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SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 6-K
Report of Foreign Private Issuer
Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the quarter ended April 30, 2003
Commission File No. 000-29512
Barbeques Galore Limited
ABN 92 008 577 759
327 Chisholm Road, Auburn, New South Wales, 2144, Australia
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code 61-2-9704-4177
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover Form 20-F or Form 40-F. Form
20-F þ Form 40-F ¨
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1): ¨
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7): ¨
Indicate by check mark whether by furnishing the information contained in this Form, the registrant is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Yes ¨ No þ
If “Yes” is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in connection with Rule 12g3-2(b): 82-
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FORM 6-K
For the Quarter Ended April 30, 2003
Page No. | ||||
PART I. | ||||
ITEM 1. | Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of April 30, 2003 (unaudited) and January 31, 2003 | 1 | ||
2 | ||||
3 | ||||
Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited) | 4 | |||
ITEM 2. | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations | 7 | ||
ITEM 3. | 16 | |||
PART II. | ||||
ITEM 1. | 17 | |||
ITEM 2. | 17 | |||
ITEM 3. | 17 | |||
ITEM 4. | 17 | |||
ITEM 5. | 17 | |||
ITEM 6. | 17 | |||
Signatures | 18 | |||
Exhibit Index | 19 |
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BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
In A$ thousands, except share data
ITEM 1. Financial Statements.
April 30, 2003 | January 31, 2003 | |||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
ASSETS | ||||||||
Current assets: | ||||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 36 | $ | 38 | ||||
Accounts receivable, net of allowance of $395 at April 30, 2003 and $370 at January 31, 2003 | 10,531 | 9,489 | ||||||
Inventories (note 2) | 66,873 | 62,903 | ||||||
Deferred income taxes | 4,875 | 2,857 | ||||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 2,116 | 1,445 | ||||||
Total current assets | 84,431 | 76,732 | ||||||
Non-current assets: | ||||||||
Receivables from affiliates | 1,251 | 1,244 | ||||||
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $40,021 at April 30, 2003 and $38,278 at January 31, 2003 | 28,548 | 32,138 | ||||||
Goodwill, net of accumulated amortization of $598 at April 30, 2003 and $598 at January 31, 2003 | 1,126 | 1,126 | ||||||
Deferred income taxes | 1,845 | 1,936 | ||||||
Other non-current assets | 3,289 | 3,126 | ||||||
Total assets | $ | 120,490 | $ | 116,302 | ||||
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY | ||||||||
Current liabilities: | ||||||||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | $ | 34,446 | $ | 28,018 | ||||
Payables to related parties | 89 | 18 | ||||||
Current portion of obligations under capital leases | 2,143 | 2,778 | ||||||
Income tax payable | — | 1,314 | ||||||
Total current liabilities | 36,678 | 32,128 | ||||||
Non-current liabilities: | ||||||||
Long-term debt | 28,576 | 21,132 | ||||||
Obligations under capital leases, excluding current portion | 3,684 | 3,060 | ||||||
Other long-term liabilities | 233 | 229 | ||||||
Total liabilities | 69,171 | 56,549 | ||||||
Shareholders’ equity: | ||||||||
Ordinary shares, no par value—authorized 27,437,853 shares; 4,541,652 issued shares; 4,116,652 outstanding shares | 40,733 | 40,733 | ||||||
Accumulated other comprehensive income | 818 | 2,804 | ||||||
Retained earnings | 11,964 | 18,412 | ||||||
53,515 | 61,949 | |||||||
Less: Treasury stock at cost—425,000 Ordinary shares | (2,196 | ) | (2,196 | ) | ||||
Total shareholders’ equity | 51,319 | 59,753 | ||||||
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity | $ | 120,490 | $ | 116,302 | ||||
See accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
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BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE (LOSS)
In A$ thousands, except share and per share data
Three Months Ended April 30, 2003 | Three Months Ended April 30, 2002 | |||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Net sales | $ | 58,494 | $ | 68,966 | ||||
Cost of goods sold, warehouse, distribution and occupancy costs | 43,797 | 50,023 | ||||||
Gross profit | 14,697 | 18,943 | ||||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses | 19,269 | 20,846 | ||||||
Relocation and closure costs | 55 | — | ||||||
Operating (loss) | (4,627 | ) | (1,903 | ) | ||||
Equity in income of affiliates, net of tax | 183 | 187 | ||||||
Interest expense | 487 | 507 | ||||||
Other expense | 4,318 | — | ||||||
(Loss) before income tax | (9,249 | ) | (2,223 | ) | ||||
Income tax (benefit) | (2,801 | ) | (679 | ) | ||||
Net (loss) | (6,448 | ) | (1,544 | ) | ||||
Other comprehensive (loss) | (1,986 | ) | (2,281 | ) | ||||
Net (loss) after other comprehensive (loss) | $ | (8,434 | ) | $ | (3,825 | ) | ||
Basic (loss) per share | $ | (1.57 | ) | $ | (0.38 | ) | ||
Diluted (loss) per share | $ | (1.57 | ) | $ | (0.38 | ) | ||
Weighted average shares outstanding (in thousands) | ||||||||
—Basic | 4,117 | 4,117 | ||||||
—Diluted | 4,117 | 4,117 | ||||||
See accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
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BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
In A$ thousands
Three Months Ended April 30, 2003 | Three Months Ended April 30, 2002 | |||||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||||
Cash flows from operating activities: | ||||||||
Net (loss) | $ | (6,448 | ) | $ | (1,544 | ) | ||
Non-cash charges, net | 2,268 | 275 | ||||||
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | ||||||||
Receivables and prepaid expenses | (1,731 | ) | 1,259 | |||||
Inventories | (3,975 | ) | (7,622 | ) | ||||
Other assets | 12 | 20 | ||||||
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities | 3,517 | 3,142 | ||||||
Net cash (used in) operating activities | (6,357 | ) | (4,470 | ) | ||||
Cash flows from investing activities: | ||||||||
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment | 27 | — | ||||||
Capital expenditures | (462 | ) | (1,093 | ) | ||||
Loans repayments (paid) | (7 | ) | (152 | ) | ||||
Net cash (used in) investing activities | (442 | ) | (1,245 | ) | ||||
Cash flows from financing activities: | ||||||||
Repayment of long-term debt | (17,500 | ) | (2,604 | ) | ||||
Proceeds from long-term debt | 24,944 | 8,910 | ||||||
Principal payments under capital leases | (647 | ) | (590 | ) | ||||
Net cash provided by financing activities | 6,797 | 5,716 | ||||||
Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents | (2 | ) | 1 | |||||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | 38 | 35 | ||||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | 36 | $ | 36 | ||||
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information: | ||||||||
Income taxes paid | $ | 679 | $ | 1,588 | ||||
Interest paid | $ | 477 | $ | 547 | ||||
See accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
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BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(UNAUDITED)
1. Basis of Presentation
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and Rule 10-01 of Regulation S-X.
