CAUTIONARY STATEMENT CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
This report and the exhibits attached hereto contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws, including the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 (Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934). Such statements are inherently subject to risks and uncertainties. Further, forward looking statements are intended to speak only as of the date on which they are made, and we disclaim any duty to update such statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that include projections, expectations or beliefs about future events or results or otherwise are not statements of historical fact. Such statements are often but not always characterized by qualifying words such as “expect,” “believe,” “estimate,” “plan” and “project” and their derivatives, and include but are not limited to statements about expectations for our future operations, production levels, sales, profit margins, profitability, operating income, SG&A or other expenses, pre-tax income, earnings, cash flow, and other performance or liquidity measures, as well as any statements regarding future economic or industry trends or future developments. Factors that could influence the matters discussed in such statements include the level of housing starts and sales of existing homes, consumer confidence, trends in disposable income, and general economic conditions. Decreases in these economic indicators could have a negative effect on our business and prospects. Likewise, increases in interest rates, particularly home mortgage rates, and increases in consumer debt or the general rate of inflation, could affect us adversely. Changes in consumer tastes or preferences toward products not produced by us could erode demand for our products. Changes in the value of the U.S. dollar versus other currencies can affect our financial results because a significant portion of our operations are located outside the United States. Strengthening of the U.S. dollar against other currencies could make our products less competitive on the basis of price in markets outside the United States, and strengthening of currencies in Canada and China can have a negative impact on our sales of products produced in those places. Also, economic and political instability in international areas could affect our operations or sources of goods in those areas, as well as demand for our products in international markets. Further information about these factors, as well as other factors that could affect our future operations or financial results and the matters discussed in forward-looking statements, is included in Item 1A “Risk Factors” section in our Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 11, 2014 for the fiscal year ended April 27, 2014.
| ITEM 2. | MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS |
The following analysis of financial condition and results of operations should be read in conjunction with the Financial Statements and Notes and other exhibits included elsewhere in this report.
General
Our fiscal year is the 52 or 53 week period ending on the Sunday closest to April 30. The three months ended August 3, 2014, and July 28, 2013, represent 14 and 13 week periods, respectively. Our operations are classified into two business segments: mattress fabrics and upholstery fabrics. The mattress fabrics segment manufactures, sources and sells fabrics and mattress covers to bedding manufacturers. The upholstery fabrics segment manufactures, sources, and sells fabrics primarily to residential furniture manufacturers.
We evaluate the operating performance of our segments based upon income from operations before certain unallocated corporate expenses and other non-recurring items. Cost of sales in both segments include costs to manufacture or source our products, including costs such as raw material and finished goods purchases, direct and indirect labor, overhead and incoming freight charges. Unallocated corporate expenses represent primarily compensation and benefits for certain executive officers and all costs related to being a public company.
Executive Summary
Results of Operations
| | | Three Months Ended | | | | |
| (dollars in thousands) | | August 3, 2014 | | | July 28, 2013 | | | % Change | |
| Net sales | | $ | 76,060 | | | $ | 70,141 | | | | 8.4 | % |
| Gross profit | | | 12,715 | | | | 13,074 | | | | (2.7 | )% |
| Gross profit margin | | | 16.7 | % | | | 18.6 | % | | | (10.2 | )% |
| SG&A expenses | | | 7,419 | | | | 7,100 | | | | 4.5 | % |
| Income from operations | | | 5,296 | | | | 5,974 | | | | (11.3 | )% |
| Operating margin | | | 7.0 | % | | | 8.5 | % | | | (17.6 | )% |
| Income before income taxes | | | 5,459 | | | | 5,535 | | | | (1.4 | )% |
| Income taxes | | | 2,115 | | | | 2,305 | | | | (8.2 | )% |
| Net income | | | 3,344 | | | | 3,230 | | | | 3.5 | % |
Net Sales
Our net sales for the first quarter of fiscal 2015 increased as compared with the same period a year ago. The first quarter of fiscal 2015 had 14 weeks compared to 13 weeks for the first quarter of fiscal 2014. Our net sales in the first quarter of 2015 were in line with our expectations, as we continued to experience favorable customer response to our designs and wide range of products in both our business segments. Product innovation and creativity will continue to be a top strategic priority in fiscal 2015. In addition, our scalable and flexible manufacturing platform supports our ability to compete in a fashion-driven business that is always changing.
Income Before Income Taxes
Although our net sales increased over last fiscal year as noted above, our income before income taxes was flat in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to the same period a year ago. During the first quarter of fiscal 2015, our income from operations and gross profit and operating margins declined. This decline in profitability was due in large part to short-term production challenges associated with our mattress fabrics segment caused by increased demand for premium mattress fabrics. Additionally, the profitability of our upholstery fabrics segment was affected by product mix, higher operational costs associated with our operations located in China, and lower business volume associated with our Culp Europe operation located in Poland.
