1
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
F O R M 10 - Q
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended October 31, 1998
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Commission file no. 1-10299
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VENATOR GROUP, INC.
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(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
New York 13-3513936
- -------------------------------- ----------------------------------
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
incorporation or organization)
233 Broadway, New York, New York 10279-0003
- --------------------------------------- ----------
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number: (212)-553-2000
--------------
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
---- ----
Number of shares of Common Stock outstanding at November 27, 1998: 135,614,566
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VENATOR GROUP, INC.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Page No.
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Part I. Financial Information
Item 1. Financial Statements
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets.......................1
Condensed Consolidated Statements
of Operations............................................2
Condensed Consolidated Statements
of Comprehensive Income (Loss)...........................3
Condensed Consolidated Statements
of Retained Earnings.....................................4
Condensed Consolidated Statements
of Cash Flows............................................5
Notes to Condensed Consolidated
Financial Statements...................................6-9
Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations.........9-15
Part II. Other Information
Item 1. Legal Proceedings......................................16
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K.......................16
Signature..............................................17
Index to Exhibits...................................18-20
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PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
------------------------------
Item 1. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- ------- --------------------
VENATOR GROUP, INC.
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CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
-------------------------------------
(in millions)
October 31, October 25, January 31,
1998 1997 1998
---- ---- ----
(Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Audited)
ASSETS
------
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents ........... $ 147 $ 17 $ 81
Merchandise inventories ............. 1,112 886 754
Net assets of discontinued operations 220 597 619
Other current assets ................ 136 149 131
----- ----- -----
1,615 1,649 1,585
Property and equipment, net ............ 916 511 625
Deferred charges and other assets ...... 614 655 585
----- ----- -----
$3,145 $ 2,815 $ 2,795
===== ===== =====
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
------------------------------------
Current liabilities
Short-term debt ..................... $ 371 $ 21 $ --
Accounts payable and accrued
liabilities ...................... 652 490 507
Current portion of reserve for
discontinued operations .......... 217 128 72
Current portion of long-term debt
and obligations under capital
leases ......................... 20 13 19
---- ---- ----
1,260 652 598
Long-term debt and obligations
under capital leases ................ 508 510 508
Deferred taxes and other liabilities ... 345 432 400
Reserve for discontinued operations .... 30 67 18
Shareholders' Equity
Common stock and paid-in capital .... 327 315 317
Retained earnings ................... 860 925 1,033
Accumulated other comprehensive loss . (185) (86) (79)
----- ---- -----
Total shareholders' equity ............ 1,002 1,154 1,271
Commitments ............................
----- ----- -----
$ 3,145 $ 2,815 $ 2,795
===== ===== =====
See Accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
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VENATOR GROUP, INC.
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CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
-----------------------------------------------
(Unaudited)
(in millions, except per share amounts)
Thirteen weeks ended Thirty-nine weeks ended
-------------------- -----------------------
October 31, October 25, October 31, October 25,
1998 1997 1998 1997
---- ---- ---- ----
Sales......................... $ 1,122 $ 1,107 $ 3,223 $ 3,198
Costs and expenses
Cost of sales............... 840 741 2,324 2,167
Selling, general and
administrative expenses . 302 252 827 744
Depreciation and amortization 38 30 108 90
Interest expense, net....... 18 8 35 25
Other income................ - - (19) -
----- ----- ----- -----
1,198 1,031 3,275 3,026
----- ----- ----- -----
Income (loss) from continuing
operations before income
taxes ...................... (76) 76 (52) 172
Income tax expense (benefit) . (36) 26 (26) 65
Income (loss) from continuing ---- ---- ---- ----
operations ................. (40) 50 (26) 107
Income (loss) from discontinued
operations, net of income tax
expense (benefit) of $6, $5,
$(14) and $(26), respectively 6 5 (26) (37)
Net loss on disposal of
discontinued operations, net
of income tax expense (benefit)
of $52, $0, $52, and $(115),
respectively ............... (121) - (121) (195)
----- ----- ----- -----
Net income (loss) ............ $ (155) $ 55 $ (173) $ (125)
====== ===== ====== ======
Basic earnings per share:
Income (loss) from continuing
operations ............... $ (0.29) $ 0.37 $ (0.19) $ 0.80
Income (loss) from
discontinued operations .. (0.85) 0.04 (1.08) (1.73)
------ ---- ------ ------
Net income (loss) .......... $ (1.14) $ 0.41 $ (1.27) $ (0.93)
===== ===== ===== =====
Weighted-average common shares
outstanding .............. 135.6 134.9 135.4 134.5
Diluted earnings per share:
Income (loss) from continuing
operations ............. $ (0.29) $ 0.37 $ (0.19) $ 0.79
Income (loss) from discontinued
operations ............... (0.85) 0.03 (1.08) (1.71)
----- ----- ----- -----
Net income (loss) ....... $ (1.14) $ 0.40 $ (1.27) $ (0.92)
Weighted-average common shares ===== ===== ===== =====
assuming dilution .......... 135.6 136.3 135.4 135.8
See Accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
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VENATOR GROUP, INC.
