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UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-K
[X] ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE
ACT OF 1934 For the fiscal year ended January 31, 1998
OR
[ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES
EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Commission File No. 1-13339
FRED MEYER, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware 91-1826443
(State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization) Identification No.)
3800 SE 22nd Avenue
Portland, Oregon 97202
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
(503) 232-8844
(Registrant's telephone number, including area code)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Name of each Exchange
Title of class on which registered
Common Stock, $.01 par value New York Stock Exchange
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
Title of Class
$250,000,000 7.150% Notes Due March 1, 2003
$750,000,000 7.375% Notes Due March 1, 2005
$750,000,000 7.450% Notes Due March 1, 2008
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports
required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of
1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the
registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such
filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes [X] No [ ]
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item
405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements
incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this
Form 10-K. [X]
Aggregate market value of Common Stock held by nonaffiliates of the
registrant at April 24, 1998: $5,732,802,045
Number of shares of Common Stock outstanding at April 24, 1998: 152,960,867
Documents Incorporated by Reference
Part of Form 10-K into
Document which incorporated
Portions of Proxy Statement for Part III
1998 Annual Meeting of Stockholders
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Table of Contents
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Item of Form 10-K Page
Part I
Item 1 Business ................................................... 3
Item 2 Properties .................................................10
Item 3 Legal Proceedings ..........................................10
Item 4 Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders ........13
Item 4A Executive Officers of the Registrant .......................13
Part II
Item 5 Market for the Registrant's Common Stock and Related
Stockholder Matters ........................................15
Item 6 Selected Financial Data ....................................16
Item 7 Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations ..................................17
Item 7A Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About
Market Risk ................................................21
Item 8 Financial Statements and Supplementary Data ................22
Item 9 Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting
and Financial Disclosure ...................................44
Part III
Item 10 Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant .........45
Item 11 Executive Compensation .....................................45
Item 12 Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners
and Management .............................................45
Item 13 Certain Relationships and Related Transactions .............45
Part IV
Item 14 Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and Reports
on Form 8-K ................................................46
Signatures ...................................................................50
2
Part I
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Item 1. Business.
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General
Fred Meyer, Inc. is one of the largest domestic food retailers, operating
more than 800 supermarkets and multidepartment stores. In September 1997, the
Company acquired Smith's Food & Drug Centers, Inc. ("Smith's") in a merger, and
in March 1998, the Company acquired Quality Food Centers, Inc. ("QFC") and Food
4 Less Holdings, Inc. ("Ralphs/Food 4 Less") in two separate mergers. The
Company is a geographically diversified food retailer that operates multiple
formats that appeal to customers across a wide range of income brackets. In the
Pacific Northwest, Southwest and Intermountain states, the Company operates
multidepartment stores principally under the Fred Meyer banner and food and
drug combination stores principally under the Smith's Food & Drug Centers
banner; in Southern California, the Company operates conventional supermarkets
under the Ralphs and Hughes Family Markets banners and price-impact warehouse
supermarkets under the Food 4 Less banner; and in the Seattle/Puget Sound
Region, the Company also operates premium supermarkets principally under the QFC
banner.
The Company was incorporated in Delaware in 1997 and commenced operations
on September 9, 1997 as the successor to Fred Meyer Stores, Inc. (formerly known
as Fred Meyer, Inc.) and Smith's. The Company's principal executive offices are
located at 3800 SE 22nd Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97202, and its telephone number
is (503) 232-8844. The Company operates its business through four principal
subsidiaries: Fred Meyer Stores, Inc. ("Fred Meyer Stores"), Smith's, QFC and
Ralphs/Food 4 Less. Unless the context requires otherwise, references in this
Annual Report on Form 10-K to the "Company" or "Fred Meyer" mean (a) before
September 9, 1997, Fred Meyer Stores and its subsidiaries, (b) on and after
September 9, 1997, Fred Meyer, Inc. and its subsidiaries (including Fred Meyer
Stores and Smith's) and (c) on and after March 10, 1998, Fred Meyer, Inc. and
its subsidiaries (including Fred Meyer Stores, Smith's, QFC and Ralphs/Food 4
Less). This Annual Report on Form 10-K contains financial statements of Fred
Meyer, Inc. as of and for the fiscal year ending January 31, 1998. Because the
QFC merger and the Ralphs/Food 4 Less merger occurred after the end of the
Company's 1997 fiscal year, no financial information of QFC and Ralphs/Food 4
Less is included in the Company's financial statements included herein (except
as set forth in Note 13 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements
under Item 8). Financial information for Smith's is included only for periods
beginning on and after September 9, 1997.