The decline in income from operations was partially offset by the improvement in other income (expense) in the first quarter of fiscal 2015. We reported other income of $89,000 during the first quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to other expense of $391,000 during the first quarter of fiscal 2014. This improvement is primarily due to foreign currency exchange gains associated with our operations located in China totaling $199,000 in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to foreign currency exchange losses totaling $91,000 in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. In addition, this improvement reflects a non-recurring charge of $206,000 recorded in the first quarter of fiscal 2014 for the settlement of litigation relating to environmental claims associated with a closed facility.
See the Segment Analysis section located in the Results of Operations for further details.
Liquidity
At August 3, 2014, our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments totaled $31.0 million and exceeded our total debt (current maturities of long-term debt, long-term debt, and line of credit) of $5.0 million. After the end of our first quarter, we paid our required annual principal payment of $2.2 million associated with our unsecured senior term notes. As a result, we currently have one remaining annual $2.2 million principal payment due August 2015 and total debt of $2.8 million.
Our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments decreased from $35.6 million at April 27, 2014, as a result of spending $6.1 million on dividend payments and common stock repurchases, $2.3 million on capital expenditures, and $984,000 on long-term investment purchases associated with our Rabbi Trust that is partially funding our deferred compensation plan. This spending was partially offset by net cash provided by operating activities of $4.1 million.
Dividend Program
On June 12, 2014, we announced that our board of directors approved the payments of a special cash dividend of $0.40 per share and a quarterly cash dividend of $0.05 per share. These dividend payments were paid on July 15, 2014, to shareholders of record on July 1, 2014. During the first quarter of fiscal 2015, dividend payments totaled $5.5 million, of which $4.9 million represented the special cash dividend payment of $0.40 per share, and $611,000 represented the quarterly dividend payment of $0.05 per share.
During the first quarter of fiscal 2014, we paid a quarterly dividend of $0.04 per share or $489,000.
On September 4, 2014, we announced that our board of directors approved the payment of a quarterly cash dividend of $0.05 per share. This payment will be made on October 15, 2014, to shareholders of record as of October 1, 2014.
Future dividend payments are subject to board approval and may be adjusted at the board’s discretion as business needs or market conditions change.
Common Stock Repurchase Program
On February 25, 2014, we announced that our board of directors approved an authorization for us to acquire up to $5.0 million of our common stock. Under the common stock repurchase program, shares may be purchased from time to time in open market transactions, block trades, through plans established under the Securities Exchange Act Rule 10b5-1, or otherwise. The amount of shares purchased and the timing of such purchases will be based on working capital requirements, market and general business conditions, and other factors including alternative investment opportunities.
During the first quarter of fiscal 2015, we repurchased 32,269 shares of our common stock at a cost of $556,000. During the first quarter of fiscal 2014, we did not repurchase any shares of common stock.
Since June 2011, we have returned a total of $26.2 million to shareholders in the form of regular quarterly and special dividend payments and common stock share repurchases.
Segment Analysis
Mattress Fabrics Segment
| | | Three Months Ended | | | | |
| (dollars in thousands) | | August 3, 2014 | | | July 28, 2013 | | | % Change | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
| Net sales | | $ | 42,822 | | | $ | 38,164 | | | | 12.2 | % |
| Gross profit | | | 7,202 | | | | 7,392 | | | | (2.6 | )% |
| Gross profit margin | | | 16.8 | % | | | 19.4 | % | | | (13.4 | )% |
| SG&A expenses | | | 2,574 | | | | 2,374 | | | | 8.4 | % |
| Income from operations | | | 4,629 | | | | 5,018 | | | | (7.8 | )% |
| Operating margin | | | 10.8 | % | | | 13.1 | % | | | (17.6 | )% |
Net Sales
The increase in mattress fabric net sales reflects a 14-week period in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to a 13-week period in the first quarter of fiscal 2014 and higher demand from customers. We are continuing to capitalize on the growing consumer demand for better designed bedding products, with many of our customers looking for more fashionable and decorative mattress fabrics and covers. We believe we are well positioned to capitalize on this trend with our scalable manufacturing platform and reactive capacity that supports our ability to deliver a diverse product mix in line with consumer demand.
Gross Profit and Operating Income
Although our net sales increased over last fiscal year as noted above, our income from operations and gross profit and operating margins declined. Since the end of fiscal 2014, we have continued to experience increased demand for premium decorative mattress fabrics, which has amplified our production complexity. As expected, we had short-term production challenges during the first quarter related to this growth. In order to meet our customer delivery commitments, we incurred additional overtime expenses that affected our profit margins for the quarter. We also utilized contract suppliers to ensure we could meet this higher demand.
As previously announced, in order to meet this growing demand and to improve our efficiency and throughput, we are currently underway with a $9.5 million expansion plan to increase our production capacity and finishing capabilities. As we continue to work through this constrtuction phase, we are experiencing some typical disruptions and space constraints as we move equipment and people to accomodate the build-out. This ongoing activity has required additional overtime hours to meet our production schedules. Currently, we expect to complete our expansion plan in the second half of fiscal 2015. Upon completion of this expansion plan, we believe our gross profit and operating margins will improve in the second half of fiscal 2015 compared with the first half of fiscal 2015.