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CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
----------------------------------------------------------------
(Unaudited)
(in millions)
Thirteen weeks ended Thirty-nine weeks ended
-------------------- -----------------------
October 31, October 25, October 31, October 25,
1998 1997 1998 1997
---- ---- ---- ----
Net income (loss)........... $ (155) $ 55 $ (173) $ (125)
Other comprehensive income
(loss), net of tax:
Foreign currency translation
adjustments:
Translation adjustments
arising during period
(pre-tax $(216), $10,
$(216), and $(114),
respectively)........... (108) 6 (108) (71)
Less: reclassification
adjustment for gains included
in net income (loss)
(pre-tax $298).......... 149 - 149 -
----- ----- ----- -----
41 6 41 (71)
Minimum pension liability
adjustments (pre-tax $4) 2 - 2 -
----- ----- ----- -----
Comprehensive income (loss). $ (112) $ 61 $ (130) $ (196)
===== ===== ===== =====
See Accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
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VENATOR GROUP, INC.
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CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF RETAINED EARNINGS
------------------------------------------------------
(Unaudited)
(in millions)
Thirty-nine weeks ended
-----------------------------
October 31, October 25,
1998 1997
---- ----
Retained earnings at beginning of year ... $ 1,033 $ 1,050
Net loss ................................. (173) (125)
----- -----
Retained earnings at end of interim period $ 860 $ 925
===== =====
See Accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
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VENATOR GROUP, INC.
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CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
-----------------------------------------------
(Unaudited)
(in millions)
Thirty-nine weeks ended
-----------------------
October 31, October 25,
1998 1997
---- ----
From Operating Activities:
Net loss ....................................... $ (173) $ (125)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash ..
provided by (used in) operating activities:
Non-cash charge for discontinued operations,
net of tax ................................. 121 195
Discontinued operations reserve activity . (127) (104)
Depreciation and amortization ............ 108 90
Net gain on sales of real estate ......... - (3)
Net gain on sales of assets and investments (19) -
Deferred income taxes .................... (38) (37)
Change in assets and liabilities, net of acquisition:
Merchandise inventories .................. (356) (238)
Accounts payable and other liabilities ... 146 29
Net assets of discontinued operations .... (56) 299
Other, net ............................... (15) (54)
Net cash provided by (used in) operating ---- ----
activities ............................... (409) 52
---- ----
From Investing Activities:
Net proceeds from businesses disposed ........ 495 -
Proceeds from sales of assets and investments 22 -
Proceeds from sales of real estate ........... - 3
Capital expenditures ......................... (395) (114)
Payments for businesses acquired, net of cash
acquired ................................... (29) (148)
Net cash provided by (used in) investing ---- ----
activities ................................. 93 (259)
---- ----
From Financing Activities:
Increase in short-term debt .................. 371 21
Reduction in long-term debt and capital lease
obligations ................................ (2) (2)
Issuance of common stock ..................... 10 16
---- ----
Net cash provided by financing activities .. 379 35
---- ----
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations
on Cash and Cash Equivalents ................. 3 (8)
---- ----
Net change in Cash and Cash Equivalents ......... 66 (180)
Cash and Cash Equivalents at beginning of year .. 81 197
---- ----
Cash and Cash Equivalents at end of interim period $ 147 $ 17
==== ====
Cash paid during the period:
Interest ..................................... $ 32 $ 21
Income taxes ................................. $ 14 $ 58
See Accompanying Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
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VENATOR GROUP, INC.
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NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
----------------------------------------------------
Basis of Presentation
- ---------------------
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements
should be read in conjunction with the Notes to Consolidated Financial
Statements contained in the Registrant's Form 10-K for the year ended January
31, 1998, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") on
April 21, 1998. The Condensed Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
(Loss) was prepared in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles
and was not required for the year ended January 31, 1998. Certain items included
in these statements are based on management's estimates. In the opinion of
management, all material adjustments, which are of a normal recurring nature,
necessary for a fair presentation of the results for the interim periods have
been included. The results for the thirty-nine weeks ended October 31, 1998 are
not necessarily indicative of the results expected for the year. All financial
statements have been restated to reflect the discontinuance of the Specialty
Footwear and International General Merchandise segments.
Name Change
- -----------
The Registrant changed its name to Venator Group, Inc. (formerly Woolworth
Corporation) effective June 11, 1998.
Discontinued Operations
- -----------------------
On September 22, 1998, the Registrant announced that it is exiting its
International General Merchandise segment. On October 22, 1998, the Registrant
completed the sale of its 357 store German general merchandise business for $563
million, pursuant to a definitive agreement. The Registrant recorded a net gain
on the disposal of the International General Merchandise segment of $174 million
before-tax, or $39 million after-tax, in the third quarter 1998. The disposition
of the International General Merchandise segment will be completed in 1999.
On September 16, 1998, the Registrant announced that it is exiting its
Specialty Footwear segment including 467 Kinney Shoe stores and 103 Footquarters
stores. The Registrant expects to convert approximately 60 of these locations to
its Lady Foot Locker, Kids Foot Locker, and Colorado formats. Additionally, the
Registrant will launch a new athletic outlet chain utilizing approximately 35
Footquarters locations and 40 existing Foot Locker and Champs Sports outlet
stores. The remaining stores are expected to close or be disposed of in 1999.
The Registrant recorded a charge to earnings of $243 million before-tax, or $160
million after-tax, for the loss on disposal of the Specialty Footwear
operations.
On July 17, 1997, the Registrant announced that it was exiting its 400
store Domestic General Merchandise segment and recorded a charge to earnings of
$310 million before-tax, or $195 million after-tax, for the loss on disposal of
discontinued operations. The Registrant plans to convert approximately 150
locations to Foot Locker, Champs Sports, and other athletic or specialty
formats. The Registrant has opened 147 stores in former domestic general
merchandise locations through October 31, 1998.
