Table of Contents

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

PRELIMINARY SCHEDULE 14A

 

Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (Amendment No.     )

 

Filed by the Registrant  x

 

Filed by a Party other than the Registrant  o

 

Check the appropriate box:

x

Preliminary Proxy Statement

o

Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by Rule 14a-6(e)(2))

o

Definitive Proxy Statement

o

Definitive Additional Materials

o

Soliciting Material Pursuant to §240.14a-12

 

BEST BUY CO., INC.

(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)

 

 

(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)

 

Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):

x

No fee required.

o

Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and 0-11.

 

(1)

Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies:

 

 

 

 

(2)

Aggregate number of securities to which transaction applies:

 

 

 

 

(3)

Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (set forth the amount on which the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined):

 

 

 

 

(4)

Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction:

 

 

 

 

(5)

Total fee paid:

 

 

 

o

Fee paid previously with preliminary materials.

o

Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange Act Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration statement number, or the Form or Schedule and the date of its filing.

 

(1)

Amount Previously Paid:

 

 

 

 

(2)

Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.:

 

 

 

 

(3)

Filing Party:

 

 

 

 

(4)

Date Filed:

 

 

 

 



Table of Contents

 

BEST BUY CO., INC.
7601 Penn Avenue South
Richfield, Minnesota 55423

 

NOTICE OF 20082009 REGULAR MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS

Time:

 

9:30 a.m., Central Time, on Wednesday, June 25, 200824, 2009

Place:

 

Best Buy Corporate Campus — Theater


7601 Penn Avenue South


Richfield, Minnesota 55423

 

 

 

Items of

Business:

 

1.

To elect fiveseven Class 12 directors to serve on our Board of Directors for a term of two years and to ratify the appointment of one Class 21 director.

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.

To ratify the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending February 28, 2009.27, 2010.

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.

To approve amendments to our 2008 Employee2004 Omnibus Stock Purchase Plan.and Incentive Plan, as amended.

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.

To approve an amendment to Article IX of our Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation (“Articles”) to require a majority voting standardchange the approval required for the election of directors.certain business combinations.

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.

To approve an amendment to Article IX of our Articles to decrease the shareholder approval required to amend Article IX.

6.

To approve an amendment to Article IX of our Articles to decrease the shareholder approval required to remove directors without cause.

7.

To approve an amendment to Article IX of our Articles to decrease the shareholder approval required to amend the classified board provisions in our Amended and Restated By-Laws.

8.

To approve an amendment to Article X of our Articles to decrease the shareholder approval required for certain repurchases of stock from substantial shareholders and make other related changes.

9.

To approve an amendment to Article X of our Articles to decrease the shareholder approval required to amend Article X.

10.

To transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting.

 

 

 

Record Date:

 

You may vote if you were a shareholder of record of Best Buy Co., Inc. as of the close of business on Monday, April 28, 2008.27, 2009.

 

 

 

Proxy Voting:

 

Your vote is important. You may vote via proxy:

 

1.

By visiting www.proxyvote.com on the Internet;

 

 

 

 

1.

By visiting www.proxyvote.com on the Internet;

 

 

2.

By calling (within the U.S. or Canada) toll-free at1-800-690-6903; or

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.

By signing and returning the enclosed proxy card.

 

Regardless of whether you expect to attend the meeting in person, please vote your shares in one of the three ways outlined above.

 

 

By Order of the Board of Directors

 

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Elliot S. Kaplan

[May 12, 2008]2009]

Secretary

2



Table of Contents

IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING THE AVAILABILITY OF PROXY MATERIALS FOR THE REGULAR MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS TO BE HELD ON JUNE 24, 2009:

This Notice of 2009 Regular Meeting of Shareholders and Proxy Statement and our Annual Report on Form
10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2009, are available at www.proxyvote.com.

 

Help us make a difference by eliminating paper proxy mailings to your home or business. As permitted by rules recently adopted by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, we are pleased to make thisour proxy statement and our annual report to shareholdersmaterials available electronically via the Internet. If you received by mail a Notice by mail,of Internet Availability, you will not receive a printed copy of the proxy materials. You may, however, opt to receive a printed copy of our proxy materials by following the instructions for requesting suchour proxy materials included in thesuch Notice.

 

3



Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

GENERAL INFORMATION

5

Background

5

Voting Procedure

6

Proxy Solicitation

8

Additional Information

8

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AT BEST BUY

9

Board Meetings and Attendance

9

Committees of the Board

9

Director Nomination Process

10

Director Independence

11

Board Composition

12

Executive Sessions of Non-Management, and Independent Directors

13

Communications With the Board of Directors

13

Director Orientation and Continuing Education

13

Director Compensation

14

ITEM OF BUSINESS NO. 1 — ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

17

General Information

17

Board Structure

17

Voting Information

17

Board Voting Recommendation

18

Nominees and Directors

18

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

23

SECTION 16(a) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE

26

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

27

Compensation Discussion and Analysis

27

Compensation Philosophy, Objectives and Process

27

Compensation for Group 1Named Executive Officers

Compensation for Group 2 Officers

32

Other Compensation Matters

39

Compensation and Human Resources Committee Report on Executive Compensation

42

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

42

Compensation of Executive Officers

43

Summary Compensation Table

43

Grants of Plan-Based Awards

45

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

46

Options Exercised and Stock Vested

48

Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation

49

Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change-in-Control

50

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED-PARTY TRANSACTIONS

52

AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT

55

Committee Meetings and Recommendation

55

Pre-Approval Policy

55

Auditor Independence

56

ITEM OF BUSINESS NO. 2 — RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF OUR INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

58

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

58

Board Voting Recommendation

59

ITEM OF BUSINESS NO. 3 — APPROVAL OF OUR 2008 EMPLOYEEAMENDMENTS TO THE BEST BUY CO., INC. 2004 OMNIBUS STOCK PURCHASEAND INCENTIVE PLAN, AS AMENDED

60

Information About the Plan

60

Board Voting Recommendation

69

ITEM OF BUSINESS NO.NOS.TO 9— APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTAMENDMENTS TO OUR AMENDED AND RESTATED ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION

70

Information About the AmendmentFour Amendments to Article IX

70

Board Voting Recommendation

71

Information About the Two Amendments to Article X

72

Board Voting Recommendation

72

OTHER BUSINESS

73

PROPOSALS FOR THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING

73

APPENDIX

Best Buy Co., Inc. Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation

Best Buy Co., Inc. 2008 Employee Stock Purchase Plan

 

Best Buy Co., Inc. Audit Committee Charter

A-1

Best Buy Co., Inc. 2004 Omnibus Stock and Incentive Plan, as amended

B-1

Best Buy Co. Inc. Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation

C-1

 

4



Table of Contents

 

BEST BUY CO., INC.


7601 Penn Avenue South


Richfield, Minnesota 55423

 

PROXY STATEMENT

PROXY STATEMENT

 

REGULAR MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS — JUNE 25, 200824, 2009

 

GENERAL INFORMATION

 

This proxy statement is furnished in connection with the solicitation of proxies by the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of Best Buy Co., Inc. (“Best Buy,” “we,” “us,” or “our”) to be voted at our 20082009 Regular Meeting of Shareholders (the “Meeting”) to be held on Wednesday, June 25, 2008,24, 2009, at 9:30 a.m., Central Time, at the Best Buy Corporate Campus - Theater, 7601 Penn Avenue South, Richfield, Minnesota, or at any postponement or adjournment of the Meeting. The mailing of proxy materials were either made available to shareholders will commenceyou over the Internet or mailed to you beginning on or about [May 12, 2008]2009].

 

Background

 

What is the purpose of the Meeting?

 

At the Meeting, shareholders will vote on the items of business outlined in the Notice of 20082009 Regular Meeting of Shareholders (the “Notice”“Meeting Notice”), included as the cover page to this proxy statement. In addition, management will report on our business and respond to questions from shareholders.

 

Why amdid I receivingreceive a Notice of Internet Availability or why did I receive this proxy statement and a proxy card?

 

You are receivingreceived a Notice of Internet Availability or this proxy statement and a proxy card because you owned shares of Best Buy Common Stockcommon stock as of April 28, 2008,27, 2009, the record date for the Meeting, and are entitled to vote on the items of business at the Meeting. This proxy statement describes the items of business that will be voted on at the Meeting and provides information on these items so that you can make an informed decision.

 

Who may vote?

 

In order to vote at the Meeting, you must be a shareholder of record of Best Buy as of April 28, 2008,27, 2009, which is the record date for the Meeting. If your shares are held in “street name” (that is, through a bank, broker or other nominee), you will receive instructions from the shareholder of record that you must follow in order for your shares to be voted as you choose.

 

When is the record date?

 

The Board has established April 28, 2008,27, 2009, as the record date for the Meeting.

 

How many shares of Best Buy Common Stockcommon stock are outstanding?

 

As of the record date, there were [__________][] shares of Best Buy Common Stockcommon stock outstanding. There are no other classes of capital stock outstanding.

 

5



Table of Contents

Voting Procedure

 

On what items of business am I voting?

 

You are being asked to vote on the following items of business:

 

·The election of fiveseven Class 12 directors for a term of two years and the ratification of the appointment of one Class 21 director;

 

·The ratification of the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending February 28, 2009;27, 2010;

 

·The approval of amendments to our 2008 Employee2004 Omnibus Stock Purchase Plan;and Incentive Plan, as amended (the “Omnibus Plan”);

 

·The amendmentapproval of amendments to our Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation to require a majority voting standard for the election of directors;Incorporation; and

 

·Such other business as may properly come before the Meeting.

 

How do I vote?

 

If you are a shareholder of record (that is, if your shares are owned in your name and not in “street name”), you may vote:

 

3



·      Via the Internet atwww.proxyvote.com;

 

·      By telephone (within the U.S. or Canada) toll-free at1-800-690-6903;

 

·      By signing and returning the enclosed proxy card; or

 

·      By attending the Meeting and voting in person.

 

If you wish to vote by Internet or telephone, you must do so before 11:59 p.m., Eastern Time, on Tuesday, June 24, 2008.23, 2009. After that time, Internet and telephone voting will not be permitted, and a shareholder wishing to vote, or revoke an earlier proxy, must submit a signed proxy card or vote in person.

 

In accordance with the new rules of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), we are sending all shareholders who have not affirmatively opted to receive paper materials, all of their proxy materials via the Internet. However, you may opt to receive paper copies of proxy materials, at no cost to you, by following the instructions we will providecontained in advancethe Notice of the distribution of our 2008 proxy materials.Internet Availability.

 

“Street name” shareholders who wish to vote at the Meeting will need to obtain a proxy form from the institution that holds their shares of record.

 

How are my voting instructions carried out?

 

When you vote via proxy, you appoint Richard M. Schulze and Elliot S. Kaplan (the “Proxy Agents”) as your representatives at the Meeting. The Proxy Agents will vote your shares at the Meeting, or at any postponement or adjournment of the Meeting, as you have instructed them on the proxy card. If you return a properly executed proxy card without specific voting instructions, the Proxy Agents will vote your shares in accordance with the Board’s recommendations. With proxy voting, your shares will be voted regardless of whether you attend the Meeting. Even if you plan to attend the Meeting, it is advisable to vote your shares via proxy in advance of the Meeting in case your plans change.

 

6



Table of Contents

If an item comes up for vote at the Meeting, or at any postponement or adjournment of the Meeting, that is not described in the Meeting Notice, the Proxy Agents will vote the shares subject to your proxy at their discretion.

 

How many votes do I have?

 

You have one vote for each share you own, and you can vote those shares for each item of business to be addressed at the Meeting.

 

How many shares must be present to hold a valid Meeting?

 

For us to hold a valid Meeting, we must have a quorum, which means that a majority of the outstanding shares of our Common Stockcommon stock that are entitled to vote are present at the Meeting. Your shares will be counted as present at the Meeting if you:

 

·      Vote via the Internet or by telephone;

 

·      Properly submit a proxy card (even if you do not provide voting instructions); or

 

·      Attend the Meeting and vote in person.

 

How many votes are required to approve an item of business?

 

Pursuant to our Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation and our Amended and Restated By-laws, each item of business to be voted on by the shareholders requires the affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the shares of Best Buy Common Stockcommon stock present at a meeting and entitled to vote. Due to a recent change to Minnesota law, directors are to be elected by a plurality of the voting power of the shares present at a meeting, unless otherwise provided in a company’s articles of incorporation. Election by plurality means that the candidate receiving the most votes for a position will be elected. Our Restated Articles of Incorporation do not address the vote required to elect directors. Accordingly, at the Meeting, directors will be elected by a plurality.  Our Board has approved, and recommends shareholder approval of, an amendment to our Restated Articles of Incorporation to require that directors receive a majority of the votes cast in order to be elected to the Board. See Item of Business No. 4 — Approval of Amendment to Our Restated Articles of Incorporation beginning on page [__].

 

The election of directors and the ratification of the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm are considered “routine” matters under New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) rules. The NYSE rules allow brokerage firms to vote their clients’ shares on routine matters if the clients do not provide voting instructions.instructions at least 10 days prior to the shareholder meeting. The approval of amendments to our 2008 Employee2004 Omnibus Stock Purchaseand Incentive Plan and the amendment to ourAmended and Restated Articles of Incorporation are considered “non-routine” matters under NYSE rules. The NYSE rules do not allow brokerage firms to vote their clients’ shares on non-routine matters in the absence of affirmative voting instructions.

 

If your brokerage firm votes your shares on routine matters because you do not provide voting instructions, your shares will be counted for purposes of establishing a quorum to conduct business at the Meeting and in determining the number of shares voted for or against the routine matter. If your brokerage firm lacks discretionary voting power with respect to an item that is not a routine matter and you do not provide voting instructions (a “broker non-vote”), your shares will be counted for purposes of establishing a quorum to conduct business at the Meeting, but will not be counted in determining the number of shares voted for or against the non-routine matter. Abstentions are counted as present and entitled to vote for purposes of determining a quorum and will have the same effect as votes against a proposal.

 

What if I change my mind after I vote via proxy?

 

You may revoke your proxy at any time before your shares are voted by:

 

4



·      Submitting a later-dated proxy prior to the Meeting (by mail, Internet or telephone);

 

·      Voting in person at the Meeting; or

 

·      Providing written notice to Best Buy’s Secretary at our principal office.

7



Table of Contents

 

Where can I find the voting results of the Meeting?

 

We will announce the preliminary voting results at the Meeting. We will publish the final voting results in our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for our second fiscal quarter ending August 30, 2008.29, 2009. Our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q is required to be filed with the SEC within 40 days of the end of our fiscal quarter.

 

Proxy Solicitation

 

How are proxies solicited?

 

We will request that brokerage firms, banks, other custodians, nominees, fiduciaries and other representatives of shareholders forward noticesthe Notice of Internet Availability and, as applicable, the proxy materials, and annual reportsthemselves, to the beneficial owners of our Common Stock.common stock. We expect to solicit proxies primarily by Internet and mail, but directors, officers, and other employees and agents of Best Buy may also solicit proxies in person, by telephone, through electronic transmission and by facsimile transmission. Directors and employees of Best Buy do not receive additional compensation for soliciting shareholder proxies.

 

Who will pay for the cost of soliciting proxies?

 

We pay all of the costs of preparing, printing and distributing proxy materials. We will reimburse brokerage firms, banks and other representatives of shareholders for reasonable expenses incurred as defined in the NYSE schedule of charges.

 

How can multiple shareholders sharing the same address request to receive only one set of proxy materials and other investor communications?

 

If you opt to continue to receive paper copies of our proxy materials, you may elect to receive future proxy materials, as well as other shareholderinvestor communications, in a single package per address. This practice, known as “householding,” is designed to reduce our printing and postage costs. To make the election, please indicate on your proxy card under “Householding Election” your consent to receive such communications in a single package per address. Once we receive your consent, we will send a single package per household until you revoke your consent by notifying our Investor Relations Department at 7601 Penn Avenue South, Richfield, MN 55423, or by telephone at (612) 291-6147. We will start sending you individual copies of notices and, as applicable, proxy materials and other investor communications within 30 days of your revocation.

 

Can I receive the proxy materials electronically?

 

Yes. Shareholders who have not affirmatively opted to receive paper proxy materials through the mail will receive a noticeNotice of availabilityInternet Availability and will receivemay access our proxy materials electronically via the Internet. Electronic delivery saves us the costs of printing and mailing these materials. We encourage our shareholders to receiveaccess our proxy materials via the Internet because it reduces our expenses for, and reduces the environmental impact of, our shareholder meetings. In 2008, electronic delivery saved approximately 50 tons of paper that would otherwise have been consumed in the production of proxy materials. You may opt to receive paper copies of proxy materials, at no cost to you, by following the instructions we will provide in advance of the distribution of our 20082009 proxy materials.

 

An electronic version of this proxy statement is posted on our Web site at www.BestBuy.com — select the “For Our Investors” link and then either the “SEC Filings” link or the “Corporate Governance” link.

Additional Information

 

Where can I find additional information about Best Buy?

 

Our Annual Report to Shareholders, our reports on Forms 10-K, 10-Q and 8-K, and other publicly available information should be consulted for other important information about Best Buy. You can also find additional information about Best Buy on our Web site at www.BestBuy.com.www.BestBuy.com.

8



Table of Contents

 

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AT BEST BUY

 

Our Board is elected by the shareholders to oversee our business and affairs. In addition, the Board advises management regarding a broad range of subjects including Best Buy strategies and operating plans. Members of the Board monitor and evaluate our business performance through regular communication with our Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and other members of management, and by attending Board meetings and Board committee meetings.

 

The Board values effective corporate governance and adherence to high ethical standards. As such, the Board has adopted Corporate Governance Principles for our directors and our Code of Business Ethics, both of which are posted on our Web site at www.BestBuy.com — select the “For Our Investors” link and then the “Corporate Governance” link. Paper copies of these documents are available to shareholders free of charge upon request.

 

Board Meetings and Attendance

 

The Board held four regular meetings and onetwo special meetingmeetings during the fiscal year ended March 1, 2008.February 28, 2009. Each incumbent director attended, in person or by telephone, at least 75% of the meetings of both the Board and Board committees on which he or she served. TheIn fiscal 2009, the average attendance by currentour incumbent directors at Board and Board committee meetings exceeded 95%. Our Board does not have a formal policy relating to Board memberdirector attendance at our regular meetings of shareholders; however, our directors generally attend the shareholders’ meeting each year. Each of the
then-serving directors attended the 20072008 Regular Meeting of Shareholders.

5



 

Committees of the Board

 

The Board has the following four committees:

 

·      Audit Committee;

 

·      Compensation and Human Resources Committee;

 

·      Nominating, Corporate Governance and Public Policy Committee; and

 

·      Finance and Investment Policy Committee.

 

The charters for each of the Audit Committee, Compensation and Human Resources Committee, Nominating, Corporate Governance and Public Policy Committee and the Finance and Investment Policy CommitteeBoard committees are posted on our Web site at www.BestBuy.com — select the “For Our Investors” link and then the “Corporate Governance” link. The charters include information regarding the committees’ composition, purpose and responsibilities. Paper copies of these documents are available to shareholders free of charge upon request.

 

The Board has determined that all members of the Audit Committee, Compensation and Human Resources Committee, and Nominating, Corporate Governance and Public Policy Committee are independent directors as defined under the SEC and NYSE corporate governance rules, as applicable.

 

The Board committees have responsibilities as follows:

Audit Committee.This committee discharges the Board’s oversight responsibility to Best Buy’s shareholders and the investment community regarding: (i) the integrity of our financial statements and financial reporting processes; (ii) our internal accounting systems and financial and operational controls; (iii) the qualifications and independence of our independent registered public accounting firm; (iv) the performance of our internal audit function and our independent registered public accounting firm; and (v) our compliance with ethics programs, including our Code of Business Ethics, and legal and regulatory requirements.

 

In carrying out these duties, this committee maintains free and open communication between the Board, our independent registered public accounting firm, our internal auditors and management. This committee meets with management, our internal audit staff and our independent registered public accounting firm at least quarterly. In addition, this committee

9



Table of Contents

conducts quarterly conference calls with management and our independent registered public accounting firm prior to our earnings releases to discuss the results of our independent registered public accounting firm’s quarterly reviews and fiscal year-end audit.

 

Compensation and Human Resources Committee.The  This committee discharges the Board’s responsibilities related to executive officer and director compensation, including the establishment of this committee are to: (i) determine and approve our Chief Executive Officer’s compensation and benefits package; (ii) determine and approve executive and director compensation; (iii) appoint officers atcompensation philosophies, and evaluation of our CEO. This committee also oversees the leveldevelopment and evaluation of, senior vice president and above,approves, equity-based and other than our Chief Executive Officer; (iv) oversee cash and equity-based incentive compensation and other employee benefit plans; (v) overseeplans of a compensatory nature, and oversees our human capital policies and programs; and (vi) oversee the development of executive succession plans.programs.

 

Nominating, Corporate Governance and Public Policy Committee.This committee discharges the Board’s responsibilities related to general corporate governance, including Board organization, membership, training and evaluation. It also reviews and recommends to the Board corporate governance principles, presents qualified individuals for election to the Board, and oversees the evaluation of the performance of the Board and its committees. Finally, this committee oversees matters of public policy and social responsibility that affect us domestically and internationally. For additional information regarding our director nomination process, seeDirector Nomination Process on page [__][].

 

Finance and Investment Policy Committee.This committee advises the Board regarding our financial policies and financial condition to help enable us to achieve our long-range goals. It evaluates and monitors the: (i) protection and safety of our cash and investments; (ii) achievement of reasonable returns on financial assets within acceptable risk tolerance; (iii) maintenance of adequate liquidity to support our activities; (iv) assessment of the cost and availability of capital; and (v) alignment of our strategic goals and financial resources.

 

The following table shows the date each committee was established, the number of meetings held in fiscal 20082009 and the names of the directors serving on each committee as of April 1, 2008:23, 2009:

 

Committee

 

Date Established

 

Number of
Meetings
During
Fiscal 20082009

 

Members

Audit

 

June 1, 1984

 

911

 

Hatim A. Tyabji*

George L. Mikan III

Matthew H. Paull
Mary A. Tolan

Gérard Vittecoq

Compensation and Human Resources

 

February 13, 1997

 

10

 

Frank D. Trestman*

Kathy J. Higgins Victor

Ronald James

Hatim A. Tyabji

Nominating, Corporate Governance and Public Policy

 

February 13, 1997

 

45

 

Kathy J. Higgins Victor*

Ronald James

Sanjay Khosla

Rogelio M. Rebolledo

6



Finance and Investment Policy

 

September 13, 2006

 

97

 

Elliot S. Kaplan*

Allen U. Lenzmeier

Matthew H. Paull
Mary A. Tolan

Frank D. Trestman

 


*                                            Chairman

 

Director Nomination Process

 

The Nominating, Corporate Governance and Public Policy Committee (“Nominating Committee”) is responsible for screening and recommending to the full Board director candidates for nomination. The Nominating Committee will often engage a third-party search firm to assist in identifying appropriate candidates to consider as additions to our Board. When there is an opening on the Board, the Nominating Committee will also consider nominations received from our shareholders, provided that proposed candidates meet the requisite director qualification standards discussed below.

 

10



Table of Contents

When the Board elects to fill a vacancy on the Board, the committeeNominating Committee will announce the open position and post any additional search criteria on our Web site at www.BestBuy.com — select the “For Our Investors” link and then the “Corporate Governance” link. Candidates recommended by shareholders, if qualified, will be considered in the same manner as any other candidate.

 

The Nominating Committee will then evaluate the resumes of any qualified candidates recommended by a search firm or shareholders, as well as by members of the Board. Generally, in order to be considered for nomination, a candidate must have:

 

·      High professional and personal ethics and values;

 

·      A strong record of significant leadership and meaningful accomplishments in his or her field;

 

·      Broad policy-making experience;

 

·      The ability to think strategically;

 

·      Sufficient time to carry out the duties of Board membership; and

 

·      A commitment to enhancing shareholder value and representing the interests of all shareholders.

 

All candidates are evaluated based on these qualification standards and the current needs of the Board.

 

Shareholder nominations must be accompanied by a candidate resume which addresses the extent to which the nominee meets the director qualification standards and any additional search criteria posted on our Web site. Nominations will be considered only if we are currently seeking to fill an open director position. All nominations by shareholders should be submitted as follows:

 

Chairman, Nominating, Corporate Governance and Public Policy Committee

c/o Mr. Joseph M. Joyce

Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Assistant Secretary

Best Buy Co., Inc.

7601 Penn Avenue South

Richfield, Minnesota, 55423

 

Director Independence

 

Pursuant to its Corporate Governance Principles, the Board has established independence standards consistent with the requirements of the SEC and NYSE corporate governance rules, as applicable. To be considered independent under the NYSE rules, the Board must affirmatively determine that a director or director nominee does not have a material relationship with Best Buy (directly, or as a partner, shareholder or officer of an organization that has a relationship with Best Buy). In addition, NYSE rules provide that no director or director nominee may be deemed independent if the director or director nominee

 

— has in the past three years:

 

·      Received (or whose immediate family member has received as a result of service as an executive officer) more than $120,000 during any 12-month period in direct compensation from Best Buy, other than director and committee fees and certain pension payments and other deferred compensation;

 

·      Been an employee of Best Buy;

 

11



Table of Contents

·Had an immediate family member who was an executive officer of Best Buy;

 

·Worked on (or whose immediate family member has worked on) our audit as a partner or an employee of our internal auditors or independent registered public accounting firm; or

 

·Been (or whose immediate family member has been) employed as an executive officer of another company whose compensation committee at that time included a present executive officer of Best Buy; or

 

7



— is:

 

·A partner of our internal auditor or independent registered public accounting firm, or an employee of our internal auditor or independent registered public accounting firm personally working on our audit (or whose immediate family member is currently a partner of such firm or is employed in the audit, assurance or tax compliance practice ofby such firm)firm to personally work on our audit); or

 

·An employee (or has an immediate family member who is an executive officer) of another company that makes payments to Best Buy, or receives payments from Best Buy, for property or services in an amount which, in any of the last three fiscal years, exceeds the greater of $1 million or 2% of such other company’s consolidated gross revenues.

 

Under our director independence standards described above, the Board has determined that each director (including former directors Ari Bousbib and James E. Press)director Mary A. Tolan), with the exception of Messrs. Schulze, Anderson, Kaplan, Lenzmeier and Kaplan,Schulze, is independent. The Board based these determinations primarily on a review of the responses of the directors to questions regarding employment and compensation history, affiliations, and family and other relationships, and on discussions with our directors. The Board also reviewed the relationships between Best Buy and companies with which our directors are affiliated and determined that the relationships with affiliates of current directors Messrs. Mikan, Paull, RebolledoTrestman and Trestman, as well as former directors, Messrs. Bousbib and Press,Tyabji are not material and do not impair the directors’ independence. For additional information regarding these relationships, seeCertain Relationships and Related-Party Transactions on page [__][].

 

George L.Mr. Mikan, III, was appointed as a Class 2 director insince April 2008.2008, is executive vice president and chief financial officer of UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (“UnitedHealth”). Since 2003, we have had a health benefit services agreement with UnitedHealth Group Incorporated.  Mr. Mikan is executive vice president and chief financial officer of UnitedHealth. The amounts we have paid to UnitedHealth, most of which are for employee medical and pharmaceutical costs administered on our behalf by UnitedHealth, were an insignificant portion of the annual consolidated revenue of each of the companies for each of the past three fiscal years. In addition, Mr. Mikan did not participate in negotiating or executing our agreement.agreement with UnitedHealth.

 

Mr. Paull is the former corporate senior executive vice president and chief financial officer of McDonald’s, Inc.  From time to time, we have purchases from and sales to McDonald’s.Trestman has been a director since 1984. We have also periodically had co-marketing agreements with McDonald’s.  The amounts involved represented an insignificant portion of the annual consolidated gross revenue of each of the companies for each of the past three fiscal years. In addition, Mr. Paull did not participatelease retail space in negotiating or executing our agreements.

Our vendor agreement with Pepsi Bottling Group, Inc., of which Mr. Rebolledo was chairman of its Mexican subsidiary, does not constitute a material transaction. We purchase Pepsi products for resale in our corporate and retail locations and Pepsi Bottling Group purchases products and gift cards from our Business to Business group. The amounts involved represented an insignificant portion of the consolidated gross revenue of both companies for each of the past three fiscal years. In addition, Mr. Rebolledo did not participate in negotiating or executing our agreements.

Mr. Trestman’s and his son-in-law’s interest in areal estate development in which we lease retail spaceMr. Trestman and his son-in-law have an interest. Their interest in the development was not deemed material to Mr. Trestman’s independence because the amount of theour annual lease payment is less than $1 million and the retail square-footage leased constitutes less than 15% of the total leaseableleasable square-footage in the development. In addition, Mr. Trestman did not participate in negotiating or executing our lease agreement.

 

During fiscal 2008, we had an elevator service and preventative maintenance agreement with Otis Elevator Company, of which Mr. Bousbib is president. The agreement was deemed not material because it was entered into prior to Mr. Bousbib’s membership on the Board and because the valueTyabji, a director since 1998, has served as chairman of the agreement was small andboard of directors of Jasper Wireless, Inc. (“Jasper”) since November 2008. We purchase wireless data connectivity services from Jasper for our private label mobile navigation devices. We paid $2 million to Jasper in fiscal 2009, which represented an insignificant portionapproximately 10% of both Best Buy’s and Otis’ annual consolidated grossits recognized revenue for eachthe year. Mr. Tyabji is not an employee of the past three fiscal years. In addition, Mr. BousbibJasper, nor did nothe participate in negotiating or executing our agreement with Otis.  Mr. Bousbib did not stand for ratification as a director at our 2007 Regular Meeting of Shareholders.Jasper.

 

Mr. Press was presidentBoard Composition

The Board is committed to highly effective corporate governance that reflects the interests of Toyota Motor North America,our shareholders, customers and employees. To ensure a diversity of perspectives, the American subsidiaryBoard seeks a balance of Toyota Motor Corporation Ltd. During fiscal 2008,internal experience and external independent expertise.  This combination of perspectives also helps to ensure that we had lease agreementssustain our corporate culture, which is a cornerstone of our legacy and a key competitive advantage. In addition, the Board has diligently focused on the

12



Table of Contents

succession and development of our senior officers including, in particular, the internal candidates for our CEO, who also serves on the Board.

In accordance with another subsidiarythese interests and the principles of Toyota. The amounts involved represented an insignificant portioneffective corporate governance, in April 2009, the Board adopted a long-term goal recommended by the Nominating Committee to have at least 75% of our directors be independent.  However, in the short-term, we expect the number of non-independent directors to increase due to the likely appointment of the annual consolidated gross revenueincoming CEO to the Board.  In addition, consistent with the Board’s careful planning for the director skill sets required today and in the future, and in order to have an orderly succession and transition of eachdirectors, the Board has determined that it is in the best interests of our company and shareholders that the incumbent non-independent directors complete the terms to which they have been elected or will likely be elected this year.

The Board believes that the careful stewardship of our company and culture during a time of leadership transition merits a temporary increase in the total number of directors and the ratio of non-independent directors.  We expect that at least 75% of the companies for eachdirectors will be independent following the 2011 regular meeting of the past three fiscal years.  Mr. Press resigned from our Board on November 1, 2007, after accepting a position with Chrysler LLC and Cerberus Capital Management, L.P.shareholders.

 

Executive Sessions of Non-Management, and Independent Directors

 

In order to promote open discussion among non-management directors, the Board has a policy of conducting executive sessions of non-management directors in connection with each regularly scheduled Board meeting. The executive sessions of non-management directors are chaired by the Secretary, provided the Secretary is a non-management director. The independent directors meet in executive session during each regularly scheduled Board meeting. This session is chaired by the independent directors on a rotating basis.

 

Communications With the Board

 

Shareholders and interested parties who wish to contact the Board, any individual director, or the non-management or independent directors as a group, are welcome to do so in writing, addressed to such person(s) in care of:

 

Mr. Joseph M. Joyce

Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Assistant Secretary

Best Buy Co., Inc.

7601 Penn Avenue South

Richfield, Minnesota 55423

 

Mr. Joyce will forward all written shareholder correspondence to the appropriate Board member(s)director(s), except for spam, junk mail, mass mailings, customer complaints or inquiries, job inquiries, surveys, business solicitations or advertisements, or patently offensive or otherwise inappropriate material. Mr. Joyce may, at his discretion, forward certain correspondence, such as customer-related inquiries, elsewhere within Best Buy for review and possible response. Comments or questions regarding Best Buy’s accounting, internal controls or auditing matters will be referred to members of the Audit Committee. Comments or questions regarding the nomination of directors and other corporate governance matters will be referred to members of the Nominating Committee.  Comments or questions regarding executive compensation will be referred to members of the Compensation and Human Resources Committee (“Compensation Committee”).

8



 

Director Orientation and Continuing Education

 

Our Nominating Committee oversees the orientation and continuing education of our directors. Director orientation familiarizes directors with our strategic plans; significant financial, accounting and risk management issues; compliance programs and other controls; policies; principal officers and internal auditors; and our independent registered public accounting firm. The orientation also addresses Board procedures, directors’ responsibilities, Corporate Governance Principles and our Board committee charters.

 

We also offer continuing education programs to assist the directors in maintaining their expertise in these areas. In addition, our directors have the opportunity to attend commercial director education seminars related to the director’s committee assignment(s) or to the work of the Board. In fiscal 2008,2009, we conducted an orientation for aone new member of the Board and conducted one continuing education session for the Board.

13



Table of Contents

 

Director Compensation

 

Overview of Director Compensation

 

In April of each year, the Compensation and Human Resources Committee (“Compensation Committee”) reviews the total compensation paid to non-management directors. The purpose of the review is to ensure that the level of compensation is appropriate to attract and retain a diverse group of directors with the breadth of experience necessary to perform the Board’s duties, and to fairly compensate directors for their service. The review is comprehensive and includes consideration of qualitative and comparative factors. To ensure directors are compensated relative to the scope of their responsibilities, the Compensation Committee considers: (i) the time and effort involved in preparing for Board, committee and management meetings and the additional duties assumed by committee chairs; (ii) the level of continuing education required to remain informed of broad corporate governance trends, and material developments and strategic initiatives within Best Buy; and (iii) the risks associated with fulfilling fiduciary duties. To supplement the qualitative analysis, the Compensation Committee also considers the total value of the compensation as compared with director compensation at other Fortune 100 companies and our peer group of companies, which is described inHow We Determine Compensation on page [__][].

 

Director Summary Compensation Table

 

The following table summarizes the compensation earned by our non-management directors and management directors that are not named executive officers (as described on page [__][]), during fiscal 2008:2009:

 

 

Fees

 

 

 

Non-qualified

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earned

 

 

 

Deferred

 

 

 

 

 

 

Or Paid

 

Option

 

Compensation

 

All Other

 

 

 

Name

 

In Cash

1

Awards

2

Earnings

3

Compensation

 

Total

 

 

Fees
Earned
or Paid
In Cash

1

Option
Awards

2

Non-qualified
Deferred
Compensation
Earnings

3

All Other
Compensation

 

Total

 

Ari Bousbib4

 

$

 

$

150,075

 

$

 

$

 

$

150,075

 

Kathy J. Higgins Victor

 

85,000

 

150,075

 

 

 

235,075

 

 

$

85,000

 

$

100,575

 

 

 

$

185,575

 

Ronald James

 

75,000

 

150,075

 

 

 

225,075

 

 

75,000

 

100,575

 

 

 

175,575

 

Elliot S. Kaplan

 

85,000

 

150,075

 

 

 

235,075

 

 

85,000

 

100,575

 

 

 

185,575

 

Sanjay Khosla4

 

9,478

 

40,425

 

 

 

 

49,903

 

Allen U. Lenzmeier

 

 

150,075

 

 

64,724

5

214,799

 

 

 

100,575

 

 

64,338

5

164,913

 

George L. Mikan, III

 

 

 

 

 

 

George L. Mikan III6

 

56,250

 

106,350

 

 

 

162,600

 

Matthew H. Paull

 

75,000

 

150,075

 

 

 

225,075

 

 

75,000

 

100,575

 

 

 

175,575

 

James E. Press6

 

50,000

 

150,075

 

 

 

200,075

 

Rogelio M. Rebolledo

 

75,000

 

150,075

 

 

 

225,075

 

 

75,000

 

100,575

 

 

 

175,575

 

Richard M. Schulze

 

 

7

 

294,461

8

294,461

 

 

 

7

 

164,654

8

164,654

 

Mary A. Tolan

 

75,000

 

150,075

 

 

 

225,075

 

Mary A. Tolan9

 

52,953

 

 

 

 

52,953

 

Frank D. Trestman

 

90,000

 

150,075

 

 

 

240,075

 

 

90,000

 

100,575

 

 

 

190,575

 

Hatim A. Tyabji

 

90,000

 

150,075

 

 

 

240,075

 

 

90,000

 

100,575

 

 

 

190,575

 

Gérard R. Vittecoq10

 

8,510

 

40,425

 

 

 

48,935

 

 


1                                            Management directors did not receive any cash compensation for their service as directors during fiscal 2008.2009. The cash compensation in fiscal 20082009 for each of our non-management directors consisted of:

 

Annual retainer

 

$

75,000

 

Annual committee chair retainer (Audit Committee or Compensation Committee)

 

15,000

 

Annual committee chair retainer (all other committees)

 

10,000

 

 

The annual retainer and the annual committee chair retainer for non-management directors who serve during only a portion of a fiscal year isare prorated. All annual retainers are paid in quarterly installments.

 

2                                            These amounts reflect the expense recognized for financial statement reporting purposes in fiscal 20082009 in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 123 (revised 2004),Share-Based Payment (“123(R)”), for stock options granted under our 2004 Omnibus Plan, as amended.Plan. The amounts reported have been adjusted to eliminate service-based forfeiture assumptions used for financial reporting purposes. The assumptions used in calculating these amounts are set forth in Note 5,7, Shareholders’ Equity, to the consolidated financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 1, 2008.February 28, 2009.

 

At March 1, 2008,February 28, 2009, the aggregate number of shares subject to outstanding stock option awards outstanding was: Mr. Bousbib — 12,500 shares; Ms. Higgins Victor — 37,50045,000 shares; Mr. James — 37,50045,000 shares; Mr. Kaplan — 93,750101,250 shares; Mr. Khosla — 3,750 shares; Mr. Lenzmeier — 817,500

14



Table of Contents

825,000 shares; Mr. Mikan — 7,500 shares; Mr. Paull — 37,500 shares; Mr. Press — 9,37545,000 shares; Mr. Rebolledo — 12,50020,000 shares; Mr. Schulze — 1,965,000 shares; Ms. Tolan — 32,0001,736,250 shares; Mr. Trestman — 105,750101,250 shares; Mr. Tyabji — 78,750 shares; and Mr. TyabjiVittecoq93,7503,750 shares.

 

3                                            We do not provide guaranteed, above-market or preferential earnings on compensation deferred under our Fourth Amended and Restated Deferred Compensation Plan (“Deferred Compensation Plan”). The options available for notional investment of deferred compensation are similar to those available under the Best Buy Retirement Savings Plan (“Retirement Savings Plan”) and are described inNon-Qualified Deferred Compensation on page [__][].

9



 

4                                            For personal reasons, Mr. Bousbib decided not to stand for ratificationKhosla was appointed as a Class 2 director at the June 27, 2007, Regular Meeting of Shareholders.effective October 15, 2008.

 

5                                            The amount includes: (a) payment of $60,000 in salary for Mr. Lenzmeier’s employment as Vice Chairman, as described below inEmployment Arrangement for Allen U. Lenzmeier; (b) payment of $1,922$2,100 in matching contributions under our Retirement Savings Plan; (c) payment of $1,000 automobile allowance (Mr. Lenzmeier’s automobile allowance was terminated effective May 1, 2007); (d) payment of $72 in premiums for executive long-term disability insurance; and (e)(d) reimbursement of $1,730$2,000 for tax preparation expenses.expenses and (e) payment of $166 in tax gross-ups.

 

6                                            Mr. PressMikan was appointed as a Class 2 director effective December 20, 2006.  Mr. Press terminated his service with the Board on November 1, 2007, after accepting a new position with Chrysler LLC and Cerberus Capital Management, L.P.April 9, 2008.

 

7                                            Mr. Schulze requested that he not be granted a long-term incentive award and that options to purchase the number of options to purchase shares he would have received be contributed to a discretionary award pool to be distributed to our employees.

 

8                                            The amount includes: (a) payment of $280,769$150,000 in salary for Mr. Schulze’s employment as Chairman of the Board, as described below inEmployment Arrangement for Richard M. Schulze; (b) payment of $3,298$5,250 in matching contributions under our Retirement Savings Plan; (c) payment of $9,145$9,144 in premiums for life insurance coverage exceeding $50,000; and (d) payment of $1,000 automobile allowance (Mr. Schulze’s automobile allowance was terminated effective May 1, 2007); and (e) payment of $249$260 in premiums for executive long-term disability insurance. Not reflected in the amount are the following benefits Mr. Schulze received from third-parties in connection with his relationship with Best Buy: (a) satellite TV service; and (b) cellular phone equipment and service.

 

9For professional reasons, Ms. Tolan resigned from the Board of Directors on August 14, 2008. Her resignation was effective immediately.

10Mr. Vittecoq was appointed as a Class 1 director effective September 26, 2008.

Employment Arrangement for Richard M. Schulze

In April 2007, we entered into an amended employment arrangement with Richard M. Schulze, a founder of Best Buy, and our former Chief Executive Officer, and our current Chairman of the Board.Board and our former CEO. Mr. Schulze’s responsibilitiesSchulze is responsible as Chairman includefor Board oversight, corporate strategic planning and mentoring company officers. Mr. Schulze also periodically represents Best Buy at public functions and actively engages with employees at designated company functions. Under the amendedPursuant to our employment arrangement with Mr. Schulze’sSchulze, he received an annual salary was reduced from $1 million toof $150,000 for as long as he is physically and mentally proficient to act as Chairman, subject to his election as a director by our shareholders. The arrangement allows for annual increases based on the consumer price index. Mr. Schulze is not eligible to participate in our equity-based compensation programs for employees. However, he is eligible to receive options to purchase the same number of shares granted to non-management directors, as described in Director Equity Awards on page [__][]. In addition, he receiveswe provided the following benefits:benefits to Mr. Schulze in fiscal 2009: (i) reimbursement of all business-related expenses, including travel, entertainment, room and board; (ii) eligibility for Mr. Schulze and his spouse to participate in health benefit programs generally available to our employees; (iii) office facilities at our corporate campus, including full administrative support services; and (iv) eligibility to participate in our Retirement Savings Plan and Deferred Compensation Plan.

 

Employment Arrangement for Allen U. Lenzmeier

 

We entered into an employment arrangement withIn fiscal 2009, Allen U. Lenzmeier, oura Vice Chairman, in April 2006 and the agreement was subsequently amended in April 2007. As Vice Chairman, Mr. Lenzmeier providesprovided consulting services to us in connection with our international expansion projects. Under thePursuant to our employment arrangement with Mr. Lenzmeier, we agreed to paypaid Mr. Lenzmeier an annual salary of $60,000 to serve as Vice Chairmanwork on a part-time basis. Mr. Lenzmeier iswas not eligible to participate in our equity-based compensation programs for employees, except our 20032008 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”) and, if adopted, our 2008 Employee Stock Purchase Plan.. However, he is eligible to receivereceived options to purchase the same number of shares granted to non-management directors, as described inDirector Equity Awards below. In addition, he receiveswe provided the following benefits:benefits to Mr. Lenzmeier in fiscal 2009: (i) reimbursement of all business-related expenses, including travel, entertainment, room and board; (ii) office facilities at our corporate campus, including administrative support services; and (iii) eligibility to participate in our Retirement

15



Table of Contents

Savings Plan and Deferred Compensation Plan. Mr. Lenzmeier terminated his employment arrangement with us as of the end of fiscal 2009 but will continue to serve as a director for the remainder of his term through June 2010.

 

Director Equity Awards

 

A significant portion of director compensation is linked to our stock performance in the form of stock option grants. Each April, in connection with the Compensation Committee’s annual review of director compensation, the Compensation Committee considers a stock option award for directors. On April 8, 2008, the Compensation Committee granted to each then-serving director, other than management directors who are eligible to participate in our equity-based compensation programs for employees, an option to purchase 7,500 shares of Best Buy Common Stockcommon stock at an exercise price of $42.19 per share. Mr. Schulze requested that he not be granted a long-term incentive award and that options to purchase the number of options to purchase shares he would have received be contributed to a discretionary award pool to be distributed to our employees. The grants were made under the Omnibus Plan, vested immediately on the grant date and can generally be exercised over a 10-year period.

 

The Compensation Committee also considers stock option grants for new directors at the time they are appointed to the Board. Because annual director stock option grants are made in April, special appointment-based grants are prorated based on the number of months remaining prior to the time when the Compensation Committee expects to consider the next annual director grant.

 

Director Stock Ownership Guidelines

 

The Compensation Committee has established stock ownership guidelines for our non-management directors. Each non-management director is expected to own shares of our Common Stockcommon stock equivalent in value to five times their annual cash retainer. Newly appointed directors have five years from their date of appointment to achieve the expected level of stock ownership.

10



 

Deferred Compensation Plan

 

Each calendar year, we offer directors the right to defer up to 100% of their annual and committee chair retainers under our Deferred Compensation Plan which is described inNon-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan on page [__][]. No company contributions or matching contributions are made for the benefit of directors under the Deferred Compensation Plan.

 

Other Benefits

 

We reimburse all directors for travel and other necessary business expenses incurred in performance of their services for us. In addition, we extend coverage to all directors are covered under a directors’ and officers’ indemnity insurance policy.

16



Table of Contents

 

ITEM OF BUSINESS NO. 1 — ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

 

General Information

 

Our Amended and Restated BylawsBy-laws provide that the Board may consist of a maximum of 1213 directors, fivesix of whom are designated as Class 1 directors and seven of whom are designated as Class 2 directors. Directors are elected for a term of two years, and the terms are staggered so that Class 1 directors are elected in even-numbered years and Class 2 directors are elected in odd-numbered years.

 

Board Structure

 

Our Board is committed to having a sound governance structure that promotes the best interests of all Best Buy shareholders. To that end, our Board has evaluated and actively continues to examine emerging corporate governance trends and best practices. Shareholder perspectives play an important role in that process. The level of importance afforded to shareholder perspectives by our Board is evident upon a closer review of the Board’s governance structure. Some key points regarding that structure are as follows:

 

·We believe that two-year terms allow our directors to have a longer-term orientation to our business and encourage long-term, strategic thinking. At the same time, this structure holds the directors accountable to our shareholders, as the entire Board is subject to re-election as early as 53 weeks from any regular meeting of shareholders. Moreover, we believe that the two-year terms promote continuity and foster an appropriate “institutional memory” among Board members.directors.

 

·Our Board is predominantly independent. Of our 1213 directors, only three are Best Buy employees (including our Chairman of the Board, who is a founder of Best Buy and a major shareholder). Further, the Board has affirmatively determined that eightnine of our 1213 directors are independent under SEC and NYSE corporate governance rules, as applicable.

 

·We have separated the roles of Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer.CEO. Our Chairman focuses on Board oversight responsibilities, strategic planning and mentoring company officers. Our Chairman also periodically represents Best Buy at public functions and actively engages with employees at designated company functions. Our Chief Executive OfficerCEO focuses on the development and execution of company strategies.

 

·Our Board is very active. Our directors attended, on average, over 95% of fiscal 20082009 Board and Board committee meetings.

 

We believe our Board structure serves the interests of shareholders by balancing Board continuity and the promotion of long-term thinking with the need for director accountability.

 

Voting Information

 

You may vote for all, some or none of the nominees to be elected to the Board. However, you may not vote for more individuals than the number nominated. Each of the nominees has agreed to continue serving as a director if elected. However, if any nominee becomes unwilling or unable to serve and the Board elects to fill the vacancy, the Proxy Agents named in the proxy will vote for an alternative person nominated by the Board. Our Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation prohibit cumulative voting, which means you can vote only once for any nominee. The affirmative vote of a pluralitymajority of the voting power of the shares present and entitled to vote at the Meeting is required to elect each director nominee.

 

IF YOU RETURN A PROXY CARD THAT IS PROPERLY SIGNED BUT YOU HAVE NOT MARKED YOUR VOTE, THAT PROXY WILL BE VOTED TO ELECT ALL OF THE NOMINEES.

 

17



Table of Contents

Board Voting Recommendation

 

Management and the Board recommend that shareholders voteFOR the re-election of BradburyRonald James, Elliot S. Kaplan, George L. Mikan III, Matthew H. Anderson, Kathy J. Higgins Victor, Allen U. Lenzmeier, RogelioPaull, Richard M. RebolledoSchulze and Frank D. TrestmanHatim A. Tyabji as Class 12 directors. Management and the Board also recommend that shareholders vote FOR the election of Sanjay Khosla. If elected, each Class 12 director will hold office until the election of directors at our 20102011 Regular Meeting of Shareholders and until his or her successor has been duly elected and qualified, or until his or her earlier death, resignation or removal.

 

The Board appointed George L. Mikan, III,Gérard R. Vittecoq as a Class 21 director, effective April 9,September 26, 2008. Mr. MikanVittecoq was recommended to the Board by an independent third-party search firm. Management and the Board recommend that shareholders ratifyvote FOR the appointmentratification of Mr. MikanVittecoq’s appointment as a Class 21 director at the Meeting. If his appointment is ratified, Mr. MikanVittecoq will hold office until the election of directors at the 20092010 Regular Meeting of Shareholders and until his successor has been duly elected and qualified, or until his earlier death, resignation or removal.

 

All of the nominees are currently members of the Board.

11



 

Nominees and Directors

 

There are no family relationships among the nominees or between any nominees and any of our other directors.

 

ITEM OF BUSINESS NO. 1.1

 

Class 12 Director Nominees

 (ages(ages as of March 1, 2008)February 28, 2009)

Bradbury H. Anderson, 58, has been a director since August 1986 and is our Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. He assumed the responsibility of Chief Executive Officer in June 2002, having previously served as President and Chief Operating Officer since April 1991. He has been employed in various capacities with us since 1973. In addition, he serves on the board of General Mills, Inc., as well as on the boards of the Retail Industry Leaders Association, the American Film Institute, Minnesota Early Learning Foundation, Best Buy Children’s Foundation, Minnesota Public Radio and Waldorf College.

Kathy J. Higgins Victor, 51, has been a director since November 1999. Since 1994, she has been president of Centera Corporation, an executive development and leadership coaching firm she founded which is located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. From 1991 to 1994, she was the senior vice president of human resources at Northwest Airlines, Inc., and prior to that held senior executive positions at The Pillsbury Company and Burger King Corporation. She is on the board of the University of St. Thomas.

Allen U. Lenzmeier, 64, has been a director since February 2001 and is our Vice Chairman, serving on a part-time basis to support our international expansion. Prior to his promotion to Vice Chairman in 2004, he served in various capacities since joining us in 1984, including as President and Chief Operating Officer from 2002 to 2004, and as President of Best Buy Retail Stores from 2001 to 2002. He serves on the board of UTStarcom, Inc. He is also a national trustee for the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and serves on its Twin Cities board.

Rogelio M. Rebolledo, 63, has been a director since August 2006. In 2007, Mr. Rebolledo retired from his position as chairman of PBG Mexico, the Mexican operations of Pepsi Bottling Group, Inc. He began his 30-year career with PepsiCo Inc. at Sabritas, the salty snack food unit of Frito-Lay International in Mexico. He was responsible for the development of the international Frito-Lay business, first in Latin America and then in Asia. From 2001 to 2003, he was president and chief executive officer of Frito-Lay International. He also served as president and chief executive officer of Pepsi Bottling Group’s Mexico operations from January 2004 until being named chairman.

12



 

Frank D. Trestman, 73, has been a director since December 1984. Since 1989, he has been president of Trestman Enterprises, an investment and business development firm in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and chairman of The Avalon Group, a real estate development partnership in Minneapolis. From 1987 to 1989, he was a consultant to McKesson Corporation, a distributor of pharmaceutical products, and medical supplies and equipment. From 1983 to 1987, he was chairman of the board and chief executive officer of Mass Merchandisers, Inc., a distributor of non-food products to retailers in the grocery business. He is also on the board of the Harry Kay Foundation.