As a result, the information contained in these unaudited consolidated financial statements and footnotes is condensed from that which would appear in annual consolidated financial statements and does not contain all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for complete financial statements. Accordingly, these condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and related notes contained in the Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2003, filed by Barbeques Galore Limited (the “Company”) with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”) on May 1, 2003. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements as of April 30, 2003 and for the three months ended April 30, 2003 and 2002 include all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring adjustments) considered necessary for a fair presentation. The results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the entire year. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.
2. Inventories
The major classes of inventories are as follows:
April 30, 2003 | January 31, 2003 | |||||||
In A$ thousands | (Unaudited) | |||||||
Finished goods | $ | 64,633 | $ | 58,881 | ||||
Work in progress | 1,258 | 1,719 | ||||||
Raw materials | 1,787 | 2,902 | ||||||
67,678 | 63,502 | |||||||
Less: Reserve for obsolescence | (605 | ) | (599 | ) | ||||
Reserve for inventory write-down | (200 | ) | — | |||||
$ | 66,873 | $ | 62,903 | |||||
3. (Loss) per Share
Basic (loss) per share is computed by dividing net (loss) available to ordinary shareholders by the weighted average number of ordinary shares. Diluted (loss) per share is computed by dividing net (loss) available to ordinary shareholders by the weighted average of ordinary shares and dilutive ordinary share equivalents for the period. In calculating the dilutive effect of share options, the Company uses the treasury stock method. For the three months ended April 30, 2003 and 2002, ordinary share equivalents have not been considered since they are anti-dilutive.
4. Recent Accounting Pronouncements
In June 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Statement No. 141,Business Combinations(“Statement 141”) and Statement No. 142,Goodwill and Intangible Assets(“Statement 142”).Statement 141 requires that the purchase method of accounting be used for all business combinations completed after June 30, 2001 and also specifies the types of acquired intangible assets that are required to be recognized and reported separately from goodwill and those acquired intangible assets that are required to be included in goodwill. Statement 142 requires that goodwill no longer be amortized, but instead tested for impairment at least annually and that recognized intangible assets be amortized over their respective estimated useful lives and reviewed for impairment in accordance with Statement No. 144,Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets (“Statement 144”). Any recognized intangible asset determined to have an indefinite useful life will not be amortized, but instead tested for impairment in accordance with Statement 142 until its life is determined to no longer be indefinite.
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The provisions of Statement 141 are applicable to all business combinations accounted for by the purchase method for which the date of acquisition is July 1, 2001 or later. The Company adopted the provisions of Statement 142 on February 1, 2002 with retroactive application of Statements 141 and 142 not being permitted. Any goodwill and any/or intangible asset, however, determined to have an indefinite useful life, acquired in a business combination completed after June 30, 2001 will not be amortized. Effective February 1, 2002, the Company will no longer amortize goodwill and, having evaluated the impact of Statement 141, believes there will be no material impact on its results of operations, financial position or liquidity.
As a result of ceasing to amortize goodwill, the Company estimated that operating income would increase by approximately $86,000 during the year ended January 31, 2003. Statement 142 provides for a six-month transitional period from the effective date of adoption to perform an assessment as to whether there is an indication that goodwill is impaired. To the extent that an indication of impairment exists, a second test must be performed to measure the amount of such impairment with the second test to be performed as soon as possible, but no later than the end of the fiscal year. Any impairment measured as of the date of adoption will be recognized as the cumulative effect of a change in accounting policy. Having made such an assessment, the Company believes that there has been no impairment of goodwill.
In June 2001, the FASB issued Statement No. 143,Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations(“Statement 143”). Statement 143 addresses financial accounting and reporting for obligations associated with the retirement of tangible long-lived assets and the associated asset retirement costs and applies to legal obligations associated with the retirement of long-lived assets and/or the normal operation of a long-lived asset. Under Statement 143, the fair value of a liability for an asset retirement obligation is recognized in the period in which it is incurred if a reasonable estimate of fair value can be made. The associated asset retirement costs are capitalized as part of the carrying amount of the long-lived asset. The liability is discounted and accretion expense is recognized using the credit adjusted risk-free interest rate in effect when the liability was initially recognized. Statement 143 was effective for the Company as of February 1, 2003 and having evaluated the impact of Statement 143, the Company believes there will be no material impact on its results of operations, financial position or liquidity.
In August 2001, the FASB issued Statement 144, which addresses financial accounting and reporting for the impairment of long-lived assets and which will supersede Statement 121 with respect to the accounting for the impairment or disposal of long-lived assets and Accounting Principals Board Opinion No. 30 (“Opinion 30”) for the disposal of a segment of a business. Statements 144 retains the requirements of Statement 121 to:
(a) | recognize an impairment loss only if the carrying amount of a long-lived asset is not recoverable from its undiscounted cash flows; and |
(b) | measure an impairment loss as the difference between the carrying amount and fair value of the asset. |
Statement 144 also requires that a long-lived asset to be abandoned, exchanged for a similar productive asset, or distributed to owners in a spin-off be considered held and used until the asset is disposed of. Statement 144 retains the basic provisions for Opinion 30 for the presentation of discontinued operations in the income statement but broadens that presentation to include a component of an entity, rather than a segment of a business. A component of an entity comprises operations and cash flows that can be clearly distinguished, operationally and for financial reporting purposes, from the rest of the entity. A component of an entity that is classified as held for sale or that has been disposed of, is presented as a discontinued operation if the operations and cash flows of the component will be (or have been) eliminated from the ongoing operations of the entity and the entity will not have any significant continuing involvement in the operations of the component. In addition, discontinued operations are no longer measured on a net realizable value basis and future operating losses are no longer recognized before they occur.
Statement 144 was effective for the Company as of February 1, 2002 and, having evaluated the impact of Statement 144, the Company believes there will be no material impact on its results of operations, financial position or liquidity.
In April 2002 the FASB issued Statement No. 145, “Rescission of FASB Statements 4, 44 and 64, Amendment of FASB Statement 13, and Technical Corrections” (“Statement 145”). As a result of the rescission of SFAS No.4, a loss on extinguishments of debt will no longer be presented as an extraordinary item upon the adoption of Statement 145, which is effective for the Company in the fiscal year beginning February 1, 2003.
In July 2002 the FASB issued Statement No. 146,“Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities” (“Statement 146”) which is based on the general principle that a liability for a cost associated with an exit or disposal activity should be recorded when it is incurred and initially measured at fair value. Statement 146 applies to costs associated with:
(a) | an exit activity that does not involve an entity newly acquired in a business combination; or |
(b) | a disposal activity within the scope of Statement 144. |
These costs include certain termination benefits, costs to terminate a contract that is not a capital lease, and other associated costs to consolidate facilities or relocate employees.
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In November 2002 the FASB issued Interpretation No. 45, “Guarantor’s Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others,” (“FIN 45”) which addresses the disclosures to be made by a guarantor in its annual financial statements in connection with its obligations under guarantees. FIN 45 also requires the recognition of a liability by a guarantor at the inception of certain guarantees that are entered into or modified after December 31, 2002.