The results of operations for all periods presented for the International
General Merchandise segment, the Specialty Footwear segment, and the Domestic
General Merchandise segment have been classified as discontinued operations in
the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Sales and net income or loss from discontinued operations for the quarter
and year-to-date periods through the date of discontinuance of each segment are
presented below.
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9
Sales Thirteen weeks ended Thirty-nine weeks ended
- ----- -------------------- -----------------------
(in millions) October 31, October 25, October 31, October 25,
1998 1997 1998 1997
---- ---- ---- ----
International General Merchandise $ 234 $ 340 $ 842 $ 1,040
Specialty Footwear .............. 79 136 301 384
Domestic General Merchandise .... - - - 427
---- ---- ----- -----
Total ........................... $ 313 $ 476 $ 1,143 $ 1,851
==== ==== ===== =====
Net income (loss) Thirteen weeks ended Thirty-nine weeks ended
- ----------------- -------------------- -----------------------
(in millions) October 31, October 25, October 31, October 25,
1998 1997 1998 1997
---- ---- ---- ----
International General Merchandise $ (1) $ 4 $ (9) $ (2)
Specialty Footwear .............. 7 1 (17) (7)
Domestic General Merchandise .... - - - (28)
---- ---- ---- ----
Total ........................... $ 6 $ 5 $ (26) $ (37)
==== ==== ==== ====
The following is a summary of the net assets of discontinued operations:
(in millions) October 31, October 25, Jan. 31,
1998 1997 1998
---- ---- ----
International General Merchandise
Assets .......................... $ 57 $ 854 $ 786
Liabilities ..................... 13 419 354
Net assets of discontinued ---- ---- ----
operations .................... $ 44 $ 435 $ 432
==== ==== ====
Specialty Footwear
Assets .......................... $ 190 $ 244 $ 213
Liabilities ..................... 26 33 33
Net assets of discontinued ---- ---- ----
operations .................... $ 164 $ 211 $ 180
==== ==== ====
Domestic General Merchandise
Assets .......................... $ 46 $ 100 $ 28
Liabilities ..................... 34 149 21
Net assets (liabilities) of ---- ---- ----
discontinued operations ....... $ 12 $ (49) $ 7
==== ==== ====
Total Net Assets of discontinued
operations ................... $ 220 $ 597 $ 619
==== ==== ====
The assets of each segment consist primarily of inventory and fixed assets.
The liabilities of the International General Merchandise segment at October 25,
1997 and January 31, 1998 predominantly include amounts due to vendors and
pension liabilities. The decrease in net assets of International General
Merchandise discontinued operations at October 31, 1998 reflects the sale of the
German general merchandise operations on October 22, 1998. The liabilities of
the Specialty Footwear and Domestic General Merchandise segments primarily
reflect amounts due to vendors.
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The discontinued operations reserve for International General Merchandise
of $41 million was reduced by a $2 million foreign currency translation
adjustment. Disposition activity of $48 million for the period from September
16, 1998 to October 31, 1998 reduced the reserve of $243 million recorded for
Specialty Footwear discontinued operations to $195 million. Disposition activity
related to the discontinued operations reserve for the quarter and year-to-date
periods ended October 31, 1998 was approximately $32 million and $77 million,
respectively, for the domestic general merchandise business. The remaining
reserve balance at October 31, 1998 was $13 million.
Earnings Per Share
- ------------------
Basic earnings per share is computed as net earnings divided by the
weighted-average number of common shares outstanding for the period. Diluted
earnings per share reflects the potential dilution that could occur from common
shares issuable through stock-based compensation including stock options,
restricted stock awards and other convertible securities. A reconciliation of
weighted-average common shares outstanding to weighted-average common shares
assuming dilution follows:
Thirteen weeks ended Thirty-nine weeks ended
-------------------- -----------------------
October 31, October 25, October 31, October 25,
(in millions) 1998 1997 1998 1997
---- ---- ---- ----
Weighted-average common shares
outstanding ................ 135.6 134.9 135.4 134.5
Incremental common shares
issuable ................... - 1.4 - 1.3
Weighted-average common shares ----- ----- ----- -----
assuming dilution .......... 135.6 136.3 135.4 135.8
===== ===== ===== =====
Incremental common shares were not included in the computation for the
quarter and year-to-date periods ended October 31, 1998 since their inclusion in
periods when the Registrant reported a loss from continuing operations would be
antidilutive. For the thirteen and the thirty-nine weeks ended October 25, 1997,
options with an exercise price greater than the average market price are not
included in the computation of diluted earnings per share and would not have a
material impact on diluted earnings per share.
Comprehensive Income
- --------------------
The Registrant adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS")
No. 130, "Reporting Comprehensive Income," in the first quarter of 1998. SFAS
No. 130 establishes standards for reporting and display of comprehensive income
or loss and its components in the financial statements. Comprehensive income is
a more inclusive financial reporting methodology that includes the disclosure of
certain financial information that has not been recognized in the calculation of
net income or loss, such as foreign currency translations and changes in minimum
pension liability which are recorded directly to shareholders' equity.
Accumulated other comprehensive loss was comprised of foreign currency
translation adjustments of $142 million, $49 million, and $34 million, and
minimum pension liability adjustments of $43 million, $37 million, and $45
million, at October 31, 1998, October 25, 1997, and January 31, 1998,
respectively.
