United States
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
x QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended February 25, 2007
OR
¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from __________ to __________
Commission File Number 1-9102
AMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware | 77-0100596 |
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) | (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.) |
245 South Los Robles Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91101-3638
(Address of principal executive offices)
(626) 683-4000
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes x No ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Large accelerated filer ¨ | Accelerated filer x | Non-accelerated filer ¨ |
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act). Yes ¨ No x
The number of outstanding shares of Common Stock, $2.50 par value, was 9,109,678 on February 25, 2007. No other class of Common Stock exists.
AMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
FORM 10-Q
For the Quarter Ended February 25, 2007
Table of Contents
2
AMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1 - FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (UNAUDITED)
Three Months Ended | |||||||
February 25, | March 5, | ||||||
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data) | 2007 | 2006 | |||||
Sales | $ | 120,355 | $ | 125,972 | |||
Cost of sales | (95,035 | ) | (97,390 | ) | |||
Gross profit | 25,320 | 28,582 | |||||
Selling, general and administrative expenses | (21,500 | ) | (22,964 | ) | |||
Other income, net | 1,018 | 12 | |||||
Income from continuing operations before interest, income taxes and equity in earnings of joint venture | 4,838 | 5,630 | |||||
Interest income/(expense), net | 366 | (950 | ) | ||||
Income from continuing operations before income taxes and equity in earnings of joint venture | 5,204 | 4,680 | |||||
Provision for income taxes | (1,920 | ) | (1,685 | ) | |||
Income from continuing operations before equity in earnings of joint venture | 3,284 | 2,995 | |||||
Equity in earnings of joint venture, net of taxes | 5,028 | 780 | |||||
Income from continuing operations | 8,312 | 3,775 | |||||
Income/(loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes | 156 | (164 | ) | ||||
Net income | $ | 8,468 | $ | 3,611 | |||
Basic earnings per share: | |||||||
Income from continuing operations | $ | .92 | $ | .44 | |||
Income/(loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes | .02 | (.02 | ) | ||||
Net income | $ | .94 | $ | .42 | |||
Diluted earnings per share: | |||||||
Income from continuing operations | $ | .92 | $ | .43 | |||
Income/(loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes | .02 | (.02 | ) | ||||
Net income | $ | .94 | $ | .41 | |||
Weighted-average shares (basic) | 8,994,075 | 8,614,269 | |||||
Weighted-average shares (diluted) | 9,050,525 | 8,786,041 | |||||
Cash dividends per share | $ | .20 | $ | .20 |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - ASSETS (UNAUDITED)
February 25, | November 30, | ||||||
(Dollars in thousands) | 2007 | 2006 | |||||
ASSETS | |||||||
Current assets | |||||||
Cash and cash equivalents | $ | 127,720 | $ | 139,479 | |||
Receivables, less allowances of $5,139 in 2007 and $4,912 in 2006 | 150,627 | 160,173 | |||||
Inventories | 104,323 | 77,134 | |||||
Deferred income taxes | 23,861 | 23,861 | |||||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 9,485 | 15,921 | |||||
Total current assets | 416,016 | 416,568 | |||||
Investments in joint ventures | |||||||
Equity method | 20,169 | 14,501 | |||||
Cost method | 3,784 | 3,784 | |||||
Property, plant and equipment | |||||||
Land | 33,122 | 33,327 | |||||
Buildings | 58,515 | 57,434 | |||||
Machinery and equipment | 264,503 | 261,538 | |||||
Construction in progress | 26,910 | 20,657 | |||||
Total property, plant and equipment at cost | 383,050 | 372,956 | |||||
Accumulated depreciation | (242,258 | ) | (238,486 | ) | |||
Total property, plant and equipment, net | 140,792 | 134,470 | |||||
Goodwill and intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $3,023 in 2007 and $3,017 in 2006 | 2,137 | 2,143 | |||||
Other assets | 63,315 | 63,198 | |||||
Total assets | $ | 646,213 | $ | 634,664 |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY (UNAUDITED)
February 25, | November 30, | ||||||
(Dollars in thousands, except per share data) | 2007 | 2006 | |||||
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY | |||||||
Current liabilities | |||||||
Current portion of long-term debt | $ | 10,000 | $ | 10,000 | |||
Trade payables | 53,467 | 45,650 | |||||
Accrued liabilities | 74,106 | 68,970 | |||||
Income taxes payable | 3,957 | 11,481 | |||||
Total current liabilities | 141,530 | 136,101 | |||||
Long-term debt, less current portion | 71,263 | 72,525 | |||||
Other long-term liabilities | 60,423 | 62,813 | |||||
Total liabilities | 273,216 | 271,439 | |||||
Commitments and contingencies | |||||||
Stockholders' equity | |||||||
Common stock, par value $2.50 per share, authorized 24,000,000 shares, outstanding 9,109,678 shares in 2007 and 9,075,094 shares in 2006, net of treasury shares | 29,542 | 29,431 | |||||
Additional paid-in capital | 42,233 | 39,500 | |||||
Retained earnings | 378,546 | 371,894 | |||||
Accumulated other comprehensive loss | (25,814 | ) | (27,232 | ) | |||
Treasury stock (2,707,114 shares in 2007 and 2,697,148 shares in 2006) | (51,510 | ) | (50,368 | ) | |||
Total stockholders' equity | 372,997 | 363,225 | |||||
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity | $ | 646,213 | $ | 634,664 |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (UNAUDITED)
Three Months Ended | |||||||
February 25, | March 5, | ||||||
(Dollars in thousands) | 2007 | 2006 | |||||
OPERATING ACTIVITIES | |||||||
Net income | $ | 8,468 | $ | 3,611 | |||
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash (used in)/provided by operating activities: | |||||||
Depreciation | 3,739 | 4,646 | |||||
Amortization | 6 | 51 | |||||
Net earnings and distributions from joint ventures | (5,668 | ) | (596 | ) | |||
Gain from sale of property, plant and equipment | (19 | ) | (46 | ) | |||
Stock compensation expense | 484 | 1,366 | |||||
Other | 2 | (99 | ) | ||||
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | |||||||
Receivables, net | 9,816 | 3,278 | |||||
Inventories | (26,515 | ) | (5,939 | ) | |||
Prepaid expenses and other current assets | 6,492 | (759 | ) | ||||
Other assets | (105 | ) | 741 | ||||
Trade payables | 7,730 | (1,110 | ) | ||||
Accrued liabilities and income taxes payable | (2,538 | ) | (3,788 | ) | |||
Other long-term liabilities | (2,422 | ) | 58 | ||||
Net cash (used in)/provided by operating activities | (530 | ) | 1,414 | ||||
INVESTING ACTIVITIES | |||||||
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment | 200 | 154 | |||||
Additions to property, plant and equipment | (9,670 | ) | (4,345 | ) | |||
Net cash used in investing activities | (9,470 | ) | (4,191 | ) | |||
FINANCING ACTIVITIES | |||||||
Issuance of debt | - | 3,888 | |||||
Repayment of debt | (1,417 | ) | (22 | ) | |||
Dividends on common stock | (1,816 | ) | (1,749 | ) | |||
Issuance of common stock | 405 | 213 | |||||
Excess tax benefits related to stock-based compensation | 1,955 | - | |||||
Purchase of treasury stock | (1,142 | ) | (710 | ) | |||
Net cash (used in)/provided by financing activities | (2,015 | ) | 1,620 | ||||
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents | 256 | 170 | |||||
Net change in cash and cash equivalents | (11,759 | ) | (987 | ) | |||
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | 139,479 | 44,671 | |||||
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period | $ | 127,720 | $ | 43,684 |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
NOTE 1 - BASIS OF PRESENTATION
Consolidated financial statements for the interim periods included herein are unaudited; however, they contain all adjustments, including normal recurring accruals, which in the opinion of management, are necessary to present fairly the consolidated financial position of Ameron International Corporation and all subsidiaries (the "Company" or "Ameron" or the "Registrant") as of February 25, 2007, and consolidated results of operations and cash flows for the three months ended February 25, 2007. Accounting measurements at interim dates inherently involve greater reliance on estimates than at year-end. Results of operations for the periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year.