The Company adopted the disclosure requirements of FIN 45 and will apply the recognition and measurement provisions for all material guarantees entered into or modified in periods beginning January 1, 2003. The impact of FIN 45 on the Company’s future consolidated financial statements will depend upon whether the Company enters into, or modifies, any material guarantee arrangements.
In December 2002 the FASB issued Statement No. 148,“Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation – Transition and Disclosure, an amendment of FASB Statement No. 123”. This Statement amends FASB Statement No. 123,“Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” (“Statement 123”) to provide alternative methods of transition for a voluntary change to the fair value method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation. In addition, this Statement amends the disclosure requirements of Statement 123 to require prominent disclosure in annual financial statements.
5. Segments and Related Information
The Company is engaged in the retail industry and operates through stores located in two geographic segments, Australia and the United States.
The Company measures the performance of its operating segments based on gross profit and operating income (loss), which is defined as income (loss) before equity income of affiliates net of tax, interest expense and income tax expense (benefit). In addition, the operating income of the United States does not include all the income attributable to it for product manufactured and purchased for the United States by the Australian subsidiaries.
Summarized financial information concerning the Company’s reportable segments is as follows:
Australia | United States | Total | ||||||||||
(in A$ thousands) | ||||||||||||
Three Months to April 30, 2003 | ||||||||||||
Revenues from external customers | $ | 22,844 | $ | 35,650 | $ | 58,494 | ||||||
Gross profit | $ | 5,236 | $ | 9,461 | $ | 14,697 | ||||||
Operating (loss) | $ | (2,757 | ) | $ | (1,870 | ) | $ | (4,627 | ) | |||
Depreciation and amortization | $ | 994 | $ | 706 | $ | 1,700 | ||||||
Capital expenditures | $ | 197 | $ | 265 | $ | 462 | ||||||
Total assets | $ | 63,243 | $ | 57,247 | $ | 120,490 | ||||||
Three Months to April 30, 2002 | ||||||||||||
Revenues from external customers | $ | 24,427 | $ | 44,539 | $ | 68,966 | ||||||
Gross profit | $ | 6,678 | $ | 12,265 | $ | 18,943 | ||||||
Operating (loss) | $ | (1,089 | ) | $ | (814 | ) | $ | (1,903 | ) | |||
Depreciation and amortization | $ | 928 | $ | 834 | $ | 1,762 | ||||||
Capital expenditures | $ | 515 | $ | 578 | $ | 1,093 | ||||||
Total assets | $ | 64,449 | $ | 66,502 | $ | 130,951 | ||||||
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ITEM 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
This information should be read in conjunction with the condensed consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in Item 1 of Part 1 of this Quarterly Report and the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto and the Operating and Financial Review and Prospects contained in the Company’s 2003 Annual Report on Form 20-F.
The following Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which involve risks and uncertainties. The Company’s actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors, including those set forth under “Risk Factors” within this section and elsewhere in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 000-29512) for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2003, filed with the Commission on May 1, 2003. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include those discussed herein as well as those included in the documents that the Company files from time to time with the Commission. Unless the context requires otherwise, references to “Barbeques Galore,” “we,” “our,” “us” and similar terms refer to Barbeques Galore Limited and its consolidated subsidiaries.
Overview
We believe we are the leading specialty retail chain of barbecue and barbecue accessory stores in Australia and the United States, having regard to the number of stores and sales volume. We also base this belief on our years of experience in the barbecue retail industry as well as our contacts with other industry retailers, suppliers and trade associations. We opened our first store in Sydney, Australia in 1977 and our first U.S. store in Los Angeles, in 1980. Our stores carry a wide assortment of barbecues and related accessories, displayed in a format that emphasizes social activities and healthy outdoor lifestyles in addition to a comprehensive line of fireplace products and certain backyard products and, in Australia, home heating products, outdoor furniture, limited camping and backyard products. As of April 30, 2003, we owned and operated 34 stores in all six states in Australia, as well as one wood heating outlet in Tasmania, Australia and 63 stores (including three U.S. Military concession stores), in ten states in the United States. In addition, as of such date, there were 50 licensed stores in Australia and nine franchised stores in the United States, all of which operate under the “Barbeques Galore” name.
We derive our revenue primarily from four categories: Australian retail, United States retail (including royalties and sales to franchisees), Australian licensing (including license fees and sales to licensees) and Australian wholesale. For the three months ended April 30, 2003, these categories represented 25.9%, 60.9%, 5.4% and 7.8% respectively, of our net sales for such period, representing a (5.5%), (20.0)%, (5.5%) and (10.2%) (decrease) over their respective net sales levels for the three months ended April 30, 2002.
Critical Accounting Policies
In response to the Commission’s Release No. 33-8040, “Cautionary Advice Regarding Disclosure About Critical Accounting Policies,” we have identified the critical accounting policies that are most important to the portrayal of our financial condition and results of operations. The policies set forth below require management’s most subjective judgments, often as a result of the need to make estimates about the effect of matters that are inherently uncertain.
Impairment of long-lived assets
We assess the impairment of identifiable long-lived assets whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. Factors we consider important which could trigger an impairment review include the following:
• | significant underperformance relative to expected historical or projected future operating results; |
• | significant changes in the manner of our use of the acquired assets or the strategy for our overall business; and |
• | significant negative industry or economic trends. |
During fiscal 2002, our decision to close seven U.S. stores triggered an impairment review of identifiable net assets in relation to these stores. As a result of this impairment review, leasehold improvements with a net book value of A$1,018,000 were written down to nil.
In addition to these asset write-downs and costs of A$567,000 incurred in relation to the store closures, we raised a provision of A$622,000 as of January 31, 2002 in relation to stores to be closed during the forthcoming fiscal year. This provision, pursuant to EITF 94-3, “Liability Recognition for Certain Employee Termination Benefits and other Costs to Exit an Activity” (“EITF 94-3”) was made in relation to lease buyout costs, future contractual rental costs to be incurred following closure and prior to sub-lease and, commission expenses related to sub-leasing these stores. In calculating this provision, we made estimates in relation to the period of time it would take to secure a suitable subleasee following closure of the stores and the
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amount of future expenses that would be incurred. If our assumptions prove to be inaccurate, then the actual amount of cash outflows as a result of the closure of these stores may be in excess of the amount provided.
During August 2002, one further U.S. store was identified for closure in fiscal 2004 pursuant to historical underperformance and an additional amount of A$243,000 was provided as of January 31, 2003 in accordance with EITF 94-3.
During the quarter ended April 30, 2003, an amount of A$3,980,000 was provided in respect of the downsizing of our manufacturing operations in Sydney, Australia, pursuant to Statement 146 which requires a liability to be recorded only when the liability is incurred and can be measured at fair value.
Inventory Reserves
In assessing the adequacy of our reserve for stock obsolescence, we make assumptions in relation to future demand and market conditions. If actual demand and market conditions are less favorable than those projected by management, additional inventory reserves may be required.