ITEM OF BUSINESS NO. 1.2

Nominee for Ratification as Class 2 Director— Term expires in 2009

 (age as of March 1, 2008)

[Photo Not Available]

George L. Mikan, III, 36, has been a Class 2 director since April 2008. Since November 2006, he has been the executive vice president and chief financial officer of UnitedHealth Group Incorporated. Mr. Mikan joined UnitedHealth Group in 1998 and has held various executive positions of increasing responsibility from 1998 to the present. From 1994 to 1998, he was employed at Arthur Andersen LLP.

Nominees for Class 2 Directors— Terms expire in 2009

 (ages as of March 1, 2008)

 

Ronald James, 57,58, has been a director since May 2004. Since 2000, he has served as president and chief executive officer of the Center for Ethical Business Cultures in Minneapolis, Minnesota, which assists business leaders in building ethical and profitable business cultures at the enterprise, community and global levels. From 1996 to 1998, he was president and chief executive officer of the Human Resources Group, a division of Ceridian Corporation in Minneapolis.Minneapolis, Minnesota. From 1971 to 1996, he was employed by U.S.with US West Communications, Inc. (now Qwest)Quest), most recently serving as Minnesota’s top executive officer. He serves on the boards of Tamarack Funds, an investment fund of RBC Dain Rauscher, Inc.;, and Bremer Financial Corporation; and Allina Hospitals and Clinics. Mr. JamesCorporation, a regional community banking company. He also serves on the boards of the Greater Twin Cities United Way, the Travelers Foundation, Speak the Word Church International and the Guthrie Theater.Theater in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Mr. James also serves on a board committee, Center for Healthcare Innovation, for Allina Hospitals and Clinics.

 

 

 

 

Elliot S. Kaplan, 71,72, has been a director and Secretary since January 1971. Since 1961, he has been an attorney with the law firm of Robins, Kaplan, Miller & Ciresi L.L.P., Minneapolis, Minnesota, which serves as our primary external general counsel. He is also a director of infoUSA, Inc. and an owner and director of the Bank of Naples in Naples, Florida.Florida and a director of infoUSA, Inc. Mr. Kaplan resigned from the board of infoUSA, Inc. effective May 31, 2009. In addition, he serves on the executive board of Thethe Minnesota Historical Society and is chairman of the University of Minnesota Foundation.

18



Table of Contents

Sanjay Khosla, 57, has been a director since October 2008. In January 2007, he joined Kraft Foods Inc., one of the world’s largest food and beverage companies. He currently serves as president of Kraft International. Prior to Kraft, he was with Fonterra Co-operative Group Ltd., a multinational dairy company based in New Zealand, where he served as managing director of its consumer and food service business. Before joining Fonterra, he had a 27-year career with Unilever in India, the United Kingdom and Europe, culminating as senior vice president, global beverages and chairman of Unilever’s beverages category.

George L. Mikan III, 37, has been a director since April 2008. Since November 2006, he has been the executive vice president and chief financial officer of UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (“UnitedHealth”), a diversified health care and well-being company. Mr. Mikan joined UnitedHealth in 1998 and has held various executive positions of increasing responsibility from 1998 to the present. From 1994 to 1998, he was employed at Arthur Andersen LLP.

 

 

 

 

Matthew H. Paull, 56,57, has been a director since September 2003. Mr. Paull is an executive professor in residence at the University of San Diego. He is the former corporate senior executive vice president and chief financial officer for McDonald’s Corporation, which develops, operates, franchises and services a worldwide system of McDonald’s restaurants, havingrestaurants. He retired from that position in January 2008. Prior to joining McDonald’s Corporation in 1993, he was a partner at Ernst & Young LLP, specializing in international tax.

 

 

 

 

Richard M. Schulze, 67,68, is a founder of Best Buy. He has been an officer and director from our inception in 1966 and currently is Chairman of the Board. Effective in June 2002, he relinquished the duties of Chief Executive Officer. He had beenCEO, having served as our principal executive officer for more than 30 years. He is on the board of the University of St. Thomas, chairman of its Executive and Institutional Advancement Committee, and a member of its Board Affairs Committee. Mr. Schulze is also chairman of the board of governors of the University of St. Thomas Business School.

 

1319



Table of Contents

 

Mary A. Tolan, 47, has been a director since May 2004. She is the founder and chief executive officer of Accretive Health, a patient access and revenue cycle service company for health care providers located in Chicago, Illinois. Prior to founding Accretive Health in November 2003, she was a partner at Accenture Ltd, a global management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company, holding the positions of corporate development officer and group chief executive, among others. She serves on the council for the Graduate School of Business at the University of Chicago, the board of the Lyric Opera in Chicago and the board of Arise, Inc.

 

Hatim A. Tyabji, 63,64, has been a director since April 1998. Since July 2001, he has been executive chairman of Bytemobile, Inc., a wireless Internet infrastructure provider in Mountain View, California. From 1998 to 2000, he served as chairman and chief executive officer of Saraïde, Inc., a provider of Internet and wireless data services; and from 1986 to 1998, as president and chief executive officer (and as chairman from 1992 until 1998) of VeriFone, Inc., a global transaction automation enterprise. He is also chairman of DataCard Group, andJasper Wireless, a global networking device company. Mr. Tyabji serves as a director of Merchant e-Solutions, Depotpoint Inc. and eFunds.TAFMO, Ltd. He also serves as Ambassadorambassador at Largelarge for Benchmark Capital.

 

 

 

ITEM OF BUSINESS NO. 1.2

Nominee for Ratification as Class 1 Director — Term expires in 2010

(age as of February 28, 2009)

Gérard R. Vittecoq, 60, has been a director since September 2008. Since 2004, he has been a group president of Caterpillar, Inc. in Peoria, Illinois, the world’s largest manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, and industrial gas turbines, responsible for the company’s Europe-Africa-Middle East Marketing and Operations Divisions; Marine, Petroleum and Electric Power Divisions; and Caterpillar Production System Division. He joined Caterpillar in 1975 and held various accounting and finance positions within the company. From 1987 to 1990, he was in charge of strategy projects and was appointed director of strategy & planning in 1990. From 1995 to 1997, he was managing director of Caterpillar France S.A. In 1997, he became managing director of Caterpillar Belgium S.A. He was elected a vice president in January 2001, overseeing the Europe-Africa-Middle East Product Development & Operations Division. He is a member of the IMD (International Institute for Management Development) Foundation Board, the Evian Group: Free Trade Think Tank, and an executive member of the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, as well as a vice president of the board of the Swiss-American Chamber of Commerce.

20



Table of Contents

Class 1 Directors — Terms expire in 2010

(ages as of February 28, 2009)

Bradbury H. Anderson, 59, has been a director since August 1986 and is currently our Vice Chairman and CEO. He assumed the responsibility of CEO in June 2002, having previously served as President and Chief Operating Officer since April 1991. He has been employed in various capacities with us since 1973. In addition, he serves on the board of General Mills, Inc., as well as on the boards of the Retail Industry Leaders Association, the American Film Institute, Minnesota Early Learning Foundation, Best Buy Children’s Foundation, Minnesota Public Radio and Waldorf College.

As previously announced in January 2009, Mr. Anderson intends to retire as CEO on June 24, 2009, during the 2009 regular meeting of shareholders. He intends to complete his term as Vice Chairman of the Board through June 2010.

Kathy J. Higgins Victor, 52, has been a director since November 1999. Since 1994, she has been the president of Centera Corporation, an executive development and leadership coaching firm that she founded, which is located in Minneapolis, Minnesota. From 1991 to 1994, she was the senior vice president of human resources at Northwest Airlines, Inc., and prior to that held senior executive positions at The Pillsbury Company and Burger King Corporation. She is on the board of the University of St. Thomas.

Allen U. Lenzmeier, 65, has been a director since February 2001, and a Vice Chairman. Prior to his promotion to Vice Chairman in 2004, he served in various capacities since joining us in 1984. His prior positions include President and Chief Operating Officer from 2002 to 2004, and President of Best Buy Retail Stores from 2001 to 2002. Mr. Lenzmeier retired from Best Buy in February 2009, though he continues to serve as a director. He serves on the boards of UTStarcom, Inc. and Envoy Medical Corp., and serves as chairman of the board of American TeleCare Inc. In addition, he is a national trustee for the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, and serves on its Twin Cities board of directors.

Rogelio M. Rebolledo, 64, has been a director since August 2006. In 2007, Mr. Rebolledo retired from his position as chairman of PBG Mexico, the Mexican operations of Pepsi Bottling Group, Inc. He began his 30-year career with PepsiCo in 1976 at Sabritas, the salty snack food unit of Frito-Lay International in Mexico. He was responsible for the development of the international Frito-Lay business, first in Latin America and then in Asia. From 2001 to 2003, he was president and chief executive officer of Frito-Lay International. He also served as president and chief executive officer of Pepsi Bottling Group’s Mexico operations from January 2004 until being named chairman. Mr. Rebolledo also serves on the boards of Kellogg’s Inc. and the ALFA Corporation in Mexico.

21



Table of Contents

Frank D. Trestman, 74, has been a director since December 1984. Since 1989, he has been president of Trestman Enterprises, an investment and business development firm in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and chairman of The Avalon Group, a real estate development partnership in Minneapolis, Minnesota. From 1987 to 1989, he was a consultant to McKesson Corporation, a distributor of pharmaceutical products and medical supplies and equipment. From 1983 to 1987, he was chairman of the board and chief executive officer of Mass Merchandisers, Inc., a distributor of non-food products to retailers in the grocery business. He is also the president and serves on the board of the Harry Kay Foundation.

22



Table of Contents

 

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT

 

The following table provides information about the number of shares of Best Buy Common Stockcommon stock beneficially owned at March 1, 2008,February 28, 2009, by our Chairman of the Board, our Chief Executive Officer,CEO, our Enterprise Chief Financial Officer (Interim) and each of our three other most highly compensated executive officers during the most recent fiscal year. The table provides similar information for each director including the director nominees, all directors and executive officers as a group, and each person we know who beneficially owns more than 5% of the outstanding shares of Best Buy Common Stock.common stock.

 

Name and Address1

 

Number of Shares
Beneficially Owned

 

Percent of Shares
Beneficially Owned

 

 

Number of Shares
Beneficially Owned

 

Percent of Shares
Beneficially Owned

 

Richard M. Schulze

 

69,733,556

2

17.0

%

 

70,863,932

2

17.1

%

Founder and Chairman of the Board

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bradbury H. Anderson

 

3,991,284

3

1.0

%

 

3,826,219

3

*

 

Vice Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Director

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

James L. Muehlbauer

 

102,001

4

*

 

 

148,172

4

*

 

Enterprise Chief Financial Officer (Interim)

 

 

 

 

 

Executive Vice President – Finance and Chief Financial Officer

 

 

 

 

 

Brian J. Dunn

 

367,280

5

*

 

 

499,504

5

*

 

President and Chief Operating Officer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Robert A. Willett

 

398,200

6

*

 

 

489,875

6

*

 

Chief Executive Officer — Best Buy International and Chief Information Officer

 

 

 

 

 

Kevin Layden

 

161,293

7

*

 

Chief Operating Officer — International

 

 

 

 

 

Chief Executive Officer – Best Buy International and Chief Information Officer

 

 

 

 

 

Shari L. Ballard

 

177,259

7

*

 

Executive Vice President – Retail Channel Management

 

 

 

 

 

Kathy J. Higgins Victor

 

43,230

8

*

 

 

50,730

8

*

 

Director

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ronald James

 

41,000

9

*

 

 

48,504

9

*

 

Director

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Elliot S. Kaplan

 

168,211

10

*

 

 

165,561

10

*

 

Secretary and Director

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sanjay Khosla

 

3,750

11

*

 

Director

 

 

 

 

 

Allen U. Lenzmeier

 

2,414,034

11

*

 

 

2,479,034

12

*

 

Vice Chairman and Director

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

George L. Mikan, III

 

12

*

 

George L. Mikan III

 

7,500

13

*

 

Director

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Matthew H. Paull

 

42,169

13

*

 

 

55,169

14

*

 

Director

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rogelio M. Rebolledo

 

12,500

14

*

 

 

20,000

15

*

 

Director

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mary A. Tolan

 

43,000

15

*

 

Director

 

 

 

 

 

Frank D. Trestman

 

191,285

16

*

 

 

196,785

16

*

 

Director

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hatim A. Tyabji

 

119,250

17

*

 

 

126,750

17

*

 

Director

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gérard R. Vittecoq

 

3,750

18

*

 

Director

 

 

 

 

 

All directors and executive officers, as a group (27 individuals)

 

79,856,277

19

19.0

%

Capital Research Global Investors

 

22,170,850

20

5.4

%

333 South Hope Street

 

 

 

 

 

Los Angeles, CA 90071

 

 

 

 

 

Capital World Investors

 

40,486,680

21

9.8

%

333 South Hope Street

 

 

 

 

 

Los Angeles, CA 90071

 

 

 

 

 

 

14



All directors and executive officers, as a group (28 individuals)

 

78,571,378

18

19.1

%

Capital Research Global Investors

 

29,338,450

19

7.1

%

333 South Hope Street

 

 

 

 

 

Los Angeles, CA 90071

 

 

 

 

 

Capital World Investors

 

54,069,200

20

13.2

%

333 South Hope Street

 

 

 

 

 

Los Angeles, CA 90071

 

 

 

 

 

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc./ Goldman, Sachs & Co.

 

25,603,736

21

6.2

%

85 Broad Street

 

 

 

 

 

New York, NY 10004

 

 

 

 

 

*                                            Less than 1%.

 

1                                            The business address for all directors and executive officers is 7601 Penn Avenue South, Richfield, Minnesota 55423.

 

2                                            The figure represents: (a) 62,497,77660,035,576 outstanding shares registered in the name of Mr. Schulze and a co-trustee, and held by them as trustees of a trust for the benefit of Mr. Schulze, of which up to $150 million aggregate amount of shares have been

23



Table of Contents

pledged by the trust as collateral to secure a line of credit (b) 996,7564,465,930 outstanding shares registered in the name of Mr. Schulze and co-trustees, and held by them as trustees of trusts for the benefit of Mr. Schulze and his family; (c) 1,326,769 outstanding shares registered in the name of Mr. Schulze and a co-trustee, and held by them as trustees of the Sandra Schulze Revocable Trust dated June 14, 2001; (d) 950,169 outstanding shares held by a limited partnership of which Mr. Schulze is the sole general partner (Mr. Schulze has disclaimed beneficial ownership of these shares except to the extent of his monetary interest therein); (e) 252,312 outstanding shares held by a limited partnership of which a limited liability company owned by Mr. Schulze is the sole general partner (Mr. Schulze has disclaimed beneficial ownership of these shares except to the extent of his monetary interest therein); (f) 31,672 outstanding shares held by a limited partnership of which a limited liability company owned by Mr. Schulze is the sole general partner (Mr. Schulze has disclaimed beneficial ownership of these shares except to the extent of his monetary interest therein); (g) 15,27018,906 outstanding shares registered in the name of Mr. Schulze and held by him as trustee of trusts for the benefit of the children of Mr. Schulze’s spouse (Mr. Schulze has disclaimed beneficial ownership of these shares); (h) 1,72811,728 outstanding shares registered in the name of Mr. Schulze’s spouse and co-trustees, and held by them as trustees of trusts for the benefit of Mr. Schulze’s spouse (Mr. Schulze has disclaimed beneficial ownership of these shares); (i) 2,061 outstanding shares held in Mr. Schulze’s individual retirement account; (j) 1,619,4381,955,558 outstanding shares owned by The Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation, of which Mr. Schulze is the sole director; (k) 74,60577,001 outstanding shares registered in the name of JPMorgan Chase Bank (the “Trustee”), and held by the Trustee in connection with Best Buy’s Retirement Savings Plan for the benefit of Mr. Schulze; and (l) options to purchase 1,965,0001,736,250 shares, which he could exercise within 60 days of March 1, 2008.February 28, 2009.

 

3                                            The figure represents: (a) 1,606,5771,636,255 outstanding shares owned by Mr. Anderson; (b) 337,839 outstanding shares held by a limited partnership of which a limited liability company owned by Mr. Anderson and his spouse is the sole general partner and of which Mr. Anderson and his spouse are limited partners individually; (c) 151,87765,893 outstanding shares registered in the name of Mr. Anderson and a co-trustee, and held by them as trustees of a trust for the benefit of Mr. Anderson; (d) 151,877(c) 65,893 outstanding shares registered in the name of Mr. Anderson’s spouse and a co-trustee, and held by them as trustees of a trust for the benefit of Mr. Anderson’s spouse (Mr. Anderson has disclaimed beneficial ownership of these shares); (d) 337,839 outstanding shares held by a limited partnership of which a limited liability company owned by Mr. Anderson and his spouse is the sole general partner and of which Mr. Anderson and his spouse are limited partners individually; (e) 85,984 outstanding shares registered in the name of Mr. Anderson’s spouse and co-trustees, and held by them as trustees of trusts for the benefit of Mr. Anderson’s spouse (Mr. Anderson has disclaimed beneficial ownership of these shares); (f) 1,800 outstanding shares registered in the name of Mr. Anderson and held by him as custodian for the benefit of his children (Mr. Anderson has disclaimed beneficial ownership of these shares); (f) 12,059(g) 195,505 outstanding shares owned by the Anderson Family Foundation, of which Mr. Anderson is a director; (h) 85,984 outstanding shares registered in the name of Mr. Anderson and co-trustees, and held by them as trustees of trusts for the benefit of Mr. Anderson and his family; (i) 12,316 outstanding shares registered in the name of the Trustee, and held by the Trustee in connection with Best Buy’s Retirement Savings Plan for the benefit of Mr. Anderson; (g) 195,505 outstanding shares owned by the Anderson Family Foundation, of which Mr. Anderson is a director; and (h)(j) options to purchase 1,533,7501,338,750 shares, which he could exercise within 60 days of March 1, 2008.February 28, 2009.

 

4                                            The figure represents: (a) 6,48925,180 outstanding shares owned by Mr. Muehlbauer; (b) 1,514 outstanding shares held in Mr. Muehlbauer’s individual retirement account; (c) 907911 outstanding shares registered in the name of the Trustee, and held by the Trustee in connection with Best Buy’s Retirement Savings Plan for the benefit of Mr. Muehlbauer; and (d) options to purchase 93,091120,567 shares, which he could exercise within 60 days of March 1, 2008.February 28, 2009.

 

   ��5                                            The figure represents: (a) 8,55538,540 outstanding shares owned by Mr. Dunn; (b) 13,83915,265 outstanding shares registered in the name of the Trustee, and held by the Trustee in connection with Best Buy’s Retirement Savings Plan for the benefit of Mr. Dunn; and (c) options to purchase 344,886445,699 shares, which he could exercise within 60 days of March 1, 2008.February 28, 2009.

 

6                                            The figure represents: (a) 159,970190,463 outstanding shares owned by Mr. Willett; (b) 6031,596 outstanding shares registered in the name of the Trustee, and held by the Trustee in connection with Best Buy’s Retirement Savings Plan for the benefit of Mr. Willett; and (c) options to purchase 237,627297,816 shares, which he could exercise within 60 days of March 1, 2008.February 28, 2009.

 

7                                            The figure represents: (a) 40041,526 outstanding shares owned by Mr. Layden;Ms. Ballard; (b) 60011,904 outstanding shares heldregistered in Mr. Layden’s individual retirement account; (c) 843 outstanding sharesthe name of the Trustee, and held by Mr. Layden’s spousethe Trustee in her individual retirement account;connection with Best Buy’s Retirement Savings Plan for the benefit of Ms. Ballard; and (d) options to purchase 159,450123,829 shares, which heshe could exercise within 60 days of March 1, 2008.February 28, 2009.

 

8                                            The figure represents: (a) 5,730 outstanding shares owned by Ms. Higgins Victor; and (b) options to purchase 37,50045,000 shares, which she could exercise within 60 days of March 1, 2008.February 28, 2009.

 

9                                            The figure represents: (a) 3,5003,504 outstanding shares owned by Mr. James; and (b) options to purchase 37,50045,000 shares, which he could exercise within 60 days of March 1, 2008.February 28, 2009.

 

10                                        The figure represents: (a) 63,21164,311 outstanding shares owned by Mr. Kaplan; and (b) options to purchase 105,000101,250 shares, which he could exercise within 60 days of March 1, 2008.February 28, 2009.

 

24



Table of Contents

11The figure represents options to purchase 3,750 shares, which Mr. Khosla could exercise within 60 days of February 28, 2009.

12                                        The figure represents: (a) 1,582,1341,452,134 outstanding shares owned by Mr. Lenzmeier; (b) 150,000 outstanding shares registered in the name of Mr. Lenzmeier and a co-trustee, and held by them as trustees of a trust for the benefit of Mr. Lenzmeier; (c) 51,900 outstanding shares held by a private family foundationthe Lenzmeier Family Foundation, of which Mr. Lenzmeier and his spouse are the sole directors and officers; and (c)(d) options to purchase 780,000825,000 shares, which he could exercise within 60 days of March 1, 2008.February 28, 2009.

 

1213                                        The figure represents options to purchase 7,500 shares, which Mr. Mikan joined the Board in April 2008 and did not own any shares at March 1, 2008.could exercise within 60 days of February 28, 2009.

 

1314                                        The figure represents: (a) 4,66910,169 outstanding shares owned by Mr. Paull; and (b) options to purchase 37,50045,000 shares, which he could exercise within 60 days of March 1, 2008.February 28, 2009.

 

1415                                        The figure represents options to purchase 12,50020,000 shares, which Mr. Rebolledo could exercise within 60 days of March 1, 2008.February 28, 2009.

 

15



1516   ��                                    The figure represents: (a) 5,500 outstanding shares owned by Ms. Tolan; and (b) options to purchase 37,500 shares, which she could exercise within 60 days of March 1, 2008.

16The figure represents: (a) 60,53570,535 outstanding shares owned by Mr. Trestman; (b) 25,000 outstanding shares registered in the name of Mr. Trestman’s spouse as trustee of an irrevocable family trust (Mr. Trestman has disclaimed beneficial ownership of these shares); and (c) options to purchase 105,750101,250 shares, which Mr. Trestman could exercise within 60 days of March 1, 2008.February 28, 2009.

 

17                                        The figure represents: (a) 25,50048,000 outstanding shares owned by Mr. Tyabji; and (b) options to purchase 93,75078,750 shares, which he could exercise within 60 days of March 1, 2008.February 28, 2009.

 

18The figure represents options to purchase 3,750 shares, which Mr. Vittecoq could exercise within 60 days of February 28, 2009.

19                                        The figure represents: (a) outstanding shares and options described in the preceding footnotes; (b) 137,299143,931 outstanding shares owned by other executive officers;officers, including 51,710 shares owned by David J. Morrish, a named executive officer, who voluntarily terminated his employment with us effective February 28, 2009, pursuant to our Voluntary Separation Program, described on page []; (c) options granted to other executive officers to purchase 564,187539,323 shares, which they could exercise within 60 days of March 1, 2008;February 28, 2009, including 52,018 shares owned by Mr. Morrish; and (d) 41,59910,529 outstanding shares registered in the name of the Trustee, and held by the Trustee in connection with Best Buy’s Retirement Savings Plan for the benefit of other executive officers.

 

19As reported on the owner’s most recent Schedule 13G that reported beneficial ownership as of December 31, 2007. Capital Research Global Investors has sole voting power over 14,498,600 shares and sole dispositive power over 29,338,450 shares.

20                                        As reported on the owner’s most recent Schedule 13G that reported beneficial ownership as of December 31, 2007.2008. Capital WorldResearch Global Investors has sole voting power over 9,991,35013,393,000 shares and sole dispositive power over 54,069,20022,170,850 shares.

 

21                                        As reported on the owner’s most recent Schedule 13G that reported beneficial ownership as of December 31, 2007. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.2008. Capital World Investors has sharedsole voting power over 25,362,6217,851,350 shares and sharedsole dispositive power over 25,603,73640,486,680 shares.

25



Table of Contents

 

SECTION 16(a) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE

 

Section 16(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 requires that our directors, executive officers and shareholders who own more than 10% of our Common Stockcommon stock file initial reports of ownership with the SEC and the NYSE. They must also file reports of changes in ownership with the SEC and the NYSE. In addition, they are required by SEC regulations to provide us copies of all Section 16(a) reports that they file with the SEC. Based solely on a review of such Section 16(a) reports, management and the Board believe our directors, executive officers and owners ofshareholders who own more than 10% of our outstanding equity securities complied with the reporting requirements during the fiscal year ended March 1, 2008.February 28, 2009, except that due to an administrative delay, a report was not filed in a timely manner for a purchase of common stock on October 22, 2008, by Richard M. Schulze, Chairman.

 

26



Table of Contents

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

 

Compensation Discussion and Analysis

 

Our Compensation Discussion and Analysis describes the material elements of compensation for the following groups and individuals, collectively referred to as theour “named executive officers:”

“Group 1 Officers,”officers” who are:

 

·Bradbury H. Anderson, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer;

 

·      Darren R. Jackson, formerJames L. Muehlbauer, Executive Vice President  Finance and Chief Financial Officer, and former Executive Vice President — Customer Operating Groups;Officer;

 

·Brian J. Dunn, President and Chief Operating Officer; and

 

·Robert A. Willett, Chief Executive Officer  Best Buy International and Chief Information Officer.Officer;

“Group 2 Officers,” who are:

 

·      JamesShari L. Muehlbauer, Enterprise Chief Financial Officer (Interim);Ballard, Executive Vice President – Retail Channel Management; and

 

·      Kevin T. Layden, Chief Operating Officer — International.David J. Morrish, former Executive Vice President – Connected Digital Solutions.

 

We dividedFor fiscal 2009, the named executive officers into two groups because the compensation programs and the circumstances and decision-making processes that determined compensation for each group were materially different. We believe that separating the named executive officers into groups based on their participation in common programs, evaluation under similar standards and other commonalities enhances the clarity and readability of our Compensation Discussion and Analysis. For fiscal 2008, Messrs. Anderson, Jackson, Dunn and Willett were included in a group because they generally participated in the same compensation programs and were evaluated under similar standards. Wesimilarly. However, Mr. Morrish voluntarily terminated his employment with us effective February 28, 2009, and is included Messrs. Muehlbauer and Layden inas a separate group because their status as named executive officers was theofficer as a result of special circumstances, they were generally subjectthe payment he received pursuant to our Voluntary Separation Program, as described below. In some instances, Mr. Morrish was evaluated under a different evaluation standards, and they participated in compensation programs that were more narrowly tailored based on their respective positions.set of factors than the other named executive officers.

16



 

For ease of use, the Compensation Discussion and Analysis is divided into fourthree sections:

 

 

 

 

Page

·

Compensation Philosophy, Objectives and Process


A discussion of our compensation philosophy for all employees, the objectives of our compensation programs and policies, and the process we use to determine compensation for our named executive compensation.officers.

 

[]

 

 

·

Compensation for Group 1Named Executive Officers


A discussion and analysis of individual compensation elements and the process used to determine fiscal 20082009 compensation for the Group 1 Officers, which include Messrs. Anderson, Jackson, Dunn and Willett.our named executive officers.

 

[]

 

 

·

Compensation for Group 2 Officers

A discussion and analysis of individual compensation elements and the process used to determine fiscal 2008 compensation for the Group 2 Officers, which include Messrs. Muehlbauer and Layden.

[   ]

·

Other Compensation Matters

A discussion of programs and policies which are generally applicable to the named executive officers.

[   ]

Compensation Philosophy, Objectives and Process

“Total Rewards” Philosophy.  We believe our success depends on employees at all levels using their unique strengths, experiences and ideas to foster innovation and build strong customer relationships. While our compensation and benefit programs are important tools in attracting and retaining talented employees, we also believe that non-monetary factors such as work environment, learning and development opportunities, and relationships between employees and managers are critical to provide a rewarding employee experience. Collectively, these elements comprise our “Total Rewards” philosophy. We believe this company-wide approach to attracting, motivating and retaining talent is a competitive advantage.

Our Total Rewards philosophy seeks to:

·      Provide employees with a greater choice of rewards that are most valued by them;

·      Differentiate rewards to individuals, based on their contributions;

·      Encourage and recognize experimentation, entrepreneurship and innovation; and

·      Reward employee contributions for achieving strong financial and non-financial results.

We implement the Total Rewards philosophy by employing broad-based programs that are designed to align employee interests and create a common vision of success.

Compensation Objectives.  Our compensation program and policies serve the following objectives:

·      Reward employees for creating shareholder value and for comparative performance against external benchmarks;

·      Align long-term employee and shareholder interests;

·      Motivate employees to achieve short-term financial, operational, customer and employee outcomes that materially contribute to the sustainable, long-term health of Best Buy;

·      Attract talent necessary to develop new capabilities and enhance existing competencies; and

·      Maintain a flexible compensation structure that provides for potential wealth accumulation for superior growth or achieving key strategic objectives.

How We Determine Compensation.   The Compensation Committee is responsible for determining and approving executive compensation. In addition, the Compensation Committee oversees the development, evaluation and approval of incentive compensation, equity-based and other employee benefit plans for all employees, including our executive officers. The Compensation Committee is authorized to delegate to management certain responsibilities regarding our employee compensation and benefit plans, as specified in the Compensation Committee’s charter, which is posted on our Web site at www.BestBuy.com — select the “For Our Investors” link and then the “Corporate Governance” link.

The Compensation Committee established and annually reviews our Total Rewards philosophy and our compensation objectives, and oversees the design, competitiveness and effectiveness of compensation programs for our executive officers. At the beginning of each fiscal year, our Human Resources leadership team (“HR”) provides the Compensation Committee with compensation recommendations for the executive officers. The HR presentation includes an analysis prepared in support of the recommendations. The analysis includes a summary of the results of our application of our “Executive Compensation Framework” to each of our executive officers. Our “Executive Compensation Framework” includes a variety of internal and external factors, and is described in greater detail below. The internal factors are generally applied and analyzed by HR. HR has engaged a third-party compensation consultant, Towers Perrin, a global professional services firm, to assist in the development of compensation data that is used to facilitate the application and analysis of the external factors. The Compensation Committee reviews the recommendations with The Delves Group, an independent compensation consulting firm retained by the Compensation Committee, and discusses them with HR. The Compensation Committee’s review is comprehensive and includes consideration of many factors, including: (i) the alignment of the proposed compensation with our Total Rewards philosophy; (ii) the alignment of the proposed

17



compensation with our compensation objectives; (iii) the overall value of the compensation package, relative to internal factors and external benchmarks; and (iv) our decision not to offer supplemental compensation, benefits, perquisites and protections commonly extended to executive officers of other large companies. The process for evaluating the named executive officers’ compensation packages based on internal factors, external benchmarks and the lack of supplemental compensation is described in greater detail below.

Executive Compensation Framework.  For fiscal 2008, the total direct compensation of our Group 1 Officers and Mr. Muehlbauer was determined by applying our Executive Compensation Framework to each individual. The determination of Mr. Layden’s fiscal 2008 compensation was not based on our Executive Compensation Framework and is discussed in Compensation for Group 2 Officers — Kevin T. Layden beginning on page [__]. Our Executive Compensation Framework consists of a set of internal and external factors that allow for a comprehensive, multi-faceted evaluation of total compensation based on each individual’s personal attributes and talents, and objective external market data. The factors are not required to carry equal weight, but are all considered in determining the compensation recommendation for each individual. We believe that the diversity of the factors included in our Executive Compensation Framework and our flexibility in their application allows us to attribute appropriate value to each individual and enhances our ability to develop compensation packages that (i) further our compensation objectives, (ii) further one or more of our strategic initiatives, (iii) maximize each individual’s perceived value of his or her total compensation, and (iv) produce the highest return on our compensation investment.

For fiscal 2008, the internal and external factors that comprised our Executive Compensation Framework were as follows:

Factor

Description

Internal

Job Value

The internal value of the position relative to other executive officer positions, based on the primary job responsibilities, expected scope and nature of the job’s impact - relative rank within the organization depends upon the extent to which the executive will be accountable for specific enterprise strategic and operational challenges.

Personal Attributes

The executive’s industry and functional knowledge, intuition and insight, diversity of experience, entrepreneurial disposition and personal networks - in order to be considered for compensation purposes, these factors must be highly related to the success of the business strategies to be led by the executive.

Leadership/Values

The executive’s demonstration of our values, and ability to inspire and influence others.

Talent Development

The executive’s ability to cultivate talent that enhances business results, including succession planning.

Existing Compensation Arrangements

The executive’s outstanding equity awards, performance-based incentives and compensation history.

External

Peer Group Observations

Includes publicly-available information regarding actions taken by peer companies to attract and retain senior leadership talent.

Market Data

Includes compensation data for our peer group of companies (as determined by the Compensation Committee), the Fortune 100 companies and other national salary surveys.

We assessed the internal factors contained in the Executive Compensation Framework for Messrs. Muehlbauer, Jackson, Dunn and Willett, based on the results of our annual talent assessment process and a review of executive profiles developed for succession planning purposes. The talent assessment process included an evaluation of each individual’s performance and demonstration of Best Buy’s values relative to their peers. The individual profiles were developed through a comprehensive process, which included discussions with the Chief Executive Officer, the individuals’ peers, third-party executive coaches and each individual personally. The profiles contain analyses and information regarding factors similar to the internal factors contained in the Executive Compensation Framework. The internal factors were applied to Mr. Anderson based on an evaluation of his performance conducted by the Board.

We applied the external factors to each Group 1 Officer and Mr. Muehlbauer based on a review of publicly-available compensation data for our peer group of companies and the Fortune 100. We also considered actions taken by companies with which we compete for executive talent. We use available information and monitor actions taken by our peers to evaluate market trends and to assess the overall competitiveness of our executive compensation levels. We do not, however, seek to establish total direct compensation that falls within a prescribed range relative to our peer group of companies or the Fortune 100. In addition, the Compensation Committee may use our peer group of companies to evaluate:

·           The cost of the total direct compensation paid to our named executive officers;

·           The relationship between our financial performance and compensation paid to our named executive officers; and

·           The relative difficulty of our incentive performance targets.

The Compensation Committee annually evaluates the composition of our peer group of companies using revenue, financial, industry and other selection criteria. For fiscal 2008, the criteria used to determine the peer group of companies included:

·          Revenue of $5 billion or more;

·          Five-year growth rate of 10% or more based on economic profit, total shareholder return, revenue, net earnings and/or earnings per share measures;

18



·          Industry representation primarily weighted in the wholesale and retail sectors; and

·          Companies that are leaders in one or more of the following areas:

·      Employer of choice;

·      Customer service excellence;

·      Admiration within their industry;

·      Preferred brand(s);

·      Track record of innovation; and

·      One-third of revenues outside of the United States.

The selection criteria were intended to establish guidelines to assist in determining the composition of our peer group. As such, the Compensation Committee, in some cases, used its discretion to select companies that did not meet each of the criteria. Generally, these companies included those that compete directly with us or otherwise possessed traits that we considered imperative for success. We used lists published by Business Week and Fortune magazines to identify companies recognized as top employers, innovators, customer service providers, and other qualitative factors, for purposes of applying our selection criteria. Based on our comprehensive review, our peer group for fiscal 2008 and at the time compensation was determined for our named executive officers was comprised of the following companies:

·          Amazon.com, Inc.

·          Apple Inc.

·          Circuit City Stores, Inc.

·          Costco Wholesale Corporation

·          Dell Inc.

·          eBay Inc.

·          FedEx Corporation

·          Harley-Davidson, Inc.

·          Lowe’s Companies, Inc.

·          Nordstrom, Inc.

·          Staples, Inc.

·          Starbucks Corporation

·          Target Corporation

·          The TJX Companies, Inc.

·          Toyota Motor Corporation

·          Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

·          Walgreen Co.

·          The Walt Disney Company

·          Whole Foods Market, Inc.

·          Yahoo! Inc.

Certain Benefits and Perquisites.  In addition to our evaluation of total compensation under the Executive Compensation Framework, we also considered that many companies offer the following supplemental compensation, benefits, perquisites and protections to their executive officers:

19



·           Employment agreements;

·           Severance or change-in-control agreements;

·           Pension plan benefits;

·           Supplemental retirement plan benefits;

·           Executive life insurance benefits; and

·           Country club memberships.

During fiscal 2008, we did not provide these types of compensation, benefits and perquisites to our named executive officers because they are contrary to our culture and are not consistent with our compensation objectives. Because many of the items listed above are linked to base salary and short-term incentive pay, our decision not to provide them generally reduces the amount of total compensation received by our named executive officers relative to other large companies. Additional information regarding the benefits and perquisites available to the named executive officers is included in Perquisites and other Benefits on page [__].

Role of Independent Compensation Consultant in Determining Compensation.  The Compensation Committee reviews HR’s executive compensation recommendations with The Delves Group, an independent compensation consulting firm retained by the Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee believes that this review helps ensure that HR’s compensation recommendations are in line with our stated objectives and reasonable when compared to the market for executive talent. In addition, the engagement of an independent consultant enhances the overall independence of the Compensation Committee’s decision-making. The Delves Group reports directly to the Compensation Committee and does not provide any consulting or other services to Best Buy.

Role of Management Compensation Consultant in Determining Compensation.  HR has engaged a third-party compensation consultant, Towers Perrin, a global professional services firm, to assist in the development and analysis of external compensation data that is used to facilitate HR’s executive compensation recommendations to the Compensation Committee. At the request of HR and with the consent of the Compensation Committee, a representative of Towers Perrin regularly attends meetings of the Compensation Committee to address matters directly related to the engagement, including questions regarding external market data and related analyses. Towers Perrin reports directly to HR and does not engage with the Compensation Committee, except at the request and under the direction of HR.

Role of Executive Officers in Determining Compensation.  With the exception of rating the individual performance and assessing the talent of his direct reports, which may impact their cash compensation or annual long-term incentive awards, our Chief Executive Officer does not participate in or otherwise influence HR’s compensation recommendations for either himself or our executive officers.  Our Chief Executive Officer is, however, generally present when HR presents compensation recommendations (except for recommendations regarding his compensation) for our executive officers to the Compensation Committee and provides his perspective regarding the recommendations.  Our other executive officers do not participate in the development of compensation recommendations or the approval process.

Summary of Compensation and Benefit Programs.  We maintain a variety of compensation and benefit programs in which our executive officers and other selected employees participate. These programs include, but are not limited to, our 2004 Omnibus Stock and Incentive Plan, as amended (“Omnibus Plan”); our Executive Officer Short-Term Incentive Program (“Executive Officer STIP”); our Long-Term Incentive Program (“LTIP”); our Deferred Compensation Plan; our Retirement Savings Plan; and our 2003 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (“ESPP”).

Compensation for Group 1 Officers

Elements of Compensation.  The fiscal 2008 compensation for our Group 1 Officers included the following elements:

Element

Form(s) of Compensation

Purpose

Performance Metric(s)

Base Salary

Cash

Provide competitive, fixed compensation to attract and retain exceptional executive talent

Not performance-based

Short-Term Incentive

Cash

Create a strong financial incentive for achieving or exceeding a combination of company and executive management team goals

EVA®; operating income rate; revenue growth rate; SG&A rate

Long-Term Incentive

Stock options, restricted stock, and performance-based awards settled in stock or cash

Create a strong financial incentive for achieving or exceeding long-term performance goals and encourage a significant equity stake in our company

Best Buy Common Stock price, TSR, EVA®

Special Long-Term Incentive1

Restricted stock

Reward superior performance and retain exceptional executive talent

Not based on future performance

20



Health, Retirement and Other Benefits

Eligibility to participate in benefit plans generally available to our employees, including retirement, stock purchase, health, life insurance and disability plans

Plans are part of our broad-based employee benefits program

Not performance-based

Executive Benefits and Perquisites

Annual executive physical exam, supplemental long-term disability insurance, four weeks of paid vacation, expanded employee discount, stock ownership target planning and tax planning or preparation services

Provide competitive benefits to promote the health, well-being and financial security of our executive officers

Not performance-based

1Special long-term incentive awards were granted only to Messrs. Jackson and Willett during fiscal 2008.

Analysis of Compensation Elements for Group 1 Officers

Base Salary.  The Compensation Committee generally determines base salary levels for the Group 1 Officers and other executive officers early in the fiscal year, with changes becoming effective during the first quarter of each fiscal year. The base salaries for the Group 1 Officers that became effective in the first quarter of fiscal 2008 were established based on an assessment of each Group 1 Officer under our Executive Compensation Framework. For fiscal 2008, the changes in base salaries for the Group 1 Officers and the key factors considered were as follows:

Name

 

Fiscal 2008
Base Salary

 

Fiscal 2007
Base Salary

 

Percent
Change

 

Key Factors

Mr. Anderson

 

$1,172,995

 

$1,172,995

 

 

Internal Factors:

·      Highest ranking role in the company

·      Ability and passion to foster innovation and change

·      High ethical conduct and exemplary values

·      Demonstrated progress in identifying and developing future leaders

 

External Factors:

·      Total cash compensation below median of Fortune 100 and at high end of the peer group range

·      Fortune 100 determined to be better comparison than peer group for purposes of evaluating CEO pay due to the size and complexity of our business

 

Mr. Jackson

 

650,000

 

600,000

 

8.3%

 

Internal Factors:

·      Expanded job responsibilities, including oversight of growth business units

·      Strong financial acumen and ability to connect company strategies with expected financial outcomes

·      Advocate for strong corporate governance and effective internal controls

 

External Factors:

·      Total cash compensation below median of Fortune 100 and at middle-to-high end of the peer group range

·      Market data comparison for CFO role does not account for expansion of Mr. Jackson’s job duties beyond traditional CFO role

 

Mr. Dunn

 

780,000

 

750,000

 

4.0%

 

Internal Factors:

·      Second highest ranking role in the company

·      Highly complex position responsible for management of dramatic organizational changes

·      Strong motivator and powerful brand representative

·      Well-respected leader with established record of successful entry into new markets

 

External Factors:

·      Total cash compensation slightly below median of Fortune 100 and peer group

·      Compensation generally in-line with market

 

21



Mr. Willett

700,000

625,000

12.0%

Internal Factors:

·      Leader of key international operations that are highly important to company growth

·      Demonstrated strategic ability to create multiple growth options facilitated by expansive and diverse business network

·      Ability to attract exceptional talent to the company and create leading-edge information technology, supply chain and merchandising platforms that produce a competitive advantage

External Factors:

·      Total cash compensation near median of Fortune 100 and at high end of the peer group range

·      Compensation at high end of the peer group range due to the high strategic importance of the position, the aggressiveness of our international growth strategy relative to our peer group and Mr. Willett’s dual role as chief international executive and chief information officer for the company

Short-Term Incentive.  For fiscal 2008, the Group 1 Officers received performance-based, short-term incentive awards pursuant to our Executive Officer STIP. The Executive Officer STIP awards, payable in cash, were expressed as a percentage ranging from 125% to 200% of each Group 1 Officer’s base salary, called the “Incentive Target Percentage.” The Incentive Target Percentage for each Group 1 Officer was determined based on application of our Executive Compensation Framework, with particular emphasis placed on the internal job ranking of each position. We emphasized internal job ranking because we believe that it is important that a higher percentage of cash compensation be linked to our performance for higher ranking positions. In addition, we considered the value of total cash compensation in light of the external factors described in Base Salary, above, to ensure that we remain competitive in the market for executive talent. Based on actual performance compared with specific goals, the Group 1 Officers could earn zero to two times their Incentive Target Percentage. We call this factor the “Incentive Multiplier.” The purpose of the Incentive Multiplier is to modify the incentive payout based on actual performance compared with targets approved by the Compensation Committee. The performance results are translated to company and team performance scores, which are then multiplied to determine the Incentive Multiplier. The formula below shows how the short-term incentive payments were determined for fiscal 2008:

Base Salary x Incentive Target Percentage x Incentive Multiplier1= Incentive Payout

1Incentive Multiplier = Company Performance score x Team Performance score

The “Company Performance” score was determined based on our company’s Economic Value Added, or EVA® (“EVA”) performance for fiscal 2008 compared with a target approved by the Compensation Committee. We believe the use of EVA as a primary incentive factor demonstrates our commitment to linking executive compensation with increasing shareholder value. EVA measures the amount by which our after-tax profits, after certain adjustments, exceed our cost of capital. Certain unplanned events, such as acquisitions and the effect of accounting changes, are excluded for purposes of determining EVA. The EVA target for fiscal 2008 was established based on historical company performance and target-setting practices, as well as investor and market expectations. Based on an analysis of those factors, our fiscal 2008 EVA target was $465 million, equivalent to approximately 15% growth in our earnings per share. For the Group 1 Officers to earn any portion of the short-term incentive awards, the company had to achieve a minimum of $326 million of EVA, or 70% of the target amount. To earn an above-target Company Performance score, the company had to achieve at least $472 million of EVA, or 101% of the target amount. The potential EVA ranges and corresponding Company Performance score values for fiscal 2008 were as follows:

EVA
($ in millions)

Percentage of Target

Company Performance
Score

$551 or greater

118% or greater

1.6

472 – 550

101% - 118%

1.1 – 1.4

432 - 471

93% - 101%

1.0

326 – 431

70% - 93%

0.5 – 0.9

Less than 326

Less than 70%

0.0

For fiscal 2008, our actual EVA performance was [$438] million, which resulted in a Company Performance score of [1.0].

The “Team Performance” score was determined based on the average of the following company metrics: (i) operating income rate; (ii) revenue growth rate; and (iii) selling, general and administrative expenses (“SG&A”) rate, all measured in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). Our fiscal 2008 performance against each of these metrics was compared with targets approved by the Compensation Committee. The Team Performance targets were derived from the overall EVA objective described above. For fiscal 2008, the potential operating income rate, revenue growth rate and SG&A rate ranges, and corresponding Team Performance scores were as follows:

Operating Income Rate

Revenue Growth Rate

SG&A Rate

Team Performance
Score

6.3% or greater

10.1% or greater

17.9% or lower

1.25

6.1% - 6.2%

9.6% - 10.0%

18.0% - 18.1%

1.12

5.9% - 6.0%

9.1% - 9.5%

18.2% - 18.3%

1.0

5.4% - 5.8%

8.0% - 9.0%

18.4% – 18.8%

0.4 – 0.9

Less than 5.4%

Less than 8.0%

18.9% or greater

0.4

22



For fiscal 2008, our operating income rate was 5.4%, our revenue growth rate was 11.4% and our SG&A rate was 18.5%. Based on these results, the Team Performance score was computed as follows:

Performance Metric

Result

Score

Operating Income Rate

5.4%

[0.4]

Revenue Growth Rate

11.4%

[1.25]

SG&A Rate

18.5%

[0.9]

Team Performance Score1

[0.85]

1The Team Performance score was computed as the average of the scores for all three metrics.

To determine the Incentive Multiplier, the Company Performance and Team Performance scores are multiplied. Based on the actual Company Performance and Team Performance scores, the Incentive Multiplier for fiscal 2008 was [0.85].

The fiscal 2008 short-term incentive payments to our Group 1 Officers, as determined based on the formulas described above, were as follows:

 

 

Base
Salary

X

Incentive
Target
Percentage

=

Incentive
Target

X

Incentive
Multiplier

=

Incentive
Payout

 

Mr. Anderson

 

$

 1,172,995

 

200%

 

$

 2,345,990

 

[0.85]

 

$

 [1,994,092]

 

Mr. Jackson

 

650,000

 

125

 

812,500

 

[0.85]

 

1

Mr. Dunn

 

780,000

 

150

 

1,170,000

 

[0.85]

 

[994,500]

 

Mr. Willett

 

700,000

 

125

 

875,000

 

[0.85]

 

[743,750]

 

1Mr. Jackson did not receive an Incentive Payout because he terminated employment with us prior to the end of fiscal 2008.

Long-Term Incentive.  Pursuant to our LTIP, established under the Omnibus Plan, we make annual long-term incentive awards to our Group 1 Officers and other eligible employees. For fiscal 2008, our Group 1 Officers, except for Mr. Anderson (who requested that he not be granted a long-term incentive award and that the options to purchase shares that he would have received be contributed to a discretionary award pool to be distributed to employees who are not otherwise eligible to receive LTIP awards) were able to select from among four long-term incentive mix choices, which included combinations of stock options, restricted stock and performance-based awards that are settled in stock or cash. We call this our “LTIP Choice” feature. Each of the incentive mix choices were of substantially similar economic value, but had different risk and reward profiles due to varying performance metrics and award characteristics. The award choices are described in greater detail below.

We decided to offer LTIP Choice to our Group 1 Officers because it aligns with our Total Rewards philosophy to provide a greater choice of rewards that are most valued by them. We believe that this approach maximizes the perceived value of the award by the recipient, promotes retention and increases motivation to achieve company objectives. Under LTIP Choice, an initial award value, denominated in stock options, was determined for each participating Group 1 Officer. For fiscal 2008, the value of LTIP awards for the Group 1 Officers was lower compared with awards approved in the prior fiscal year, and was below the median value compared with our peer group of companies and the Fortune 100. The decrease was the result of our decision to direct a greater percentage of overall long-term incentive awards to our store managers in recognition of their significant role in developing relationships with our customers. The initial LTIP award values for the Group 1 Officers were reviewed and approved by the Compensation Committee. The value of each award was convertible, at pre-established exchange rates, by the Group 1 Officers into the following long-term incentive mix choices:

Incentive Mix

Choice #1

100% Stock Options

Choice #2

50% Stock Options

50% Performance Shares

Choice #3

50% Stock Options

50% Restricted Stock

Choice #4

50% Restricted Stock

50% Performance Units

“Stock Options” are non-qualified stock option awards that have a term of 10 years and become exercisable over a four-year period at the rate of 25% per year, beginning one year from the date of grant. The stock option exercise price is equal to the closing price of our Common Stock on the grant date, as quoted on the NYSE.

“Performance Shares”are a type of performance-based restricted stock award that will be earned if our Common Stock achieves a certain total shareholder return (“TSR”) as compared to the TSR of companies that comprise the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index during a three-year incentive period which started on March 2, 2008 (the beginning of fiscal 2009), and ends on February 26, 2011 (the end of fiscal 2011), at which time the earned performance shares are scheduled to vest. TSR is the compound annual growth rate that shareholders receive on their investment, including both paid dividends and stock price appreciation. The following is a summary of performance share awards that may be earned based on varying levels of our TSR performance in relation to the TSR performance of the Standard & Poor’s 500 Index:

Best Buy TSR vs. TSR of the Standard &
Poor’s 500 Index Over
Three-Year Incentive Period

Percent of
Performance
Share Award
That Will Vest

75th  Percentile and Above

150%

23



50th Percentile and Above, but Less Than 75th  Percentile

100%-149%

40th  Percentile and Above, but Less Than 50th Percentile

50%-99%

25th  Percentile and Above, but Less Than 40th Percentile

0%-49%

Below the 25th  Percentile

0%

“Restricted Stock”is another type of performance-based restricted stock award that will be earned if our fiscal 2009 EVA achieves a certain level compared with our fiscal 2009 EVA target as determined by the Compensation Committee.  The fiscal 2009 EVA target of $[___] was generally determined in the same manner as the fiscal 2008 EVA target. After the number of shares of restricted stock is determined and credited to the Group 1 Officer, the shares will be scheduled to vest on February 26, 2011 (the end of fiscal 2011), provided the Group 1 Officer remains employed with us through that date. The following is a summary of restricted stock awards that may be earned based on varying levels of our fiscal 2009 EVA performance as a percentage of our fiscal 2009 EVA target:

EVA as a Percentage
of  EVA Target

Percent of Restricted
Stock Award
That Will be Earned

111% and Above

125%

At least 91% but Less Than 111%

100%

At least 75% but Less Than 91%

75%

Below 75%

0%

“Performance Units” are denominated in U.S. dollars and paid in cash upon vesting. These awards will be earned if our fiscal 2009 EVA achieves a certain level compared with our fiscal 2009 EVA target as determined by the Compensation Committee. The fiscal 2009 EVA target of $[___] was generally determined in the same manner as the fiscal 2008 EVA target. After the number of Performance Units is determined and credited to the Group 1 Officer, the Performance Units will be scheduled to vest on February 26, 2011 (the end of fiscal 2011), provided the Group 1 Officer remains employed with us through that date. The following is a summary of Performance Unit awards that may be earned based on varying levels of our fiscal 2009 EVA performance as a percentage of our fiscal 2009 EVA target:

EVA as a Percentage
of  EVA Target

Dollar Value of
Performance
Unit Award
That Will be Earned

111% and Above

$1.25

At least 91% but Less Than 111%

1.00

At least 75% but Less Than 91%

0.75

Below 75%

0.00

For fiscal 2008, the Group 1 Officers, except for Mr. Anderson who did not receive an LTIP award, selected the following incentive mix choices:

Name

Incentive Mix Choice

Mr. Jackson

Choice #3 – 50% Stock Options, 50% Restricted Stock

Mr. Dunn

Choice #1 – 100% Stock Options

Mr. Willett

Choice #2 – 50% Stock Options, 50% Performance Shares

Additional information regarding the LTIP awards granted to the Group 1 Officers in fiscal 2008 is included in Grants of Plan-Based Awards on page [__].

