SCHEDULE 14A INFORMATION
Proxy Statement Pursuant to Section 14(a) of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
(Amendment No. __)
Filed by the Registrant [X]
Filed by a Party other than the Registrant [ ]
Check the appropriate box:
[ ] Preliminary Proxy Statement
[ ] Confidential, for Use of the Commission Only (as permitted by
Rule 14a-6(e)(2))
[ X ] Definitive Proxy Statement
[ ] Definitive Additional Materials
[ ] Soliciting Material Pursuant to Section 240.14a-11(c) or
Section 240.14a-12
AMCOL INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
(Name of Registrant as Specified In Its Charter)
(Name of Person(s) Filing Proxy Statement, if other than the Registrant)
Payment of Filing Fee (Check the appropriate box):
[X] No fee required.
[ ] Fee computed on table below per Exchange Act Rules 14a-6(i)(1) and 0-11.
(1) Title of each class of securities to which transaction applies:
Common Stock, par value $.01 per share
(2) Aggregate number of securities to which transactions applies:
(3) Per unit price or other underlying value of transaction computed
pursuant to Exchange Act Rule 0-11 (Set forth the amount on which
the filing fee is calculated and state how it was determined):
(4) Proposed maximum aggregate value of transaction:
(5) Total fee paid:
[ ] Fee paid previously with preliminary materials.
[ ] Check box if any part of the fee is offset as provided by Exchange Act
Rule 0-11(a)(2) and identify the filing for which the offsetting fee
was paid previously. Identify the previous filing by registration
statement number, or the Form or Schedule and the date of its filing.
(1) Amount Previously Paid:
(2) Form, Schedule or Registration Statement No.:
(3) Filing Party:
(4) Date Filed:
AMCOL INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
One North Arlington
1500 West Shure Drive, Suite 500
Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004-7803
NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
To Be Held On May 17, 2001
To Our Shareholders:
The annual meeting of shareholders of AMCOL International Corporation, or
AMCOL, will take place on Thursday, May 17, 2001, at 11:00 a.m., local time, at
the Wyndham Hotel, 400 Park Boulevard, Itasca, Illinois, for the following
purposes:
1. To elect five (5) directors, three for a three-year term and two
for a one-year term, or until their successors are elected and
qualified.
2. To amend AMCOL's 1998 Long-Term Incentive Plan.
3. To transact any other business which properly comes before the
annual meeting.
Only shareholders of record of AMCOL's common stock as of the close of
business on March 21, 2001 will be entitled to notice of and to vote at the
annual meeting and at any adjournments of the annual meeting.
The Board of Directors recommends that you vote "FOR" each of AMCOL's
nominees for director and "FOR" approval of the amendments to AMCOL's 1998
Long-Term Incentive Plan.
Whether or not you plan to attend the annual meeting, please complete,
sign, date and mail the proxy card in the enclosed self-addressed, postage-paid
envelope, or vote by telephone in accordance with the instructions provided.
Please do not submit a proxy card if you have voted by telephone. If you attend
the annual meeting, you may revoke your proxy and, if you wish, vote your shares
in person. Thank you for your interest and cooperation.
By Order of the Board of Directors,
Clarence O. Redman
Secretary
Arlington Heights, Illinois
April 10, 2001
AMCOL INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
One North Arlington
1500 West Shure Drive, Suite 500
Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004-7803
PROXY STATEMENT
ANNUAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS
To Be Held On May 17, 2001
INTRODUCTION
We are furnishing this proxy statement to you in connection with the
solicitation of proxies by the Board of Directors of AMCOL International
Corporation, or AMCOL, for use at our annual meeting of shareholders to be held
on Thursday, May 17, 2001, at 11:00 a.m., Central Daylight Savings Time, at the
Wyndham Hotel, 400 Park Boulevard, Itasca, Illinois, and at any adjournment of
the annual meeting. This proxy statement and the accompanying proxy card are
first being mailed or delivered to shareholders of AMCOL on or about April 10,
2001.
At the annual meeting, you will be asked to consider and vote upon the
following matters:
1. The election of five (5) directors, three for a three-year term
and two for a one-year term, or until their successors are
elected and qualified.
2. Amendments to AMCOL's 1998 Long-Term Incentive Plan.
3. Any other business which properly comes before the annual
meeting.
The Board of Directors recommends that you vote "FOR" each of AMCOL's
nominees for director and "FOR" approval of the amendments to AMCOL's 1998
Long-Term Incentive Plan.
Whether or not you plan to attend the annual meeting, please complete,
sign, date and mail the proxy card in the enclosed self-addressed, postage-paid
envelope, or vote by telephone in accordance with the instructions provided.
Please do not submit a proxy card if you have voted by telephone. If you attend
the annual meeting, you may revoke your proxy and, if you wish, vote your shares
in person.
The date of this proxy statement is April 10, 2001.
THE ANNUAL MEETING
General
This proxy statement is being furnished in connection with the solicitation
of proxies by the Board of Directors of AMCOL for use at the annual meeting to
be held on Thursday, May 17, 2001, at 11:00 a.m., Central Daylight Savings Time,
at the Wyndham Hotel, 400 Park Boulevard, Itasca, Illinois, and at any
adjournment of the annual meeting.
Record Date
The Board of Directors has fixed the close of business on March 21, 2001,
as the record date for the determination of shareholders entitled to notice of,
and to vote at, the annual meeting or any adjournment. Accordingly, only holders
of record of AMCOL's common stock at the close of business on the record date
will be entitled to vote at the annual meeting, either by proxy, telephone or in
person. As of the record date, there were 27,963,106 shares of AMCOL's common
stock issued and outstanding. Each share of AMCOL's common stock entitles the
holder to one vote.
Purpose of the Annual Meeting; Recommendation of the Board of Directors
At the annual meeting, AMCOL's shareholders will be asked to consider and
vote upon the following matters:
the election of five directors;
amendments to AMCOL's 1998 Long-Term Incentive Plan; and
any other business which properly comes before the annual meeting.
The Board of Directors recommends that you vote "FOR" each of AMCOL's
nominees for director and "FOR" approval of the amendments to AMCOL's 1998
Long-Term Incentive Plan.
Proxies; Vote Required
Under Delaware law, the election of the five directors and the amendments
to AMCOL's 1998 Long-Term Incentive Plan must be approved by the holders of a
majority of the shares of AMCOL's common stock represented at the annual
meeting.
All properly executed proxies received by AMCOL prior to the annual meeting
and not revoked will be voted in accordance with the instructions marked
thereon. Unless contrary instructions are marked, proxies will be voted "FOR"
each of AMCOL's nominees for director and "FOR" the amendments to AMCOL's 1998
Long-Term Incentive Plan. The Board of Directors knows of no other business
which will be presented for consideration at the annual meeting. If any other
matter is properly presented, it is the intention of the persons named in the
enclosed proxy to vote in accordance with their best judgment. Any shareholder
may revoke his or her proxy at any time prior to the exercise thereof by doing
any of the following:
giving written notice to the Secretary of AMCOL at One North Arlington,
1500 West Shure Drive, Suite 500, Arlington Heights, Illinois, 60004-7803;
submitting a duly executed proxy bearing a later date;
voting by telephone on a later date; or
attending the annual meeting and voting in person.
Attendance at the annual meeting will not, in itself, constitute revocation
of a proxy.
The presence, in person or by proxy, of the holders of a majority of the
outstanding shares of AMCOL's common stock is necessary to constitute a quorum
at the annual meeting. In deciding all questions, a holder of AMCOL's common
stock is entitled to one vote, in person or by proxy, for each share held in
such holder's name on the record date. Abstentions and broker non-votes are
counted for purposes of determining the presence or absence of a quorum for the
transaction of business but are not counted for purposes of determining whether
a proposal has been approved. Thus, abstentions and broker non-votes will have
the same effect as a vote against AMCOL's nominees for directors and the
amendments to AMCOL's 1998 Long-Term Incentive Plan.
Proxy Solicitation and Expenses
The accompanying proxy is being solicited on behalf of the Board of
Directors of AMCOL. All expenses of this solicitation, including the cost of
preparing and mailing this proxy statement, will be paid by AMCOL. Solicitation
of holders of AMCOL's common stock by mail, telephone, facsimile or by personal
solicitation may be done by directors, officers and regular employees of AMCOL,
for which they will receive no additional compensation. Brokerage houses and
other nominees, fiduciaries and custodians nominally holding shares of AMCOL's
common stock as of the record date will be requested to forward proxy soliciting
material to the beneficial owners of such shares, and will be reimbursed by
AMCOL for their reasonable out-of-pocket expenses.