Competitive Strengths
Because of the contiguous and overlapping geographic areas of operations of
Fred Meyer Stores, Smith's, QFC and Ralphs/Food 4 Less and their complementary
merchandising strategies, the Company believes the recent mergers will
strengthen the Company's store franchises and allow the Company to realize
significant additional benefits. Management believes that the Company benefits
from the following competitive strengths: (i) an outstanding franchise value;
(ii) leading market shares in fast-growing markets; (iii) a well-positioned and
modern store base; (iv) a modern infrastructure; and (v) an experienced
management team.
Outstanding Franchise Value. As a result of the long operating histories of
the Company's banners and their reputation for delivering superior customer
value, the Company has developed strong brand name recognition and customer
loyalty for each of its operating formats. Management believes that the Company
has benefitted and should continue to benefit from this strong franchise value.
Leading Market Shares in Fast-Growing Markets. By offering superior
customer service and competitive pricing, the Company's banners have developed
leading market shares in each of their principal markets. The Company has the
number one market share in the Los Angeles, Orange County, Seattle, Las Vegas,
Salt Lake City and Albuquerque markets and the number two market share in the
Phoenix, Portland and Riverside/San Bernardino markets which are among the
largest and fastest growing population centers in the United States.
Well-Positioned and Modern Store Base. Management believes that the
Company's store locations include many sites in developed urban and suburban
locations which would be difficult to replicate. The Company has invested
significant capital in its store base over the last seven years through the
addition of new stores and the remodeling of existing stores in order to improve
the overall quality of its customer's shopping experience. As a result,
approximately 77% of the Company's stores have been opened or remodeled within
the past seven years.
3
Modern Infrastructure. The Company believes it has state-of-the-industry
warehousing and distribution systems which are conveniently located within the
areas served by the Company. As a result of the recent mergers and the
significant investment in its infrastructure over the last several years,
management believes the Company will be able to lower its distribution costs as
a percentage of net sales and maintain lower levels of inventory.
Experienced Management Team. The senior operating management of Fred Meyer
Stores, Smith's, QFC and Ralphs/Food 4 Less are continuing to operate their
respective store bases supported in large part by centralized purchasing,
distribution, and manufacturing. These senior operating managers have an average
of over 24 years of experience in the food retailing industry. Moreover, many of
the senior operating managers of the Company have spent much of their careers in
their respective local markets. Members of the senior management team have
successfully completed several acquisitions at their respective companies. The
Company considers its senior management to be industry leaders in operating its
principal store formats: one-stop shopping multidepartment, food and drug
combination, premium, conventional and price-impact supermarket stores.
Fred Meyer Stores
Fred Meyer Stores has been in retail operations in the Pacific Northwest
since 1922. At March 10, 1998, Fred Meyer Stores operated 113 multidepartment
stores in the Pacific Northwest and Intermountain regions under the Fred Meyer
banner, including 45 stores in Oregon, 41 stores in Washington, 10 stores in
Utah, 7 stores in Alaska, 9 stores in Idaho, and 1 store in Montana. The average
Fred Meyer multidepartment store is 145,700 square feet with a flexible store
format offering a full-service food department and a variety of nonfood
departments. In addition, Fred Meyer Stores operates 162 specialty stores
consisting primarily of 158 mall jewelry stores operating under the names Fred
Meyer Jewelers, Merksamer Jewelers, and Fox's Jewelers.