Special Long-Term Incentives.  From time to time, we grant special long-term incentives for a variety of reasons, including (i) to recognize superior performance, (ii) to provide additional incentive for the achievement of critical business objectives, and (iii) to retain exceptional executive talent. Special long-term incentives can be awarded in various forms, including time and performance-based restricted stock, and discretionary cash awards. In fiscal 2008, we granted special long-term incentive awards to Messrs. Jackson and Willett in the form of time-based restricted stock. The purpose of the award for Mr. Jackson was primarily to promote retention. For Mr. Willett, the purpose of the award was to recognize him for producing substantial business benefits through leadership of our information systems and supply chain restructuring and outsourcing strategy, as well as to promote retention. The Compensation Committee considered the impact of the special awards’ values on Messrs. Jackson and Willett’s total compensation, relative to comparable positions within our peer group of companies and the Fortune 100. Including the value of the special long-term incentive award, the total direct compensation for Messrs. Jackson and Willett was between the middle and high end of the range compared with our peer group of companies and the Fortune 100. The Compensation Committee determined that total direct compensation in that range was reasonable because of the important contributions both individuals were expected to make in executing our key business strategies. The shares underlying Mr. Jackson’s award were scheduled to vest on April 26, 2010, but were irrevocably forfeited when he terminated employment with us on December 7, 2007.  All the shares subject to Mr. Willett’s award are also scheduled to vest on April 26, 2010, provided he has been continually employed with us through that date.  Additional information regarding the special long-term incentive awards granted to Messrs. Jackson and Willett in fiscal 2008 is included in Grants of Plan-Based Awards on page [__].

Compensation for Group 2 Officers

James L. Muehlbauer

Effective as of September 20, 2007, Mr. Muehlbauer was appointed as our interim chief financial officer, pending completion of our search for a permanent chief financial officer. Mr. Muehlbauer, who had previously served as our Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer - Best Buy U.S., is a candidate for the permanent chief financial officer position. At the time of his appointment, the Compensation Committee approved

24



additional compensation for Mr. Muehlbauer in recognition of his increased responsibilities as interim chief financial officer for the entire company. Mr. Muehlbauer’s compensation was determined through application of our Executive Compensation Framework, with emphasis on balancing his experience with external market data for comparable positions. For fiscal 2008, Mr. Muehlbauer generally received the same elements of compensation as the Group 1 Officers described in Elements of Compensation beginning on page [__]. The individual elements of Mr. Muehlbauer’s fiscal 2008 total compensation are discussed below.

Base Salary.  Mr. Muehlbauer’s base salary for fiscal 2008 of $349,763 had been set during the first fiscal quarter of the year when the base salaries of all of our executive officers were determined.  A base salary adjustment for Mr. Muehlbauer was not made at the time of his appointment as interim chief financial officer. In lieu of a base salary increase and due to the temporary nature of the position, the Compensation Committee approved a $15,000 cash bonus payment for each month Mr. Muehlbauer serves in the interim position. The amount of the monthly cash bonus payment was determined based on a review of external market data for comparable positions and in consideration of Mr. Muehlbauer’s increased job responsibilities.

Short-Term Incentive.  For fiscal 2008, Mr. Muehlbauer received a performance-based, short-term incentive award pursuant to our Corporate Short-Term Incentive Program (“Corporate STIP”). The Corporate STIP award, payable in cash, was expressed as 55% of Mr. Muehlbauer’s base salary, or Mr. Muehlbauer’s “Incentive Target Percentage.” In connection with his appointment as interim chief financial officer, Mr. Muehlbauer’s Incentive Target Percentage was increased to 100% of his base salary, based on his level of responsibility compared with similar positions in our peer group of companies and the Fortune 100, and relative to other Best Buy executive officer roles. The Corporate STIP is similar to the Executive Officer STIP, described in Short-Term Incentive on page [__], except that (i) the “Team Performance” metrics are by department and for the Finance department were based on our revenue growth and SG&A rates, and (ii) it included a third “Individual Performance” factor to compute the Incentive Multiplier. The formula below shows how Mr. Muehlbauer’s short-term incentive payment was determined for fiscal 2008:

Base Salary x Incentive Target Percentage x Incentive Multiplier1= Incentive Payout

1Incentive Multiplier = Company Performance score x Team Performance score x Individual Performance score

The “Company Performance” score was based on our company’s fiscal 2008 EVA compared with a target approved by the Compensation Committee. The EVA target and the basis for its establishment were the same as for the Executive Officer STIP described in Short-Term Incentive on page [__]. For Mr. Muehlbauer, the potential EVA ranges and corresponding Company Performance score values for fiscal 2008 were as follows:

EVA
($ in millions)

Percentage of Target

Company Performance
Score

$551 or greater

118% or greater

1.4

472 – 550

101% - 118%

1.1 – 1.3

432 - 471

93% - 101%

1.0

326 – 431

70% - 93%

0.5 – 0.9

Less than 326

Less than 70%

0.0

For fiscal 2008, our actual EVA performance was [$438] million, which resulted in a Company Performance score of [1.0].

The “Team Performance” score for the Finance department was determined based on the average of two metrics, our company’s revenue growth and SG&A rates, measured in accordance with GAAP. Our fiscal 2008 performance against both metrics was compared with targets approved by the Compensation Committee. The Team Performance targets were derived from the overall EVA objective described above. For fiscal 2008, the potential revenue growth rate and SG&A rate ranges, and corresponding Team Performance scores for Mr. Muehlbauer, were as follows:

Revenue Growth Rate

SG&A Rate

Team Performance
Score

10.1% or greater

17.9% or lower

1.2

9.6% - 10.0%

18.0% - 18.1%

1.1

9.1% - 9.5%

18.2% - 18.3%

1.0

8.0% - 9.0%

18.4% – 18.8%

0.4 – 0.9

Less than 8.0%

18.9% or greater

0.4

For fiscal 2008, our revenue growth rate was 11.4% and our SG&A rate was 18.5%. Based on these results, the Team Performance score for Mr. Muehlbauer was computed as follows:

Performance Metric

Result

Score

Revenue Growth Rate

11.4%

[1.2]

SG&A Rate

18.5%

[0.9]

Team Performance Score1

[1.05]

1The Team Performance score was computed as the average of the scores for both metrics.

The “Individual Performance” score was determined based on our annual performance appraisal which included an assessment of Mr. Muehlbauer’s achievement of individual goals and his demonstration of Best Buy’s values. Depending on his performance, the corresponding score could range from 0.0 to 1.2. For fiscal 2008, Mr. Muehlbauer received an Individual Performance score of [__].

To determine the Incentive Multiplier, the Company Performance, Team Performance and Individual Performance scores are multiplied. Based on

25



the actual Company Performance and Team Performance scores, and Mr. Muehlbauer’s Individual Performance score, his Incentive Multiplier for fiscal 2008 was [__].

The fiscal 2008, short-term incentive payment to Mr. Muehlbauer, as determined based on the formulas described above, was as follows:

 

 

Base
Salary

X

Incentive
Target
Percentage

=

Incentive
Target

X

Incentive
Multiplier

=

Incentive
Payout

Mr. Muehlbauer

 

$

 349,763

1

55%/100%2

 

$

 257,950

 

[__]

 

$

 [______]

1Does not include a $15,000 monthly cash bonus Mr. Muehlbauer received for each month he serves as our interim chief financial officer.

2The Incentive Target Percentage for Mr. Muehlbauer was increased from 55% to 100% in connection with his appointment as our interim chief financial officer in September 2007. For fiscal 2008, the short-term incentive payment for Mr. Muehlbauer was computed proportionately based on the number of months he served in each position.

Long-Term Incentive. For fiscal 2008, Mr. Muehlbauer participated in our LTIP.  Pursuant to the “LTIP Choice” feature, Mr. Muehlbauer was able to select from among four long-term incentive mix choices, which included combinations of stock options, restricted stock, and performance-based awards that are settled in stock or cash. Our LTIP Choice feature is described in greater detail in Long-Term Incentive beginning on page [__]. Mr. Muehlbauer selected Choice #1, 100% Stock Options. At the time the award was approved, Mr. Muehlbauer had not yet been appointed as interim chief financial officer. As such, the number of Stock Options subject to the award was determined in the same manner as LTIP awards granted to our other senior vice presidents. The initial award values for senior vice presidents were determined based on a review of retail and general industry market data for comparable positions and were subject to adjustment based on the results of our talent assessment process. Additional information regarding the LTIP award granted to Mr. Muehlbauer in fiscal 2008 is included in Grants of Plan-Based Awards on page [__].

Special Long-Term Incentive. In fiscal 2008, we granted Mr. Muehlbauer a special long-term incentive award in the form of additional Stock Options. We granted the award to compensate Mr. Muehlbauer for the increased responsibility he assumed as interim chief financial officer and to strengthen the alignment of his interests with our long-term success. The amount of the award was determined based on retail and general industry market data for comparable positions.  Additional information regarding the special long-term incentive award granted to Mr. Muehlbauer in fiscal 2008 is included in Grants of Plan-Based Awards on page [__].

Kevin T. Layden

Effective as of January 4, 2008, Mr. Layden was appointed as our Chief Operating Officer - International. Prior to that, he served as President and Chief Operating Officer – Best Buy Canada.

Base Salary. Mr. Layden’s base salary at the beginning of fiscal 2008 was $773,647 and was determined during the first quarter of fiscal 2007. During the second quarter of fiscal 2008, the Compensation Committee approved a 3.5% increase in Mr. Layden’s base salary to $800,724. The increase was determined based on consideration of comparative market data for similar executive positions in Canada, the compensation levels for our other executive officers of similar rank, and the strong performance of our Canada business. However, the increase in Mr. Layden’s base salary was limited because his compensation was in the upper range of similarly ranked executive officers within the company.

Short-Term Incentive.  For fiscal 2008, Mr. Layden received a performance-based, short-term incentive award pursuant to our International Short-Term Incentive Program (“International STIP”). He received an award under the International STIP because he was serving as President and Chief Operating Officer - Best Buy Canada during the first fiscal quarter of the year when short-term incentives were awarded. Key leaders in our international segment participated in the International STIP to promote the alignment of their interests in executing our international strategy. The International STIP award, payable in cash, was expressed as 75% of Mr. Layden’s base salary, or Mr. Layden’s “Incentive Target Percentage.” The Incentive Target Percentage was determined based on Mr. Layden’s level of responsibility compared with other executive positions in the Canada market and relative to other Best Buy executive officer roles. The International STIP is similar to the Executive Officer STIP, described in Short-Term Incentive on page [__], except that (i) the “Company Performance” metric was replaced by an “International Performance” metric based on the operating profit generated by our international segment, (ii) the “Team Performance” metric was replaced by a “Canada Team Performance” metric based on operating profit and revenue for our Canada business, and (iii) it included a third “Individual Performance” factor to compute the Incentive Multiplier. The formula below shows how Mr. Layden’s short-term incentive payment was determined for fiscal 2008:

Base Salary x Incentive Target Percentage x Incentive Multiplier1= Incentive Payout

1Incentive Multiplier = International Performance score x Canada Team Performance score x Individual Performance score

The “International Performance” score was determined based on the fiscal 2008 operating profit generated by our international segment compared with a target set by management and measured in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”). For fiscal 2008, the international operating profit target was $123 million. For Mr. Layden to earn any portion of his short-term incentive award, our international segment had to achieve a minimum of $85 million of operating profit, or 70% of the target amount. To earn an above-target International Performance score, our international segment had to achieve at least $124 million of operating profit, or 101% of the target amount. The potential operating profit ranges and corresponding International Performance score values for fiscal 2008 were as follows:

International
Operating Profit
($ in millions)

Percentage of Target

International
Performance
Score

$145 or greater

118% or greater

1.4

26



124 – 145

101% – 118%

1.1 – 1.3

114 – 123

93% – 101%

1.0

85 – 113

70% – 93%

0.5 – 0.9

Less than 85

Less than 70%

0.0

For fiscal 2008, the operating profit for our international segment was $162 million, which resulted in an International Performance score of [1.4].

The “Canada Team Performance” score was determined based on equally weighted operating profit and revenue metrics for our Canada business. The fiscal 2008 performance of our Canada business for each of these metrics, measured in accordance with GAAP, was compared with targets set by management. The potential Canada operating profit ranges, and corresponding score values for fiscal 2008 were as follows:

Canada
Operating Profit
($ in millions)

CanadaTeam
Performance

Score (50% weight)

$192 or greater

1.2

183 – 191

1.1

174 – 182

1.0

131 – 173

0.5 – 0.9

Less than 131

0.4

The potential Canada revenue ranges and corresponding score values for fiscal 2008 were as follows:

Canada
Revenue
($ in millions)

CanadaTeam
Performance

Score (50% weight)

$5,529 or greater

1.2

5,401 – 5,528

1.1

5,266 – 5,400

1.0

5,265 or less

0.8 – 0.9

For fiscal 2008, our Canada business had operating profit of $208 million and revenue of $5,386 million. Based on these results, the Canada Team Performance score was computed as follows:

Performance Metric

Result

Score

Canada Operating Profit

$208

[1.2]

Canada Revenue

$5,386

[1.0]

Canada Team Performance Score1

[1.1]

1The Canada Team Performance score was computed as the average of the scores for both metrics.

The “Individual Performance” score was determined based on our annual performance appraisal which included an assessment of Mr. Layden’s achievement of individual goals and his demonstration of our company values. Depending on individual performance, the corresponding score could range from 0.0 to 1.2. For fiscal 2008, Mr. Layden received an Individual Performance score of [__].

To determine the Incentive Multiplier, the International Performance, Canada Team Performance and Individual Performance scores are multiplied. Based on the actual International Performance and Canada Team Performance scores, and Mr. Layden’s Individual Performance score, his Incentive Multiplier for fiscal 2008 was [__].

The fiscal 2008, short-term incentive payment to Mr. Layden, as determined based on the formulas described above, was as follows:

 

 

Base
Salary

X

Incentive
Target
Percentage

=

Incentive
Target

X

Incentive
Multiplier

=

Incentive
Payout

Mr. Layden1

 

$

 796,211

2

75 %

 

$

 597,158

 

[__]

 

$

 [______]

1

Cash compensation for Mr. Layden is paid in Canadian dollars. The amounts expressed are denominated in U.S. dollars based on the average exchange rate of 1.0438 Canadian dollars to 1.00 U.S. dollar during fiscal 2008.

2

Weighted average base salary during fiscal 2008.

Long-Term Incentive.  For fiscal 2008, Mr. Layden participated in our Canada long-term incentive program (“Canada LTIP”) because he was a resident of Canada and was serving as President and Chief Operating Officer - Best Buy Canada at the time annual long-term incentive awards were approved. The Canada LTIP does not include an “LTIP Choice” feature and awards are generally made in the form of stock options.  All awards under the Canada LTIP are subject to approval by the Compensation Committee. For fiscal 2008, Mr. Layden received a long-term incentive award comprised of Stock Options. The number of Stock Options subject to the award was comparable to the long-term incentive awards granted to our other similarly ranked executive officers in the United States and was determined based on a review of retail and general industry market data for comparable positions.  Additional information regarding the Canada LTIP award granted to Mr. Layden in fiscal 2008 is included in Grants of Plan-Based Awards on page [__].

27



Special Cash Bonus Award. Mr. Layden received a special cash bonus award during fiscal 2008, which was reviewed and approved by the Compensation Committee. The purpose of the cash bonus award was to recognize Mr. Layden for his contributions to the strong fiscal 2007 financial performance of our Canada business. In fiscal 2007, under Mr. Layden’s leadership, our Canada business doubled its operating income compared with the prior fiscal year, posted a low double-digit comparable store sales gain and increased its market share.  Additional information regarding the special cash bonus awarded to Mr. Layden in fiscal 2008 is included in the Summary Compensation Table on page [__].

Other Compensation Matters

The
A discussion of programs and policies described belowwhich are generally applicable to all ourthe named executive officers, unless otherwise noted.officers.

[]

Compensation Philosophy, Objectives and Process

“Total Rewards” Philosophy.   We believe our success depends on employees at all levels using their unique strengths, experiences and ideas to foster innovation and build strong customer relationships. While our compensation and benefit programs are important tools in attracting and retaining talented employees, we also believe that non-monetary factors such as work environment, learning and development opportunities, and relationships between employees and managers are critical to provide a rewarding employee experience. Collectively, these elements comprise our “Total Rewards” philosophy. We believe this company-wide approach to attracting, motivating and retaining talent is a competitive advantage.

Our Total Rewards philosophy seeks to:

·Provide employees a wide array of rewards;

27



Table of Contents

·Differentiate rewards to individuals, based on their contributions;

·Encourage and recognize experimentation, entrepreneurship and innovation; and

·Reward employee contributions for achieving desired financial and non-financial results.

Our compensation philosophy drives both what we do and do not offer to our employees.

We implement the Total Rewards philosophy by employing broad-based programs that are designed to align employee interests with company goals and create a common vision of success.

Compensation Objectives.  Our compensation program and policies serve the following objectives:

·Reward employees for creating shareholder value and for achieving key strategic objectives;

·Align long-term employee and shareholder interests;

·Motivate employees to achieve short-term financial, operational, customer and employee outcomes that materially contribute to the sustainable, long-term health of Best Buy;

·Attract talent necessary to develop new capabilities and enhance existing competencies; and

·Maintain a flexible compensation structure that allows employees to share in our success.

How We Determine Compensation.  The Compensation Committee is responsible for determining and approving executive compensation. In addition, the Compensation Committee oversees the development, evaluation and approval of incentive compensation, equity-based pay and other employee benefit plans for all employees, including our named executive officers. The Compensation Committee is authorized to delegate to management certain responsibilities regarding our employee compensation and benefit plans, as specified in the Compensation Committee’s charter, which is posted on our Web site at www.BestBuy.com — select the “For Our Investors” link and then the “Corporate Governance” link.

The Compensation Committee established and reviews our Total Rewards philosophy and our compensation objectives, and oversees the design, competitiveness and effectiveness of compensation programs for our executive officers. During the first quarter of each fiscal year, our Human Resources leadership team (“HR”) provides the Compensation Committee with compensation recommendations for the executive officers. HR’s presentation includes an analysis prepared in support of the recommendations. The analysis includes a summary of the results of our application of our “Executive Compensation Framework” to each of our executive officers. Our “Executive Compensation Framework” includes a variety of internal and external factors, and is described in greater detail below. The internal factors are generally applied and analyzed by HR. HR has engaged a third-party compensation consultant, Towers Perrin, a global professional services firm, to assist in the development of compensation data that is used to facilitate the application and analysis of the external factors. The Compensation Committee reviews the recommendations with The Delves Group, an independent compensation consulting firm retained by the Compensation Committee, and discusses them with HR. The Compensation Committee’s review is comprehensive and considers factors such as: (i) the alignment of the proposed compensation with our Total Rewards philosophy; (ii) the alignment of the proposed compensation with our compensation objectives; (iii) the overall value of the compensation package, relative to internal factors and external benchmarks; and (iv) our decision not to offer supplemental compensation, benefits, perquisites and protections commonly extended to executive officers of other large companies. The process for evaluating the named executive officers’ compensation packages based on internal factors, external benchmarks and the lack of supplemental compensation is described in greater detail below.

Executive Compensation Framework.   For fiscal 2009, each element of compensation and the level of total direct compensation for our named executive officers (other than pursuant to our Voluntary Separation Program) was determined by referring to our Executive Compensation Framework to each individual. Our Executive Compensation Framework consists of a set of internal and external factors that allow for a comprehensive, multi-faceted evaluation of

28



Table of Contents

total compensation based on each individual’s personal attributes and talents, and objective external market data. The factors are not required to carry equal weight, but are all considered in determining the compensation recommendation for each individual. We believe that the diversity of the factors included in our Executive Compensation Framework and our flexibility in their application allows us to attribute appropriate value to each individual and enhances our ability to develop compensation packages that (i) further our compensation objectives, (ii) further one or more of our strategic initiatives, (iii) maximize each individual’s perceived value of his or her total compensation and (iv) produce the highest return on our compensation investment.

For fiscal 2009, the internal and external factors that comprised our Executive Compensation Framework were as follows:

 

Factor

Description

Internal

Job Value

The internal value of the position relative to other executive officer positions, based on the primary job responsibilities, expected scope and nature of the job’s impact — relative rank within the organization depends upon the extent to which the executive will be accountable for specific enterprise strategic and operational challenges.

Personal Attributes

The executive’s industry and functional knowledge, intuition and insight, diversity of experience, entrepreneurial disposition and personal networks — in order to be considered for compensation purposes, these factors must be highly related to the success of the business strategies to be led by the executive.

Leadership/Values

The executive’s demonstration of our values, and ability to inspire and influence others.

Talent Development

The executive’s ability to cultivate talent that enhances business results, including succession planning.

Existing Compensation Arrangements

The executive’s outstanding equity awards, performance-based incentives and compensation history.

External

Peer Group Observations

Includes publicly available information regarding actions taken by peer companies to attract and retain senior leadership talent.

Market Data

Includes compensation data for our peer group of companies (as determined by the Compensation Committee), the Fortune 100 companies and other salary surveys.

We assessed the internal factors contained in the Executive Compensation Framework for each of the continuing named executive officers based on a review of executive profiles developed for succession planning purposes. The individual profiles were developed through a comprehensive process, which included discussions with the CEO, the individuals’ peers, third-party executive coaches and each individual personally. The profiles contain analyses and information regarding factors similar to the internal factors contained in the Executive Compensation Framework. The internal factors were applied to Mr. Anderson based on an evaluation of his performance conducted by the Board.

We applied the external factors to each continuing named executive officer based on a review of publicly available compensation data for our peer group of companies and the Fortune 100. We also considered actions taken by companies with which we compete for executive talent. We used available information and monitored actions taken by our peers to evaluate market trends and to assess the overall competitiveness of our executive compensation levels. We did not, however, seek to establish total direct compensation that falls within a prescribed range relative to our peer group of companies or the Fortune 100. In addition, the Compensation Committee may at times use our peer group of companies to evaluate:

29



Table of Contents

·The cost of the total direct compensation paid to our named executive officers;

·The relationship between our financial performance and compensation paid to our named executive officers; and

·The relative difficulty of our incentive performance targets.

The criteria used to determine the peer group of companies in fiscal 2009 was unchanged from the criteria we used in fiscal 2008. We continue to compare ourselves predominantly to companies with the following attributes: (i) more than $5 billion in revenue, (ii) retail or wholesale operations, (iii) high growth rates and (iv) significant revenue generated outside of the United States. We also used lists published by Business Week and Fortune magazines to identify companies recognized as top employers, innovators and customer service providers, and other qualitative factors, for purposes of applying our selection criteria. Our peer group at the time compensation was determined for our named executive officers in fiscal 2009 was comprised of the following companies:

·Amazon.com, Inc.

·Apple Inc.

·Circuit City Stores, Inc.

·Costco Wholesale Corporation

·Dell Inc.

·eBay Inc.

·FedEx Corporation

·Harley-Davidson, Inc.

·Lowe’s Companies, Inc.

·Nordstrom, Inc.

·Staples, Inc.

·Starbucks Corporation

·Target Corporation

·The TJX Companies, Inc.

·Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

·Walgreen Co.

·The Walt Disney Company

·Whole Foods Market, Inc.

·Yahoo! Inc.

30



Table of Contents

In fiscal 2010, we plan to review and modify our peer group to ensure that we are including relevant comparable companies. As our company evolves, the challenge of identifying appropriate peers becomes increasingly difficult. Some of our competitors, most notably Circuit City, have been adversely affected by recent macro-economic conditions and are no longer appropriate peer group members.   Other peers are significantly larger than us and/or have products and business models which are experiencing dramatically different growth patterns than ours.

Certain Benefits and Perquisites.  In addition to our evaluation of total compensation under the Executive Compensation Framework, we also considered that many companies offer the following supplemental compensation, benefits, perquisites and protections to their executive officers:

·Employment agreements

·Severance or change-in-control agreements

·Pension plan benefits

·Supplemental retirement plan benefits

·Executive life insurance benefits

·Automobile allowances

·Country club memberships

During fiscal 2009, we did not provide these types of compensation, benefits and perquisites to our executive officers because they are contrary to our culture and are not consistent with our compensation objectives. Our decision not to provide them generally reduces the amount of total compensation received by our executive officers relative to other large companies, although we seek to compensate our executive officers utilizing our Executive Compensation Framework with elements of compensation that recognize them for their past and expected future contributions and performance. Additional information regarding the benefits and perquisites available to the named executive officers is included in Benefits and Perquisites on page [].

Role of Independent Compensation Consultant in Determining Compensation.  The Compensation Committee reviews HR’s executive compensation recommendations with The Delves Group, an independent compensation consulting firm retained by the Compensation Committee. The Compensation Committee believes that this review helps ensure that HR’s compensation recommendations are in line with our stated objectives and reasonable when compared to the market for executive talent. In addition, the engagement of an independent consultant enhances the overall independence of the Compensation Committee’s decision-making. The Delves Group reports directly to the Compensation Committee and does not provide any consulting or other services to Best Buy.

Role of Management Compensation Consultant in Determining Compensation.  HR has engaged a third-party compensation consultant, Towers Perrin, a global professional services firm, to assist in the development and analysis of external compensation data that is used to facilitate HR’s executive compensation recommendations to the Compensation Committee. At the request of HR and with the consent of the Compensation Committee, a representative of Towers Perrin regularly attends meetings of the Compensation Committee to address matters directly related to the engagement, including questions regarding external market data and related analyses. Towers Perrin reports directly to HR and does not engage with the Compensation Committee, except at the request and under the direction of HR.

Role of Chief Executive Officer in Determining Compensation.  Our CEO does not participate in or otherwise influence HR’s compensation recommendations for himself. However, our CEO generally is present when HR presents compensation recommendations to the Compensation Committee for our other executive officers (except for recommendations regarding his own compensation) and provides his perspective regarding the recommendations. Our CEO’s performance ratings of, and his comments about, his direct reports impact the compensation of this direct reports, but his input is only one of many factors considered in determining total compensation. Our other executive officers do

31



Table of Contents

not participate in the development of compensation recommendations or the approval process, although they may provide perspective on recommendations for their direct reports.

Summary of Compensation and Benefit Programs.  We maintain a variety of compensation and benefit programs in which our executive officers and other selected employees participate. These programs include, but are not limited to, our Omnibus Plan, our Executive Officer Short-Term Incentive Program (“Executive Officer STIP”), our Long-Term Incentive Program (“LTIP”), our Deferred Compensation Plan, our Retirement Savings Plan and our ESPP.

Voluntary Separation Program.  We believe that the most engaged and productive employees are those employees who are in the position they desire. Accordingly, and with the objective of reducing expense from our corporate payroll, we adopted a one-time Voluntary Separation Program in fiscal 2009. A voluntary separation offer was made to most of our corporate employees, including Ms. Ballard and Mr. Morrish. The offer was not extended to Messrs. Anderson, Muehlbauer, Dunn and Willett. Employees who agreed to leave received an enhanced separation package, based on their grade level. Employees meeting certain years of service and age criteria received an additional enhancement to the separation package. Mr. Morrish decided to accept the voluntary separation offer in January 2009. Additional information regarding the specific payout received by Mr. Morrish begins on page [___].

Compensation for Named Executive Officers

Elements of Compensation.  The fiscal 2009 compensation for our named executive officers included the following elements:

Element

Form(s) of Compensation

Purpose

Performance Metric(s)

Base Salary

Cash

Provide competitive, fixed compensation to attract and retain exceptional executive talent

Not performance-based

Short-Term Incentive

Cash

Create a strong financial incentive for achieving or exceeding a combination of company and executive management team goals

EVA®; comparable store sales growth rate; SG&A rate

Long-Term Incentive

Stock options

Create a strong financial incentive for increasing shareholder value and encourage a significant equity stake in our company

Best Buy common stock price

Enterprise Leadership Long-Term Incentive1

Performance shares

Reward superior performance and retain exceptional executive talent

Revenue growth rate; profit growth rate; comparable store sales growth rate

Individual Recognition Restricted Stock Award2

Restricted stock

Recognize superior performance rendered and retain exceptional executive talent

Not performance-based

Voluntary Separation Benefits

Cash, COBRA premiums, life insurance premiums, tax planning services

Reduce corporate payroll expenses

Not performance-based

Health, Retirement and Other Benefits

Eligibility to participate in benefit plans generally available to our employees, including retirement, stock purchase, health, life insurance and disability plans

Plans are part of our broad-based employee benefits program

Not performance-based

32



Table of Contents

Executive Benefits and Perquisites.  Perquisites

Annual executive physical exam, supplemental long-term disability insurance, four weeks of paid vacation, expanded employee discount, stock ownership target planning and tax planning or preparation services

Provide competitive benefits to promote the health, well-being and financial security of our executive officers

Not performance-based

1Enterprise leadership long-term incentive awards were granted to 20 senior officers, including Messrs. Muehlbauer, Dunn, Willett and Morrish and Ms. Ballard during fiscal 2009.

2An individual recognition restricted stock award was granted only to Mr. Muehlbauer during fiscal 2009.

Analysis of Compensation Elements

Base Salary.  The Compensation Committee generally determines base salary levels for the named executive officers and other executive officers early in the fiscal year, with changes becoming effective during the first quarter of each fiscal year. The base salaries for the named executive officers that became effective in the first quarter of fiscal 2009 were established based on an assessment of each officer under our Executive Compensation Framework. For fiscal 2009, the changes in base salaries for the named executive officers and the key factors considered were as follows:

Name

 

Fiscal 2009
Base Salary

 

Fiscal 2008
Base Salary

 

Percent
Change

 

Key Factors

Mr. Anderson

 

$1,265,000

 

$1,172,995

 

7.8%

 

Internal Factors:

· Highest internal value of all senior officer positions

· Built a talented “bench” of officers and provided them with aggressive new challenges to demonstrate readiness for succession

· Continuous effort to reinvent our company by challenging current orthodoxies

· High ethical conduct, exemplary values and visible role model for all other officers

 

External Factors:

· Total direct compensation below median of Fortune 100 and between median and 75th percentile of the peer group range

 

Mr. Muehlbauer

 

600,000

 

349,764

 

71.5%

 

Internal Factors:

· Named Executive Vice President — Finance and Chief Financial Officer after serving as interim Enterprise Chief Financial Officer

· Strong financial acumen and ability to connect company strategies with expected financial outcomes

 

External Factors:

· Total direct compensation below median of peer group and Fortune 100

· Competitiveness of the market for financial executive talent

33



Table of Contents

Mr. Dunn

 

900,000

 

780,000

 

15.4%

 

Internal Factors:

· Second-highest ranking role in our company

· Highly complex position responsible for balancing short- and long-term strategic and operational decisions

· Increased accountability for driving growth

· Strong motivator and leader; established record of building markets while living and teaching company values

 

External Factor:

· Total direct compensation below median of Fortune 100 and peer group

 

Mr. Willett

 

850,000

 

700,000

 

21.4%

 

Internal Factors:

· Third-highest ranking role in our company, however, the role is multi-faceted and was deemed to have a higher strategic value than typical third-ranking executive role

·  Leader of key international operations needed to aggressively grow revenue over the next five years

·  Demonstrated strategic ability to create mutually beneficial relationships with third parties

·  Provides a critical global perspective based on retailing experience outside of the U.S., with understanding of social, political, and regulatory risks and opportunities

 

External Factors:

·  Total direct compensation between median and 75th percentile of Fortune 100 and peer group

·  More valuable role than most “Heads of International,” due to the high strategic importance of the position, the aggressiveness of our international growth strategy relative to our peer group and Mr. Willett’s dual role as chief international executive and chief information officer for our company

 

Ms. Ballard

 

650,000

 

550,000

 

18.2%

 

Internal Factors:

· Leader of our core domestic retail business

· Directly responsible for deepening customer relationships to deliver growth across multiple channels

· Strong motivator and powerful brand representative

· Ultimate collaboration catalyst; brings individuals, functions and organizations together to accomplish things otherwise not possible

 

External Factor:

· Total direct compensation below median of Fortune 100 and between median and 75th percentile of the peer group range

 

34



Table of Contents

Mr. Morrish’s base salary increased by 15.9% during fiscal 2009 to $478,950 from $413,288. The increase was made at the time of Mr. Morrish’s promotion from Senior Vice President—PC and Mobility Solutions to Executive Vice President — Connected Digital Solutions. Mr. Morrish’s compensation was determined through application of our Executive Compensation Framework, with emphasis on positioning his total compensation in line with the total compensation paid to other executive vice presidents with similar scopes of responsibility.

Short-Term Incentive.  For fiscal 2009, the named executive officers were eligible for performance-based, short-term incentive awards pursuant to our Executive Officer STIP. Executive Officer STIP awards, payable in cash, were expressed as a percentage ranging from 125% to 200% of each named executive officer’s base salary, called the “Incentive Target Percentage.” The Incentive Target Percentage for each named executive officer was determined based on application of our Executive Compensation Framework, with particular emphasis placed on the internal job ranking of each position. We emphasized internal job ranking because we believe that it is important that a higher percentage of cash compensation for higher ranking positions be linked to our performance. In addition, we considered the value of total cash compensation in light of the external factors described in Base Salary, above, to ensure that we remain competitive in the market for executive talent. Based on actual performance compared with specific goals, the named executive officers could earn zero to two times their Incentive Target Percentage. We call this factor the “Incentive Multiplier.” The purpose of the Incentive Multiplier is to modify the incentive payout based on actual performance compared with targets approved by the Compensation Committee. The performance results are translated to company and team performance scores, which are then multiplied to determine the Incentive Multiplier. The formula below shows how the short-term incentive payments were determined for fiscal 2009:

Base Salary × Incentive Target Percentage × Incentive Multiplier1 = Incentive Payout


1Incentive Multiplier = Company Performance score × Team Performance score

The “Company Performance” score was determined based on our company’s Economic Value Added, or EVA® (“EVA”) performance for fiscal 2009 compared with a target approved by the Compensation Committee. We believe the use of EVA as a primary incentive factor demonstrates our desire to link executive compensation with increasing shareholder value. EVA measures the amount by which our after-tax profits, after certain adjustments, exceed our cost of capital. Certain unplanned events, such as acquisitions and the effect of accounting changes, are excluded for purposes of determining EVA. The EVA target for fiscal 2009 was established based on historical company performance and target-setting practices, as well as investor and market expectations. Based on an analysis of those factors, our fiscal 2009 EVA target was $476 million, equivalent to approximately 6.5% growth in diluted earnings per share. The potential EVA ranges and corresponding Company Performance score values for fiscal 2009 were as follows:

EVA
($ in millions)

Percentage of
Target

Company
Performance

Score

$590 or greater

124% or greater

1.60

519 - 589

108% - 124%

1.10 – 1.40

476 — 518

100% - 108%

1.00

396 — 475

83% - 100%

0.50 – 0.90

Less than 395

Less than 83%

0.00

For fiscal 2009, our actual EVA performance was $323 million, which resulted in a Company Performance score of 0.00.

For Messrs. Anderson, Muehlbauer, Dunn and Willett, the “Team Performance” score was determined based on the average of: i) our enterprise comparable store sales growth rate, and (ii) our enterprise selling, general and administrative expenses (“SG&A”) rate, excluding the acquisition of Best Buy Europe, but including restructuring charges. For Ms. Ballard and Mr. Morrish, the “Team Performance” score was determined based on the average of: (i) our domestic comparable store sales growth rate, and (ii) our enterprise SG&A rate, excluding the acquisition of Best Buy Europe, but including restructuring charges. Our fiscal 2009 performance against each of these metrics was compared with targets approved by the Compensation Committee. The Team Performance targets were derived from the overall EVA objective described above. For fiscal 2009, the enterprise and domestic comparable store sales and enterprise SG&A rate ranges, and corresponding Team Performance scores were as follows:

35



Table of Contents

EnterpriseComparable Store
Sales Growth Rate

Domestic Comparable Store Sales
Growth Rate

Enterprise SG&A Rate

Team Performance
 Score

5.0% or greater

3.9% or greater

18.6% or lower

1.25

4.0% - 4.9%

3.2% - 3.8%

18.7% - 18.8%

1.12

3.0% - 3.9%

2.5% - 3.1%

18.9% - 19.0%

1.00

2.0% - 2.9%

1.7% - 2.4%

19.1% - 19.2%

0.90

1.0% - 1.9%

0.9% - 1.6%

19.3% - 19.4%

0.80

Less than 1.0%

Less than 0.9%

More than 19.4%

0.70

For fiscal 2009, our enterprise comparable store sales rate was (1.3%), our domestic comparable store sales rate was (1.3%) and our adjusted enterprise SG&A rate was 19.4%.

Based on these results, the Team Performance score for Messrs. Anderson, Muehlbauer, Dunn and Willett was computed as follows:

Performance Metric

 

Result

 

Score

Enterprise Comparable Store Sales Growth Rate

 

(1.3%)

 

0.70

Adjusted Enterprise SG&A Rate

 

19.4%

 

0.80

Team Performance Score1

 

 

 

0.75


1The Team Performance score was computed as the average of the scores for both metrics.

Based on the results above, the Team Performance score for Ms. Ballard and Mr. Morrish was computed as follows:

Performance Metric

 

Result

 

Score

Domestic Comparable Store Sales Growth Rate

 

(1.3%)

 

0.70

Adjusted Enterprise SG&A Rate

 

19.4%

 

0.80

Team Performance Score1

 

 

 

0.75


1The Team Performance score was computed as the average of the scores for both metrics.

To determine the Incentive Multiplier, the Company Performance and Team Performance scores are multiplied. Based on the actual Company Performance and Team Performance scores, the Incentive Multiplier for fiscal 2009 was 0.00. Accordingly, no payments pursuant to the Executive Officer STIP were made to any named executive officer for fiscal 2009. The fiscal 2009 short-term incentive payment computation, as determined based on the formulas described above, was as follows:

 

 

Base  Salary

X

Incentive
Target
Percentage

=

Incentive
Target

X

Incentive
Multiplier

=

Incentive
Payout

 

Mr. Anderson

 

$

1,265,000

 

200%

 

$

2,530,000

 

0.00

 

$

0.00

 

Mr. Muehlbauer

 

600,000

 

125

 

750,000

 

0.00

 

0.00

 

Mr. Dunn

 

900,000

 

150

 

1,350,000

 

0.00

 

0.00

 

Mr. Willett

 

850,000

 

125

 

1,062,500

 

0.00

 

0.00

 

Ms. Ballard

 

650,000

 

125

 

812,500

 

0.00

 

0.00

 

Mr. Morrish

 

478,950

 

65

 

311,318

 

0.00

 

0.00

 

Long-Term Incentive.   Pursuant to our LTIP, established under the Omnibus Plan, we make annual long-term incentive awards to our named executive officers and other eligible employees (typically, manager level and above). For fiscal 2009, our named executive officers received their LTIP award in the form of stock options.  However, Mr. Anderson requested that he not be granted a long-term incentive award and that his options to purchase shares that would have received be contributed to a discretionary award pool to be distributed to employees who are not otherwise eligible to receive LTIP awards. For fiscal 2008, our named executive officers were able to select from among four long-term incentive mix choices, which included combinations of stock options, restricted stock and performance-based awards that are settled in stock or cash (our “LTIP Choice” feature). For fiscal 2009, we awarded our officers stock options only. We believe that stock options are the best way to align our officers’ interests with our shareholders’ interests and to drive performance intended to increase our stock price. The LTIP award amounts for the named executive officers were

36



Table of Contents

reviewed and approved by the Compensation Committee. The stock options we issue to our named executive officers are non-qualified stock option awards that have a term of 10 years and become exercisable over a four-year period at the rate of 25% per year, beginning one year from the date of grant. The stock option exercise price is equal to the closing price of our common stock on the grant date, as quoted on the NYSE.

Additional information regarding LTIP awards granted to Messrs. Dunn, Muehlbauer, Willett and Morrish and Ms. Ballard in fiscal 2009 is included in Grants of Plan-Based Awards on page [].  Due to Mr. Morrish’s voluntary separation from the company, his LTIP award was forfeited.

Enterprise Leadership Long-Term Incentive.  In fiscal 2009, we granted enterprise leadership long-term incentive awards to 20 of our senior officers, including Messrs. Dunn, Muehlbauer, Willett and Morrish, and Ms. Ballard.  The purpose of the award was to provide additional incentive to achieve specified revenue and profit growth for the company and to retain our key executives needed to deliver those results. This award was in the form of performance shares, with each performance share representing, at the time of vesting, the right to receive one share of common stock. The award is based on the following metrics:

·      Compound annual revenue growth rate

·      Compound annual profit growth rate

·      Compound annual comparable store sales growth rate

There are two separate, but partially overlapping, performance periods covered by the awards. The first period began on June 1, 2008, and ends on February 26, 2011 (end of fiscal 2011). The second period also began on June 1, 2008, but ends on March 3, 2012 (end of fiscal 2012). One-half of the total award opportunity is available with respect to each performance period.

The number of performance shares earned at each vesting date, as set forth below, will be determined based on application of the following formula:

Award Percentage of Target × Comparable Store Sales Factor = Final Award

Award Percentage of Target will be determined based on the following table:

 

 

Revenue Growth Rate

 

Profit Growth Rate

 

<7%

 

7%

 

14%

 

20%

 

24%

 

0%

 

135%

 

165%

 

200%

 

17%

 

0%

 

80%

 

100%

 

120%

 

7%

 

0%

 

0%

 

20%

 

25%

 

<7%

 

0%

 

0%

 

0%

 

0%

 

Comparable Store Sales Factor will be determined based on the following table:

Comparable Store Sales
Growth Rate

 

Factor

 

8% or above

 

1.25

 

6%

 

1.00

 

4.5%

 

0.80

 

3% or below

 

0.60

 

The Award Percentage of Target multiplied by the Comparable Store Sales Factor will result in a final award equal to 0% to 250% of the target award.  In order for any portion of a performance award to be earned, we must achieve a minimum of 7% compound annual revenue growth (coupled with a minimum 17% compound annual profit growth) or 7% compound annual profit growth (coupled with a minimum 14% compound annual revenue growth) during one of the performance periods.

The following table shows the target award in shares for each of our named executive officers, excluding Mr. Anderson, who was not eligible for this award:

37



Table of Contents

 

 

Performance Shares

 

 

 

Target Award
in Shares

 

Maximum Award
in Shares

 

Mr. Muehlbauer

 

100,000

 

250,000

 

Mr. Dunn

 

190,000

 

475,000

 

Mr. Willett

 

190,000

 

475,000

 

Ms. Ballard

 

82,750

 

206,875

 

Mr. Morrish

 

27,000

 

67,500

 

The Compensation Committee approved target and maximum award sizes that would provide significant incremental reward potential beyond the value already available under existing incentive schemes for high levels of performance. Additional information regarding the special long-term incentive awards granted to Messrs. Dunn, Muehlbauer, Willett and Morrish and Ms. Ballard in fiscal 2009 is included in Grants of Plan-Based Awards on page []. Due to Mr. Morrish’s voluntary separation from the company, his enterprise leadership incentive award was forfeited.

Individual Recognition Restricted Stock Award.  From time to time, we grant individual restricted stock awards to recognize superior performance. In fiscal 2009, we granted a special restricted stock award of 20,000 shares to Mr. Muehlbauer to recognize his strong performance as interim Enterprise Chief Financial Officer and to reinforce his importance to us in his new role as Executive Vice President — Finance and Chief Financial Officer. The Compensation Committee considered the impact of the restricted stock award’s value on Mr. Muehlbauer’s total compensation, relative to comparable positions within our peer group of companies and the Fortune 100, and deemed that Mr. Muehlbauer’s total compensation was reasonable. The restricted shares awarded to Mr. Muehlbauer vested 25% on the grant date, and will vest an additional 25% on each of the next three anniversaries of the grant date, provided he has been continually employed with us through those dates. Additional information regarding the special restricted stock award granted to Mr. Muehlbauer in fiscal 2009 is included in Grants of Plan-Based Awards on page [].

Voluntary Separation Benefits.  Mr. Morrish was one of the approximately 500 employees who accepted the separation offer we made pursuant to our Voluntary Separation Program. Mr. Morrish’s age (51) and years of service (10) qualified him for an additional 25% of base salary as part of his separation offer.  By accepting the separation offer, Mr. Morrish received a one-time lump sum payment equal to 45 monthsof salary, or $1,796,063, paid in cash. Mr. Morrish may also opt to receive 18 months of COBRA continuation, 18 months of life insurance premiums and $5,000 for tax planning services relating to his termination.

Anticipated Fiscal 2010 Named Executive Officer Compensation Structure Changes

For fiscal 2010, HR recommended and the Compensation Committee approved, certain changes to short- and long-term incentive awards that will impact our named executive officers as well as certain other employees eligible for short- and long-term incentive awards.

Short-Term Incentive. We are changing the short-term incentive plan structure to create an incentive plan that directly supports our fiscal 2010 business priorities: (i) taking market share, (ii), efficient and effective enterprise, (iii) connected digital solutions and (iv) international growth. We also want to ensure that our senior officers and other eligible employees have opportunities to be rewarded should performance improve during the fiscal year.  As a result, we have opted to change the structure by which we measure our short-term incentive awards for our senior officers to be based on the following metrics:

·Enterprise operating income

·Enterprise SG&A rate

·Domestic market share

In addition, under the short-term incentive plan design for fiscal 2010, we will measure each metric independently, with achievement of one or all metrics to be additive to the individual’s total short-term incentive award and earned regardless of the results of other metrics. We have made this change to reward individuals for SG&A reductions and/or market share gains rather than have the awards earned be dependent on the achievement of all of the metrics, which could potentially result in a zero payout if one metric is not achieved.

38



Table of Contents

Long-Term Incentive.  We are changing the timing of our long-term incentive plan to grant long-term incentive awards in June, September and January of fiscal 2010. Thereafter, in fiscal 2011, we plan to grant long-term incentives on a quarterly basis at the time of Board meetings. The decision to grant long-term incentive awards at multiple times each year addresses employee concerns regarding stock price volatility over the past few years. In addition, multiple grants during the year are expected to reinforce the value of long-term incentive award opportunities to participants on a more frequent basis.

Other Compensation Matters

The programs and policies described below are generally applicable to all our named executive officers, unless otherwise noted.

39



Table of Contents

Benefits and Perquisites.Our named executive officers are generally offered the same employee benefits and perquisites offered to all U.S.-based employees, as summarized in the table below:

 

Benefit or Perquisite

Benefit or Perquisite

 

All
Full-Time
U.S.-Based
Employees

 

Named
Executive
Officers

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deferred Compensation Plan

 

ü

 1

ü

 1

Employee Discount

 

ü

 

ü

 

— Expanded Employee Discount 2

 

 

 

ü

2

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

 

ü

 

ü

 

Health Insurance

 

ü

 

ü

 

— Executive Physical Exam

 

 

 

ü

 

Life Insurance

 

ü

 

ü

 

Long-Term Disability

 

ü

 

ü

 

— Executive Long-Term Disability

 

 

 

ü

 

Paid Time Off

 

ü

 

ü

 

Retirement Savings Plan

 

ü

 

ü

 

Short-Term Disability

 

ü

 

ü

 

Stock Ownership Target Planning

 

 

 

ü

 

Tax Planning and Preparation

 

 

 

ü

 

1

All
Full-Time
U.S.-Based
Employees

Named
Executive
Officers

Automobile Allowance

ü

1

Deferred Compensation Plan

ü

2

ü

Employee Discount

ü

ü

— Expanded Employee Discount3

ü

4

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

ü

ü

Health Insurance

ü

ü

— Executive Physical Exam

ü

Life Insurance

ü

ü

Long-Term Disability

ü

ü

— Executive Long-Term Disability

ü

4

Paid Time Off

ü

ü

Retirement Savings Plan

ü

ü

4

Short-Term Disability

ü

ü

Stock Ownership Target Planning

ü

4

Tax Planning and Preparation

ü

4

1Only Mr. Layden received an automobile allowance in fiscal 2008. Mr. Layden will no longer receive an automobile allowance beginning in fiscal 2009.

2Only highly compensated employees and directors are eligible to participate in the Deferred Compensation Plan.

 

3

2

Our named executive officers are eligible to receive the same employee discount at U.S. Best Buy stores as all U.S.-based employees. However, they are also eligible to receive a discountdiscounts at stores operated by certain of our subsidiaries that isare not generally available to all employees.

We provide the executive benefits and perquisites denoted above to compete for executive talent and to promote the health, well-being and financial security of our named executive officers. A description of executive benefits and perquisites, and the costs associated with providing them for the named executive officers, are reflected in the “All Other Compensation” column of the Summary Compensation Table on page [].

Retirement Savings Plan.  Our Retirement Savings Plan is intended to meet the requirements of Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the “Code”). All of our named executive officers are eligible to participate in the plan. The plan provides a safe harbor that allows U.S.-based employees to contribute pre-tax income and immediately vest in company matching contributions. The plan is expected to provide an improved opportunity for such employees to achieve retirement income security. However, the plan is not expected to provide sufficient income replacement relative to our named executive officers’ anticipated retirement needs. The potential retirement income gap for our U.S.-based named executive officers may be filled by other reward elements, including long-term incentives, or by the deferral of a portion of base salary or short-term incentive awards under our Deferred Compensation Plan. Under the Retirement Savings Plan, we match employee contributions, including those made by our U.S.-based named executive officers, at rates approved by the Compensation Committee. For fiscal 2009, we matched 100% of the first 3% and 50% of the next 2% of eligible pre-tax earnings (up to IRS limits) contributed by plan participants.

Although we currently intend to continue the Retirement Savings Plan, as well as to make matching contributions, the Compensation Committee may terminate the plan or discontinue the matching contributions at its sole discretion. If the Retirement Savings Plan were to be terminated, all company-matching funds would immediately vest. JPMorgan Chase has served as the trustee for the Retirement Savings Plan since April 1, 2004. We do not sponsor any other retirement plans in which our named executive officers participate.

Deferred Compensation Plan.  We sponsor an unfunded, unsecured Deferred Compensation Plan. We believe the plan provides a tax-deferred retirement savings vehicle that plays an important role in attracting and retaining executive talent. Additional information about our Deferred Compensation Plan is included in Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan on page [].

40



Table of Contents

 

4Mr. Layden is not eligible to receive the benefit or perquisite.

We provide the executive benefits and perquisites denoted above to compete for executive talent and to promote the health, well-being and financial security of our named executive officers. A description of executive benefits and perquisites, and the costs associated with providing them for the named executive officers, are reflected in the “All Other Compensation” column of the Summary Compensation Table on page [__].

Retirement Savings Plan.  Our Retirement Savings Plan is intended to meet the requirements of Section 401(k) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the “Code”). All of our named executive officers, except Mr. Layden who is a Canada-based employee, are eligible to participate in the plan. The plan provides a safe harbor that allows U.S.-based employees to contribute pre-tax income and immediately vest in company matching contributions. The plan is expected to provide an improved opportunity for such employees, including our U.S.-based named executive officers, to achieve retirement income security. However, the plan is not expected to provide sufficient income replacement relative to our named executive officers’ anticipated retirement needs. The potential retirement income gap for our U.S.-based named executive officers may be filled by other reward elements, including long-term incentives, or by the deferral of a portion of base salary or short-term incentive awards under our Deferred Compensation Plan. Under the Retirement Savings Plan, we match employee contributions, including those made by our U.S.-based named executive officers, at rates approved by the Compensation Committee. For fiscal 2008, we matched 100% of the first 3% and 50% of the next 2% of eligible pre-tax earnings (up to IRS limits) contributed by plan participants.

Although we currently intend to continue the Retirement Savings Plan, as well as to make matching contributions, the Compensation Committee may terminate the plan or discontinue the matching contributions at its sole discretion. If the Retirement Savings Plan were to be terminated, all company-matching funds would immediately vest. JPMorgan Chase has served as the trustee for the Retirement Savings Plan since April 1, 2004. We do not sponsor any other retirement plans in which our named executive officers participate.

Deferred Compensation Plan.   We sponsor an unfunded, unsecured Deferred Compensation Plan. We believe the plan provides a tax-deferred retirement savings vehicle that plays an important role in attracting and retaining executive talent. Additional information about our Deferred Compensation Plan is included in Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plan on page [__].