During the first quarter of fiscal 2015, we continued to make progress with the efficiency of our mattress cover operation. With the initial set up, staffing, and training complete, we believe this operation will continue to show steady growth and make a positive contribution to our business.
Segment assets
Segment assets consist of accounts receivable, inventory, property, plant and equipment, goodwill, a non-compete agreement and customer relationships associated with an acquisition.
| | | | | | | |
| (dollars in thousands) | | August 3, 2014 | | | July 28, 2013 | | | April 27, 2014 | |
| Accounts receivable and inventory | | $ | 37,970 | | | $ | 35,718 | | | $ | 36,229 | |
| Property, plant & equipment | | | 29,604 | | | | 28,552 | | | | 29,040 | |
| Goodwill | | | 11,462 | | | | 11,462 | | | | 11,462 | |
| Non-compete agreement | | | 1,035 | | | | 1,061 | | | | 1,041 | |
| Customer Relationships | | | 804 | | | | 855 | | | | 817 | |
Accounts Receivable & Inventory
As of August 3, 2014, accounts receivable and inventory for this segment increased 6% compared with July 28, 2013. This increase is primarily due to the increase in net sales in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 noted above and fewer mattress fabric customers taking advantage of sales discounts in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2014.
As of August 3, 2014, accounts receivable and inventory for this segment increased 5% compared with April 27, 2014. This increase is primarily due to the increase in this segment’s inventory levels as a result of current and expected demand trends as of the end of the first quarter of fiscal 2015.
Property, Plant & Equipment
The $29.6 million at August 3, 2014, represents property, plant and equipment of $21.2 million and $8.4 million located in the U.S. and Canada, respectively. The $28.6 million at July 28, 2013, represents property, plant, and equipment of $20.7 million and $7.9 million located in the U.S. and Canada, respectively. The $29.0 million at April 27, 2014, represents property, plant, and equipment of $20.6 million and $8.4 million located in the U.S. and Canada, respectively.
Upholstery Fabrics Segment
Net Sales
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| | | | | | Three Months Ended | | | | | | | |
| (dollars in thousands) | | August 3, 2014 | | | | | | July 28,2013 | | | | | | % Change | |
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Non U.S. Produced | | $ | 30,457 | | | | 92 | % | | $ | 29,986 | | | | 94 | % | | | 1.6 | % |
| U.S. Produced | | | 2,781 | | | | 8 | % | | | 1,991 | | | | 6 | % | | | 39.7 | % |
| Total | | | 33,238 | | | | 100 | % | | | 31,977 | | | | 100 | % | | | 3.9 | % |
The first quarter of fiscal 2015 had 14-weeks compared to 13-weeks in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. We are pleased with our net sales performance for the first quarter of fiscal 2015, especially when compared with the exceptionally high net sales level in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. Notably, we increased our sales of cut and sewn kits in the first quarter of fiscal 2015, reflecting increased demand for this product category.
The key drivers of our net sales performance continue to be our designs and product innovation. As a result, we continue to see favorable response from our key customers, especially for our latest product introductions.
We have continued to pursue marketing strategies to diversify our customer base. Our 100% owned China platform supports our marketing efforts and allows us to quickly adapt to changing market trends and consumer style preferences. Our China produced fabrics accounted for 92% of our upholstery fabric net sales during the first quarter of fiscal 2015, reflecting our ability to offer a diverse product mix of fabric styles at different price points. Our product diversity has also allowed us to target additional end-user markets for upholstery fabrics, including the recreational vehicle and hospitality markets.
Gross Profit, Selling, General & Administrative Expenses, and Operating Income
| | | Three Months Ended | | | | |
| (dollars in thousands) | | August 3, 2014 | | | July 28, 2013 | | | % Change | |
| | | | | | | | | | |
| Gross profit | | $ | 5,513 | | | $ | 5,682 | | | | (3.0 | )% |
| Gross profit margin | | | 16.6 | % | | | 17.8 | % | | | (6.7 | )% |
| SG&A expenses | | | 3,452 | | | | 3,266 | | | | 5.7 | % |
| Income from operations | | | 2,060 | | | | 2,416 | | | | (14.7 | )% |
| Operating margin | | | 6.2 | % | | | 7.6 | % | | | (18.4 | )% |
Although our net sales increased over last fiscal year as noted above, our income from operations and gross profit and operating margins declined. Our profitability was affected primarily by product mix, higher operational costs associated with our operations located in China, and lower business volume associated with our Culp Europe operation located in Poland.
Culp Europe
Although currently an immaterial part of our business, we are continuing our efforts to develop sales in Europe. Although we remain optimistic about the future opportunities for us in Europe to support our global sales effort, we are assessing the future strategy in light of the current challenging business conditions.
