Net operating results for the first half of fiscal 1997 reflect net income of $129,259, or $0.62 per share (fully diluted), compared to net income of $120,979, or $0.59 per share (fully diluted), during the first half of fiscal 1996. Net income in the first half of fiscal 1997 included a non-cash, pretax charge of $65,000 ($38,675 after-tax) reflecting a provision for the impairment of long-lived assets as required by the Company's adoption of Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 121. Excluding the $65,000 ($38,675 after-tax) asset impairment charge, net income for the first half of fiscal 1997 would have increased 39% to $167,934, or $0.79 per share (fully diluted). The Company also recorded in the first half of fiscal 1997, a pretax provision for warehouse closing costs of $5,000, or $0.01 per share on an after-tax basis (fully diluted). This provision primarily includes estimated closing costs for five warehouses closed in the first half of fiscal 1997 and additional costs related to warehouses closed in the prior year. There were no warehouse closing costs in the first half of fiscal 1996. Net sales increased 12% to $9,933,061 during the first half of fiscal 1997 from $8,901,932 during the first half of fiscal 1996. This increase was primarily due to an increase in comparable warehouse sales and opening a net of 8 warehouses (19 opened--14 new, 5 relocated and 11 closed) since the end of the second quarter of fiscal 1996. Comparable sales, that is sales in warehouses open for at least a year, increased 9 percent during the first half of fiscal 1997, reflecting new marketing and merchandising efforts, including the rollout of fresh foods and various ancillary businesses to certain existing locations. Changes in prices of merchandise did not materially contribute to sales increases. 4 Membership fees and other revenue increased to $189,240 or 1.91% of net sales in the first half of fiscal 1997 from $170,327 or 1.91% of net sales in the first half of fiscal 1996. Membership fees include membership sign-ups at the new warehouses opened since the end of the second quarter of fiscal 1996. The increase in membership fees also reflects the increase in the annual membership fee for the Business "Add-on" members from $15 to $20, effective with renewals in the United States subsequent to April 1, 1996. Currently, there are approximately 3.4 million U.S. Business "Add-on" members. Gross margin (defined as net sales minus merchandise costs) increased 17% to $1,005,483 or 10.12% of net sales in the first half of fiscal 1997 from $860,824 or 9.67% of net sales in the first half of fiscal 1996. The 45 basis point increase in gross margin reflects strong first half physical inventory results, the Company's greater purchasing power, expanded use of the Company's depot facilities, improved fresh foods margins, improved softlines margins, and increased sales penetration of certain higher gross margin ancillary businesses. The gross margin figures reflect accounting for merchandise costs on the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method. The first quarterhalf of fiscal 1997 and 1996 and 1995 each includedinclude a $2,500$5,000 LIFO provision. Selling, general and administrative expenses as a percent of net sales decreased to 8.90%8.68% during the first quarterhalf of fiscal 1997 from 8.98%8.74% during the first quarterhalf of fiscal 1996. This improvement in selling, general and administrative expenses as a percent of net sales was due to the increase in comparable warehouse sales noted above;above, and a year-over-year improvement at the Company's core warehouse operations and Central and Regional administrative offices, which was partially offset by higher expenses as a percent of net sales associated with international expansion and certain ancillary businesses. Preopening expenses totaled $10,197$16,284 or 0.21%0.16% of net sales during the first quarterhalf of fiscal 1997 compared to $9,450$15,420 or 0.22%0.17% of net sales during the first quarterhalf of fiscal 1996. NineEleven warehouses were opened in the first quarterhalf of fiscal 1997 (including threefour relocated warehouses), compared to fourtwelve new locations during the last year's first quarter.half (including a relocated warehouse). Preopening expenses also includes costs related to remodels, including expanded fresh foods and ancillary operations at existing warehouses. Interest expense totaled $18,933$36,176 in the first quarterhalf of fiscal 1997 compared to $17,771$35,272 in the first quarterhalf of fiscal 1996. The increase in interest expense is primarily related to the issuance in April 1996 of a $140,000 unsecured note payable.payable and the redemption premium paid to debenture holders who elected to redeem their debentures. This increase is offset by lower interest expense in the second quarter on convertible subordinated debentures following the redemption/conversion of the Company's 6 3/4% ($285.l million principal amount) and 5 1/2% ($179.3 million principal amount) Convertible Subordinated Debentures. Interest income and other totaled $3,657$7,119 in the first quarterhalf of fiscal 1997 compared to $1,091$3,378 in the first quarterhalf of fiscal 1996. The increase is primarily due to the Company reflecting a reductionincurring an elimination in its share of losses in certain unconsolidated joint ventures and improved earnings in theits Mexico joint venture.venture operation. The effective income tax rate on earnings in the first quarterhalf of fiscal 1997 was 40.50% compared to a 41.25% effective tax rate in the first quarterhalf of fiscal 1996. The decrease in the effective tax rate was related primarily to decreases in foreign taxes. LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS) The discussion below contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, and should be read in conjunction with the Company's reports filed previously with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially. 