For accounting consistency, the quarter typically ends on the Sunday closest to the end of the relevant calendar month. The Company’s fiscal year ends on November 30, regardless of the day of the week. Each quarter consists of approximately 13 weeks, but the number of days per quarter can change from period to period. The quarter ended February 25, 2007 consisted of 87 days, compared to 95 days for the quarter ended March 5, 2006.
The consolidated financial statements do not include certain footnote disclosures and financial information normally included in consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America and, therefore, should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and notes included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended November 30, 2006 ("2006 Annual Report").
NOTE 2 - NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS
In June 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) 06-03, "How Taxes Collected from Customers and Remitted to Governmental Authorities Should Be Presented in the Income Statement (That Is, Gross Versus Net Presentation)." EITF 06-03 requires that any tax assessed by a governmental authority that is imposed concurrent with or subsequent to a revenue-producing transaction between a seller and a customer should be presented on a gross (included in revenues and costs) or a net (excluded from revenues) basis. In addition, for any such taxes that are reported on a gross basis, a company should disclose the amounts of those taxes in interim and annual financial statements for each period for which an income statement is presented if those amounts are significant. EITF 06-03 was first effective for the interim period ended February 25, 2007. The Company presents such taxes on a net basis in its income statements. The adoption of EITF 06-03 did not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In July 2006, the FASB issued Interpretation (“FIN”) No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes - an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109.” FIN 48 clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in an entity’s financial statements in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 109 and prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for financial statement disclosure of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. FIN 48 requires the impact of a tax position to be recognized in the financial statements if that position is more likely than not of being sustained by the taxing authority. FIN 48 is first effective for the year ending November 30, 2008. The Company is evaluating whether the adoption of FIN 48 will have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements.
In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements,” which formally defines fair value, creates a standardized framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), and expands fair value measurement disclosures. SFAS No. 157 will be effective for the year ending November 30, 2008. The adoption of SFAS No. 157 is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 158, "Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans," amending FASB Statement No. 87, “Employers’ Accounting for Pensions,” FASB Statement No. 88, “Employers’ Accounting for Settlements and Curtailments of Defined Benefit Pension Plans and for Termination Benefits,” FASB Statement No. 106, “Employers’ Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions,” and FASB Statement No. 132, “Employers’ Disclosures about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits.” SFAS No. 158 requires companies to recognize the overfunded or underfunded status of a defined benefit postretirement plan (other than a multiemployer plan) as an asset or liability in its financial statements and to recognize changes in that status in the year in which the changes occur. SFAS No. 158 also requires a company to measure the funded status of a plan as of the date of its year-end financial statements. SFAS No. 158 will be first effective for the year ending November 30, 2007. If SFAS No. 158 had been applied at November 30, 2006 using the November 30, 2006 actuarial valuation, accumulated other comprehensive loss would have increased by approximately $54,600,000 ($36,900,000 after tax) representing the difference between the funded status of the Company’s pension and other post-retirement benefit plans based on the projected and accumulated benefit obligations, respectively, and the amounts recorded on the Company’s balance sheet at November 30, 2006. The ultimate impact is contingent on plan asset returns and the assumptions that will be used to measure the funded status of each of Ameron’s pension and postretirement benefit plans as of November 30, 2007.
NOTE 3 - DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
On August 1, 2006, the Company completed the sale of its Performance Coatings & Finishes business (the "Coatings Business") to PPG Industries, Inc. ("PPG"). PPG and the Company are disputing a post-closing adjustment of $3,423,000. The Company believes it is entitled to the disputed amount under the terms of the Purchase Agreement (the “Agreement”). The Company and PPG are in active negotiations to resolve the dispute. If the parties are unable to resolve the dispute the Agreement provides a process for resolution. Certain real properties that were used in the Coatings Business were excluded from the sale. The Company intends to sell the retained properties in the next 12 to 18 months and expects to generate additional proceeds of approximately $15,000,000 based on current estimates of market values. The retained properties are included in other assets of the consolidated balance sheets.
The results of discontinued operations were as follows:
Three Months Ended | |||||||
February 25, | March 5, | ||||||
(In thousands) | 2007 | 2006 | |||||
Revenue from discontinued operations | $ | - | $ | 49,320 | |||
Income/(loss) from discontinued operations, before income taxes | $ | - | $ | (187 | ) | ||
Income taxes on income from discontinued operations | 156 | 23 | |||||
Income/(loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes | $ | 156 | $ | (164 | ) |
Income from discontinued operations, net of taxes, totaled $156,000 or $.02 per diluted share for the quarter ended February 25, 2007, compared to a loss of $164,000, or $.02 per diluted share, for the same period in 2006. During the first quarter of 2007, the Company recognized a net research and development tax credit of $156,000 related to discontinued operations. This tax credit arose from the retroactive application of tax legislation enacted in December 2006.
Prior period income statement amounts have been reclassified to present the operating results of the Coatings Business as a discontinued operation. Prior period balance sheets and cash flow statements have not been adjusted.
NOTE 4 - RECEIVABLES
The Company’s receivables consisted of the following:
February 25, | November 30, | ||||||
(In thousands) | 2007 | 2006 | |||||
Trade | $ | 130,305 | $ | 124,308 | |||
Other | 16,686 | 31,299 | |||||
Joint ventures | 8,775 | 9,478 | |||||
Allowances | (5,139 | ) | (4,912 | ) | |||
$ | 150,627 | $ | 160,173 |
Trade receivables included unbilled receivables related to percentage-of-completion revenue recognition of $41,234,000 and $32,278,000 at February 25, 2007 and November 30, 2006, respectively.
NOTE 5 - INVENTORIES
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Inventories consisted of the following:
February 25, | November 30, | ||||||
(In thousands) | 2007 | 2006 | |||||
Finished products | $ | 42,691 | $ | 30,802 | |||
Materials and supplies | 25,752 | 22,224 | |||||
Products in process | 35,880 | 24,108 | |||||
$ | 104,323 | $ | 77,134 |
NOTE 6 - SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION
Supplemental cash flow information included the following:
Three Months Ended | |||||||
February 25, | March 5, | ||||||
(In thousands) | 2007 | 2006 | |||||
Interest paid | $ | 203 | $ | 647 | |||
Income taxes paid | 7,762 | 277 | |||||
NOTE 7 - JOINT VENTURES
Operating results of TAMCO, an investment which is accounted for under the equity method, were as follows:
Three Months Ended | |||||||
February 25, | March 5, | ||||||
(In thousands) | 2007 | 2006 | |||||
Net sales | $ | 76,422 | $ | 51,069 | |||
Gross profit | 21,790 | 5,102 | |||||
Net income | 11,336 | 1,741 |
Investments in Ameron Saudi Arabia, Ltd. ("ASAL") and Bondstrand, Ltd. ("BL") are accounted for under the cost method due to management's current assessment of the Company's influence over these joint ventures.
Earnings and dividends from the Company's joint ventures were as follows:
Three Months Ended | |||||||
February 25, | March 5, | ||||||
(In thousands) | 2007 | 2006 | |||||
Earnings from joint ventures | |||||||
Equity in earnings of TAMCO before income taxes | $ | 5,668 | $ | 871 | |||
Less provision for income taxes | (640 | ) | (91 | ) | |||
Equity in earnings of TAMCO, net of taxes | $ | 5,028 | $ | 780 | |||
Dividends received from joint ventures | |||||||
TAMCO | $ | - | $ | 275 | |||
ASAL | - | - | |||||
BL | - | - |
Earnings from ASAL and BL, if any, are included in other income, net.