Segment Assets
Segment assets consist of accounts receivable, inventory, and property, plant, and equipment.
| | | | | | | |
| (dollars in thousands) | | August 3, 2014 | | | July 28, 2013 | | | April 27, 2014 | |
| Accounts receivable and inventory | | $ | 27,957 | | | $ | 30,545 | | | $ | 31,854 | |
| Property, plant & equipment | | | 1,580 | | | | 1,549 | | | | 1,573 | |
Accounts Receivable & Inventory
As of August 3, 2014, accounts receivable and inventory for this segment decreased 8% compared with July 28, 2013, and 12% compared with April 27, 2014. These trends are due to the timing of cash receipts on outstanding customer invoices due to the 14-week period in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 compared with the 13-week period in the first quarter of fiscal 2014 and improved inventory management.
Property, Plant & Equipment
The $1.6 million at August 3, 2014, represents property, plant, and equipment located in the U.S. of $911, located in China of $627, and located in Poland of $42. The $1.5 million at July 28, 2013, represents property, plant, and equipment located in the U.S. of $1.1 million, located in China of $371, and located in Poland of $53. The $1.6 million at April 27, 2014, represents property, plant, and equipment located in the U.S. of $957, located in China of $572, and located in Poland of $44.
Other Income Statement Categories
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
SG&A expenses for the company as a whole were relatively flat in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2014. SG&A expenses were $7.4 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2015 compared with $7.1 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2014. As a percent of net sales, SG&A expenses were 9.8% in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 compared with 10.1% in the first quarter of fiscal 2014.
Interest Expense
Interest expense for the first quarter of fiscal 2015 was $68,000 compared to $140,000 for the first quarter of fiscal 2014. This trend primarily reflects lower outstanding balances of long-term debt. Also, this trend reflects interest costs of $30,000 for the mattress fabric expansion plan that were capitalized during the first quarter of fiscal 2015. These interest costs will be depreciated over the related assets’ useful lives. No interest costs were capitalized during the first quarter of fiscal 2014.
Interest Income
Interest income was $142,000 for the first quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to $92,000 for the first quarter of fiscal 2014. This trend reflects higher cash and cash equivalent and short-term investment balances held with our foreign subsidiaries during the first quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to the first quarter of fiscal 2014. Cash and cash equivalents and short-term investment balances held by our foreign subsidiaries earn higher interest rates as compared to our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investment balances held in the United States.
Other Income (Expense)
Other income for the first quarter of fiscal 2015 was $89,000 compared to other expense of $391,000 during the first quarter of fiscal 2014. This improvement is primarily due to foreign currency exchange gains associated with our operations located in China totaling $199,000 in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to foreign currency exchange losses totaling $91,000 in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. We have been able to mitigate the effects of foreign exchange rate fluctuations associated with our subsidiaries domiciled in Canada and Poland through maintenance of a natural hedge by keeping a balance of assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies other than the U.S. dollar. Although we will continue to try and maintain this natural hedge, there is no assurance that we will be able to continue to do so in the future reporting periods.
In addition, the improvement reflects a non-recurring charge of $206,000 recorded in the first quarter of fiscal 2014 for the settlement of litigation relating to environmental claims associated with a closed facility.
Income Taxes
Effective Income Tax Rate
We recorded income tax expense of $2.1 million, or 38.7% of income before income tax expense, for the three month period ended August 3, 2014, compared to income tax expense of $2.3 million, or 41.6% of income before income tax expense, for the three month period ended July 28, 2013. Our effective income tax rates for the three month periods ended August 3, 2014 and July 28, 2013 were based upon the estimated effective income tax rate applicable for the full year after giving effect to any significant items related specifically to interim periods. The effective income tax rate can be affected over the fiscal year by the mix and timing of actual earnings from our U.S. operations and foreign sources versus annual projections and changes in foreign currencies in relation to the U.S. dollar.