Results of Operations
The following table sets forth our unaudited consolidated operating results as a percentage of net sales for the three months ended April 30, 2003 and 2002. Given the degree of seasonality to which our business is subject, our quarterly results and comparisons of such quarterly results to prior years’ quarters are not necessarily indicative of future results.
BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
Three Months April 30, 2003 | Three Months Ended April 30, 2002 | |||||
(Unaudited) | ||||||
Net sales | 100.0 | % | 100.0 | % | ||
Cost of goods sold, warehouse, distribution and occupancy costs | 74.9 | 72.5 | ||||
Gross profit | 25.1 | 27.5 | ||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses | 32.9 | 30.2 | ||||
Relocation and closure costs | 0.1 | 0.0 | ||||
Operating (loss) | (7.9 | ) | (2.7 | ) | ||
Equity in income of affiliates, net of tax | 0.3 | 0.2 | ||||
Interest expense | 0.8 | 0.7 | ||||
Other expense | 7.4 | 0.0 | ||||
(Loss) before income tax | (15.8 | ) | (3.2 | ) | ||
Income tax (benefit) | (4.8 | ) | (1.0 | ) | ||
Net (loss) | (11.0 | )% | (2.2 | )% | ||
There has been no material impact of inflation and changing prices on our net sales and operating loss for the three months ended April 30, 2003 and 2002, respectively.
Three Months Ended April 30, 2003 (Unaudited) Compared to Three Months Ended April 30, 2002 (Unaudited)
Net sales decreased by approximately A$10.5 million, or 15.2%, to A$58.5 million for the three months ended April 30, 2003 from A$69.0 million for the three months ended April 30, 2002. This was largely due to poor consumer confidence in the lead up to and during, the Iraq War and particularly weak economic conditions in the U.S. generally. In the United States, no stores were opened and no stores were closed. In Australia, one new company-store was opened and one company-store relocated. The store in Keswick, South Australia which was totally destroyed by fire on April 5, 2003, is scheduled to re-open its doors at a temporary location during the second quarter of fiscal 2004. Comparable store sales decreased 8.1% in the United States, and 1.6% in Australia, largely due to the reasons stated earlier. Comparable store sales decreased by A$8.2 million, primarily due to
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the reasons stated earlier and the effect of the strengthening in the average exchange rate between the Australian dollar and the U.S. dollar for the first fiscal 2004 quarter which increased 15.1%, to A$1=US$0.6036 from A$1=US$0.5243 last year, in addition to reductions of A$1.6 million in sales from stores not forming part of the comparable store sales, A$0.2 million in sales to Australian licensees and A$0.5 million in Australian wholesale.
Gross profit decreased approximately A$4.2 million, or 22.2% to A$14.7 million for the three months ended April 30, 2003 from A$18.9 million for the three months ended April 30, 2002. Gross profit percentage decreased to 25.1% during the three months ended April 30, 2003 from 27.5% during the comparable period in 2002. In the U.S.A. this was attributable to a shift in sales mix towards lower margin product and the lower leverage in relation to the fixed cost portion of cost of goods sold. In Australia this was mainly due to a move towards lower-end priced barbecues, excess furniture inventory clearance sales during February and March 2003 and the clearing of discontinued camping equipment.
Selling, general and administrative expenses (which exclude store pre-opening expenses) decreased approximately A$1.5 million, or 7.2%, to A$19.3 million for the three months ended April 30, 2003 from A$20.8 million for the three months ended April 30, 2002. As a percentage of net sales, selling, general and administrative expenses increased to 32.9% during the three months ended April 30, 2003 from 30.2% during the comparable period in 2002. This percentage increase was primarily due to a lower leverage off a smaller overall sales base.
Relocation and closure costs increased from A$nil to A$55,000 during the current quarter pursuant to the relocation of our Blacktown store in Australia.
Operating (loss) increased by approximately A$(2.7) million to A$(4.6) million for the three months ended April 30, 2003 from A$(1.9) million for the three months ended April 30, 2002.
Income from affiliates decreased by A$4,000 to A$183,000 for the three months ended April 30, 2003 from A$187,000 for the three months ended April 30, 2002, due to a marginal reduction in the performance of Bromic Pty Limited offset by the inclusion of Renegade Gas Pty Limited.
Interest expense decreased by A$20,000 to A$487,000 for the three months ended April 30, 2003 from A$507,000 for the three months ended April 30, 2002 due to lower interest rates and a reduction in long term debt.
Other expense increased from A$nil to approximately A$4.3 million due to a charge of A$4.0 million relating specifically to the previously announced downsizing of our manufacturing operations in Sydney, Australia and A$0.3 million due to a temporary worker’s physical damages claim which did not enjoy insurance cover as a result of our former insurance provider having been placed into liquidation as outlined on page 15. The aforementioned claim is now the subject of a court appeal by the Company.
Our effective tax rate was 30.3% (benefit) in the three months ended April 30, 2003 as a result of using a linear rate, the exclusion from Australian taxation of equity in income of affiliates and the taxing of U.S.A. losses at the rate of 36%. During the comparable period in 2002, our effective tax rate was 30.5% (benefit) as a result of using a linear rate, the exclusion from Australian taxation of equity in income of affiliates and the taxing of U.S.A. losses at a rate of 40%.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
We have historically financed our operations through cash flow from operations and bank borrowings. We have access to a facility with the Australian and New Zealand Banking Group Limited (“ANZ”), (the “ANZ Facility”), up to A$55.8 million comprising real property loans in principal amount of A$8.5 million (secured by registered first mortgages over our respective freehold properties), overdraft, leasing, interchangeable and commercial bill acceptance discount facilities in principal amount of A$39.6 million and foreign currency and other facilities in principal amount of A$7.7 million. The ANZ Facility is secured by a first security interest over our present and future Australian assets and a second security interest (subordinate to a lien under the Merrill Lynch Facility as defined in the paragraph below), in all our assets in the United States. The ANZ Facility is further guaranteed by each of our subsidiaries, including The Galore Group (USA), Inc. and Barbeques Galore, Inc. (referred to collectively as “Galore USA”).
All committed facilities are provided subject to the standard Australian practice of regular annual review of required limits, our performance and the normal terms and conditions, including financial covenants, applicable to bank lending. Historically, we have renegotiated our credit facilities on similar terms and conditions and, as we are able to roll-over bank bills (generally taken out for periods varying from approximately 30 to 90 days), the outstanding balance relating to bank bills and property loans is classified as a non-current liability.
Barbeques Galore Inc., our U.S. operating subsidiary, has access to a credit facility with Merrill Lynch Business Financial Services, Inc., (“Merrill Lynch”). As currently in effect, such facility comprises a revolving line of credit in aggregate principal
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amount of US$1.0 million. Indebtedness under the revolving line of credit accrues interest at the 30-day commercial paper rate plus 2.70% and is payable monthly. The Merrill Lynch Facility is secured by a first security interest in all Galore U.S.A. present and future assets and is guaranteed by us and The Galore Group (USA), Inc., the parent of Barbeques Galore, Inc.