With its multidepartment stores Fred Meyer emphasizes customer
satisfaction, large selections of highly popular products and competitive
pricing. In these stores, Fred Meyer typically sells over 225,000 items, with an
emphasis on necessities and items of everyday use. These stores are organized
into departments and sections within departments that specialize in the sale of
particular products such as food, apparel, home electronics, products for the
home, general merchandise and fine jewelry. Most of Fred Meyer's departments and
sections are self-service, except in areas where special sales assistance is
required, such as service delicatessens, service meat and/or fish, home
electronics, fine jewelry and pharmacy. Most of the multidepartment store
locations have complementary third-party tenants (such as banks, optical
centers, gourmet coffee bars, restaurants and video rental stores). The Fred
Meyer stores are generally positioned as the lowest priced full-service food
retailer in each of Fred Meyer's major markets. Management believes that Fred
Meyer's everyday low price food strategy increases the shopping frequency of
customers, builds customer loyalty and increases customer traffic, thereby
generating higher levels of sales in nonfood departments. The nonfood
departments carry a broad selection of national and private label brands and
employ a promotional pricing strategy. The nonfood departments have recently
focused on developing selected specialty boutique departments which management
believes have increased overall same store sales and resulted in higher gross
margins.
Together with a wide variety of well-known national brands, food
departments in Fred Meyer multidepartment stores carry private-label brands of
grocery items under the names First Choice, Fred Meyer, and FMV (Fred Meyer
Value). Since 1992, Fred Meyer Stores has focused on increasing sales of
private-label grocery items. As a result of this focus, the sale of
private-label grocery items has increased from approximately 12% to
approximately 20% of total food sales in 1997. Private-label items generally
generate higher margins for Fred Meyer Stores at lower prices for the consumer
than national brand products. The strategy employed in nonfood departments is to
use private-label products for both entry-level price points and better
offerings at value prices. In 1995 and 1996, Fred Meyer Stores introduced
additional private-label items in the home and apparel departments to bring
additional value to its customers and to improve gross margins in these areas.
Private-label sales in the home and apparel departments represented
approximately 16% of these departments' sales in fiscal 1997, with a long-term
goal of 20%.
Smith's
At March 10, 1998, Smith's operated a total of 156 stores, averaging 67,200
square feet, (including 133 food and drug combination stores under the Smith's
Food & Drug Centers banner, 18 multidepartment stores under the Smitty's
banner; and 5 price-impact warehouse format stores under the PriceRite banner)
in a seven-state area as follows: Arizona (57), Utah (41), Nevada (25), New
Mexico (19), Idaho (5), Wyoming (5) and Texas (4). Smith's Food & Drug Centers'
operating format offers customers the ability to fulfill a significant portion
of their daily and weekly shopping needs at one convenient location and
establishes and promotes a reputation as a low price operator in the trade area
of each of its stores.
4
Substantially all of the Smith's Food & Drug Centers offer shopping
convenience through a food and drug combination format which features a
full-line supermarket with drug and pharmacy departments as well as some or all
of the following specialty departments: delicatessens, hot prepared food
sections, in-store bakeries, video rental shops, floral shops, one-hour photo
processing labs, full-service banking, and frozen yogurt shops. In addition,
combination stores carry a wide variety of general merchandise, including
pharmaceutical products, toys, hardware, giftware, greeting cards and small
appliances. Within each category of merchandise, the stores offer multiple
selections of nationally advertised brand name items. In addition, the stores
carry an extensive selection of private-label merchandise, which provides
comparable quality products priced lower than national brands. Approximately 20%
of Smith's Food & Drug Centers' grocery sales are derived from private-label
items. Smith's Food & Drug Centers also carry a variety of bulk merchandise and
generic brand products which enhance its low price image. The 18 Smitty's
multidepartment stores offer an expanded selection of non-grocery merchandise
in a format similar to Fred Meyer multidepartment stores. The five PriceRite
Grocery Warehouse stores are targeted to price-conscious consumers rather than
conventional supermarket consumers. The PriceRite stores offer lower prices,
fewer stock keeping units ("SKUs") and fewer service departments than
conventional supermarket stores.