PROPOSAL 1: ELECTION OF DIRECTORS
AMCOL's Board of Directors consists of 10 directors. AMCOL's Certificate of
Incorporation divides the Board of Directors into three classes, the members of
one class to be elected each year for a three-year term. The terms of the Class
III directors will expire at the Annual Meeting. Following the resignation of
two directors during the last year, the Board of Directors has decided to
restructure the Board classes rather then fill the vacancies on the Board
resulting from those resignations. In connection with the restructuring of the
Board classes, John Hughes and Lawrence E. Washow, currently Class III
directors, have been nominated by the Board of Directors as Class I directors to
serve one-year terms. Arthur Brown, Jay D. Proops and Paul C. Weaver will remain
Class III directors and have been nominated by the Board of Directors as Class
III directors to serve three-year terms. The following tables set forth certain
information regarding the director nominees and the continuing members of the
Board:
Information Concerning Nominees
CLASS III
(Term expiring in 2004)
Name Age Director Since Principal Occupation for Last Five Years
Arthur Brown 60 1990 Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hecla Mining
Company.
Jay D. Proops 59 1995 Private investor since 1995; prior thereto, Vice Chairman and
co-founder of The Vigoro Corporation. Also a Director of Great Lakes
Chemical Corporation.
Paul C. Weaver* 38 1995 Managing partner of Consumer Aptitudes, Inc. since July 1997, a
marketing research firm; prior thereto, various sales and account
management positions for AC Nielsen Company, a provider of marketing
information services.
<FN>
* Paul C. Weaver and Audrey L. Weaver are first cousins.
</FN>
CLASS I
(Term expiring in 2002)
Name Age Director Since Principal Occupation for Last Five Years
John Hughes 58 1984 Chairman of the Board. Chief Executive Officer of AMCOL from 1985
until May 2000.
Lawrence E. Washow 47 1998 President and Chief Executive Officer of AMCOL since May 2000,
Chief Operating Officer of AMCOL since August 1997; prior thereto,
Senior Vice President of AMCOL and President of Chemdal
International Corporation (unit sold to BASF AG in June 2000).
Each nominee must receive the favorable vote of the holders of a majority
of the shares of common stock represented at the annual meeting in person or by
proxy, assuming a quorum is present.
The Board of Directors recommends that AMCOL's shareholders vote "FOR" each
of the nominees named above.
Information Concerning Continuing Members of the Board
CLASS I
(Term expiring 2002)
Name Age Director Since Principal Occupation for Last Five Years
Clarence O. Redman 58 1989 Secretary of AMCOL. Also, of counsel to Lord, Bissell & Brook since
October 1997, the law firm that serves as Corporate Counsel to
AMCOL; prior thereto, he was the sole shareholder and President of
Clarence Owen Redman, Ltd., a corporate partner of the law firm of
Keck, Mahin & Cate. Mr. Redman and his professional corporation
also served as Chief Executive Officer of Keck, Mahin & Cate. In
December 1997, Keck, Mahin & Cate filed a voluntary petition in
bankruptcy under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code.
Audrey L. Weaver* 46 1997 Private investor.
<FN>
* Paul C. Weaver and Audrey L. Weaver are first cousins.
</FN>
CLASS II
(Term expiring in 2003)
Name Age Director Since Principal Occupation for Last Five Years
Robert E. Driscoll, III 62 1985 Retired Dean and Professor of Law, University of South Dakota.
C. Eugene Ray 68 1981 Retired Executive Vice President - Finance of Signode Industries,
Inc., a manufacturer of industrial strapping products.
Dale E. Stahl 53 1995 President and Chief Operating Officer of Inland Paperboard and
Packaging, Inc., a manufacturer of containerboard and corrugated
boxes since June 2000; prior thereto President and Chief Operating
Officer of Gaylord Container Corporation, a manufacturer and
distributor of brown paper and packaging products.
PROPOSAL 2: AMENDMENTS TO AMCOL'S 1998 LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN
General
The Board of Directors has adopted, subject to shareholder approval,
amendments to AMCOL's 1998 Long-Term Incentive Plan, or the Plan. The Plan was
approved by AMCOL's shareholders at AMCOL's annual meeting in 1998. Under the
proposed amendments, the maximum number of shares of AMCOL common stock with
respect to which awards may be issued under the Plan will be increased from
1,900,000 to 2,900,000. As the result of the $14.00 per share payment made in
connection with the plan of partial liquidation on June 30, 2000, of
substantially all of the after-tax net proceeds from the sale of AMCOL's
absorbent polymers segment to BASF AG, outstanding stock options under the Plan
on that date were adjusted pursuant to the terms of the Plan to reflect AMCOL's
reduced value immediately following the dividend. These adjustments increased
the number of AMCOL shares of common stock subject to outstanding options under
the Plan from 237,865 to 1,365,139. After option grants for fiscal year 2000 and
option cancellations, only 231,709 shares of AMCOL common stock remain with
respect to which awards may be issued under the Plan as of December 31, 2000.
In addition, under the proposed amendments, the Committee of the Board of
Directors charged with administering the Plan will be allowed, in the event of
an extraordinary dividend or other distribution, merger, reorganization,
consolidation, combination, sale of assets, split up, exchange, spin-off or
other extraordinary corporate event, to make cash payments or substitute or
exchange outstanding awards made under the Plan based upon the distribution or
consideration payable to holders of AMCOL's common stock upon or in respect of
such event. The amendments further provide that with respect to any incentive
stock option, or ISO, the Committee cannot make a cash payment, substitution or
exchange if doing so would cause the Plan to violate Section 422 of the Internal
Revenue Code (or any successor provision). Under the existing provisions of the
Plan, the Committee does not have the ability to make such cash payments,
substitutions or exchanges. The effect of the amendments will be to provide the
Committee with greater flexibility to deal with awards under the Plan in the
event of a merger or other extraordinary corporate event and to allow AMCOL to
attract and retain the best available employees and directors and encourage
these individuals to take into account AMCOL's long-term interests through
ownership of AMCOL common stock. The amendments will become effective
immediately upon receipt of shareholder approval of the amendments at the annual
meeting.
The following is a brief description of the material features of the Plan.
You are encouraged to read the Plan in its entirety. This document has been
filed with the SEC and is publicly available.
Purpose
The purpose of the Plan is to provide officers, directors and employees who
have substantial responsibility for the direction and management of AMCOL with
an additional incentive to promote the success of AMCOL's business, to encourage
such persons to remain in the service of AMCOL and to enable them to acquire
proprietary interests in AMCOL. Last year 85 participants received grants
pursuant to the plan, including 9 non-executive directors, 8 executive officers
and 58 employee participants.
Awards
The Plan provides for the granting of awards of restricted stock, ISOs,
nonqualified stock options, or NSOs, and stock appreciation rights, or SARs. The
Plan permits a total of 1,900,000 shares of AMCOL's common stock to be awarded
to participants. If the amendments to the Plan are approved, the Plan will
permit a total of 2,900,000 shares of AMCOL's common stock to be awarded to
participants. As of March 21, 2001 the closing sale price of AMCOL's common
stock was $3.87 per share as reported by the New York Stock Exchange.
The Committee
The Plan is administered by a committee composed of two or more individuals
elected by the Board of Directors from time to time. The committee must be
composed of directors. Currently, the Plan is administered by the Compensation
Committee of the Board of Directors. The Compensation Committee from time to
time grants awards under the Plan to selected eligible directors, officers and
employees, without payment by the participant.
Restricted Stock Awards
The Plan permits the granting of awards of restricted stock to any
participant. Awards of restricted stock may be issued to participants without
payment. Upon completion of a vesting period and the fulfillment of any required
conditions, restrictions upon the restricted stock expire and new certificates
representing unrestricted shares of common stock are issued to the participant.
Generally, the participant will have all of the rights of a shareholder of AMCOL
with respect to his shares of restricted stock including, but not limited to,
the right to vote such shares and the right to receive dividends payable with
respect to the shares of restricted stock.
Incentive Stock Options
The Plan provides for the granting of ISOs to any employee of AMCOL. The
committee has the authority to determine the terms and conditions of each ISO
grant, including without limitation, the number of shares subject to each ISO
and the option period. The ISO exercise price is also determined by the
committee and may not be less than the fair market value of AMCOL's common stock
on the date of grant. The exercise price may not be less than 110% of such fair
market value if the participant was the holder of more than 10% of AMCOL's
outstanding voting securities.
Unless the committee otherwise determines, the option period for ISOs
granted under the Plan will expire upon the earliest of:
ten years after the date of grant (five years in the case of a holder of
more than 10% of AMCOL's outstanding voting securities);
three months after termination of employment for any reason other than
cause, death or total and permanent disability;
immediately upon termination of employment for cause;
twelve months after death or termination of employment on account of total
and permanent disability; or
such other date or event as specified by the committee.
Nonqualified Stock Options
The Plan provides for the granting of NSOs to any participant. The
committee has the authority to determine the terms and conditions of each grant
including the number of shares subject to each NSO, the option period and the
option exercise price. The NSO exercise price may not be less than 85% of the
fair market value of the common stock on the date of grant.
Unless the committee otherwise determines, the option period for NSOs
granted pursuant to the Plan will expire upon the earliest of:
ten years after the date of grant;
three months after termination of employment for any reason other than
cause, death, total and permanent disability or retirement after age 65
(nonemployee directors will be treated as being terminated when they cease
to serve on the Board);
immediately upon termination of employment for cause;
sixty months after termination of employment on account of retirement after
age 65;
twelve months after death or termination of employment on account of total
and permanent disability; or
such other date or event as specified by the committee.