Our total long-term debt matures as follows:
(In A$ thousands) | |||
12 months ending April 30, | |||
2004 | $ | — | |
2005 | 28,576 | ||
$ | 28,576 | ||
Our operations have used cash flows in the three months ended April 30, 2003 and 2002 of A$6.4 million and A$4.5 million, respectively. The cash used in operating activities relates to an increase in inventories and receivables and pre-paid expenses, partially offset by an increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities.
Net cash flows used in investing activities for the three months ended April 30, 2003 and 2002, were A$0.4 million and A$1.2 million respectively. In Australia, cash flows used in investing activities resulted primarily from capital expenditures related to the new store opening at Myaree in Western Australia and the acquisition of various items of plant and equipment. In the United States, cash flows used in investing activities resulted primarily from capital expenditures related to the remodeling of two stores. Our approach for expansion in the USA remains cautious and at the present time, we do not anticipate opening any new stores during the current fiscal year.
The cash flows used in operations and investing activities have been largely sourced from long term borrowings under the ANZ and Merrill Lynch Facilities.
At April 30, 2003 we had working capital of A$47.8 million and maintained minimal amounts in cash and cash equivalents, relying instead on undrawn facilities under our borrowing arrangements with ANZ and Merrill Lynch.
We believe the ANZ and Merrill Lynch Facilities are sufficient to meet our presently anticipated working capital and capital expenditure requirements for at least the next twelve months.
There are no legal or economic restrictions on the ability of our USA subsidiaries to transfer funds to us in the form of cash dividends, loans or advances. We are subject to restrictions on the declaration or payment of dividends under the ANZ Facility as well as the Merrill Lynch Facility as defined above.
Risk Factors
The following are certain factors that you should consider when evaluating our business, financial conditions and results of operations. However, these factors are not exclusive and you are urged to consider the statements made elsewhere herein and in our other publicly filed documents.
Weakening economic conditions may have an adverse affect on our business and results of operation.
The success of our operations depends upon a number of factors related to consumer spending, including future economic conditions affecting disposable consumer income such as employment, business conditions, interest rates and taxation. If the economic conditions of 2002 were to continue, or deteriorate, consumer spending may decline, thereby adversely affecting our business and results of operations. These adverse affects may be exacerbated by the significant current regional concentration of our business in Australia and the Pacific West, Southwestern and East coast U.S. markets.
We face business, political and economic risk because we transact business outside of the United States.
Barbeques Galore, with its headquarters, non-U.S. stores, wholesale, and limited manufacturing and enameling operations in Australia, transacts a large proportion of its business in Australia and obtains a significant portion of its merchandise, parts and raw materials from China, Taiwan, Indonesia, Thailand, Italy and other markets outside of the United States and Australia. There are risks inherent in doing business in international markets, including:
• | tariffs; |
• | customs duties and other trade barriers; |
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• | difficulties in staffing and managing foreign operations; |
• | political instability, expropriation, nationalization and other political risks; |
• | foreign exchange controls, technology, export and import restrictions or prohibitions; |
• | the difficulties of compliance with foreign laws and regulations; |
• | delays from customs brokers or government agencies; |
• | seasonal reductions in business activity; |
• | subjection to multiple taxation regimes and potentially adverse tax consequences; |
• | acts of terrorism; |
• | actual or intended warfare; and |
• | medical issues such as Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (“SARS”). |
Any of these risks could materially adversely affect our business, operating results and financial condition.
We rely on a few significant vendors and suppliers who may discontinue selling to us at any time.
We purchase certain of our finished inventory and manufacturing parts and all of our raw materials from numerous vendors and suppliers and generally have no long-term purchase contracts with any vendor or supplier. During the twelve months ended January 31, 2003, we purchased inventory from over 500 vendors in the United States, Australia and Asia. In such period, approximately 25% of our merchandise purchases were obtained from our ten largest vendors. Although no vendor accounted for more than 5% of our merchandise purchases in such period, we consider certain barbecue brands to be significant to our business, especially in the United States. Also during such period and during the three months ended April 30, 2003, we purchased barbecue and home heater parts from over 90 suppliers in Asia, Australia and North America. No single supplier accounted for more than 5% of factory parts and raw material purchases during the twelve months ended January 31, 2003 other than Smorgan Sheet Metal Supplies Pty Limited (“SSMS”), a steel distributor, Austral Bronze Crane Copper Limited trading as Austral Wright Metals (“Austral”) and Bromic Pty Limited (“Bromic”), an Australian gas components importer, which accounted for approximately 16%, 12% and 8% respectively, of our factory parts and raw material purchases during this period and approximately 74% of our factory parts and raw material purchases were obtained from our ten largest suppliers. During the three months ended April 30, 2003, SMS, Austral, Bromic and Amcor Fibre Packaging Australasia, (a division of Amcor Packaging Australia Pty Limited), supplied us with approximately 25%, 16%, 6% and 6% respectively, of our factory parts and raw material purchases and we obtained approximately 78% of our factory parts and raw materials from our ten largest suppliers. Our results of operations could be adversely affected by a disruption in purchases from any of these key vendors or suppliers or from volatility in the prices of, or tariffs imposed on, such parts or raw materials, especially steel, which has fluctuated in the past. In addition, some of our key suppliers currently provide us with certain purchasing incentives, such as volume rebates and trade discounts. A reduction or discontinuance of these incentives could have an adverse effect on our business.
Foreign currency fluctuations could adversely affect our results.
We prepare our consolidated financial statements in Australian dollars but a substantial portion of our revenues and expenses are denominated in U.S. dollars and, to a lesser extent, other foreign currencies. Accordingly, we are subject to risks of currency exchange to the extent of currency fluctuations between the Australian dollar and the U.S. dollar or other currencies in which we transact our business. This currency imbalance has resulted in, and may continue to result in, foreign currency transaction gains and losses. Our Australian operations generally hedge a major portion of their imports against exchange rate fluctuations with respect to the Australian dollar.
In our U.S. operations, however, we have not and currently do not actively hedge against exchange rate fluctuations, as the vast majority of the U.S. operations’ purchases are transacted in U.S. dollars, although we may elect to do so in the future. Changes in exchange rates may have a material adverse effect on our net sales, cost of goods sold, gross profit and net (loss), any of which alone or in the aggregate may in turn have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition. Such currency issues could, thus, affect the market price for the American Depositary Shares (“ADSs”). We may pay dividends on the Ordinary Shares or the ADSs in the future and accordingly, the above exchange rate fluctuations would affect the conversion into U.S. dollars (for payment to holders of ADSs) by Morgan Guarantee Trust Company as the Depositary, of any cash dividends paid in Australian dollars on the Ordinary Shares represented by the ADSs.
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Intense competition in our market could prevent us from increasing or sustaining our revenues.