The "Fresh Values Frequent Shopper Card," which was introduced in 1997, is
at the core of Smith's Food & Drug Centers' marketing strategy. Management
believes that this strategy has provided Smith's Food & Drug Centers with
significant brand identity and operating leverage. The card provides
differentiation in most markets as the majority of Smith's Food & Drug Centers'
competitors do not offer a similar discount. Management believes that the "Fresh
Values Frequent Shopper Card": (i) increases shopping frequency (ii) increases
average transaction size; (iii) cultivates loyalty in the most profitable
customers; (iv) reduces customer defections; and (v) builds customer data for
targeted marketing programs.
QFC
At March 10, 1998, QFC operated 89 QFC stores in the Seattle/Puget Sound
Region and 56 Hughes Family Markets in Southern California. The QFC stores range
in size from 14,000 to 68,000 square feet and average 35,276 square feet. During
the past six years, QFC has expanded its presence in the Seattle/Puget Sound
Region and contiguous geographic markets by acquiring and successfully
integrating 54 stores from 11 operators, including 12 stores acquired from
Olson's Food Stores in 1995 and 25 stores acquired from Keith Uddenberg, Inc. in
1997.
Management believes that QFC has historically achieved strong margins which
it attributes primarily to QFC's merchandising and operating practices combined
with favorable customer demographics in its markets. Offering a wide variety of
high-quality meat, seafood, produce, deli and bakery items to its customers is a
fundamental tenet of QFC's merchandising strategy. Management believes that its
reputation for providing among the freshest and widest varieties of these major
groups of perishables, displayed in a clean and visually appealing presentation
is a major attraction for its customers. QFC has recently developed a three-tier
proprietary brands program, which includes "signature," "endorsed" and "price
fighter" brands. QFC's proprietary brands sales for its fiscal year ending
December 27, 1997 accounted for approximately 9% of grocery sales.
QFC's merchandising strategy emphasizes: (i) superior customer service;
(ii) a wide variety of quality meat, seafood, produce and other perishables;
(iii) high-quality convenience-oriented specialty departments and services; and
(iv) a broad assortment of higher-margin proprietary brands. Management believes
that QFC's strengths in merchandising have earned QFC stores a reputation for
providing superior value to their customers. QFC has significantly expanded its
selection of prepared foods and "home meal replacements" which management
believes appeals to the increasing convenience orientation of its customers.
Many QFC stores also offer natural food sections, video rentals, fresh juice
bars and pharmacies. In addition, QFC has leased space within its stores to
branded specialty food operators including Starbucks Coffee, Cinnabon World
Famous Cinnamon Rolls and Noah's New York Bagels, as well as to full-service
banks such as Seafirst National Bank.
In March 1997, QFC acquired Hughes Markets, Inc. ("Hughes'), a Los
Angeles-based supermarket chain. Following the QFC and Ralphs/Food 4
Less mergers, the stores operating under the Hughes Family Markets banner will
be operated by Ralphs/Food 4 Less and will eventually be converted to the Ralphs
banner. Management believes that the consolidation of Hughes into Ralphs will
result in significant operating and merchandising efficiencies. Hughes currently
operates a total of 56 stores in Southern California including 30 stores in Los
Angeles County, 13 in Orange County, 6 in San Bernardino County, 4 in Ventura
County and 3 in Riverside County.
5
Ralphs/Food 4 Less
With the first Ralphs store opening in 1872, Ralphs/Food 4 Less is the
largest supermarket operator in Southern California, which is one of the largest
food retailing markets in the United States with a population of 19 million. As
of March 10, 1998, Ralphs/Food 4 Less' Southern California operations included
264 conventional supermarkets, averaging 36,800 square feet, under the Ralphs
banner and 80 price-impact supermarkets in a warehouse format, averaging 52,600
square feet, under the Food 4 Less banner. Operating two complementary formats
allows Ralphs/Food 4 Less to serve a broader customer base than its competitors.
Ralphs stocks between 35,000 and 45,000 merchandise items in its stores,
including approximately 2,800 private-label products. Ralphs stores offer
name-brand grocery products; quality and freshness in its produce, meat,
seafood, delicatessen and bakery products and broad selection in all
departments. Most Ralphs stores offer service delicatessen departments,
on-premises bakery facilities and seafood departments. Ralphs emphasizes store
ambiance and cleanliness, fast and friendly service, the convenience of debit
and credit card payment (including many in-store branch banks) and 24-hour
operations in most stores.