Stock Appreciation Rights
The Plan provides for the granting of SARs to any participant. SARs granted
by the committee pursuant to the Plan may relate to and be associated with all
or any part of a specific ISO or NSO. An SAR shall entitle the participant to
surrender any then exercisable portion of the SAR and, if applicable, the
related ISO or NSO. In exchange, the participant would receive from AMCOL an
amount equal to the product of the excess of the fair market value of the common
stock on the date the SARs were issued, or, if the SARs are related to an ISO or
an NSO, the per share exercise price under such option and the number of shares
of common stock subject to such SAR, and, if applicable, the related option
which is surrendered. SARs may be exercisable during a period established by the
committee and, if related to an ISO or NSO, shall terminate on the same date as
the related option. Upon exercise, participants may be paid in shares of common
stock or cash, as determined by the committee.
The Manner of Exercise
The committee may permit the exercise price for options granted under the
Plan to be paid in cash or shares of common stock, including shares of common
stock which the participant received upon the exercise of one or more options.
The committee may also permit the option exercise price to be paid by the
participant's delivery of an election directing AMCOL to withhold shares of
common stock from the common stock otherwise due upon exercise of the option or
any method permitted by law.
Vesting
Unless the committee establishes a different vesting schedule at the time
of grant, awards generally vest 40% after two years, 60% after three years, 80%
after four years and 100% after five years. A participant may not exercise an
option or SAR or transfer shares of restricted stock until the award has vested.
Under the Plan, generally, if a participant's employment with AMCOL or
service on the Board is terminated due to retirement, death, disability or a
change in control of AMCOL (as determined by the committee), the committee may,
in its discretion, accelerate vesting. If a participant's employment with or
service to AMCOL is terminated for any other reason, any awards that are not yet
vested are forfeited.
Nontransferability
Awards are not transferable other than by will or the laws of descent and
distribution or pursuant to a qualified domestic relations order as defined by
the Internal Revenue Code, or Code; provided, however, that NSOs, SARs and
restricted stock are transferable in the committee's discretion after vesting.
Withholding Tax
AMCOL shall have the right to withhold in cash or shares of common stock
with respect to any payments made to participants, any taxes required by law to
be withheld because of such payments.
Amendment; Termination
The Board of Directors may amend the Plan at any time, but may not impair
the rights of participants with respect to any outstanding awards without the
consent of participants.
The Plan will terminate ten years after its adoption by the Board of
Directors; provided, however, that the Board of Directors may terminate the Plan
at any time.
Federal Tax Consequences-Incentive Stock Options
Provided a participant is an employee of AMCOL during the period beginning
on the date of grant of the ISO and ending on the day three months before the
date of exercise, neither the grant nor the exercise of an ISO has an immediate
tax consequence to the participant or AMCOL. If subsequent to the exercise of an
ISO the participant does not dispose of the acquired common stock within two
years after the date of the grant of the ISO, or within one year after the date
of the transfer of the common stock to
the participant, or the holding period, AMCOL is not entitled to a tax
deduction, the participant realizes no ordinary income, and any gain or loss
that is realized on the subsequent sale or taxable exchange of the common stock
is treated as a long-term capital gain or loss. Some tax deductions and
exclusions, known as "tax preference items," give rise to an "alternative
minimum tax" enacted to recapture some of the tax savings provided by such tax
preference items. The tax benefits associated with an ISO are tax preference
items that may affect the alternative minimum tax that must be paid by certain
high-income individuals.
If a participant exercised an ISO and disposes of the acquired common stock
before the end of the holding period, the participant realizes ordinary income
in an amount equal to the lesser of the fair market value of the common stock on
the date of exercise over the option price of the common stock, or the amount
realized on disposition over the adjusted basis of the common stock. Any
remaining gain will be considered capital gain to the participant. AMCOL will be
entitled to a corresponding tax deduction in the same amount and at the same
time, subject to the limitations imposed by Code Section 162(m).
Code Section 162(m) denies a deduction to any publicly held corporation for
compensation paid to certain "covered employees" in a taxable year to the extent
that such compensation exceeds $1,000,000. "Covered employees" are a
corporation's chief executive officer on the last day of the taxable year and
any other individuals whose compensation is required to be reported to
shareholders under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 by reason of being among
the four most highly compensated officers (other than the chief executive
officer) for the taxable year and who are employed on the last day of the
taxable year. Compensation paid under some qualified performance-based
compensation arrangements, which (among other things) provide for compensation
based on pre-established performance goals established by a compensation
committee that is composed solely of two or more "outside directors," is not
considered in determining whether a "covered employee's" compensation exceeds
$1,000,000.
Federal Tax Consequences-Non-Qualified Stock Options
Generally, the recipient of an NSO realizes no taxable income at the time
of grant. Similarly, AMCOL is not entitled to a deduction with respect to the
grant of an NSO.
Upon the exercise of an NSO, a participant realizes income at ordinary
income tax rates. The amount included in income is the excess of the fair market
value of the common stock acquired (as of the date of exercise) over the
exercise price. AMCOL will generally be entitled to a corresponding deduction
equal to this amount for AMCOL's taxable year that ends with or includes the end
of the participant's taxable year of income inclusion, subject to the
limitations imposed by Code Section 162(m).
A participant's basis in the common stock acquired upon the exercise of an
NSO will be the exercise price, plus any amount includable in the participant's
gross income upon the exercise of the NSO. The gain or loss realized by the
participant upon a subsequent sale or exchange of the shares will be a capital
gain or loss.
Federal Tax Consequences-Restricted Stock
Generally, because of the risk of forfeiture prior to vesting (and certain
other restrictions that may be imposed by the committee), no taxable income will
be recognized by the participant upon an award of restricted stock. Absent an
election under Section 83(b) of the Code, the participant is deemed to receive
ordinary income at the time the restrictions on the restricted stock lapse. The
amount of the participant's taxable income is equal to the fair market value of
the restricted stock, less any amount paid by the participant for the restricted
stock. However, a participant may make an election under Section 83(b) of the
Code, within thirty days of the date of issuance of the restricted stock, to be
taxed at the time of issuance. Any participant who makes such an election
recognizes ordinary income on the date of issuance of the restricted stock equal
to its fair market value at that time, less any amount paid by the participant
for the restricted stock. The participant's basis in this stock will be
increased by the amount includable in his or her gross income under Code Section
83.
AMCOL is entitled to a deduction equal to the amount includable in the
participant's gross income for AMCOL's tax year in which or with which ends the
participant's taxable year in which the amount is included in the participant's
gross income. AMCOL's deduction is also subject to the limitations imposed by
Code Section 162(m) mentioned above. If the participant subsequently disposes of
the restricted stock after it becomes substantially vested, the participant will
recognize capital gain or loss equal to the difference between the amount
realized and the participant's basis in the restricted stock, assuming the
restricted stock is held as a capital asset.
Unless an election under Code Section 83(b) is made, dividends paid to a
participant while the restricted stock remains subject to restrictions are
treated as compensation for federal income tax purposes. Any dividends paid on
the restricted stock subsequent to a Code Section 83(b) election are treated as
dividend income, rather than compensation, for federal income tax purposes.
New Plan Benefits
The grant of awards under the Plan is within the discretion of the
committee administering the Plan or the Board of Directors. Accordingly, the
dollar value or number of options or other awards that will be received or
allocated to any participant under the Plan cannot be determined.
No person is currently expected to receive five percent or more of the
total number of options available for grant under the Plan and AMCOL is not
aware that any associate of any executive officer or director has received
options under the Plan. Because the grant of options under the Plan is
discretionary, the persons and groups listed below may receive additional
options under the Plan. Pursuant to the terms of the plan, no person may receive
in any calendar year options to purchase more than 100,000 shares of common
stock. The amount of options received by the named executive officers under the
Plan can be found on page 19 of this proxy statement. All current executive
officers, as a group, received 633,445 options under the Plan. All current
directors who are not executive officers, as a group, received 402,126 options
under the Plan. All current employees who are not executive officers, as a
group, received 780,208 options under the Plan.
The Amendments
In order to implement the amendments, the Plan is proposed to be amended as
set forth below.
1. Section 3 of the Plan shall be amended to read as follows:
3. Stock Subject to the Plan.
Except as otherwise provided in Section 12, the aggregate number
of shares of Common Stock with respect to which Awards may be granted
through this Plan may not exceed 2,900,000 shares. If any Awards shall
terminate or expire as to any number of shares, new Awards may
thereafter be awarded with respect to such shares. The aggregate
number of shares of Common Stock with respect to which Awards may be
granted to any Participant in any calendar year may not exceed 100,000
shares.
2. Section 12 of the Plan shall be amended to read as follows:
12. Adjustments.
(a) If there is any change in the corporate structure or shares
of the Company, the Committee may make any adjustments necessary to
prevent accretion, or to protect against dilution, in the number and
kind of shares of Common Stock with respect to which Awards may be
granted under this Plan (including the maximum number of shares of
Common Stock with respect to which Awards may be granted under this
Plan in the aggregate and individually to any Participant during any
calendar year as specified in Section 3) and, with respect to
outstanding Awards, in the number and kind of shares covered thereby
and in the applicable Option Price. For the purpose of this Section
12, a change in the corporate structure or shares of the Company
includes, without limitation, any change resulting from a
recapitalization, stock split, stock dividend, consolidation, rights
offering, separation, reorganization, or liquidation and any
transaction in which shares of Common Stock are changed into or
exchanged for a different number or kind of shares of stock or other
securities of the Company or another corporation.