28



Equity Award Grant Practices

 

All equity-based incentive awards, including awards to our named executive officers and directors, must be approved by the Compensation Committee.

 

Timing of Awards.Annual long-term incentive awards are granted in October of each year. DiscretionaryThis year there was also a special, non-recurring long-term incentive awards areaward granted in April and October of each year.August. Special long-term incentive awards may be granted at any time, as deemed necessary for new hires, promotions, recognition, or retention purposes. In April of each year, the Compensation Committee considers a stock option grant for directors. The Compensation Committee also considers stock option grants for new directors upon their appointment to the Board. We do not coordinate or time the release of material information around our grant dates in order to affect the value of the compensation. Our named executive officers do not play a role in the selection of grant dates.

 

Determination of Grant Date.  The grant date is the date that the Compensation Committee approves the equity award.

 

Determination of Exercise PricePrice..  The exercise price for stock option awards is equal to the last reported sale price of our Common Stock,common stock, as quoted on the NYSE, on the grant date. Under the terms of the Omnibus Plan, we may not grant stock options at a discount to fair market value. Unless otherwise determined by the Compensation Committee, “fair market value” as of a given date is the closing sale price of our Common Stockcommon stock as quoted on the NYSE on such date or, if the shares were not traded on that date, the most recent preceding date when the shares were traded.

 

RepricingRe-pricing of Stock Options.Under the terms of our Omnibus Plan, a stock option may not, without the approval of our shareholders, be: (i) amended to reduce its initial exercise price, except in the case of a stock split or similar event; or (ii) canceled and replaced by a stock option having a lower exercise price.

 

Stock Ownership Guidelines

 

The Compensation Committee has established stock ownership guidelines to promote the alignment of officer and shareholder interests and to encourage behaviors that have a positive influence on stock price appreciation and total shareholder return. The guidelines apply to all officers, including the named executive officers, and are part of an effort to encourage employee stock ownership. Under the guidelines, we expect our officers, including the named executive officers, are expected to acquire ownership of a fixed number of shares, based on their position, within five fiscal years of assuming their current position. The stock ownership expectation generally remains effective for as long as the officer holds the position. The guidelines provide for stock ownership levels for our continuing named executive officers as follows:

 

Name

 

Ownership Target

1

Mr. Anderson

 

140,000 shares

Mr. JacksonMuehlbauer

 

55,000 shares

Mr. Dunn

 

70,000 shares

Mr. Willett

 

55,000 shares

Mr. Muehlbauer

15,000 shares

2

Mr. LaydenMs. Ballard

 

35,00055,000 shares

 


1               Ownership targets will be adjusted for stock splits, stock dividends or similar events.

2Mr. Muehlbauer’s ownership target was not increased in connection with his appointment as interim chief financial officer and is consistent with the ownership target level for company senior vice presidents.

 

The Compensation Committee reviews progress toward achievement of the ownership target at least annually. In addition to shares personally owned by each officer, the following forms of stock ownership count toward the ownership target:

 

·Equivalent shares owned in the Best Buy Stock Fund within our Retirement Savings Plan; and

 

·50% of non-vested performance shares (based on TSR)Total Shareholder Returns) granted under our LTIP.

 

Until the ownership target is met, we expect officers are expected to retain: (i) 25% of the net proceeds received from the exercise of a stock option in the form of Best Buy Common Stock;common stock; and (ii) 100% of shares net of taxes issued in connection with the lapse of restrictions on restricted stock or performance share awards.

 

41



Table of Contents

Tax and Other Considerations

 

Tax Deductibility of Compensation.Section 162(m) of the Code limits the deductibility of compensation in excess of $1 million paid to the Chief Executive OfficerCEO or any of the three other most highly compensated executive officers, unless the compensation qualifies as “performance-based compensation.” Among other things, in order to be deemed performance-based compensation, the compensation must be based on the achievement of pre-established, objective performance criteria and must be pursuant to a plan that has been approved by our shareholders. It is intended that all performance-based compensation paid in fiscal 20082009 to our named executive officers under the plans and programs described above will qualify for deductibility, either because the compensation is below the threshold for non-deductibility provided in Section 162(m), or because the payment of amounts in excess of $1 million qualify as performance-based compensation under the provisions of Section 162(m).

 

We believe that it is important to continue to be able to take available company tax deductions with respect to the compensation paid to our named executive officers. Therefore, we strive to take all actions that may be necessary under Section 162(m) to qualify for available tax deductions related

29



to executive compensation. We do not, however, make compensation decisions based solely on the availability of a deduction under Section 162(m).

 

Accounting Treatment.We account for stock-based awards based on their grant date fair value, as determined under SFAS No. 123(R),Share-Based Payment. Compensation expense for these awards is recognized on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the award (or to an employee’s eligible retirement date, if earlier). If the award is subject to a performance condition, however, the cost will vary based on our estimate of the number of shares that will ultimately vest.

 

Compensation and Human Resources Committee Report on Executive Compensation

 

The Compensation Committee has reviewed and discussed theCompensation Discussion and Analysis, above, with management. Based on this review and discussion, the Compensation Committee recommended to the Board that the Compensation Discussion and Analysis be included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 1, 2008,February 28, 2009, and in this Proxy Statement.

 

COMPENSATION AND HUMAN RESOURCES COMMITTEE

 

Frank D. Trestman, Chairman

Kathy J. Higgins Victor

Ronald James

Hatim A. Tyabji

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

Frank D. Trestman, Chairman of the Compensation Committee.  The Avalon Group is a real estate development partnership in which Mr. Trestman and his son-in-law each own one-third interests. Mr. Trestman is the chairman of The Avalon Group, with the other partners responsible for operations. In fiscal 2007, we entered into a 10-year lease with Avalon-Timbercrest IV, LLC (“Avalon-Timbercrest”) for a retail store located in a development in which The Avalon Group has an interest. Mr. Trestman and his son-in-law each own a 20% interest in the property we lease. Our real estate department has determined that the rental payments under the lease are competitive for the real estate market in the relevant geographic area. The payments required for the first five years of the term are $700,200 per year, with an increase in years six through 10 to $745,200 per year. In fiscal 2009, we paid aggregate rents to Avalon-Timbercrest of $775,800. The Board determined that the lease is in our best interest and has terms that are competitive with terms available from unaffiliated third parties.

42



Table of Contents

 

Compensation of Executive Officers

 

Summary Compensation Table

 

The table below summarizes the total compensation earned by each of our named executive officers during fiscal 2008:2009:

 

 

 

Fiscal

 

Base

 

 

 

Stock

 

Option

 

Non-Equity
Incentive Plan

 

Change in
Pension Value
and Non-
Qualified
Deferred
Compensation

 

All Other

 

 

 

Name and Title

  

Year

  

Salary

1

Bonus

2

Awards

3  

Awards

4

Compensation

5

Earnings

6

Compensation

7

Total

 

Bradbury H. Anderson

 

2008

 

$

1,172,995

 

$

 

$

413,635

 

$

 

$

[1,994,092]

 

$

 

$

16,151

 

$

[3,596,873]

 

Vice Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer

 

2007

 

1,172,995

 

 

1,289,219

 

453,605

 

2,650,969

 

 

30,116

 

5,596,904

 

James L. Muehlbauer

 

2008

 

345,013

 

75,000

8

111,169

 

449,362

 

[______]

 

 

10,099

 

[_______]

 

Enterprise Chief
Financial Officer
(Interim)

 

2007

 

320,251

 

 

109,037

 

431,348

 

176,491

 

 

12,481

 

1,049,608

 

Darren R. Jackson

 

2008

 

546,452

 

 

(868,745)

10

854,862

 

 

 

12,364

 

544,933

 

former Executive
Vice President —
Finance and Chief
Financial Officer
9

 

2007

 

597,643

 

 

1,130,530

 

1,038,195

 

847,500

 

 

9,093

 

3,622,961

 

Brian J. Dunn

 

2008

 

774,231

 

 

405,841

 

1,692,097

 

[994,500]

 

 

11,980

 

[3,878,649]

 

President and Chief
Operating Officer

 

2007

 

746,309

 

 

1,293,525

 

1,213,084

 

1,271,250

 

 

19,506

 

4,543,674

 

Robert A. Willett

 

2008

 

685,577

 

 

1,481,914

11

1,749,882

11

[743,750]

 

 

20,794

 

[4,681,917]

 

Chief Executive
Officer — Best Buy
International and
Chief Information
Officer

 

2007

 

622,962

 

 

3,580,226

11

3,492,471

11

882,813

 

 

14,358

 

8,592,830

 

Kevin T. Layden

 

2008

 

792,393

 

862,234

13

 

1,024,078

 

[______]

 

 

22,993

 

[_______]

 

Chief Operating
Officer —

 

2007

 

772,910

 

 

 

996,239

 

1,113,094

 

 

27,837

 

2,910,080

 

International 12

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change in

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pension Value

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

and Non-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Qualified

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Non-Equity

 

Deferred

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fiscal

 

Base

 

 

 

Stock

 

Option

 

Incentive Plan

 

Compensation

 

All Other

 

 

 

Name and Title

 

Year

 

Salary

1

Bonus

2

Awards

3

Awards

4

Compensation

5

Earnings

6

Compensation

7

Total

 

Bradbury H.

 

2009

 

$

1,247,311

 

$

 

$

635,268

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

$

15,869

 

$

1,898,448

 

Anderson

 

2008

 

1,172,995

 

 

413,635

 

 

1,994,092

 

 

16,151

 

3,596,873

 

Vice Chairman

 

2007

 

1,172,995

 

 

1,289,219

 

453,605

 

2,650,969

 

 

30,116

 

5,596,904

 

and Chief

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Executive Officer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

James L.

 

2009

 

551,878

 

 

501,507

 

493,487

 

 

 

16,541

 

1,563,413

 

Muehlbauer

 

2008

 

345,013

 

75,000

8

111,169

 

449,362

 

296,596

 

 

10,099

 

1,287,239

 

Executive Vice 

 

2007

 

320,251

 

 

109,037

 

431,348

 

176,491

 

 

12,481

 

1,049,608

 

President — Finance and Chief  Financial Officer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Brian J. Dunn

 

2009

 

876,926

 

 

571,745

 

1,910,536

 

 

 

15,140

 

3,374,347

 

President and

 

2008

 

774,231

 

 

405,841

 

1,692,097

 

988,125

 

 

11,980

 

3,872,274

 

Chief Operating

 

2007

 

746,309

 

 

1,293,525

 

1,213,084

 

1,271,250

 

 

19,506

 

4,543,674

 

Officer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Robert A. Willett

 

2009

 

821,157

 

 

1,412,092

9

1,191,190

9

 

 

44,047

 

3,468,486

 

Chief Executive 

 

2008

 

685,577

 

 

1,481,914

9

1,749,882

9

730,469

 

 

29,893

 

4,677,735

 

Officer —  Best Buy International  and Chief  Information  Officer

 

2007

 

622,962

 

 

3,580,226

9

3,492,471  

9

882,813

 

 

14,358

 

8,592,830

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shari L. Ballard

 

2009

 

630,770

 

 

585,741

 

870,011

 

 

 

12,329

 

2,098,851

 

Executive Vice

 

2008

 

540,385

 

 

450,992

 

786,870

 

509,583

 

 

9,340

 

2,297,170

 

President—Retail Channel Management

 

2007

 

498,268

 

 

1,125,053

 

545,418

 

565,000

 

 

12,689

 

2,746,428

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

David J. Morrish10

 

2009

 

470,301

 

 

170,863

 

236,862

 

 

 

1,827,122

 

2,705,148

 

Executive Vice

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

President—

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Connected

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Digital Solutions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


1                                            These amounts are before any deferrals under the Deferred Compensation Plan. Additional information about deferred amounts can be found in the Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation table on page [__][].

 

2                                            The Group 1 OfficersOur named executive officers were not entitled to receive any paymentpayments that would be categorized as a “Bonus” payment for fiscal 2008.2009.

 

3                                            These amounts reflect the expense recognized for financial statement reporting purposes for fiscal 2008,2009, in accordance with SFAS No. 123(R), for stock-based incentive awards granted under our long-term incentive programs. The amounts reported have been adjusted to eliminate service-based forfeiture assumptions used for financial reporting purposes. The other assumptions used in calculating these amounts are set forth in Note 5,7, Shareholders’ Equity, to the consolidated financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 1, 2008.February 28, 2009. We recognize compensation expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the award (or to an employee’s eligible retirement date, if earlier) and, for performance-based awards, we adjust the expense based on an assessment of the likelihood that the performance targets will be achieved.

30



 

4                                            These amounts reflect the expense recognized for financial statement reporting purposes for fiscal 2008,2009, in accordance with SFAS No. 123(R), for stock options granted under our long-term incentive programs. The assumptions used in calculating these amounts are set forth in Note 5,7, Shareholders’ Equity, to the consolidated financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 1, 2008.February 28, 2009.

 

5                                            These amounts reflect short-term incentive payments made under our Executive Officer STIP, Corporate STIP and International STIP, as applicable.STIP. The respective short-term incentive programs are described in Short-Term Incentive for Messrs. Anderson, Jackson,Muehlbauer, Dunn and Willett and Ms. Ballard beginning on page [__][]; for Mr. MuehlbauerMorrish beginning on page [__]; and for Mr. Layden on page [__][].

43



Table of Contents

 

6                                           We do not provide guaranteed, above-market or preferential earnings on compensation deferred under our Deferred Compensation Plan. The investment options available for notional investment of deferred compensation are similar to those available under our Retirement Savings Plan and are described in Non-Qualified Deferred Compensationon page [__][].

 

7                                            For fiscal 2008,2009, these amounts include all other compensation as described in the following table:

 

 

Retirement Plan

 

Life and Long-Term
Disability Insurance

 

Tax Services

 

Executive

 

 

 

 

 

 

Contribution

a

Premiums

b

Reimbursement

c

Physical

d

Other

 

Total

 

Name

 

Retirement Plan
Contribution

a

Life and Long-Term
Disability Insurance
Premiums

b

Tax Services
Reimbursement

c

Executive
Physical

d

Other

 

Total

 

Bradbury H. Anderson

 

$     7,875

 

$    5,262

 

$     2,014

 

$     —

 

$   1,000

e

$   16,151

 

 

$

8,568

 

$

5,824

 

$

1,456

 

$

 

$

21

e

$

15,869

 

James L. Muehlbauer

 

8,757

 

1,342

 

 

 

 

10,099

 

 

11,135

 

1,788

 

 

3,618

 

 

16,541

 

Darren R. Jackson

 

8,077

 

1,212

 

 

3,075

 

 

12,364

 

Brian J. Dunn

 

8,037

 

2,070

 

1,873

 

 

 

11,980

 

 

8,796

 

2,229

 

1,520

 

2,573

 

22

e

15,140

 

Robert A. Willett

 

7,096

 

5,968

 

 

 

7,730

f

20,794

 

 

7,738

 

8,043

 

7,725

 

5,367

 

15,174

f

44,047

 

Kevin T. Layden

 

 

 

 

 

22,993

g

22,993

 

Shari L. Ballard

 

8,828

 

1,659

 

 

 

1,842

g

12,329

 

David J. Morrish

 

9,262

 

2,268

 

2,000

 

 

1,813,592

h

1,827,122

 

 


aThese amounts reflect our matching contributions to the named executive officer’s Retirement Savings Plan account.

bThese amounts reflect the portions of premiums paid by us for: (i) life insurance coverage exceeding $50,000, and (ii) supplemental executive long-term disability insurance.

cThese amounts reflect reimbursement for tax planning and preparation expenses.

dThe amount in this column reflects payment for a physical exam.

eThe amount reflects an automobile allowance which was terminated effective May 1, 2007.tax gross-up payments.

fThe amount reflects tax gross-up payments and immigration-related payments.

gThe amount reflects an automobile allowance which was terminated effective March 1, 2008.imputed income from health benefits.

 

8

The amount reflects monthly cash bonus payments made in connection with Mr. Muehlbauer’s service as our interim chief financial officer.

9

Mr. Jackson terminated his employment with us on December 7, 2007. Fiscal 2008 amounts reflect compensation earned by Mr. Jackson through his date of termination.

10

The amount of expense recognized for financial statement reporting purposes for fiscal 2008 reflects the reversal of expense previously recognized with respect to stock awards that were forfeited by Mr. Jackson when he terminated employment with us in accordance with SFAS No. 123(R).

11

The amount of expense recognized for financial statement reporting purposes for fiscal 2008 and 2007 was accelerated with respect to certain awards depending on their retirement provisions to reflect Mr. Willett’s retirement eligibility in accordance with SFAS No. 123(R).

12

Cash compensation for Mr. Layden is paid in Canadian dollars. Amounts expressed are denominated in U.S. dollars based on the average exchange rate of 1.0438 Canadian dollars to 1.00 U.S. dollar during fiscal 2008.

13

The amount reflects a discretionary cash bonus paid to Mr. Layden in recognition of the strong fiscal 2007 performance of our Canada business, as more fully described in Special Cash Bonus Award on page [__]

hThe amount reflects tax gross-up payments, and the payments received related to Mr. Morrish’s voluntary separation. In addition to the amount reflected here, Mr. Morrish also has the option to accept 18 months of COBRA and life insurance coverage. For more information about the payments received because of Mr. Morrish’s voluntary separation, see Voluntary Separation Benefits on page [].

8The amount reflects monthly cash bonus payments made in connection with Mr. Muehlbauer’s service as our interim chief financial officer.

9The amount of expense recognized for financial statement reporting purposes for fiscal 2009, 2008 and 2007 was accelerated with respect to certain awards depending on their retirement provisions to reflect Mr. Willett’s retirement eligibility in accordance with SFAS No. 123(R).

10Mr. Morrish voluntarily terminated his employment with Best Buy on February 28, 2009, as part of the Voluntary Separation Offer as described in detail on page [].  Mr. Morrish is included as a named executive officer due to the lump sum separation package he received upon departure.

44



 

Grants of Plan-Based Awards

 

The table below summarizes grants under our long-term incentive programs to each of our named executive officers during fiscal 2008:2009:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Estimated Future Payouts
Under Non-Equity
Incentive Plan Awards

 

Estimated Future Payouts
Under Equity
Incentive Plan Awards

 

All Other
Stock
Awards:
Number
of Shares
of Stock

 

All Other
Option
Awards:
Number of
Securities
Underlying

 

Exercise
or Base
Price of
Option

 

 

 

Grant

 

Grant Date

 

Threshold

 

Target

 

Maximum

 

Threshold

 

Target

 

Maximum

 

or Units

 

Options

2

Awards

2

 

 

Date

 

Fair Value

1

($)

 

($)

 

($)

 

(#)

 

(#)

 

(#)

 

(#)

 

(#)

 

($/Sh)

 

Bradbury H. Anderson 3

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

James L. Muehlbauer

 

10/18/2007

 

650,194

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

40,970

 

47.84

 

Darren R. Jackson 4

 

4/26/2007

5

2,999,983

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

62,292

 

 

 

 

 

10/18/2007

 

876,818

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

55,250

 

47.84

 

 

 

10/18/2007

6

881,069

 

 

 

 

13,812

 

18,417

 

23,021

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Estimated Future Payouts Under
Non-Equity Incentive
Plan Awards

 

Estimated Future Payouts Under
Equity Incentive Plan Awards

 

All Other
Stock
Awards:
Number
of Shares
of Stock

 

All Other
Option
Awards:
Number of
Securities
Underlying

 

Exercise
or Base
Price of
Option

 

Name

 

Grant
Date

 

Grant Date
Fair Value

1

Threshold
($)

 

Target
($)

 

Maximum
($)

 

Threshold
(#)

 

Target
(#)

 

Maximum
(#)

 

or Units
(#)

 

Options
(#)

2

Awards
($/Share)

2

Bradbury H. Anderson3

 

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

James L. Muehlbauer

 

4/18/2008

4

876,600

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

20,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8/5/2008

5

4,119,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

75,000

 

100,000

 

250,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/31/2008

 

862,400

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

80,000

 

26.88

 

Brian J. Dunn

 

8/5/2008

5

7,826,100

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

142,500

 

190,000

 

475,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/31/2008

 

1,487,640

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

138,000

 

26.88

 

Robert A. Willett

 

8/5/2008

5

7,826,100

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

142,500

 

190,000

 

475,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/31/2008

 

1,191,190

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

110,500

 

26.88

 

Shari L. Ballard

 

8/5/2008

5

3,408,473

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

62,063

 

82,750

 

206,875

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/31/2008

 

714,175

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

66,250

 

26.88

 

David J. Morrish6

 

8/5/2008

5

1,112,130

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

20,250

 

27,000

 

67,500

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/31/2008

 

431,200

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

40,000

 

26.88

 

 

31



Brian J. Dunn

 

10/18/2007

 

2,190,060

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

138,000

 

47.84

 

Robert A.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Willett

 

4/26/2007

5

4,999,971

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

103,820

 

 

 

 

 

10/18/2007

 

876,818

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

55,250

 

47.84

 

 

 

10/18/2007

7

961,158

 

 

 

 

184

 

18,417

 

27,625

 

 

 

 

Kevin T.Layden

 

10/18/2007

 

634,800

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

40,000

 

47.84

 

1                                            These amounts reflect the aggregate value of the award on the grant date determined in accordance with SFAS No. 123(R).

 

2                                            Non-qualified stock options that have a term of 10 years and become exercisable over a four-year period at the rate of 25% per year, beginning one year from the grant date. The option exercise price is equal to the closing price of our Common Stockcommon stock on the grant date, as quoted on the NYSE. The Stock Optionstock option awards are described in greater detail in Long-Term Incentive beginning on page [__][].

 

3                                            At his request, Mr. Anderson did not receive any LTIP awards during fiscal 2008.2009.

 

4                                            All plan-based awards granted to Mr. Jackson during fiscal 2008 were irrevocably forfeited when he terminated employment with us on December 7, 2007.

5Time-based restricted stock award scheduled towhich vested 25% on the grant date, and will vest 100%an additional 25% on April 26, 2010,each of the next three anniversaries of the grant date, provided that the executive has been continually employed with us through that date.those dates.

 

65                                            Performance-based restricted stock award that will be earned depending on the level of achievement of performance goals established for the following metrics: (i) comparable store sales; (ii) profit growth; and (iii) revenue growth. The earned portion, if any, of the first 50% of the award, if any, is scheduled to vest in a range from 0% to 100% onby February 26, 2011, (endwith the remaining 50% of fiscal 2011) depending on our fiscal 2009 EVA performance compared with our fiscal 2009 EVA target, as determinedthe award, if any, scheduled to vest by the Compensation Committee.March 3, 2012. The award and related performance targets are described in greater detail in Enterprise Leadership Long-Term Incentive beginning on page [__][].

 

76                                            Performance-based restricted stock award, scheduledAll plan-based awards granted to vest in a range from 0% to 100%Mr. Morrish during fiscal 2009 were irrevocably forfeited when he terminated employment with us on February 26, 2011 (end of fiscal 2011), depending on the level of TSR achieved by our Common Stock compared to the TSR of companies that comprise the S&P 500 during a three-year incentive period. The award and related performance targets are described in greater detail in Long-Term Incentive on page [__].28, 2009.

 

45



Table of Contents

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End

 

The following table provides a summary of equity awards outstanding for each of the named executive officers as of the end of fiscal 2008:2009:

 

 

Option Awards

 

Stock Awards

 

 

Option Awards

 

Stock Awards

 

 

Option
Grant

 

Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options
Exercisable

 

Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options
Unexercisable

 

Option
Exercise

 

Option
Expiration

 

Stock
Award
Grant

 

Number of
Shares or
Units of
Stock That
Have Not
Vested

 

Market
Value of
Shares or
Units of
Stock That
Have Not

 

Equity Incentive
Plan Awards:
Number of
Unearned
Shares, Units
or Other Right
That Have
Not Vested

 

Equity Incentive
Plan Awards:
Market or Payout
Value of
Unearned Shares,
Units or Other
Rights That Have
Not Vested

 

 

Option

1

Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options
Exercisable

 

Number of
Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options
Unexercisable

 

Option
Exercise

 

Option
Expiration

 

Stock
Award

 

Number
of
Shares or
Units of
Stock
That
Have Not
Vested

 

Market
Value of
Shares or
Units of
Stock That
Have Not

 

Equity 
Incentive
Plan Awards:
Number of
Unearned
Shares, Units
or Other
Right
That Have
Not Vested

 

Equity
Incentive
Plan Awards:
Market or
Payout
Value of
Unearned
Shares,
Units or
Other
Rights That
Have
Not Vested

 

 

Date

1 2

(#)

 

(#)

 

Price

 

Date

 

Date

1

(#)

 

Vested

 

(#)

 

($)

3

Name

 

Grant Date

2

(#)

 

(#)

 

Price

 

Date

 

Grant Date

1

(#)

 

Vested

 

(#)

 

($)

 

Bradbury H.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5/18/2006

4

 

 

 

 

94,966

 

$

4,084,488

 

 

4/14/2003

 

11,250

 

 

 

$

20.65

 

4/13/2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Anderson

 

4/14/2003

 

11,250

 

 

 

$

20.65

 

4/13/2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1/16/2003

 

112,500

 

 

 

19.11

 

1/15/2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1/16/2003

 

112,500

 

 

 

19.11

 

1/15/2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/11/2002

 

348,750

 

 

 

34.18

 

4/10/2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/27/2001

 

348,750

 

 

 

24.71

 

4/26/2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/11/2002

 

348,750

 

 

 

34.18

 

4/10/2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/14/2000

 

371,250

 

 

 

31.17

 

4/13/2010

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/27/2001

 

348,750

 

 

 

24.71

 

4/26/2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/16/1999

 

146,250

 

 

 

23.19

 

4/15/2009

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/14/2000

 

371,250

 

 

 

31.17

 

4/13/2010

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/24/1998

 

195,000

 

 

 

7.64

 

4/23/2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/16/1999

 

146,250

 

 

 

23.19

 

4/15/2009

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

James L.

 

10/18/2007

 

 

 

40,970

 

$

47.84

 

10/17/2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/31/2008

 

 

 

80,000

 

$

26.88

 

10/31/2018

 

8/5/2008

4

 

 

 

 

100,000

 

$

2,882,000

 

Muehlbauer

 

10/23/2006

 

2,595

 

7,785

 

55.46

 

10/22/2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/18/2008

5

15,000

 

$

432,300

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/23/2006

5

 

 

 

 

5,190

 

223,222

 

 

10/18/2007

 

10,242

 

30,728

 

47.84

 

10/17/2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6/20/2006

6

1,250

 

$

53,763

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/23/2006

 

5,190

 

5,190

 

55.46

 

10/22/2016

 

10/23/2006

6

 

 

 

 

5,190

 

149,576

 

 

11/8/2005

 

15,026

 

15,027

 

46.80

 

11/7/2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6/20/2006

7

625

 

18,013

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/11/2004

 

21,375

 

7,125

 

36.73

 

10/10/2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11/8/2005

 

22,539

 

7,514

 

46.80

 

11/7/2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11/3/2003

 

25,500

 

 

 

39.59

 

11/2/2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/11/2004

 

28,500

 

 

 

36.73

 

10/10/2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1/16/2003

 

7,500

 

 

 

19.11

 

1/15/2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11/3/2003

 

25,500

 

 

 

39.59

 

11/2/2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/11/2002

 

16,875

 

 

 

34.18

 

4/10/2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1/16/2003

 

7,500

 

 

 

19.11

 

1/15/2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3/4/2002

 

4,220

 

 

 

31.04

 

3/3/2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/11/2002

 

16,875

 

 

 

34.18

 

4/10/2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Brian J.

 

10/18/2007

 

 

 

138,000

 

$

47.84

 

10/17/2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dunn

 

10/23/2006

 

34,500

 

103,500

 

55.46

 

10/22/2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3/4/2002

 

4,220

 

 

 

31.04

 

3/3/2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Brian J. Dunn

 

10/31/2008

 

 

 

138,000

 

$

26.88

 

10/31/2018

 

8/5/2008

4

 

 

 

 

190,000

 

$

5,475,800

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5/18/2006

4

 

 

 

 

85,470

 

$

3,676,065

 

 

10/18/2007

 

34,500

 

103,500

 

47.84

 

10/17/2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11/8/2005

 

40,000

 

40,000

 

46.80

 

11/7/2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/23/2006

 

69,000

 

69,000

 

55.46

 

10/22/2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/11/2004

 

35,437

 

11,813

 

36.73

 

10/10/2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11/8/2005

 

60,000

 

20,000

 

46.80

 

11/7/2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11/3/2003

 

51,750

 

 

 

39.59

 

11/2/2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/11/2004

 

47,250

 

 

 

36.73

 

10/10/2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1/16/2003

 

30,000

 

 

 

19.11

 

1/15/2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11/3/2003

 

51,750

 

 

 

39.59

 

11/2/2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/11/2002

 

65,588

 

 

 

34.18

 

4/10/2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1/16/2003

 

30,000

 

 

 

19.11

 

1/15/2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/27/2001

 

48,938

 

 

 

24.71

 

4/26/2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/11/2002

 

65,588

 

 

 

34.18

 

4/10/2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12/15/2000

 

4,923

 

 

 

11.11

 

12/14/2010

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/27/2001

 

48,938

 

 

 

24.71

 

4/26/2011

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/14/2000

 

16,875

 

 

 

31.17

 

4/13/2010

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12/15/2000

 

4,923

 

 

 

11.11

 

12/14/2010

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/16/1999

 

16,875

 

 

 

23.19

 

4/15/2009

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/14/2000

 

16,875

 

 

 

31.17

 

4/13/2010

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/16/1999

 

16,875

 

 

 

23.19

 

4/15/2009

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Robert A.

 

10/31/2008

 

110,500

 

 

 

$

26.88

 

10/31/2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Willett

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8/5/2008

4

 

 

 

 

190,000

 

$

5,475,800

 

 

10/18/2007

 

55,250

 

 

 

47.84

 

10/17/2017

 

10/18/2007

8

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/26/2007

9

103,820

 

$

2,992,092

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/23/2006

 

110,500

 

 

 

55.46

 

10/22/2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11/8/2005

 

30,005

 

 

 

46.80

 

11/7/2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/11/2004

 

45,000

 

 

 

36.73

 

10/10/2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/23/2004

 

150,000

 

 

 

37.00

 

4/22/2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/12/2002

 

11,250

 

 

 

34.44

 

4/11/2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shari L.

 

10/31/2008

 

 

 

66,250

 

$

26.88

 

10/31/2018

 

8/5/2008

4

 

 

 

 

82,750

 

$

2,384,855

 

Ballard

 

10/18/2007

 

16,550

 

49,650

 

47.84

 

10/17/2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/23/2006

 

33,100

 

33,100

 

55.46

 

10/22/2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11/8/2005

 

22,503

 

7,502

 

46.80

 

11/7/2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/11/2004

 

19,350

 

 

 

36.73

 

10/10/2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11/3/2003

 

32,325

 

 

 

39.59

 

11/2/2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

David J.

 

10/31/2008

 

 

 

40,000

 

$

26.88

 

10/31/2018

 

8/5/2008

4

 

 

 

 

27,000

 

$

778,140

 

Morrish

 

10/18/2007

 

5,242

 

15,728

 

47.84

 

10/17/2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/23/2006

 

10,380

 

10,380

 

55.46

 

10/22/2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7/5/2006

10

5,000

 

$

144,100

 

 

 

 

 

 

11/8/2005

 

11,270

 

3,757

 

46.80

 

11/7/2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/11/2004

 

15,750

 

 

 

36.73

 

10/10/2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11/3/2003

 

9,375

 

 

 

39.59

 

11/2/2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3246



Table of Contents

Robert A.

 

10/18/2007

 

 

 

55,250

 

$

47.84

 

10/17/2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Willett

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/18/2007

7

 

 

 

 

18,417

 

$

792,115

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/26/2007

8

103,820

 

$

4,465,298

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/23/2006

 

27,625

 

82,875

 

55.46

 

10/22/2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5/18/2006

4

 

 

 

 

75,973

 

3,267,599

 

 

 

11/8/2005

 

15,002

 

15,003

 

46.80

 

11/7/2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11/8/2005

9

 

 

 

 

15,003

 

645,279

 

 

 

10/11/2004

 

33,750

 

11,250

 

36.73

 

10/10/2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/23/2004

 

112,500

 

37,500

 

37.00

 

4/22/2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4/12/2002

 

11,250

 

 

 

34.44

 

4/11/2012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kevin T.

 

10/18/2007

 

 

 

40,000

 

$

47.84

 

10/17/2017

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Layden

��

10/23/2006

 

10,196

 

30,589

 

55.46

 

10/22/2016

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11/8/2005

 

30,004

 

30,005

 

46.80

 

11/7/2015

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

10/11/2004

 

51,750

 

17,250

 

36.73

 

10/10/2014

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12/4/2003

 

22,500

 

 

 

36.10

 

12/3/2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

11/3/2003

 

37,500

 

 

 

39.59

 

11/2/2013

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1/16/2003

 

7,500

 

 

 

19.11

 

1/15/2003

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


1                                            For a better understanding of the equity awards included in this table, we have provided the grant date of each award.

 

2                                            All stock option awards reported become exercisable over a four-year period at the rate of 25% per year, beginning one year from the grant date indicated, except for the following grants which became exercisable immediately: (i) the grant to Mr. Willett on April 12, 2002  —  11,250 shares; and (ii) the grants to Mr. Anderson for his service as a director on April 14, 2003 — 11,250 shares; April 11, 2002 — 11,250 shares; April 27, 2001 — 11,250 shares; April 14, 2000 — 11,250 shares; and April 16, 1999 — 11,250 shares; and April 24, 1998 — 45,000 shares.

 

3                                            These values were determined based on the closing price of Best Buy Common Stockcommon stock on February 29, 2008,27, 2009, the last trading day in fiscal 2008.2009. The closing price as reported by the NYSE on February 29, 2008,27, 2009, was $43.01.$28.82.

 

4                                            Performance-based restricted stock award that will be earned depending on the level of achievement of performance goals established for the following four metrics, each of which carries equal weight:metrics: (i) EVAcomparable store sales; (ii) profit growth; (ii)and (iii) revenue growth; (iii) Best Buy Common Stock price; and (iv) talent management.growth. The earned portion of the first 50% of the award, if any, is scheduled to vest onby February 28, 2009, but must be held26, 2011, with the remaining 50% of the award, if any, scheduled to vest by the executive for a period of two years.March 3, 2012.

 

5Time-based restricted stock award which vested 25% on the grant date, and will vest an additional 25% on each of the next three anniversaries of the grant date, provided the executive has been continually employed with us through those dates.

6                                            Performance-based restricted stock award, scheduled to vest in a range from 0% to 100% on February 27, 2010 (end of fiscal 2010), depending on the level of TSRtotal shareholder return (“TSR” is the compound annual growth rate that shareholders receive on their investment, including both paid dividends and stock price appreciation) achieved by our Common Stockcommon stock compared to the TSR of companies that comprise the S&P 500 during a three-year incentive period.

 

67                                            Time-based restricted stock award that vested 25% on the grant date and 25% on the first anniversary of the grant date, and is scheduled to vest 25% on each of the next two anniversaries of the grant date. The remaining 1,25025% (625 unvested shares areshares) is scheduled to vest in equal amounts of 625 shares on June 20, 2008, and June 20, 2009, respectively.2009.

 

78                                            Performance-based restricted stock award, scheduled to vest in a range from 0% to 100% on February 26, 2011 (end of fiscal 2011), depending on the level of TSR achieved by our Common Stockcommon stock compared to the TSR of companies that comprise the S&P 500 during a three-year incentive period.

 

89                                            Time-based restricted stock award, scheduled to vest 100% on April 26, 2010, provided that the executive has been continually employed with us through that date.

 

910                                        Performance-basedTime-based restricted stock award which vested 25% on the grant date and vested another 25% on the next two anniversaries of the grant date. The remaining 25% (5,000 shares) are scheduled to vest in a range from 0% to 100% on November 8, 2008, depending onJuly 4, 2009, provided the level of TSR achieved by our Common Stock compared to the TSR of companies that comprise the S&P 500 during a three-year incentive period.executive has been continually employed with us through this date.

 

47



Table of Contents

Options Exercised and Stock Vested

 

The table below provides a summary of the value realized in connection with stock option awards exercised and stock awards vested for our named executive officers during fiscal 2008:2009:

 

 

Option Awards

 

Stock Awards

 

 

Option Awards

 

Stock Awards

 

 

Number of Shares
Acquired on
Exercise

 

Value
Realized on

 

Number of Shares
Acquired on
Vesting

 

Value
Realized on
Vesting

 

 

(#)

 

Exercise

1

(#)

 

($)

2

Name

 

Number of Shares
Acquired on
Exercise
(#)

 

Value
Realized on
Exercise

1

Number of Shares
Acquired on
Vesting
(#)

 

Value
Realized on
Vesting
($)

2

 

Bradbury H. Anderson

 

1,050,000

3

$

46,078,257

 

 

$

 

 

195,000

3

$

6,633,978

 

29,678

4

$

855,320

 

James L. Muehlbauer

 

 

 

625

4

28,075

 

 

 

 

5,625

5

245,444

 

Darren R. Jackson

 

257,217

5

4,352,752

 

6

 

Brian J. Dunn

 

 

 

6

 

 

 

 

26,709

4

769,753

 

Robert A. Willett

 

 

 

6

 

 

 

 

28,693

6

826,933

 

Kevin T. Layden

 

 

 

 

 

Shari L. Ballard

 

 

 

30,776

7

886,964

 

David J. Morrish

 

 

 

22,480

8

701,724

 

 


1                                            Value based on market value of Best Buy Common Stockcommon stock at the time of exercise, minus the exercise cost.

 

2                                            Value based on the closing market price of Best Buy Common Stockcommon stock on the vesting date.

 

3                                            Mr. Anderson exercised options to purchase 358,500 shares on April 10, 2007, at an exercise price of $1.42 and an average market price of $47.45; 301,500 shares on April 11, 2007, at an exercise price of $1.42 and an average market price of $47.19; 65,000 shares on August 8, 2007,March 19, 2008, at an exercise price of $7.64 and an average market price of $45.25; 130,000$41.08; 65,000 shares on September 18, 2007,March 20, 2008, at an exercise price of $7.64 and aan average market price of $46.84;$40.42; and 65,000 shares on October 8, 2007,March 24, 2008, at an exercise price of $7.64 and aan average market price of $48.95; 65,000 shares on$43.48.

33



November 23, 2007, at an exercise price of $7.64 and a market price of $48.00; and 65,000 shares on December 10, 2007, at an exercise price of $7.64 and a market price of $52.70.

 

4                                            Time-basedPerformance-based restricted shares, granted on May 18, 2006, that were conditioned on the level of achievement of the following four metrics, each of which carried equal weight: (i) EVA growth; (ii) revenue growth; (iii) Best Buy common stock price and (iv) talent management. Based on performance across these metrics, 31% of the target for this award vested on February 28, 2009.

5Time-based restricted shares from two awards: (1) The first award was granted on June 20, 2006, that vested 25% on the grant date, vested 25% on the first anniversary of the grant date, and are scheduled to vestanother 25% on each of the next two anniversaries of the grant date.date, and is scheduled to vest the remaining 25% on June 20, 2009. The number reported reflectsincludes the portion of the award625 shares that vested on June 20, 2007. Mr. Muehlbauer also had performance-based2008; (2) The second award was granted on April 18, 2008, vested 25% on the grant date and is scheduled to vest 25% on each of the next three anniversaries of the grant date. The number reported includes the 5,000 shares that vested on the grant date.

6Performance-based restricted shares from two awards: (1) The first award was granted on October 11, 2004, that were conditionedNovember 8, 2005, and vested at 33% of the target award level on February 28, 2009, based on the achievement of a certain level of TSR achieved by our Common Stockcommon stock compared to the TSR of companies that comprise the S&P 500 during a three-year incentive periodperiod. The number reported includes 4,951 shares from this award; (2) The second award was granted on May 18, 2006, and vested at 31% of the target award level on February 28, 2009, based on the level of achievement across the following four metrics, each of which carried equal weight: (i) EVA growth; (ii) revenue growth; (iii) Best Buy common stock price and (iv) talent management. The number reported includes 23,742 shares from this award.

7Performance-based restricted shares from two awards: (1) The first award was granted on November 8, 2005, and vested at 100% of the target award level on February 28, 2009, based on the level of actual EVA as compared to the target level for fiscal 2007. The number reported includes 10,002 shares from this award; (2) The second award was granted on May 18, 2006, and vested at 31% of the target award level on February 28, 2009, based on the level of achievement across the following four metrics, each of which carried equal weight: (i) EVA growth; (ii) revenue growth; (iii) Best Buy common stock price and (iv) talent management. The number reported includes 20,774 shares from this award.

8The number reported reflects time-based restricted shares granted on July 5, 2006, which vested 25% on the grant date and 25% each of the next two anniversaries. The remaining 25% of the award has been forfeited because Mr. Morrish terminated his employment with the company on February 28, 2009. The number reported includes the 5,000 shares that ended October 11, 2007. Becausevested on July 5, 2008. The number also reflects performance-based restricted shares from two awards: (1) The first award was granted on November 8, 2005, and vested at 33% of the target award level on February 28, 2009, based on the level of TSR achieved by our Common Stock during the incentive period did not reach the threshold level required for any portion of the award to vest, all of the restricted shares were irrevocably forfeited.

5Mr. Jackson exercised options to purchase 30,000 shares on August 17, 2007, at an exercise price of $19.11 and a market price of $43.38; 30,004 shares on December 20, 2007, at an exercise price of $46.80 and a market price of $51.35; 47,250 shares on December 20, 2007, at an exercise price of $39.59 and a market price of $51.34; 65,588 shares on December 20, 2007, at an exercise price of $34.18 and a market price of $51.16; 48,938 shares on December 20, 2007, at an exercise price of $24.71 and a market price of $51.19; and 35,437 shares on December 20, 2007, at an exercise price of $36.73 and a market price of $51.50.

6Performance-based restricted shares, granted on October 11, 2004, that were conditioned on the achievement of a certain level of TSR by our Common Stockcommon stock compared to the TSR of companies that comprise the S&P 500 during a three-year incentive period ended that October 11, 2007. Becauseperiod. The number reported includes 2,480 shares from this award; (2) The second award was granted on July 5, 2006, and vested at 50% of the target award level on February 28, 2009, based the level of TSR achieved by our Common Stock during the incentive period did not reach the threshold level required for any portionachievement of the award to vest, allfollowing two metrics, each of the restricted shares were irrevocably forfeited.

 

48



Table of Contents

which carried equal weight: (i) gross margin and (ii) talent management. The number reported includes 15,000 shares from this award.

Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation

 

The following table shows the account balances at March 1, 2008,February 28, 2009, and the contributions and earnings during fiscal 2008,2009, for our named executive officers under our Deferred Compensation Plan, an unfunded, unsecured plan. The Deferred Compensation Plan allows highly compensated employees, including the named executive officers, and directors to defer:

 

·                   Up to 75% of base salary; and

·                   Up to 100% of short-term incentive compensation or director fees, as applicable.

 

 

Executive
Contributions

 

Registrant
Contributions

 

Aggregate
Earnings in

 

Aggregate
Withdrawals/

 

Aggregate
Balance at

 

 

in Fiscal 2008

1

in Fiscal 2008

 

Fiscal 2008

 

Contributions

 

March 1, 2008

2

Name

 

Executive
Contributions
in Fiscal 2009

1

Registrant
Contributions
in Fiscal 2009

 

Aggregate
Earnings
(Losses) in
Fiscal 2009

 

Aggregate
Withdrawals/
Contributions

 

Aggregate
Balance at
February 28,
2009

 

Bradbury H. Anderson

 

$

 

$

 

$

132,975

 

$

 

$

3,632,522

 

 

$

 

$

 

$

(971,919

)

$

 

$

2,660,603

 

James L. Muehlbauer

 

65,476

 

 

(39,098

)

 

911,250

 

 

52,707

 

 

(413,158

)

 

550,799

 

Darren R. Jackson

 

409,839

 

 

159,763

 

2,677,079

3

869,664

 

Brian J. Dunn

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Robert A. Willett

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kevin T. Layden

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shari L. Ballard

 

63,077

 

 

(159,953

)

 

412,337

 

David J. Morrish

 

59,492

 

 

(279,205

)

 

400,240

 

 


1                                            These amounts were also reported as either “Base Salary” or “Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation” in the Summary Compensation Table on page [__][].

2These amounts were reported under “Base Salary,” “Bonus” and “Non-Equity Incentive Plan Compensation” in the Summary Compensation Table in prior years’ proxy statements, as follows: Mr. Anderson — $2,689,982; Mr. Jackson — $459,825.

3The amount reflects a lump sum distribution made in connection with Mr. Jackson’s termination of employment on December 7, 2007.

 

Investments.  Amounts deferred under and contributed to the Deferred Compensation Plan are credited or charged with the performance of investment options selected by the participants. The investment options are notional and do not represent actual investments, but rather serve as a measurement of performance. The options available under the Deferred Compensation Plan and their rates of return for the calendar year ended December 31, 2007,2008, were as follows:

 

Investment

 

Rate of Return

1

Nationwide NVIT Money Market

 

4.870.32

%

PIMCO VIT Total Return

 

8.744.37

%

PIMCO VIT High-Yield Bond

 

3.52(12.56

)%

Fidelity VIP II Asset Manager

 

15.36(15.09

)%

Vanguard VIF Diversified Value

 

3.93(20.32

)%

Vanguard VIF Equity Index

 

5.38(21.84

)%

MFS VIT Emerging Growth Series

 

20.87(22.02

)%

Multi-Manager NVIT Small Cap Value

 

(6.8924.93

)%

Vanguard VIF Small Company Growth

 

3.77(25.40

)%

Vanguard VIF International

 

17.41(23.38

)%

 


1                                            Rate of return is net of investment management fees, fund expenses or administrative charges, as applicable.

 

Distributions.  Participants who elect to defer compensation under the Deferred Compensation Plan also select when the deferred amounts will be distributed to them. Distributions may be made in a specific year, or at a time that begins at or after the participant’s retirement. Distributions are paid in a lump sum or in quarterly installments at the participant’s option. However, if a participant’s employment ends prior to retirement, a distribution is made promptly in a lump sum or in quarterly installments, depending on the account balance.

 

34



Employer-Matching Contributions and Vesting.  Prior to 2004, the Deferred Compensation Plan provided for employer-matching contributions. Since January 1, 2004, we do not provide employer-matching contributions for amounts deferred under the plan. Participants are fully vested in their contributions. Employer contributions vest

49



Table of Contents

according to a five-year schedule. If the Deferred Compensation Plan were to be terminated, the participants would immediately become fully vested in all of the employer-matching funds.

 

Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change-in-Control

 

We do not have employment, severance or change-in-control agreements or arrangements with our named executive officers. As such, the only contractual payments that would be received by our named executive officers upon termination of employment or a change-in-control would be in connection with equity-based incentive awards granted under our long-term incentive programs. The amounts reported represent the in-the-money value of stock options and value of stock awards, calculated based on the closing price of our common stock on February 29, 2008,27, 2009, the last trading day in fiscal 2008.2009. The following table summarizes the potential value of long-term incentive awards for each named executive officer under various scenarios:

 

 

 

 

Termination

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Termination

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Involuntary1

 

Voluntary2

 

Following
Change-in-
Control
3

 

Death or
Disability
4

 

Retirement5

 

Name

 

 

 

Involuntary

1

Voluntary

2

Following
Change-in-
Control

3

Death or
Disability

4

Retirement

5

Bradbury H. Anderson

 

Stock options

 

 

$

26,593,313

 

$

26,593,313

 

$

26,593,313

 

$

26,593,313

 

 

Stock options

 

 

$

3,441,038

 

$

3,441,038

 

$

3,441,038

 

$

3,441,038

 

 

Stock awards

 

 

 

4,084,488

 

4,084,488

 

4,084,488

 

 

Stock awards

 

 

 

2,736,920

 

2,736,920

 

2,736,920

 

 

Total

 

 

$

26,593,313

 

$

30,677,801

 

$

30,677,801

 

$

30,677,801

 

 

Total

 

 

$

3,441,038

 

$

6,177,958

 

$

6,177,958

 

$

6,177,958

 

James L. Muehlbauer

 

Stock options

 

 

$

600,215

 

$

644,960

 

$

644,960

 

$

644,960

 

 

Stock options

 

 

$

72,825

 

$

228,025

 

$

228,025

 

$

228,025

 

 

Stock awards

 

 

 

276,984

 

276,984

 

276,984

 

 

Total

 

 

$

600,215

 

$

877,199

 

$

877,199

 

$

877,199

 

Darren R. Jackson6

 

Stock options

 

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

 

Stock awards

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stock awards

 

 

 

7,804,588

 

7,804,588

 

7,354,576

 

 

Total

 

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

 

Total

 

 

$

72,825

 

$

8,032,613

 

$

8,032,613

 

$

7,582,601

 

Brian J. Dunn

 

Stock options

 

 

$

3,282,543

 

$

3,356,729

 

$

3,356,729

 

$

3,356,729

 

 

Stock options

 

 

$

674,628

 

$

942,348

 

$

942,348

 

$

942,348

 

 

Stock awards

 

 

 

3,676,065

 

3,676,065

 

3,676,065

 

 

Stock awards

 

 

 

16,152,745

 

16,152,745

 

16,152,745

 

 

Total

 

 

$

3,282,543

 

$

7,032,794

 

$

7,032,794

 

$

7,032,794

 

 

Total

 

 

$

674,628

 

$

17,095,093

 

$

17,095,093

 

$

17,095,093

 

Robert A. Willett

 

Stock options

 

 

$

984,488

 

$

1,280,513

 

$

1,280,513

 

$

1,280,513

 

 

Stock options

 

 

$

 

$

214,370

 

$

214,370

 

$

214,370

 

 

Stock awards

 

 

 

9,170,291

 

9,170,291

 

4,704,993

 

 

Stock awards

 

 

 

19,834,299

 

19,834,299

 

16,842,206

 

 

Total

 

 

$

984,488

 

$

10,450,804

 

$

10,450,804

 

$

5,985,506

 

 

Total

 

 

$

 

$

20,048,669

 

$

20,048,669

 

$

17,056,576

 

Kevin T. Layden

 

Stock options

 

 

$

787,965

 

$

896,295

 

$

896,295

 

$

896,295

 

Shari L. Ballard

 

Stock options

 

 

$

 

$

128,525

 

$

128,525

 

$

128,525

 

 

Stock awards

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stock awards

 

 

 

8,166,262

 

8,166,262

 

8,166,262

 

 

Total

 

 

$

787,965

 

$

896,295

 

$

896,295

 

$

896,295

 

 

Total

 

 

$

 

$

8,294,787

 

$

8,294,787

 

$

8,294,787

 

David J. Morrish6

 

Stock options

 

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

 

Stock awards

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

 

1

All stock options and unvested stock awards are immediately and irrevocably forfeited upon involuntary termination.

2

Upon voluntary termination: (i) stock options that are vested as of the date of termination may be exercised during a 60-day period beginning on the termination date; and (ii) all unvested stock options and stock awards are immediately and irrevocably forfeited as of the date of termination.

3

Upon involuntary termination or termination for good reason within 12 months following a change-in-control: (i) stock options vest 100% and may generally be exercised until their natural dates of expiration; and (ii) stock awards with performance-based vesting criteria will vest as if 100% of the target shares had been earned.

4

Upon death or disability: (i) stock options vest 100% and may generally be exercised for a period of one year; and (ii) stock awards with performance-based vesting criteria will vest as if 100% of the target shares had been earned.

5

Upon qualified retirement: (i) stock options vest 100% and may generally be exercised for a period of one year; (ii) stock awards with performance-based vesting criteria will vest as if 100% of the target shares had been earned, except that in some cases, stock awards with performance-based vesting criteria will be earned at the end of the performance measurement period, based on the level of performance achieved; and (iii) stock awards with time-based vesting criteria will either vest 100% or will be irrevocably forfeited, depending on the terms and conditions of the respective award agreement.

6

Mr. Jackson voluntarily terminated employment with us on December 7, 2007. The value realized following his termination of employment pursuant to equity-based incentive awards granted under our LTIP is described in Options Exercised and Stock Vested on page [__]


1All stock options and unvested stock awards are immediately and irrevocably forfeited upon involuntary termination.

2Upon voluntary termination: (i) stock options that are vested as of the date of termination may be exercised during a 60-day period beginning on the termination date and (ii) all unvested stock options and stock awards are immediately and irrevocably forfeited as of the date of termination.