The income tax expense for the three month period ended August 3, 2014 is different from the amount obtained by applying our statutory rate of 34% to income before income taxes for the following reasons:
| ● | The income tax rate decreased by 6% for taxable income subject to lower statutory income tax rates in foreign jurisdictions (Canada and China) compared with the statutory income tax rate of 34% for the United States. |
| ● | The income tax rate increased by 5% for an increase in unrecognized tax benefits. |
| ● | The income tax rate increased by 5.7% for stock-based compensation and other miscellaneous items. |
The income tax expense for the three month period ended July 28, 2013 is different from the amount obtained by applying our statutory rate of 34% to income before income taxes for the following reasons:
| ● | The income tax rate increased 5% for adjustments primarily made to our state of North Carolina loss carryforwards for the decrease in future North Carolina corporate income tax rates commencing in fiscal 2015 and beyond. These adjustments totaled $273,000 and represented a discrete event in which the full tax effects were recorded in the first quarter of fiscal 2014. |
| ● | The income tax rate decreased by 6% for taxable income subject to lower statutory income tax rates in foreign jurisdictions (Canada and China) compared with the statutory income tax rate of 34% for the United States. |
| ● | The income tax rate increased 4% for an increase in unrecognized tax benefits. |
| ● | The income tax rate was increased by 4.6% for stock-based compensation and other miscellaneous items. |
Deferred Income Taxes
Valuation Allowance
In accordance with ASC Topic 740, we evaluate our deferred income taxes to determine if a valuation allowance is required. ASC Topic 740 requires that companies assess whether a valuation allowance should be established based on the consideration of all available evidence using a “more likely than not” standard, with significant weight being given to evidence that can be objectively verified. Since the company operates in multiple jurisdictions, we assess the need for a valuation allowance on a jurisdiction-by-jurisdiction basis, taking into account the effects of local tax law. Based on our assessment at August 3, 2014, we recorded a partial valuation allowance of $1.1 million, of which $666,000 pertained to certain U.S. state net operating loss carryforwards and credits and $419,000 pertained to loss carryfowards associated with our Culp Europe operation located in Poland. Based on our assessment at July 28, 2013, we recorded a partial valuation allowance of $1.1 million, of which $722,000 pertained to certain U.S. state net operating loss carryforwards and credits and $328,000 pertained to loss carryfowards associated with our Culp Europe operation located in Poland. Based on our assessment at April 27, 2014, we recorded a partial valuation allowance of $977,000, of which $666,000 pertained to certain U.S. state net operating loss carryforwards and credits and $311,000 pertained to loss carryfowards associated with our Culp Europe operation located in Poland.
No valuation allowance was recorded against our net deferred tax assets associated with our operations located in China and Canada at August 3, 2014, July 28, 2013, and April 27, 2014, respectively.
The recorded valuation allowance of $1.1 million at August 3, 2014, has no effect on our operations, loan covenant compliance, or the possible realization of certain U.S. state net operating loss carryforwards and credits and our loss carryforwards associated with our Culp Europe operation located in Poland. If it is determined that it is more-likely-than-not that we will realize any of these deferred tax assets, an income tax benefit will be recognized at that time.
Undistributed Earnings
In accordance with ASC Topic 740, we assess whether the undistributed earnings from our foreign subsidiaries will be reinvested indefinitely or eventually distributed to our U.S. parent company. ASC Topic 740 requires that a deferred tax liability should be recorded for undistributed earnings from foreign subsidiaries that will not be reinvested indefinitely. Based on our assessment as of August 3, 2014, it is our intention not to permanently invest our undistributed earnings from our foreign subsidiaries. Also, we assess the recognition of U.S. foreign income tax credits associated with foreign withholding and income tax payments and whether it is more-likely-than-not that our foreign income tax credits will not be realized. If it is determined that any foreign income tax credits need to be recognized or it is more-likely-than-not our foreign income tax credits will not be realized, an adjustment to our provision for income taxes will be recognized at that time.
At August 3, 2014, the deferred tax liability associated with our undistributed earnings from our foreign subsidiaries totaled $2.1 million, which included U.S. income and foreign withholding taxes totaling $29.4 million, offset by U.S. foreign income tax credits of $27.3 million. At July 28, 2013, the deferred tax liability associated with our undistributed earnings from our foreign subsidiaries totaled $7.1 million, which included U.S. income and foreign withholding taxes totaling $22.3 million, offset by U.S. foreign income tax credits of $15.2 million. At April 27, 2014, the deferred tax liability associated with our undistributed earnings from our foreign subsidiaries totaled $2.0 million, which included U.S. income and foreign withholding taxes totaling $28.1 million, offset by U.S. foreign income tax credits of $26.1 million.
We had accumulated earnings from our foreign subsidiaries totaling $75.8 million, $57.5 million, and $72.8 million at August 3, 2014, July 28, 2013, and April 27, 2014, respectively.
Uncertainty In Income Taxes
At August 3, 2014, we had a $14.0 million total gross unrecognized tax benefit, of which $4.0 million represents the amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would favorably affect the income tax rate in future periods. At July 28, 2013, we had a $13.3 million total gross unrecognized tax benefit, of which $4.2 million represents the amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would favorably affect the income tax rate in future periods. At April 27, 2014, we had a $13.7 million total gross unrecognized tax benefit, of which $4.0 million represents the amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would favorably affect the income tax rate in future periods.
At August 3, 2014, we had a $14.0 million total gross unrecognized tax benefit, of which $10.0 million and $4.0 million were classified as net non-current deferred income taxes and income taxes payable – long-term, respectively, in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. At July 28, 2013, we had a $13.3 million total gross unrecognized tax benefit, of which $9.1 million and $4.2 million were classified as net non-current deferred income taxes and income taxes payable – long-term, respectively, in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets. At April 27, 2014, we had $13.7 million of total gross unrecognized tax benefit, of which $9.7 million and $4.0 million were classified as net non-current deferred income taxes and income taxes payable – long-term, respectively, in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets.