Reclassifications
- -----------------
Certain balances in prior periods have been reclassified to conform with
the presentation adopted in the current period. As discussed above, all
financial statements have been restated to reflect the discontinuance of the
Specialty Footwear and International General Merchandise segments.
Legal Proceedings
- -----------------
There are no material legal proceedings.
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Recent Accounting Pronouncements
- --------------------------------
In June 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued SFAS
No. 131, "Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information,"
which is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning
after December 15, 1997 and therefore, effective for the Registrant in 1998. The
Registrant will adopt the provisions of this standard in the fourth quarter of
1998. SFAS No. 131 supersedes previously established standards for reporting
operating segments in the financial statements and requires disclosures
regarding selected information about operating segments in interim and annual
financial reports.
In February 1998, the FASB issued SFAS No. 132, "Employers' Disclosures
about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits," which is effective for fiscal
years beginning after December 15, 1997 and therefore, effective for the
Registrant in 1998. This statement revises employers' disclosures about pensions
and other postretirement benefit plans. It does not change the measurement or
recognition of those plans.
In June 1998, the FASB issued SFAS No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative
Instruments and Hedging Activities," which is effective for fiscal quarters of
fiscal years beginning after June 15, 1999 and therefore, effective for the
Registrant in 2000. SFAS No. 133 establishes accounting and reporting standards
for derivative instruments, including certain derivative instruments embedded in
other contracts, and hedging activities. It requires that an entity recognize
all derivatives as either assets or liabilities in the statement of financial
position and measure those instruments at fair value. The Registrant is in the
process of evaluating SFAS No. 133 to determine its impact on the consolidated
financial statements.
Short-Term Debt
- ---------------
On September 25, 1998, the Registrant borrowed $180 million under a
separate loan agreement ,in addition to amounts borrowed under its April 9, 1997
$500 million revolving credit agreement ("revolving credit agreement"). This
facility was subsequently repaid with proceeds received from the sale of its
German general merchandise business. Due to lower than planned earnings in the
quarter and the charges related to the closing of the Registrant's Specialty
Footwear operations, the Registrant obtained a waiver with regard to certain
financial covenants contained in the revolving credit agreement for the period
from October 31, 1998 through March 19, 1999. During the waiver period, the
Registrant is prohibited from paying cash dividends or repurchasing, redeeming,
retiring, or acquiring any shares of its capital stock. The Registrant is in the
process of amending its revolving credit agreement and expects to have an
amended credit facility in place prior to expiration of the waiver.
Subsequent Event
- ----------------
On June 22, 1998, the Registrant entered into an agreement to sell its
Corporate Headquarters building in New York, the Woolworth Building, and lease
back four floors. These transactions were completed on December 4, 1998 for
gross proceeds of $137.5 million. The Registrant will record a gain on the sale
totaling approximately $55 million after-tax, a substantial portion of which
will be recongnized in the fourth quarter with the remainder recognized over the
lease terms.
Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
of Operations
- -------------
As discussed more fully in the footnotes to the Condensed Consolidated
Financial Statements, the Registrant announced that it was exiting its Specialty
Footwear and its International General Merchandise segments. Accordingly, the
results of operations for all periods presented for these businesses have been
classified as discontinued operations and all financial statements have been
restated.
Total sales for the 1998 third quarter increased 1.4 percent to $1,122
million as compared with $1,107 million for the third quarter of 1997,
reflecting sales from 384 additional stores, offset by a comparable-store sales
decline of 5.3 percent. Excluding the effect of foreign currency fluctuations
and sales from disposed operations, sales increased 2.8 percent for the quarter.
Sales for the thirty-nine weeks ended October 31, 1998 increased 0.8
percent to $3,223 million as compared with $3,198 million for the same period a
year earlier. Excluding the effect of foreign currency fluctuations and sales
from disposed operations, sales increased 2.0 percent as compared with the
corresponding prior-year period. Year-to-date comparable-store sales decreased
6.4 percent.
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12
Gross margin, as a percentage of sales, decreased 790 basis points to 25.1
percent for the quarter and decreased from 32.2 percent to 27.9 percent for the
year-to-date period in 1998, as compared with the corresponding periods a year
earlier. These declines primarily reflect increased markdowns as a result of the
Registrant's decision to embark on an aggressive inventory reduction program in
the third quarter 1998 to ensure that inventories remain current in order to
enhance its competitiveness for 1999.
Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $50 million and $83
million for the thirteen and thirty-nine weeks ended October 31, 1998 as
compared with the corresponding prior-year periods. These increases primarily
reflect the incremental costs associated with the additional stores
year-over-year attributable to the new store program. These increases were
partially offset by decreases in net pension and net postretirement benefit
expense, which primarily reflects the amortization of the plans' unrecognized
gains and losses over the average remaining life expectancy of inactive
participants, who now comprise the majority of the plans' participants.
Previously, the unrecognized gains and losses were amortized over the average
remaining service period of active participants.
Third quarter operating results from continuing operations (before
corporate expense, interest expense and income taxes) reflect a $30 million loss
for 1998 as compared with a profit of $91 million for the third quarter of 1997,
reflecting a significant increase in inventory markdown activity and an increase
in selling, general and administrative expenses. For the thirty-nine weeks ended
October 31, 1998, operating profit declined to $43 million from $245 million in
the corresponding prior-year period.