3Upon involuntary termination or termination for good reason within 12 months following a change-in-control: (i) stock options vest 100% and may generally be exercised until their natural dates of expiration and (ii) stock awards with performance-based vesting criteria will vest as if 100% of the target shares had been earned.

4Upon death or disability: (i) stock options vest 100% and may generally be exercised for a period of one year and (ii) stock awards with performance-based vesting criteria will vest as if 100% of the target shares had been earned.

5Upon qualified retirement: (i) stock options vest 100% and may generally be exercised for a period of one year; (ii) stock awards with performance-based vesting criteria will vest as if 100% of the target shares had been earned, except that in some cases, stock awards with performance-based vesting criteria will be earned at the end of the performance measurement period, based on the level of performance achieved; and (iii) stock awards with time-based vesting criteria will either vest 100% or will be irrevocably forfeited, depending on the terms and conditions of the respective award agreement.

50



Table of Contents

6Mr. Morrish voluntarily terminated employment with us on February 28, 2009. The value realized prior to his termination of employment pursuant to equity-based incentive awards granted under our LTIP is described in Options Exercised and Stock Vested on page [].

51



CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED-PARTY TRANSACTIONS

 

It is our policy not to participate in material related-party transactions with officers, directors, controlling persons and other insiders unless the transaction provides us with a demonstrable incremental benefit and the terms are competitive with terms available from unaffiliated third parties. Pursuant to our Related-Party Transactions Policy, if a transaction with a related party involving an amount greater than $120,000 is proposed, members of the Audit Committee who have no financial interest in the transaction review the transaction to determine whether the necessary incremental benefit is present and whether the transaction should be recommended to the Board for approval. Members of the Board who have no financial interest in the transaction then review and, if appropriate, approve the transaction. In addition, ongoing related-party transactions are reviewed periodically by the Board to ensure that such transactions continue to provide the necessary incremental benefit to us.

 

We have a policy of not participating in real estate transactions with officers, directors, controlling persons and other insiders unless they are

35



approved by the members of the Board who have no financial interest in the transaction. The Board must determine that any real estate transaction with an insider has terms that are competitive with terms available from unaffiliated third parties.

 

We do not have any credit arrangements between our officers, directors, controlling persons and other insiders.

 

Richard M. Schulze

 

We lease two of our U.S. Best Buy stores from Richard M. Schulze, a founder of Best Buy and our Chairman of the Board. AggregateDuring fiscal 2009, we paid aggregate rents paid for the two stores leased from Mr. Schulze during fiscal 2008 were $1,102,139.of $1.1 million. The leases include escalation clauses, and one provides for percentage rent based on gross sales. TheOne of the leases was scheduled to expire in 2008, andbut we exercised a renewal option in fiscal 2009 to continue to lease the store. The renewal options could extend the lease through 2021. The other lease expires in 2011 and havehas renewal options that could extend the leaseslease through 2021 and 2023 respectively, at our option. We entered into theboth real estate leases with Mr. Schulze prior to 1990, and the Board negotiated and approved the leases (with Mr. Schulze not voting). The Board relied on one or more of its members who had no financial interest in the properties to review market comparisons, look into alternative rental agreements and negotiate with Mr. Schulze. The Board determined that these real estate leases were in our best interest and had terms that are competitive with terms available from unaffiliated third parties. Real estate lease renewals will beare reviewed by the Audit Committee pursuant to our Related-Party Transactions Policy.

 

We also lease, on a non-exclusive basis, airplanes from a corporation owned by the Richard M. Schulze Revocable Trust, of which Mr. Schulze is a trustee. Periodically, the Board reviews the terms of the lease agreement to ensure that they are competitive with terms available from unaffiliated third parties. We pay an hourly rate for use of the airplanes, without any required fractional ownership. Our senior management generally use the airplanes when it is more economical or practical than flying commercial airlines. The total amount paid to Mr. Schulze’s corporation for use of the airplanes during fiscal 20082009 was $741,082.$895,000.

 

We purchase certain store fixtures from Phoenix Fixtures, Inc. (“Phoenix”), a company owned by Mr. Schulze’s brother. TheOur decision to conduct business with Phoenix was based on both qualitative and quantitative factors including product quality, pricing, customer service and design flexibility. TheIn light of Mr. Schulze’s relationship with Phoenix, the Board reviewed our transactions with Phoenix and determined that the transactions were on fair terms to us and that Phoenix provides significant advantages with respect to service and delivery as compared with its competitors. Accordingly, the Board approved the transactions and our continued business dealings with Phoenix. The total amountsamount paid to Phoenix during fiscal 2008 were $20.02009 was $18 million.

 

Susan S. Hoff, Mr. Schulze’s daughter, is our former Senior ViceChairperson, President and Chief Communications Officer. She retired from that position in May 2006 when she was named chairperson, president and chief executive officerExecutive Officer of The Best Buy Children’s Foundation, for which she has served as presidentprincipal executive officer since the inception of the foundation. SinceIn addition, since October 28, 2007, Ms. Hoff has also served as a Best Buy Vice President.  Since October 28, 2007,President of our company. Ms. Hoff’s annualbase salary is $225,000was set in fiscal 2009 at $233,000 and she iswas eligible for a 45% short-term incentive target.award, payable in cash, expressed as 45% of her base salary. During fiscal 2008,2009, Ms. Hoff received $225,000$232,000 in base salary and short-term incentives from Best Buy.total cash compensation. Also during fiscal 2008,2009, Ms. Hoff was awarded options to purchase 12,000 shares of Best Buy Common Stockcommon stock at an exercise price of $47.84$41.19 per share and

52



Table of Contents

options to purchase 12,000 shares of Best Buy common stock at an exercise price of $26.88 per share. The stock options expire in August 2018 and October 20172018, respectively, and vest ratably over four years. Ms. Hoff’s compensation was deemed reasonable by the Compensation Committee based upon the responsibilities encompassed by her role.

 

Ari Bousbib

Ari Bousbib, a former director, is president of Otis Elevator Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of United Technologies Corporation. During fiscal 2008, we had an elevator service and preventative maintenance agreement with Otis. The agreement was established in 2004 in connection with the opening of our new corporate campus, which contains equipment manufactured by Otis, and also covers a small number of our retail locations. The agreement is expected to continue as long as its terms are deemed to be competitive and in our best interest. The total amount paid to Otis during fiscal 2008 was $276,369. The Board approved the transactions and our continued business dealings with Otis.

Elliot S. Kaplan

 

Elliot S. Kaplan, a director since 1971, is a partner with the law firm of Robins, Kaplan, Miller & Ciresi L.L.P. (“RKMC”), which serves as our primary external general counsel. The Board periodically reviews the fees paid to RKMC to ensure that they are competitive with fees charged by other law firms comparable in size and expertise. RKMC received payments of approximately $16We paid $11 million in legal fees related to Best Buy mattersRKMC during fiscal 2008.  Of2009. In light of Mr. Kaplan’s relationship with RKMC, the payments received, approximately $8 million came directly from us and another $8 million was paid by our insurer. The Board approved the transactions with RKMC and our continued business dealings with the firm.

 

Jane K. Kirshbaum, Mr. Kaplan’s daughter, is employed with us as Senior Corporate Counsel. DuringMs. Kirshbaum’s base salary for fiscal 2008,2009 was $154,000, and she was eligible for a short-term incentive award, payable in cash, expressed as 30% of her base salary. Ms. Kirshbaum’s total cash compensation for fiscal 2009 was $154,000.  Also during fiscal 2009, we awarded Ms. Kirshbaum received approximately $198,679 in base salaryoptions to purchase 2,700 shares of Best Buy common stock at an exercise price of $41.19 per share and short-term incentives, andshe was awarded options to purchase 1,2382,970 shares of Best Buy Common Stockcommon stock at an exercise price of $47.84$26.88 per share and 413 restricted shares.share. The stock options expire in August 2018 and October 20172018, respectively, and vest ratably over four years.  The restricted shares, which may be earned based on our achievement of certain performance goals during fiscal 2009, are scheduled to vest at the end of an incentive period ending in February 2011.

 

Michael J. Stillman, Mr. Kaplan’s step-son, is employed by Best Buyus as a director in StrategicVice President - Business Group Innovation. Since November 2007,Development. Mr. Stillman’s annual base salary is $180,000for fiscal 2009 was $195,000 and he iswas eligible for a 30% short-term incentive target.  He is eligibleaward, payable in cash, expressed as 45% of his base salary.  Mr. Stillman’s total cash compensation for long-term incentive awards.fiscal 2009 was $195,000. Also during fiscal 2009, we awarded Mr. Stillman options to purchase 3,700 shares of Best Buy common stock at an exercise price of $41.19 per share and options to purchase 5,180 shares of Best Buy common stock at an exercise price of $26.88 per share. The stock options expire in August 2018 and October 2018, respectively, and vest ratably over four years.

 

Mr. Kaplan’s family members were compensated at levels comparable to the compensation paid to non-family members in similar positions at Best Buy.

 

George L. Mikan III

 

George L. Mikan III, a director since April 2008, is executive vice president and chief financial officer of UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (“UnitedHealth”). We sponsor a self-insured health benefits program for our eligible U.S.-based employees, in the United States which is facilitated by an agreement with UnitedHealth. Under the agreement, UnitedHealth provides us with access to physician networks and other services, including claim processing and call center support. The agreement was established in 2003 and may be renewed annually. During fiscal 2008,2009, we paid approximately $162$175 million to UnitedHealth under the agreement. Of this amount, approximately $13$14 million was for administrative and other services. The remaining $149$161 million was in the form of reimbursements for medical and pharmaceutical claims administered by UnitedHealth. In light of Mr. Mikan joined our Board in April 2008, at which timeMikan’s relationship with UnitedHealth, the Board reviewed and approved our continued business dealings with UnitedHealth.

Matthew H. Paull

Matthew H. Paull, a director, is the former corporate senior executive vice president and chief financial officer of McDonald’s Corporation, having retired from that position in January 2008. During fiscal 2008, we had U.S. sales to McDonald’s of $74,245 and McDonald’s purchased products and services from Best Buy having an aggregate value of approximately $817,993.  The Board approved the transactions andUnitedHealth when Mr. Mikan joined our continued business dealings with McDonald’s.

36



James E. Press

James E. Press, a former director, was the President of Toyota Motor North America.  During fiscal 2008, we had agreements with a variety of Toyota subsidiaries in an aggregate amount of approximately $128,000.  The Board approved the transactions and our continued business dealings with Toyota.

Rogelio Rebolledo

Rogelio Rebolledo, a director, is the former chairman of PBG Mexico, a wholly owned subsidiary of Pepsi Bottling Group, Inc. During fiscal 2008, we purchased various Pepsi products having a value of $115,400.  Pepsi Bottling Group purchased products and gift cards from our Business to Business group in an aggregate amount of $160,768.  Pepsi — QTG Canada also purchased products and gift cards from our Canada group in an aggregate amount of $10,548.  The Board approved the transactions and our continued business dealings with Pepsi Bottling Group and its affiliates.Board.

 

Frank D. Trestman

 

The Avalon Group is a real estate development partnership in which Frank D. Trestman, a director since 1984, and Mr. Trestman’s son-in-law each own one-third interests. Mr. Trestman is the chairman of The Avalon Group, with the other partners responsible for operations. In fiscal 2007, we entered into a 10-year lease with Avalon-Timbercrest IV, LLC for a retail store located in a development in which The Avalon Group has an interest. Mr. Trestman and his son-in-law each own a 20% interest in the property we lease. Our real estate department has determined that the rental payments under the lease are competitive for the real estate market in the relevant geographic area. The payments required for the first five years of the term are $700,200 per year, with an increase in years six through ten to $745,200 per year. In fiscal 2008, Avalon Timbercrest received $368,683. The2009, we paid aggregate rents to Avalon-Timbercrest of $775,800. In light of Mr. Trestman’s relationship with Avalon-Timbercrest, the Board determined that the lease is in our best interest and has terms that are competitive with terms available from unaffiliated third parties.

53



Table of Contents

Hatim A. Tyabji

Hatim A. Tyabji, a director since 1998, has served as chairman of the board of directors of Jasper Wireless, Inc. (“Jasper”) since November 2008. We purchase wireless data connectivity services from Jasper for our private label mobile navigation devices. We paid $2 million to Jasper in fiscal 2009, which represented approximately 10% of its recognized revenue for the year. Mr. Tyabji is not an employee of Jasper, nor did he participate in negotiating or executing our agreement with Jasper. In light of Mr. Tyabji’s relationship with Jasper, the Board reviewed and approved our continued business dealings with Jasper.

 

Brian J. Dunn

 

Brian J. Dunn is our President and Chief Operating Officer. Mr. Dunn serves on the board of directors of Dick’s Sporting Goods.  WeGoods, Inc. (“Dick’s”). Pursuant to an assignment of lease, we lease certain land and buildings to Dick’s for its retail store located in Richfield, Minnesota. We originally entered into the lease agreement with Galyan’s Trading Co. in 2000, prior to Mr. Dunn joining the Dick’s board. The payments required for the term of the lease increase annually according to a prescribed schedule. The initial term of the lease expires in 2019, and the lease includes eight five-year5-year automatic renewals unless otherwise terminated. During fiscal 2008,2009, we received $3,088,256$3.2 million in lease payments. TheBest Buy also made payments to Dick’s in fiscal 2009 totaling $437,000 in connection with sports-related corporate sponsorships. In light of Mr. Dunn’s relationship with Dick’s, the Board determined that the continuing these business relationshiprelationships with Dick’s is in our best interest and that the lease has terms that are competitive with terms available from unaffiliated third parties.

 

Jonathan E. Pershing

 

Jonathan E. Pershing is our Executive Vice President - Human Capital. Travis Cinco iswas employed with us as a Senior Director - Operating Development and shares a household with Mr. Pershing. During fiscal 2008,2009, we paid Mr. Cinco received $185,411 in base salarytotal cash compensation of $149,000 and short-term incentives, and was awarded him options to purchase 4,4853,700 shares of Best Buy Common Stockcommon stock at an exercise price of $47.84$41.19 per share and options to purchase 3,700 shares of Best Buy common stock at an exercise price of $26.88 per share. The stock options were scheduled to expire in August 2018 and October 2017,2018, respectively, and vest ratably over four years. In February 2009, Mr. Cinco opted to terminate his employment pursuant to our Voluntary Separation Program, for which he received a one-time lump sum payment of $193,503, of which $3,700 is an outplacement credit. All unvested share awards granted to Mr. Cinco were irrevocably forfeited when he terminated employment with us. He is also eligible for up to 12 months of COBRA payments.  Mr. Cinco was compensated at levels comparable to the compensation paid to non-family members in similar positions at Best Buy.

 

Michael J. Pratt

 

Michael J. Pratt is the President of- Best Buy Canada. Michelle K. Pratt, Mr., Pratt’s wife, is employed with us in Canada as a Director - Merchandising. During fiscal 2008,2009, we paid Ms. Pratt received approximately $196,230 in base salarytotal cash compensation of $158,000 and short-term incentives,awarded her options to purchase 2,400 shares of Best Buy common stock at an exercise price of $41.19 per share and was awarded options to purchase 3,000 shares of Best Buy Common Stockcommon stock at an exercise price of $47.84$26.88 per share. The stock options expire in August 2018 and October 20172018, respectively, and vest ratably over four years. Ms. Pratt was compensated at levels comparable to the compensation paid to non-family members in similar positions at Best Buy.

 

54



Table of Contents

AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT

 

The information contained in this Audit Committee Report shall not be deemed to be “soliciting material” or “filed” or incorporated by reference in future filings with the SEC, or subject to the liabilities of Section 18 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, except to the extent that we specifically incorporate it by reference into a document filed under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

The Audit Committee is comprised of threefour members and acts under a written charter adopted and approved by the Board. The committee’sAudit Committee’s charter is included in this proxy statement as Appendix C and is posted on our Web site at www.BestBuy.com — select the “For Our Investors” link and then the “Corporate Governance” link. All members of the committeeAudit Committee meet the SEC and NYSE definitions of independence and financial literacy for audit committee members. In addition, the Board has determined that George L. Mikan III, Matthew H. Paull anand Gérard R. Vittecoq, independent directordirectors and a membermembers of the Audit Committee, has been determined by the Board to be anare audit committee financial expertexperts for purposes of the SEC rules. No member of the Audit Committee serves on the audit committee of more than three public companies.

Committee Meetings and Recommendation

 

The committee,Audit Committee, on behalf of the Board, reviewed and discussed with both management and Deloitte & Touche LLP (“D&T”), our independent registered public accounting firm, for the fiscal year ended March 1, 2008, the annual audited consolidated financial statements for the fiscal 2008,year ended February 28, 2009, and the quarterly operating results for each quarter in such fiscal year, along with the related significant accounting and disclosure issues. These reviews included discussions with D&T of matters required to be discussed pursuant to Statement on Auditing Standards No. 61,114, The Auditor’s Communication with Audit CommitteesWith Those Charged With Governance, as amended, and discussions with management about the quality, not just the acceptability, of the accounting principles, the reasonableness of significant judgments and the clarity of the disclosures in the consolidated financial statements.

 

The committee also discussed with D&T its independence from management and Best Buy, and received the written disclosures and the letter from D&T as required by Independence Standards Board Standard No. 1, Independence Discussions with Audit Committees. The committee reviewed all

37



services provided by and the amount of fees paid to D&T in fiscal 2008. In reliance on the reviews and discussions with management and D&T, the committee believes that the services provided by D&T were compatible with, and did not impair, its independence.

The committeeCommittee met nine11 times, including sixeight times via conference call, during fiscal 2008.2009. The committeeAudit Committee schedules its meetings to ensure it has sufficient time to devote appropriate attention to all of its tasks. The committeeAudit Committee meetings include regular executive sessions with D&T, our internal auditors and management. The committeeAudit Committee also discusses with our internal auditors and D&T the overall scope and plans for their respective audits.

 

In reliance on the reviews and discussions referred to above, the committeeAudit Committee recommended to the Board, and the Board approved, that the annual audited consolidated financial statements be included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended March 1, 2008,February 28, 2009, as filed with the SEC.

 

Pre-Approval Policy

Consistent with SEC rules regarding auditor independence, the committeeAudit Committee has responsibility for appointing, setting fees paid to and overseeing the work of our independent registered public accounting firm. In recognition of this responsibility, it is the policy of the committeeAudit Committee to pre-approve all audit and permissible non-audit services provided by our independent registered public accounting firm except for minor audit-related engagements which in the aggregate do not exceed 5% of the fees we pay to our independent registered public accounting firm during a fiscal year.

 

Each year, prior to engaging our independent registered public accounting firm, management submits to the committeeAudit Committee for approval a list of services expected to be provided during that fiscal year within each of the twothree categories of services described below, as well as related estimated fees.

 

1.

1.      Audit

Audit services include audit work performed on the financial statements, as well as work that generally only the independent registered public accounting firm can reasonably be expected to provide, including comfort letters statutory audits and discussions surrounding the proper application of financial accounting and/or reporting standards.

2.      Audit-Related services include assurance and related services that are traditionally performed by the independent registered public accounting firm, including due diligence related to mergers and acquisitions, statutory audits, employee benefit plan audits and special procedures required to meet certain regulatory requirements.

55



Table of Contents

3.Tax services include compliance and other non-advisory services performed by the independent registered public accounting firm when it would be inefficient or ineffective to use another tax service provider.

2.

Audit-Related services include assurance and related services that are traditionally performed by the independent registered public accounting firm, including due diligence related to mergers and acquisitions, employee benefit plan audits and special procedures required to meet certain regulatory requirements.

 

As appropriate, the committeeAudit Committee then pre-approves the services and the related estimated fees. The committeeAudit Committee requires our independent registered public accounting firm and management to report actual fees versus the estimate periodically throughout the year by category of service. During the year, circumstances may arise when it may become necessary to engage our independent registered public accounting firm for additional services not contemplated in the initial annual proposal. In those instances, the committeeAudit Committee pre-approves the additional services and related fees before engaging our independent registered public accounting firm to provide the additional services.

 

Auditor Independence

The Audit Committee discussed with D&T its independence from management and Best Buy, and received the written disclosures and the letter from D&T as required by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board’s Ethics and Independence Rule 3526, Communication with Audit Committees Concerning Independence.  In September 2008, D&T advised us in writing that it believed an advisory partner on D&T’s audit engagement team had entered into trades involving our securities on multiple occasions during the period of D&T’s engagement. SEC rules require that we file annual financial statements that are audited by an independent registered public accounting firm. SEC rules also provide that when a partner serving in a capacity such as that of this advisory partner has an investment in securities of an audit client, the audit firm is not considered independent with respect to that client.

This individual had served as the advisory partner on the audit engagement team from the commencement of D&T’s engagement in fiscal 2006 until September 2008. The advisory partner is no longer an active partner at D&T. The audit partner heading the audit engagement team had responsibility for all substantive issues with respect to the planning, scope and conduct of D&T’s audit of our company, while the former advisory partner was responsible for client relationship management, industry matters and service assessment.

The former advisory partner attended some, but not all, Audit Committee meetings. At these meetings, he reviewed with the committee reports of the annual inspection of D&T conducted by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board as well as D&T’s annual client service assessments. The former advisory partner also met occasionally with members of our management or the audit committee. His role was to advise on industry matters and to maintain the relationship between D&T and us. He did not review substantive audit matters with management or the committee. The former advisory partner attended our annual meetings of shareholders as one of the D&T representatives attending those meetings. Neither the former advisory partner nor any other D&T representatives spoke at any of these shareholder meetings and no questions were asked of D&T.

D&T reported to us the results of its investigation of the involvement of the former advisory partner in actual audit matters, including review of its audit-related files and logs and interviews of other members of the audit engagement team. D&T also reported to us the steps taken in its investigation and its conclusions and provided supporting materials to us. At the direction of the Audit Committee, we also conducted an investigation into the extent of any involvement of the former advisory partner in actual audit matters.  We retained outside counsel to direct and assist in this investigation. Internal counsel conducted interviews with members and certain former members of our senior management and Audit Committee that had contacts with the former advisory partner, including our Chief Financial Officer and our Chief Accounting Officer.  Outside and internal counsel reviewed summaries of the interviews and related documentation, including the minutes of all of our Board of Directors and Board committee meetings in which the former advisory partner participated, our electronic records and communications identified as pertaining to the former advisory partner, and supporting materials provided by D&T.

Following these investigations, D&T and our management advised the Audit Committee that no evidence was discovered that indicated that the former advisory partner had any substantive responsibility for or role in the conduct of the audit. D&T delivered a letter to the audit committee stating that, despite the trades in our securities by their former advisory partner and the resulting violation of the SEC’s independence rules, the former advisory partner had not exercised any influence over the conduct of the audit or its conclusions with respect to the audit or accounting consultations, that the objectivity of the persons responsible for the actual conduct of the audit had not been affected by the former advisory partner’s actions, and that D&T’s independence was not impaired.

56



Table of Contents

Based on the foregoing and the Audit Committee’s understanding of the application of the relevant SEC rules, the Audit Committee accepted D&T’s conclusion and letter regarding its independence and unanimously concluded that, based on all of the facts and circumstances known to the Audit Committee, D&T’s independence was not impaired with respect to any of our financial statements covering periods during which the former advisory partner was a member of D&T’s audit engagement team, including fiscal 2009. D&T and we have reported our respective conclusions regarding this matter to the SEC.

The Audit Committee reviewed all services provided by and the amount of fees paid to D&T in fiscal 2009. In reliance on the reviews and discussions with management and D&T, including the matter described above, the Audit Committee believes that the services provided by D&T were compatible with, and did not impair, its independence.

AUDIT COMMITTEE

 

Hatim A. Tyabji, Chairman
George L. Mikan III

Matthew H. Paull

Mary A. Tolan
Gérard R. Vittecoq

 

57



Table of Contents

ITEM OF BUSINESS NO. 2 — RATIFICATION OF APPOINTMENT OF OUR INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

THIS SECTION SHOULD BE READ IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE “AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT” ON PAGES [__][-].

The Audit Committee appointed Deloitte & Touche LLP (“D&T”) as our independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year that began March 2, 2008.1, 2009. We will ask shareholders to ratify the appointment of D&T as our independent registered public accounting firm at the Meeting. Representatives of D&T are expected to be present at the Meeting. They will have the opportunity to make a statement if they desire to do so and are expected to be available to respond to appropriate questions.

 

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

For the fiscal years ended February 28, 2009 and March 1, 2008, and March 3, 2007, D&T served as our independent registered public accounting firm. The following table presents the aggregate fees incurred for audit and audit-related services rendered by D&T during fiscal 20082009 and 2007,2008, respectively. The fees listed below were pre-approved by our Audit Committee pursuant to itsthe Audit Committee’s pre-approval policy described on pages [____][-]:

 

Service Type

 

Fiscal 2008

 

Fiscal 2007

 

Audit Fees1

 

$

4,495,000

 

$

3,344,000

 

Audit-Related Fees2

 

592,000

 

210,000

 

Tax Fees

 

 

 

All Other Fees

 

 

 

Total

 

$

5,087,000

 

$

3,554,000

 

Service Type

 

Fiscal 2009

 

Fiscal 2008

 

Audit fees1

 

$

4,687,000

 

$

4,495,000

 

Audit-related fees2

 

2,969,000

 

592,000

 

Tax fees

 

157,000

 

 

All other fees

 

 

 

Total3

 

$

7,813,000

 

$

5,087,000

 

 


1

Consists of fees for professional services rendered in connection with the audits of our consolidated financial statements and the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting for the fiscal years ended February 28, 2009, and March 1, 2008 and March 3, 2007;2008; the reviews of the consolidated financial statements included in each of our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q during those fiscal years; consultations on accounting matters; statutory audit filings; and SEC registration statements.

 

 

2

Consists primarily of fees for acquisition-related due diligence and statutory audit filings, as well as the audits of our Retirement Savings Plan and The Best Buy Children’s Foundation. Includes fees of $1,668,000 incurred for statutory audits of Best Buy Europe, which was acquired by us in fiscal 2009.

3

D&T reduced their fees by approximately $79,000 in consideration of external legal fees incurred by us in connection with the Audit Committee’s review of D&T’s independence discussed below.

38



 

It is our policy that our independent registered public accounting firm be engaged to provide only audit and audit-related services. However, pursuant to the policy, in exceptionalcertain circumstances and using stringent standards in its evaluation, the Audit Committee may authorize our independent registered public accounting firm to provide tax services when it would be inefficient or ineffective to use another tax service provider. The Audit Committee’s intention is to not engage our independent registered public accounting firm for tax advisory services.

 

In September 2008, D&T advised us that it believed an advisory partner on D&T’s audit engagement team had entered into trades involving our securities on multiple occasions during the period of D&T’s engagement.  The individual had served as the advisory partner on D&T’s audit engagement team from the commencement of D&T’s engagement in fiscal 2006 until September 2008.  The advisory partner’s association with D&T was terminated in September 2008.  See “Audit Committee Report” on pages [-] for further details including our conclusion that D&T’s independence was not impaired with respect to any of our financial statements covering periods during which the former advisory partner was a member of D&T’s audit engagement team. Both we and D&T have reported our respective conclusions regarding this matter to the SEC.

58



Table of Contents

Board Voting Recommendation

The Board recommends that shareholders voteFOR the proposal to ratify the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as our independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year that began on March 2, 2008.1, 2009.

 

If the appointment of D&T were not to be ratified by the shareholders, the Audit Committee would not be required to appoint another independent registered public accounting firm, but would give consideration to an unfavorable vote.

 

59



Table of Contents

ITEM OF BUSINESS NO. 3 - APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO THE BEST BUY CO., INC. 2008 EMPLOYEE2004 OMNIBUS STOCK PURCHASEAND INCENTIVE PLAN, AS AMENDED

 

Information About the Plan

 

An employee stock purchase plan enhances our ability to obtain and retainWhat is the services of employees. In addition, such a plan provides a convenient, meaningful opportunity for employees to purchase Best Buy stock, thereby increasing participating employees’ personal interest in our success.Omnibus Plan?

The Best Buy Co., Inc. 2008 Employee2004 Omnibus Stock Purchaseand Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) was adopted by the Board of Directors on April 8, 2008, subject20, 2004, and approved by our shareholders on June 24, 2004.  An amendment to shareholder approval.the plan was adopted by the Board of Directors on May 1, 2007, and approved by our shareholders on June 25, 2007 (as amended in 2007, the plan is referred to as the “Omnibus Plan”). The Omnibus Plan is intendedthe means by which we provide long-term incentives to qualify as an “employeea broad range of our employees.

The Omnibus Plan permits the granting of stock purchase plan”options (including both incentive and non-qualified stock options); stock appreciation rights (“SARs”); restricted stock and restricted stock units; performance awards of cash, stock or property; dividend equivalents; and other stock grants.  Eligible recipients under Section 423the Omnibus Plan include any employee, officer, consultant, advisor or director providing services to us or to any of our affiliates, who is selected by the Compensation Committee of the Internal Revenue CodeBoard.

The Omnibus Plan is our only plan that provides for the issuance of 1986,shares of our common stock upon completion of future awards of equity-based compensation. Currently, the aggregate number of shares of our common stock that may be issued under all stock-based awards made under the Omnibus Plan is 38 million (representing the original 16 million authorized in 2004; the 3-for-2 stock split on August 3, 2005, which increased the initial authorized amount to 24 million; and the additional 14 million authorized by shareholders in 2007).  The maximum number of shares of common stock that may be awarded under the Omnibus Plan pursuant to grants of restricted stock, restricted stock units and other stock awards is 9.75 million.  Our non-employee directors, as amended (the “Code”)a group, may not be granted awards in the aggregate of more than 5% percent of the shares of common stock available for awards under the Omnibus Plan. As context to our annual rate of equity-based awards, it is important to note that we completed an accelerated share repurchase in fiscal 2008 to acquire $3.0 billion in shares of common stock, thereby increasing the rate of grant and overhang.

As of February 28, 2009, approximately 4.1 million shares of our common stock remained available under the Omnibus Plan for awards in the aggregate, all of which would be available for grants of restricted stock, restricted stock units and other stock awards; and 1.4 million shares of common stock remained available for awards to non-employee directors.  Since adoption of the Omnibus Plan, we have made equity-based awards at an annual rate of 1.3% to 1.7% of our outstanding common stock excludingthe two large grants in August 2008 (as described below), thereby providing favorable tax treatment for bothand we expect to continue at those normal levels (based on our current assumptions and compensation strategies), assuming shareholder approval of the proposed amendments to the Omnibus Plan.

What is the purpose of the Omnibus Plan?

The purpose of the Omnibus Plan is to promote the interests of Best Buy and participatingour shareholders by aiding us in motivating, attracting and retaining employees, officers, consultants, advisors and directors who we expect will contribute to our growth and financial performance.  The Board believes that the combination of short-term and long-term incentive compensation is essential in attracting, retaining and motivating individuals to enhance the likelihood of our future success.  The 2009 amendments to the Omnibus Plan will allow the types and specific terms of future awards to be based on our then-current objectives for aligning compensation with shareholder value.  Shareholder approval of the amendments to the Omnibus Plan will allow us to continue to award short-term and long-term incentives that achieve these goals.

60



Table of Contents

What is your long-term incentive compensation philosophy?

As a company, we believe the contributions provided by each employee, both individually and as part of a team, are key to our long-term success.  Over our history, we have faced a series of challenges.  The outcomes of these challenges have contributed to our growth and to our view of the role of long-term incentive compensation as a vehicle to help us overcome the challenges and to share in the success of our growth.  In a company such as ours, where the growth trajectory can be uneven, innovation is the key ingredient of our ability to achieve our vision and mission. Historically, innovation has originated from many sources within our company — many of which are not top-level management. Innovative employees are not always the most highly compensated, but they typically feel a personal stake in making Best Buy a success. As we focus increasing attention on individual customer needs and aspirations, our conviction has grown that we excel in meeting the unique needs of our customers whenever we unleash the potential of all of our employees.

We use equity-based long-term incentives as one tool in inspiring our people, encouraging innovation and unleashing the individual talents of our employees. These incentives are in alignment with our Total Rewards Philosophy, which balances our strategy with cost and with what employees value. We believe that equity-based compensation can be highly effective in building an employee’s personal stake in our success.  Therefore, we have designed several programs, such as our Retirement Savings Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan, Chairman’s Discretionary program and our Innovation Award program, to include equity components that continually reinforce the connections among our employees, customers and shareholders.  Using equity-based compensation for a portion of total compensation aligns the dreams and aspirations of our employees and their families with our shareholders’ interests.

In general, we have provided long-term incentives to a broader range of employees than most other large corporations have done.  For example, our store managers receive long-term incentives to create a long-term ownership stake in our success.  Including store managers in our long-term incentive program helps us ensure that they will act as owners and share in our long-term success as owners.  In fact, if you consider grants made during our most recent fiscal year, over 90% of the recipients of long-term incentives were non-officers.

While we reward a broad base of employees, we also believe that equity-based compensation is a key component in well-designed executive compensation.  Part of our long-term compensation philosophy is designed to ensure that those who perform strategic policy-making functions, and have greater responsibilities and accountability for the organization’s financial success, have an ownership interest in the organization.  Furthermore, when recruiting executive talent from external sources, we believe the leverage provided by equity-based compensation is an integral part of aligning the new executives’ interests with the interests of our shareholders.

Why are you requesting additional shares under the Omnibus Plan now?

We believe that our equity-based incentive programs and our emphasis on employee stock ownership have been integral to our success in the past and are crucial to our ability to retain, recruit and motivate participants to achieve our corporate performance goals in the years ahead. Over the past year, economic and competitive conditions have combined to create new challenges and opportunities that will shape our future. In the past nine months, the Compensation and Human Resources Committee, in consultation with management, decided to build the equity leverage of our employees and bind their personal lives and aspirations more tightly to our future opportunities. In August 2008, we launched an ambitious performance-based restricted stock unit incentive for 20 instrumental leaders. The incentive used 2.4 million of the shares of common stock available for grant under our Omnibus Plan. The aggressive performance targets for these incentives were designed to require a near doubling in the size of our company, and significant increases to our profitability, by the end of March 2012, for vesting to occur. We believed these targets were stretch goals, where outsized rewards were very appropriate.

Our leadership team was also acutely aware that the key ideas, energy and effort for our success have come from many avenues. To encourage innovation beyond the top 20 leaders, concurrent with the grant to top management in August 2008, we issued a special non-routine equity-based grant to 3,700 employees to increase their personal stake in our success. This grant utilized another 6.8 million of the available shares of common stock under our Omnibus Plan.

61



Table of Contents

Together, these two grants increased key measures of equity-based compensation beyond our historical norms and those of the retail industry. The grants came at a time before the current economic crisis, when we had already perceived significant and unusual challenges within the consumer electronics retailing sector as well as great opportunities for growth. We believe that these grants were crucial steps to challenge our employees to drive growth for the coming years especially during times of economic uncertainty.

At this point, we are requesting a 16 million share increase in the number of shares of common stock available under the Omnibus Plan. This request is being made one year in advance of our normal rhythm, due to the significant grants made in August 2008.  It is critical that we have the ability to replenish our long-term incentive program to keep our people focused on the opportunities in the next few years. We believe that the ability to motivate talented employees using our equity-based incentive programs is critical to our long-term performance and shareholder returns. The amended Omnibus Plan will allow us the flexibility to implement our current long-term incentive philosophy in future years and will better align the interests of executives, employees and shareholders.

How are you proposing to amend the Omnibus Plan?

On April 7, 2009, the Board adopted amendments for the Omnibus Plan, subject to certain restrictions. Five millionthe approval of our shareholders, to:

·Increase the maximum number of shares of Best Buy Common Stock, par value $0.10 per share, have been reservedour common stock that are authorized for issuance under the Plan.Omnibus Plan (as Incentive Stock Options or otherwise) from 38 million to 54 million, and

·Proportionately increase the maximum number of shares of our common stock that may be awarded under the Omnibus Plan pursuant to grants of restricted stock, restricted stock units and other stock awards from 15.5 million to 20 million.

On the same date, the Board also adopted other amendments to the Omnibus Plan, which are not subject to the approval of our shareholders, to:

·Allow holders of non-qualified stock options to pay their exercise price by having us withhold shares of common stock with a fair market value equal to the aggregate exercise price,

·Clarify the terms for complying with IRS Code Section 409A, which concerns all plans or other arrangements, with few exceptions, that provide for non-qualified deferred compensation and

·Require non-employee director grants be approved by an independent committee of the Board, which aligns the plan document with current practice.

 

EligibilityHas the Board approved the amendments to the Omnibus Plan?

 

ParticipationYes.  The Board of Directors approved the amendments to the Omnibus Plan on April 7, 2009, although the amendments increasing the maximum number of shares of common stock and the annual dollar limit on payment of performance awards aresubject to the approval of our shareholders.  We are now asking you to approve these amendments to the Omnibus Plan.  Upon shareholder approval, these amendments to the Omnibus Plan will become effective.  As amended in 2009, the plan is referred to as the “amended Omnibus Plan.”

What are the key features of the amended Omnibus Plan?

The material terms of the amended Omnibus Plan are summarized below.  The amended Omnibus Plan has been designed to meet the requirements of Section 162(m) of the Code regarding the deductibility of executive compensation and to minimize the risk of premature income taxes and related penalties on participating employees under Section 409A of the Code.

62



Table of Contents

The following summary is voluntary. Anyqualified in its entirety by reference to the full text of the amended Omnibus Plan.  A copy of the amended Omnibus Plan may be obtained from us free of charge upon written request; and is also available on our Web site at www.BestBuy.com — under “Company Information,” after selecting the “For Our Investors” link.

Who is eligible to receive awards under the amended Omnibus Plan?

Eligible recipients under the amended Omnibus Plan include any employee, officer, consultant, advisor or director providing services to us or to any of Best Buy, or of certain Best Buy subsidiaries as designatedour affiliates, who is selected by the Board, who owns less than 5%Compensation Committee of our Common Stock and has completed 60 daysthe Board.  As of continuous employment service isFebruary 28, 2009, approximately 120,000 employees were eligible to participate in the Plan, with the exception of those employees whose customary employment is for not more than five months in a calendar year. Approximately 100,000 employees, including executive officers, are eligible to participate in theamended Omnibus Plan.

 

OperationWhat is the term of the Planamended Omnibus Plan?

 

Once implemented,Unless discontinued or terminated by the Board, the amended Omnibus Plan will permitexpire on June 23, 2014.  No awards may be made after that date.  However, unless otherwise expressly provided in an applicable award agreement, any award granted under the amended Omnibus Plan, and before expiration of the plan, may extend beyond the end of such period through the award’s normal expiration date.

How is the amended Omnibus Plan administered?

The Compensation Committee will administer the amended Omnibus Plan and will have full power and authority to determine when and to whom awards will be granted, and the type, amount, form of payment and other terms and conditions of each award, consistent with the provisions of the amended Omnibus Plan.  In addition, the Compensation Committee can specify whether, and under what circumstances, awards to be received under the amended Omnibus Plan may be deferred automatically or at the election of either the holder of the award or the committee, if any such deferral complies with or is exempt from Code Section 409A.  Subject to the provisions of the amended Omnibus Plan, the committee may amend or waive the terms and conditions, or accelerate the exercisability, of an outstanding award.  The Compensation Committee has authority to interpret the amended Omnibus Plan and to establish rules and regulations for the administration of the plan. In addition, the Board may exercise the powers of the committee at any time, except with respect to the grant of awards to our executive officers.

How many shares will be available for issuance under the amended Omnibus Plan?

The aggregate number of shares of our common stock that may be issued under all equity-based awards made under the amended Omnibus Plan will be 54 million.  Certain awards under the amended Omnibus Plan will be subject to further limitations as follows:

·The maximum number of shares of common stock that may be awarded under the amended Omnibus Plan pursuant to grants of restricted stock, restricted stock units and stock awards will be 20 million.

·The maximum number of shares of common stock that may be awarded under the amended Omnibus Plan pursuant to grants of incentive stock options that are subject to the provisions of Section 422 or 424 of the Code, will be 54 million.

·In any calendar year, no person may be granted under the amended Omnibus Plan any stock options, SARs or other awards, the value of which is based solely on an increase in the value of our common stock after the date of grant of the award, that exceed 1.5million shares of common stock in the aggregate.

·In any calendar year, the maximum aggregate amount payable under performance awards to any employee who is covered by Code Section 162(m) will be $10 million in value under the amended Omnibus Plan, whether paid in cash, shares or other property, with that dollar amount to increase after 2009 by 5% per year.

·Our non-employee directors, as a group, may not be granted awards in the aggregate of more than 5% percent of the shares of common stock available for awards under the amended Omnibus Plan.

63



Table of Contents

·No non-employee director may be granted an award under the amended Omnibus Plan unless all non-employee directors receive an award with the same terms and conditions, except where the award is compensation for service on a committee of the Board and all members of that committee receive an award with the same terms and conditions, or the award is made in connection with the director’s initial appointment to the Board.  Only the Compensation Committee(or another independent committee of the Board) may grant awards to directors who are not also employees to purchase shares of Best Buy Common or an affiliate.

The Compensation Committee may adjust the number of shares of common stock and share limits described above in the case of a stock dividend or other distribution, including a stock split, merger or other similar corporate transaction or event, in order to prevent dilution or enlargement of the benefits or potential benefits intended to be provided under the amended Omnibus Plan.

If any shares of our common stock subject to any award or to which an award relates are forfeited or are reacquired by us, or if any award terminates without the delivery of any shares, the shares previously set aside for such awards will be available for future awards under the amended Omnibus Plan.

What types of awards can be issued under the amended Omnibus Plan?

The amended Omnibus Plan permits the granting of:

·Stock during semi-annual purchase periods beginningoptions (including both incentive and non-qualified stock options),

·SARS,

·Restricted stock and restricted stock units,

·Performance awards of cash, stock or property,

·Dividend equivalents, and

·Other stock grants.

Under the amended Omnibus Plan, awards may be granted alone, in addition to, in combination with or in substitution for, any other award granted under the amended Omnibus Plan or any other compensation plan.  Awards can be granted for no cash consideration or for cash or other consideration as determined by the Compensation Committee or as required by applicable law.  Awards may provide that upon the grant or exercise thereof, the holder will receive cash, shares of our common stock or other securities, or property, or any combination of these in a single payment, installments or on a deferred basis.  The exercise price per share of common stock under any stock option and the grant price of any SAR may not be less than the fair market value of a share of common stock on the first Fridaydate of Aprilgrant of such option or SAR, except to satisfy legal requirements of foreign jurisdictions or if the award is in substitution for an award previously granted by an entity acquired by us.  Determinations of fair market value under the amended Omnibus Plan will be made in accordance with methods and October each year. During a purchase period, participating employees accumulate funds inprocedures established by the Compensation Committee and intended to comply with or be exempt from Code Section 409A.  The term of awards will not be longer than 10 years from the date of grant.

Stock Options.    The holder of an account usedoption will be entitled to purchase a number of shares of our Common Stock through payroll deductions. The shares are purchasedcommon stock at a specified exercise price during a specified time period, all as determined by the Compensation Committee. The option exercise price may be payable either in cash or, at the discretion of the Compensation Committee, in other securities or other property having a fair market value on the exercise date equal to the lesserexercise price.  Those securities may include shares of 85%common stock already held by the person exercising the option or, in the case of non-qualified option, shares to be received upon exercise of the option.

Stock Appreciation Rights.    The holder of a SAR is entitled to receive the excess of the fair market value (calculated as of the Common Stock, as measured by the closing price on the NYSE, at the beginningexercise date or, at the endCompensation Committee’s discretion, as of any time during a specified period before or

64



Table of Contents

after the exercise date) of a specified number of shares of our common stock over the grant price of the purchase period.SAR.  SARs vest and become exercisable in accordance with a vesting schedule established by the Compensation Committee.

Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units.    The aggregateholder of restricted stock will own shares of our common stock subject to restrictions imposed by the Compensation Committee (including, for example, restrictions on the right to transfer or vote the restricted shares or to receive any dividends with respect to the shares) for a specified time period determined by the Compensation Committee. The holder of restricted stock units will have the right, subject to any restrictions imposed by the Compensation Committee, to receive shares of our common stock, or a cash payment equal to the fair market value of those shares, at some future date determined by the Compensation Committee.  The minimum vesting period for these awards is over a period of at least three years from the date of grant, unless the award is conditioned on personal performance, or our performance or that of our affiliates, in which case the award must vest over a period of at least one year from the date of grant.  The Compensation Committee also may permit accelerated vesting in the case of a participant’s death, disability or retirement, or a change in control of Best Buy.  If the participant’s employment or service as a director terminates during the vesting period for any other reason, the restricted stock and restricted stock units will be forfeited, unless the Compensation Committee determines that it would be in our best interest to waive the remaining restrictions.

Performance Awards.    Performance awards granted under the amended Omnibus Plan are intended to qualify as “performance-based compensation” within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code, and to comply with or be exempt from Section 409A of the Code.  Performance awards give participants the right to receive payments in cash, stock or property based solely upon the achievement of certain performance goals during a specified performance period.  The Compensation Committee must designate all participants for each performance period, and establish performance goals and target awards for each participant no later than 90 days after the beginning of each performance period (or if earlier, within the first 25% of the performance period) and within the parameters of Section 162(m) of the Code.  Performance goals must be based solely on one or more of the following business criteria:

·Revenue;

·Cash flow;

·Gross profit;

·Earnings before interest and taxes;

·Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization;

·Net earnings;

·Earnings per share;

·Margins, including gross profit, operating and net income margins;

·Returns, including return on assets, equity, investment, capital and revenue and total stockholder return;

·Stock price;

·Economic value added;

·Working capital;

·Market share;

·Cost reductions;

65



Table of Contents

·Workforce satisfaction and diversity goals;

·Employee retention;

·Customer satisfaction;

·Completion of key projects; and

·Strategic plan development and implementation.

The measure of performance may be set by reference to an absolute standard or a comparison to specified companies or groups of companies, or other external measures, and may be applied at individual or organizational levels.  In any calendar year, the maximum aggregate amount payable under performance awards to any employee covered by Code Section 162(m) will be $10 million in value under the amended Omnibus Plan, whether paid in cash, shares or other property, with that dollar amount to increase after 2009 by 5% per year.

Dividend Equivalents.    The holder of a dividend equivalent award will be entitled to receive payments (in cash, shares of our common stock, other securities or other property) equivalent to the amount of cash dividends paid by us to our shareholders, with respect to the number of shares purchasedof common stock determined by a participating employee pursuantthe Compensation Committee.  Dividend equivalents will be subject to other terms and conditions determined by the Plan in a calendar year may not exceed $25,000 or 10,000 shares, respectively. Although participants are not required to hold purchased stock for any specific time period, certain holding requirements must be met in order to realize preferential tax treatment. See Federal Income Tax Consequences below.Compensation Committee.

 

Other Stock Awards.The Compensation and Human Resources Committee (the “Compensation Committee”) will administer the Plan and has full power to interpret the Plan. The Compensation Committee’s decisions will be final and binding on all participants. We reserve the right to amend or suspend the Plan or to terminate the participation of any participating subsidiary or group of employees at any time and for any reason. The Plan will continue until themay grant unrestricted shares reserved under the Plan are exhausted or the Plan is terminated by action of our Board.common stock, subject to terms and conditions determined by the Compensation Committee  and the amended Omnibus Plan limitations.

 

Effect of Termination of EmploymentMay awards be transferred?

 

Upon terminationUnless otherwise provided by the amended Omnibus Plan, no award (other than shares of employmentunrestricted stock) granted under the amended Omnibus Plan, and no right under any such award, will be transferable by a participant either (a) for any reason, a participating employeeconsideration or (b) without consideration except by will have no right to purchase shares under the Plan. In such event, we will pay the balance in the employee’s account to the employee or to his or her estate without interest. Neither payroll deductions credited to an employee’s account nor any rights with regard to the purchase of shares under the Plan may be assigned, transferred, pledged or otherwise disposed of in any way by the employee, other than by the laws of descent and distribution.

 

Federal Income Tax ConsequencesMay awards be re-priced?

 

We intend thatWithout the Plan qualify asapproval of our shareholders, no option or SAR may be amended to reduce its initial exercise or grant price, and no option or SAR may be canceled and replaced with an “employeeoption, SAR or other award having a lower exercise price, except in connection with a stock purchase plan” under Section 423dividend or other distribution, including a stock split, merger or other similar corporate transaction or event, in order to prevent dilution or enlargement of the Code. Underbenefits, or potential benefits intended to be provided under the Code, we are deemed to grant employee participants inamended Omnibus Plan.

May the amended Omnibus Plan an “option” onbe amended further?

Yes. The Board of Directors may amend, alter, suspend, discontinue or terminate the first day of each purchase period to purchase as many shares of Common Stock as the employeeamended Omnibus Plan at any time, except that prior shareholder approval will be ablerequired for any amendment to purchase with the payroll deductions creditedamended Omnibus Plan that:

·Requires shareholder approval under the rules or regulations of the NYSE or any other securities exchange that are applicable to his or her account during the purchase period. On the last day of each six-month purchase period, the purchase price is determined and the employee is deemed to have exercised the “option” and purchasedus;

·Increases the number of shares his or her accumulated payroll deductions will purchase at the purchase price. Neither the grant nor the exercise of an “option” to purchase sharescommon stock authorized under the amended Omnibus Plan will have any tax consequences(except in the case of a stock split or other recapitalization);

·Increases the number of shares of common stock subject to the employee participantsaward limitations described above under “How Many Shares Are Available for Issuance Under the Amended Omnibus Plan?” (except in the case of a stock split or to Best Buy.other recapitalization);

 

The required holding period for favorable federal income tax treatment upon disposition66



Table of Common Stock acquired underContents

·Permits repricing of outstanding stock options or SARs (except in the Plan iscase of a stock split or other recapitalization);

·Permits the lateraward of (1) two years after the deemed “option” is granted (the first daystock options or SARs with an exercise price less than 100 % of the purchase period) or (2) one year after the deemed “option” is exercised and the Common Stock is purchased (the purchase date). When the Common Stock is disposed of after the required holding period expires (a “qualifying disposition”), the employee realizes ordinary income to the extent of the lesser of (a) the amount by which the fair market value of a share of our common stock on the Common Stock atdate of grant (except to satisfy legal requirements of foreign jurisdictions or if the timeaward is in substitution for an award previously granted by an entity acquired by us);

·Expands the deemed “option” was granted exceededclasses or categories of persons eligible to receive awards under the “option price”amended Omnibus Plan; or (b)

·Would cause the amount by which the fair market valueperformance-based compensation exception under Section 162(m) of the CommonCode to become unavailable with respect to awards under the amended Omnibus Plan.

 

39Subject to the provisions of the amended Omnibus Plan or an award agreement, the Compensation Committee may not amend any outstanding award agreement without the participant’s consent, if the action would adversely affect the participant’s rights.



 

Stock atWhat are the timefederal income tax consequences of awards under the disposition exceededamended Omnibus Plan?

Grant of Options and SARs.  The grant of a stock option or SAR is not expected to result in any taxable income for the “option price.” The “option price” isrecipient.

Exercise of Options and SARs.  When the holder of a non-qualified stock option exercises the option, the holder must recognize ordinary income equal to 85% of the lesserexcess of the fair market value of the Common Stockshares of our common stock acquired on the first daydate of exercise over the exercise price, and we will generally be entitled at that time to an income tax deduction for the same amount. The holder of an incentive stock option generally will have no taxable income upon exercising the option (except that an alternative minimum tax liability may arise), and we will not be entitled to an income tax deduction. Upon exercising a SAR, the amount of any cash received and the fair market value on the exercise date of any shares of our common stock received are taxable to the recipient as ordinary income and generally deductible by us.

Disposition of Shares Acquired Upon Exercise of Options and SARs.  The tax consequence upon a person’s disposition of shares of common stock acquired through the exercise of an option or SAR will depend on how long the shares have been held, and whether the shares were acquired by exercising an incentive stock option or by exercising a non-qualified stock option or SAR.  Generally, there will be no tax consequence to us in connection with a person’s disposition of shares of common stock acquired under an option or SAR, except that we may be entitled to an income tax deduction in the case of the purchase perioddisposition of shares acquired under an incentive stock option before the applicable incentive stock option holding periods set forth in the Code have been satisfied.

Awards Other Than Options and SARs.  As to other awards granted under the Omnibus Plan that are payable either in cash or shares of our common stock that are either transferable or not subject to substantial risk of forfeiture, the holder of the award must recognize ordinary income equal to (a) the amount of cash received or, as applicable; (b) the excess of (i) the fair market value of the Common Stock on the purchase date. Thus, the maximum amount of gain taxable as ordinary income is the amount of the 15% discount measuredshares received (determined as of the last daydate of receipt) over (ii) the amount (if any) paid for the shares by the holder of the award.  We will generally be entitled at that time to an income tax deduction for the same amount.