NOTE 8 - NET INCOME PER SHARE
Basic net income per share is computed on the basis of the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the periods presented. Diluted net income per share is computed on the basis of the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding plus the effect of outstanding stock options and restricted stock, using the treasury stock method. All outstanding common stock equivalents, consisting of restricted shares of 28,550 and 45,000, and options to purchase 98,500 and 456,783 common shares, were dilutive for the three months ended February 25, 2007 and March 5, 2006, respectively. Following is a reconciliation of the weighted-average number of shares used in the computation of basic and diluted net income per share:
Three Months Ended | |||||||
February 25, | March 5, | ||||||
(In thousands, except per share data) | 2007 | 2006 | |||||
Numerator: | |||||||
Income from continuing operations | $ | 8,312 | $ | 3,775 | |||
Income/(loss) from discontinuing operations, net of taxes | 156 | (164 | ) | ||||
Net income | $ | 8,468 | $ | 3,611 | |||
Denominator for basic income per share: | |||||||
Weighted-average shares outstanding, basic | 8,994,075 | 8,614,269 | |||||
Denominator for diluted income per share: | |||||||
Weighted-average shares outstanding, basic | 8,994,075 | 8,614,269 | |||||
Dilutive effect of stock options and restricted stock | 56,450 | 171,772 | |||||
Weighted-average shares outstanding, diluted | 9,050,525 | 8,786,041 | |||||
Basic net income per share: | |||||||
Income from continuing operations | $ | .92 | $ | .44 | |||
Income/(loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes | .02 | (.02 | ) | ||||
Net income | $ | .94 | $ | .42 | |||
Diluted net income per share: | |||||||
Income from continuing operations | $ | .92 | $ | .43 | |||
Income/(loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes | .02 | (.02 | ) | ||||
Net income | $ | .94 | $ | .41 |
NOTE 9 - COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Comprehensive income was as follows:
Three Months Ended | |||||||
February 25, | March 5, | ||||||
(In thousands) | 2007 | 2006 | |||||
Net income | $ | 8,468 | $ | 3,611 | |||
Foreign currency translation adjustment | 1,418 | 557 | |||||
Comprehensive income | $ | 9,886 | $ | 4,168 |
NOTE 10 - DEBT
The Company's long-term debt consisted of the following:
February 25, | November 30, | ||||||
(In thousands) | 2007 | 2006 | |||||
Fixed-rate notes: | |||||||
5.36%, payable in annual principal installments of $10,000 | $ | 30,000 | $ | 30,000 | |||
4.25%, payable in Singapore dollars, in annual principal installments of $6,664, starting in 2008 | 33,320 | 33,173 | |||||
Variable-rate industrial development bonds: | |||||||
payable in 2016 (3.86% at February 25, 2007) | 7,200 | 7,200 | |||||
payable in 2021 (3.86% at February 25, 2007) | 8,500 | 8,500 | |||||
Variable-rate bank revolving credit facility (4.23% at February 25, 2007) | 2,243 | 3,652 | |||||
Total long-term debt | 81,263 | 82,525 | |||||
Less current portion | (10,000 | ) | (10,000 | ) | |||
Long-term debt, less current portion | $ | 71,263 | $ | 72,525 |
The Company maintains a $100,000,000 revolving credit facility with six banks (the "Revolver"). Under the Revolver, the Company may, at its option, borrow at floating interest rates (LIBOR plus a spread ranging from .75% to 1.625% determined by the Company's financial condition and performance), at any time until September 2010, when all borrowings under the Revolver must be repaid. The lending agreements contain various restrictive covenants, including the requirement to maintain specified amounts of net worth and restrictions on cash dividends, borrowings, liens, investments, guarantees, and financial covenants. The Company was in compliance with all covenants as of February 25, 2007. The Revolver, the 4.25% term notes and the 5.36% term notes are collateralized by substantially all of the Company's assets. The industrial revenue bonds are supported by standby letters of credit that are issued under the Revolver. The interest rate on the industrial development bonds is based on a weekly index of tax exempt issues plus a spread of .20%. Certain note agreements contain provisions regarding the Company's ability to grant security interests or liens in association with other debt instruments. If the Company grants such a security interest or lien, then such notes will be collateralized equally and ratably as long as such other debt shall be collateralized.
The Company intends for short-term borrowings under certain bank facilities utilized by the Company and its foreign subsidiaries to be refinanced on a long-term basis via the Revolver. In addition, the amount available under the Revolver exceeds such short-term borrowings at February 25, 2007. Accordingly, amounts due under these bank facilities have been classified as long-term debt and are considered payable when the Revolver is due.
NOTE 11 - SEGMENT INFORMATION
The Company provides certain information about operating segments in accordance with SFAS No. 131, “Disclosure about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information.” In accordance with SFAS No. 131, the Company has determined that it has four operating and three reportable segments: Fiberglass-Composite Pipe, Water Transmission and Infrastructure Products. Infrastructure Products consists of two operating segments, the Pole Products and Hawaii Divisions, which are aggregated. In the prior periods, the Company included a fourth reportable segment, Performance Coatings & Finishes, which was sold effective August 1, 2006. The results from this segment have been reported as discontinued operations for all reporting periods. Each of the segments has a dedicated management team and is managed separately, primarily because of differences in products. The Company's Chief Operating Decision Maker is the Chief Executive Officer who primarily reviews sales and income before interest, income taxes and equity in earnings of joint venture for each operating segment in making decisions about allocating resources and assessing performance. The Company allocates certain selling, general and administrative expenses to operating segments utilizing assumptions believed to be appropriate in the circumstances. Costs of shared services (e.g., costs of Company-wide insurance programs or benefit plans) are allocated to the operating segments based on revenue, wages or net assets employed. Other items not related to current operations or of an unusual nature, such as adjustments to reflect inventory balances of certain steel inventories under the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method, certain unusual legal costs and expenses, interest expense and income taxes, are not allocated to the reportable segments.
Following is information related to each reportable segment included in, and in a manner consistent with, internal management reports:
Three Months Ended | |||||||
February 25, | March 5, | ||||||
(In thousands) | 2007 | 2006 | |||||
Sales | |||||||
Fiberglass-Composite Pipe | $ | 46,509 | $ | 36,592 | |||
Water Transmission | 29,593 | 43,181 | |||||
Infrastructure Products | 45,287 | 46,390 | |||||
Eliminations | (1,034 | ) | (191 | ) | |||
Total sales | $ | 120,355 | $ | 125,972 | |||
Income from continuing operations before interest, income taxes and equity in earnings of Joint Venture | |||||||
Fiberglass-Composite Pipe | $ | 8,999 | $ | 5,799 | |||
Water Transmission | (4,131 | ) | 1,898 | ||||
Infrastructure Products | 6,727 | 6,863 | |||||
Corporate & unallocated | (6,757 | ) | (8,930 | ) | |||
Total Income from continuing operations before interest, income taxes and equity in earnings of Joint Venture | $ | 4,838 | $ | 5,630 |
February 25, | November 30, | ||||||
2007 | 2006 | ||||||
Assets | |||||||
Fiberglass-Composite Pipe | $ | 218,898 | $ | 206,326 | |||
Water Transmission | 180,512 | 167,463 | |||||
Infrastructure Products | 104,884 | 97,249 | |||||
Corporate & unallocated | 270,199 | 271,023 | |||||
Eliminations | (128,280 | ) | (107,397 | ) | |||
Total Assets | $ | 646,213 | $ | 634,664 |
NOTE 12 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
The Company is one of numerous defendants in various asbestos-related personal injury lawsuits. These cases generally seek unspecified damages for asbestos-related diseases based on alleged exposure to products previously manufactured by the Company and others, and at this time the Company is generally not aware of the extent of injuries allegedly suffered by the individuals or the facts supporting the claim that injuries were caused by the Company's products. Based upon the information available to it at this time, the Company is not in a position to evaluate its potential exposure, if any, as a result of such claims. Hence, no amounts have been accrued for loss contingencies related to these lawsuits in accordance with SFAS No. 5, "Accounting for Contingencies." The Company continues to vigorously defend all such lawsuits. As of February 25, 2007, the Company was a defendant in asbestos-related cases involving 145 claimants, compared to 145 claimants as of November 30, 2006. The Company is not in a position to estimate the number of additional claims that may be filed against it in the future. For the quarter ended February 25, 2007, there were new claims involving four claimants, dismissals and/or settlements involving four claimants and no judgments. No net costs and expenses were incurred by the Company for the quarter ended February 25, 2007 in connection with asbestos-related claims.