Interest expense, net of interest income, increased $10 million for the
1998 third quarter and year-to-date periods as compared with the corresponding
prior-year periods. The incremental interest expense is attributable to
increased short- term borrowing levels during 1998 and is partially offset by
interest income of approximately $7 million related to a franchise tax
settlement in the second quarter.
The Registrant reported a loss from continuing operations for the thirteen
weeks ended October 31, 1998 of $40 million, or $0.29 per diluted share, as
compared with income of $50 million, or $0.37 per diluted share for the
prior-year period ended October 25, 1997. Year-to-date continuing operations
include a $26 million loss for 1998 as compared with $107 million in income for
the prior-year period.
During the quarter the effective tax rate was adjusted to 47.4 percent and
50 percent for the quarter and year-to-date periods ended October 31, 1998,
respectively, as compared with 34.2 percent and 37.8 percent for the
corresponding prior-year periods. The increase reflects the impact of
non-deductible terms, such as goodwill amortization, at lower earnings levels.
The net loss for the quarter of $155 million or $1.14 per diluted share
includes $115 million (after-tax) or $0.85 per diluted share for discontinued
operations. This compares with net income of $55 million, or $0.40 per diluted
share for the corresponding prior-year period. The net loss for the thirty-nine
weeks ended October 31, 1998 of $173 million or $1.27 per diluted share,
includes $147 million (after-tax), or $1.08 per diluted share for discontinued
operations. This compares with a net loss of $125 million, or $0.92 per diluted
share for the corresponding prior-year period, which includes $232 million
(after-tax) or $1.71 per diluted share for discontinued operations.
Consistent with an announcement made by the Registrant during the quarter,
in light of current trends, particularly in athletic apparel, and based upon its
intention to continue to position its inventory properly for the beginning of
1999, the Registrant expects fourth quarter earnings to be below plan.
The Registrant ended the third quarter with 5,964 stores consisting of
3,869 in the Athletic Group, 914 in the Northern Group and 1,181 in Other
Specialty. This compares with 5,580 stores at the end of the corresponding
prior-year period. During the thirty-nine weeks ended October 31, 1998, the
Registrant opened 500 stores, closed or disposed of 258 stores and remodeled or
relocated 361 stores. Of the 500 stores opened, 90 stores represent the first
quarter acquisition of Athletic Fitters stores.
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SALES
- -----
The following table summarizes sales for continuing operations by segment and
geographic area:
Thirteen weeks ended Thirty-nine weeks ended
-------------------- -----------------------
(in millions) October 31, October 25, October 31, October 25,
By Segment: ................ 1998 1997 1998 1997
---- ---- ---- ----
Specialty:
Athletic Group .......... $ 945 $ 912 $ 2,730 $ 2,685
Northern Group .......... 97 110 256 270
Other Specialty ......... 80 79 233 229
----- ----- ----- -----
Specialty total ............ 1,122 1,101 3,219 3,184
===== ===== ===== =====
Disposed operations ........ - 6 4 14
----- ----- ----- -----
$ 1,122 $ 1,107 $ 3,223 $ 3,198
===== ===== ===== =====
By Geographic Area:
Domestic ................ $ 936 $ 909 $ 2,711 $ 2,681
International ........... 186 192 508 503
Disposed operations ..... - 6 4 14
----- ----- ----- -----
$ 1,122 $ 1,107 $ 3,223 $ 3,198
===== ===== ===== =====
Athletic Group sales increased by 3.6 percent for the 1998 third quarter
and by 1.7 percent for the year-to-date period, as compared with the
corresponding periods a year earlier. The increase was primarily attributable to
sales from 360 additional stores and also, in part, to increased sales from
remodeled stores. Comparable-store sales declined by 5.1 percent and by 7.1
percent for the quarter and year-to-date periods reflecting decreased sales of
branded and licensed product, offset by improved sales from several athletic
footwear categories, such as running, trail and basketball.
Excluding the impact of foreign currency fluctuations, the Northern Group's
sales decreased by 8.7 percent and by 1.9 percent for the thirteen and
thirty-nine week periods, respectively. Comparable-store sales declined by 15.7
percent and 9.6 percent, respectively, reflecting the impact of a change in
merchandise mix and decreased sales from stores in the southern United States,
which experienced unusually mild weather in the fall.
Other Specialty 1998 third quarter and year-to-date comparable-store sales
increased by 9.9 percent and by 7.4 percent, as compared with the corresponding
prior-year periods. The afterthoughts format is primarily responsible for these
increases, reflecting, in part, the success of the format's larger-store design.
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OPERATING RESULTS
- -----------------
Operating results from continuing operations (before corporate expense, interest
expense, and income taxes) are as follows:
Thirteen weeks ended Thirty-nine weeks ended
-------------------- -----------------------
(in millions) October 31, October 25, October 31, October 25
1998 1997 1998 1997
---- ---- ---- ----
Specialty .................... $ (30) $ 92 $ 26 $ 247
Disposed operations .......... - (1) 17 (2)
---- ---- ---- ----
$ (30) $ 91 $ 43 $ 245
==== ==== ==== ====
By Geographic Area:
Domestic ..................... $ (36) $ 75 $ 24 $ 225
International ................ 6 17 2 22
Disposed operations .......... - (1) 17 (2)
---- ---- ---- ----
$ (30) $ 91 $ 43 $ 245
==== ==== ==== ====
The Specialty segment reported a loss of $30 million for the 1998 third
quarter as compared with a profit of $92 million in the 1997 third quarter. The
Athletic Group sales increases were more than offset by the increased
promotional markdowns taken as part of the aggressive inventory reduction
program undertaken by the Registrant in the third quarter, in order to keep the
product assortment current and enhance the Registrant's competitiveness for
1999. Operating results for the Northern Group for the 1998 third quarter and
year-to-date periods decreased due to disappointing sales. Other Specialty
operating results improved by 42.9 percent and by 36.4 percent for the thirteen
and thirty-nine weeks ended October 31, 1998, respectively, as compared with the
corresponding prior year periods, predominantly related to the afterthoughts
format.