We estimate that the amount of gross unrecognized tax benefits will increase by approximately $802,000 for fiscal 2015. This increase primarily relates to double taxation under applicable tax treaties with foreign tax jurisdictions.
Income Taxes Paid
Although we reported income tax expense of $2.1 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 and $2.3 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2014, we are currently not paying income taxes in the United States due to our loss carryforwards totaling $45.7 million at April 27, 2014. As a result, we had income tax payments of $959,000 and $792,000 for the first quarter of fiscal 2015 and 2014, respectively. Our income tax payments are associated with our subsidiaries located in China and Canada.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Liquidity
Our sources of liquidity include cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, cash flow from operations, and amounts available under our unsecured revolving credit lines. These sources have been adequate for day-to-day operations, capital expenditures, debt payments, common stock repurchases, and dividend payments. We believe our present cash and cash equivalents and short-term investment balance of $31.0 million at August 3, 2014, cash flow from operations, and the current availability under our unsecured revolving credit lines will be sufficient to fund our foreseeable business needs and contractual obligations.
At August 3, 2014, our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments totaled $31.0 million and exceeded our total debt (current maturities of long-term debt, long-term debt, and line of credit) of $5.0 million. After the end of our first quarter, we paid our required annual principal payment of $2.2 million associated with our unsecured senior term notes. As a result, we currently have one remaining annual $2.2 million principal payment due August 2015 and total debt of $2.8 million.
Our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments decreased from $35.6 million at April 27, 2014, as a result of spending $6.1 million on dividend payments and common stock repurchases, $2.3 million on capital expenditures, and $984,000 on long-term investment purchases associated with our Rabbi Trust that is partially funding our deferred compensation plan. This spending was partially offset by net cash provided by operating activities of $4.1 million.
Our cash and cash equivalents and short-term investment balance may be adversely affected by factors beyond our control, such as weakening industry demand and delays in receipt of payment on accounts receivable.
Dividend Program
On June 12, 2014, we announced that our board of directors approved the payments of a special cash dividend of $0.40 per share and a quarterly cash dividend of $0.05 per share. These dividend payments were paid on July 15, 2014, to shareholders of record on July 1, 2014. During the first quarter of fiscal 2015, dividend payments totaled $5.5 million, of which $4.9 million represented the special cash dividend payment of $0.40 per share, and $611,000 represented the quarterly dividend payment of $0.05 per share.
During the first quarter of fiscal 2014, we paid a quarterly dividend of $0.04 per share or $489,000.
On September 4, 2014, we announced that our board of directors approved the payment of a quarterly cash dividend of $0.05 per share. This payment will be made on October 15, 2014, to shareholders of record as of October 1, 2014.
Future dividend payments are subject to board approval and may be adjusted at the board’s discretion as business needs or market conditions change.
Common Stock Repurchase Program
On February 25, 2014, we announced that our board of directors approved an authorization for us to acquire up to $5.0 million of our common stock. Under the common stock repurchase program, shares may be purchased from time to time in open market transactions, block trades, through plans established under the Securities Exchange Act Rule 10b5-1, or otherwise. The amount of shares purchased and the timing of such purchases will be based on working capital requirements, market and general business conditions, and other factors including alternative investment opportunities.
During the first quarter of fiscal 2015, we repurchased 32,269 shares of our common stock at a cost of $556,000. During the first quarter of fiscal 2014, we did not repurchase any shares of common stock.
Since June 2011, we have returned a total of $26.2 million to shareholders in the form of regular quarterly and special dividend payments and common stock share repurchases.
Working Capital
Accounts receivable at August 3, 2014, were $24.2 million compared with $24.5 million at July 28, 2013. Days’ sales outstanding were 29 days for the first quarter of fiscal 2015 and the first quarter of fiscal 2014.
Inventories as of August 3, 2014, were $41.7 million compared with $41.8 million at July 28, 2013. Inventory turns for the first quarter of fiscal 2015 were 6.0 compared with 5.6 for the first quarter of fiscal 2014.
Accounts payable-trade as of August 3, 2014, were $24.5 million, a decrease of $3.3 million, or 12%, compared with $27.8 million at July 28, 2013. This decrease primarily reflects the timing of our payments on outstanding vendor invoices due to the 14-week period in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to the 13-week period in the first quarter of fiscal 2014.
Operating working capital (comprised of accounts receivable and inventories, less accounts payable-trade and accounts payable-capital expenditures) was $41.3 million at August 3, 2014 compared with $38.4 million at July 28, 2013. Operating working capital turnover was 7.1 during the first quarter of fiscal 2015 and 2014.
Financing Arrangements
Unsecured Term Notes
We entered into a note agreement dated August 11, 2008 that provided for the issuance of $11.0 million of unsecured term notes with a fixed interest rate of 8.01% and a term of seven years. Principal payments of $2.2 million per year are due on the notes beginning August 11, 2011. The remaining principal payments are payable over an average term of one year through August 11, 2015. Any principal pre-payments would be assessed a penalty as defined in the agreement. The agreement contains customary financial and other covenants as defined in the agreement.