5 EXPANSION PLANS PriceCostco'sCostco's primary requirement for capital is the financing of the land, building and equipment costs for new warehouses plus the costs of initial warehouse operations and working capital requirements, as well as additional capital for international expansion through investments in foreign subsidiaries and joint ventures. While there can be no assurance that current expectations will be realized, and plans are subject to change upon further review, it is management's current intention to spend an aggregate of approximately $400,000 to $450,000$425,000 during fiscal 1997 in the United States and Canada for real estate, construction, remodeling and equipment for warehouse clubs and related operations; and approximately $80,000 to $100,000 for international expansion, including the United Kingdom, Asia and other potential ventures. These expenditures will be financed with a combination of cash provided from operations, the use of cash and cash equivalents (which totaled $101,955$87,548 at September 1, 1996)February 16, 1997), short-term borrowings under revolving credit facilities and/or commercial paper facilities, and other financing sources as required. Expansion plans for the United States and Canada during fiscal 1997 are to open approximately 20 new warehouse clubs, including seven relocations. Through the end of the first 12 weekshalf of fiscal 1997, the Company has opened nineten warehouses in the United States (including the relocation of its North Orlando, 4 Florida; South San Jose, California; and Albuquerque, New Mexicofour warehouses) and, closed outright itsone warehouse in St. Laurent, Canada.Canada, and opened one warehouse in Taiwan in January 1997. The Company also expects to continue expansion of its international operations and plans to open one to two additional United Kingdom units through its 60%-owned subsidiary during the second half of fiscal 1997. Other markets are being assessed, particularly in the Pacific Rim, and include the planned opening of a warehouse club in Taiwan in January 1997. PriceCostcoRim. Costco Companies, Inc. and its Mexico-based joint venture partner, Controladora Comercial Mexicana, each own a 50% interest in Price Club Mexico following the Company's acquisition of Price Enterprises' interest in Price Club Mexico in April, 1995. Price Club Mexico's expansion plans include the opening ofone to two new warehouse clubs during fiscal 1997. As of November 24, 1996,February 16, 1997, Price Club Mexico operated 13 Price Club warehouses in Mexico. BANK LINES OF CREDIT AND COMMERCIAL PAPER PROGRAMS (ALL AMOUNTS STATED IN US DOLLARS) The Company has a domestic multiple-option loan facility with a group of 12 banks, which provides for borrowings of up to $500,000 or standby support for a $500,000 commercial paper program. Of this amount, $250,000 expires on January 27, 1997,26, 1998, and $250,000 expires on January 30, 2001. The interest rate on bank borrowings is based on LIBOR or rates bid at auction by the participating banks. At November 24, 1996,February 16, 1997, no amounts wereamount was outstanding under the loan facility and $86,000$156,000 was outstanding under the commercial paper program. The Company expects to renew for an additional one-year term the $250,000 portion of the loan facility expiring on January 27, 1997 at substantially the same terms. In addition, a wholly-owned Canadian subsidiary has a $105,000$148,000 commercial paper program supported by a $104,000 bank credit facility with three Canadian banks, of which $64,000$63,000 will expire in MarchApril 1997 and $41,000 will expire in March 1999. The interest rate on bank borrowings is based on the prime rate or the "Bankers' Acceptance" rate. At November 24, 1996,February 16, 1997, no amount was outstanding under the bank credit facility and $77,000$63,000 was outstanding under the Canadian commercial paper program. The Company expects to renew for an additional one-year term the $64,000$63,000 portion of the loan facility expiring in MarchApril 1997, at substantially the same terms. The Company has agreed to limit the combined amount outstanding under the U.S. and Canadian commercial paper programs to the $604,000 combined amounts of the respective supporting bank credit facilities. LETTERS OF CREDIT The Company also has separate letter of credit facilities (for commercial and standby letters of credit), totaling approximately $176,000.$179,000. The outstanding commitments under these facilities at November 24, 1996February 16, 1997 6 totaled approximately $67,000,$72,000, including approximately $31,000$37,000 in standby letters of credit for workers' compensation requirements. DEBENTURE REDEMPTIONS (ACTUAL DOLLARS, NOT IN THOUSANDS)REDEMPTION/CONVERSION OF CONVERTIBLE SUBORDINATED DEBENTURES On November 19, 1996, The Price Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, gave notice of its intention to redeemcalled for redemption all $285.1 million$285,100 of its 6 3/4% Convertible Subordinated Debentures due 2001 (the "Debentures"). As of2001. On the redemption date, December 4, 1996, approximately $159.4 million$159,400 principal amount of the Debentures were converted into approximately 7.1 million shares of PriceCostcoCostco Companies, Inc. Common Stock and the remaining $125.7 million$125,700 of Debentures were redeemed at a total cost of $130.3 million$130,300 (including accrued interest and redemption premium). The redemption portion of the transaction was financed with short-term bank borrowings. On December 16, 1996, The Price Company a wholly-owned subsidiary of PriceCostco, gave notice of its intention to redeemcalled for redemption all $179.3 million$179,300 of its 5 1/2% Convertible Subordinated Debentures due 2012 (the "Debentures"). Holders2012. On the redemption date, January 6, 1997, approximately $142,700 principal amount of the Debentures have until the close of business January 6, 1997, to either: (i) convert their Debentureswere converted into Common Stock of PriceCostco, Inc. at the conversion price of $23.77 per share (or approximately 42.07 shares of Common Stock per $1,000 principal amount of Debentures); or (ii) redeem their Debentures at a redemption price of $1,024.60 per $1,000 principal amount, which includes a redemption premium of $5.50 and accrued interest to January 6, 1997 of $19.10 per $1,000 5 principal amount. If all the Debentures are converted, approximately 7.546.0 million shares of Costco Companies, Inc. Common Stock would be issued. Holders who elect to convert their Debentures will forgo both the call premium and the remaining $36,600 of Debentures were redeemed at a total cost of $37,500 (including accrued interest from August 31, 1996. If alland redemption premium). The redemption portion of the Debentures are redeemed, the approximately $183.7 million of proceeds required to complete the redemption, which includes the redemption premium and current accrued interest, will be financedtransaction was paid with cash and short-term borrowings. See "Note (5)--Subsequent Events" for additional information regarding these transactions.on hand. FINANCIAL POSITION AND CASH FLOWS Due to rapid inventory turnover, the Company's operations provide a higher level of supplier trade payables in relation to inventory than generally encountered in other forms of retailing. When combined with other current liabilities, the resulting amount typically approaches or exceeds the current assets needed to operate the business (e.g., merchandise inventories, accounts receivable and other current assets). WorkingThe working capital deficit totaled approximately $12,000($100,700) at November 24, 1996February 16, 1997, compared to working capital of $57,000 at September 1, 1996. The decrease in net working capital was primarily due to (i)the short-term financing of the Company's seasonal working capital requirements through short-term borrowings; and (ii) capital expenditures in excessredemption of operating cash flows.the Convertible Subordinated Debentures. Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities totaled $80,812$247,746 in the first 12 weekshalf of fiscal 1997 compared to ($76,329)$90,059 in the first 12 weekshalf of fiscal 1996. The increase in net cash from operating activities is primarily a result of increased net income, adjusted for the increase in merchandise inventories being financed by a higher levelnon-cash provision for asset impairments, and reduced net inventory requirements during the first 24 weeks of supplier accounts payable.this fiscal year versus last fiscal year. Net cash used in investing activities totaled $174,561$285,539 in the first 12 weekshalf of fiscal 1997 compared to $145,270$275,077 in the first 12 weekshalf of fiscal 1996. The investing activities primarily related to additions to property and equipment for new and remodeled warehouses of $164,764$285,113 and $131,676$265,076 in the first 12 weekshalf of fiscal 1997 and 1996, respectively. The Company opened nine warehouses (including three relocated warehouses) in the first 12 weeks of fiscal 1997 compared to four warehouses in the first 12 weeks of fiscal 1996. Net cash provided by financing activities totaled $100,487$23,155 in the first 12 weekshalf of fiscal 1997 compared to $188,937$179,144 in the first 12 weekshalf of fiscal 1996. In both periodsThis decrease is primarily the Company utilized its bank lines and commercial paper programsresult of utilizing short-term borrowings to finance operations and expansion plans. Net proceeds from short-term borrowings totaled $102,650 and $171,813the repayment of long-term debt in the first 12 weeks of fiscal 1997 compared to investments in property and 1996 respectively.equipment in fiscal 1996. The Company's balance sheet as of November 24, 1996February 16, 1997 reflects a $608,738$313,512 or 12.4%6% increase in total assets since September 1, 1996. The increase is primarily due to higher inventory levels associated with seasonal inventory needs leading into the Christmas holiday season, and a net increase in property and equipment primarily related to the Company's expansion program. 67 PART II--OTHER INFORMATION (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS) ITEM 1. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS On April 6, 1992, The Price Company was served with a Complaint in an action entitled FECHT ET AL. V.v. THE PRICE COMPANY ET AL., Case No. 92-497, United States District Court, Southern District of California (the "Court"). Subsequently, on April 22, 1992, The Price Company was served with a First Amended Complaint in the action. The case was dismissed without prejudice by the Court on September 21, 1992, on the grounds the plaintiffs had failed to state a sufficient claim against defendants. Subsequently, plaintiffs filed a Second Amended Complaint which, in the opinion of the Company's counsel, alleged substantially the same facts as the prior complaint. The Complaint alleged violation of certain state and federal laws during the time period prior to Price'sThe Price Company's earnings release for the second quarter of fiscal year 1992. The case was dismissed with prejudice by the Court on March 9, 1993, on grounds the plaintiffs had failed to state a sufficient claim against defendants. Plaintiffs filed an Appeal in the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. In an opinion dated November 20, 1995, the Ninth Circuit reversed and remanded the lawsuit. In February 1997, the Court granted the plaintiffs' motion for certification of a class consisting of all purchasers of the Common Stock of The Price Company from April 3, 1991 through April 2, 1992. The Company believes that this lawsuit is without merit and is vigorously defending the lawsuit. The Company does not believe that the ultimate outcome of such litigation will have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations. On December 19, 1994, a Complaint was filed against PriceCostco and certain current and former directors in an action entitled SNYDER V. PRICE/COSTCO, INC. ET. AL., Case No. C94-1874Z, United States District Court, Western District of Washington. On January 4, 1995, a Complaint was filed against PriceCostco in an action entitled BALSAM V. PRICE/COSTCO, INC. ET. AL., Case No. C95-0009Z, United States District Court, Western District of Washington. The Snyder and Balsam Cases were subsequently consolidated and on March 15, 1995, plaintiffs' counsel filed a First Amended And Consolidated Class Action And Derivative Complaint. On November 9, 1995, plaintiffs' counsel filed a Second Amended And Consolidated Class Action And Derivative Complaint. The Second Amended Complaint alleged violation of certain state and federal laws arising from the spin-off and Exchange Transactionexchange transaction (whereby Price Enterprises, Inc. became a separate, publicly-traded Company)company), and the merger between Costco and The Price and Costco.Company. In July 1996, an agreement in principle was reached to resolve the lawsuit. Subject to court approval, the resolution will involve the transfer from Price Enterprises, Inc. to the Company of certain intangible assets, including elimination of certain existing non-compete restrictions and operating agreements and the termination or amendment of certain trademark license and assignment agreements. The cash portion of the settlement will be funded by the Company's director and officer insurance coverage and by Price Enterprises. The Company will contribute no money to the settlement. In May 1996, PriceCostcothe Company reached an agreement in principle with the Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Justice to settle an enforcement action under the Federal Clean Air Act. The action is based on claims that PriceCostcothe Company failed to maintain required documentation related to its sale of freon products. Under the terms of the proposed settlement, PriceCostcothe Company agreed to pay a civil penalty of $232 and to comply with federal regulations relating to the sale of ozone-depleting substances. The Company is involved from time to time in claims, proceedings and litigation arising from its business and property ownership. The Company does not believe that any such claim, proceeding or litigation, either alone or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations. ITEM 2. CHANGES IN SECURITIES None. 78 ITEM 3. DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES None. ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS The Company's annual meeting is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.of stockholders was held on January 29, 1997 at the DoubleTree Paradise Valley Resort in Scottsdale, Arizona. MattersStockholders of record at the close of business on December 6, 1996 were entitled to be voted onnotice of and to vote in person or by proxy at the annual meeting. At the date of record, there were included203,861,799 shares outstanding. Certain matters presented for vote received the required majority approval and had the following total, for, against and abstained votes as noted below. (1) To elect three Class I directors to hold office until the 2000 Annual Meeting of Stockholders and, in each case, until his successor is elected and qualified.