The retail and distribution markets for barbecues and our other product offerings are highly competitive in both the United States and Australia. Our retail operations compete against a wide variety of retailers, including mass merchandisers, discount or outlet stores, department stores, hardware stores, home improvement centers, specialty patio, fireplace or cooking stores, warehouse clubs, web sites and mail order companies. Our manufacturing and wholesale operations compete with many other manufacturers and distributors throughout the world, including high-volume manufacturers of barbecues and home heaters. We compete for retail customers primarily based on our broad assortment of competitively priced, quality products (including proprietary and exclusive products), convenience, customer service and the attractive presentation of merchandise within our stores and on our web site. Many of our competitors have greater financial, marketing, distribution and other resources than we do and, particularly in the United States, may have greater name recognition than us. Furthermore, the lack of significant barriers to entry into our segment of the retail industry may also result in new competition in the future. If we fail to compete effectively, we may be unable to increase our market share or our market share may decline, which could adversely affect our revenues.
Changing merchandise trends, consumer demands or product quality could adversely affect our sales.
Our success depends on our ability to anticipate and respond to changing merchandise trends and consumer demands in a timely manner. We believe we have benefited from a lifestyle trend towards consumers spending more quality time together in outdoor family gatherings and social activities. Any change in this trend could adversely affect consumer interest in our major product lines. Moreover, our products must appeal to a broad cross-section of consumers whose preferences (as to product features such as colors, styles, finishes and fuel types) cannot always be predicted with certainty and may change between sales seasons. If we misjudge either the market for our merchandise or our customers’ purchasing habits, we may experience a material decline in sales or be required to sell inventory at reduced margins. We could also suffer a loss of customer goodwill if our manufacturing sources or stores do not adhere to our quality control or service procedures or otherwise fail to ensure satisfactory quality of our products. These outcomes may have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition.
Our failure to maintain and upgrade core computer systems which operate and monitor all major aspects of our business could have a material adverse effect upon our business.
We rely on certain management information systems to obtain daily sales information from our stores and to operate and monitor all major aspects of our business.
Our Head Office Information Systems process all distribution, warehouse management, inventory control, purchasing, merchandising, financial and office automation applications. Each store has PC-based point-of-sale (“POS”) registers which manage all sales transactions and store based purchasing transactions. The store check out registers are networked to an In-Store Processor (“ISP”) located in the back office of each store. At the end of each day’s processing, the data from each register is consolidated onto the ISP which has an attached modem and which is polled daily to upload the data to the head office system. We rely upon our management information systems in operating and monitoring all major aspects of our business, including sales, gross profits, warehousing, distribution, purchasing, inventory control, financial accounting and human resources. Any disruption in the operation of our management information systems, or our failure to continue to upgrade, integrate or expend capital on such systems as our business expands, could have a material adverse effect upon our business, operating results and financial condition.
Failure to hire, train and retain competent managers and personnel could have a material adverse affect on our business.
When we embark on expansion, it will result in increased demand on our managerial, operational and administrative resources. The success of our operations depends on our ability to hire, train and retain competent managers and other personnel and to manage the systems and operational components when we grow. Our failure to attract and retain qualified management and personnel or appropriately adjust operational systems and procedures, would adversely affect our future operating results.
Our success depends on several of our directors, senior management and employees, and they may not remain with us in the future.
Our success is largely dependent on the efforts and abilities of our directors, senior management and employees, particularly Sam Linz, Chairman of the Board, Robert Gavshon, Deputy Chairman of the Board, John Price, Head of Product Management
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and Development and Director, and Sydney Selati, Director and President of Barbeques Galore, Inc., our U.S. operating subsidiary. These individuals have an average of 20 years of experience with us and have chief responsibility for the development of our current business. We do not have employment contracts with any of our directors, senior management and employees. The loss of the services of these individuals or other key employees could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition.
If we fail to execute certain operational changes, our ability to implement our business strategies would be adversely affected.
We have identified a number of areas in our operations in which improvement would have a significant impact on our business strategies. In addition, when we expand into new regions, we may need additional warehouse capacity. We may in the future, need to secure further distribution centers, expand our current warehouse facilities in the United States or utilize public warehousing space, in each case depending on availability and cost at such time. We cannot assure you as to whether or when we will be able to effect any expansion or replacement of distribution facilities, or any other necessary operational changes that may arise, or that we will not incur cost overruns or disruptions in our operations in connection therewith. Our failure to effect these and any other necessary operational changes on a timely basis would adversely affect our expense structure and, therefore, our business, financial condition and operating results.
Our revenues fluctuate from period to period and are subject to various factors including seasonality and weather.
Our business is subject to substantial seasonal variations which have caused and are expected to continue to cause our quarterly results of operations to fluctuate significantly. Historically, we have realized a major portion of our net sales and a substantial portion of our net income for the year during summer months and holiday seasons when consumers are more likely to purchase barbecue products, outdoor furniture, limited camping and other backyard products. In anticipation of our peak selling seasons (late spring and early summer), we substantially increase our inventory levels and hire a significant number of part-time and temporary employees. In non-peak periods, particularly in late winter in the United States and early fall in Australia, we regularly experience monthly losses. In order to partially offset the effects of seasonality, we operate in both the Southern and Northern hemispheres, which have opposite seasons and offer fireplace products and (in Australia) home heaters, in the fall and winter months. However, sales of any of our major product lines (in particular home heaters), may vary widely in peak seasons depending on, among other things, prevailing weather patterns, local climate conditions, actions by competitors and shifts in timing of holidays. Our quarterly and annual results of operations may also fluctuate significantly as a result of a variety of other factors, including the timing of new store openings, releases of new products and changes in merchandise mix throughout the year. We have in the past experienced quarterly losses, particularly in our fiscal first quarter, and expect to experience such losses in the future. Because of these fluctuations in operating results, the results of operations in any quarter are not necessarily indicative of the results that we may achieve for a full fiscal year or any future quarter. If for any reason our sales or gross profits during peak seasons or periods were substantially below expectations, our quarterly and annual results would be adversely affected.
We depend on third-party carriers to distribute our products.
We manufacture, or have manufactured for us, a substantial portion of the barbecues and home heaters that we sell in our stores. We distribute merchandise to our stores primarily from our distribution centers located at our headquarters in Australia, in Ontario, California and Charlotte, North Carolina. In distributing merchandise, we rely upon third-party sea carriers to ship our manufactured products from Australia and China, to the United States and from China to Australia, as well as third-party surface freight carriers to transport all of our merchandise from our distribution centers and warehouses to our stores. Accordingly, we are subject to numerous risks associated with the distribution of our merchandise, including:
• | mechanical risks; |
• | labor stoppages or strikes; |
• | inclement weather; |
• | import regulation; |
• | changes in fuel prices; and |
• | medical issues such as SARS. |
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In addition, we believe that, while our distribution facilities are sufficient to meet our current needs, we may need another distribution center or larger facilities in the United States or Australia to support the further growth and expansion of stores.
Our products and the personal use thereof are subject to certain government regulations which could influence product liability claims and impact the manner in which we distribute our products.