In May 2003, Dominion Exploration and Production, Inc. and Pioneer Natural Resources USA, Inc., (collectively "Dominion") brought an action against the Company in Civil District Court for the Parish of Orleans, Louisiana as owners of an offshore production facility known as a SPAR constructed for Dominion. Dominion seeks damages allegedly sustained by it resulting from delays in delivery of the SPAR caused by the removal and replacement of certain coatings containing lead and/or lead chromate for which the manufacturer of the SPAR alleged the Company was responsible. Dominion contends that the Company made certain misrepresentations and warranties to Dominion concerning the lead-free nature of those coatings. Dominion's petition as filed alleged a claim for damages in an unspecified amount; however, Dominion's economic expert has since estimated Dominion's damages at approximately $128,000,000, a figure which the Company contests. This matter is in discovery and no trial date has yet been established. The Company believes that it has meritorious defenses to this action. Based upon the information available to it at this time, the Company is not in a position to evaluate the ultimate outcome of this matter.
In April 2004, Sable Offshore Energy Inc. ("Sable"), as agent for certain owners of the Sable Offshore Energy Project, brought an action against various coatings suppliers and application contractors, including the Company and two of its subsidiaries, Ameron (UK) Limited and Ameron B.V., (collectively "Ameron Subsidiaries"), in the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia, Canada. Sable seeks damages allegedly sustained by it resulting from performance problems with several coating systems used on the Sable Offshore Energy Project, including coatings products furnished by the Company and the Ameron Subsidiaries. Sable's originating notice and statement of claim alleged a claim for damages in an unspecified amount; however, Sable has since alleged that its claim for damages against all defendants is approximately 428,000,000 Canadian dollars, a figure which the Company and the Ameron Subsidiaries contest. This matter is in discovery and no trial date has yet been established. The Company believes that it has meritorious defenses to this action. Based upon the information available to it at this time, the Company is not in a position to evaluate the ultimate outcome of this matter.
In addition, certain other claims, suits and complaints that arise in the ordinary course of business, have been filed or are pending against the Company. Management believes that these matters are either adequately reserved, covered by insurance, or would not have a material effect on the Company's financial position, cash flows, or its results of operations if disposed of unfavorably.
The Company is subject to federal, state and local laws and regulations concerning the environment and is currently participating in administrative proceedings at several sites under these laws. While the Company finds it difficult to estimate with any certainty the total cost of remediation at the several sites, on the basis of currently available information and reserves provided, the Company believes that the outcome of such environmental regulatory proceedings will not have a material effect on the Company's financial position, cash flows, or its results of operations.
NOTE 13 - PRODUCT WARRANTIES AND GUARANTEES
The Company's product warranty accrual reflects management's estimate of probable liability associated with product warranties. The Company generally provides a standard product warranty not exceeding one year from date of purchase. Management establishes product warranty accruals based on historical experience and other currently-available information. Changes in the product warranty accrual were as follows:
Three Months Ended | |||||||
February 25, | March 5, | ||||||
(In thousands) | 2007 | 2006 | |||||
Balance, beginning of period | $ | 3,146 | $ | 4,026 | |||
Payments | (544 | ) | (530 | ) | |||
Warranties issued during the period | 953 | 418 | |||||
Balance, end of period | $ | 3,555 | $ | 3,914 |
NOTE 14 - GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS
SFAS No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets," requires that goodwill and intangible assets with indefinite useful lives not be amortized but instead be tested for impairment at least annually. SFAS No. 142 also requires that intangible assets with definite useful lives be amortized over their respective estimated useful lives to their estimated residual values.
Changes in the Company’s carrying amount of goodwill by business segment were as follows:
Foreign | |||||||||||||
Currency | |||||||||||||
November 30, | Acquisition/ | Translation | February 25, | ||||||||||
(In thousands) | 2006 | (Disposition) | Adjustments | 2007 | |||||||||
Fiberglass-Composite Pipe | $ | 1,440 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 1,440 | |||||
Water Transmission | 390 | - | - | 390 | |||||||||
Infrastructure Products | 201 | - | - | 201 | |||||||||
$ | 2,031 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | 2,031 |
The Company's intangible assets, other than goodwill, and related accumulated amortization consisted of the following:
February 25, 2007 | November 30, 2006 | ||||||||||||
Gross Intangible | Accumulated | Gross Intangible | Accumulated | ||||||||||
(In thousands) | Assets | Amortization | Assets | Amortization | |||||||||
Trademarks | $ | 100 | $ | (100 | ) | $ | 100 | $ | (100 | ) | |||
Non-compete agreements | 252 | (146 | ) | 252 | (140 | ) | |||||||
Patents | 212 | (212 | ) | 212 | (212 | ) | |||||||
Leasehold interests | 1,930 | (1,930 | ) | 1,930 | (1,930 | ) | |||||||
$ | 2,494 | $ | (2,388 | ) | $ | 2,494 | $ | (2,382 | ) |
All of the Company's intangible assets, other than goodwill, are subject to amortization. Amortization expense for the three months ended February 25, 2007 and March 5, 2006 were $6,000 and $51,000, respectively. The $51,000 amortization expense for the three months ended March 5, 2006 was related to the discontinued operations. At February 25, 2007, estimated future amortization expense were as follows: $18,000 for the remaining nine months of 2007, $24,000 for 2008, $23,000 for 2009, $23,000 for 2010, $16,000 for 2011 and $2,000 for 2012.
NOTE 15 - INCENTIVE STOCK COMPENSATION PLANS
As of February 25, 2007, the Company had outstanding grants under the following share-based compensation plans:
· 1994 Non-Employee Director Stock Option Plan ("1994 Plan") - The 1994 Plan was terminated in 2001, except as to the outstanding options. A total of 240,000 new shares of common stock were made available for awards to non-employee directors. Non-employee directors were granted options to purchase the Company's common stock at prices not less than 100% of market value on the dates of grant. Such options vested in equal annual installments over four years and terminate ten years from the dates of grant.
· 2001 Stock Incentive Plan ("2001 Plan") - The 2001 Plan was terminated in 2004, except as to the outstanding stock options and restricted stock grants. A total of 380,000 new shares of common stock were made available for awards to key employees and non-employee directors. The 2001 Plan served as the successor to the 1994 Plan and superseded that plan. Non-employee directors were granted options under the 2001 Plan to purchase the Company's common stock at prices not less than 100% of market value on the dates of grant. Such options vested in equal annual installments over four years. Such options terminate ten years from the dates of grant. Key employees were granted restricted stock under the 2001 Plan. Such restricted stock grants vested in equal annual installments over four years.
· 2004 Stock Incentive Plan ("2004 Plan") - The 2004 Plan serves as the successor to the 2001 Plan and supersedes that plan. A total of 525,000 new shares of common stock were made available for awards to key employees and non-employee directors and may include, but are not limited to, stock options and restricted stock grants. Non-employee directors were granted options under the 2004 Plan to purchase the Company's common stock at prices not less than 100% of market value on the date of grant. Such options vest in equal annual installments over four years. Such options terminate ten years from the dates of grant. Key employees were granted restricted stock under the 2004 Plan. Such restricted stock grants vest in equal annual installments over three years. For the three months ended February 25, 2007, the Company granted 28,550 restricted shares to key employees with fair value on the grant date of $2,305,000.
In addition to the above, on January 24, 2001, non-employee directors were granted options to purchase the Company's common stock at prices not less than 100% of market value on the dates of grant. Such options vested in equal annual installments over four years and terminate ten years from the dates of grant. At February 25, 2007, there were 18,000 shares subject to such stock options.
The Company's income before income taxes and equity in earnings of joint venture for the three months ended February 25, 2007 and March 5, 2006 included compensation expense of $484,000 and $1,366,000, respectively, related to stock-based compensation arrangements. There were no capitalized share-based compensation costs, for the three months ended February 25, 2007 and March 5, 2006.