(b) In the event of an extraordinary dividend or other
distribution, merger, reorganization, consolidation, combination, sale
of assets, split up, exchange, or spin off, or other extraordinary
corporate transaction, the Committee may, in such manner and to such
extent (if any) as it deems appropriate and equitable make provision
for a cash payment or for the substitution or exchange of any or all
outstanding Awards or the cash, securities or property deliverable to
the holder of any or all outstanding Awards based upon the
distribution or consideration payable to holders of Common Stock upon
or in respect of such event; provided, however, in each case, that
with respect to any ISO no such adjustment may be made that would
cause the Plan to violate Section 422 of the Code (or any successor
provision).
Proxies will be voted for or against approval of the amendments to the Plan
in accordance with the specifications marked thereon, and will be voted in favor
of approval if no specification is made. Assuming a quorum is present, the
affirmative vote of a majority of the shares of common stock represented in
person or by proxy at the special meeting and entitled to vote thereon is
required to adopt the amendments.
The Board of Directors recommends that AMCOL's shareholders vote "FOR"
approval of the amendments to AMCOL's 1998 Long-Term Incentive Plan.
SECURITY OWNERSHIP
Security Ownership of Five Percent Beneficial Owners
The following table sets forth all persons known to be the beneficial owner
of more than 5 percent of AMCOL's common stock as of February 19, 2001.
Number of Shares and
Name and Address of Beneficial Owner Nature of Beneficial Percent
Ownership (1) of Class
Bank of Montreal 3,101,751 (2) 10.72%
Paul Bechtner Trust
111 West Monroe Street
Chicago, Illinois 60690
John Hughes 1,645,892 (4) 5.31%
c/o AMCOL International Corporation
1500 West Shure Drive, Suite 500
Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004-7803
Everett P. Weaver 3,116,751 (3)(5) 10.78%
c/o AMCOL International Corporation
1500 West Shure Drive, Suite 500
Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004-7803
William D. Weaver 4,137,052 (3)(6) 14.30%
c/o AMCOL International Corporation
1500 West Shure Drive, Suite 500
Arlington Heights, Illinois 60004-7803
<FN>
(1) Nature of beneficial ownership is direct unless otherwise indicated by
footnote. Beneficial ownership as shown in the table arises from sole
voting and investment power unless otherwise indicated by footnote.
(2) Voting and investment power are shared by the trustees of this trust. See
note (3) below.
(3) Includes 3,101,751 shares held in the Paul Bechtner Trust as to which
Messrs. Everett P. Weaver, William D. Weaver and the Bank of Montreal are
co-trustees and share voting and investment power.
(4) Includes 632,684 options exercisable in 60 days, 192,414 shares held in a
revocable trust and 135,711 shares in a family limited partnership as to
which Mr. Hughes exercises sole voting and investment power. Also includes
55,838 shares held in his wife's revocable trust as to which Mr. Hughes may
be deemed to share voting and investment power. Also includes 217,500
shares held by the AMCOL International Corporation Pension Plan as to which
Mr. Hughes shares voting and investment power with Mr. Washow and Mr.
Shelton.
(5) Includes 15,000 shares in a trust as to which voting and investment power
are shared with Mr. Weaver's wife.
(6) Includes 436,941 shares held in a living trust, 200,000 shares in a family
charitable trust and 56,800 shares in a charitable remainder unit trust as
to which Mr. Weaver exercises sole voting and investment power. Also
includes 225,000 shares held in his wife's living trust, 45,000 shares held
by his wife as trustee for the benefit of her brother, and 71,560 shares
held by his wife for the benefit of their grandchildren as to which Mr.
Weaver may be deemed to share voting and investment power.
</FN>
Security Ownership of Directors and Executive Officers
The following table sets forth, as of February 19, 2001, shares
beneficially owned by: (i) each director and nominee; (ii) the Chief Executive
Officer; (iii) the named officers set forth on pages 17 and 18; and (iv) as a
group, such persons and other executive officers.
Beneficial Owner Number of Shares and Nature Percent of Class
of Beneficial Ownership (1)
Arthur Brown 60,397 *
Robert E. Driscoll, III 390,053 1.26%
John Hughes 1,645,892 5.31%
Jay D. Proops 102,298 *
C. Eugene Ray 138,397 *
Clarence O. Redman 219,398 *
Dale E. Stahl 87,798 *
Lawrence E. Washow 886,686 2.86%
Audrey L. Weaver 669,023 2.16%
Paul C. Weaver 406,475 1.31%
Gary L. Castagna -- *
Ryan McKendrick 188,582 *
Gary Morrison 174,281 *
Paul G. Shelton 649,873 2.10%
Frank B. Wright, Jr. 89,218 *
All of the above and other executive officers as a group (17 5,406,258 17.45%
persons)
<FN>
* Percentage represents less than 1% of the total shares of common stock outstanding as of February 19, 2001.
(1) Nature of beneficial ownership is set forth on Page 9.
</FN>
Nature of Beneficial Ownership (Shares Held) as of February 19, 2001
As Trustee
Directly or In the In As By of the Subject to
Beneficial Owner as Joint Company's Limited Trustee or As Family Company's Options
Tenants (1) Savings Partnership Co-Trustee Custodian Members Pension Plan Exercisable
Plan (2) (3) (4) in 60 Days
Arthur Brown 23,400 -- -- -- -- -- -- 36,997
Robert E. Driscoll, III 5,000 -- 371,295 4,000 -- -- -- 9,758
John Hughes 306,930 104,815 135,711 192,414 -- 55,838 217,500 632,684
Jay D. Proops 24,000 -- 10,000 -- -- -- -- 68,298
C. Eugene Ray 81,150 -- -- -- -- 20,250 -- 36,997
Clarence O. Redman 159,760 55,136 -- -- -- -- -- 4,592
Dale E. Stahl 19,500 -- -- -- -- -- -- 68,298
Lawrence E. Washow 167,059 13,626 -- -- 6,250 6,250 217,500 476,001
Audrey L. Weaver 650,070 -- -- -- -- 9,195 -- 9,758
Paul C. Weaver 318,876 -- -- 30,638 -- 31,706 -- 25,255
Gary L. Castagna -- -- -- -- -- -- -- --
Ryan F. McKendrick 2,298 21,369 -- -- -- -- -- 164,915
Gary D. Morrison 5,466 11,045 -- -- -- -- -- 157,770
Paul G. Shelton 180,783 22,361 -- -- 17,727 1,150 217,500 210,352
Frank B. Wright, Jr. 11,387 18,527 -- -- -- -- -- 59,304
All Directors and Executive
Officers 1,973,182 246,987 517,006 227,052 29,647 132,339 217,500 2,062,546
<FN>
(1) Includes shares held in joint tenancy with spouses for which voting rights may be shared.
(2) With the exception of Mr. Redman's shares, which are held in the Clarence O. Redman PC Savings Plan, the shares are held
in AMCOL's Savings Plan.
(3) The named director is a general partner.
(4) Messrs. Hughes, Shelton and Washow share voting rights.
</FN>
NAMED OFFICERS' COMPENSATION
Summary Compensation Table
The Summary Compensation Table below includes, for each of the fiscal years
ended December 31, 2000, 1999 and 1998, individual compensation for services to
AMCOL and its subsidiaries of those persons who were at December 31, 2000: (i)
the Chief Executive Officer; (ii) the four other most highly compensated
executive officers of AMCOL; (iii) an individual who served as Chief Executive
Officer during the last fiscal year; and (iv) an individual for whom disclosure
would have been required but for the fact that the individual was not serving as
an executive officer at the end of the last fiscal year or collectively, the
named officers.
Long-Term
Annual Compensation (1)(2) Compensation Awards
Securities All Other
Bonus Underlying Compen-sation
Name and Principal Position Year Salary ($) ($)(3) Bonus ($)(4) Options (#)(5) ($)(6)
John Hughes 2000 207,604 -- 950,000 2,000 37,995
Chairman of the Board. Chief 1999 475,000 712,500 -- 143,478 41,146
Executive Officer until May 2000. 1998 450,000 257,792 -- 143,478 19,386
Lawrence E. Washow 2000 375,000 -- 700,000 21,500 39,139
President and Chief 1999 350,000 437,500 -- 121,956 31,280
Executive Officer since May 2000. 1998 316,667 137,600 -- 107,609 16,578
Paul G. Shelton (7) 2000 275,000 -- 550,000 15,000 36,380
Senior Vice President 1999 275,000 258,090 -- 97,565 21,656
and Chief Financial Officer 1998 240,000 92,800 -- 71,739 13,694
of AMCOL and President
of Ameri-Co Carriers, Inc.
and Nationwide Freight
Service, Inc.