Included in disposed operations for the thirty-nine weeks ended October 31,
1998 is a $19 million gain from the sale of the Registrant's six-store nursery
chain. This gain is offset by a $2 million loss, including operating losses, for
the shutdown of the U.S. Randy River operations. This is part of the
Registrant's continuing program to reduce its investment in non-strategic
businesses. The prior-year amount represents the operating results of these
operations.
SEASONALITY
- -----------
The Registrant's businesses are seasonal in nature. Historically, the
greatest proportion of sales and net income is generated in the fourth quarter
and the lowest proportion of sales and net income is generated in the first
quarter, reflecting seasonal buying patterns. As a result of these seasonal
sales patterns, inventory generally increases in the third quarter in
anticipation of the strong fourth quarter sales.
12
15
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
- -------------------------------
Net cash used in operating activities was $409 million for the thirty-nine
weeks ended October 31, 1998, as compared with net cash provided by operating
activities of $52 million in the corresponding prior-year period. This
principally reflects the liquidation of the domestic general merchandise
business in the prior year and the operating losses incurred from continuing
operations in 1998. Inventories purchased in 1998 contributed to the increase in
accounts payable, and included inventory for approximately 200 new and remodeled
stores which were scheduled for completion in November.
Net cash from investing activities totaled $93 million for the thirty-nine
weeks ended October 31, 1998, as compared with $259 million net cash used during
the corresponding prior-year period. On October 22, 1998, the Registrant sold
its German general merchandise business for $563 million. Net proceeds received
from the sale amounted to $495 million, the majority of which were used to
reduce short-term borrowings. Cash used in investing activities in the prior
year was predominantly due to the first quarter acquisition of Eastbay, Inc. for
$140 million, in a transaction accounted for as a purchase. Capital expenditures
totaled $395 million for the thirty-nine weeks ended October 31, 1998 as
compared with $114 million for the corresponding prior-year period reflecting
planned expenditures related to the Registrant's aggressive new store and
remodeling program. Additionally, the increase is attributable to unplanned
expenditures relating to the repositioning of 50 additional domestic general
merchandise locations, as well as costs associated with a European distribution
center and the relocation and reduction in size of the Registrant's divisional
and corporate office space in connection with the sale of its Corporate
Headquarters. Capital expenditures for 1998 are expected to total $515 million.
Short-term debt, net of cash, increased by $220 million as of October 31,
1998, from October 25, 1997, reflecting increased borrowings under the
Registrant's revolving credit agreement primarily due to lower than expected
sales and increased capital expenditures. During the quarter, the Registrant
borrowed $180 million under a separate loan agreement, in addition to amounts
borrowed under the revolving credit agreement. This facility was subsequently
repaid with proceeds received from the sale of its German general merchandise
business. Due to lower than planned earnings in the quarter and the charges
related to the closing of the Registrant's Specialty Footwear operations, the
Registrant obtained a waiver with regard to the fixed charge coverage ratio and
the minimum consolidated tangible net worth covenants contained in the revolving
credit agreement for the period from October 31, 1998 through March 19, 1999.
During the waiver period, the Registrant is prohibited from paying cash
dividends or repurchasing, redeeming, retiring, or acquiring any shares of its
capital stock. The Registrant is in the process of amending its revolving credit
agreement and expects to have an amended credit facility in place prior to
expiration of the waiver.
The Registrant completed the sale of its Corporate Headquarters building in
New York, the Woolworth Building, and leased back four floors, on December 4,
1998 for gross proceeds of $137.5 million. The net proceeds will be used for
general corporate purposes.
On September 10, 1998, the Registrant and The Sports Authority, Inc.
jointly announced that they had mutually agreed to terminate, effective
immediately, the merger agreement pursuant to which The Sports Authority would
have become a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Registrant through a pooling of
interests.
13
16
YEAR 2000 READINESS DISCLOSURE
------------------------------
The Year 2000 ("Y2K") issue is the result of computer programs being
written using two digits, rather than four, to define the applicable year.
Mistaking "00" for the year 1900 could result in miscalculations and errors and
cause significant business interruptions for the Registrant, as well as for the
government and most other companies. The Registrant has instituted a plan to
assess its state of readiness for Y2K, to remediate those systems that are
non-compliant and to assure that material third parties will be Y2K compliant.
State of Readiness
- ------------------
The Registrant has assessed all mainframe, operating and application
systems (including point of sale) for Y2K readiness, giving the highest priority
to those information technology applications (IT) systems that are considered
critical to its business operations. Those applications considered most critical
to the Registrant's business operations have been remediated and testing is
scheduled to begin in December 1998. The remediation of the point of sale
equipment is expected to be completed in early 1999, with pilot testing
anticipated in March and April. Extensive testing of all remediated systems will
be performed throughout 1999 for implementation during that year.