Many of our products use gas and flame and, consequently, are subject to regulation by authorities in both the United States and Australia in order to protect consumers, property and the environment. For example, our products and their personal use are subject to regulations relating to, among other things, the use of fire in certain locations (particularly restrictions relating to the availability or frequency of use of wood heating in homes and barbecues in apartments), restrictions on the sale or use of products that enhance burning potential such as lighter fluid, restrictions on the use of gas in specified locations (particularly restrictions relating to the use of gas containers in confined spaces) and restrictions on the use of wood burning heaters. Such regulations have had, and can be expected to have, an increasing influence on product claims, manufacturing, contents, packaging and heater usage. We cannot assure you that certain jurisdictions in which we operate will not impose additional restrictions on the sale or use of our products. Such restrictions may negatively impact our sales and cause our business to suffer.
Failure of our franchisees and licensees to adhere to our standards could adversely affect customer loyalty and diminish our brand name and reputation.
As of April 30, 2003, there were 50 licensed stores in Australia and nine franchised stores in the United States, all of which are operated under the “Barbeques Galore” name by independent licensees or franchisees to whom we sell proprietary and other store products, and provide support services. The licensees and franchisees operate such stores pursuant to agreements which typically permit licensees and franchisees to assign the agreements to their immediate family and provide the licensees and franchisees with exclusive geographical sales territories. We monitor our licensed and franchised stores to assure their conformity to our standards and image and require the licensees and franchisees to comply with Barbeques Galore’s merchandising and advertising guidelines. Serious or protracted failures by licensees or franchisees to adhere to our standards could adversely affect customer loyalty and diminish our brand name or reputation for quality products and services, and could require us to devote significant management attention and resources to enforcing our rights under such agreements. Conversely, if we fail to provide adequate support services or otherwise breach our contractual obligations to any licensee or franchisee, such failure or breach could result in termination of, or litigation relating to, the relevant licensing or franchise agreement and the loss of fees and sales revenue.
The majority of the licensing agreements in Australia are terminable at will (absent fraud) by the licensees only, generally upon 90 days’ notice.
Product liability claims could materially adversely affect our customer relations and costs.
Failure of a product could give rise to product liability claims if customers, employees or third parties are injured or any of their property is damaged while using one or more of our products. Such injury could be caused, for example, by a gas valve malfunction, gas leak or an unanticipated flame-up resulting in injury to persons and/or property. In the event of such an occurrence, we could incur substantial litigation expense, receive adverse publicity, suffer a loss of sales or all or any of the foregoing. Even if such circumstances were beyond our control, our business, operating results and financial condition could be materially adversely affected. Although we maintain liability insurance in both Australia and the United States, we cannot assure you that such insurance will provide sufficient coverage in any particular case.
Our manufacturing and enameling operations are subject to government regulations.
Our barbecue and home heater manufacturing and enameling operations are subject to regulations governing product safety and quality, the discharge of materials hazardous to the environment, water usage, workplace safety and labor relations. Our distribution facilities are also subject to workplace safety and labor relations regulations. As a barbecue and barbecue accessories store, we sell lighter fluid, lighters, matches and similar products which may be considered flammable when in contact with open flame or activated. Our sale of certain products may result in technical violations of certain of our leases which prohibit the sale of flammable materials in or on the leased premises. Over our operating history, we have made our landlords aware that we sell these products. To date, no landlord has terminated or threatened termination of any lease due to these sales. Violations of these regulations and restrictions could have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results or financial condition.
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One of our former insurance providers has been placed into liquidation and the impact of this on our insurance coverage is unclear.
We placed a major portion of our insurance policies with HIH Casualty and General Insurance Limited (“HIH”) during the 12 months ended June 30, 2001 and earlier periods. HIH Insurance Limited and 17 of its subsidiaries (“HIH Group”) have been placed into liquidation. We have replaced these insurance policies with other insurers and have three claims against us on foot as at date hereof in relation to the period during which we were covered by HIH, the outcome of which, in the opinion of management, is not likely to have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition. Furthermore, to the best of our knowledge and belief, we are unaware of any further material claims which may arise against us in relation to any events during the period we were covered by HIH. It is also unknown at this stage when and what amounts, if any, would be recoverable from the Liquidators of the HIH Group were such claims to arise.
Restrictions On Foreign Ownership; Antitakeover Restrictions
Under Australian law, foreign persons are prohibited from acquiring more than a limited percentage of the shares in an Australian company without approval from the Australian Treasurer (the “Treasurer”) or in certain other limited circumstances. These limitations are set forth in the Australian Foreign Acquisitions and Takeovers Act (the “Takeovers Act”). Under the Takeovers Act, as currently in effect, any foreign person, together with associates, is prohibited from acquiring 15% or more of our outstanding shares (or else the Treasurer may make an order requiring the acquiror to dispose of those shares within a specified period of time). In addition, if a foreign person acquires our shares and as a result the total holdings of all foreign persons and their associates exceeds 40% in the aggregate without the approval of the Treasurer, then the Treasurer may make an order requiring the acquiror to dispose of those shares within a specified time if the Treasurer finds that the acquisition is contrary to the national interest. The same rule applies if the total holdings of all foreign persons and their associates already exceeds 40% and a foreign person (or our associate) acquires any further shares, including in the course of trading, shares acquired in the secondary market of the ADSs. In addition, if the level of foreign ownership exceeds 40% at any time, we would be considered a foreign person under the Takeovers Act. In such event, we would be required to obtain the approval of the Treasurer for us, together with our associates, to acquire (i) more than 15% of an Australian company or business with assets totaling over A$50 million or (ii) any direct or indirect ownership interest in Australian urban real estate. In addition, the percentage of foreign ownership of Barbeques Galore would also be included in determining the foreign ownership of any Australian company or business in which we may choose to invest. Since we have no current plans for any such acquisitions and only own commercial property, any such approvals that we may be required to obtain as a foreign person under the Takeovers Act will not affect our current or planned future ownership or lease of property in Australia. However, there would be no material tax consequence to our shareholders (including holders of ADSs) resulting from our being deemed a foreign person under the Takeovers Act. If foreign persons or their associates were to own all of the ADSs then the level of foreign ownership of our equity securities would be approximately 67.2%. The level of foreign ownership could also increase in the future if existing Australian investors decide to sell their shares into the U.S. market or if we were to sell additional Ordinary Shares or ADSs in the future.
We have additionally provided that all stock options outstanding under our 1997 Share Option Plan (the “1997 Plan”) at such time as we are acquired by merger or asset sale pursuant to which such stock options are not assumed or replaced by the successor corporation shall become immediately exercisable for a period of one (1) year (or until the expiration of the stock option term, if earlier). There are 563,104 Ordinary Shares underlying stock options granted under our 1997 Plan, which, barring acceleration, became/will become exercisable as to 155,450 in three equal installments on November 9, 2001 and 2002, (none of which were exercised) and October 9, 2003, as to 140,516 in three equal installments on January 7, 2003, (none of which were exercised), January 7, 2004 and December 7, 2004, as to 84,686 in full at any time on or after July 1, 2002, (none of which have been exercised), as to 64,100 in full at any time on or after January 1, 2003, (none of which have been exercised), and as to 118,352 in full at any time on or after July 1, 2002, (none of which have been exercised), according to the terms of the 1997 Plan. Such investment restrictions and dilutive acceleration events discussed above could have a material adverse effect on our ability to raise capital as needed and could make more difficult or render impossible, attempts by certain entities (especially foreign entities, in the case of the Takeovers Act), to acquire us, including attempts that might result in a premium over market price to holders of ADSs.