Tax benefits and excess tax benefits resulting from the exercise of stock options are reflected as operating cash flows in the Company’s statements of cash flows. For the three months ended February 25, 2007, excess tax benefits totaled $1,955,000.
The following table summarizes the stock option activity for the three months ended February 25, 2007:
Weighted- | |||||||||||||
Weighted- | Average | ||||||||||||
Average | Remaining | Aggregate | |||||||||||
Number of | Exercise Price | Contractual | Intrinsic Value | ||||||||||
Options | Options | per Share | Term (Years) | (in thousands) | |||||||||
Outstanding at November 30, 2006 | 120,500 | $ | 27.25 | ||||||||||
Exercised | (22,000 | ) | 23.97 | ||||||||||
Outstanding at February 25, 2007 | 98,500 | 27.98 | 5.40 | $ | 5,037 | ||||||||
Options exercisable at February 25, 2007 | 76,000 | 26.61 | 4.73 | $ | 3,991 |
For the three months ended February 25, 2007 and March 5, 2006, no options were granted, forfeited or expired. The aggregate intrinsic value in the table above represents the total pretax intrinsic value, which is the difference between the Company's closing stock price on the last trading day of the first quarter of 2007 and the exercise price times the number of shares that would have been received by the option holders if they had exercised their options on February 25, 2007. This amount will change based on the fair market value of the Company's stock. The aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercised for the three months ended February 25, 2007 and March 5, 2006 was $1,175,000 and $352,000, respectively. As of February 25, 2007, there was $3,773,000 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to stock-based compensation arrangements. That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of three years.
For the three months ended February 25, 2007 and March 5, 2006, 28,550 and 45,000 shares of restricted stock, respectively, were granted. The weighted-average grant-date fair value of such restricted stock granted was $80.73 and $54.68, respectively. The fair value of restricted stock vested for the three months ended February 25, 2007 and March 5, 2006 was $2,308,000 and $2,112,000, respectively.
Net cash proceeds from stock option exercises for the three months ended February 25, 2007 and March 5, 2006 was $405,000 and $213,000, respectively. The Company's policy is to issue shares from its authorized shares upon the exercise of stock options.
NOTE 16 - EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS
For the three months ended February 25, 2007 and March 5, 2006, net pension and postretirement costs were comprised of the following:
U.S. Postretirement | |||||||||||||||||||
Pension Benefits | Benefits | ||||||||||||||||||
U.S. Plans | Non-U.S. Plans | ||||||||||||||||||
Three Months Ended February 25 and March 5, | |||||||||||||||||||
(In thousands) | 2007 | 2006 | 2007 | 2006 | 2007 | 2006 | |||||||||||||
Service cost | $ | 753 | $ | 814 | $ | 122 | $ | 275 | $ | 88 | $ | 78 | |||||||
Interest cost | 2,781 | 2,548 | 521 | 446 | 202 | 179 | |||||||||||||
Expected return on plan assets | (3,515 | ) | (3,053 | ) | (388 | ) | (332 | ) | (35 | ) | (27 | ) | |||||||
Amortization of unrecognized | |||||||||||||||||||
prior service cost | 27 | 24 | 65 | 122 | 19 | (14 | ) | ||||||||||||
Curtailment | - | 81 | - | 728 | - | - | |||||||||||||
Amortization of unrecognized | |||||||||||||||||||
net transition obligation | - | - | - | - | 46 | 46 | |||||||||||||
Amortization of accumulated loss | 924 | 1,109 | 36 | 79 | 15 | 41 | |||||||||||||
Net periodic cost | $ | 970 | $ | 1,523 | $ | 356 | $ | 1,318 | $ | 335 | $ | 303 |
A contribution of $21,000 was made to the non-U.S. pension plan during the quarter ended February 25, 2007. The Company expects to contribute approximately $3,000,000 to its U.S. pension plan and $600,000 to its non-U.S. pension plans in 2007. Additional contributions may be made in 2007 depending on how the funded status of plans change and as the Company gains greater clarity with respect to the requirements of the Pension Protection Act of 2006 (“PPA”) which was signed into law on August 17, 2006.
If SFAS No. 158 had been applied at November 30, 2006 using the November 30, 2006 actuarial valuation, accumulated other comprehensive loss would have increased by approximately $54,600,000 ($36,900,000 after tax) representing the difference between the funded status of the Company’s pension and other post-retirement benefit plans based on the projected and accumulated benefit obligations, respectively, and the amounts recorded on the Company’s balance sheet at November 30, 2006. The ultimate impact is contingent on plan asset returns and the assumptions that will be used to measure the funded status of each of Ameron’s pension and postretirement benefit plans as of November 30, 2007.
ITEM 2 - MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
INTRODUCTION
Ameron International Corporation ("Ameron" or the "Company") is a multinational manufacturer of highly-engineered products and materials for the chemical, industrial, energy, transportation and infrastructure markets. Ameron is a leading producer of water transmission lines; fiberglass-composite pipe for transporting oil, chemicals and corrosive fluids and specialized materials and products used in infrastructure projects. The Company operates businesses in North America, South America, Europe and Asia. The Company has three reportable segments. The Fiberglass-Composite Pipe Group manufactures and markets filament-wound and molded composite fiberglass pipe, tubing, fittings and well screens. The Water Transmission Group manufactures and supplies concrete and steel pressure pipe, concrete non-pressure pipe, protective linings for pipe, and fabricated steel products. The Infrastructure Products Group consists of two operating segments, which are aggregated: the Hawaii Division which manufactures and sells ready-mix concrete, sand and aggregates, concrete pipe and culverts and the Pole Products Division which manufactures and sells concrete and steel lighting and traffic poles. The markets served by the Fiberglass-Composite Pipe Group are worldwide in scope. The Water Transmission Group serves primarily the western U.S. The Infrastructure Products Group's quarry and ready-mix business operates exclusively in Hawaii, and poles are sold throughout the U.S. Ameron also participates in several joint-venture companies, directly in the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, and indirectly in Egypt.
During the third quarter of 2006, the Company sold its Performance Coatings & Finishes business ("Coatings Business"). The results from this segment have been reported as discontinued operations for all the reporting periods. Accordingly, the following discussions generally reflect summary results from continuing operations unless otherwise noted. However, the net income and net income per share discussions include the impact of discontinued operations.
Management's Discussion and Analysis should be read in conjunction with the same discussion included in the Company's 2006 Annual Report, under Part II, Item 7. Reference should also be made to the financial statements included in this Form 10-Q for comparative consolidated balance sheets, statements of income and cash flows.
CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND ESTIMATES
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Liquidity and Capital Resources and Results of Operations are based upon the Company's consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities during the reporting periods. Management bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
A summary of the Company's significant accounting policies is provided in Note (1) of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in the Company’s 2006 Annual Report. In addition, Management believes the following accounting policies affect the more significant estimates used in preparing the consolidated financial statements.
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Ameron International Corporation and all wholly-owned subsidiaries. All material intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. The functional currencies for the Company's foreign operations are the applicable local currencies. The translation from the applicable foreign currencies to U.S. dollars is performed for balance sheet accounts using current exchange rates in effect at the balance sheet date and for revenue and expense accounts using a weighted-average exchange rate during the period. The resulting translation adjustments are recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss). The Company advances funds to certain foreign subsidiaries that are not expected to be repaid in the foreseeable future. Translation adjustments arising from these advances are also included in accumulated other comprehensive income/(loss). The timing of repayments of intercompany advances could materially impact the Company's consolidated financial statements. Additionally, earnings of foreign subsidiaries are often permanently reinvested outside the U.S. Unforeseen repatriation of such earnings could result in significant unrecognized U.S. tax liability. Gains or losses resulting from foreign currency transactions are included in other income, net.