As to an award that is less thanpayable in shares of our common stock that are restricted from transfer and subject to substantial risk of forfeiture unless a special election is made by the option price, there is noholder of the award under the Code, the holder must recognize ordinary income and any loss recognized generally will be a long-term capital loss.

If an employee holds shares purchased under the Plan at the time of his or her death, the required holding periods will automatically be deemed to have been satisfied and ordinary income must be realized by the employeeequal to the extentexcess of the lesser of (a) the amount by which(i) the fair market value of the Common Stock atshares received (determined as of the first time the deemed “option” was granted exceeded the “option price”shares become transferable or (b)not subject to substantial risk of forfeiture, whichever occurs earlier) over (ii) the amount by which the fair market value of the Common Stock at the time of death exceeded the “option price.”

When an employee sells the Common Stock before the expiration of the required holding period (a “disqualifying disposition”), the employee recognizes ordinary income to the extent of the difference between the price actually(if any) paid for the Common Stock andshares by the fair market valueholder of the Common Stockaward.  We will generally be entitled at that time to an income tax deduction for the date the option was exercised (the purchase date), regardless of the price at which the Common Stock is sold. Any additional gain recognized upon the disqualifying disposition will be a capital gain. The capital gain will be long-term if the employee held the shares more than 12 months. If the sale price is less than the fair market value of the Common Stock at the date of exercise, then the employee will have a capital loss equal to such difference.same amount.

 

Even though an employee must treat part of his or her gain on a qualifying disposition of the Common Stock as ordinary income, we may not take a business deduction for such amount. However, if an employee makes a disqualifying disposition, the amount of income that the employee recognizes as ordinary income qualifies as a business deduction for Best Buy for the year of such disposition (subjectOur Income Tax Deduction.   Subject to the provisionsusual rules concerning reasonable compensation, and assuming that, as expected, performance awards paid under the amended Omnibus Plan are “qualified performance-based compensation” within the meaning of Section 162(m) of the Code)Code, we will generally be entitled to a corresponding income tax deduction

67



Table of Contents

at the time a participant recognizes ordinary income from awards made under the amended Omnibus Plan.  However, we will not receive any income tax deduction when a participant recognizes capital gain income upon disposition of shares of common stock received pursuant to an incentive stock option or any other form of award.

Delivery of Shares for Tax Obligation.  Under the amended Omnibus Plan, the Compensation Committee may permit participants receiving or exercising awards, subject to the discretion of the Compensation Committee and upon such terms and conditions as it may impose, to deliver to us shares of common stock (either shares received upon the receipt or exercise of the award, or shares previously owned by the holder of the option) to satisfy federal and state income tax obligations.

Section 409A of the Code.  The Compensation Committee will administer and interpret the amended Omnibus Plan and all award agreements in a manner intended to satisfy the requirements of Section 409A of the Code, so as to minimize the risk of any adverse tax results thereunder to a holder of an award. If any provision of the amended Omnibus Plan or any award agreement would result in such adverse consequences, the Compensation Committee may amend that provision or take other reasonably necessary action to minimize the participants’ risk of any adverse tax results; no such action shall be deemed to impair or otherwise adversely affect the rights of an holder of an award under the amended Omnibus Plan.

What future awards will be granted under the amended Omnibus Plan?

The number and types of awards that will be granted in the future under the amended Omnibus Plan are not determinable, as the Compensation Committee will make these determinations in its sole discretion. The closing price of a share of our common stock as reported on the NYSE on May 1, 2009, was $[].  No awards granted under the Omnibus Plan before the date of the 2009 Annual Meeting of Shareholders have been made subject to shareholder approval of the amended Omnibus Plan.

Equity Compensation Plan Information

 

The foregoing summaryfollowing table provides information about Best Buy common stock that may be issued under our equity compensation plans as of February 28, 2009:

68



Table of Contents

Plan Category

 

Securities to Be Issued
Upon Exercise of
Outstanding Options

 

Weighted
Average
Exercise Price
1

 

Securities
Available
for Future
Issuance 
2

 

Equity compensation plans approved by security holders3

 

42,954,756

4

$

38.37

 

10,369,619

 

Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders5

 

11,250

 

34.44

 

NA

 

Total

 

42,966,066

 

$

38.37

 

10,369,619

 


1

Includes weighted average exercise price of outstanding stock options only.

2

Includes 6,249,572 shares of Best Buy common stock which have been reserved for issuance under the ESPP.

3

Includes the 1994 Full-Time Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan, the 1997 Directors’ Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan, the 1997 Employee Non-Qualified Stock Option Plan and the 2004 Omnibus Stock and Incentive Plan, as amended.

4

Includes grants of stock options and market-based, performance-based and time-based restricted stock.

5

Represents non-plan options issued to Mr. Willett in April 2002 in consideration of his service to the Board prior to his employment with us. The options, which were fully vested upon grant, have an exercise price of $34.44 per share and expire on April 11, 2012.

Board Voting Recommendation

Upon the recommendation of management, the Board adopted the amendments to the Best Buy Co., Inc. 2004 Omnibus Stock and Incentive Plan (as previously amended in 2007), which (a) increase the number of shares of common stock subject to the plan, (b) increase the number of shares of common stock subject to grants of restricted stock, restricted stock units and other stock awards, and (c) increase the maximum aggregate amount payable annually under performance awards to any employee covered by Code Section 162(m); the Board recommends to the shareholders that they vote FOR the approval of these amendments.

The affirmative vote of the federal income tax consequences in respectholders of a majority of the voting power of the shares of our common stock present, in person or by proxy, and entitled to vote (excluding broker non-votes), is required to approve the amendments to the Best Buy Co., Inc. 2004 Omnibus Stock and Incentive Plan that are being presented for shareholder approval.

IT IS INTENDED THAT, UNLESS OTHERWISE INSTRUCTED, THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THE PROXY (OTHER THAN BROKER NON-VOTES) WILL BE VOTED “FOR” APPROVAL OF THE AMENDMENTS TO THE BEST BUY CO., INC. 2004 OMNIBUS STOCK AND INCENTIVE PLAN REGARDING THE NUMBERS OF SHARES THAT MAY BE ISSUED PURSUANT TO THE PLAN AND THE ANNUAL AMOUNTS PAYABLE UNDER PERFORMANCE AWARDS TO CERTAIN EMPLOYEES.

69



Table of Contents

ITEMS OF BUSINESS NOS. 4 TO 9 — APPROVAL OF AMENDMENTS TO OUR AMENDED AND RESTATED ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION

We are proposing six amendments to our Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation (the “Current Articles”). Each proposed amendment eliminates or decreases certain existing supermajority voting provisions.  Four of the amendments are included in Article IX, Regulation of Certain Events, and two of the amendments are included in Article X, Stock Repurchases from Certain Shareholders. For simplicity, our descriptions of the proposed amendments are grouped by Article.

This summary does not contain all the information that may be important to you. The complete text of the Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation as they are proposed to be amended (the “Amended Articles) is included in Appendix A-1 to this Proxy Statement. The following summary is qualified in its entirety by reference to the text of the Amended Articles. You are urged to read the Amended Articles in their entirety.

Information About the Four Amendments to Article IX

The Board, in its continuing review of best practices in corporate governance, has evaluated the supermajority voting provisions in Article IX of the Current Articles. Pursuant to Article IX, the affirmative vote of at least 80% of the then-outstanding voting power is required for general information only. Differentthe approval of certain “Business Combinations” (as defined therein), the amendment of Article IX, the removal of directors without cause, and the amendment of the classified board provision of our Amended and Restated By-laws. Management is proposing to amend Article IX to (i) provide an approval requirement that is substantially similar to the approval required for business combinations under the Minnesota Business Corporation Act, (ii) decrease the shareholder approval required to amend Article IX, (iii) eliminate the supermajority approval requirement to remove a director without cause, and (iv) decrease the shareholder approval required to amend the provision in our Amended and Restated By-laws providing for a classified board. If one or additional rules may applymore of the proposed amendments to individuals who are subject to income tax in a foreign jurisdiction or are subject to state and/or local income taxes. Participating employeesArticle IX is approved by our shareholders at the Meeting, they will be urged to consult their own advisors as to specific tax consequences.effective following the Meeting.

 

New Plan BenefitsBusiness Combinations. The Board has concluded that it is in the best interests of Best Buy and its shareholders to eliminate the supermajority shareholder vote required to approve certain Business Combinations. Under the provisions of Article IX, a Business Combination generally is defined to include certain mergers, consolidations, share exchanges, asset transfers, issuances of equity securities, acquisitions of equity securities and reclassifications of equity securities in which a 5% or greater shareholder of Best Buy (or one of its affiliates or associates) is a party. Subject to certain exceptions, including exceptions based on the price being paid in the transaction or the approval of a majority of the “Continuing Directors” (as defined in Article IX), a Business Combination with such a shareholder requires the affirmative vote of 80% of the then-outstanding shares entitled to vote and at least 66-2/3% of the shares held by persons other than the 5% or greater shareholder that is involved in the transaction.

 

Because benefitsUnder the provisions of the Minnesota Business Corporation Act, an “interested shareholder” (defined generally as a shareholder owning at least 10% of the outstanding voting shares) cannot enter into a “business combination” (defined generally to include the same or similar transactions as those described above in the definition of Business Combination under the PlanCurrent Articles) with the corporation for four years after becoming an interested shareholder, unless prior to the transaction by which the shareholder becomes an interested shareholder, a committee composed solely of one or more “disinterested” (defined generally as a person who has not been an officer or employee of the corporation or a related organization during the preceding five years) directors or, if there are no such disinterested directors, by a committee of three or more disinterested persons who are not directors, approves either the business combination or the transaction by which the shareholder becomes an interested shareholder. Management believes that it is in the best interests of the shareholders to amend Article IX to require the type of approval for Business Combinations that is substantially similar to the approval requirements set forth in the Minnesota Business Combinations Act, as described above.  As a result, in the event we are involved in a transaction that constitutes a Business Combination under the Amended Articles, the provisions of the amended Article IX will depend upon employee electionsoperate in a way that is substantially similar to the provisions for approval of business combinations set forth in the Minnesota Business Corporation Act. Any differences between the proposed amendment described herein and the fair market valueprovisions for approval of business

70



Table of Contents

combinations set forth in the Minnesota Business Corporation Act are not intended to result in any substantive differences.

Amendment of Article IX.  The Board has concluded that it is in the best interests of Best Buy and its shareholders to reduce the shareholder vote required to amend, alter or repeal Article IX. As a result of this proposed amendment, under certain circumstances, the affirmative vote of at least 66-2/3% of the then-outstanding shares entitled to vote and at least 66-2/3% of the shares held by shareholders other than the interested shareholder that is involved in the Business Combination would be required to amend, alter or repeal Article IX. In the event we are involved in a transaction that constitutes a business combination under the Minnesota Business Corporation Act, the provisions of Article IX, as amended or altered, and the provisions of the statute would govern. If Article IX has been repealed pursuant to the amendment procedures set forth above, only the statute would govern.

Removal of Directors. The Board has concluded that it is in the best interests of Best Buy and its shareholders to delete the provisions in Article IX relating to the removal of a director without cause. As a result, in the event the shareholders seek to remove a director without cause, the provisions of the Minnesota Business Corporation Act relating to the removal of directors without cause would govern, requiring the affirmative vote of a majority of the then-outstanding voting power.

Amendment of Classified Board By-law Provision.  The Board has concluded that it is in the best interests of Best Buy and its shareholders to reduce the shareholder vote required to amend Section 1 of Article III of our Common StockAmended and Restated By-laws, which provides for, among other things, a classified board of directors.  As a result of this proposed amendment, under most circumstances, the affirmative vote of 66-2/3% of the then-outstanding shares entitled to vote would be required to amend Section 1 of Article III of the Amended and Restated By-laws.

Potential Anti-Takeover Effect

Notwithstanding the proposed amendments, certain provisions of the amended Article IX could continue to have an anti-takeover effect by, in certain circumstances, creating an impediment which may frustrate or delay persons seeking to effect a takeover or otherwise gain control of our company. These provisions are:

·The “Business Combination” provision, which like the Minnesota Business Corporation Act, would require the timely vote of a majority of a committee composed solely of disinterested directors or persons;

·The provision for amending Article IX, which would generally require the affirmative vote of at various future dates, itleast 66-2/3% of the then-outstanding shares entitled to vote and at least 66-2/3% of the shares held by shareholders other than the interested shareholder that is not possible to determine the benefits that will be received by Best Buy executive officers and other employees if the Plan is approved by the shareholders. Non-employee directors are not eligible to participateinvolved in the Plan.Business Combination; and

 

·The full textprovision for amending Section 1 of Article III of our Amended and Restated By-laws, which provides for a classified board of directors, which would generally require the affirmative vote of 66-2/3% of the Plan is attachedthen-outstanding shares entitled to this proxy statement as Appendix B.vote.

 

Board Voting Recommendation

 

UponThe Board approved each of the recommendationfour amendments to Article IX of management, the Board adopted the Best Buy Co., Inc. 2008 Employee Stock Purchase Planour Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation described above, and recommends that shareholders vote FOR each of the proposal to approve the Plan.amendments.

 

The affirmative vote of the holders ofat least a majority of the voting power of the shares present, in person or by proxy, and entitled to vote (excluding broker non-votes) is required to approve each of the Best Buy Co., Inc. 2008 Employee Stock Purchase Plan.four amendments.

 

IT IS INTENDED THAT, UNLESS OTHERWISE INSTRUCTED, THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THE PROXY (OTHER THAN BROKER NON-VOTES) WILL BE VOTED “FOR” EACH OF THE PROPOSALFOUR PROPOSALS TO APPROVEAMEND ARTICLE IX OF THE BEST BUY CO., INC. 2008 EMPLOYEE STOCK PURCHASE PLAN.AMENDED AND RESTATED ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION.

 

71



Table of ContentsITEM OF BUSINESS NO. 4 - APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT TO OUR RESTATED ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION

 

Information About the AmendmentTwo Amendments to Article X

 

Our Amended and Restated By-laws specify majorityThe Board has also evaluated the supermajority voting for each itemprovisions in Article X of businessthe Current Articles.  Pursuant to be voted on by our shareholders.  In accordance with our Amended and Restated By-laws, we had previously requiredArticle X, the affirmative vote of the holders of a majorityat least 80% of the then-outstanding shares of Best Buy Common Stock presentheld by shareholders other than a “substantial shareholder” (defined in Article X as a shareholder holding at a meeting and entitled to vote for the election of directors. However, a recent change to Minnesota law requires that, unless otherwise provided in a company’s articles of incorporation, directors are to be elected by a pluralityleast 10% of the outstanding voting powershares) is required to approve certain repurchases of stock from the shares present at a meeting.  The Board believessubstantial shareholder, as well as to amend Article X. Management is proposing to amend Article X to (i) provide an approval requirement that a majority voting standardis substantially similar to the approval required for repurchases of stock from certain shareholders under the election of directors is consistent with corporate governance best practices. Therefore,Minnesota Business Corporation Act, and (ii) decrease the Board has approved, and recommends shareholder approval of, an amendmentrequired to our Restated Articles of Incorporation to require that directors receive a majority of the votes cast in order to be elected to the Board.

The amendment to our Restated Articles of Incorporation operates as follows:

·  Subject to the rights, if any, of holders of any preferred stock of Best Buy, each director shall be elected at a meeting of shareholders by the vote of a majority of the votes cast with respect to the director.

·  For purposes of the majority voting standard, a majority of the votes cast means that the votes entitled to be cast by the holders of all the then outstanding shares of voting stock of Best Buy that are voted “for” a director must exceed the shares voted “against” the director.

The amendment is effected by amendingamend Article III of our Restated Articles of Incorporation. The full textX. If one or more of the proposed Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation is attachedamendments to this proxy statement as Appendix A. If the amendmentArticle X is approved by our shareholders at the Meeting, the

40



majority voting standard for director electionsthey will be effective following the Meeting.

Anti-Greenmail. The Board has concluded that it is in the best interests of Best Buy and its shareholders to eliminate the supermajority shareholder vote required to approve certain “greenmail” transactions. Under the provisions of Article X, our repurchase of stock from a substantial shareholder requires the affirmative vote of 80% of the then-outstanding shares held by shareholders other than the substantial shareholder if the purchase price exceeds 105% of the market value of the shares, the substantial shareholder has owned the shares for less than three years, and all other holders of the same class or series of shares are not offered a price for their shares substantially as favorable.

Under the Minnesota Business Corporation Act, a majority of the then-outstanding shares entitled to vote must approve the purchase of stock by a corporation from a shareholder owning more than 5% of the outstanding voting shares if the purchase price exceeds the market value of the shares, the shareholder has owned the shares for less than two years, and all other holders of the same class or series of shares are not offered at least equal value for their shares. Management believes that it is in the best interests of the shareholders to amend Article X to conform to the provisions of the Minnesota Business Combination Act governing certain share repurchases.

Amendment of Article X.  The Board has concluded that it is in the best interests of Best Buy and its shareholders to reduce the shareholder vote required to amend, alter or repeal Article X. As a result of this proposed amendment, under certain circumstances, the affirmative vote of at least 66-2/3% of the then-outstanding shares entitled to vote would be required to amend, alter or repeal Article X.

Potential Anti-Takeover Effect

Notwithstanding the proposed amendments, certain provisions of the amended Article X could continue to have an anti-takeover effect by, in certain circumstances, creating an impediment which may frustrate or delay persons seeking to effect a takeover or otherwise gain control of our company. These provisions are:

·The “anti-greenmail” provision, which like the Minnesota Business Corporation Act, would require the vote of a majority of the then-outstanding shares entitled to vote, as well as conform the provisions of Article X to other standards of the statutory provision; and

·The provision for amending Article X, which would generally require the affirmative vote of at least 66-2/3% of the then-outstanding shares entitled to vote.

 

Board Voting Recommendation

 

The Board approved an amendmenteach of the two amendments to Article X of our Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation to require a majority voting standard for the election of directorsdescribed above, and recommends that shareholders vote FOR each of the proposal to so amend the Restated Articles of Incorporation.amendments.

 

The affirmative vote of the holders ofat least a majority of the voting power of the shares present, in person or by proxy, and entitled to vote (excluding broker non-votes) is required to approve each of the amendment to our Restated Articlestwo amendments.

72



Table of Incorporation.Contents

 

IT IS INTENDED THAT, UNLESS OTHERWISE INSTRUCTED, THE SHARES REPRESENTED BY THE PROXY (OTHER THAN BROKER NON-VOTES) WILL BE VOTED “FOR” EACH OF THE PROPOSALTWO PROPOSALS TO AMEND ARTICLE X OF THE AMENDED AND RESTATED ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION TO REQUIRE A MAJORITY VOTING STANDARD FOR THE ELECTION OF DIRECTORS.INCORPORATION.

 

OTHER BUSINESS

 

Management and the Board are not aware of any other item of business that will be addressed at the Meeting. If any other item of business is properly brought before the Meeting, the Proxy Agents will vote the shares they represent as the Board recommends.

 

PROPOSALS FOR THE NEXT REGULAR MEETING

 

Any shareholder proposal intended to be presented for consideration at our 20092010 Regular Meeting of Shareholders and to be included in our proxy statement for that meeting must be received no later than January 15, 2009,11, 2010, at our principal executive office, addressed as follows:

 

Best Buy Co., Inc.

Attn: Legal Department B6

7601 Penn Avenue South

Richfield, Minnesota 55423

 

Any shareholder proposal received after that date and intended to be presented for consideration at our 20092010 Regular Meeting of Shareholders, though not included in our proxy statement, will be considered untimely if received after March 31, 2009.29, 2010. In the event of an untimely proposal, our designated proxy agents may have discretionary authority to vote on such proposal.

 

By Order of the Board of Directors

Elliot S. Kaplan

Secretary

[May 12, 2009]

 

Elliot S. Kaplan

Secretary

[May 12, 2008]

4173



Table of Contents

BEST BUY CO., INC.

AUDIT COMMITTEE

CHARTER

Purpose

The Audit Committee (“Committee”) of Best Buy Co., Inc. (“Company”) is appointed by the Board of Directors (“Board”) to discharge the Board’s responsibilities relating to oversight of the following: 1) the integrity of the Company’s financial statements and financial reporting processes, 2) the Company’s internal accounting systems, financial and operational controls, 3) the qualifications and independence of the independent auditor, 4) the performance of the Company’s Internal Audit function and the independent auditor, and 5) management’s efforts to ensure Company compliance with its ethics programs, including the its Code of Business Ethics, and legal and regulatory requirements. In so doing, the Committee will maintain free and open communication between the Board, the independent auditor, Internal Auditors and management of the Company.

Committee Membership

The Committee will be composed of at least three directors, each of whom shall meet the independence and experience requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) as defined by the New York Stock Exchange listing standards. All Committee members will be financially literate and will have sufficient knowledge of financial matters to enable them to carry out the responsibilities of the Committee. At least one member of the Committee will be designated as the “financial expert,” as defined by applicable rules and regulations.  In addition, members of the Committee may not accept any consulting, advisory, or other compensatory fee from the Company (other than in their capacity as a member of the Board or one or more of the Board’s committees) and may not be affiliated persons of the Company or its subsidiaries. The Committee members and Chairperson will be appointed by the Board pursuant to the recommendations of the nominating committee of the Board and may be removed by the Board in its discretion.  No Committee member will simultaneously serve on the audit committees of more than two other public companies. The Committee will have authority to delegate any of its responsibilities to subcommittees as the Committee may deem appropriate, provided the subcommittees are composed entirely of independent directors.

Meetings

The Committee will meet at least four times a year, with authority to convene additional meetings, as circumstances require.  All Committee members are expected to attend each meeting, in person or via tele- or video-conference.  A majority of the Committee will comprise a quorum when all Committee members are unable to attend a meeting.  The Committee may request that other Board members, or officers or other employees of the Company, or any other persons whose advice and counsel are sought by the Committee, attend any meeting of the Committee to provide pertinent information.  The Committee may exclude from its meetings any persons it deems inappropriate. Periodically, the Committee may meet in executive session separately without management, with internal auditors and with the Company’s independent auditor.  If practicable, meeting agendas will be prepared in advance of the meeting and distributed to members, along with appropriate briefing materials.

Committee Authority

The Committee will have the authority to conduct or authorize investigations into any matters within its scope of responsibility.   It is empowered to:

·Obtain full access to all relevant records, property and personnel of the Company.

·Retain, at the Company’s expense outside counsel or other experts and advisors as it determines necessary.

·Approve appropriate compensation for the independent auditor or any other registered public accounting firm engaged for the purposes of preparing or issuing an audit report or performing other audit, review or attestation services for the Company.

A-1



Table of Contents

·Approve appropriate compensation at the Company’s expense for any advisers engaged by the Committee for the purpose of carrying out its duties, and ordinary administrative expenses of the Committee.

Committee Responsibility

The following represent the primary recurring duties of the Committee in carrying out its oversight responsibilities:

A.Independent Auditor

1.The Committee will be directly responsible for the appointment (subject, as applicable, to shareholder ratification), termination, compensation and oversight of the work of the independent auditor, including resolution of disagreements between management and the independent auditor regarding financial reporting. The Committee will, at least annually, evaluate the independent auditor’s qualifications, performance and independence, taking into account the opinions of management and its internal auditors. Such evaluation will include the review and evaluation of the experience and qualifications of the senior members of the independent auditor team.  The conclusions regarding the independent auditor evaluation will be presented to the Board.

2.The Committee will ensure the rotation of the lead audit partner and other audit partners as professional standards dictate, and consider whether there should be regular rotation of the audit firm itself.

3.The Committee will pre-approve all audit and non-audit services provided by the independent auditor unless such services are considered de-minimus audit-related services as defined by the SEC and acceptable under the Company’s independent auditor policy. The Committee may delegate pre-approval authority to a member of the Committee. The decisions of any Committee member to whom pre-approval authority is delegated must be presented to the Committee at its next scheduled meeting.

4.At least annually, the Committee will obtain and review a report by the independent auditor describing:

a.The firm’s internal quality control procedures.

b.Any material issues raised by:

(i)The most recent internal quality control review, reviews performed by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (“PCAOB”) or SEC, or any other peer review of the firm,

(ii)Any inquiry or investigation by governmental or professional authorities, within the preceding five years, respecting one or more independent audits carried out by the firm, and

(iii)Any steps taken to deal with any such issues.

c.All relationships between the independent auditor and the Company to assess the auditor’s independence under Rule 3526 of the PCAOB.

5.The Committee will establish for the Company clear hiring policies for employees or former employees of the independent auditor that meet applicable listing standards as well as federal rules and regulations.

A-2



Table of Contents

B.Audit Processes and Reporting

1.The Committee will meet with the internal auditors, the independent auditors and appropriate management of the Company to review the overall scope and plans for their respective audits, including the adequacy of staffing and compensation. The Committee will also meet with these groups to discuss the adequacy and effectiveness of the Company’s accounting, financial and other internal controls. Further, the Committee will meet separately with management, its internal auditors and the independent auditor periodically, to discuss the results of their examinations and whether there were any audit problems or difficulties encountered during their work or with management’s responses.

2.The Committee will review:

a.Reports from the independent auditor on the critical policies and practices of the Company, and all alternative treatments of financial information within generally accepted accounting principles that have been discussed with management.

b.Management’s assertion on its assessment of the effectiveness of internal controls as of the end of the most recent fiscal year.

c.All required communications between the independent auditor and the Company, such as the management letter or accounting adjustments that were noted or proposed by the independent auditor, but were not adopted or reflected.

d.At their discretion, any material communications between the independent auditor’s audit team and the independent auditor’s national office regarding auditing or accounting issues presented by the engagement.

e. The Internal Audit function including; the Internal Audit charter, significant audit results, budgeting and staffing.

3.The Committee will discuss with the independent auditor the effect of regulatory and accounting initiatives as well as off-balance sheet structures that may have a material impact on the Company’s financial statements.

4.The Committee will review the interim financial statements with management and the independent auditor prior to the filing of the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Also, the Committee will discuss the results of the quarterly review and any other matters required to be communicated to the Committee by the independent auditor under generally accepted auditing standards.  Further, the Committee will review and discuss with management and the independent auditor earnings press releases, including the use, if any, of “pro-forma” or “adjusted” non-GAAP information, as well as earnings guidance provided to analysts and rating agencies.  The Chairperson or a designee of the Committee may represent the entire Committee for purposes of these reviews.

5.The Committee will review with management and the independent auditor the financial statements and disclosures under Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, to be included in the Company’s Annual Reports on Form 10-K. The Committee will also review with management and the independent auditor their judgments about the quality, not just acceptability, of accounting principles, the reasonableness of significant judgments and the clarity of the disclosures in the financial statements. Additionally, the Committee will discuss the results of the annual audit and any other matters required to be communicated to the Committee by the independent auditor under generally accepted auditing standards. Following completion of the annual audit, the Committee will review the independent auditor’s recommendations to management as well as the results of procedures performed.

A-3



Table of Contents

6.The Committee will prepare its report to be included in the Company’s annual proxy statements, as required by SEC regulations.

7.The Committee will review disclosures made by the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer during the Forms 10-K and 10-Q certification processes about significant deficiencies, if any, in the design or operation of internal controls or any fraud that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the Company’s internal controls.

C.Legal and Ethical Compliance

1.The Committee will establish procedures for the receipt, retention and treatment of complaints received regarding accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters, and the confidential, anonymous submission by employees of concerns regarding questionable accounting or auditing matters.  In addition, if appropriate, the Committee will periodically receive Company attorneys’ reports of evidence of material violations of securities laws, or breaches of fiduciary duty.

2.The Committee will evaluate the Company’s policies and procedures to assess, monitor and manage legal and ethical compliance programs, including the Company’s Code of Business Ethics and Related Party Transactions Policy.  The Committee will also review material related party transactions.

3.The Committee will also discuss with management the Company’s major financial risk exposures and the steps management has taken to monitor and control such exposures, including the Company’s risk assessment and risk management policies.

The Committee will also undertake such additional activities as the Committee may from time to time determine or as may otherwise be required by law, the company’s articles or by-laws or directive of the Board.

The Committee will make regular reports to the Board and will recommend any proposed actions to the Board for approval as necessary. The Committee will review and reassess the adequacy of this Charter at least annually and recommend any proposed changes to the Board for approval and cause the Charter to be approved at least once every three years in accordance with the regulations of the SEC.

The Committee will at least annually evaluate its own performance to determine whether it is functioning effectively.

The primary responsibility of the Committee is to oversee the Company’s financial reporting process and report the results of its activities to the Board. Management is responsible for preparing the Company’s financial statements and the independent auditor is responsible for auditing those financial statements. In carrying out its oversight responsibilities, the Committee believes its policies and procedures should remain flexible, in order to best react to changing conditions and with the objective of assessing whether the Company’s accounting and financial reporting practices are in accordance with all requirements and are of the highest quality.

A-4



Table of Contents

BEST BUY CO., INC.

2004 OMNIBUS STOCK AND INCENTIVE PLAN

(As amended June     , 2009)

Table of Contents

Section 1.

Purpose

B-1

Section 2.

Definitions

B-1

Section 3.

Administration

B-3

(a)

Power and Authority of the Committee

B-3

(b)

Power and Authority of the Board

B-3

Section 4.

Shares Available for Awards

B-3

(a)

Shares Available

B-3

(b)

Accounting for Awards

B-3

(c)

Adjustments

B-4

(d)

Award Limitations Under the Plan

B-4

Section 5.

Eligibility

B-5

Section 6.

Awards

B-5

(a)

Options

B-5

(b)

Stock Appreciation Rights

B-6

(c)

Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units

B-6

(d)

Performance Awards

B-7

(e)

Dividend Equivalents

B-7

(f)

Other Stock Grants

B-7

(g)

General

B-7

Section 7.

Amendment and Termination; Adjustments

B-9

(a)

Amendments to the Plan

B-9

(b)

Amendments to Awards

B-9

(c)

Correction of Defects, Omissions and Inconsistencies

B-9

Section 8.

Income Tax Withholding

B-10

Section 9.

General Provisions

B-10

(a)

No Rights to Awards

B-10

(b)

Award Agreements

B-10

(c)

Plan Provisions Control

B-10

(d)

No Rights of Shareholders

B-10

(e)

No Limit on Other Compensation Arrangements

B-10

(f)

No Right to Employment

B-10

(g)

Governing Law

B-10

(h)

Severability

B-10

(i)

No Trust or Fund Created

B-11

(j)

No Fractional Shares

B-11

(k)

Headings

B-11

Section 10.

Effective Date of the Plan

B-11

Section 11.

Term of the Plan

B-11



Table of Contents

BEST BUY CO., INC.

2004 OMNIBUS STOCK AND INCENTIVE PLAN

Section 1.        Purpose and Background

The purpose of the Plan is to promote the interests of the Company and its shareholders by aiding the Company in attracting and retaining employees, officers, consultants, advisors and directors capable of assuring the future success of the Company, to offer such persons incentives to put forth maximum efforts for the success of the Company’s business and to compensate such persons through various stock-based arrangements and provide them with opportunities for stock ownership in the Company, thereby aligning the interests of such persons with the Company’s shareholders.

Section 2.        Definitions

As used in the Plan, the following terms shall have the meanings set forth below:

(a)  “Affiliate” shall mean (i) any entity that, directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, is controlled by the Company and (ii) any entity in which the Company has a significant equity interest, in each case as determined by the Committee.

(b)  “Award” shall mean any Option, Stock Appreciation Right, Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Unit, Performance Award, Dividend Equivalent or Other Stock Grant granted under the Plan.

(c)  “Award Agreement” shall mean any written agreement, contract or other instrument or document evidencing an Award granted under the Plan. Each Award Agreement shall be subject to the applicable terms and conditions of the Plan and any other terms and conditions (not inconsistent with the Plan) determined by the Committee.

(d)  “Board” shall mean the Board of Directors of the Company.

(e)  “Change in Control” shall have the meaning ascribed to such term in an Award Agreement, or any other applicable employment or change in control agreement between the Participant and the Company.

(f)  “Code” shall mean the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended from time to time, and any regulations promulgated thereunder.

(g)  “Committee” shall mean the Compensation and Human Resources Committee of the Board or any other committee of the Board designated by the Board to administer the Plan. The Committee shall be comprised of not less than such number of Directors as shall be required to permit Awards granted under the Plan to qualify under Rule 16b-3 and Section 162(m), and each member of the Committee shall be a “Non-Employee Director.”

(h)  “Company” shall mean Best Buy Co., Inc., a Minnesota corporation, and any successor corporation.

(i)  “Director” shall mean a member of the Board, including any Non-Employee Director.

(j)  “Dividend Equivalent” shall mean any right granted under Section 6(e) of the Plan.

(k)  “Eligible Person” shall mean any employee, officer, consultant, advisor or director providing services to the Company or any Affiliate who the Committee determines to be an Eligible Person. An Eligible Person must be a natural person.

(l)  “Exchange Act” shall mean the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

(m)  “Fair Market Value” shall mean, with respect to any property (including, without limitation, any Shares or other securities), the fair market value of such property determined by such methods or procedures as shall be established from time to time by the Committee. Notwithstanding the foregoing and unless otherwise determined by the Committee, the Fair Market Value of a Share as of a given date shall be, if the Shares are then listed on the

B-1



Table of Contents

New York Stock Exchange, the closing price of one Share as reported on the New York Stock Exchange on such date or, if the New York Stock Exchange is not open for trading on such date, on the most recent preceding date when it is open for trading.

(n)  “Incentive Stock Option” shall mean an option granted under Section 6(a) of the Plan that is intended to qualify as an “incentive stock option” in accordance with the terms of Section 422 of the Code or any successor provision.

(o)  “Non-Employee Director” shall mean any Director who is a “non-employee director” as defined under subparagraph (b)(3) of Rule 16b-3 and is an “outside director” within the meaning of Section 162(m).

(p)  “Non-Qualified Stock Option” shall mean an option granted under Section 6(a) of the Plan that is not an Incentive Stock Option.

(q)  “Option” shall mean an Incentive Stock Option or a Non-Qualified Stock Option.

(r)  “Other Stock Grant” shall mean any right granted under Section 6(f) of the Plan.

(s)  “Participant” shall mean an Eligible Person designated to be granted an Award under the Plan.

(t)  “Performance Award” shall mean any right granted under Section 6(d) of the Plan.

(u)  “Performance Goal” shall mean one or more of the following performance goals, either individually, alternatively or in any combination, applied on a corporate, subsidiary or business unit basis: revenue, cash flow, gross profit, earnings before interest and taxes, earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, and net earnings, earnings per share, margins (including one or more of gross, operating and net income margins), returns (including one or more of return on assets, equity, investment, capital and revenue and total stockholder return), stock price, economic value added, working capital, market share, cost reductions, workforce satisfaction and diversity goals, employee retention, customer satisfaction, completion of key projects, and strategic plan development and implementation. Such goals may reflect an absolute standard of entity or business unit performance or a relative comparison to the performance of a peer group of entities or other external measure of the selected performance criteria. Pursuant to rules and conditions adopted by the Committee on or before the 90th day of the applicable performance period for which Performance Goals are established, the Committee may appropriately adjust any evaluation of performance under such goals to exclude the effect of certain events, including any of the following events: asset write-downs; litigation or claim judgments or settlements; changes in tax law, accounting principles or other such laws or provisions affecting reported results; severance, contract termination and other costs related to exiting certain business activities; and gains or losses from the disposition of businesses or assets or from the early extinguishment of debt.

(v)  “Person” shall mean any individual or entity, including a corporation, partnership, limited liability company, association, joint venture or trust.

(w)  “Plan” shall mean the Best Buy Co., Inc. 2004 Omnibus Stock and Incentive Plan, as amended from time to time, the provisions of which are set forth herein.

(x)  “Restricted Stock” shall mean any Share granted under Section 6(c) of the Plan.

(y)  “Restricted Stock Unit” shall mean any unit granted under Section 6(c) of the Plan evidencing the right to receive a Share (or a cash payment equal to the Fair Market Value of a Share) at some future date.

(z)  “Rule 16b-3” shall mean Rule 16b-3 promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Exchange Act, or any successor rule or regulation.

(aa)  “Section 162(m)” shall mean Section 162(m) of the Code and the applicable Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder.

B-2



Table of Contents

(bb)  “Share” or “Shares” shall mean a share or shares of common stock, $.10 par value per share, of the Company or such other securities or property as may become subject to Awards pursuant to an adjustment made under Section 4(c) of the Plan.

(cc)  “Specified Employee” shall mean a specified employee as defined in Section 409A(a)(2)(B) of the Code.

(dd)  “Stock Appreciation Right” shall mean any right granted under Section 6(b) of the Plan.

Section 3.        Administration

(a)  Power and Authority of the Committee. The Plan shall be administered by the Committee. Subject to the express provisions of the Plan and to applicable law, the Committee shall have full power and authority to: (i) designate Participants; (ii) determine the type or types of Awards to be granted to each Participant under the Plan; (iii) determine the number of Shares to be covered by (or the method by which payments or other rights are to be determined in connection with) each Award; (iv) determine the terms and conditions of any Award or Award Agreement; (v) amend the terms and conditions of any Award or Award Agreement and accelerate the exercisability of any Option or waive any restrictions relating to any Award; (vi) determine whether, to what extent and under what circumstances Awards may be exercised in cash, Shares, other securities, other Awards or other property, or canceled, forfeited or suspended; (vii) determine whether, to what extent and under what circumstances cash, Shares, other securities, other Awards, other property and other amounts payable with respect to an Award under the Plan shall be deferred either automatically or at the election of the holder thereof or the Committee; (viii) interpret and administer the Plan and any instrument or agreement, including any Award Agreement, relating to the Plan; (ix) establish, amend, suspend or waive such rules and regulations and appoint such agents as it shall deem appropriate for the proper administration of the Plan; and (x) make any other determination and take any other action that the Committee deems necessary or desirable for the administration of the Plan. Unless otherwise expressly provided in the Plan, all designations, determinations, interpretations and other decisions under or with respect to the Plan or any Award or Award Agreement shall be within the sole discretion of the Committee, may be made at any time and shall be final, conclusive and binding upon any Eligible Person and any holder or beneficiary of any Award.

(b)  Power and Authority of the Board. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, (i) the Board may, at any time and from time to time, exercise the powers and duties of the Committee under the Plan without any further action of the Committee, unless the exercise of such powers and duties by the Board would cause the Plan not to comply with the requirements of Section 162(m); and (ii) only the Committee (or another committee of the Board comprised of directors who qualify as independent directors within the meaning of the independence rules of the New York Stock Exchange or any other securities exchange applicable to the Company) may grant Awards to Directors who are not also employees of the Company or an Affiliate.

Section 4.        Shares Available for Awards

(a)  Shares Available. Subject to adjustment as provided in Section 4(c) of the Plan, the aggregate number of Shares that may be issued under the Plan shall be 54,000,000.

(b)  Accounting for Awards. For purposes of this Section 4, if an Award entitles the holder thereof to receive or purchase Shares, the number of Shares covered by such Award or to which such Award relates shall be counted on the date of grant of such Award against the aggregate number of Shares available for granting Awards under the Plan. If an Award terminates or is forfeited or cancelled without the issuance of any Shares, or if any Shares covered by an Award or to which an Award relates are not issued for any other reason, then the number of Shares counted against the aggregate number of Shares available under the Plan with respect to such Award, to the extent of any such termination, forfeiture, cancellation or other event, shall again be available for granting Awards under the Plan. If Shares of Restricted Stock are forfeited or otherwise reacquired by the Company prior to vesting, whether or not dividends have been paid on such Shares, then the number of Shares counted against the aggregate number of Shares available under the Plan with respect to such Award of Restricted Stock, to the extent of any such forfeiture or reacquisition by the Company, shall again be available for granting Awards under the Plan. Shares that are withheld in full or partial payment to the Company of the purchase or exercise price relating to an Award or in connection with the satisfaction of tax obligations relating to an Award (other than an

B-3



Table of Contents

Incentive Stock Option) shall again be available for granting Awards under the Plan. Any previously issued Shares that are used by a Participant as full or partial payment to the Company of the purchase or exercise price relating to an Award or in connection with the satisfaction of tax obligations relating to an Award shall again be available for granting Awards under the Plan.

(c)  Adjustments. In the event that any dividend or other distribution (whether in the form of cash, Shares, other securities or other property), recapitalization, stock split, reverse stock split, reorganization, merger, consolidation, split-up, spin-off, combination, repurchase or exchange of Shares or other securities of the Company, issuance of warrants or other rights to purchase Shares or other securities of the Company or other similar corporate transaction or event affects the Shares such that an adjustment is necessary in order to prevent dilution or enlargement of the benefits or potential benefits intended to be made available under the Plan, then the Committee shall adjust any or all of (i) the number and type of Shares (or other securities or other property) that thereafter may be made the subject of Awards, (ii) the number and type of Shares (or other securities or other property) subject to outstanding Awards, (iii) the purchase price or exercise price with respect to any Award and (iv) the limitations contained in Section 4(d) of the Plan.

(d)  Award Limitations Under the Plan.

(i)        Section 162(m) Limitation for Certain Types of Awards. No Eligible Person may be granted Options, Stock Appreciation Rights or any other Award or Awards under the Plan, the value of which Award or Awards is based solely on an increase in the value of the Shares after the date of grant of such Award or Awards, for more than 1,500,000 Shares (subject to adjustment as provided in Section 4(c) of the Plan) in the aggregate in any taxable year.

(ii)       Section 162(m) Limitation for Performance Awards. If a Participant is a “covered employee” as defined under Section 162(m) (a “Covered Employee”) for any taxable year of the Participant in which a Performance Award (or portion thereof) is payable to the Participant, the maximum amount payable in the aggregate to the Participant during that year pursuant to all Performance Awards, shall be $5,000,000 in value, whether payable in cash, Shares or other property; and such amount shall be increased annually (as of each January 1st after the date of the Plan amendment in 2009) at a fixed percentage rate of 5% (the “Annual Performance Award Limit”). The Annual Performance Award Limit does not apply to any Award subject to the limitation contained in Section 4(d)(i) of the Plan.  Further, the Annual Performance Award Limit applies only to Performance Awards granted under this Plan; and shall apply to any Performance Award that was granted under this Plan before the effective date of this Section 4(d)(ii), as amended in 2009, only to the extent provided in the Award Agreement evidencing that Performance Award. Any limitations on awards granted to the Participant under any other executive incentive plan maintained by the Company (a “Non-Plan Award”) will be governed solely by the terms of such other plan; provided, however, that, if any amount is payable to the Participant during a given year under a Non-Plan Award that is subject to Code Section 409A, and the terms of the Non-Plan Award permit or require the Company or any Affiliate (or its delegate) to delay beyond that year the payment of any portion of such Non-Plan Award to comply with Section 162(m), the Company shall cause payment of such portion to be delayed for that purpose.

If the Committee reasonably anticipates, on or before any date on which a Performance Award (or portion thereof) is payable to a Participant, that the Participant will be a Covered Employee for the taxable year in which that amount is payable, the Committee will apply the Annual Performance Award Limit to that amount and any other Performance Award amount otherwise payable to the Participant during that year; provided, however, that if the Committee determines at any later time during the year that the Participant is not a Covered Employee for that year, due to a termination of employment or for any other reason, the Committee will direct payment to the Participant of any portion of a Performance Award or Performance Awards that would have been payable during that year or any prior year, but was deferred to comply with the Annual Performance Award Limit, as set forth in this Section 4(d)(ii); and such payment of deferred Performance Award amounts shall be made no later than the last day of the Participant’s first taxable year for which the Participant is not a Covered Employee, unless that payment is delayed beyond that year under Section 7(b) of this Plan, to the extent permitted by or as required to comply with Code Section 409A.

B-4



Table of Contents

(iii)      Plan Limitation on Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units, Dividend Equivalents and Other Stock Grants. No more than 20,000,000 Shares, subject to adjustment as provided in Section 4(c) of the Plan, shall be available under the Plan for issuance pursuant to grants of Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units, Dividend Equivalents paid in Shares and Other Stock Grants; provided, however, that if any Awards of Restricted Stock Units terminate or are forfeited or cancelled without the issuance of any Shares or if Shares of Restricted Stock are forfeited or otherwise reacquired by the Company prior to vesting, whether or not dividends have been paid on such Shares, then the Shares subject to such termination, forfeiture, cancellation or reacquisition by the Company shall again be available for grants of Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units and Other Stock Grants for purposes of this limitation on grants of such Awards.

(iv)      Limitation on Awards Granted to Non-Employee Directors. Directors who are not also employees of the Company or an Affiliate may not be granted Awards in the aggregate for more than 5% of the Shares available for Awards under the Plan, subject to adjustment as provided in Section 4(c) of the Plan. No Award may be made to any Director who is not also an employee of the Company or an Affiliate unless all such Directors receive an Award with the same terms and conditions; provided, however, that (i) an Award may be made to a Director who is not also an employee of the Company or an Affiliate as compensation for service on a committee of the Board, if all members of such committee receive an Award with the same terms and conditions; and (ii) an Award may be made to a Director who is not also an employee of the Company or an Affiliate upon such Director’s initial appointment to the Board.

(v)       Limitation on Incentive Stock Options. The number of Shares available for granting Incentive Stock Options under the Plan shall not exceed 54,000,000, subject to adjustment as provided in Section 4(c) of the Plan and subject to the provisions of Section 422 or 424 of the Code or any successor provision.

Section 5.         Eligibility

Any Eligible Person shall be eligible to be designated a Participant. In determining which Eligible Persons shall receive an Award and the terms of any Award, the Committee may take into account the nature of the services rendered by the respective Eligible Persons, their present and potential contributions to the success of the Company or such other factors as the Committee, in its discretion, shall deem relevant. Notwithstanding the foregoing, an Incentive Stock Option may only be granted to full-time or part-time employees (which term as used herein includes, without limitation, officers and Directors who are also employees), and an Incentive Stock Option shall not be granted to an employee of an Affiliate unless such Affiliate is also a “subsidiary corporation” of the Company within the meaning of Section 424(f) of the Code or any successor provision.

Section 6.         Awards

(a)  Options. The Committee is hereby authorized to grant Options to Eligible Persons with the following terms and conditions and with such additional terms and conditions not inconsistent with the provisions of the Plan as the Committee shall determine:

(i)           Exercise Price. The purchase price per Share purchasable under an Option shall be determined by the Committee; provided, however, that such purchase price shall not be less than 100% of the Fair Market Value of a Share on the date of grant of such Option, except that the Committee may designate a per-share exercise price below Fair Market Value on the date of grant (A) to the extent necessary or appropriate, as determined by the Committee, to satisfy applicable legal or regulatory requirements of a foreign jurisdiction; or (B) if the Option is granted in substitution for a stock option previously granted by an entity that is acquired by or merged with the Company or an Affiliate. Except as otherwise provided in Section 6(g)(viii), any Award Agreement granting an Option with a per-share exercise price below Fair Market Value shall contain provisions that are intended to allow the Option to satisfy the requirements of (or be exempt from) Code Section 409A and any applicable provisions of Section 6(g)(viii) of this Plan.

B-5



Table of Contents

(ii)           Option Term. The term of each Option shall be fixed by the Committee at the time of grant, but shall not be longer than 10 years from the date of grant.

(iii)          Time and Method of Exercise. The Committee shall determine the time or times at which an Option may be exercised in whole or in part and the method or methods by which, and the form or forms (which may include, without limitation, cash, Shares (actually or by attestation), other securities, other Awards or other property, or any combination thereof, having a Fair Market Value on the exercise date equal to the applicable exercise price) in which, payment of the exercise price with respect thereto may be made or deemed to have been made. Unless otherwise provided in the agreement evidencing the Option, any Non-Qualified Option may be exercised by instructing the Company to withhold from the Shares issuable upon exercise of the Option Shares in payment of all or any part of the exercise price and/or any related withholding obligations consistent with Section 8, which Shares shall be valued for this purpose at their Fair Market Value or in such other manner as may be authorized from time to time by the Committee.

(b)  Stock Appreciation Rights. The Committee is hereby authorized to grant Stock Appreciation Rights to Eligible Persons subject to the terms of the Plan and any applicable Award Agreement. A Stock Appreciation Right granted under the Plan shall confer on the holder thereof a right to receive upon exercise thereof the excess of (i) the Fair Market Value of one Share on the date of exercise (or, if the Committee shall so determine, at any time during a specified period before or after the date of exercise) over (ii) the grant price of the Stock Appreciation Right as determined by the Committee, which grant price shall not be less than 100% of the Fair Market Value of one Share on the date of grant of the Stock Appreciation Right; provided, however, that the Committee may designate a per-share grant price below Fair Market Value on the date of grant (A) to the extent necessary or appropriate, as determined by the Committee, to satisfy applicable legal or regulatory requirements of a foreign jurisdiction; or (B) if the Stock Appreciation Right is granted in substitution for a stock appreciation right previously granted by an entity that is acquired by or merged with the Company or an Affiliate. Except as otherwise provided in Section 6(g)(viii), any Award Agreement granting Stock Appreciation Rights with a per-share grant price below Fair Market Value shall contain provisions that are intended to allow the Stock Appreciation Rights to satisfy the requirements of (or be exempt from) Code Section 409A and any applicable provisions of Section 6(g)(viii) of this Plan. Subject to the terms of the Plan, the grant price, term, methods of exercise, dates of exercise, methods of settlement and any other terms and conditions (including conditions or restrictions on the exercise thereof) of any Stock Appreciation Right shall be as determined by the Committee.

(c)  Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units. The Committee is hereby authorized to grant Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units to Eligible Persons with the following terms and conditions and with such additional terms and conditions not inconsistent with the provisions of the Plan as the Committee shall determine:

(i)            Restrictions. Shares of Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units shall be subject to such restrictions as the Committee may impose (including, without limitation, any limitation on the right to vote a Share of Restricted Stock or the right to receive any dividend or other right or property with respect thereto), which restrictions may lapse separately or in combination at such time or times, in such installments or otherwise as the Committee may deem appropriate. The minimum vesting period of such Awards shall be three years from the date of grant, unless the Award is conditioned on performance of the Company or an Affiliate or on personal performance (other than continued service with the Company or an Affiliate), in which case the Award may vest over a period of at least one year from the date of grant.Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may permit acceleration of vesting of such Awards in the event of the Participant’s death, disability or retirement or a change in control of the Company.

(ii)           Issuance and Delivery of Shares. Any Restricted Stock granted under the Plan shall be issued at the time such Awards are granted and may be evidenced in such manner as the Committee may deem appropriate, including book-entry registration or issuance of a stock certificate or certificates, which certificate or certificates shall be held by the Company. Such certificate or certificates shall be registered in the name of the Participant and shall bear an appropriate legend referring to the restrictions applicable to such Restricted Stock. Shares representing Restricted Stock that is no longer subject to restrictions

B-6



Table of Contents

shall be delivered to the Participant promptly after the applicable restrictions lapse or are waived. In the case of Restricted Stock Units, no Shares shall be issued at the time such Awards are granted. Upon the lapse or waiver of restrictions and the restricted period relating to Restricted Stock Units evidencing the right to receive Shares, such Shares shall be issued and delivered to the holder of the Restricted Stock Units.

(iii)          Forfeiture. Except as otherwise determined by the Committee, upon a Participant’s termination of employment or resignation or removal as a Director (in either case, as determined under criteria established by the Committee) during the applicable restriction period, all Shares of Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units held by the Participant at such time subject to restriction shall be forfeited and reacquired by the Company; provided, however, that the Committee may, when it finds that a waiver would be in the best interest of the Company, waive in whole or in part any or all remaining restrictions with respect to Shares of Restricted Stock or Restricted Stock Units.

(iv)  Except as otherwise provided in Section 6(g)(viii), any Award Agreement granting Restricted Stock Units shall contain provisions that are intended to allow the Restricted Stock Units to satisfy the requirements of (or be exempt from) Code Section 409A and any applicable provisions of Section 6(g)(viii) of this Plan.