Our Constitution contains certain provisions that could impede any merger, consolidation, takeover or other business combination involving us or discourage a potential acquiror from making a tender offer or otherwise attempting to obtain control of us. Provisions contained in the Constitution, among other things:
• | in effect divide the Board of Directors into three classes, which serve for staggered three-year terms; |
• | provide that the shareholders may amend or repeal special resolutions, including changes to the Constitution and extraordinary transactions, only by a vote of at least 75% of the votes cast at a meeting at which a quorum is present; |
• | require extended notice (of up to 28 days) for special resolutions considered by the Board of Directors; and |
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• | authorize the Board of Directors, without any vote or action by our shareholders, to issue, out of our authorized and unissued capital shares, shares in different classes, or with special, preferred or deferred rights, which may relate to voting, dividend, return of capital or any other matter. |
Although we currently have no plans to issue any preferred shares, the rights of the holders of Ordinary Shares or ADSs will be subject to, and may be adversely affected by, the rights of the holders of any preferred or senior shares that may be issued in the future. The issuance of any preferred or senior shares, and the other provisions of the Constitution referred to above, could have the effect of making it more difficult for a third-party to acquire control of us.
In certain circumstances, non-residents of Australia may be subject to Australian tax on capital gains made on the disposal of Ordinary Shares or ADSs. The rate of Australian tax on capital gains realized by non-residents of Australia is 30% for companies for the 2003 income year (which for most taxpayers is the year ending June 30, 2003). For individuals, the rate of tax increases from 29% to a maximum of 47%. However, if the Ordinary Shares or ADSs are held for 12 months or more, an individual should be entitled to an exemption of 50% of the otherwise taxable capital gain.
There are no legal or economic restrictions on the ability of our USA subsidiaries to transfer funds to us in the form of cash dividends, loans or advances. We are subject to restrictions on the declaration or payment of dividends under the ANZ Facility as well as the Merrill Lynch Facility as defined on page 10.
ITEM 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
Market risks relating to our operations result primarily from changes in interest rates and changes in foreign exchange rates.
Foreign Currency Market Risk
Our functional currency is the Australian dollar although we transact a portion of our business in foreign currencies and accordingly we have foreign currency exposure through our sales in the United States and purchases from overseas suppliers in U.S. dollars. We also have foreign currency exposure through our sales in the United Kingdom in Pounds sterling.
Our Australian operations generally hedge a major portion of their imports against exchange rate fluctuations with respect to the Australian dollar. In our U.S. operations, however, we have not and currently do not actively hedge against exchange rate fluctuations, as the vast majority of the U.S. operations’ purchases are transacted in U.S. dollars, although we may elect to do so in the future. Accordingly, changes in exchange rates may have a material adverse effect on our net sales, cost of goods sold, gross profit and net (loss), any of which alone or in the aggregate may in turn have a material adverse effect on our business, operating results and financial condition.
We utilize foreign currency forward contracts used as a means of offsetting fluctuations in the dollar value of foreign currency accounts payable. The counterparties to the contracts are major financial institutions and the risk of loss to us in the event of non-performance by a counterparty, is not significant. The notional amount of foreign currency forward contracts and the weighted average rates, are as follows:
January 31, 2003 | April 30, 2003 | January 31, 2003 | April 30, 2003 | |||||||
(weighted average rate) | (in A$ thousands) | |||||||||
Buy U.S. dollars | ||||||||||
Not later than one year | 0.5632 | 0.6123 | $ | 473 | $ | 5,716 | ||||
Sell Pounds sterling | ||||||||||
Not later than one year | 0.3529 | 0.3527 | $ | 2,975 | $ | 1,548 | ||||
The fair value of foreign currency contracts as of April 30, 2003 is A$51,135.
Interest Rate Risk
Because we have long-term debt under the facilities with ANZ and Merrill Lynch, we are exposed to changes in interest rates.
The ANZ facility includes bank bills which are generally taken out for periods varying from approximately 30 to 90 days and rolled over at the end of their respective terms. Overseas purchases are generally refinanced for periods varying up to 162 days. As of January 31, 2003 and April 30, 2003 the weighted average interest rates accruing on the bank bills utilized under the ANZ Facility were as follows:
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January 31, 2003 | April 30, 2003 | January 31, 2003 | April 30, 2003 | |||||||
(in A$ thousands) | (interest rate per annum) | |||||||||
Bank bills | $ | 12,682 | $ | 20,126 | 5.8% | 5.9% | ||||
Property loans | 8,450 | 8,450 | 6.9% to 7.5% | 6.9% to 7.5% |
As of April 30, 2003 the Merrill Lynch facility comprises a revolving line of credit amounting to US$1.0 million. Indebtedness under the revolving line of credit accrues interest at the 30-day commercial paper rate plus 2.70% and is payable monthly.
Our total long-term debt matures as follows:
(In A$ thousands) | |||
12 months ending April 30, | |||
2004 | $ | — | |
2005 | 28,576 | ||
$ | 28,576 | ||
The difference between the carrying value and fair value of long-term debt is not significant.
OTHER INFORMATION
There are no material legal proceedings pending against us. We are involved in various claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business. In the opinion of management, the ultimate disposition of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations or financial condition.
ITEM 2. Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds
None.
ITEM 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities
None.
ITEM 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders
None.
None.
ITEM 6. Exhibits and Current Reports on Form 6-K
(a) Exhibits
Exhibit Number | ||
3.1 | Memorandum and Articles of Association. (1) | |
4.1 | Form of Specimen of American Depositary Receipt. (1) | |
4.2 | Form of Deposit Agreement among the Registrant, Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York, as Depositary, and holders from time to time of ADSs issued thereunder. (1) |
(1) | Previously filed in the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 (Registration No. 333-56805), filed with the Commission on June 12, 1998, and incorporated herein by reference. |
(b) There were no current reports on Form 6-K filed during the quarter ended April 30, 2003.
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Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly authorized this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
BARBEQUES GALORE LIMITED | ||||||
June 13, 2003 | By: | /s/ ROBERT GAVSHON | ||||
Robert Gavshon Deputy Chairman of the Board of Directors and General Counsel |
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Table of Contents
Exhibit Number | ||
3.1 | Memorandum and Articles of Association.(1) | |
4.1 | Form of Specimen of American Depositary Receipt.(1) | |
4.2 | Form of Deposit Agreement among the Registrant, Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York, as Depositary, and holders from time to time of ADSs issued thereunder.(1) |
(1) | Previously filed in the Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 (Registration No. 333-56805), filed with the Commission on June 12, 1998, and incorporated herein by reference. |
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