W/H AUTHORITY TOTAL AND SHARES FOR AGAINST ABSTAINED VOTED/(%) VOTES/(%) VOTES/(%) VOTES/(%) ---------- ---------- --------- --------------- Jeffrey H. Brotman..... 175,119,511 170,628,182 -- 4,491,329 (Class I) 85.9% 83.7% 2.2% James D. Sinegal....... 175,119,511 170,630,686 -- 4,488,825 (Class I) 85.9% 83.7% 2.2% Richard A. Galanti..... 175,119,511 165,210,311 -- 9,909,200 (Class I) 85.9% 81.0% 4.9%
(2) To amend The Price/Costco, Inc. 1993 Combined Stock Grant and Stock Option Plan to increase the number of shares of common stock available for issuance from 10 million shares to 20 million shares.
W/H AUTHORITY TOTAL AND SHARES FOR AGAINST ABSTAINED VOTED/(%) VOTES/(%) VOTES/(%) VOTES/(%) ---------- ---------- --------- --------------- 175,119,511 141,861,981 31,043,334 2,214,196 85.9% 69.6% 15.2% 1.1%
(3) To authorize the amendment of the Company's proxy statement filed withCertificate of Incorporation to change the Securitiesname of the Company from Price/Costco, Inc. to Costco Companies, Inc.
W/H AUTHORITY TOTAL AND SHARES FOR AGAINST ABSTAINED VOTED/(%) VOTES/(%) VOTES/(%) VOTES/(%) ---------- ---------- --------- --------------- 175,119,511 171,376,961 1,559,823 2,182,727 85.9% 84.0% 0.8% 1.1%
(4) To consider and Exchange Commission and distributed to stockholdersratify the selection of record prior to the meeting.Company's independent public accountants, Arthur Andersen LLP.
W/H AUTHORITY TOTAL AND SHARES FOR AGAINST ABSTAINED VOTED/(%) VOTES/(%) VOTES/(%) VOTES/(%) ---------- ---------- --------- --------------- Arthur Andersen LLP.... 175,119,511 174,728,995 138,469 252,047 85.9% 85.7% 0.1% 0.1%
ITEM 5. OTHER INFORMATION None. 9 ITEM 6. EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K (a) The following exhibits are included herein or incorporated by reference: 3(a) Restated And Amended Certificate of Incorporation of Costco Companies, Inc. (27) Financial Data Schedule (28) Report of Independent Public Accountants (b) No reports on Form 8-K were filed for the 12 weeks ended November 24, 1996.February 16, 1997. 10 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. PRICE/COSTCO COMPANIES, INC. REGISTRANT /s/ JAMES D. SINEGAL -------------------------------------------------------------------- Date: December 19, 1996March 31, 1997 James D. Sinegal PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER /s/ RICHARD A. GALANTI -------------------------------------------------------------------- Date: December 19, 1996March 31, 1997 Richard A. Galanti EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER 811 PRICE/COSTCO COMPANIES, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS)
NOVEMBERFEBRUARY 16, SEPTEMBER 24,1, 1997 1996 1, 1996 ----------- ----------- (UNAUDITED)------------ ------------ (UNAUDITED) ASSETS CURRENT ASSETS Cash and cash equivalents...........................................equivalents............................................................. $ 111,01187,548 $ 101,955 Receivables, net.................................................... 169,822net...................................................................... 167,865 137,467 Merchandise inventories, net........................................ 1,992,675net.......................................................... 1,660,210 1,500,842 Other current assets................................................ 74,748assets.................................................................. 78,338 88,040 ----------- ----------------------- ------------ Total current assets............................................ 2,348,256assets................................................................ 1,993,961 1,828,304 ----------- ----------------------- ------------ PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT Land land rights, and land improvements............................ 1,278,565 1,273,811rights.................................................................. 1,068,494 1,055,208 Buildings and leasehold improvements................................ 1,568,310 1,449,094and land improvements......................................... 1,830,443 1,667,697 Equipment and fixtures.............................................. 766,683fixtures................................................................ 790,238 716,448 Construction in progress............................................ 64,345progress.............................................................. 72,584 104,183 ----------- ----------- 3,677,903------------ ------------ 3,761,759 3,543,536 Less accumulated depreciation and amortization...................... (693,279)amortization........................................ (720,382) (655,226) ----------- ----------------------- ------------ Net property and equipment........................................ 2,984,624equipment.......................................................... 3,041,377 2,888,310 ----------- ----------------------- ------------ OTHER ASSETS........................................................ 187,719ASSETS.......................................................................... 190,035 195,247 ----------- ----------- $5,520,599------------ ------------ $ 5,225,373 $4,911,861 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY CURRENT LIABILITIES Bank checks outstanding.............................................outstanding............................................................... $ --12,832 $ 22,330 Short-term borrowings............................................... 162,565borrowings................................................................. 218,564 59,928 Accounts payable.................................................... 1,651,520payable...................................................................... 