Frank B. Wright, Jr. 2000 215,000 20,000 -- 12,000 10,708
Vice President of AMCOL 1999 215,000 112,698 -- 64,565 15,840
and President of Volclay 1998 195,000 101,010 -- 37,017 10,600
International Corporation
Gary Morrison 2000 170,000 136,000 -- 12,000 16,705
Vice President of AMCOL 1999 148,200 111,619 -- 35,009 9,155
and President of American 1998 127,320 80,665 -- 27,261 7,182
Colloid Company
Ryan F. McKendrick 2000 184,000 119,598 -- 12,000 12,941
Vice President of AMCOL 1999 175,000 56,731 -- 53,948 9,404
and President of CETCO 1998 145,600 23,296 -- 34,435 6,366
Summary Compensation Table (continued)
Long-Term
Annual Compensation (1)(2) Compensation Awards
Securities All Other
Bonus Underlying Compen-sation
Name and Principal Position Year Salary ($) ($)(3) Bonus ($)(4) Options (#)(5) ($)(6)
Gary L. Castagna (8) 2000 91,667 73,333 300,000 -- 20,145
Senior Vice President of 1999 200,000 200,000 -- 64,565 18,571
AMCOL and former President 1998 160,000 109,874 -- 37,017 8,599
of Chemdal International
Corporation from August 1997 until
May 2000
<FN>
(1) Includes deferred compensation under AMCOL's Savings Plan and AMCOL's
Deferred Compensation Plan.
(2) The incremental cost of non-cash compensation and other personal benefits
during any year presented did not exceed the lesser of $50,000 or 10
percent of the total of annual salary and bonus reported for any individual
named above.
(3) The figures in this column reflect bonuses from the Executive Incentive
Compensation Plan and the Bonus Plan as described in the Board Compensation
Committee Report on Executive Compensation.
(4) The Compensation Committee granted bonuses to certain executives in
recognition of their contribution to the development and success of the
absorbent polymers business that was sold to BASF AG in June 2000.
(5) The number of options granted in 1999 and 1998 has been adjusted to reflect
the effect of the partial liquidation on unexercised stock options
(6) The figures in this column include Company matching contributions under
AMCOL's Savings Plan and the 401(k) restoration plan whereby the matching
contributions for salary deferrals in excess of ERISA limits to AMCOL's
Savings Plan were credited to AMCOL's Deferred Compensation Plan.
(7) Mr. Shelton has announced his retirement effective April 15, 2001 as Chief
Financial Officer and President of the transportation companies. He will
continue as a Senior Consultant to the Company.
(8) Mr. Castagna will become Chief Financial Officer upon Mr. Shelton's
retirement. He left AMCOL in July, 2000 in connection with the sale of the
absorbent polymer business.
</FN>
Option Grants in Last Fiscal Year
Shown below is information on grants of incentive stock options during the
fiscal year ended December 31, 2000, to the named officers, which are reflected
in the Summary Compensation Table on Page 17.
Grant
Date
Name Individual Grants in 2000 Value
Number of
Securities % of Total Grant
Underlying Options Date
Options Granted to Exercise Expiration Present
Granted (1) Employees (2) Price (3) Date Value (4)
John Hughes 2,000 .73% $3.875 07/17/10 $4,126
44,352
Lawrence E. Washow 21,500 7.89 3.875 07/17/10
15,000 30,943
Paul G. Shelton 5.50 3.875 07/17/10
12,000 3.875
Frank B. Wright, Jr. 4.40 07/17/10 24,755
Gary D. Morrison 12,000 4.40 3.875 07/17/10
24,755
Ryan F. McKendrick 12,000 4.40 3.875 07/17/10
24,755
Gary L. Castagna -- -- -- -- --
<FN>
(1) These Incentive Stock Options ("ISOs") were issued pursuant to AMCOL's 1998
Long-Term Incentive Plan (the "1998 Plan") and may not be exercised until
they vest. These ISOs vest 40% after two years, 60% after three years, 80%
after four years and 100% after five years, provided that on death or
retirement under specified conditions, these ISOs become fully vested. The
exercise price may not be less than the fair market value of the shares
subject to the option on the date of grant. The exercise price may not be
less than 110% of such fair market value if the purchaser is a holder of
more than 10% of AMCOL's outstanding voting securities.
(2) Based on 272,500 options granted to all employees.
(3) Fair market value on the date of grant.
(4) The estimated grant date present value reflected in the above table is
determined using the Black-Scholes model. The material assumptions and
adjustments incorporated in the Black-Scholes model in estimating the value
of the options reflected in the above table include the following: an
exercise price on the option of $3.875, equal to the fair market value of
the underlying stock on the date of grant; an option term of 6.7 years; an
interest rate of 6.41% representing the interest rates on U.S. Treasury
securities on the date of grant with maturity dates corresponding to the
vesting of the options; volatility of 50.41%; and dividends at the rate of
$0.04 per share representing the annualized dividends paid with respect to
a share of common stock at the date of grant. There have been no reductions
to reflect the probability of forfeiture due to termination prior to
vesting, or to reflect the probability of a shortened option term due to
termination of employment prior to the option expiration date. The ultimate
values of the options will depend on the future market price of AMCOL's
stock, which cannot be forecast with reasonable accuracy. The actual value,
if any, an optionee will realize upon exercise of an option will depend on
the excess of the market value of AMCOL's common stock over the exercise
price on the date the option is exercised.
</FN>
Option Exercises in Last Fiscal Year and Fiscal Year-End Option Values
Shown below is information with respect to (i) options exercised by the
named officers pursuant to AMCOL's option plans during fiscal 2000 and (ii)
unexercised options granted in fiscal 2000 and prior years under AMCOL's option
plans to the named officers and held by them at December 31, 2000.
Number of Securities Value of Unexercised
Shares Underlying Unexercised In-the-Money Options at
Name Acquired Value Options at 12/31/00 12/31/00
on Realized Exercisable/ Exercisable/
Exercise Unexercisable Unexercisable (1)
John Hughes 498,676 $1,528,991 495,632 / 311,797 $1,418,754 / $891,969
Lawrence E. Washow 92,416 762,308 390,546 / 253,725 1,042,331 / 696,743
Paul G. Shelton 124,698 978,204 131,491 / 195,734 357,360 / 540,435
Frank B. Wright, Jr. 15,617 89,991 8,609 / 145,698 27,392 / 398,119
Gary D. Morrison 5,400 62,624 125,574 / 83,422 380,378 / 217,590
Ryan F. McKendrick -- -- 116,821 / 127,327 342,303 / 339,344
Gary L. Castagna 79,226 469,394 -- / -- -- / --
<FN>
(1) Based on the closing sale price as quoted on The New York Stock Exchange on that date.
</FN>
Pension Plans
Remuneration Estimated Annual Retirement Benefits Based on Years of Service
15 Years 20 Years 25 Years 30 Years 35 Years 40 Years
$150,000 $33,750 $45,000 $56,250 $67,500 $78,750 $84,375
200,000 45,000 60,000 75,000 90,000 105,000 112,500
250,000 56,250 75,000 93,750 112,500 131,250 140,625
300,000 67,500 90,000 112,500 135,000 157,500 168,750
350,000 78,750 105,000 131,250 157,500 183,750 196,875
400,000 90,000 120,000 150,000 180,000 210,000 225,000
450,000 101,250 135,000 168,750 202,500 236,250 253,125
500,000 112,500 150,000 187,500 225,000 262,500 281,250
550,000 123,750 165,000 206,250 247,500 288,750 309,375
The above table shows the estimated annual retirement benefits payable on a
straight life annuity basis to participating employees, including officers, in
the earnings and years of service classifications indicated under AMCOL's
retirement plans, which cover substantially all of its domestic employees on a
non-contributory basis. The estimated benefits as disclosed on page 21 assume
(i) that the plans will be continued and (ii) that the employee will elect to
receive his pension at normal retirement age. The table above and the estimates
on page 21 do not reflect the reduction in an individual's final monthly
compensation due to social security monthly covered compensation. This reduction
is based upon the retirement year for a particular individual.
Name Years of Average Pension
Service Compensation Benefit
John Hughes 36 $710,632 $353,253
Lawrence E. Washow 22 530,107 165,788
Paul G. Shelton 19 446,269 122,760
Frank B. Wright, Jr. 5 245,330 18,339
Gary D. Morrison 20 213,932 54,512
Ryan F. McKendrick 17 201,527 47,274
Gary L. Castagna -- 307,755 --
The above table indicates the average earnings for the highest five
consecutive calendar years and the number of years of credited service under the
pension plans as of December 31, 2000, for each of the named officers. Covered
compensation includes a participant's base salary, commissions, bonuses and
salary reductions under AMCOL's Savings Plan and Deferred Compensation Plan. Mr.
Castagna has already received his full pension payout in the form of a lump-sum
payment during 2000 in connection with the sale of the absorbent polymers
business, of which he was president.
Sections 401(a)(17) and 415 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended, limit the annual benefits that may be paid from a tax-qualified
retirement plan. As permitted by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of
1974, AMCOL has a supplemental plan that authorizes the payment out of general
funds of AMCOL any benefits calculated under provisions of AMCOL's pension plan
that may be above the limits under these sections. The accrued, unfunded
liability of the supplemental plan at September 30, 2000, was $1,466,911.