Apart from the Y2K issue, the Registrant had developed and installed
throughout its business units beginning in 1997 a comprehensive information
computer system ("ECLIPSE"), encompassing merchandising, logistics, finance and
human resources. The ECLIPSE project was undertaken for business reasons
unrelated to Y2K. However, the installation of ECLIPSE eliminates the need to
reprogram or replace certain existing software for Y2K compliance.
The Registrant has compiled a comprehensive inventory of its non-IT
systems, which include those systems containing embedded chip technology
commonly found in buildings and equipment connected with a building's
infrastructure. Management is currently in the process of establishing the
priority and possible remediation of systems identified as non-compliant.
Preliminary investigations of the embedded chip systems indicate that Y2K will
not affect systems such as heating, ventilation and security in most store
locations. Ongoing testing and implementation of any remediation required for
the non-IT systems will be performed throughout 1999.
Material Third Parties
- ----------------------
Key vendors and service providers have been identified, whose
non-compliance could have a material impact on the Registrant's ability to
operate worldwide. Management has undertaken to determine the state of readiness
of its approximately 20 key vendors by issuing questionnaires and conducting
meetings and on-site visits. The level of compliance of the Registrant's major
providers of banking services, transportation, telecommunications and utilities
is in the course of being ascertained and the related risks established.
Y2K Costs
- ---------
The Registrant is utilizing both internal and external resources to address
the Y2K issue. Internal resources reflect the reallocation of IT personnel to
the Y2K project from other IT projects. In the opinion of management, the
deferral of such other projects will not have a significant adverse effect on
continuing operations. The total direct cost, excluding ECLIPSE, to remediate
the Y2K issue is estimated to be approximately $5 million, of which $1.2 million
has been spent. All costs, excluding ECLIPSE, are being expensed as incurred and
are funded through operating cash flows. The Registrant's Y2K costs are based on
management's best estimates and may be updated as additional information becomes
available. Management does not expect the total Y2K remediation costs to be
material to the Registrant's results of operations or financial condition.
Contingency Plan/Risks
- ----------------------
The Registrant is in the process of developing contingency plans for those
areas which might be affected by Y2K. Although the full consequences are
unknown, the failure of either the Registrant's critical systems or those of its
material third parties to be Y2K compliant could result in the interruption of
its business, which could have a material adverse effect on the results of
operations or financial condition of the Registrant.
14
17
IMPACT OF EUROPEAN MONETARY UNION
- ---------------------------------
The European Union is comprised of fifteen member states, eleven of which
will adopt a common currency, the "euro," effective January 1, 1999. From that
date until January 1, 2002, the transition period, the national currencies will
remain legal tender in the participating countries as denominations of the euro.
Monetary, capital, foreign exchange and interbank markets will convert to the
euro and non-cash transactions will be possible in euros. On January 1, 2002,
euro bank notes and coins will be issued and the former national currencies will
be withdrawn from circulation no later than July 1, 2002.
The Registrant has reviewed the impact of the euro conversion on its
information systems, accounting systems, vendor payments and human resources.
Modifications required to be made to the point of sale hardware and software
will be facilitated by the Y2K remediation.
The adoption of a single European currency will lead to greater product
pricing transparency and a more competitive environment. The Registrant will
display the euro equivalent price of merchandise as a customer service during
the transition period, as will many retailers until the official euro conversion
in 2002. The Registrant does not expect the euro conversion to have a material
adverse effect on its results of operations or financial condition.
DISCLOSURE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
- -----------------------------------------------
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal
securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical facts,
which address activities, events or developments that the Registrant expects or
anticipates will or may occur in the future, including such things as future
capital expenditures, expansion, strategic plans, growth of the Registrant's
business and operations, Y2K and euro related actions and other such matters are
forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on many
assumptions and factors including effects of currency fluctuations, consumer
preferences and economic conditions worldwide and the ability of the Registrant
to implement, in a timely manner, the programs and actions related to the Y2K
and euro issues. Any changes in such assumptions or factors could produce
significantly different results.
15
18
PART II - OTHER INFORMATION
---------------------------
Item 1. Legal Proceedings
- -------------------------
There are no material legal proceedings.
Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K
- ----------------------------------------
(a) Exhibits
--------
An index of the exhibits that are required by this item, and which are
furnished in accordance with Item 601 of Regulation S-K, appears on
pages 18 through 20. The exhibits which are in this report immediately
follow the index.
(b) Reports on Form 8-K
--------------------
The Registrant filed a report on Form 8-K dated August 12, 1998 (date
of earliest event reported) reporting that the Board of Directors
amended the By-laws of the Registrant to provide that the fiscal year
of the Registrant shall end on the Saturday closest to the last day in
January of each year, rather than on the last Saturday in January.
The Registrant filed a report on Form 8-K dated September 10, 1998
(date of earliest event reported) reporting that the Registrant and
The Sports Authority, Inc. jointly announced that they had mutually
agreed to terminate the merger agreement, effective immediately,
pursuant to which the Registrant would have acquired The Sports
Authority, Inc. in a tax-free exchange of shares.
The Registrant filed a report on Form 8-K dated September 16, 1998
(date of earliest event reported) reporting that: (i) the Registrant
announced that it is exiting its Specialty Footwear operations,
including 467 Kinney Shoe stores and 103 Footquarters stores, on
September 16, 1998, and (ii) on September 22, 1998, the Registrant
announced that it is exiting its International General Merchandise
business, including its 357 store German general merchandise
operations, which are being sold pursuant to a definitive agreement in
a management led buy-out backed by Electra Fleming, based in London.