1,319,321 1,220,426 Accrued salaries and benefits....................................... 270,346benefits......................................................... 300,223 256,951 Accrued sales and other taxes....................................... 90,809taxes......................................................... 89,581 84,545 Other current liabilities........................................... 160,959liabilities............................................................. 154,114 127,414 ----------- ----------------------- ------------ Total current liabilities......................................... 2,336,199liabilities........................................................... 2,094,635 1,771,594 LONG-TERM DEBT...................................................... 1,231,174DEBT........................................................................ 765,421 1,229,221 DEFERRED INCOME TAXES AND OTHER LIABILITIES......................... 34,508LIABILITIES........................................... 37,030 60,902 ----------- ----------------------- ------------ Total liabilities................................................. 3,601,881liabilities................................................................... 2,897,086 3,061,717 ----------- ----------------------- ------------ MINORITY INTERESTS.................................................. 89,138INTERESTS.................................................................... 89,271 72,346 ------------ ------------ STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Preferred stock $.01 par value; 100,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding.....................................outstanding.......................................................................... -- -- Common stock $.01 par value; 900,000,000 shares authorized; 196,658,000210,796,000 and 196,436,000 shares issued and outstanding......... 1,967outstanding............................................ 2,108 1,964 Additional paid-in capital.......................................... 324,535capital............................................................ 646,624 321,832 Accumulated foreign currency translation............................ (54,617)translation.............................................. (64,860) (71,883) Retained earnings................................................... 1,557,695earnings..................................................................... 1,655,144 1,525,885 ----------- ----------------------- ------------ Total stockholders' equity........................................ 1,829,580equity.......................................................... 2,239,016 1,777,798 ----------- ----------- $5,520,599------------ ------------ $ 5,225,373 $4,911,861 ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------------------- ------------ ------------ ------------
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 912 PRICE/COSTCO COMPANIES, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA) (UNAUDITED)
12 WEEKS ENDED 24 WEEKS ENDED -------------------------- NOVEMBER 24, NOVEMBER 26,-------------------------- FEBRUARY 16, FEBRUARY 18, FEBRUARY 16, FEBRUARY 18, 1997 1996 19951997 1996 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ REVENUE Net sales......................................................................... $4,785,636 $4,295,862sales................................................ $ 5,147,425 $ 4,606,070 $ 9,933,061 $ 8,901,932 Membership fees and other......................................................... 97,772 87,702other................................ 91,468 82,625 189,240 170,327 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Total revenue................................................................... 4,883,408 4,383,564revenue.......................................... 5,238,893 4,688,695 10,122,301 9,072,259 OPERATING EXPENSES Merchandise costs................................................................. 4,308,369 3,887,116costs........................................ 4,619,208 4,153,992 8,927,578 8,041,108 Selling, general and administrative............................................... 426,104 385,973administrative...................... 436,036 391,943 862,140 777,916 Preopening expenses............................................................... 10,197 9,450expenses...................................... 6,087 5,970 16,284 15,420 Provision for impaired assets and warehouse closing costs.........................costs.................................................. -- -- 70,000 -- ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Operating income................................................................ 68,738 101,025income....................................... 177,562 136,790 246,299 237,815 OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE) Interest expense.................................................................. (18,933) (17,771 )expense......................................... (17,243) (17,501) (36,176) (35,272) Interest income and other......................................................... 3,657 1,091other................................ 3,461 2,287 7,119 3,378 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ INCOME BEFORE PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES.......................................... 53,462 84,345TAXES................. 163,780 121,576 217,242 205,921 Provision for income taxes........................................................ 21,652 34,792taxes............................... 66,331 50,150 87,983 84,942 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ NET INCOME........................................................................INCOME............................................... $ 31,810(a)97,449 $ 49,55371,426 $ 129,259(a) $ 120,979 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ NET INCOME PER COMMON AND COMMON EQUIVALENT SHARE--FULLY DILUTED: Net income........................................................................income............................................... $ 0.16(a)0.46 $ 0.250.35 $ 0.62(a) $ 0.59 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ Shares used in calculation (000's)................................................ 199,630 217,311....................... 223,296 224,737 218,549 217,431 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
- - ------------------------ (a) Net income and net income per common and common equivalent share would have been $70,485$167,934 and $.34,$0.79, respectively, without the effect of adopting FAS No. 121, using 227,096225,822 fully-diluted shares. The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 1013 PRICE/COSTCO COMPANIES, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS) (UNAUDITED)