Ralphs utilizes innovative and aggressive marketing programs in an effort
to increase sales, market share and profitability, which emphasize Ralphs' lower
regular retail prices in conjunction with its premier quality, wide selection
and enhanced customer service. The marketing programs are designed to increase
store traffic and sales by a coordinated use of media advertisement, double
coupon offerings and targeted marketing efforts with the "Ralphs Club Card"
program. The "Ralphs Club Card" program is a frequent shopper program intended
to increase customer shopping frequency and transaction size and to provide
valuable information about consumer shopping habits. Ralphs continues to
emphasize its successful merchandising programs and exceptional product mix,
including its home meal replacement program and strong private label program.
Ralphs' private label program provides quality comparable to that of national
brands at lower prices, while its gross margins on private label products are
generally higher than on national brands. The Ralphs home meal replacement
program offers a wide range of high-quality, prepackaged fresh, refrigerated and
frozen food items.
Food 4 Less is a warehouse-style, price-impact store which is positioned to
offer the lowest overall prices in its marketing areas by passing on to the
consumer savings achieved through labor efficiencies and lower overhead and
advertising costs associated with the warehouse format, while providing the
product selection and variety associated with a conventional format. In-store
operations are designed to allow customers to perform certain labor-intensive
services usually offered in conventional supermarkets. For example, merchandise
is presented on warehouse style racks in full cartons, reducing labor intensive
unpacking, and customers bag their own groceries. Management believes that there
is a significant segment of the market, encompassing a wide range of demographic
groups, which prefers to shop in a warehouse format supermarket because of its
lowest overall pricing.
Ralphs/Food 4 Less also operates stores in Northern California and the
Midwest. The Northern California division of Ralphs/Food 4 Less currently
operates 21 conventional supermarkets in the greater San Francisco Bay area
under the Cala and Bell banners and six warehouse format stores under the
FoodsCo banner. The Midwestern division of Ralphs/Food 4 Less currently operates
38 stores, of which 33 operate under the Food 4 Less banner, and five of which
are conventional supermarkets operated under the Falley's banner. Of these 38
stores, 34 are located in Kansas and four are located in Missouri.
On February 10, 1998, the Company, Ralphs/Food 4 Less and QFC entered into
a settlement agreement (the "Settlement Agreement") with the State of California
to settle potential antitrust and unfair competition claims that the State of
California asserted against the Company, Ralphs/Food 4 Less and QFC relating to
the effects of the mergers on supermarket competition in Southern California
(the "State Claims"). Without admitting any liability in connection with the
State Claims, the Company, Ralphs/Food 4 Less and QFC agreed in the Settlement
Agreement to divest 19 specific stores in Southern California. Under the
Settlement Agreement, the Company must divest 13 stores by September 10, 1998
and the balance of six stores by December 10, 1998. The Company also agreed not
to acquire new stores from third parties in the Southern California areas
specified in the Settlement Agreement (covering substantially all of the Los
Angeles metropolitan area) for five years following the date of the Settlement
Agreement without providing prior notice to the State of California. If the
Company fails to divest the required stores by the two dates set forth in the
Settlement Agreement, the Company has agreed not to object to the appointment of
a trustee to effect the required sales.
Distribution and Processing
The Company has over 225,000 SKUs supplied by over 10,000 suppliers, none
of which represents more than five
6
percent of the Company's total purchases. Due to its many sources of supply, the
Company believes that it has many alternative sources of supply for the products
it purchases. The Company also believes its purchase terms are generally in line
with industry practices.