Change In Control Arrangements
Each of the named officers, with the exception of Messrs. Hughes, Shelton
and Castagna, has an agreement with AMCOL which provides that, upon a change in
control of AMCOL, each of them is to be employed by AMCOL for a period of time
after the change in control (three years in the case of Mr. Washow and two years
for Messrs. Wright, Morrison and McKendrick), unless there is just cause for his
termination. A change in control is defined as a change in legal or beneficial
ownership of 51% of AMCOL's common stock within a six-month period, or the sale
of 90% or more of AMCOL's assets. Mr. Hughes' change in control agreement was
cancelled as a result of his retirement as Chief Executive Officer. Mr.
Shelton's agreement was cancelled with his pending retirement as Chief Financial
Officer. Mr. Castagna's agreement lapsed with the sale of the absorbent polymers
business.
If termination occurs within the specified period for other than just
cause, through either actual termination or constructive termination, the named
officer will receive compensation equal to his current annual salary plus an
average of his incentive bonus payments for prior periods. These payments may
not exceed an amount equal to two times, in the case of Messrs. Wright, Morrison
and McKendrick, and three times, in the case of Mr. Washow, of the respective
named officer's average annual compensation during the prior five calendar
years, subject to overall limits of the Internal Revenue Service. Each named
officer will also receive continued medical, health and disability benefits for
one year after termination.
Board Committee Membership Roster and Meetings
Name Audit Compensation Executive Nominating
Arthur Brown X* X
Robert E. Driscoll III X X
John Hughes X X
Jay D. Proops X* X X
C. Eugene Ray X X X* X*
Clarence O. Redman X X
Dale E. Stahl X X X X
Lawrence E. Washow X
Audrey L. Weaver X
Paul C. Weaver X X
Number of Meetings in 2000 3 7 0 0
<FN>
* Chairperson.
</FN>
The Board of Directors held thirteen meetings during the 2000 fiscal year.
During the last year, all Directors attended at least 75% of the aggregate of
the total number of meetings of the Board of Directors and the total number of
meetings held by each committee of the Board on which such Directors served. The
mandatory retirement age for directors is 70.
The Audit Committee, comprised of independent, non-employee directors, is
responsible for reviewing the proposed audit program for each fiscal year, the
results of the audits and the adequacy of AMCOL's systems of internal accounting
control with AMCOL's financial management and its independent auditors. The
Committee recommends to the Board of Directors the appointment of the
independent auditors for each fiscal year. The Audit Committee charter is
attached to this Proxy Statement.
The Compensation Committee, comprised of non-employee directors, is
responsible for annually reviewing the salaries and bonuses of all executive
officers, and oversees AMCOL's compensation, incentive and employee benefit
programs. This Committee is also responsible for the selection of those
officers, directors and key employees who are eligible to receive stock options,
determines the number of options to be awarded and the period during which
options may be exercised under AMCOL's various option plans. Clarence O. Redman
is a member of AMCOL's Compensation Committee and, as such, participated in
discussions where the compensation awarded to each of the Named Officers was
decided. Mr. Redman is of counsel to Lord, Bissell & Brook, the principal law
firm engaged by AMCOL.
The Nominating Committee is responsible for recommending to the Board of
Directors, at the request of the Board of Directors, nominees who are deemed by
the Committee to be qualified for Board of Directors' membership. The Nominating
Committee will not consider nominees recommended by shareholders of AMCOL.
Director Compensation
Type of Compensation Cash Stock Options
Annual Retainer $14,700 2,000 shares
Board Meeting Attendance Fee $1,470
Annual Retainer for Committee Chairman $1,969
Committee Meeting Attendance Fee $525
Directors who are also full-time employees of AMCOL are not paid for their
services as directors or for attendance at meetings.
Pursuant to the 1998 Long-Term Incentive Plan, each of the non-employee
directors was granted 2,000 options at $3.875 per share in 2000.
Compensation Committee Report on Executive Compensation
AMCOL's mission is to supply high-quality performance products and
innovative technologies for mineral and environmental markets worldwide. To
accomplish this objective, AMCOL has developed comprehensive compensation
strategies that emphasize maximizing shareholder value and growth in sales and
earnings. The compensation program has been designed to reinforce and support
AMCOL's business goals and to help the organization both attract and retain high
quality executive talent.
The Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors is comprised of seven
non-employee directors whose objectives are to approve the design, assess the
effectiveness of and administer compensation programs in support of the
compensation policies. The Compensation Committee also evaluates executive
performance and reviews and approves all salary arrangements and other
remuneration for the officer group.
Compensation Committee Philosophy
The Compensation Committee is committed to implementing and administering a
compensation program that supports and underscores AMCOL's mission and values.
The policies underlying the Compensation Committee's compensation decisions are
enumerated more fully below:
Compensation opportunities should strengthen AMCOL's ability to attract,
retain, and encourage the growth and development of the highest caliber
executive talent upon whose efforts the success of AMCOL largely depends.
A substantial portion of pay for senior executives should be comprised of
at-risk, variable compensation whose payout is dependent on the achievement
of specific corporate and individual performance objectives. In addition,
the at-risk components of pay will have a significant equity-based element
to ensure appropriate linkage between executive behavior and shareholder
interests.
The committee considers stock ownership by management to be an important
means of linking management's interests with those of shareholders.
Effective February 1999, AMCOL adopted stock ownership guidelines for its
corporate and subsidiary officers. The amount of stock required to be owned
increases with the level of responsibility of each executive, with the
Chief Executive Officer expected to own stock with a value at least equal
to four times base salary. Shares that the executives have the right to
acquire through the exercise of stock options are not included in the
calculation of stock ownership for purposes of these guidelines. Executives
are expected to reach their respective stock ownership goals over a
three-year period.
Each compensation component targets pay opportunities at the median of
compensation paid to executives included in AMCOL's comparative
compensation peer group. AMCOL's comparative compensation group is not the
same as the companies that make up the peer group in the stock price
performance graph included in this proxy statement. In order to provide an
appropriate basis for compensation analysis, a group larger than the stock
price graph's peer group was used; note, however, that a significant number
of the peer group companies are included in the comparative compensation
group.
Components of Compensation
AMCOL's total compensation program consists of several components, each of
which plays a role in supporting overall business goals and pay philosophy. In
assessing the competitiveness of AMCOL's senior executive compensation programs,
available salary data consisting of general manufacturing companies is used for
comparison purposes. Pay decisions are based upon pay data for comparable
positions. The total compensation program consists of base salary, annual
incentives and long-term incentives.
Base Pay
Base salary targets are set at median levels (50th percentile) relative to
competitive market levels for comparable positions based upon available survey
data from AMCOL's comparative compensation group. The Compensation Committee
annually reviews each executive's base salary and makes adjustments based upon
levels of responsibility, breadth of knowledge, internal equity issues, as well
as market pay practices. Salary adjustments are based primarily upon individual
performance, which is evaluated based on individual contributions to AMCOL.
Lawrence E. Washow, President and Chief Operating Officer, was elected
President and Chief Executive Officer of AMCOL on May 11, 2000, succeeding John
Hughes as Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Washow's base salary was increased to
$375,000, an increase of $25,000.
In arriving at Mr. Washow's base salary, the Compensation Committee
considered his individual performance and his long-term contributions to the
financial success of AMCOL. The Committee also compared Mr. Washow's base salary
with the base salaries of chief executive officers from appropriate salary
surveys.
Annual Incentives
The Executive Incentive Compensation Plan, or the incentive plan,
underscores AMCOL's pay-for-performance philosophy by rewarding executives for
meaningful contributions toward predetermined financial performance goals. The
annual incentive opportunity for the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial
Officer is based upon performance of AMCOL, as a whole, compared to targets for
return on capital and earnings per share. These executives do not receive
bonuses until AMCOL achieves a return on capital and earnings per share, which
the committee deems appropriate. In the case of the other executives, their
bonus is determined pursuant to formulas tailored for each business segment with
an emphasis on the return on capital and earnings of the particular business
segment to which the executive devotes the majority of his time. Mr. Washow, as
Chief Executive Officer, was not paid a bonus for the 2000 financial performance
of AMCOL. The incentive plan calculations for the year 2000 exclude the impact
of the sale of the superabsorbent business during this year.
In connection with the sale of AMCOL's absorbent polymers business, the
Compensation Committee granted bonuses to certain of AMCOL's employees in
recognition of their contribution to the development and success of the
absorbent polymers business. These bonuses were paid upon the closing of the
sale of the absorbent polymers business. John Hughes, former Chief Executive
Officer, was granted a bonus of $950,000 and Lawrence E. Washow, current
President and Chief Executive Officer, was granted $700,000. In addition, the
following executive officers were also granted a bonus in connection with the
sale of the absorbent polymers business: Paul G. Shelton, Senior Vice-President
and Chief Financial Officer, and Gary L. Castagna, Senior Vice President of
AMCOL and President of Chemdal International Corporation. In addition, seven key
employees of the absorbent polymers business were granted bonuses.