Revenue for the Fiberglass-Composite Pipe and Infrastructure Products segments is recognized when risk of ownership and title pass, primarily at the time goods are shipped, provided that an agreement exists between the customer and the Company, the price is fixed or determinable and collection is reasonably assured. Revenue is recognized for the Water Transmission Group primarily under the percentage-of-completion method, typically based on completed units of production, since products are manufactured under enforceable and binding construction contracts, typically are designed for specific applications, are not interchangeable between projects, and are not manufactured for stock. Revenue for the period is determined by multiplying total estimated contract revenue by the percentage-of-completion of the contract and then subtracting the amount of previously recognized revenue. Cost of earned revenue is computed by multiplying estimated contract completion cost by the percentage-of-completion of the contract and then subtracting the amount of previously recognized cost. In some cases, if products are manufactured for stock or are not related to specific construction contracts, revenue is recognized under the same criteria used by the other two segments. Revenue under the percentage-of-completion method is subject to a greater level of estimation, which affects the timing of revenue recognition, costs and profits. Estimates are reviewed on a consistent basis and are adjusted periodically to reflect current expectations. Costs attributable to unpriced change orders are treated as costs of contract performance in the period, and contract revenue is recognized if recovery is probable. Disputed or unapproved change orders are treated as claims. Recognition of amounts of additional contract revenue relating to claims occurs when amounts have been received or awarded with recognition based on the percentage-of-completion methodology.
The Company expenses environmental clean-up costs related to existing conditions resulting from past or current operations on a site-by-site basis. Liabilities and costs associated with these matters, as well as other pending litigation and asserted claims arising in the ordinary course of business, require estimates of future costs and judgments based on the knowledge and experience of management and its legal counsel. When the Company's exposures can be reasonably estimated and are probable, liabilities and expenses are recorded. The ultimate resolution of any such exposure to the Company may differ due to subsequent developments.
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market with cost determined principally on the first-in, first-out ("FIFO") method. Certain steel inventories used by the Water Transmission Group are valued using the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method. Significant changes in steel levels or costs could materially impact the Company's financial statements. Reserves are established for excess, obsolete and rework inventories based on estimates of salability and forecasted future demand. Management records an allowance for doubtful accounts receivable based on historical experience and expected trends. A significant reduction in demand or a significant worsening of customer credit quality could materially impact the Company’s consolidated financial statements.
Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures or affiliates ("joint ventures") over which the Company has significant influence are accounted for under the equity method of accounting, whereby the investment is carried at the cost of acquisition, plus the Company's equity in undistributed earnings or losses since acquisition. Investments in joint ventures over which the Company does not have the ability to exert significant influence over the investees' operating and financing activities are accounted for under the cost method of accounting. The Company's investment in TAMCO, a steel mini-mill in California, is accounted for under the equity method. Investments in Ameron Saudi Arabia, Ltd. and Bondstrand, Ltd. are accounted for under the cost method due to management's current assessment of the Company's influence over these joint ventures.
Property, plant and equipment is stated on the basis of cost and depreciated principally using a straight-line method based on the estimated useful lives of the related assets, generally three to 40 years. The Company reviews long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value of such assets may not be recoverable. If the estimated future, undiscounted cash flows from the use of an asset are less than its carrying value, a write-down is recorded to reduce the related asset to estimated fair value. Actual cash flows may differ significantly from estimated cash flows. Additionally, current estimates of future cash flows may differ from subsequent estimates of future cash flows. Changes in estimated or actual cash flows could
The Company is self-insured for a portion of the losses and liabilities primarily associated with workers' compensation claims and general, product and vehicle liability. Losses are accrued based upon the Company's estimates of the aggregate liability for claims incurred using historical experience and certain actuarial assumptions followed in the insurance industry. The estimate of self-insurance liability includes an estimate of incurred but not reported claims, based on data compiled from historical experience. Actual experience could differ significantly from these estimates and could materially impact the Company's consolidated financial statements. The Company purchases varying levels of insurance to cover losses in excess of the self-insured limits. Currently, the Company's primary self-insurance limits are $1.0 million per workers' compensation claim, $.1 million per general, property or product liability claim, and $.25 million per vehicle liability claim.
The Company follows the guidance of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 87, Employers' Accounting for Pensions, and SFAS No. 106, Employers’ Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions, when accounting for pension and other postretirement benefits. Under these accounting standards, assumptions are made regarding the valuation of benefit obligations and the performance of plan assets that are controlled and invested by third-party fiduciaries. Delayed recognition of differences between actual results and expected or estimated results is a guiding principle of these standards. Such delayed recognition provides a gradual recognition of benefit obligations and investment performance over the working lives of the employees who benefit under the plans, based on various assumptions. Assumed discount rates are used to calculate the present values of benefit payments which are projected to be made in the future, including projections of increases in employees' annual compensation and health care costs. Management also projects the future returns on invested assets based principally on prior performance. These projected returns reduce the net benefit costs the Company records in the current period. Actual results could vary significantly from projected results, and such deviations could materially impact the Company's consolidated financial statements. Management consults with its actuaries when determining these assumptions. Unforecasted program changes, including termination, freezing of benefits or acceleration of benefits, could result in an immediate recognition of unrecognized benefit obligations and such recognition could materially impact the Company's consolidated financial statements.
Management incentive compensation is accrued based on current estimates of the Company's ability to achieve short-term and long-term performance targets.
Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are computed for differences between the financial statement and income tax bases of assets and liabilities. Such deferred income tax asset and liability computations are based on enacted tax laws and rates applicable to periods in which the differences are expected to reverse. Valuation allowances are established, when necessary, to reduce deferred income tax assets to the amounts expected to be realized. Quarterly income taxes are estimated based on the mix of income by jurisdiction forecasted for the full fiscal year. The Company believes that it has adequately provided for tax-related matters. The Company is subject to examination by taxing authorities in various jurisdictions. Matters raised upon audit may involve substantial amounts, and an adverse finding could have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
The following discussion generally combines the impact of both continuing and discontinued operations unless otherwise noted.
As of February 25, 2007, the Company's working capital totaled $278.3 million, marginally lower than the working capital of $280.5 million as of November 30, 2006. Cash and cash equivalents totaled $127.7 million as of February 25, 2007, compared to $139.5 million as of November 30, 2006.
In accordance with SFAS No. 95, Statement of Cash Flows, the consolidated statements of cash flows include cash flows for both continuing and discontinued operations. For the three months ended February 25, 2007, net cash of $.5 million was used in operating activities of continuing and discontinued operations, compared to $1.4 million generated in the three months ended March 5, 2006. The lower operating cash flow in 2007 was due in part to increased inventories due to higher sand inventories in Hawaii and higher steel inventories associated with wind tower orders. In the three months ended February 25, 2007, the Company's cash from operating activities included net income of $8.5 million, less non-cash adjustments (depreciation, amortization, equity income from joint-ventures in excess of dividends and stock compensation expense) of $1.5 million, and less changes in operating assets and liabilities of $7.5 million. In the three months ended March 5, 2006, the Company's cash provided by operating activities included net income of $3.6 million, plus non-cash adjustments (depreciation, amortization, equity income from joint-ventures in excess of dividends and stock compensation expense) of $5.3 million, offset by corresponding changes in operating assets and liabilities of $7.5 million. Non-cash adjustments were lower in 2007 than in 2006 due primarily to higher equity earnings and the timing of dividend payments from TAMCO.
Net cash used in investing activities totaled $9.5 million during the three months ended February 25, 2007, compared to $4.2 million used in the three months ended March 5, 2006. Net cash used in investing activities during the first quarter of 2007 consisted of capital expenditures of $9.7 million, compared to $4.3 million in the same period of 2006. Capital expenditures were primarily for normal replacement and upgrades of machinery and equipment in both 2007 and 2006. Capital expenditures for 2007 also included the expansion of the Company’s steel fabrication plant in California to manufacture large-diameter wind towers. During the year ending November 30, 2007, the Company anticipates spending between $30 and $50 million on capital expenditures. Capital expenditures are expected to be funded by existing cash balances, cash generated from operations or additional borrowings.