(d)  Performance Awards. The Committee is hereby authorized to grant to Eligible Persons Performance Awards which are intended to be “qualified performance-based compensation” within the meaning of Section 162(m). A Performance Award granted under the Plan may be payable in cash or in Shares (including, without limitation, Restricted Stock). Performance Awards shall, to the extent required by Section 162(m), be conditioned solely on the achievement of one or more objective Performance Goals, and such Performance Goals shall be established by the Committee within the time period prescribed by, and shall otherwise comply with the requirements of, Section 162(m). Subject to the terms of the Plan and any applicable Award Agreement, the Performance Goals to be achieved during any performance period, the length of any performance period, the amount of any Performance Award granted, the amount of any payment or transfer to be made pursuant to any Performance Award and any other terms and conditions of any Performance Award shall be determined by the Committee. The Committee shall also certify in writing that such Performance Goals have been met prior to payment of the Performance Awards to the extent required by Section 162(m). Except as otherwise provided in Section 6(g)(viii), any Award Agreement granting a Performance Award shall contain provisions that are intended to allow the Performance Award to satisfy the requirements of (or be exempt from) Code Section 409A and any applicable provisions of Section 6(g)(viii) of this Plan.

(e)  Dividend Equivalents. The Committee is hereby authorized to grant Dividend Equivalents to Eligible Persons under which the Participant shall be entitled to receive payments (in cash, Shares, other securities, other Awards or other property as determined in the discretion of the Committee) equivalent to the amount of cash dividends paid by the Company to holders of Shares with respect to a number of Shares determined by the Committee. Subject to the terms of the Plan, such Dividend Equivalents may have such terms and conditions as the Committee shall determine.

(f)  Other Stock Grants. The Committee is hereby authorized, subject to the terms of the Plan, to grant to Eligible Persons Shares without restrictions thereon as are deemed by the Committee to be consistent with the purpose of the Plan. Subject to the terms of the Plan and any applicable Award Agreement, such Other Stock Grant may have such terms and conditions as the Committee shall determine.

(g)  General.

(i)        Consideration for Awards. Awards may be granted for no cash consideration or for any cash or other consideration as determined by the Committee or required by applicable law.

(ii)       Awards May Be Granted Separately or Together. Awards may, in the discretion of the Committee, be granted either alone or in addition to, in tandem with or in substitution for any other Award or any award granted under any other plan of the Company or any Affiliate. Awards granted in addition to or in tandem with other Awards or in addition to or in tandem with awards granted under any

B-7



Table of Contents

such other plan of the Company or any Affiliate may be granted either at the same time as or at a different time from the grant of such other Awards or awards.

(iii)      Forms of Payment under Awards. Subject to the terms of the Plan and of any applicable Award Agreement, payments or transfers to be made by the Company or an Affiliate upon the grant, exercise or payment of an Award may be made in such form or forms as the Committee shall determine (including, without limitation, cash, Shares, other securities, other Awards or other property or any combination thereof); and may be made in a single payment or transfer, in installments or on a deferred basis, in each case in accordance with rules and procedures established by the Committee. Such rules and procedures may include, without limitation, provisions for the payment or crediting of reasonable interest on installment or deferred payments or the grant or crediting of Dividend Equivalents with respect to installment or deferred payments.  Except as otherwise provided in Section 6(g)(viii), any change in the timing of payment of an Award shall satisfy the requirements of (or be exempt from) Code Section 409A and any applicable provisions of Section 6(g)(viii) of this Plan.

(iv)      Limits on Transfer of Awards. Except as otherwise provided by the Committee or the terms of this Plan, no Award (other than Shares that are not Restricted Stock), and no right under any such Award, shall be transferable by a Participant either (A) for any consideration or (B) without consideration other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution. The Committee may establish procedures as it deems appropriate for a Participant to designate a Person or Persons, as beneficiary or beneficiaries, to exercise the rights of the Participant and receive any property distributable with respect to any Award in the event of the Participant’s death. The Committee, in its discretion and subject to such additional terms and conditions as it determines, may permit a Participant to transfer a Non-Qualified Stock Option to any “family member” (as such term is defined in the General Instructions to Form S-8 (or any successor to such Instructions or such Form) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended) at any time that such Participant holds such Option; provided, however, that such transfers may not be for value (as defined in the General Instructions to Form S-8, or any successor to such Instructions or such Form) and the family member may not make any subsequent transfers other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution. Each Option, Stock Appreciation Right or right under any other Award shall be exercisable during the Participant’s lifetime only by the Participant (except as provided herein or in an Award Agreement or amendment thereto relating to a Non-Qualified Stock Option) or, if permissible under applicable law, by the Participant’s guardian or legal representative. No Award or right under any such Award may be pledged, alienated, attached or otherwise encumbered, and any purported pledge, alienation, attachment or encumbrance thereof shall be void and unenforceable against the Company or any Affiliate; provided, however, that this sentence shall apply to an Other Stock Grant only to the extent provided under the terms of the Award Agreement for the Other Stock Grant.

(v)       Term of Awards. The term of each Award shall be for a period not longer than 10 years from the date of grant.

(vi)      Restrictions; Securities Exchange Listing. All Shares or other securities delivered under the Plan pursuant to any Award or the exercise thereof shall be subject to such stop transfer orders and other restrictions as the Committee may deem advisable under the Plan, applicable federal or state securities laws and regulatory requirements, and the Committee may direct appropriate stop transfer orders and cause other legends to be placed on the certificates for such Shares or other securities to reflect such restrictions. If the Shares or other securities are traded on a securities exchange, the Company shall not be required to deliver any Shares or other securities covered by an Award unless and until such Shares or other securities have been and continue to be admitted for trading on such securities exchange.

(vii)      Prohibition on Repricing. Except as provided in Section 4(c) of the Plan, no Option or Stock Appreciation Right may be amended to reduce its initial exercise or grant price and no Option or Stock Appreciation Right shall be canceled and replaced with Options or Stock Appreciation Rights or other Awards having a lower exercise or grant price, without the approval of the shareholders of the Company.

(viii)      Code Section 409A Provisions. Notwithstanding anything in the Plan or any Award Agreement

B-8



Table of Contents

to the contrary, to the extent that any amount or benefit that constitutes “deferred compensation” to a Participant under Section 409A of the Code and applicable guidance thereunder is otherwise payable or distributable to a Participant under the Plan or any Award Agreement solely by reason of the occurrence of a Change in Control or due to the Participant’s disability or separation from service, such amount or benefit will not be payable or distributable to the Participant by reason of such circumstance unless the Committee determines in good faith that (A) the circumstances giving rise to such Change in Control, disability or separation from service meet the definition of a change in ownership or control, disability or separation from service, as the case may be, in Section 409A(a)(2)(A) of the Code; or (B) the payment or distribution of such amount or benefit would be exempt from the application of Section 409A of the Code by reason of the short-term deferral exemption or otherwise. Any payment or distribution that otherwise would be made to a Participant who is a Specified Employee (as determined by the Committee in good faith) on account of separation from service may not be made before the date which is six (6) months after the date of the Specified Employee’s separation from service unless the payment or distribution is exempt from the application of Section 409A of the Code by reason of the short-term deferral exemption or otherwise. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions of this Section 6(g)(viii), Award Agreements may be written or amended in a manner that does not satisfy the requirements of Code Section 409A (or any exemption therefrom), but only if and to the extent that the Committee specifically provides in written resolutions that the Award Agreement or amendment is not intended to comply with Code Section 409A.

Section 7.         Amendment and Termination; Adjustments

(a)  Amendments to the Plan. The Board may amend, alter, suspend, discontinue or terminate the Plan at any time; provided, however, that, notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan or any Award Agreement, without the approval of the shareholders of the Company, no amendment shall be made that, absent such approval:

(i)        violates the rules or regulations of the New York Stock Exchange or any other securities exchange applicable to the Company;

(ii)       increases the number of shares authorized under the Plan as specified in Section 4(a) of the Plan;

(iii)      increases the number of shares subject to the limitations contained in Section 4(d) of the Plan;

(iv)      permits the award of Options or Stock Appreciation Rights at a price less than 100% of the Fair Market Value of a Share on the date of grant of such Option or Stock Appreciation Right, as prohibited by Sections 6(a)(i) and 6(b)(ii) of the Plan or the repricing of Options or Stock Appreciation Rights, as prohibited by Section 6(g)(vii) of the Plan;

(v)       expands the classes or categories of persons eligible to receive Awards under the Plan; or

(vi)      would cause Section 162(m) to become unavailable with respect to the Plan.

(b)  Amendments to Awards. The Committee may waive any conditions of or rights of the Company under any outstanding Award, prospectively or retroactively. Except as otherwise provided by the terms of the Plan or an Award Agreement, the Committee may not amend, alter, suspend, discontinue or terminate any outstanding Award, prospectively or retroactively, if such action would adversely affect the rights of the holder of such Award, without the consent of the Participant or holder or beneficiary thereof.  The Company intends that Awards under the Plan shall satisfy the requirements of Section 409A of the Code to avoid any adverse tax results thereunder and the Committee shall administer and interpret the Plan and all Award Agreements in a manner consistent with that intent. In this regard, if any provision of the Plan or an Award Agreement would result in adverse tax consequences under Section 409A of the Code, the Committee may amend that provision (or take any other action reasonably necessary) to avoid any adverse tax results and no action taken to comply with Section 409A of the Code shall be deemed to impair or otherwise adversely affect the rights of any holder of an Award or beneficiary thereof.

(c)  Correction of Defects, Omissions and Inconsistencies. The Committee may correct any defect, supply any

B-9



Table of Contents

omission or reconcile any inconsistency in the Plan or in any Award or Award Agreement in the manner and to the extent it shall deem desirable to implement or maintain the effectiveness of the Plan.

Section 8.        Income Tax Withholding

In order to comply with all applicable federal, state, local or foreign income tax laws or regulations, the Company may take such action as it deems appropriate to ensure that all applicable federal, state, local or foreign payroll, withholding, income or other taxes, which are the sole and absolute responsibility of a Participant, are withheld or collected from such Participant. In order to assist a Participant in paying all or a portion of applicable taxes to be withheld or collected upon exercise or receipt of (or the lapse of restrictions relating to) an Award, the Committee, in its discretion and subject to such additional terms and conditions as it may adopt, may permit the Participant to satisfy such tax obligation by (i) electing to have the Company withhold a portion of the Shares otherwise to be delivered upon exercise or receipt of (or the lapse of restrictions relating to) such Award with a Fair Market Value equal to the amount of such taxes or (ii) delivering to the Company Shares other than Shares issuable upon exercise or receipt of (or the lapse of restrictions relating to) such Award with a Fair Market Value equal to the amount of such taxes.

Section 9.        General Provisions

(a)  No Rights to Awards. No Eligible Person or other Person shall have any claim to be granted any Award under the Plan, and there is no obligation for uniformity of treatment of Eligible Persons or holders or beneficiaries of Awards under the Plan. The terms and conditions of Awards need not be the same with respect to any Participant or with respect to different Participants.

(b)  Award Agreements. No Participant will have rights under an Award granted to such Participant unless and until an Award Agreement shall have been duly executed on behalf of the Company and, if requested by the Company, signed by the Participant.

(c)  Plan Provisions Control. In the event that any provision of an Award Agreement conflicts with or is inconsistent in any respect with the terms of the Plan as set forth herein or subsequently amended, the terms of the Plan shall control.

(d)  No Rights of Shareholders. Except with respect to Shares of Restricted Stock as to which the Participant has been granted the right to vote, neither a Participant nor the Participant’s legal representative shall be, or have any of the rights and privileges of, a shareholder of the Company with respect to any Shares issuable to such Participant upon the exercise or payment of any Award, in whole or in part, unless and until such Shares have been issued.

(e)  No Limit on Other Compensation Arrangements. Nothing contained in the Plan shall prevent the Company or any Affiliate from adopting or continuing in effect other or additional compensation arrangements, and such arrangements may be either generally applicable or applicable only in specific cases.

(f)  No Right to Employment. The grant of an Award shall not be construed as giving a Participant the right to be retained as an employee of the Company or any Affiliate, or a Director to be retained as a Director, nor will it affect in any way the right of the Company or an Affiliate to terminate a Participant’s employment at any time, with or without cause. In addition, the Company or an Affiliate may at any time dismiss a Participant from employment free from any liability or any claim under the Plan or any Award, unless otherwise expressly provided in the Plan or in any Award Agreement.

(g)  Governing Law. The validity, construction and effect of the Plan or any Award, and any rules and regulations relating to the Plan or any Award, shall be determined in accordance with the internal laws, and not the law of conflicts, of the State of Minnesota.

(h)  Severability. If any provision of the Plan or any Award is or becomes or is deemed to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any jurisdiction or would disqualify the Plan or any Award under any law deemed applicable by the Committee, such provision shall be construed or deemed amended to conform to applicable laws, or if it

B-10



Table of Contents

cannot be so construed or deemed amended without, in the determination of the Committee, materially altering the purpose or intent of the Plan or the Award, such provision shall be stricken as to such jurisdiction or Award, and the remainder of the Plan or any such Award shall remain in full force and effect.

(i)  No Trust or Fund Created. Neither the Plan nor any Award shall create or be construed to create a trust or separate fund of any kind or a fiduciary relationship between the Company or any Affiliate and an Eligible Person or any other Person. To the extent that any Person acquires a right to receive payments from the Company or any Affiliate pursuant to an Award, such right shall be no greater than the right of any unsecured general creditor of the Company or any Affiliate.

(j)  No Fractional Shares. No fractional Shares shall be issued or delivered pursuant to the Plan or any Award, and the Committee shall determine whether cash shall be paid in lieu of any fractional Shares or whether such fractional Shares or any rights thereto shall be canceled, terminated or otherwise eliminated.

(k)  Headings. Headings are given to the Sections and subsections of the Plan or any Award Agreement solely as a convenience to facilitate reference. Such headings shall not be deemed in any way material or relevant to the construction or interpretation of the Plan or any provision thereof.

Section 10.     Effective Date of the Plan

The Plan became effective on April 19, 2004, upon its adoption by the Board, and wasapproved by the shareholders of the Company at the annual meeting of shareholders of the Company held on June 24, 2004.

Section 11.     Term of the Plan

The Plan shall terminate at midnight on June 23, 2014, unless terminated before then by the Board. Awards may be granted under the Plan until the Plan terminates or until all Shares available for Awards under the Plan have been purchased or acquired; provided, however, that Incentive Stock Options may not be granted following the 10-year anniversary of the Board’s adoption of the Plan on April 19, 2004. The Plan shall remain in effect as long as any Awards are outstanding.

Adopted by the Board of Directors on April 19, 2004, and approved by the shareholders of the Company on June 24, 2004.

Amended by the Board of Directors on May 1, 2007, and approved by the shareholders of the Company on June 25, 2007.

Amended by the Board of Directors on April 8, 2009, and approved by the shareholders of the Company on June [], 2009.

B-11



Table of Contents

 

AMENDED AND RESTATED


ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION

OF

BEST BUY CO., INC.

__________________


 

ARTICLE I

NAME

 

The name of this corporation shall be Best Buy Co., Inc.

 

ARTICLE II

REGISTERED OFFICE; REGISTERED AGENT

 

The registered office of this corporation is located at 100 South Fifth Street, Suite 1075, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402. Its registered agent at such address is CT Corporation System.

 

ARTICLE III

SHAREHOLDER VOTING

 

Except with respect to the election of directors, the shareholders shall take action at a meeting of shareholders by the affirmative vote of a majority of the voting power of the shares present and entitled to vote, except where a larger proportion is required by law or these Articles of Incorporation. Subject to the rights, if any, of the holders of one or more classes or series of Preferred Stock voting separately by class or series to elect directors in accordance with the terms of such Preferred Stock, each director shall be elected at a meeting of shareholders by the vote of a majority of the votes cast with respect to the director.

ARTICLE IV

CAPITAL

 

The aggregate number of shares of all classes of stock which this corporation shall have the authority to issue is One Billion Four Hundred Thousand (1,000,400,000) shares consisting of:

 

(1)           1,000,000,000 shares of Common Stock, par value of $.10 per share; and

 

(2)           400,000 shares of Preferred Stock, par value of $1.00 per share.

 

The holders of shares of Common Stock shall have one vote for each share of Common Stock held of record on each matter submitted to the holders of shares of Common Stock.

A-1



 

ARTICLE V

CLASSES AND SERIES

OF STOCK

 

The shares of the Preferred Stock may be issued from time to time by the Board of Directors in one or more series with such designations, relative rights, preferences, limitations, dividends, rights, redemption prices, liquidation prices, conversion rights, sinking or purchase fund rights or other privileges as the Board of Directors may establish, fix or determine.

 

ARTICLE VI

BOARD ACTION

WITHOUT A MEETING

 

Any action required or permitted to be taken at any meeting of the Board of Directors may be taken without a meeting by written action signed by a majority of the Board of Directors then in office, except as those matters which require shareholder approval, in which case the written action shall be signed by all members of the Board of

C-1



Table of Contents

Directors then in office.

 

ARTICLE VII

CUMULATIVE VOTING

 

No shareholder of this corporation shall be entitled to any cumulative voting rights.

 

ARTICLE VIII

PREFERENTIAL RIGHTS

 

No shareholder of this corporation shall have any preferential, pre-emptive, or other rights of subscription to any shares of any class or series of stock of this corporation allotted or sold or to be allotted or sold whether now or hereafter authorized, or to any obligations or securities convertible into any class or series of stock of this corporation.

 

ARTICLE IX

REGULATION OF CERTAIN EVENTS

 

Section 1.                Definitions. As used in this Article IX (and, in some cases, Article X, hereof) the following terms and phrases shall have the respective meanings hereinafter set forth.

 

(a)            The term “Affiliate”, used to indicate means a relationship with any specified Person shall mean any Person (except this corporation or any Person Controlled by this corporation none of the voting securities of or equity interests in which is ownedthat directly or indirectly by the specified Person or any Affiliate or Associate of the specified Person) who directly, or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, Controls, is Controlled by, or is under common Control with, thea specified Person.

 

(b)           The term “Associate”,“Associate,” when used to indicate a relationship with any specified Person, shall meanmeans any of the following:

(1)           any organization of which the Person is an officer or partner or is, directly or indirectly, the Beneficial Owner of ten percent (10%) or more of any class or series of shares entitled to vote or other equity interest; or

(2)           any trust or estate in which the Person has a substantial beneficial interest or as to which the Person serves as trustee or executor or in a similar fiduciary capacity; or

(3)           any relative or spouse of the Person, or any relative of the spouse, residing in the home of the Person.

(c)            “Beneficial Owner,” when used with respect to shares or other securities, includes, but is not limited to, any Person who, directly or indirectly, through any written or oral agreement, arrangement, relationship, understanding or otherwise, has or shares the power to vote, or direct the voting of, the shares or securities or has or shares the power to dispose of, or direct the disposition of, the shares or securities, except that:

(1)           a Person shall not be deemed the Beneficial Owner of shares or securities tendered pursuant to a tender or exchange offer made by the Person or any of the Person’s Affiliates or Associates until the tendered shares or securities are accepted for purchase or exchange; and

(2)           a Person shall not be deemed the Beneficial Owner of shares or securities with respect to which the Person has the power to vote or direct the voting arising solely from a revocable proxy given in response to a proxy solicitation required to be made and made in accordance with the applicable rules and regulations under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and is not then reportable under that act on a Schedule 13D or was within a period of five (5) years priorcomparable report, or, if this corporation is not subject to the timerules and regulations under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, would have been required to be made and would not have been reportable if this corporation had been subject to such rules and regulations.

 

A-2C-2



Table of Contents

 

determination, an officer, director, employee, partner, trustee, agent, owner“Beneficial ownership” includes, but is not limited to, the right to acquire shares or securities through the exercise of fiveoptions, warrants or rights, or the conversion of convertible securities, or otherwise. The shares or securities subject to the options, warrants, rights or conversion privileges held by a Person shall be deemed to be outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage of outstanding shares or securities of the class or series owned by the Person, but shall not be deemed to be outstanding for the purpose of computing the percentage of the class or series owned by any other Person. A Person shall be deemed the Beneficial Owner of shares and securities Beneficially Owned by any relative or spouse of the Person or any relative of the spouse, residing in the home of the Person, any trust or estate in which the Person owns ten percent (5%(10%) or more of the voting securitiestotal beneficial interest or (if not a partner) equity interests,serves as trustee or Member of the Immediate Family of, withexecutor or in a specifiedsimilar fiduciary capacity, any organization in which the Person owns ten percent (10%) or more of the equity, and any Affiliate or Associate of the specified Person.

 

(c)           A Person shall conclusively beWhen two or more Persons act or agree to act as a “Beneficial Owner”partnership, limited partnership, syndicate or other group for the purposes of acquiring, owning or voting shares or other securities of Voting Stocka corporation, all members of thisthe partnership, syndicate or other group are deemed to constitute a “Person” and to have acquired Beneficial Ownership, as of the date they first so act or agree to act together, of all shares or securities of the corporation (1) which such Person or any of its Affiliates or Associates owns legally or beneficially, directly or indirectly, (2) which such Person or any of its Affiliates or Associates has, directly or indirectly, (i) the right to acquire (whether such right is exercisable immediately or after the passage of time) pursuant to any agreement, arrangement or understanding or upon the exercise of conversion rights, exchange rights, warrants or options, or otherwise, or (ii) the right to vote pursuant to any agreement, arrangement or understanding, or otherwise, or (3) which are Beneficially Owned directly or indirectly, by any other Person with which such Person or any of its Affiliates or Associates has any agreement, arrangement or understanding for the purpose of acquiring, holding, voting or disposing of any shares of Voting Stock of this corporation.  Shares of Voting Stock of this corporation of which a Person is the Beneficial Owner shall be “Beneficially Owned” by such Person.

 

(d)           The phrase “Business Combination” shall mean means any of the following:

(1)           any merger consolidation, combination or reorganization of this corporation or aany Subsidiary of this corporation with or into(a) a Related Person or (b) any other organization (whether or not itself a Related Person)  that is, or after the merger would be, an Affiliate or Associate of a Related Person, but excluding (i) the merger of a wholly owned Subsidiary of this corporation into this corporation, (ii) the merger of two or more wholly owned Subsidiaries of this corporation, or (iii) the merger of an organization, other than a Related Person or an Affiliate or Associate of a Related Person, with a wholly owned Subsidiary of this corporation pursuant to which the surviving organization, immediately after the merger, becomes a wholly owned Subsidiary of this corporation; or

(2)           any exchange of shares or other securities of this corporation or any Subsidiary of this corporation or money or other property for shares, other securities, money or property of (a) a Related Person or (b) any other organization (whether or not itself a Related Person) that is, or after the exchange would be, an Affiliate or Associate of a Related Person, but excluding the exchange of shares of a domestic or foreign corporation, other than a Related Person or an Affiliate or Associate of a Related Person, pursuant to which the domestic or foreign corporation, immediately after the exchange, becomes a wholly owned Subsidiary of this corporation; or

(3)           any sale, lease, exchange, transfer, mortgage, pledge, transfer or other disposition (whether in one(in a single transaction or a series of transactions), other than sales of goods or services in the ordinary course of business or redemptions pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, Section 302A.671, subdivision 6, to or with a Related Person or any Affiliate or Associate of a Related Person, other than to or with this corporation or a wholly owned Subsidiary of this corporation, of assets of this corporation or any Subsidiary of this corporation (a) having an aggregate market value equal to ten percent (10%) or more of the aggregate market value of all the assets, determined on a consolidated basis, of this corporation, (b) having an aggregate market value equal to ten percent (10%) or more of the aggregate market value of all the outstanding shares of this corporation, or (c) representing ten percent (10%) or more of the earning power or net income, determined on a consolidated basis, of this corporation except a cash dividend or distribution paid or made pro rata to all shareholders of this corporation; or

(4)           the issuance or transfer by this corporation or any Subsidiary of this corporation (in a single transaction or a series of transactions) of allany shares of, or other ownership interests in, this corporation or any Substantial Part of the AssetsSubsidiary of this corporation (including without limitation any securitiesthat have an aggregate market value equal to five percent (5%) or more of a Subsidiary) orthe aggregate market value of a Subsidiaryall the outstanding shares of this corporation to a Related Person (3) any sale, lease, exchange, transfer, mortgage, pledge or other disposition (whether in one transaction or in a series of transactions) of all or any Substantial Part of the AssetsAffiliate or Associate of a Related Person, except pursuant to the exercise of warrants or rights to purchase shares offered, or a dividend or distribution paid

C-3



Table of Contents

or made, pro rata to all shareholders of this corporation other than for the purpose, directly or toindirectly, of facilitating or effecting a Subsidiary, (4)subsequent transaction that would have been a Business Combination if the issuancedividend or distribution had not been made; or

(5)           the adoption of any securitiesplan or proposal for the liquidation or dissolution of this corporation, or any reincorporation of a Subsidiarythis corporation in another state or jurisdiction, proposed by or on behalf of, or pursuant to any written or oral agreement, arrangement, relationship, understanding or otherwise with, a Related Person (5) the acquisition by this corporation or by a Subsidiary of any securities issued byAffiliate or at the requestAssociate of a Related Person, Person; or

(6)           any reclassification of securities (including without limitation any combination [reverse split] thereof)share dividend or split, reverse share split or other distribution of shares in respect of shares), recapitalization of this corporation, or any merger or consolidation of this corporation with any Subsidiary of this corporation, exchange of shares of this corporation with any Subsidiary of this corporation, or any other transaction (whether or not with or into or otherwise involving a Related Person) which, proposed by or on behalf of, or pursuant to any written or oral agreement, arrangement, relationship, understanding or otherwise with, a Related Person or any Affiliate or Associate of a Related Person, that has the effect, directly or indirectly, of increasing the percentageproportionate share of the outstanding shares of any class or series of equity securities,shares entitled to vote, or securities that are exchangeable for, convertible into, equity securities,or carry a right to acquire shares entitled to vote, of this corporation or any Subsidiary which is Beneficially Owned by a Related Person, (7) any loan or other extension of credit by this corporation that is, directly or a Subsidiary toindirectly, owned by a Related Person or any guaranteeAffiliate or Associate of a Related Person, except as a result of immaterial changes due to fractional share adjustments; or

(7) any receipt by a Related Person or any Affiliate or Associate of a Related Person of the benefit, directly or indirectly (except proportionately as a shareholder of this corporation or a Subsidiarycorporation), of any loanloans, advances, guarantees, pledges or other extension of creditfinancial assistance, or any tax credits or other tax advantages provided by any Person to a Related-Person, (8) the adoption of any plan or proposal for the dissolution, liquidation or termination ofthrough this corporation or any Subsidiary proposed by or on behalf of a Related Person, or (9) any agreement, contract or other arrangement providing for any of the foregoing transactions.this corporation.

 

(e)           The phrase “Continuing Director” shall mean (1) any member of the Board of Directors of this corporation (i) who was a member of the Board of Directors at the adjournment of the meeting at which this Article IX was approved by the shareholders of this corporation, or (ii) became a member of the Board of Directors prior to the time that any Person becomes a Related Person, and (2) any successor to a Continuing Director who is not an Affiliate, Associate or otherwise a representative of a Related Person and is nominated or elected to succeed a

A-3



Continuing Director by a majority of the remaining Continuing Directors at a meeting at which a Continuing Director Quorum is present.

(f)            The phrase “Continuing Director Quorum” shall mean a majority of those members of the Board of Directors who are Continuing Directors.

(g)            The term “Control” and all words derived therefrom shall mean the possession, directly or indirectly, of the powerspower to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of a Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract, or otherwise. A Person’s beneficial ownership of ten percent (10%) or more of the voting power of this corporation’s outstanding shares entitled to vote in the election of directors creates a presumption that the Person has control of this corporation. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a Person is not considered to have Control of this corporation if the Person holds voting power, in good faith and not for the purpose of avoiding this Article IX, as an agent, bank, broker, nominee, custodian or trustee for one or more beneficial owners who do not individually or as a group have Control of this corporation.

(f)            The term “Disinterested” describes any director of this corporation or any other individual that is neither an officer nor an employee, nor has been an officer or employee within five (5) years immediately prior to the formation of the Disinterested Committee, of this corporation or of a Related Organization of this corporation.

(g)            The phrase “Disinterested Committee” means a committee formed by the Board of Directors that is composed of (1) one or more Disinterested directors, or (2) if there are no Disinterested directors, three (3) or more Disinterested individuals.

 

(h)           The phrase “Member of the Immediate Family”, used to indicate a relationship with any specified Person, shall mean any of such Person’s spouse, parents, children, siblings, mothers-in-law, fathers-in-law, sons- in-law, daughters-in-law, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

(i)            The term “Person” shall meanmeans any individual, firm, corporation or other entity.

 

(i)            The phrase “Related Organization” of a specified corporation, means:

(1)           a parent or Subsidiary of the specified corporation; or

(2)           another Subsidiary of a parent of the specified corporation; or

(3)           a limited liability company owning, directly or indirectly, more than fifty percent (50%) of the voting power of the shares entitled to vote for directors of the specified corporation; or

C-4



Table of Contents

(4)           a limited liability company having more than fifty percent (50%) of the voting power of its membership interests entitled to vote for members of its governing body owned directly or indirectly by the specified corporation; or

(5)           a limited liability company having more than fifty percent (50%) of the voting power of its membership interests entitled to vote for members of its governing body owned directly or indirectly either (i) by a parent of the specified corporation or (ii) a limited liability company owning, directly or indirectly, more than fifty percent (50%) of the voting power of the shares entitled to vote for directors of the specified corporation; or

(6)           a corporation having more than fifty percent (50%) of the voting power of its shares entitled to vote for directors owned directly or indirectly by a limited liability company owning, directly or indirectly, more than fifty percent (50%) of the voting power of the shares entitled to vote for directors of the specified corporation.

(j)            The phrase “Related Person” shall meanmeans any Person that is (1) the Beneficial Owner, directly or indirectly, of fiveten percent (5%(10%) or more of the shares of Voting Stockvoting power of this corporation deemed to be outstanding, other than (1) any individual or trust that was the Beneficial Owner of five percent (5%) or more of suchcorporation’s outstanding shares on March 14, 1986, the estate of such individual, and any other Person that is a Beneficial Owner of five percent (5%)entitled to vote or more of such outstanding shares solely by reason of such individual, trust or estate being(2) an Affiliate or Associate of such otherthis corporation that, at any time within the four (4) year period immediately prior to the date in question, was the Beneficial Owner, directly or indirectly, of ten percent (10%) or more of the voting power of this corporation’s then outstanding shares entitled to vote; provided, however, that if a Person who has not been a Beneficial Owner of ten percent (10%) or more of the voting power of this corporation’s outstanding shares entitled to vote immediately prior to a repurchase of shares by, or recapitalization of, this corporation or similar action shall become a Beneficial Owner of ten percent (10%) or more of the voting power solely as a result of the share repurchase, recapitalization or similar action, the Person shall not be deemed to be the Beneficial Owner of ten percent (10%) or more of the voting power for purposes of the foregoing, unless:

(i)            the repurchase, recapitalization, conversion or similar action was proposed by or on behalf of, or pursuant to any agreement, arrangement, relationship, understanding or otherwise (whether or not in writing) with, the Person or any Affiliate or Associate of the Person; or

(ii)           the Person thereafter acquires Beneficial Ownership, directly or indirectly, of this corporation’s outstanding shares entitled to vote and, immediately after the acquisition, is the Beneficial Owner, directly or indirectly, of ten percent (10%) or more of the voting power of this corporation’s outstanding shares entitled to vote.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, “Related Person” does not include:

(1)           this corporation or any of its Subsidiaries;

(2)           any pension, profit-sharing,a savings, employee stock ownership, or other employee benefit plan of this corporation or any Subsidiaryof its Subsidiaries, or any trusteea fiduciary of the plan when acting in a fiduciary capacity pursuant to the plan; or other

(3)           a licensed broker/dealer or licensed underwriter who:

(i)            purchases shares of this corporation solely for purposes of resale to the public; and

(ii)           is not acting in concert with a Related Person.

For purposes of this definition, shares Beneficially Owned by a plan, or by a fiduciary of a plan pursuant to the plan, as described in (2), above, are not deemed to be Beneficially Owned by the Person who is a fiduciary of the plan.

C-5



Table of Contents

(k)           The phrase “Share Acquisition Date,” with respect to any such plan when acting in such capacity.  ForPerson, means (1) the purpose of determining whetherdate that the Person first becomes a Related Person, isor (2) if the Person becomes, on one or more dates, a Related Person, but thereafter ceases to be a Related Person, and subsequently again becomes a Related Person, the number of shares of Voting Stock of this corporation deemed to be outstanding shall include all shares of Voting Stock issuable by this corporationdate on which are Beneficially Owned by suchthe Person through application of the provisions of paragraph (c) of this Section 1, but shall not include any other shares of Voting Stock which may be issuable by this corporation to any other Person pursuant to any agreement, arrangement or understanding, or upon exercise of conversion rights, exchange rights, warrants or options, or otherwise.most recently became a Related Person.

 

(k)(l)            The term “Subsidiary” shall mean any corporationof a specified organization means an organization having more than fifty percent (50%) of any classthe voting power of equity securitiesits shares or other ownership interests entitled to vote for directors or other members of which isthe governing body of the organization owned directly, or indirectly through Related Organizations, by this corporation.

(l)            The phrase “Substantial Part of the Assets” shall mean assets individually valued at fair market value or book value, whichever is greater, equal in the aggregate to more than ten percent (10%) of the lesser of the fair market value or book value of the total assets of a Person as of the end of its most recent fiscal year ending prior to the time the determination is made.

(m)          The phrase “Voting Stock” shall mean all of the outstanding shares of capital stock of this corporation then entitled to vote for the election of directors, and each reference to a percentage majority of the shares of Voting Stock shall refer to such percentage of the voting power of all such shares voting as one class.

A-4



specified organization.

 

Section 2.                Supermajority VotesBusiness Combinations.

(a) Except as set forth in Section 34 of this Article IX, and notwithstanding any other provision seemingly to the contrary in law, these Articles of Incorporation or the By-laws of this corporation,

(1)           the affirmative this corporation may not engage in any Business Combination, or vote, of the holders of at least eighty percent (80%) of the outstanding shares of Voting Stock of this corporation; and

(2)           the affirmative vote of the holders of at least sixty-six and two-thirds percent (66-2/3%) of the outstanding shares of Voting Stockconsent or otherwise act to authorize a Subsidiary of this corporation that are Beneficially Ownedto engage in any Business Combination, with, with respect to, proposed by shareholders other than and except foror on behalf of, or pursuant to any written or oral agreement, arrangement, relationship, understanding or otherwise with, any Related Person

shall be required for the approval or authorization of any Business Combination in which this corporation isAffiliate or is intended to be a party, and such affirmative votes by shareholders shall be required notwithstanding the fact that, absent this Article IX, no vote may be required, or that the affirmative vote of the holdersAssociate of a lesser majority percentageRelated Person for a period of Voting Stock may be permitted, by law or otherwise.

(b)           Notwithstanding anything seemingly tofour (4) years following the contrary in law, these Articles of Incorporation or the By-laws of this corporation, the affirmative vote of seventy-five percent (75%) of the voting power of the entire Board of Directors shall be required with respect to the mortgage, pledge or grant of a security interest (whether in a single transaction or a series of transactions) of or in all or any Substantial Part of the Assets of this corporation or a Subsidiary to a Related Person.Person’s Share Acquisition Date.

 

Section 3.                When InapplicableProcedure. Upon receipt of a good faith, definitive written proposal relating to a Business Combination or an acquisition of shares pursuant to which a Person will become a Related Person, the Board of Directors shall promptly form a Disinterested Committee to consider and take action on the proposal.  The Disinterested Committee shall respond in writing within thirty (30) days after receipt of the proposal, setting forth its decision regarding the proposal.

 

(a)Section 4.                When Inapplicable. The provisions of Section 2 of this Article IX shall not be applicable to a Business Combination, and such Business Combination shall require only such affirmative vote as may otherwise be required by law or otherwise, if either:if:

(a)            the Business Combination or the acquisition of shares made by the Related Person on the Related Person’s Share Acquisition Date is approved before the Related Person’s Share Acquisition Date, or on the Related Person’s Share Acquisition Date but prior to the Related Person becoming a Related Person on the Related Person’s Share Acquisition Date, by the affirmative vote of a majority of the members of the Disinterested Committee; or

 

(1)(b)           the Business Combination shall have been approved by a majority of Continuing Directors at a meeting at which a Continuing Director Quorum is present; provided, however, thatwith, with respect to, the mortgage, pledge or granting of a security interest of or in all or any Substantial Part of the Assets of this corporation or a Subsidiary to a Related Person, the provisions of Section 2(a) of this Article IX shall not be applicable if such mortgage, pledge or grant of a security interest shall have been approved by seventy-five percent (75%) of the voting power of the entire Board of Directors; or

(2)           the Business Combination shall involve solely a merger or consolidation between this corporation and a Subsidiary in which a Related Person has no direct or indirect interest (other than an interest arising solely by reason of the Related Person’s interest in this corporation); provided, however, that (i) if this corporation shall not be the

A-5



surviving corporation, all shareholders of this corporation shall be entitled to receive the same amount and type of consideration in such transaction with respect to each share of each class or series of the capital stock of this corporation owned by them, (ii) as a condition precedent to consummation of such transaction, the provisions of Article IX and Article X of these Articles of Incorporation shall be continued in effect or adopted by, such surviving corporation as part of its articles or certificate of incorporation, as the case may be, and such articles or certificate shall include no provision inconsistent with the provisions of Article IX and Article X of these Articles of Incorporation, and (iii) as a condition precedent to consummation of such transaction, the provisions of Section 1 of Article III of this corporation’s By-Laws shall continue in effect or shall be adopted by such surviving corporation as part of its Bylaws, and neither such By-laws nor the articles or certificate of incorporation of the surviving corporation shall include any provision inconsistent with the provisions of Section 1 of Article III of this corporation’s By-laws.

(b)           In addition to, and not in limitation of the foregoing Subsection 3(a), the provisions of Subsection 2(a)(2) of this Article IX shall not be applicable to any merger, consolidation, combination or reorganization of this corporation with or into, or the adoption of any plan or proposal for the dissolution, liquidation or termination of this corporation proposed by or on behalf of, or pursuant to any written or oral agreement, arrangement, relationship, understanding or otherwise with any Related Person andwhose Share Acquisition Date is either before the effective date of this Article IX, or on the effective date, but prior to the effective time of this Article IX.

Section 5.                Disinterested Committee.  The Disinterested Committee shall not be subject to any such specified Business Combination shall require only such affirmative vote as may otherwise be requireddirection or control by law or otherwise, if a majority of the Continuing Directors determines, at a meeting of the Board of Directors at whichwith respect to the committee’s consideration of, or any action concerning, a Continuing Director Quorum is present, that each holderBusiness Combination or acquisition of shares of each class or series of the capital stock ofpursuant to this corporation, other than the Related Person, will receive in such Business Combination a cash consideration in an amount not less than the highest price per share (with appropriate adjustments for any stock dividends, stock splits, recapitalizations and other similar distributions or transactions) paid by the Related Person or any Affiliate or Associate of such Related Person in acquiring any shares of the capital stock of this corporation of the same class or series, whether such highest price per share was paid in cash, securities or any combination thereof.Article IX.

 

Section 4.6.                Fiduciary Duty. Nothing contained in this Article IX shall be construed to relieve any Related Person of any fiduciary obligation imposed upon it by law.

 

Section 5.7.                Powers of Board. A majority of the Continuingvoting power of the entire Board of Directors shall have the power and duty to determine at a meeting of the Board of Directors at which a Continuing Director Quorum is present, on the basis of the definitions provided in Section 1 of this Article IX and the information then known to them, whether (a) any Person is a Related Person, (b) any Person is an Affiliate or Associate of another, and (c) any Business Combination relates to a Substantial Part of the Assets of any Person, (d) any director or individual is a Continuing Director and is acting at a meeting at which a Continuing Director Quorum is or was present, and (e) the cash consideration to be received by each holder of shares of each class or series of the capital stock of this corporation meets the test expressed in Subsection 3(b) of this Article IX.Disinterested.  Any such determination made in good faith by a majority of the Continuingvoting power of the entire Board of Directors shall be conclusive and binding for all purposes of this Article IX.

 

A-6



Section 6.8.                Duties of Board. The fact that any action or transaction complies with the provisions of this Article IX shall not be construed to waive or satisfy any other requirements of law, these Articles of Incorporation or the By-laws of this corporation, or to impose any fiduciary duty, obligation or responsibility onin connection with the Boardapproval of Directors or any member thereof, to approve such action or transaction or recommend its adoption or approvalthe recommendation to the shareholders of this corporation of its adoption or approval, nor

C-6



Table of Contents

shall such compliance limit, prohibit or otherwise restrict in any manner the Board of Directors, or any member thereof, with respect to evaluations of or actions and responses taken with respect to such action or transaction. The directors of this corporation, when evaluating any Business Combination, shall, in the exercise of their judgment in determining what is in the best interests of this corporation and its shareholders, give due consideration to allAll relevant factors, including without limitation, the social and economic effects on the employees, customers, suppliers and other constituents of this corporation and its Subsidiaries and on the communities in which this corporation and its Subsidiaries operate or are located.located, may be considered when evaluating any Business Combination.

 

Section 7.9.                Amendment of Article IX. The foregoing provisions of this Article IX may be amended, altered or repealed only at a meeting of shareholders by the affirmative vote of (a) the holders of at least eightysixty-six and two-thirds percent (80%(66-2/3%) of thethis corporation’s outstanding shares of Voting Stock entitled to vote on amendments to these Articles of Incorporation; and, in addition, (b) the holders of at least sixty-six and two- thirdstwo-thirds percent (66-2/3%) of thethis corporation’s outstanding shares of Voting Stock of this corporationentitled to vote that are Beneficially Owned by shareholders other than Related Persons; provided, however, that the provisions of this Section 79 shall not apply to any such amendment, alteration or repeal that shall have been approved and recommended to the shareholders for approval by a majority of Continuing Directors at a meeting at which a Continuing Director Quorum is present.

Section 8.               Removal of Directors.  A director may be removed from office, (a) for cause, by the affirmative vote of a majority of the remaining directors, or the affirmative votevoting power of the holdersentire Board of a majority of the Voting Stock in attendance at a duly convened meeting of the shareholders; and (b) without cause, by the affirmative vote, at a meeting called for that purpose, of the holders of at least eighty percent (80%) of the outstanding shares of Voting Stock.Directors.

 

Section 9.10.              Amendment of By-Laws. The provisions of Section 1 of Article III of this corporation’s By-Laws may be amended, altered or repealed only at a meeting of shareholders, called for such purpose, by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least eightysixty-six and two-thirds percent (80%(66-2/3%) of thethis corporation’s outstanding shares of Voting Stock;entitled to vote; provided, however, that, notwithstanding the foregoing requirement, the Board of Directors may amend such Section 1 to increase the number of directors in the manner prescribed by law.

 

ARTICLE X

STOCK REPURCHASES FROM CERTAIN SHAREHOLDERS

 

Section 1.                Definitions. As used in this Article X, the following terms and phrases shall have the respective meanings hereinafter set forth.

 

(a)            The term “Affiliate” shall havehas the same meaning as provided in Subsection 1(a) of Article IX of these Articles of Incorporation.

 

A-7



(b)           The term “Associate” shall havehas the same meaning as provided in Subsection 1(b) of Article IX of these Articles of Incorporation.

 

(c)            The phrases “Beneficial Owner” and “Beneficially Owned” shall have the same meanings as provided in Subsection 1(c) of Article IX of these Articles of Incorporation.

 

(d)           The term “Person” shall havehas the same meaning as provided in Subsection 1(i) of Article IX of these Articles of Incorporation.

 

(e)            The phrase “Public Transaction” shall meanmeans any (1) purchase of voting securities offered pursuant to an effective registration statement filed pursuant to the Securities Act of 1933, or (2) open market purchase of voting securities if, in either such case, the price and other terms of sale are not negotiated by the purchaser and seller of the legal or beneficial interest in such voting securities.

 

(f)            The term “Subsidiary” shall havehas the same meaning as provided in Subsection 1(k) of Article IX of these Articles of Incorporation.

 

(g)            The phrase “Substantial Shareholder” shall meanmeans any Person or group of two or more Persons who have agreed to act together for the purpose of acquiring, holding, voting or disposing of voting securities of this corporation who, (1) individually or together with its or their Associates or Affiliates, in the aggregate, is or are the Beneficial Owner(s) of securities of this corporation, or securities convertible into securities of this corporation, representing tenfive percent (10%(5%) or more of the Voting Stock,this corporation’s outstanding shares entitled to vote, or (2) is or are assignee(s) of or has or have otherwise succeeded as, directly or indirectly, the Beneficial Owner(s) of any voting securities, or securities convertible into voting securities, of this corporation which were at any time within the three-yearthree (3) year period immediately prior to the date in question Beneficially Owned by a Substantial Shareholder or any of its Associates or Affiliates, unless such assignment or succession shall have occurred pursuant to any Public

C-7



Table of Contents

Transaction or series of Public Transactions; provided, however, that the term “Substantial Shareholder” shall not include any benefit plan or trust now or hereafter established by this corporation or any or any of its Subsidiaries for the benefit of the employees of this corporation and/or any of its Subsidiaries or any trustee, agent or other representative of any such plan or trust.

 

(h)           The phrase “Unaffiliated Director” shall meanmeans a director who is not a Substantial Shareholder, its Affiliate or Associate, or is not otherwise related thereto; provided, however, that no director shall be considered to be an Unaffiliated Director unless such director became a director of this corporation prior to the transaction or transactions in which such Substantial Shareholder or Substantial Shareholders became such, or was nominated, appointed or elected as a director of this corporation with the approval of at least two-thirds (2/3) of the Unaffiliated Directors in office at the time of such director’s nomination, appointment or election.

 

(i)            The phrase “Voting Stock” shall have the same meaning as provided in Subsection 1(m) of Article IX of these Articles of Incorporation.

A-8



Section 2.                Extraordinary Vote of Shareholders. Notwithstanding any provision seemingly to the contrary in law, these Articles of Incorporation or the By-laws of this corporation, the affirmative vote of holders of not less than eighty percent (80%) of the Voting Stocka majority of this corporation held by shareholders other than a Substantial Shareholder, or its Affiliates or Associates,corporation’s outstanding shares entitled to vote shall be required to approve the purchase or other acquisition by this corporation of shares of capital stock of this corporation if:

 

(a)            such shares of capital stock are purchased from any Substantial Shareholder, its Affiliates or Associates at a price more than one hundred and five percent (105%) of the average closing price for shares of capital stock of the same class (as the shares of capital stock being purchased from the Substantial Shareholder, its Affiliates or Associates), in the principal public market in which such shares of capital stock are actively traded, during the most recent five (5) trading days during which such shares have been traded preceding such purchase, or, if earlier, during the most recent five (5) trading days during which such shares have been traded preceding the date upon which this corporation and the Substantial Shareholder, its Affiliates or Associates enter into a binding agreement for such purchase; or if such shares are of a class or series not traded in a public market, then at a price more than one hundred and five percent (105%) of the redemption price, if any, pertaining to such shares; or, if there is no such redemption price, at a price more than one hundred and five percent (105%) of the liquidation preference, if any, pertaining to such shares; or, if there is no such liquidation preference, at a price one hundred and five percent (105%) ofmore than the price(s) paid by such Substantial Shareholder, its Affiliates or Associates in acquiring such shares, determined on a first-in, first-out basis; and

 

(b)           the Substantial Shareholder, its Affiliates or Associates has Beneficially Owned the shares of capital stock being purchased or any of them for less than three (3)two (2) years; and

 

(c)            all other holders of shares of capital stock of the same class or series are not contemporaneously afforded the opportunity to sell to this corporation or any other Person, on terms and at a price determined by a majority of the Unaffiliated Directors of this corporation to be substantially as favorable as those afforded to the Substantial Shareholder, its Affiliates or Associates, the same percentage of such shares of capital stock held by them as equals that percentage of the shares of capital stock Beneficially Owned by the Substantial Shareholder which are to be purchased from the Substantial Shareholder, its Affiliates or Associates by this corporation.

 

Section 3.                Determinations By Unaffiliated Directors. In the context of any transaction described in Section 2 of this Article X, the majority of the directors who are Unaffiliated Directors with respect to such transaction shall have the exclusive power and duty to determine, on the basis of information known to them after reasonable inquiry, whether a Person is (a) a Substantial Shareholder, (b) an Affiliate or Associate of a Substantial Shareholder, and (c) an Unaffiliated Director. Any such determination of a majority of the Unaffiliated Directors shall be final and binding in the absence of fraud or gross negligence by such Unaffiliated Directors.

 

Section 4.                Amendment of Article X. The provisions of this Article X may be amended, altered or repealed only at a meeting of shareholders by the affirmative vote of the

A-9



holders of at least eightysixty-six and two-thirds percent (80%(66-2/3%) of thethis corporation’s outstanding shares of Voting Stock entitled to vote on amendments to these Articles of Incorporation; provided, however, that the provisions of this Section 4 shall not apply to any such amendment, alteration or repeal that shall have been approved and recommended to the shareholders for approval by a majority of Unaffiliated Directors.

C-8



Table of Contents

 

ARTICLE XI

LIMITATION OF DIRECTOR LIABILITY

 

No director of the corporation shall be personally liable to the corporation or its shareholders for monetary damages for breach of fiduciary duty as a director; provided, however, that this Article XI shall not eliminate or limit the liability of a director (i) for any breach of the director’s duty of loyalty to the corporation or its shareholders, (ii) for acts or omissions not in good faith or that involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law, (iii) under Section 302A.559 or Section 80A.76 of the Minnesota Statutes, (iv) for any transaction from which the director derived an improper personal benefit, or (v) for any act or omission occurring prior to the effective date of this Article XI. If, after the effective date of this Article XI, the Minnesota Business Corporation Act is amended to authorize the further elimination or limitation of the liability of directors, then, in addition to the limitation on personal liability provided herein, the liability of a director of the corporation shall be limited to the fullest extent permitted by such amended Act. Any repeal or modification of this Article XI by the shareholders of the corporation shall be prospective only and shall not adversely affect any limitation on the personal liability of a director of the corporation existing at the time of such repeal or modification.

 

A-10



BEST BUY CO., INC.

2008 EMPLOYEE STOCK PURCHASE PLAN

The following constitute the provisions of the Best Buy Co., Inc. 2008 Employee Stock Purchase Plan (the “Plan”), as adopted by Best Buy Co., Inc. (“Best Buy”) and its Designated Subsidiaries described in Section 2 of this Plan (collectively, with Best Buy, the “Company”).

1.             Introduction.

(a)           Purpose. The purpose of the Plan is to enable the Company to obtain and retain the services of employees. In addition, the Plan provides a convenient, meaningful opportunity for eligible Employees to purchase Common Stock of Best Buy, thereby increasing participating such Employees’ personal interest in the Company’s success.

(b)           Portion of Plan to Comply with Code Section 423. The Company intends to have a portion of the Plan qualify as an “employee stock purchase plan” within the meaning of Code section 423; and intends that such portion of the Plan be treated as a separate plan. Such portion of the Plan shall, accordingly, be construed so as to extend and limit participation in a manner that is consistent with Code section 423.

(c)           Portions of Plan Not Complying with Code Section 423. Section 20 of this Plan, and any additional provisions adopted by the Committee pursuant thereto, are intended by Best Buy to allow creation of separate portions of the Plan providing for the offering of Common Stock other than through the portion of the Plan governed by Code section 423, for purchase by individuals who are either (i) generally not subject to income taxation by the United States, or (ii) employed by non-corporate Subsidiaries that are not eligible to be Designated Subsidiaries because they are described in clause (ii) of the definition of Subsidiary below.

(d)           Effect on Prior Plan. This Plan supersedes the Amended and Restated Best Buy Co, Inc. 2003 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as of the effective date of this Plan’s approval by the shareholders of Best Buy.

2.             Definitions.

(a)           “Account” means an account established pursuant to Section 6(b) and maintained on the books and records of the Company to record the amount of all remaining Contributions accumulated with respect to a Participant as a result of deductions made from such Participant’s paychecks for the purpose of purchasing Shares under the Plan.

(b)           “Applicable Laws” shall mean all applicable laws, rules, regulations and requirements, including, but not limited to, corporate and securities laws of any of the United States, United States federal securities laws, the Code, the rules of any stock exchange or quotation system on which Shares are listed or quoted; and the applicable laws, rules, regulations and requirements of any other country or jurisdiction where Options are granted under the Plan or where Employees reside or provide services, as such laws, rules, regulations and requirements shall be in effect from time to time.

(c)           “Best Buy means Best Buy Co., Inc., a Minnesota corporation.

B-1



(d)           “Board” means the Board of Directors of Best Buy.

(e)           “Business Day means any day (other than a Saturday or Sunday) on which the New York Stock Exchange is permitted to be open for trading.