Limitations on Payments
Code Section 162(m) denies a deduction to any publicly held corporation for
compensation paid to certain "covered employees" in a taxable year to the extent
that such compensation exceeds $1,000,000. "Covered employees" are a
corporation's chief executive officer on the last day of the taxable year and
any other individuals whose compensation is required to be reported to
shareholders under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 by reason of being among
the four most highly compensated officers (other than the chief executive
officer) for the taxable year and who are employed on the last day of the
taxable year. Compensation paid under some qualified performance-based
compensation arrangements, which (among other things) provide for compensation
based on pre-established performance goals established by a compensation
committee that is composed solely of two or more "outside directors," is not
considered in determining whether a "covered employee's" compensation exceeds
$1,000,000. To the extent that any bonus payments cause the executive's total
compensation to exceed $1,000,000 in any given year, the excess will be deferred
until a year when such amount can be deducted by the Company.
Long-Term Incentives
Long-term incentives are provided annually in the form of incentive stock
options (ISOs). Options under AMCOL's 1998 Long-Term Incentive Plan are granted
by the Compensation Committee. ISOs are granted at a price not less than the
fair market value of the common stock on the date of grant. Hence, the options
will only have value when and if the stock price appreciates above the grant
date price. ISOs are the only long-term incentive compensation vehicle currently
used by AMCOL.
The option program serves to focus executives on long-term shareholder
value creation and foster an ownership mentality among the executive management
team. In keeping with AMCOL's commitment to provide a total compensation package
that focuses on at-risk pay components, long-term incentives will continue to
comprise a large portion of the value of an executive's total compensation
package. Currently, approximately 10 to 15 percent of the value of total
compensation is comprised of equity incentives.
When determining award sizes, the Compensation Committee considers the
executive's responsibility level, prior experience, historical award data and
ability to positively impact long-term shareholder value. The Compensation
Committee also strives to deliver market competitive long-term incentive award
opportunities to executives based on the dollar value of the award delivered.
In 2000, the Chief Executive Officer received options to purchase 21,500
shares with an exercise price of $3.875, as provided in the Option Grant Table
on Page 19. The Compensation Committee believes the equity incentive program
provides a strong link between management behavior and shareholder interests.
Compensation Committee
Jay D. Proops, Chairman
Arthur Brown
Robert E. Driscoll, III
C. Eugene Ray
Clarence O. Redman
Dale E. Stahl
Audrey L. Weaver
Report of the Audit Committee
The Audit Committee of AMCOL consists of four independent (as defined by
the rules of the New York Stock Exchange) directors and operates under a written
charter approved by the Audit Committee and adopted by the Board of Directors.
The charter is attached to this Proxy Statement. The members of the committee
are Arthur Brown, Chairman, Robert E. Driscoll, III, C. Eugene Ray and Dale E.
Stahl. The Audit Committee recommends the selection of the Company's independent
accountants to the Board of Directors.
Management is responsible for the Company's internal controls and the
financial reporting process. The independent accountants are responsible for
performing an independent audit of the Company's consolidated financial
statements in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards and for
issuing a report thereon. The Audit Committee's responsibility is to monitor and
oversee these processes.
Review with Management
The Audit Committee has reviewed and discussed the Company's audited
financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2000 with management.
Review and Discussions with Independent Accountants
The Audit Committee has discussed with KPMG LLP, the Company's independent
accountants, the matters required to be discussed by Statement on Auditing
Standards No. 61, "Communication with Audit Committees", which include, among
other items, matters related to the conduct of the audit of the Company's
financial statements.
The Audit Committee has also received the written disclosures from KPMG LLP
required by Independence Standards Board Standard No. 1, which relates to the
accountants' independence from the Company and its related entities, and has
discussed with KPMG LLP their independence from the Company.
Conclusion
Based on the review and discussions referred to above, the Audit Committee
recommended to the Company's Board of Directors that the Company's audited
financial statements be included in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for
the year ended December 31, 2000 filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission.
Audit Committee
Arthur Brown, Chairman
Robert E. Driscoll, III
C. Eugene Ray
Dale E. Stahl
INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
The firm of KPMG LLP served as AMCOL's independent auditors for the fiscal
year ended December 31, 2000. As of the date of this proxy statement, no
accountant has been recommended by the Audit Committee or selected by the Board
of Directors for AMCOL's fiscal year ending December 31, 2001, and therefore no
accountant will be recommended to the shareholders for ratification at the
annual meeting. The Audit Committee intends to recommend independent accountants
for fiscal year 2001 for selection by the Board of Directors.
During fiscal year 2000, AMCOL retained KPMG LLP to audit AMCOL's
consolidated financial statements and benefit plans and to perform certain other
auditing and tax services. Fees paid to KPMG LLP for these services were as
follows:
Financial statement audit and quarterly review fees $ 161,282
All other fees $1,047,892 (a)
(a) Other fees include amounts related to tax consultation in connection
with various transactions, statutory audits of certain non-U.S.
subsidiaries, audits of the financial statements of AMCOL's benefit
plans, special purpose reports related to the sale of the absorbent
polymers business and the Form 10 filing of Nanocor, Inc. and other
services.
The Audit Committee has considered whether the provision of these non-audit
services by KPMG LLP is compatible with maintaining auditor independence.
A representative of KPMG LLP will be present at the annual meeting, will be
afforded the opportunity to make a statement, and will be available to respond
to appropriate questions.
Stock Performance Graph
The following graph sets forth a five-year comparison of cumulative total
returns for: (i) AMCOL (which trades on The New York Stock Exchange); (ii) S&P
SmallCap 600 Index; and (iii) a custom peer group of publicly traded companies,
or the peer group.
Using the assistance of consultants, AMCOL selected the peer group which
consists of companies whose businesses, sales sizes, market capitalization and
stock trading volumes were similar to that of AMCOL.
All returns were calculated assuming dividend reinvestment on a quarterly
basis. The returns of each company in the peer group have been weighted
according to market capitalization.
The peer group consists of the following companies: Calgon Carbon
Corporation, ChemFirst, Inc., Mississippi Chemical Corporation, Oil-Dri
Corporation of America and Zemex Corporation.
Comparison of Five-Year Cumulative Total Return (1)
AMCOL, S&P SmallCap 600 and Self-Determined Peer Group
[OBJECT OMITTED]
12/95 12/96 12/97 12/98 12/99 12/00
AMCOL International 100.0 112.7 173.1 109.8 182.9 211.01
S&P SmallCap 600 Index 100.0 121.3 152.3 150.3 168.9 188.76
Custom Peer Group * 100.0 97.6 94.6 71.0 60.1 49.15
*The peer group consists of the following companies: Calgon Carbon Corporation,
ChemFirst, Inc., Mississippi Chemical Corporation, Oil-Dri Corporation of
America, and Zemex Corporation. Lilly Industries Inc. and McWhorter Technologies
stock is no longer actively traded and therefore has been excluded.
(1) Assumes $100 invested on December 31, 1995, in AMCOL International
Corporation Common Stock, S&P SmallCap 600 and Self-Determined Peer Group.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
Clarence O. Redman is of counsel to Lord, Bissell & Brook, the principal
law firm engaged by AMCOL.
SECTION 16(a) BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP REPORTING COMPLIANCE
Under the securities laws of the United States, AMCOL's directors, its
executive officers and any persons holding more than 10% of AMCOL's common stock
are required to report their initial ownership of AMCOL's common stock and any
subsequent changes in that ownership to the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Specific due dates for these reports have been established and AMCOL is required
to disclose in this proxy statement if a director or executive officer filed a
late report. No late reports were filed. In making these disclosures, AMCOL has
relied solely on written representations of its directors and executive officers
and copies of the reports that they have filed with the Commission.
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS
Shareholder proposals intended to be included in AMCOL's proxy statement
and form of proxy relating to, and to be presented at, the annual meeting of
shareholders of AMCOL to be held in 2002, must be received by AMCOL on or before
December 12, 2001.
If a shareholder intends to present a proposal at the 2002 annual meeting
of shareholders but does not seek inclusion of that proposal in AMCOL's proxy
statement for that meeting, such shareholder must deliver written notice of the
proposal to AMCOL in accordance with the requirements of AMCOL's By-Laws.
Generally, such proposals must be delivered to AMCOL between February 10, 2002
and March 12, 2002. All proposals or notices should be directed to the Secretary
of AMCOL at One North Arlington, 1500 West Shure Drive, Suite 500, Arlington
Heights, Illinois, 60004-7803.
OTHER MATTERS
In addition to the business described above, there will be remarks by the
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer and a general discussion period during
which shareholders will have an opportunity to ask questions about AMCOL.
As of the date of this proxy statement, AMCOL's management knows of no
matter not specifically referred to above as to which any action is expected to
be taken at the annual meeting. It is intended, however, that the persons named
as proxies will vote the proxies, insofar as they are not otherwise instructed,
regarding such other matters and the transaction of such other business as may
be properly brought before the meeting, as seems to them to be in the best
interest of AMCOL and its shareholders.