1224 WEEKS ENDED -------------------------- NOVEMBER 24, NOVEMBER 26, 1996 1995 ------------ ------------ FEBRUARY 16, FEBRUARY 18, 1997 1996 ------------ ------------ CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net income...........................................................................income............................................................................ $ 31,810129,259 $ 49,553120,979 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities: Depreciation and amortization...................................................... 37,442 34,556amortization....................................................... 79,909 71,963 Provision for asset impairments....................................................impairments..................................................... 65,000 -- IncreaseDecrease (increase) in merchandise inventories................................................ (483,954) (397,935)inventories...................................... (155,362) 21,572 Increase (decrease) in accounts payable....................................................... 424,154 207,297 Other.............................................................................. 6,360 30,200payable............................................. 96,502 (132,608) Other............................................................................... 32,438 8,153 ------------ ------------ Total adjustments................................................................ 49,002 (125,882)adjustments................................................................. 118,487 (30,920) ------------ ------------ Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities................................ 80,812 (76,329)activities........................................... 247,746 90,059 ------------ ------------ CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Additions to property and equipment.................................................. (164,764) (131,676)equipment................................................... (285,113) (265,076) Proceeds from the sale of property and equipment..................................... 1,072 395 Other................................................................................ (10,869) (13,989)equipment...................................... 7,603 2,554 Investment in unconsolidated joint ventures........................................... -- (5,000) Other................................................................................. (8,029) (7,555) ------------ ------------ Net cash used in investing activities.............................................. (174,561) (145,270)activities............................................... (285,539) (275,077) ------------ ------------ CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES Net proceeds from short-term borrowings.............................................. 102,650 171,813borrowings............................................... 159,477 159,809 Increase (decrease) in bank checks outstanding....................................... (22,467) 17,501outstanding........................................ (9,618) 7,604 Net proceeds from long-term borrowings............................................... 2,587borrowings................................................ 2,589 -- Payments on long-term debt and notes payable......................................... (1,075) (893)payable.......................................... (164,624) (1,413) Proceeds from minority interests, net................................................ 16,086 (391)net................................................. 16,669 10,588 Exercise of stock options, including income tax benefit.............................. 2,706 907benefit............................... 18,662 2,225 Other................................................................................. -- 331 ------------ ------------ Net cash provided by financing activities.......................................... 100,487 188,937activities........................................... 23,155 179,144 ------------ ------------ EFFECT OF EXCHANGE RATE CHANGES ON CASH.............................................. 2,318 (150)CASH............................................... 231 682 ------------ ------------ Net increase (decrease)decrease in cash and cash equivalents............................... 9,056 (32,812)equivalents........................................... (14,407) (5,192) CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR.......................................YEAR........................................ 101,955 45,688 ------------ ------------ CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF PERIOD...........................................PERIOD............................................ $ 111,01187,548 $ 12,87640,496 ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION: Cash paid during the period for: Interest (net of amounts capitalized) (a)..................................................................................... $ 28,87045,763 $ 9,95222,670 Income taxes....................................................................... 8,319 17,491taxes (b).................................................................... 65,400 104,714
- - ------------------------ (a) Semi-annual interest payments on the 5 1/2% and 6 3/4% convertible debentures were paid on September 3, 1996, subsequent to the beginning of the first quarter of fiscal 1997, which began September 2, 1996. In fiscal year 1996, these interest payments were paid prior to the first quarter, which began on September 4, 1996.1995. (b) The second quarter of fiscal 1997 estimated tax payments were due and paid subsequent to the end of the second quarter. In fiscal 1996, these payments were made prior to the end of the second quarter. The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements. 