(f)            “Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended from time to time.

(g)           “Commencement Date” means the first calendar day of each Contribution Period of the Plan.

(h)           “Committee” means the Compensation and Human Resources Committee of the Board, or any successor committee of the Board with similar responsibilities; provided, however, that the Board shall have the power to take any action that may be taken by the Committee under this Plan, except to the extent such action would not comply with any Applicable Laws.

(i)            “Common Stock” means the Common Stock, par value $.10 per share, of Best Buy.

(j)            “Company means collectively, Best Buy and the Designated Subsidiaries (but only while a Designated Subsidiary is so designated.

(k)           “Compensation” means total cash compensation received by a Participant from the Company. Compensation shall be limited to amounts received by a Participant during the period he or she is participating in the Plan and includes salary, wages, overtime premiums, bonuses and other incentive payments, amounts contributed by the Participant to any benefit plan maintained by the Company (including any Code section 125 plan, Code section 401(k) plan or any other deferred compensation plan), overtime pay, commissions, draws against commissions, shift differentials, sick pay, vacation pay, holiday pay, and shutdown pay, except to the extent that the exclusion of any such item (or a subset of any such items) is specifically directed by the Plan Administrator for all Participants in a manner that does not violate Code section 423. “Compensation” does not include any remuneration paid in a form other than cash, fringe benefits (including car allowances, tuition assistance and relocation payments), employee discounts, expense reimbursement or allowances, long-term disability payments, workers’ compensation payments, welfare benefits, and any contributions that the Company or any other Subsidiary makes to any benefit plan (including any 401(k) plan or any other welfare or retirement plan), nor income realized as a result of participation in any stock option, restricted stock, stock purchase or similar plans of the Company or any other Subsidiary.

(l)            “Continuous Status as an Employee” means, with respect to an Employee, a period of employment by the Company without any interruption or termination of his or her service as an Employee of the Company. Continuous Status as an Employee shall not be considered interrupted in the case of (i) medical leave; (ii) leave allowed under the Family and Medical Leave Act; (iii) personal leave; (iv) military leave; (v) jury duty; (vi) any other leave of absence approved by the Plan Administrator’ provided, however, that such leave does not exceed the respective time period designated by Company policy, unless re-employment upon the expiration of such leave is guaranteed by contract or statute, or unless provided otherwise pursuant to Company policy adopted from time to time; or (vii)  transfers between locations of the Company, between Best Buy and any of the Designated Subsidiaries, or between any of the Designated Subsidiaries. See the definition of “Employee” for the effect of any Designated Subsidiary ceasing to be a Designated Subsidiary.

B-2



(m)          “Contribution Period” means any period of six consecutive months specified in Section 4(a), which shall be subject to change pursuant to Section 4(b); provided, however, that no Contribution Period shall exceed 27 months.

(n)           “Contributions” means all amounts credited to the Account of a Participant pursuant to the Plan.

(o)           “Designated Subsidiaries” means all Subsidiaries that are either corporations described in clause (i) of the definition of Subsidiary below, or are treated as corporations under the Code as described in clause (iii) of that definition; and in either case have been designated by the Committee from time to time in its sole discretion as employers that are eligible to participate in the portion of the Plan that is subject to Code section 423. This definition of Designated Subsidiaries shall be interpreted consistently with Code section 424(f).

(p)           “Employee” means any individual who is a common-law employee of the Company for purposes of tax withholding under Code section 3401(c), including an officer or director who is also such an employee, but excluding any individual whose customary employment is (i) less than 20 hours per week or (ii) for not more than 5 months in any calendar year. If the Committee determines that any Designated Subsidiary shall no longer be a Designated Subsidiary, or a Designated Subsidiary ceases to be a Designated Subsidiary because it is no longer a Subsidiary, the employees of such Designated Subsidiary shall automatically cease to be Employees or Participants as of the effective date of such event.

(q)           “ESPP Broker” means the licensed broker-dealer or other financial services firm designated from time to time by the Plan Administrator in accordance with Section 9(a) to assist in administering this Plan.

(r)            “Exchange Act” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

(s)           “Fair Market Value” means, with respect to the Common Stock on a given date, the last reported sale price for the Common Stock for such date, or if such date is not a Business Day, the last reported sale price for the Common Stock for the last Business Day preceding such date, as quoted on the New York Stock Exchange; provided, however, that if the Common Stock ceases to be listed for trading on the New York Stock Exchange or another exchange, “Fair Market Value” of the Common Stock for a given date shall mean the value determined in good faith by the Committee.

(t)            “New Purchase Date” shall have the meaning set forth in Section 13(d).

(u)           “Option” shall mean a right granted to a Participant under Section 7, as of the Commencement Date of a Contribution Period, to purchase Shares as of the Purchase Date in that Contribution Period.

(v)           “Participant” means any Employee who is eligible and has elected to participate in the Plan accordance with Sections 3 and 5; and who has not withdrawn from the Plan or whose participation in the Plan is not otherwise terminated.

(w)          “Plan” means this Best Buy Co., Inc. 2008 Employee Stock Purchase Plan, as it may be amended from time to time.

(x)            “Plan Administrator” means the Committee, or if and to the extent the Committee designates one or more employees of the Company to administer the Plan in accordance with Section 14,

B-3



such employee(s) shall be the Plan Administrator; provided, however, that, notwithstanding any such delegation, the Committee shall have the power to take any action that may be taken by the Plan Administrator under this Plan, except to the extent such action would not comply with any Applicable Laws.

(y)           “Purchase Date” means the last calendar day of each Contribution Period of the Plan.

(z)            “Purchase Price” means, with respect to a Contribution Period, an amount equal to 85% of the Fair Market Value of a Share on the Commencement Date or on the Purchase Date, whichever is lower.

(aa)         “Reserves” means the sum of (i) the number of Shares covered by Options granted under the Plan that have not yet been exercised and (ii) the number of Shares that have been authorized for issuance under the Plan but have not yet been placed under an Option.

(bb)         “Share” means a share of Common Stock, as adjusted in accordance with Section 12.

(cc)         “Subsidiary” means any of the following entities:

(i)            a corporation, domestic or foreign, of which not less than 50% of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock is held by Best Buy or any such corporate subsidiary of Best Buy, whether or not such corporation now exists or is hereafter organized or acquired by Best Buy or another such subsidiary of Best Buy;

(ii)           an unincorporated business entity, domestic or foreign, such as a limited liability company or partnership, in which Best Buy or another Subsidiary holds directly or indirectly not less than 50% of the total combined voting power with respect to all classes of equity ownership of such entity; or

(iii)          an unincorporated business entity described in the preceding clause (ii) that either (A) has duly elected under applicable Treasury Regulations to be an association treated as a corporation for United States federal income tax purposes, and such election continues in effect; or (B) is disregarded as a separate entity for United States federal income tax purposes, has not made an election described in the preceding clause (A) and, pursuant to applicable Treasury Regulations, its assets are considered to be owned by Best Buy or another Subsidiary that is a corporation or is treated as one under the preceding clause (A); whether or not such unincorporated business entity now exists or is hereafter organized or acquired by Best Buy or another Subsidiary of Best Buy.

3.             Eligibility.

(a)           Eligible Employees. Any individual who is an Employee, immediately after he or she has completed 60 calendar days of Continuous Status as an Employee, shall become eligible to participate in the Plan on the first day of the month coincident with or next following completion of such period of service, subject to the requirements of the following paragraph (b), Sections 5(a) and 11, and the limitations imposed by Code section 423(b). Except as otherwise provided in the following paragraph (b), each Employee who is eligible to participate in this Plan shall have the same rights and privileges under the Plan.

B-4



(b)           Limitations on Option Grants to Eligible Employees. Notwithstanding any contrary provisions of the Plan, no Employee shall be granted an Option under the Plan (except for Options granted under any portion of the Plan not intended to be subject to the requirements of Code section 423):

(i)            if, immediately after the grant, such Employee (together with any other person whose Best Buy stock would be attributed to such Employee pursuant to section 424(d) of the Code) would own capital stock of Best Buy or of any Subsidiary that is a corporation (or is treated as one under the Code) and/or hold outstanding options to purchase stock possessing in the aggregate 5% or more of the total combined voting power or value of all classes of issued and outstanding stock of Best Buy or of any such Subsidiary; or

(ii)           if such Option would permit his or her rights to purchase stock under all employee stock purchase plans (described in section 423 of the Code) of Best Buy or of any Subsidiary that is a corporation (or is treated as one under the Code) to accrue at a rate that exceeds $25,000 of the Fair Market Value of such stock (determined at the time such Option is granted), or that exceeds 10,000 Shares, for each calendar year in which such Option is outstanding at any time.

Without limiting the Committee’s authority under Section 19, it shall have the power to amend the Plan by changing the conditions for eligibility to participate in the Plan with respect to future grants of Options, without shareholder approval, if such change is announced at least 20 Business Days before the next Commencement Date on which Options are to be granted, and only if such eligibility conditions comply with the requirements of Code section 423(b)(4).

4.             Contribution Periods.

(a)           Initial Contribution Periods. Subject to the following paragraph (b), the Plan shall be implemented by a series of consecutive Contribution Periods commencing on the first Friday of April and October each year and ending on the Thursday preceding the first Friday of the following October and April, respectively. The first Contribution Period under this Plan shall commence on October 3, 2008, and shall end on April 2, 2009. The Plan shall continue until terminated in accordance with Section 13 or Section 19.

(b)           Changes. The Committee shall have the power to change the duration and/or frequency of Contribution Periods with respect to future purchases of Shares, without shareholder approval, if such change is announced to all Employees who are eligible under Section 3 at least five Business Days before the Commencement Date of the first Contribution Period to be affected by the change; provided, however, however, that no Contribution Period shall exceed 27 months.

5.             Participation.

(a)           Enrollment Process. An eligible Employee may become a Participant by following the established enrollment procedure as directed by the Plan Administrator, or any other entity designated by the Plan Administrator, before the Commencement Date of the applicable Contribution Period, unless an earlier or later time for completing the enrollment procedure is set by the Plan Administrator for all eligible Employees with respect to a given Contribution Period. Each eligible Employee who elects to participate for a Contribution Period shall determine the percentage of his or her future Compensation, subject to the limits in Sections 3(b)(ii) and 6(a), to be deducted from his or her paychecks after the Commencement Date for that Contribution Period and allocated to his or her Account as Contributions pursuant to the Plan.

(b)           Payroll Contributions. Any such payroll deductions for a Contribution Period shall commence from the first payroll following its Commencement Date and shall end on the last payroll

B-5



paid on or before the Purchase Date of the Contribution Period, unless sooner terminated as provided in Section 10. A Participant who has elected to participate during a Contribution Period shall automatically participate in future Contribution Periods at the same rate of Contributions until the Participant’s rate of Contributions is changed pursuant to Section 6, or the Participant withdraws from the Plan or ceases to be an Employee as provided in Section 10.

6.             Method of Payment of Contributions.

(a)           Contribution Amounts. Subject to the limitations of Sections 3(b) and 11, a Participant shall elect to have Contributions made as payroll deductions on each payday during the Contribution Period in any percentage of his or her Compensation that is not less than 1% and not more than 20% (or such other maximum percentage as the Committee may establish from time to time before any Commencement Date) of such Participant’s Compensation on each payday during the Contribution Period. Contribution amounts shall be withheld in whole percentages only.

(b)           Accounts. Accounts will be maintained for each Participant in the Plan. All payroll deductions made by a Participant as Contributions shall be credited to his or her Account. A Participant may not make any additional payments into his or her Account. A Participant’s Account balance shall remain the property of the Participant at all times, subject to the limitations of Sections 16 and 17, but the funds deducted from his or her paychecks may be commingled with the general funds of the Company, except to the extent such commingling may be prohibited by any Applicable Laws. No interest shall accrue on the Contributions or the Account balance of a Participant in the Plan, unless otherwise determined necessary by the Plan Administrator for the Accounts of Participants in the portion of the Plan that is not intended to qualify under Code section 423.

(c)           Contribution Changes by a Participant.

(i)            A Participant may discontinue his or her participation in the Plan as provided in Section 10.

(ii)           Unless otherwise provided by the Plan Administrator, a Participant may decrease the rate of his or her Contributions once during a Contribution Period by following the established administrative procedures as directed by the Plan Administrator to authorize a decrease in the payroll deduction rate. The decrease in rate shall be effective as soon as administratively feasible following the date the rate change election is received by the Company or any other entity designated by the Plan Administrator. However, any decrease in a Participant’s rate of Contributions for a Contribution Period must be made at least 20 Business Days before the end of the Contribution Period, or it will not be effective until the next following Contribution Period.

(iii)          Unless otherwise provided by the Plan Administrator, a Participant may not increase the rate of his or her Contributions during a Contribution Period. A Participant may only increase the rate of his or her Contributions with respect to a future Contribution Period by following the established administrative procedures as directed by the Plan Administrator to authorize an increase in the payroll deduction rate of Contributions. Any such rate increase shall be effective as of the Commencement Date of the next Contribution Period following a reasonable period (set by the Plan Administrator) after the date of its receipt by the Company, or any other entity designated by the Plan Administrator.

(d)           Contribution Changes by the Company. Notwithstanding the foregoing, to the extent necessary to comply with Section 3(b), Section 11 and Code section 423(b)(8), the Plan Administrator may in its sole discretion direct the Company to reduce a Participant’s payroll deductions for Contributions

B-6



during any Contribution Period. If that occurs, any such Participant’s payroll deductions shall re-commence, at the Contributions rate provided in the Participant’s most recently submitted enrollment materials, at the beginning of the first Contribution Period that is scheduled to end in the next succeeding calendar year, unless any such limit continues to apply in that Contribution Period or the Participant terminates his or her payroll deductions as provided in Section 10.

7.             Grant of Options. On the Commencement Date of each Contribution Period, each eligible Employee participating in such Contribution Period shall be granted the right and option to purchase (an “Option”), on the next Purchase Date, a number of Shares determined by dividing (a) such Employee’s Contributions accumulated before such Purchase Date and retained in the Participant’s Account as of the Purchase Date, by (b) the applicable Purchase Price, subject to the limitations set forth in Sections 3(b) and 11.

No Participant shall have any interest or voting right in Shares covered by any Option granted to him or her under this Plan until the Option has been exercised.

8.             Exercise of Options. Unless a Participant withdraws from the Plan or ceases to be an eligible Employee as provided in Sections 3 and Section 10, his or her Option for a Contribution Period shall be exercised automatically on the Purchase Date of the Contribution Period; and the maximum number of Shares (which may include a fractional Share) subject to the Option will be purchased at the applicable Purchase Price with the accumulated Contributions remaining in his or her Account. The Shares purchased upon exercise of an Option hereunder shall be deemed to be transferred to the Participant on the Purchase Date. During a Participant’s lifetime, his or her Options shall be exercisable only by the Participant; and shall not be exercisable after his or her death.

9.             Delivery of Shares, Holding Periods and Dividends.

(a)           Delivery of Shares to ESPP Broker. As promptly as practicable after the Purchase Date of each Contribution Period, the number of Shares purchased by each Participant upon exercise of his or her Option shall be issued by Best Buy and deposited into a brokerage account established in the Participant’s name with the ESPP Broker, for and on behalf of the Participant, in accordance with procedures established from time to time by the Plan Administrator. The terms of such ESPP Broker account shall be at the sole discretion of the Plan Administrator; and a Participant’s participation in the Plan is expressly conditioned on his or her acceptance of such terms.

(b)           Conditions Preceding Issuance of Shares. Shares shall not be issued with respect to an Option unless the exercise of the Option and the issuance and delivery of such Shares pursuant thereto shall comply with all Applicable Laws, including, without limitation, the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the Exchange Act, the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder, applicable state securities laws and the requirements of any stock exchange upon which the Shares may then be listed, and shall be further subject to the approval of counsel for Best Buy with respect to such compliance. As a further condition to the exercise of an Option, Best Buy may require the Participant exercising the Option to represent and warrant at the time of any such exercise that the Shares are being purchased only for investment and without any present intention to sell or distribute such Shares if, in the opinion of counsel Best Buy, such a representation is required by any of the Applicable Laws mentioned above.

(c)           Disposition of Shares; Holding Period under Code Section 423. Any ESPP Broker account established to hold a Participant’s Shares shall be titled solely in the name of the Participant, unless the Participant is notified by the Plan Administrator that the account may be titled or re-titled jointly with another person, consistent with the policies of the ESPP Broker and Applicable Law. The Participant

B-7



may dispose of the Shares in his or her ESPP Broker account at any time, whether by sale, exchange, gift or other transfer of title, in which case applicable transaction fees will be charged. However, in the absence of such disposition or a transfer upon the Participant’s death pursuant to Section 15, the Shares must remain in the Participant’s ESPP Broker account for a period of at least 18 months from the Purchase Date for those Shares, regardless of the Participant’s Continuous Status as an Employee. After such time, the Participant, at his or her option, may elect to (i) keep the Shares in the ESPP Broker account; (ii) receive a stock certificate, at no charge, evidencing all or some of the Shares credited to the Participant’s ESPP Broker account; (iii) request a DRS transfer (book entry registration without a certificate) or (iv) transfer, at the Participant’s expense, all or some of the Shares credited to the Participant’s ESPP Broker account to an account with another broker chosen by the Participant.

However, any Participant who is not subject to United States taxation may, at any time and without regard to the 18-month holding period specified in the preceding paragraph for any Shares, move any of his or her Shares from his or her ESPP Broker account to an account with another broker chosen by the Participant, or request that a certificate representing the Shares be issued and delivered to the Participant.

(d)           Other Holding Periods. The Committee shall have the sole and absolute discretion to impose a minimum holding period on Shares purchased under this Plan, during which each Participant’s right to transfer or otherwise dispose of Shares will be restricted for a specified period of time. Any such holding period may be imposed or increased only for Shares purchased during Contribution Periods that begin after all eligible Employees have been given notice of the new or increased holding period, which notice shall be given at least five Business Days before the Commencement Date of the first Contribution Period in which Shares that will be subject to such new or increased holding period may be purchased.

(e)           Dividends. Dividends paid in the form of cash, Shares or other non-cash consideration with respect to the Common Stock in a Participant’s ESPP Broker account established under this Section 9 shall be credited to such ESPP Broker account. However, if a Participant holding Shares in any ESPP Broker account is subject to United States withholding taxes on any dividends payable with respect to the Shares, all cash dividends payable on those Shares shall be paid by Best Buy net of the applicable United States withholding taxes on such dividends, which taxes shall be withheld by Best Buy and paid to the appropriate United States tax authorities. The Company or any other Subsidiary employing each Participant shall annually notify the Participant, as part of its periodic reporting obligations under Applicable Laws, of the amount of such withholding applicable to dividends on the Participant’s Shares in an ESPP Broker account, in order to enable the Participant to apply for any applicable tax credit in each country in which the Participant is subject to taxes on such dividends.

10.           Voluntary Withdrawal; End of Employee Status.

(a)           Withdrawal. A Participant may withdraw from the Plan by following the established administrative procedures as directed by the Plan Administrator, or other entity designated by the Plan Administrator. The withdrawal request will be effective as soon as administratively feasible. However, any withdrawal request must be made at least 20 Business Days before the end of a Contribution Period, or such withdrawal request shall not be effective until the next following Contribution Period. If a withdrawal request is effective during a Contribution Period, all of the Participant’s Contributions credited to his or her Account for that Contribution Period will be paid to him or her, his or her Option granted for that Contribution Period will be automatically terminated, and the Participant may not make any further Contributions for the purchase of Shares until he or she re-enrolls. Upon withdrawal from the Plan , a Participant may not re-enroll in the Plan until the next Contribution Period after the Contribution Period in which the withdrawal was effective. In order to re-enroll, a Participant must follow the procedures described in Section 5(a).

B-8



(b)           End of Employee Status. Upon termination of the Participant’s Continuous Status as an Employee before the Purchase Date of a Contribution Period for any reason including his or her death or retirement, or if the Participant remains employed by a Subsidiary that ceases to be a Designated Subsidiary before that Purchase Date, the Contributions credited to his or her Account for that Contribution Period will be returned to him or her or, in the case of his or her death, to the person or persons entitled thereto under Section 15; and his or her Option for that Contribution Period will be automatically terminated. Whether the Participant’s Continuous Status as an Employee has been terminated shall be determined by the Plan Administrator in its sole discretion.

(c)           Other Plans. A Participant’s withdrawal from the Plan shall not have any effect upon his or her eligibility to participate in any similar plan that may hereafter be adopted by the Company or any other Subsidiary.

11.           Limit on Shares Available under this Plan.

(a)           Maximum Number. Subject to adjustment as provided in Section 12, the maximum number of Shares that may be offered and issued under the Plan shall be 5,000,000 Shares. If any Option granted under the Plan shall for any reason terminate without having been exercised, at a time when such maximum number of Shares has not been reached, the Shares not purchased under such Option shall again become available for offering and issuance under the Plan.

(b)           Application of Limit. If the Plan Administrator determines that, on a given Purchase Date, the number of Shares with respect to which Options are to be exercised will exceed (i) the number of Shares that were available for sale under the Plan on the Commencement Date of the applicable Contribution Period, or (ii) the number of Shares available for sale under the Plan on such Purchase Date, the Plan Administrator may in its sole discretion provide that the Company shall make a pro rata allocation of the Shares available for purchase on such Commencement Date or Purchase Date, as applicable, in as uniform a manner as shall be practicable and as it shall determine in its sole discretion to be equitable among all Participants on such Purchase Date. If such event occurs at the beginning of a Contribution Period, the Company shall appropriately reduce the payroll deductions to be made pursuant to the Participants’ authorizations for that Contribution Period, and the Company shall give notice of such reduction to each Participant affected thereby. If such event occurs at the end of a Contribution Period, the Company shall refund to each affected Participant any Contributions made for that Contribution Period that cannot be used to purchase Shares.

12.           Adjustments Upon Changes in Capitalization.

(a)           Adjustments. Subject to any required action by the shareholders of Best Buy, and subject to Section 13, upon (or, as may be necessary to effect the adjustment, immediately prior to) a stock split, reverse stock split, stock dividend, combination or reclassification of the Common Stock (including any such change in the number of Shares effected in connection with a change in domicile of Best Buy), a merger, consolidation or reorganization or any spin-off, split-up, or similar extraordinary dividend distribution in respect of the Common Stock, or an exchange of Common Stock or other securities of Best Buy, or any similar, unusual or extraordinary corporate transaction in respect of the Common Stock, the Committee shall equitably and proportionately adjust (i) the number of Shares constituting the Reserves, as well as the maximum number of Shares that may be purchased by a Participant in a calendar year pursuant to Section 3(b)(ii); (ii) the maximum number of Shares set forth in Section 11; (iii) the price per Share covered by each Option that has not yet been exercised; and/or (iv) the securities, cash or other property deliverable upon exercise or payment of any outstanding Options, in each case to the extent necessary to preserve (but not increase) the level of incentives intended by the Plan and the then-outstanding Options and otherwise to

B-9



account for the effects of the transaction. The Committee’s determination with respect to the adjustment shall be final, binding and conclusive. Except as expressly provided herein, no issue by Best Buy of shares of stock of any class, or securities convertible into shares of stock of any class, shall affect, and no adjustment by reason thereof shall be made with respect to, the number or price of Shares reserved hereunder or subject to an Option hereunder.

(b)           Compliance with Applicable Laws. It is intended that, if possible, any adjustments contemplated by the preceding paragraph be made in a manner that satisfies Applicable Laws (including, without limitation and as applicable in the circumstances, Code sections 424 and 409A) and accounting requirements (so as to not trigger any charge to earnings with respect to such adjustment).

(c)           Authority of Committee. Without limiting the generality of Section 14, any good faith determination by the Committee as to whether an adjustment is required in the circumstances pursuant to this Section 12, and the extent and nature of any such adjustment, shall be conclusive and binding on all persons.

13.           Effect of Sale, Merger or Liquidation.   If either (a) Best Buy or its shareholders enter into an agreement to dispose of all or substantially all of the assets or outstanding capital stock of Best Buy by means of a sale, merger or reorganization in which Best Buy will not be the surviving corporation (other than a reorganization effected primarily to change the state in which Best Buy is incorporated, a merger or consolidation with a wholly-owned Subsidiary that is a corporation (or is treated as one under the Code), or any other transaction in which there is no substantial change in the shareholders of Best Buy or their relative stock holdings, regardless of whether Best Buy is the surviving corporation) or (b) Best Buy is liquidated, then the Contribution Period in progress at the time of such transaction or liquidation shall be shortened and a new Purchase Date shall be set (the “New Purchase Date”), as of which date the Contribution Period then in progress will terminate. The New Purchase Date shall be on or before the date of consummation of such transaction or liquidation, and the Plan Administrator shall notify each Participant in writing, at least 10 Business Days before the New Purchase Date, that the Purchase Date for his or her Option has been changed to the New Purchase Date and that his or her Option will be exercised automatically on the New Purchase Date, unless before such date, the Participant has withdrawn from the Plan for that Contribution Period as provided in Section 10.

14.           Administration. The Plan Administrator shall supervise and administer the Plan and shall have full power to adopt, amend and rescind any rules deemed desirable and appropriate for the administration of the Plan and not inconsistent with the Plan, to construe and interpret the Plan, and to make all other determinations necessary or advisable for the administration of the Plan. The Plan Administrator may delegate ministerial duties to such of the Company’s other employees, outside entities and outside professionals as the Plan Administrator so determines.

15.           Death of Participant. If Participant dies, the Company shall deliver any Shares and cash in the Participant’s Account to the executor or administrator of the estate of the Participant, or if no such executor or administrator has been appointed (to the knowledge of the Company), the Company, in its discretion, may deliver such Shares and/or cash to the spouse or to any one or more dependents or relatives of the Participant, or if no spouse, dependent or relative is known to the Company, then to such other person as the Company may designate.

16.           Transferability. Neither Contributions credited to a Participant’s Account nor any rights with regard to the exercise of an Option may be assigned, transferred, pledged or otherwise disposed of in any way (other than as provided in Section 15) by the Participant or any person entitled to the Account balance or such rights under Section 15. Any such attempt at assignment, transfer, pledge or other

B-10



disposition shall be without effect, except that the Company may treat such act as an election to withdraw the Account balance in accordance with Section 10. Furthermore, no balance in a Participant’s Account or Shares that have not been delivered shall be subject to any debts, contracts, liabilities, engagements or torts of the Participant or any person entitled to the Account balance or such Shares under Section 15.

17.           Use of Funds. All Contributions received or held by the Company under the Plan may be used by the Company for any corporate purpose; and the Company shall not be obligated to segregate such Contributions. The Plan is unfunded and shall not create nor be construed to create a trust or separate fund of any kind or a fiduciary relationship among the Company, the Board, the Committee, the Plan Administrator and any Participant. To the extent a Participant acquires a right to receive payment from the Company pursuant to the Plan, such right shall be no greater than the right of any unsecured general creditor of the Company.

18.           Reports. Account statements will be made available (at times directed by the Plan Administrator) to participating Employees by the Company and/or the ESPP Broker. For each Contribution Period, those statements will set forth the amounts of Contributions, the per Share Purchase Price, the number of Shares purchased, the remaining Account balance, if any, and the balance of any ESPP Broker account.

19.           Amendment or Termination of Plan.

(a)           General Authority of Committee. The Committee may at any time terminate the Plan, or may from time to time amend the Plan in any manner it deems necessary or advisable; provided, however, that no such action shall adversely affect any Options then outstanding under the Plan unless such action is required to comply with Applicable Laws; and provided, further, that no such action of the Board shall be effective without the approval of Best Buy’s shareholders if such approval is required by Applicable Laws. Upon the termination of the Plan, any balance in a Participant’s Account shall be refunded to him or her as soon as practicable thereafter, unless the Committee terminates the Plan on a Purchase Date or by the Committee’s setting a New Purchase Date with respect to a Contribution Period then in progress.

(b)           Administrative Amendments and Similar Actions. Without shareholder approval and without regard to whether any Participant rights may be considered to have been adversely affected, the Committee shall be entitled to change the Contribution Periods, limit the frequency and/or number of changes in the amount deducted during a Contribution Period, establish the exchange ratio applicable to amounts deducted in a currency other than United States dollars, permit payroll deductions in excess of the amount designated by a Participant in order to adjust for delays or mistakes in the Company’s processing of properly completed payroll deduction elections, establish reasonable waiting and adjustment periods and/or accounting and crediting procedures to ensure that amounts applied toward the purchase of Common Stock for each Participant properly correspond with amounts deducted from the Participant’s Compensation, and establish such other limitations or procedures as the Committee determines in its sole discretion to be advisable and consistent with the Plan.

(c)           Exhaustion of Reserves. The Plan shall automatically terminate on the date when all of the Shares that were reserved under Section 11 for issuance under this Plan have been purchased by Participants under the Plan.

20.           International Participants and Employees of Non-corporate Subsidiaries.

(a)           Adoption of Special Provisions by Certain Subsidiaries. The Committee shall have the power and authority to allow any of Best Buy’s Subsidiaries other than Designated Subsidiaries to

B-11



adopt and join in one of the following portions of this Plan that is not intended to comply with Code section 423, as described in Section 1(c):

(i)            A portion for employees of any such Subsidiary who are generally not subject to income taxation by the United States (the “Non-U.S. Portion”), or

(ii)           A portion for employees who are employed by any non-corporate Subsidiary that is not eligible to be a Designated Subsidiary because it is described in clause (ii) of the definition of Subsidiary (the “Non-corporate Portion”).

(b)           Terms and Conditions for Any Non-U.S. Portion of the Plan. If the Committee allows any Subsidiary other than a Designated Subsidiary to adopt the Non-U.S. Portion of the Plan, the Committee may allow certain employees of such Subsidiaries who work or reside outside of the United States an opportunity to acquire Shares in accordance with such special terms and conditions as the Committee may adopt from time to time, which terms and conditions may modify the terms and conditions set forth elsewhere in this Plan, with respect to such employees, to the extent permitted under the following paragraph (d). Without limiting the authority of the Committee, the special terms and conditions that may be adopted with respect to any foreign country need not be the same for all foreign countries; and may include but are not limited to the right to participate, procedures for elections to participate, the payment of any interest with respect to amounts received from or credited to Accounts held for the benefit of such employees who elect to participate, the purchase price of any Shares to be acquired, the length of any Contribution Period, the maximum amount of contributions, credits or Shares that may be acquired by any such participating employees, and a participating employee’s rights in the event of his or her death, disability, withdrawal from participation in the purchase of Shares under the Non-U.S. Portion of the Plan, or termination of employment.

(c)           Terms and Conditions for Any Non-corporate Portion of the Plan. If the Committee allows any non-corporate Subsidiary to adopt the Non-corporate Portion of the Plan, the Committee may allow certain employees of such Subsidiaries an opportunity to acquire Shares in accordance with such special terms and conditions as the Committee may adopt from time to time, which terms and conditions may modify the terms and conditions set forth elsewhere in this Plan, with respect to such employees, to the extent permitted under the following paragraph (d). Without limiting the authority of the Committee, the special terms and conditions that may be adopted with respect to any non-corporate Subsidiary need not be the same for all non-corporate Subsidiaries; and may include but are not limited to the right to participate, procedures for elections to participate, the payment of any interest with respect to amounts received from or credited to Accounts held for the benefit of such employees who elect to participate, the purchase price of any Shares to be acquired, the length of any Contribution Period, the maximum amount of contributions, credits or Shares that may be acquired by any such participating employees, and a participating employee’s rights in the event of his or her death, disability, withdrawal from participation in the purchase of Shares under the Non-corporate Portion of the Plan, or termination of employment.

(d)           Compliance with Applicable Laws; Effect of Code Section 409A. Any purchases of Common Stock made pursuant to the provisions of this Section 20 shall not be subject to the requirements of Code section 423, but shall be made pursuant to any other Applicable Laws; provided, however, the granting of any Options under this Section 20 shall be completed and administered only in a manner that is intended to either (i) comply with Code section 409A, or (ii) be exempt from taxation imposed by Code section 409A(a)(1)(A) or (B), so as to prevent any such taxation being imposed on participants receiving any such grant. For example, Options granted under this Section 20 may either:

B-12



(i)            comply with Code section 409A by either specifying exercise prices that are not less than the fair market value of the Common Stock at the date of grant, or specifying Purchase Dates that are fixed dates or made contingent upon the occurrence of certain earlier or later payment events permitted under Code section 409A, in either case when the Options are granted; or

(ii)           be exempt from Code section 409A if granted under the Non-U.S. Portion of the Plan to certain non-resident alien individuals employed by Subsidiaries that are not Designated Subsidiaries and operate outside the United States, to the extent the latter type of grant is treated under section 1.409A-1(b)(8) of the Treasury Regulations as not providing deferred compensation for such individuals.

21.           Notices. All notices or other communications by a Participant to the Company under or in connection with the Plan shall be deemed to have been duly given when received in the form specified by the Company at the location, or by the person, designated by the Company for the receipt thereof.

22.           Term of Plan; Effective Date. The Plan shall become effective upon approval by Best Buy’s shareholders. It shall continue in effect until all of the Reserves are exhausted or such earlier time as the Plan is terminated pursuant to Section 19.

23.           Governing Law. Except as otherwise explicitly stated in this Plan, the validity, construction and effect of the Plan and any rules and regulations relating to the Plan shall be determined in accordance with the laws of the State of Minnesota and applicable United States federal laws.

24.           Severability. If any provision of the Plan is or becomes invalid, illegal, or unenforceable in any jurisdiction or would disqualify the Plan under any law, such provision shall be construed or deemed amended to conform to Applicable Laws; or if it cannot be so construed or deemed amended without materially altering the intent of the Plan, such provision shall be stricken as to such jurisdiction, and the remainder of the Plan shall remain in full force and effect.

25.           No Rights as an Employee. Nothing in the Plan shall be construed to give any individual (including an Employee or Participant) the right to remain in the employ of Best Buy or any Subsidiary, nor to affect the right of Best Buy or any Subsidiary to terminate the employment of any individual (including the Employee or Participant) at any time with or without cause. Nothing in this Plan shall confer on any person any legal or equitable right against Best Buy or any Subsidiary, or give rise to any cause of action at law or in equity against Best Buy or any Subsidiary. Neither the Options granted, any Shares purchased hereunder nor any other benefits conferred hereby, including the right to purchase Common Stock at a discount, shall form any part of the wages or salary of any eligible Employee for purposes of any severance pay or termination damages, irrespective of the reason for termination of employment. Under no circumstances shall any individual ceasing to be an Employee be entitled to any compensation for any loss of any right or benefit under this Plan that such Employee might otherwise have enjoyed, but for ceasing to be an Employee, whether such compensation is claimed by way of damages for wrongful or unfair dismissal, breach of contract or otherwise.

26.           Taxes. Participants are responsible for the payment of all income taxes, employment, social insurance, welfare and other taxes under Applicable Laws relating to any amounts deemed under the laws of the country of their residency or of the organization of the Subsidiary employing such Participant to constitute income arising out of the Plan, the purchase and sale of Shares pursuant to the Plan and the distribution of Shares or cash to the Participant in accordance with this Plan. Each Participant hereby authorizes Best Buy or any Designated Subsidiary that pays Compensation to the Participant to make appropriate tax withholding deductions from that Compensation with respect to any Contributions authorized

B-13



by the Participant, which deductions shall be in addition to any payroll deductions made as Contributions pursuant to Section 6, and to pay such withheld taxes to the appropriate tax authorities in the relevant country or countries in order to satisfy any of the above tax liabilities of the Participant under Applicable Laws.

27.           Acceptance of Terms. By participating in the Plan, each Participant shall be deemed to have accepted all the conditions of the Plan and the terms and conditions of any rules and regulations adopted by the Committee or the Plan Administrator; and shall be fully bound thereby.

Adopted by the Compensation and Human Resources Committee of Best Buy Co., Inc. on February 22, 2008.

Adopted by the Board of Directors of Best Buy Co., Inc. on April 8, 2008.

B-14



BEST BUY CO., INC.

AUDIT COMMITTEE

CHARTER

Purpose

The Audit Committee (“Committee”) of Best Buy Co., Inc. (“Company”) is appointed by the Board of Directors (“Board”) to discharge the Board’s responsibilities relating to oversight of the following: 1) the integrity of the Company’s financial statements and financial reporting processes, 2) the Company’s internal accounting systems, financial and operational controls, 3) the qualifications and independence of the independent auditor, 4) the performance of the Company’s Internal Audit function and the independent auditor, and 5) the Company’s compliance with its ethics programs, including the its Code of Business Ethics, and legal and regulatory requirements. In so doing, the Committee will maintain free and open communication between the Board, the independent auditor, Internal Auditors and management of the Company.

Committee Membership

The Committee will be composed of at least three directors, each of whom are independent as defined by  the New York Stock Exchange listing standards. All Committee members will be financially literate and will have sufficient knowledge of financial matters to enable them to carry out the responsibilities of the Committee. At least one member of the Committee will be designated as the “financial expert,” as defined by applicable rules and regulations.  In addition, members of the Committee may not accept any consulting, advisory, or other compensatory fee from the Company (other than in their capacity as a member of the Board or one or more of the Board’s committees) and may not be affiliated persons of the Company or its subsidiaries. The Committee members and Chairperson will be appointed by the Board pursuant to the recommendations of the nominating committee of the Board and may be removed by the Board in its discretion.  No Committee member will simultaneously serve on the audit committees of more than two other public companies. The Committee will have authority to delegate any of its responsibilities to subcommittees as the Committee may deem appropriate, provided the subcommittees are composed entirely of independent directors.

Meetings

The Committee will meet at least four times a year, with authority to convene additional meetings, as circumstances require.  All Committee members are expected to attend each meeting, in person or via tele- or video-conference.  A majority of the Committee will comprise a quorum when all Committee members are unable to attend a meeting.  The Committee may request that other Board members, or officers or other employees of the Company, or any other persons whose advice and counsel are sought by the Committee, attend any meeting of the Committee to provide pertinent information.  The Committee may exclude from its meetings any persons it deems inappropriate. Periodically, the Committee may meet in executive session separately without management, with internal auditors and with the Company’s independent auditor.  If practicable, meeting agendas will be prepared in advance of the meeting and distributed to members, along with appropriate briefing materials.

C-1



Committee Authority

The Committee will have the authority to conduct or authorize investigations into any matters within its scope of responsibility.   It is empowered to:

·Obtain full access to all relevant records, property and personnel of the Company.

·Retain outside counsel or other experts and advisors as it determines necessary.

·Approve appropriate compensation for the independent auditor or any other registered public accounting firm engaged for the purposes of preparing or issuing an audit report or performing other audit, review or attestation services for the Company.

·Approve appropriate compensation at the Company’s expense for any advisers engaged by the Committee for the purpose of carrying out its duties, and ordinary administrative expenses of the Committee.

Committee Responsibility

The following represent the primary recurring duties of the Committee in carrying out its oversight responsibilities:

A.Independent Auditor

1.The Committee will be directly responsible for the appointment (subject, as applicable, to shareholder ratification), termination, compensation and oversight of the work of the independent auditor, including resolution of disagreements between management and the independent auditor regarding financial reporting. The Committee will, at least annually, evaluate the independent auditor’s qualifications, performance and independence, taking into account the opinions of management and its internal auditors. Such evaluation will include the review and evaluation of the experience and qualifications of the senior members of the independent auditor team.  The conclusions regarding the independent auditor evaluation will be presented to the Board.

2.The Committee will ensure the rotation of the lead audit partner and other audit partners as professional standards dictate, and consider whether there should be regular rotation of the audit firm itself.

3.The Committee will pre-approve all audit and non-audit services provided by the independent auditor unless such services are considered de-minimus audit-related services as defined by the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and acceptable under the Company’s independent auditor policy. The Committee may delegate pre-approval authority to a member of the Committee. The decisions of any Committee member to whom pre-approval authority is delegated must be presented to the Committee at its next scheduled meeting.

4.At least annually, the Committee will obtain and review a report by the independent auditor describing:

a.The firm’s internal quality control procedures.

C-2



b.Any material issues raised by:

(i)The most recent internal quality control review, reviews performed by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board or SEC, or any other peer review of the firm,

(ii)Any inquiry or investigation by governmental or professional authorities, within the preceding five years, respecting one or more independent audits carried out by the firm, and

(iii)Any steps taken to deal with any such issues.

c.All relationships between the independent auditor and the Company to assess the auditor’s independence.

5.The Committee will establish for the Company clear hiring policies for employees or former employees of the independent auditor that meet applicable listing standards as well as federal rules and regulations.

B.Audit Processes and Reporting

1.The Committee will meet with the internal auditors, the independent auditors and appropriate management of the Company to review the overall scope and plans for their respective audits, including the adequacy of staffing and compensation. The Committee will also meet with these groups to discuss the adequacy and effectiveness of the Company’s accounting, financial and other internal controls. Further, the Committee will meet separately with management, its internal auditors and the independent auditor periodically, to discuss the results of their examinations and whether there were any audit problems or difficulties encountered during their work or with management’s responses.

2.The Committee will review:

a.Reports from the independent auditor on the critical policies and practices of the Company, and all alternative treatments of financial information within generally accepted accounting principles that have been discussed with management.

b.Management’s assertion on its assessment of the effectiveness of internal controls as of the end of the most recent fiscal year and the independent auditor’s report on management’s assertion as required.

c.All material written communications between the independent auditor and the Company’s internal auditors, such as the management letter or accounting adjustments that were noted or proposed by the independent auditor, but were not adopted or reflected.

d.Any material communications between the independent auditor’s audit team and the independent auditor’s national office regarding auditing or accounting issues presented by the engagement.

C-3



3.The Committee will discuss with the independent auditor and the Company’s internal auditors the effect of regulatory and accounting initiatives as well as off-balance sheet structures and aggregate contractual obligations on the Company’s financial statements.

4.The Committee will review the interim financial statements with management and the independent auditor prior to the filing of the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Also, the Committee will discuss the results of the quarterly review and any other matters required to be communicated to the Committee by the independent auditor under generally accepted auditing standards. The Chairperson or a designee of the Committee may represent the entire Committee for purposes of this review. Further, the Committee will review and discuss with management and the independent auditor earnings press releases, including the use, if any, of “pro-forma” or “adjusted” non-GAAP information, as well as financial information and earnings guidance provided to analysts and rating agencies.

5.The Committee will review with management and the independent auditor the financial statements and disclosures under Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, to be included in the Company’s Annual Reports on Form 10-K. The Committee will also review with management and the independent auditor their judgments about the quality, not just acceptability, of accounting principles, the reasonableness of significant judgments and the clarity of the disclosures in the financial statements. Additionally, the Committee will discuss the results of the annual audit and any other matters required to be communicated to the Committee by the independent auditor under generally accepted auditing standards. Following completion of the annual audit, the Committee will review the independent auditor’s recommendations to management as well as the results of procedures performed.

6.The Committee will prepare its report to be included in the Company’s annual proxy statements, as required by SEC regulations.

7.The Committee will review disclosures made by the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer during the Forms 10-K and 10-Q certification processes about significant deficiencies, if any, in the design or operation of internal controls or any fraud that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the Company’s internal controls.

C.Legal and Ethical Compliance

1.The Committee will establish procedures for the receipt, retention and treatment of complaints received regarding accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters, and the confidential, anonymous submission by employees of concerns regarding questionable accounting or auditing matters. In addition, if appropriate, the Committee will receive Company attorneys’ reports of evidence of material violations of securities laws or breaches of fiduciary duty.

2.The Committee will evaluate the Company’s policies and procedures to assess, monitor and manage legal and ethical compliance programs, including the Company’s Code of Business Ethics and Related Party Transactions Policy.

C-4



3.The Committee will also discuss with management the Company’s major financial risk exposures and the steps management has taken to monitor and control such exposures, including the Company’s risk assessment and risk management policies.

The Committee will also undertake such additional activities as the Committee may from time to time determine or as may otherwise be required by law, the company’s articles or by-laws or directive of the Board.

The Committee will make regular reports to the Board and will recommend any proposed actions to the Board for approval as necessary. The Committee will review and reassess the adequacy of this Charter at least annually and recommend any proposed changes to the Board for approval.

The Committee will at least annually evaluate its own performance to determine whether it is functioning effectively.

The primary responsibility of the Committee is to oversee the Company’s financial reporting process and report the results of its activities to the Board. Management is responsible for preparing the Company’s financial statements and the independent auditor is responsible for auditing those financial statements. In carrying out its oversight responsibilities, the Committee believes its policies and procedures should remain flexible, in order to best react to changing conditions and with the objective of assessing whether the Company’s accounting and financial reporting practices are in accordance with all requirements and are of the highest quality.

C-5



C-9



 

 

VOTE BY INTERNET - www.proxyvote.com

Use the Internet to vote the shares up until 11:59 p.m., Eastern Time, on Tuesday, June 24, 2008.23, 2009. Have your proxy card in hand when you access the Internet site and follow the prompts.

7601 PENN AVENUE SOUTH
RICHFIELD, MN 55423

 

ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF FUTURE INVESTOR COMMUNICATIONS
If you would like to reduce the costs incurred by BEST BUY CO., INC. in mailing proxy materials, you can consent to receiving all future proxy statements, proxy cards and annual reports electronically via e-mail or the Internet.  To sign up for electronic delivery, please follow the instructions above to vote using the Internet and, when prompted, indicate that you agree to receive or access investor communications electronically in future years.

 

 

 

VOTE BY TELEPHONE (WITHIN THE U.S. OR CANADA) -
1-800-690-6903

Use any touch-tone telephone to vote the shares until 11:59 p.m., Eastern Time, on Tuesday, June 24, 2008.23, 2009. Have your proxy card in hand when you call and follow the prompts.

 

 

VOTE BY MAIL

Mark, sign and date your proxy card, and return it in the postage-paid envelope we have provided or return it to BEST BUY CO., INC., c/o  Broadridge, 51 Mercedes Way, Edgewood, NY 11717.

 



 

TO VOTE, MARK BLOCKS BELOW IN BLUE OR BLACK INK AS FOLLOWS:

 

BESTB1

 

KEEP THIS PORTION FOR YOUR RECORDS

 

DETACH AND RETURN THIS PORTION ONLY

 

THIS PROXY CARD IS VALID ONLY WHEN SIGNED AND DATED.

 

BEST BUY CO., INC.

This Proxy, when properly executed and returned to Best Buy, will be voted in the manner directed herein by the undersignedshareholder(s). If no direction is made, this proxy will be voted FOR Proposals 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9.

 

 

 

 

 

For
All

 

Withhold
All

 

For All
Except

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.

Election of  Directors

o

o

o

To withhold authority to vote for any

 

 

 

 

 

individual nominee(s), mark “For all-All-

 

1.1

Election of fiveseven Class 12 Directors —

 

 

 

Except” and write the number(s) of the

 

01)     Bradbury H. Anderson

 

 

 

 

nominee(s) on the line below.

 

02)     Kathy J. Higgins Victor01)

Ronald James

 

 

 

 

 

03)     Allen U. Lenzmeier02)

Elliot S. Kaplan

 

 

 

 

 

04)     Rogelio M. Rebolledo03)

Sanjay Khosla

 

 

 

 

 

05)     Frank D. Trestman04)

George L. Mikan III

 

 

 

 

 

05)

Matthew H. Paull

 

 

 

 

 

1.2      Ratification of one Class 2 Director —06)

Richard M. Schulze

 

 

 

 

 

06)     George L. Mikan, III07)

Hatim A. Tyabji

 

 

1.2

Ratification of one Class 1 Director —

 

 

 

 

08)

Gérard R. Vittecoq



 

 

 

 

 

For

 

Against

 

Abstain

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.

 

Ratification of the appointment of Deloitte & Touche LLP as the Company’sour independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending February 28,that began on March 2, 2009.

o

 

o

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.

 

Approval of the Best Buy Co., Inc. 2008 Employeeamendments to our 2004 Omnibus Stock Purchase Plan.

and Incentive Plan, as amended

o

o

o

4.

Approval of an amendment to the Best Buy Co., Inc. Restated Articles of Incorporation.

o

 

o

 

o

 

4.

Approval of an amendment to Article IX of our Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation (“Articles”) to change the approval required for certain business combinations.

o

o

o

5.

Approval of an amendment to Article IX of our Articles to decrease the shareholder approval required to amend Article IX.

o

o

o

6.

Approval of an amendment to Article IX of our Articles to decrease the shareholder approval required to remove directors without cause.

o

o

o

7.

Approval of an amendment to Article IX of our Articles to decrease the shareholder approval required to amend the classified board provisions in our Amended and Restated By-Laws.

o

o

o

8.

Approval of an amendment to Article X of our Articles to decrease the shareholder approval required for certain repurchases of stock from substantial shareholders and make other related changes.

o

o

o

9.

Approval of an amendment to Article X of our Articles to decrease the shareholder approval required to amend Article X.

o

o

o

10.

 

In their discretion, the Proxy Agents are authorized to vote upon such other business as may properly come before the Meeting.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For comments, check the box to the right, and note on the reverse side.

o

 



 

If you vote by mail, please date and sign exactly as your name
appears and return this card promptly in the accompanying postage-paid envelope. If shares are held by joint tenants or as community property, both shareholders must sign.

HOUSEHOLDING ELECTION - Please

Yes

No

indicate if you consent to receive future proxy materials and other shareholderinvestor communications in a single package per household. If you consent, Best Buy will send a single package per household until you revoke your consent. To revoke your consent, notify Best Buy, Attn: Investor Relations, at the address listed above or call (612) 291-6147. Best Buy will start sending you individual copies of shareholderinvestor

accompanying postage-paid envelope. If shares are held

communications within 30 days of your

Yes

No

by joint tenants or as community property, both

revocation of consent.

shareholders must sign.

o

 

o

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Signature [PLEASE SIGN WITHIN BOX]

 

Date

 

Signature (Joint Owners)

 

Date

 

 



 

BEST BUY CO., INC.

REGULAR MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS

9:30 a.m., Central Time, on Wednesday, June 25, 200824, 2009

 

Dear Best Buy Shareholder:

 

Your vote is important!  We encourage you to vote promptly and to take advantage of Internet or telephone voting, both of which are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

 

Vote by Internet:

Go to www.proxyvote.com and follow the prompts.

 

 

 

 

Vote by Telephone:

Call 1-800-690-6903 if you are in the U.S. or Canada, and follow the prompts.

 

(If you vote by Internet or by telephone, please do not mail your proxy card.)

 

Receive ShareholderInvestor Communications Electronically:

 

Help us make a difference by eliminating paper mailings to your home or business. We will provide all future proxy materials and annual reports to you electronically, unless you indicate otherwise. You can, of course, change your preference and choose to receive paper copies of these materials at any time.

YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT. THANK YOU FOR VOTING.

 

 

 

Important Notice Regarding the Availability of Proxy Materials for the Regular Meeting of Shareholders to be held on June 24, 2009:

Our Notice and Proxy Statement and our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 28, 2009 are available at www.proxyvote.com.

FOLD AND DETACH HERE IF YOU ARE RETURNING YOUR PROXY CARD BY MAIL

 

 



 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PROXY

PROXY

 

 

 

 

 

 

BEST BUY CO., INC.

 

7601 Penn Avenue South


Richfield, Minnesota 55423

 

 

This Proxy is Solicited on Behalf of the Board of Directors


for use at the Regular Meeting of Shareholders to be held on June 25, 200824, 2009

 

 

 

 

The undersigned appoint(s) Richard M. Schulze and/or Elliot S. Kaplan, each with the power of substitution, as his or her proxies (“Proxy Agents”) to vote as directed on the reverse side of this proxy card, all the shares of common stock of Best Buy Co., Inc. held of record by the undersigned as of April 28, 2008,27, 2009, at the Regular Meeting of Shareholders (the “Meeting”) to be held on Wednesday, June 25, 2008,24, 2009, at 9:30 a.m., Central Time, at the Best Buy Corporate Campus - Theater, 7601 Penn Avenue South, Richfield, Minnesota, or any postponement or adjournment of the Meeting. The undersigned acknowledges receipt of the Notice of 20082009 Regular Meeting of Shareholders and the related Proxy Statement.

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

IF NO OTHER INDICATION IS MADE ON THE REVERSE SIDE OF THIS PROXY CARD, THE PROXY AGENTS WILL VOTE FOR PROPOSALS 1, 2, 3 AND 4, AND, IN THEIR DISCRETION, UPON SUCH OTHER BUSINESS AS MAY PROPERLY COME BEFORE THE MEETING. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(If you noted comments above, please mark the corresponding box on the reverse side.)