By Order of the Board of Directors,
Clarence O. Redman
Secretary
Arlington Heights, Illinois
April 10, 2001
AMCOL INTERNATIONAL AUDIT COMMITTEE CHARTER
Organization
There shall be a committee of the board of directors, consisting of no less
than three members, to be known as the Audit Committee, whose members shall meet
the independence and experience requirements of the New York Stock Exchange. The
board of directors shall appoint the members.
Statement Of Policy
The Audit Committee shall provide assistance to the corporate directors in
fulfilling their oversight responsibility to the shareholders, potential
shareholders, investment community and any governmental body relating to (1) the
integrity of the financial statements of the Company, (2) the compliance by the
company with legal and regulatory requirements and (3) the independence and
performance of the Company's internal and external auditors. In so doing, it is
the responsibility of the Audit Committee to maintain free and open means of
communication between directors, the independent auditors, the internal
auditors, and the financial management of the Company.
Responsibilities
In carrying out its responsibilities, the Audit Committee shall have the
authority to retain special legal, accounting or other consultants to advise the
Committee. The Audit Committee may request any officer or employee of the
Company or the Company's outside counsel or independent auditor to attend a
meeting of the Committee or to meet with any members of, or consultants to, the
Committee.
The Committee believes its policies and procedures should remain flexible,
in order to best react to changing conditions and to ensure to the directors and
shareholders that the corporate accounting and reporting practices of the
corporation are in accordance with all requirements and are of the highest
quality.
In carrying out these responsibilities, the Audit Committee will:
1. Review and update this Charter periodically, at least annually, as
conditions dictate and recommend any proposed changes to the Board for
approval.
2. Meet with the independent auditors and financial management of the
corporation to review the scope of the proposed audit for the current
year and the audit procedures to be utilized.
3. Recommend to the Board the appointment of the independent auditor,
which firm is ultimately accountable to the Audit Committee and the
Board. Also, approve the fees to be paid to the independent auditor.
4. Review with management and the independent auditor significant
financial reporting issues and judgements made in connection with the
preparation of the Company's financial statements.
5. Review with the independent auditor any problems or difficulties the
auditor may have encountered in the course of the audit work and any
management letter provided by the auditor and the Company's response
to that letter. Such review should include:
(a) Any difficulties encountered in the course of the audit work,
including any restrictions on the scope of activities or access
to required information.
(b) Recommendations for changes in the planned scope of the internal
audit.
(c) Any comments the independent auditor may have regarding the
internal audit department responsibilities, budget and staffing.
6. Audit Committee chairman to review with management and the independent
auditor the Company's quarterly financial statements prior to the
release of quarterly earnings.
7. Receive periodic reports from the independent auditor regarding the
auditor's independence, discuss such reports with the auditor, and if
so determined by the Audit Committee, recommend that the Board take
appropriate action to satisfy itself of the independence of the
auditor.
8. Evaluate, together with the Board, the performance of the independent
auditor and, if so determined by the Audit Committee, recommend that
the Board replace the independent auditor.
9. Review with the independent auditor, the Company's internal auditor,
and financial and accounting personnel, the adequacy and effectiveness
of the accounting and financial controls of the Company.
10. Review major changes to the Company's auditing and accounting
principles and practices as suggested by the independent auditor,
internal auditor and management.
11. Review the internal audit function of the Company including the
independence and authority of its reporting obligations, the proposed
audit plans for the coming year, and the coordination of such plans
with the independent auditors.
12. Review the appointment and replacement of the senior internal auditing
executive.
13. Receive prior to each meeting, a summary of findings from the internal
audits and a progress report on the proposed internal audit plan, with
explanations for any deviations from the original plan.
14. Meet periodically with management to review the Company's major
financial risk exposures and the steps management has taken to monitor
and control such exposures.
15. Obtain reports from management, internal auditing and the independent
auditor that the Company's subsidiary/foreign affiliated entities are
in conformity with the Company's Code of Conduct.
16. Discuss with the independent auditor the matters required to be
discussed by Statement on Auditing Standards No. 61 relating to the
conduct of the audit.
17. Obtain confirmation from the independent auditor that there has been
no discussion with the Company's legal counsel regarding issues in
connection with Section 10A of the Private Securities Litigation
Reform Act of 1995.
18. Provide sufficient opportunity for the internal and independent
auditors to meet with the members of the Audit Committee without
members of management present.
19. Advise the Board with respect to compliance with the Company's Code of
Conduct.
20. Review, with the Company's counsel, any legal matter that could have
significant impact on the financial statements.
21. Submit the minutes of all meetings of the Audit Committee to, or
discuss the matters discussed at each committee meeting with, the
Board.
22. Prepare the report required by the rules of the Securities and
Exchange Commission to be included in the Company's annual proxy
statement.
23. Investigate any matter brought to its attention within the scope of
its duties, with the power to retain outside counsel for this purpose
if, in its judgement, that is appropriate.
24. Perform any other activities consistent with this Charter, as the
Committee or the Board deems necessary or appropriate.
While the Audit Committee has the responsibilities and powers set forth in
this Charter, it is not the duty of the Audit Committee to plan or conduct
audits or to determine that the Company's financial statements are complete and
accurate and are in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
This is the responsibility of management and the independent auditor. Nor is it
the duty of the Audit Committee to conduct investigations, to resolve
disagreements, if any, between management and the independent auditor or to
assure compliance with laws and regulations and the Company's Code of Conduct.
AMCOL INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION
Annual Meeting of Shareholders to be held on May 17, 2001
As a shareholder of AMCOL International Corporation (the "Company"), I
acknowledge receipt of Notice of Annual Meeting and accompanying Proxy Statement
and appoint John Hughes, Lawrence E. Washow and Paul C. Weaver, or any one of
them, to vote all shares of stock of AMCOL International Corporation that I am
entitled to vote, at the annual meeting of shareholders to be held on Thursday,
May 17, 2001, at 11:00 a.m., Central Daylight Savings Time, and at any
adjournment thereof, at Wyndham Hotel, 400 Park Boulevard, Itasca, Illinois,
60143.
1a. The election of Arthur Brown, Jay D. Proops, and Paul C. Weaver to
three-year terms as Class III directors.
FOR ALL NOMINEES EXCEPT WITHHOLD AUTHORITY TO
NOMINEES WRITTEN BY THE VOTE FOR ALL
UNDERSIGNED BELOW NOMINEES
__________________________________________________________________________
1b. The election of John Hughes and Lawrence E. Washow to one-year terms as
Class I directors.
FOR ALL NOMINEES EXCEPT WITHHOLD AUTHORITY TO
NOMINEES WRITTEN BY VOTE FOR ALL
THE UNDERSIGNED BELOW NOMINEES
__________________________________________________________________________
2. A proposal to approve certain amendments to AMCOL's 1998 Long-Term
Incentive Plan.
FOR AGAINST ABSTAIN
THIS PROXY SHALL BE VOTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE INSTRUCTIONS GIVEN, AND IN THE
ABSENCE OF SUCH INSTRUCTIONS, SHALL BE VOTED FOR ALL OF THE NOMINEES FOR
DIRECTOR NAMED IN ITEM 1 AND FOR ITEM 2. IF OTHER BUSINESS IS PRESENTED AT THE
MEETING, THIS PROXY SHALL BE VOTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE BEST JUDGMENT OF THE
PROXIES ON THOSE MATTERS.
This Proxy Is Solicited on Behalf of the Board of Directors
You are urged to mark, sign and return your proxy promptly in the enclosed
self-addressed, postage-paid (if mailed in the United States) envelope.
Dated ________________, 2001
_________________________________________
SIGNATURE OF SHAREHOLDER
_________________________________________
SIGNATURE OF SHAREHOLDER
When signing the proxy, please date it and take care to have
the signature agree to the shareholder's name as it appears
on this side of the proxy. If shares are registered in the
names of two or more persons, each person should sign.
Executors, administrators, trustees and guardians should so
indicate when signing.
CONTROL NUMBER
VOTE BY TELEPHONE
Call Toll Free On a Touch Tone Telephone
1-800-690-6903
There is NO CHARGE to you for this call.
The Board of Directors encourages you to use this inexpensive, time saving
method to vote.
Your telephone vote authorizes the named proxies to vote your shares in the same
manner as if you marked, signed and returned your proxy card.
You will be asked to enter a Control Number, which is located in the box on the
left side of this form.
Option 1: To vote as the Board of Directors recommends on ALL proposals,
press 1.
WHEN ASKED, PLEASE CONFIRM YOUR VOTE BY PRESSING 1-THANK YOU
FOR VOTING.
Option 2: If you choose to vote on each proposal separately, press 0.
You will hear these instructions:
Proposal 1: To vote FOR ALL nominees, press 1; To
WITHHOLD FOR ALL nominees, press 9; and
To WITHHOLD FOR AN INDIVIDUAL nominee,
press 0 and listen to the instructions.
Proposal 2: To vote FOR, press 1; AGAINST, press 9;
ABSTAIN, press 0
WHEN ASKED, PLEASE CONFIRM YOUR VOTE BY PRESSING 1-THANK YOU
FOR VOTING.
If you vote by telephone, DO NOT mail back your proxy.