Net cash used in financing activities totaled $2.0 million during the three months ended February 25, 2007, compared to $1.6 million provided in the three months ended March 5, 2006. Net cash used in 2007 consisted of net payment of debt of $1.4 million, payment of common stock dividends of $1.8 million and treasury stock purchases of $1.1 million related to the vesting of restricted shares, offset by net issuance of common stock related to exercised stock options of $.4 million and tax benefits of $2.0 million related to exercised stock options. Net cash provided by financing activities in 2006 included net borrowings of $3.9 million and a similar issuance of common stock of $.2 million, offset by dividends of $1.7 million and stock purchases of $.7 million.
The Company utilizes a $100.0 million revolving credit facility with six banks (the "Revolver"). Under the Revolver, the Company may, at its option, borrow at floating interest rates (LIBOR plus a spread ranging from .75% to 1.625% determined by the Company’s financial condition and performance), at any time until September 2010, when all borrowings under the Revolver must be repaid.
The Company's lending agreements contain various restrictive covenants, including the requirement to maintain specified amounts of net worth and restrictions on cash dividends, borrowings, liens, investments, guarantees, and financial covenants. The Company is required to maintain consolidated net worth of $181.4 million plus 50% of net income and 75% of proceeds from any equity issued after January 24, 2003. The Company's consolidated net worth exceeded the covenant amount by $124.0 million as of February 25, 2007. The Company is required to maintain a consolidated leverage ratio of consolidated funded indebtedness to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") of no more than 2.5 times. As of February 25, 2007, the Company maintained a consolidated leverage ratio of 1.07 times EBITDA. Lending agreements require that the Company maintain qualified consolidated tangible assets at least equal to the outstanding secured funded indebtedness. As of February 25, 2007, qualifying tangible assets equaled 2.40 times funded indebtedness. Under the most restrictive fixed charge coverage ratio, the sum of EBITDA and rental expense less cash taxes must be at least 1.35 times the sum of interest expense, rental expense, dividends and scheduled funded debt payments. As of February 25, 2007, the Company maintained such a fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.91 times. Under the most restrictive provisions of the Company’s lending agreements, approximately $14.0 million of retained earnings was not restricted, as of February 25, 2007, as to the declaration of cash dividends or the repurchase of Company stock. At February, 25, 2007, the Company was in compliance with all covenants.
Cash and cash equivalents at February 25, 2007 totaled $127.7 million, a decrease of $11.8 million from November 30, 2006. At February 25, 2007, the Company had total debt outstanding of $81.3 million, compared to $82.5 million at November 30, 2006, and approximately $121.2 million in unused committed and uncommitted credit lines available from foreign and domestic banks. The Company's highest borrowing and the average borrowing levels during 2007 were $83.2 million and $82.2 million, respectively.
Management believes that cash flow from operations and current cash balances, together with currently available lines of credit, will be sufficient to meet operating requirements in 2007. The Company did not contribute to the U.S. pension plan in the first quarter of 2007. The Company expects to contribute $3.0 million to its U.S. pension plan and $.6 million to its non-U.S. pension plan in 2007. The Company may make additional contributions in 2007 depending on how the funded status of plans change and as the Company gains more clarity with respect to the Pension Protection Act of 2006 (“PPA”) that was signed into law on August 17, 2006.
Cash available from operations could be affected by any general economic downturn or any decline or adverse changes in the Company's business, such as a loss of customers or significant raw material price increases. Management does not believe it likely that business or economic conditions will worsen or that costs will increase sufficiently to materially impact short-term liquidity.
The Company's contractual obligations and commercial commitments at February 25, 2007 are summarized as follows (in thousands):
Payments Due by Period | ||||||||||||||||
Less than | After 5 | |||||||||||||||
Contractual Obligations | Total | 1 year | 1-3 years | 4-5 years | years | |||||||||||
Long-term debt (a) | $ | 81,263 | $ | 10,000 | $ | 33,328 | $ | 15,571 | $ | 22,364 | ||||||
Interest payments on debt (b) | 15,996 | 3,486 | 5,258 | 3,056 | 4,196 | |||||||||||
Operating leases | 31,235 | 3,452 | 6,407 | 5,003 | 16,373 | |||||||||||
Purchase obligations (c) | 3,728 | 3,728 | - | - | - | |||||||||||
Total contractual obligations (d) | $ | 132,222 | $ | 20,666 | $ | 44,993 | $ | 23,630 | $ | 42,933 |
Commitments Expiring Per Period | ||||||||||||||||
Less than | After | |||||||||||||||
Contractual Commitments | Total | 1 year | 1-3 years | 3-5 years | 5 years | |||||||||||
Standby letters of credit (e) | $ | 1,946 | $ | 1,946 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - | ||||||
Total commercial commitments (d) | $ | 1,946 | $ | 1,946 | $ | - | $ | - | $ | - |
(a) Included in long-term debt is $2,243 outstanding under a foreign revolving credit facility, which is supported by the Revolver.
(b) Future interest payments related to debt obligations, excluding the Revolver and the industrial development bonds.
(c) Obligation to purchase sand used in the Company's ready-mix operations in Hawaii.
(d) The Company has no capitalized lease obligations, unconditional purchase obligations or standby repurchases obligations.
(e) Not included are standby letters of credit totaling $16,065 supporting industrial development bonds with principal of $15,700. The principal amount of the industrial development bonds is included in long-term debt. The standby letters of credit are issued under the Revolver.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
General
Income from continuing operations totaled $8.3 million, or $.92 per diluted share, on sales of $120.4 million for the quarter ended February 25, 2007, compared to income from continuing operations of $3.8 million, or $.43 per diluted share, on sales of $126.0 million for the same period in 2006. The Fiberglass-Composite Pipe Group reported higher sales and profits due primarily to improved market conditions. The Infrastructure Products Group reported slightly lower sales and profits due to the fewer days in the first quarter of 2007, compared to the first quarter of 2006. The Water Transmission Group reported much lower sales and a loss due to the timing of pipe projects and the start-up costs related to the wind-tower expansion. Income from continuing operations was higher in 2007, in spite of the shorter period, due primarily to higher interest income and higher earnings from TAMCO, the Company’s 50%-owned steel venture in California. Equity in earnings of TAMCO increased by $4.2 million compared to the first quarter of 2006.
Income from discontinued operations, net of taxes, totaled $.2 million, or $.02 per diluted share for the quarter ended February 25, 2007, compared to loss of $.2 million, or $.02 per diluted share, for the same period in 2006. During the first quarter of 2007, the Company recognized a net research and development tax credit of $.2 million related to discontinued operations. Discontinued operations generated sales of $49.3 million for the first quarter of 2006.
Sales
Sales decreased $5.6 million in the first quarter of 2007, compared to the similar period in 2006, due in part to the shorter period in 2007. The Fiberglass-Composite Pipe Group reported higher sales, while both the Infrastructure Products Group and the Water Transmission Group reported lower sales.
Fiberglass-Composite Pipe's sales increased $9.9 million, or 27.1%, in the first quarter, compared to the similar period in 2006. Sales from Asian operations increased $9.1 million for the first quarter of 2007, driven mostly by increasing activity in the marine, industrial and offshore segments. Sales from U.S. and European operations increased $.8 million for the first quarter of 2007 due to volume growth in industrial and marine markets. The strong demand for oilfield and offshore marine piping continues to be driven by high oil prices and the high cost of steel piping, the principal substitute for fiberglass pipe. The outlook for the Fiberglass Composite Pipe Group remains favorable.
Water Transmission Group's sales decreased $13.6 million, or 31.5%, in the first quarter of 2007, compared to the similar period in 2006. The Group continued to be impacted by the sluggish pipe market in the western U.S. and the timing of projects. In addition, the Group also experienced slower-than-expected wind-tower sales due to production start-up delays, related to the new facility. Revenue is recognized in the Water Transmission Group primarily under the percentage-of-completion method and is subject to a certain level of estimation, which affects the timing of revenue recognition, costs and profits. Estimates are reviewed on a consistent basis and are adjusted when actual results are expected to significantly differ from those estimates. Market conditions for water pipe remain soft due to continuation of a cyclical slowdown in water infrastructure projects in the Company's markets. However, the market for wind towers is robust.