Revolving Credit Agreement – United States
We have an unsecured credit agreement with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. (“Wells Fargo”) that provides for an unsecured revolving loan commitment of $10.0 million to be used to finance working capital and general corporate purposes. The amount of borrowings that are outstanding under the credit agreement with Culp Europe noted below decrease the $10.0 million available. Interest is charged at a rate (applicable interest rate of 1.76%, 1.79%, and 1.75% at August 3, 2014, July 28, 2013, and April 27, 2014, respectively) equal to the one-month LIBOR rate plus a spread based on our ratio of debt to EBITDA as defined in the agreement. The credit agreement contains customary financial and other covenants as defined in the agreement and expires on August 31, 2015.
At August 3, 2014, July 28, 2013, and April 27, 2014, there was a $195,000 outstanding letter of credit (all of which related to workers compensation). At August 3, 2014, July 28, 2013, and April 27, 2014, there were no borrowings outstanding under the agreement.
Revolving Credit Agreement – China
We have an unsecured credit agreement associated with our operations in China that provides for a line of credit of up to 40 million RMB (approximately $6.5 million USD at August 3, 2014), expiring on May 9, 2015. This agreement has an interest rate determined by the Chinese government. There were no borrowings outstanding under the agreement as of August 3, 2014, July 28, 2013 and April 27, 2014.
Revolving Credit Agreement – Europe
As of April 27, 2014 and July 28, 2013, we had an unsecured credit agreement with Wells Fargo that bears interest at WIBOR (Warsaw Interbank Offered Rate) plus 2% (applicable interest rate of 4.38% and 4.625% at April 27, 2014 and July 28, 2013, respectively). There were $586,000 and $560,000 (1.8 million Polish Zloty) in borrowings outstanding under the agreement at April 27, 2014 and July 28, 2013, respectively.
Effective May 2, 2014, we converted our 1.8 million Polish Zloty denominated borrowings under the credit agreement to EURO denominated borrowings totaling €424,000 ($569,000 USD). In addition, our applicable interest rate was reduced to 2.31%.
In connection with the Wells Fargo credit agreement noted above, the outstanding borrowings totaling $569,000 at August 3, 2014, decrease the $10.0 million available under the credit agreement.
Overall
Our loan agreements require, among other things, that we maintain compliance with certain financial covenants. At August 3, 2014, the company was in compliance with these financial covenants.
At August 3, 2014, the principal payment requirements of long-term debt during the next two fiscal years are: 2015 – $2.2 million; and 2016 - $2.2 million.
Capital Expenditures and Depreciation
Capital expenditures on a cash basis were $2.3 million for the first quarter of 2015 compared with $884,000 for the first quarter of 2014. Capital expenditures for the first quarter of fiscal 2015 and 2014, were primarily related to our mattress fabrics segment.
In addition, we acquired equipment for our mattress fabrics segment totaling $890,000 in connection with the Bodet & Horst asset purchase agreement during the first quarter of the fiscal 2014.
Depreciation expense was $1.4 million and $1.3 million for the first quarter of fiscal 2015 and 2014, respectively. Depreciation expense for the first quarter of fiscal 2015 and 2014, is primarily related to the mattress fabrics segment.
For fiscal 2015, we currently expect capital expenditures to be approximately $10.0 million compared with $5.3 million in fiscal 2014 and $4.5 million in fiscal 2013. Planned capital expenditures for fiscal 2015 primarily relate to the announced mattress fabrics segment expansion plan. For fiscal 2015, depreciation expense is projected to be $6.0 million, which primarily relates to the mattress fabrics segment.
These are management’s current expectations only, and changes in our business needs could cause changes in plans for capital expenditures and expectations for related depreciation expense.
Critical Accounting Policies and Recent Accounting Developments
As of August 3, 2014, there were no changes in the nature of our significant accounting policies or the application of those policies from those reported in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 27, 2014.
Refer to Note 2 located in the notes to the consolidated financial statements for recently adopted and issued accounting pronouncements since the filing of our Form 10-K for the year ended April 27, 2014.
Contractual Obligations
As of August 3, 2014, there were no significant or new contractual obligations from those reported in our annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended April 27, 2014.
Inflation
Any significant increase in our raw material costs, utility/energy costs and general economic inflation could have a material adverse impact on the company, because competitive conditions have limited our ability to pass significant operating increases on to customers. As discussed in our Form 10-K for the year ended April 27, 2014 (see “Segment Analysis”), significant increases in raw material costs led to lower profit margins for both of our business segments during fiscal 2012.
ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
We are exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates on our revolving credit lines.
At August 3, 2014, our U.S. revolving credit agreement had an interest rate equal to the one-month LIBOR rate plus a spread based on our ratio of debt to EBITDA as defined in the agreement. Our revolving credit line associated with our China subsidiaries bears interest at a rate determined by the Chinese government. At August 3, 2014, there were no borrowings outstanding under our U.S. or China revolving credit lines.