16
19
SIGNATURE
---------
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
VENATOR GROUP, INC.
--------------------
(Registrant)
Date: December 14, 1998 /s/ Reid Johnson
--------------------------
REID JOHNSON
Senior Vice President
and Chief Financial Officer
17
20
VENATOR GROUP, INC.
-------------------
INDEX OF EXHIBITS REQUIRED BY ITEM 6(a) OF FORM 10-Q
AND FURNISHED IN ACCORDANCE WITH ITEM 601 OF REGULATION S-K
-----------------------------------------------------------
Exhibit No. in Item 601
of Regulation S-K Description
----------------- -----------
1 *
2 *
3(i)(a) Certificate of Incorporation of the Registrant, as
filed by the Department of State of the State of New
York on April 7, 1989 (incorporated herein by reference
to Exhibit 3(i)(a) to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
for the quarterly period ended July 26, 1997, filed by
the Registrant with the SEC on September 4, 1997 (the
"July 26, 1997 Form 10-Q")).
3(i)(b) Certificates of Amendment of the Certificate of
Incorporation of the Registrant, as filed by the
Department of State of the State of New York on (a)
July 20, 1989 (b) July 24, 1990 (c) July 9, 1997
(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3(i)(b) to
the July 26, 1997 Form 10-Q) and (d) June 11, 1998
(incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2(a) of
the Registration Statement on Form S-8 (Registration
No. 333-62425) previously filed with the SEC).
3(ii) By-laws of the Registrant, as amended (incorporated
herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2 of the Registration
Statement on Form S-8 (Registration No. 333-62425)
previously filed with the SEC).
4.1 The rights of holders of the Registrant's equity
securities are defined in the Registrant's Certificate
of Incorporation, as amended (incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibits 3(i)(a) and 3(i)(b) to the July
26, 1997 Form 10-Q and Exhibit 4.2(a) to the
Registration Statement on Form S-8 (Registration No.
333-62425) previously filed with the SEC).
4.2 Rights Agreement dated as of March 11, 1998, between
Venator Group, Inc. and First Chicago Trust Company of
New York, as Rights Agent (incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit 4 to the Form 8-K dated March 11,
1998).
4.3 Indenture dated as of October 10, 1991 (incorporated
herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Registration
Statement on Form S-3 (Registration No. 33-43334)
previously filed with the SEC).
4.4 Forms of Medium-Term Notes (Fixed Rate and Floating
Rate) (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibits 4.4
and 4.5 to the Registration Statement on Form S-3
(Registration No. 33-43334) previously filed with the
SEC).
18
21
Exhibit No. in Item 601
of Regulation S-K Description
----------------- -----------
4.5 Form of 8 1/2 % Debentures due 2022 (incorporated
herein by reference to Exhibit 4 to the Registrant's
Form 8-K dated January 16, 1992).
4.6 Purchase Agreement dated June 1, 1995 and Form of 7%
Notes due 2000 (incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibits 1 and 4, respectively, to the Registrant's
Form 8-K dated June 7, 1995).
4.7 Distribution Agreement dated July 13, 1995 and Forms of
Fixed Rate and Floating Rate Notes (incorporated herein
by reference to Exhibits 1, 4.1 and 4.2, respectively,
to the Registrant's Form 8-K dated July 13, 1995).
5 *
8 *
9 *
10.1 Venator Group Executive Severance Pay Plan.
10.2 Form of Senior Executive Severance Agreement.
10.3 Bridge Loan Agreement dated as of September 25, 1998.
10.4 Waiver dated as of November 6, 1998 to the Credit
Agreement dated April 9, 1997.
10.5 Agreement with S. Ronald Gaston dated November 10,
1998.
10.6 Agreement with Reid Johnson, dated September 17, 1998
10.7 Purchase and Sale Agreement, as amended.
11 *
12 *
13 *
15 Letter re: Unaudited Interim Financial Statements.
16 *
17 *
18 *
19 *
20 *
21 *
22 *
23 *
24 *
25 *
19
22
Exhibit No. in Item 601
of Regulation S-K Description
----------------- -----------
26 *
27.1 Financial Data Schedule, October 31, 1998 (which is
submitted electronically to the SEC for information
only and not filed).
27.2 Restated Financial Data Schedule - October 25, 1997
(which is submitted electronically to the SEC for
information only and not filed).
99 Independent Accountants' Review Report.
- -------------------
* Not applicable
20
23
Exhibits filed with this Form 10-Q:
Exhibit No. Description
- ----------- -----------
10.1 Venator Group Executive Severance Pay Plan.
10.2 Form of Senior Executive Severance Agreement.
10.3 Bridge Loan Agreement dated as of September 25, 1998.
10.4 Waiver dated as of November 6, 1998 to the Credit
Agreement dated April 9, 1997.
10.5 Agreement with S. Ronald Gaston dated November 10,
1998.
10.6 Agreement with Reid Johnson dated, September 17, 1998.
10.7 Purchase and Sale Agreement, as amended.
15 Letter re: Unaudited Interim Financial Statements.
27.1 Financial Data Schedule - October 31, 1998.
27.2 Restated Financial Data Schedule - October 25, 1997.
99 Independent Accountants' Review Report.