1114 PRICE/COSTCO COMPANIES, INC. NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA) (UNAUDITED) NOTE (1)--SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES BASIS OF PRESENTATION The unaudited consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Price/Costco Companies, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and its subsidiaries ("PriceCostco"Costco Companies, Inc." or the "Company"). PriceCostcoCostco Companies, Inc. is a holding company which operates primarily through its major subsidiaries, The Price Company and subsidiaries ("Price"), and Costco Wholesale Corporation and subsidiaries ("Costco"). All intercompany transactions between the Company and its subsidiaries have been eliminated in consolidation. Price and Costco primarily operate cash and carry membership warehouses. PriceCostcowarehouses, primarily under the "Costco Wholesale" name. Costco Companies, Inc. operates membership warehouses that offer very low prices on a limited selection of nationally-branded and selected private label products in a wide range of merchandise categories in no-frills, self-service warehouse facilities. As of November 24, 1996, PriceCostcoFebruary 16, 1997, Costco Companies, Inc. operated 257258 warehouses under the "Costco Wholesale" and "Price Club" and "Costco Wholesale" names: 198 warehouses in the United States (23 states), 54 warehouses in nine Canadian provinces, and five warehouses in the United Kingdom.Kingdom, and one warehouse in Taiwan. As of November 24, 1996,February 16, 1997, the Company also operated (through a 50%-owned joint venture) 13 warehouses in Mexico and had a license agreement for the operation of a membership warehouse in Seoul, Korea. The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles for interim financial reporting and pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. While these statements reflect all normal recurring adjustments which are, in the opinion of management, necessary for fair presentation of the results of the interim period, they do not include all of the information and footnotes required by generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial statements. For further information, refer to the financial statements and footnotes thereto included in the Company's annual report filed on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended September 1, 1996. FISCAL YEARS The Company reports on a 52/53-week fiscal year, ending on the Sunday nearest the end of August. Fiscal 1997 is a 52-week fiscal year, with the first, second and third quarters consisting of 12 weeks each and the fourth quarter, ending August 31, 1997, consisting of 16 weeks. MERCHANDISE INVENTORIES Merchandise inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market as determined by the retail inventory method, and are stated using the last-in, first-out (LIFO) method for U.S. merchandise inventories, and the first-in, first-out (FIFO) method for foreign merchandise inventories. If the FIFO method had been used, merchandise inventory would have been $18,650$21,150 higher at both November 24, 1996February 16, 1997 and November 26, 1995.February 18, 1996. 15 NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA) (UNAUDITED) NOTE (1)--SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED) The Company provides for estimated inventory losses between physical inventory counts on the basis of a standard percentage of sales. This provision is adjusted to reflect the actual shrinkage results of the physical inventory counts which generally occur in the second and fourth fiscal quarters. 12 NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA) (UNAUDITED) NOTE (1)--SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED) NET INCOME PER COMMON AND COMMON EQUIVALENT SHARE Net income per common and common equivalent share is based on the weighted average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding. The calculation for the 12-week period12- and 24-week periods ended November 26, 1995,February 16, 1997 and February 18, 1996, eliminates interest expense, net of income taxes, on the 5 1/2% convertible subordinated debentures (primary and fully diluted) prior to the December 4, 1996 redemption date, the 6 3/4% convertible subordinated debentures (fully diluted only) prior to the January 6, 1997 redemption date, and the 65 3/4% convertible subordinated debentures (fully diluted only), and includes the additional shares issuable upon conversion of these debentures. ADOPTION OF FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING STANDARDS BOARD STATEMENT NO. 121 The Company has adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 121, "Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to Be Disposed Of " (SFAS No. 121), as of the first quarter of fiscal 1997. In accordance with SFAS No. 121, the Company recorded a pretax, non-cash charge of $65,000 reflecting its estimate of impairment relating principally to excess property and closed warehouses. The charge reflects the difference between carrying value and fairfair-market value, which was based on market valuations for those assets whose carrying value was not recoverable through future cash flows. RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT In February 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement No. 128, "Earnings per Share" (SFAS No. 128). SFAS No. 128 establishes new standards for computing and presenting earnings per share (EPS) for entities with publicly-held common stock. The Company is required to adopt SFAS No. 128 at the beginning of fiscal 1998. If the provisions of SFAS No. 128 had been used to calculate EPS for the 12- and 24-weeks ended February 16, 1997 and February 18, 1996, proforma EPS would have been:
12 WEEKS ENDED 24 WEEKS ENDED ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------- FEBRUARY 16, 1997 FEBRUARY 18, 1996 FEBRUARY 16, 1997 FEBRUARY 18, 1996 ------------------- ------------------- ------------------- ------------------- Basic.............. $ .47 $ .37 $ .64 $ .62 --- --- --- --- --- --- --- --- Diluted............ $ .46 $ .35 $ .62 $ .59 --- --- --- --- --- --- --- ---
RECLASSIFICATIONS Certain reclassifications have been reflected in the financial statements in order to conform prior years to the current year presentation. 16 NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA) (UNAUDITED) NOTE (1)--SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (CONTINUED) USE OF ESTIMATES The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. NOTE (2)--DEBT BANK LINES OF CREDIT AND COMMERCIAL PAPER PROGRAMS The Company has a domestic multiple optionmultiple-option loan facility with a group of 12 banks, which provides for borrowings of up to $500,000 or standby support for a $500,000 commercial paper program. Of this amount, $250,000 expires on January 27, 1997,26, 1998, and $250,000 expires on January 30, 2001. The interest rate on bank borrowings is based on LIBOR or rates bid at auction by the participating banks. At November 24, 1996, $86,000 was outstanding under the commercial paper program andFebruary 16, 1997, no amount was outstanding under the loan facility. The Company expects to renew for an additional one-year termfacility and $156,000 was outstanding under the $250,000 portion of the loan facility expiring on January 27, 1997 at substantially the same terms.commercial paper program. In addition, the Company'sa wholly-owned Eastern CanadaCanadian subsidiary has a $105,000$148,000 commercial paper program supported by a $104,000 bank credit facility with three Canadian banks, of which $64,000$63,000 will expire in MarchApril 1997 and $41,000 will expire in MarchApril 1999. The interest rate on bank borrowings is based on the prime rate or the "Bankers' Acceptance" rate. At November 24, 1996,February 16, 1997, no amount was outstanding under the bank credit facility and $77,000$63,000 was outstanding under the Canadian commercial paper program. The Company expects to renew for an additional one-year term the $64,000$63,000 portion of the loan facility expiring in MarchApril 1997, at substantially the same terms. The Company has agreed to limit the combined amount outstanding under the U.S. and Canadian commercial paper programs to the $604,000 combined amounts of the respective supporting bank credit facilities. LETTERS OF CREDIT The Company also has separate letter of credit facilities (for commercial and standby letters of credit), totaling approximately $176,000.