At August 3, 2014 our unsecured credit agreement associated with our operation located in Poland currently bears interest at 2.31% and is denominated in EUROs. At August 3, 2014, we had outstanding borrowings of €424,000 or $569,000 USD, which is required to be paid in full by August 31, 2015, when the credit agreement expires.
We are not exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates on our long-term debt. Our unsecured term notes have a fixed interest rate of 8.01%.
We are exposed to market risk from changes in the value of foreign currencies for our subsidiaries domiciled in China, Canada, and Poland. We try to maintain a natural hedge by keeping a balance of our assets and liabilities denominated in the local currency of our subsidiaries domiciled in Canada and Poland, although there is no assurance that we will be able to continually maintain this natural hedge. Our foreign subsidiaries use the United States dollar as their functional currency. A substantial portion of the company’s imports purchased outside the United States are denominated in U.S. dollars. A 10% change in the above exchange rates at August 3, 2014, would not have had a significant impact on our results of operations or financial position.
We have conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures as of August 3, 2014, the end of the period covered by this report. This evaluation was conducted under the supervision and with the participation of management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. Based upon that evaluation, we have concluded that these disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the reports filed by us and submitted under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”) is recorded, processed, summarized, and reported as and when required. Further, we concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective to ensure that information required to be disclosed in reports filed by us under the Exchange Act is accumulated and communicated to management, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, in a manner to allow timely decisions regarding the required disclosures.
There has been no change in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended August 3, 2014, that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.
Part II – Other Information
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
There have not been any material changes to our legal proceedings during the three months ended August 3, 2014. Our legal proceedings are disclosed in the company’s annual report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 11, 2014 for the fiscal year ended April 27, 2014.
There have not been any material changes to our risk factors during the three months ended August 3, 2014. Our risk factors are disclosed in the company’s annual report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 11, 2014 for the fiscal year ended April 27, 2014.
Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
| Period | | | (a) Total Number of Shares Purchased | | | | (b) Average Price Paid per Share | | | | (c) Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs | | | | (d) Approximate Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (1) | |
| April 28, 2014 to June 1, 2014 | | | 22,101 | | | $ | 17.23 | | | | 22,101 | | | $ | 4,619,149 | |
| June 2, 2014 to June 29, 2014 | | | - | | | | - | | | | - | | | $ | 4,619,149 | |
| June 30, 2014 to August 3, 2014 | | | 10,168 | | | $ | 17.23 | | | | 10,168 | | | $ | 4,443,992 | |
| Total | | | 32,269 | | | $ | 17.23 | | | | 32,269 | | | $ | 4,443,992 | |
| (1) | On February 25, 2014, we announced that our board of directors approved an authorization for us to acquire up to $5.0 million of our common stock. |
The following exhibits are submitted as part of this report.
| | 3(i) | Articles of Incorporation of the company, as amended, were filed as Exhibit 3(i) to the company’s Form 10-Q for the quarter ended July 28, 2002, filed September 11, 2002 (Commission File No. 001-12597), and are incorporated herein by reference. |
| | 3 (ii) | Restated and Amended Bylaws of the company, as amended November 12, 2007, were filed as Exhibit 3.1 to the company’s Form 8-K dated November 12, 2007, and incorporated herein by reference. |
| | 10.1 | Written Description of Non-Employee Director Compensation |
| | 31.1 | Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
| | 31.2 | Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
| | 32.1 | Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
| | 32.2 | Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
| | 101.INS | XBRL Instance Document |
| | 101.SCH | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document |
| | 101.CAL | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document |
| | 101.LAB | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document |
| | 101.PRE | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document |
| | 101.DEF | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
| | CULP, INC. | |
| | (Registrant) | |
| | | |
| | | |
| Date: September 12, 2014 | By: | /s/ Kenneth R. Bowling | |
| | | Kenneth R. Bowling | |
| | | Vice President and Chief Financial Officer | |
| | | (Authorized to sign on behalf of the registrant | |
| | | and also signing as principal financial officer | |
| | By: | /s/ Thomas B. Gallagher, Jr. | |
| | | Thomas B. Gallagher, Jr. | |
| | | Corporate Controller | |
| | | (Authorized to sign on behalf of the registrant | |
| | | and also signing as principal accounting officer) | |
| | EXHIBIT INDEX |
| | | |
| | | |
| | Exhibit Number | Exhibit |
| | | |
| | | |
| | 10.1 | Written Description of Non-Employee Director Compensation |
| | | |
| | 31.1 | Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
| | | |
| | 31.2 | Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
| | | |
| | 32.1 | Certification of Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
| | | |
| | 32.2 | Certification of Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 906 of Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. |
| | | |
| | 101.INS | XBRL Instance Document |
| | | |
| | 101.SCH | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document |
| | | |
| | 101.CAL | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document |
| | | |
| | 101.LAB | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document |
| | | |
| | 101.PRE | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document |
| | | |
| | 101.DEF | XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document |