Infrastructure Products' sales decreased $1.1 million, or 2.4%, in the first quarter compared to the similar periods in 2006. Pole Products Division experienced a slight decrease in volume due to a shorter quarter in 2007. The Company’s Hawaiian Division had lower sales due to weather and project timing. Although the housing market has softened, the outlook for the Infrastructure Products Group’s other construction markets remains firm.
Gross Profit
Gross profit in the first quarter of 2007 was $25.3 million, or 21.0% of sales, compared to $28.6 million, or 22.7% of sales, in the first quarter of 2006. Gross profit decreased $3.3 million in the first quarter compared to the similar period in 2006 due to lower sales and margins. Margins decreased due to conditions within the Water Transmission Group offset by improvements by the Fiberglass-Composite Pipe Group.
Fiberglass-Composite Pipe Group's gross profit increased $3.1 million in the first quarter of 2007, compared to the same period of 2006. Profit margins were 30.4% in the first quarter of 2007, compared to 30.1% for the same period of 2006. Margins were higher in the first quarter due to improvements in product and market mix and price increases. Increased sales volume generated additional gross profit of $3.0 million while favorable product mix generated additional gross profit of $.1 million in 2007.
Water Transmission Group's gross profit decreased $6.0 million in the first quarter of 2007, compared to the same period of 2006. Profit margins declined to 2.7% in the first quarter of 2007, compared to 15.7% for the same period of 2006. Lower sales volume reduced profit by $2.1 million for the quarter, while lower margins reduced gross profit by $2.9 million for the quarter in 2007. Margins were unfavorably impacted by the mix of contract margins, start-up costs associated with the introduction of wind towers and lower efficiencies due to lower sales. In addition, during the first quarter of 2007 the Group recognized approximately $1.0 million in repair costs associated with a project in Northern California which was completed in 2006.
Gross profit in the Infrastructure Products Group decreased $.3 million in the first quarter of 2007, compared to the same period of 2006. Profit margins declined slightly to 23.2% in the first quarter of 2007, compared to 23.4% for the same period of 2006. Decreased sales volume reduced profit by $.3 million while lower margins reduced gross profit by $.1 million in 2007.
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") expenses totaled $21.5 million, or 17.9% of sales, in the first quarter of 2007, compared to $23.0 million, or 18.2% of sales, in the first quarter of 2006. The $1.5 million decrease included lower incentive and stock compensation expenses of $1.4 million, lower pension and self-insurance expenses of $1.2million, offset by higher tax-consulting fees and other expenses of $1.1 million.
Other Income, Net
Other income was $1.0 million in the first quarter of 2007, an increase of $1.0 million compared to the first quarter of 2006, due primarily to foreign exchange gains and rental income. Other income included royalties and fees from licensees, foreign currency transaction adjustments, and other miscellaneous income.
Interest
Net interest income totaled $.4 million in the first quarter of 2007, compared net interest expense of $1.0 million in the first quarter of 2006. The increase in net interest income was due to higher interest income from short-term investments, higher cash balances and lower debt levels.
Provision for Income Taxes
Income taxes increased to $1.9 million in the first quarter of 2007, compared to $1.7 million in the comparable period of 2006. The effective tax rate increased to 36.9% in 2007 from 36.0% in 2006. The effective tax rate for the first quarter of 2007 is based on forecasted full-year earnings and the anticipated mix of domestic and foreign earnings. Income from certain foreign operations and joint ventures is taxed at rates that are lower than the U.S. statutory tax rates. The effective tax rate for the first quarter of 2007 is not necessarily indicative of the tax rate for the full fiscal year.
Equity in Earnings of Joint Venture, Net of Taxes
Equity in earnings of joint venture increased to $5.0 million in the first quarter of 2007, compared to $.8 million in 2006. Equity income increased due to TAMCO, the Company’s 50%-owned mini-mill in California. TAMCO's profits in the first quarter rose due to increased demand for steel rebar and higher selling prices. The outlook for TAMCO remains positive.
Income from Discontinued Operations, Net of Taxes
During the first quarter of 2007, the Company recognized $.2 million of research and development tax credit that related to the Coatings Business, which was sold in 2006, as income from discontinued operations, net of taxes, compared to net loss of $.2 million for the same period in 2006. This tax credit arose from the retroactive application of tax legislation enacted in December 2006.
ITEM 3 - QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
No material changes have occurred in the quantitative and qualitative market risk disclosure as presented in the Company’s 2006 Annual Report.
ITEM 4 - CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedure - Management has established disclosure controls and procedures to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the Commission's rules and forms and that such information relating to the Company, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures
Based on their evaluation as of February 25, 2007, the principal executive officer and principal financial officer of the Company have concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) are effective to ensure that the information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in SEC rules and forms, and is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
There has been no change in the Company's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the last fiscal quarter covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.
CAUTIONARY STATEMENT FOR PURPOSES OF THE "SAFE HARBOR" PROVISIONS OF THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995
Any of the statements contained in this report that refer to the Company's forecasted, estimated or anticipated future results are forward-looking and reflect the Company's current analysis of existing trends and information. Actual results may differ from current expectations based on a number of factors affecting the Company’s businesses, including competitive conditions and changing market conditions. In addition, matters affecting the economy generally, including the state of economies worldwide, can affect the Company's results. These forward-looking statements represent the Company's judgment only as of the date of this report. Since actual results could differ materially, the reader is cautioned not to rely on these forward-looking statements. Moreover, the Company disclaims any intent or obligation to update these forward-looking statements.
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 1 - LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
No material changes have occurred in legal proceedings as presented in the Company’s 2006 Annual Report.
ITEM 1A - RISK FACTORS
No material changes have occurred in risk factors as presented in the Company’s 2006 Annual Report.
ITEM 2 - UNREGISTERED SALES OF EQUITY SECURITIES AND USE OF PROCEEDS
Terms of lending agreements which place restrictions on cash dividends are discussed in Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations under Item 2, herein, and Note (10) of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, under Part I, Item 1.
ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
(c) | (d) | |||||||
Number of Shares | Maximum Number | |||||||
(a) | (b) | (or Units) Purchased | (or Approximate Dollar Value) | |||||
Total Number of | Average Price | As Part of Publicly | Of Shares (or Units) that May | |||||
Shares (or Units) | Paid per | Announced Plans or | Yet Be Purchased Under | |||||
Period | Purchased | Share (or Unit) | Programs | The Plans or Programs** | ||||
12/1/06 thru 12/31/06 | - | N/A | - | 40,924 | ||||
1/1/07 thru 1/28/07 | 5,526 | $75.39 | - | 27,528 | ||||
1/29/07 thru 2/25/07 | 6,315 | $84.24 | - | 40,727 |
**Shares may be repurchased by the Company to pay taxes applicable to the vesting of restricted stock. The number of shares does not include shares which may be repurchased to pay social security taxes applicable to the vesting of such restricted stock.
ITEM 3 - DEFAULTS UPON SENIOR SECURITIES
None.
ITEM 4 - SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
No matters were submitted to a vote of security holders during the first quarter of 2007.
ITEM 5 - OTHER INFORMATION
No material changes have occurred in the other information disclosure as presented in the Company’s 2006 Annual Report
ITEM 6 - EXHIBITS
EXHIBIT | EXHIBITS OF AMERON |
* A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to Ameron International Corporation and will be retained by Ameron International Corporation and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.
(b) REPORTS ON FORM 8-K
Three reports on Form 8-K were filed by the Company during the first quarter of 2007 as follows:
January 11, 2007 reporting the Company's quarterly dividend of $.20 per share and the date of the Annual Meeting of Stockholders, as reported in a press release dated January 11, 2007.
February 1, 2007 reporting the Company's results of operations for the year ended November 30, 2006, as reported in a press release dated February 1, 2007. Also reported were actions of the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors with regard to the compensation of certain executive officers.
February 12, 2007 reporting actions of the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors with regard to the compensation of certain executive officers.
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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.
AMERON INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
By: | /s/ James R. McLaughlin | |
James R. McLaughlin, Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer |
Date: April 6, 2007