$179,000. The outstanding commitments under these facilities at November 24, 1996February 16, 1997 totaled approximately $67,000,$72,000, including approximately $31,000$37,000 in standby letters of credit for workers' compensation requirements. 13REDEMPTION/CONVERSION OF CONVERTIBLE SUBORDINATED DEBENTURES On November 19, 1996, The Price Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, called for redemption all $285,100 of its 6 3/4% Convertible Subordinated Debentures due 2001. On the redemption date, December 4, 1996, approximately $159,400 principal amount of the Debentures were converted into approximately 7.1 million shares of Costco Companies, Inc. Common Stock and the remaining $125,700 of Debentures were redeemed at a total cost of $130,300 (including accrued interest and redemption premium). The redemption portion of the transaction was financed with short-term bank borrowings. 17 NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA) (UNAUDITED) NOTE (2)--DEBT (CONTINUED) On February 21,December 16, 1996, The Price Company called for redemption all $179,300 of its 5 1/2% Convertible Subordinated Debentures due 2012. On the Company filedredemption date, January 6, 1997, approximately $142,700 principal amount of the Debentures were converted into approximately 6.0 million shares of Costco Companies, Inc. Common Stock and the remaining $36,600 of Debentures were redeemed at a total cost of $37,500 (including accrued interest and redemption premium). The redemption portion of the transaction was paid with the Securities and Exchange Commission a shelf registration statement relating to $500,000 of senior debt securities. The registration statement was declared effectivecash on February 29, 1996. As part of that filing, the Company announced its intention to offer $300,000 of senior notes to refinance existing indebtedness. The Company has deferred issuance of these notes due to unfavorable interest rate market conditions.hand. NOTE (3)--INCOME TAXES The following is a reconciliation of the federal statutory income tax rate to the effective income tax rate for income before income taxes:
1224 WEEKS ENDED 1224 WEEKS ENDED NOVEMBER 24,FEBRUARY 16, 1997 FEBRUARY 18, 1996 NOVEMBER 26, 1995 ---------------------- ------------------------------------------------- --------------------------- Federal statutory income tax rate..................................... $ 18,712rate...................... $76,035 35.00% $ 29,521$72,072 35.00% State, foreign and other income taxes, net............................ 2,940net............. 11,948 5.50% 5,27112,870 6.25% --------- ----- --------- ----- $ 21,652------------ ------------- ------------ ------------- $87,983 40.50% $ 34,792$84,942 41.25% --------- ----- --------- ----- --------- ----- --------- ----------------- ------------- ------------ ------------- ------------ ------------- ------------ -------------
NOTE (4)--COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES The Company is involved from time to time in claims, proceedings and litigation arising from its business and property ownership. The Company does not believe that any such claim, proceeding or litigation, either alone or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position or results of operations. See Legal Proceedings on page 78 for outstanding legal matters. NOTE (5)--SUBSEQUENT EVENTS (ACTUAL DOLLARS, NOT IN THOUSANDS) On November 19, 1996 The Price Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, gave notice of its intention to redeem all $285.1 million of its 6 3/4% Convertible Subordinated Debentures due 2001 (the "Debentures"). Holders of the Debentures had until the close of business December 4, 1996 to either: (i) convert their Debentures into Common Stock of PriceCostco, Inc. at a conversion price of $22.535 per share (or approximately 44.38 shares of Common Stock per $1,000 principal amount of Debentures); or (ii) redeem their Debentures at a redemption price of $1,036.74 per $1,000 principal amount, which included a redemption premium of $19.30 and accrued interest of $17.44 per $1,000 principal amount. Approximately $159.4 million principal amount of the Debentures were converted into approximately 7.1 million shares of PriceCostco Common Stock and the remaining $125.7 million of Debentures were redeemed at a total cost of $130.3 million (including accrued interest and redemption premium). The redemption portion of the transaction was financed with short-term bank borrowings. On December 16, 1996, The Price Company, a wholly-owned subsidiary of PriceCostco, gave notice of its intention to redeem all $179.3 million of its 5 1/2% Convertible Subordinated Debentures due 2012 (the "Debentures"). Holders of the Debentures have until the close of business January 6, 1997, to either: (i) convert their Debentures into Common Stock of PriceCostco, Inc. at the conversion price of $23.77 per share (or approximately 42.07 shares of Common Stock per $1,000 principal amount of Debentures); or (ii) redeem their Debentures at a redemption price of $1,024.60 per $1,000 principal amount, which includes a redemption premium of $5.50 and accrued interest to January 6, 1997 of $19.10 per $1,000 principal amount. If all the Debentures are converted, approximately 7.54 million shares of Common Stock 14 NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED) (DOLLARS IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA) (UNAUDITED) NOTE (5)--SUBSEQUENT EVENTS (ACTUAL DOLLARS, NOT IN THOUSANDS) (CONTINUED) would be issued. Holders who elect to convert their Debentures will forgo both the call premium and the accrued interest from September 1, 1996. If all the Debentures are redeemed, the approximately $183.7 million of proceeds required to complete the redemption, which includes the redemption premium and current accrued interest, will be financed with cash and short-term borrowings. 1518