Fred Meyer Stores operates a 1.5 million square foot food and nonfood
distribution center in Clackamas, Oregon, near Portland, a 310,000 square foot
flow-through distribution facility in Chehalis, Washington and a 600,000 square
foot food distribution center in Puyallup near Seattle, Washington. Fred Meyer
Stores' flow-through retail service center in Chehalis serves as the centralized
distribution facility for certain apparel, music, seasonal and other nonfood
items. This facility minimizes the required handling and processing of goods
received from vendors and distributed to Fred Meyer stores. It has improved
inventory management and reduced distribution costs for the goods shipped
through this facility. The Puyallup facility serves stores in the Puget Sound
Region and Alaska. The facility reduces the cost of transporting goods into the
Puget Sound and Alaska markets and affords Fred Meyer Stores increased
forward-buying opportunities. In addition, Fred Meyer Stores operates a large
fleet of trucks and trailers for distribution of goods to its retail stores. QFC
will convert the purchasing and distribution of the majority of the items that
it historically purchased from wholesale suppliers to utilize Fred Meyer Stores'
warehousing and distributions infrastructure.
Smith's operates a 1.1 million square foot distribution center in Tolleson,
Arizona, a 573,000 square foot grocery warehouse in Layton, Utah, and a 634,000
square foot nonfood distribution center in Salt Lake City, Utah. Smith's also
operates two smaller produce warehouses in Ontario, California and Albuquerque,
New Mexico which will be consolidated into the Tolleson facility in 1998. In
addition, Smith's operates a large fleet of trucks and trailers for distribution
of goods to its retail stores.
Ralphs/Food 4 Less operates a warehousing and manufacturing space
consisting of a 675,000 square foot dry grocery service center, a 270,000 square
foot refrigerated and frozen food facility and a 115,000 square foot creamery
facility in Riverside, California. It also operates a 17 million cubic foot
high-rise automated storage and retrieval system warehouse for non-perishable
items, near Glendale, California and a 5.4 million cubic foot facility in
Compton, California designed to process and store all perishable products. Due
to its use of the Riverside facility, Ralphs/Food 4 Less has been able to
consolidate its distribution operations, allowing it to reduce transportation
costs, management overhead and outside storage costs and to improve inventory
management. The Glendale facility can hold substantially more inventory and
requires fewer employees to operate than a conventional warehouse of equal size.
The Compton facility has provided Ralphs/Food 4 Less with the ability to deliver
perishable products to its stores on a daily basis, thereby improving the
freshness and quality of these products. In addition, Ralphs/Food 4 Less
operates a large fleet of trucks and trailers for distribution of goods to its
retail stores.
Hughes owns a 600,000 square foot distribution facility in Irwindale,
California. Going forward, Hughes will utilize Ralphs/Food 4 Less'
administrative, distribution and manufacturing infrastructure, and the Irwindale
facility will be closed, sold or otherwise disposed of.
The Company owns and operates several processing facilities to better
support its stores and realize additional profit opportunities. Products
processed by the Company are sold primarily through its own retail stores.
Dairies located in Portland, Oregon, Layton, Utah and Tolleson, Arizona process
a variety of milk, milk products and fruit beverages under the Company's private
labels. A bakery located in Portland, Oregon and a frozen dough plant located in
Layton, Utah process bakery products for in-stores bakeries. A cultured dairy
products plant in Layton, Utah produces yogurt, cottage cheese, sour cream, and
chip dip products. The ice cream processing plant in Layton, Utah supplies
stores with a wide variety of private label ice cream and novelty items.
Ralphs/Food 4 Less also owns and operates several processing facilities in
Southern California. Dairies located in Compton and Riverside process a variety
of milk, milk products and fruit beverages under Ralphs/Food 4 Less' private
labels. A bakery located in La Habra processes commercial bakery items and
processed products for sale in Ralphs/Food 4 Less stores. A commissary located
in Vernon produces selected delicatessen and home meal replacement items.
Hughes owns a 50% interest in Santee Dairies, Inc. ("Santee"), which
operates one of the largest dairy plants in California. Santee processes,
packages and distributes milk, as well as orange juice, fruit drinks and certain
cultured products under the Knudsen, Foremost and certain stores' brand names.
In 1997, Santee completed construction of a new dairy plant in the City of
Industry, California. The Company's management believes that the new facility
will increase Santee's capacity to process milk from approximately 250,000
gallons per day to approximately 350,000 gallons per day, with the ability to
expand capacity to approximately 500,000 gallons per day.
The Company expects to achieve improved operating efficiencies as a result
of the integration of the distribution
7
and manufacturing infrastructures of Ralphs/Food 4 Less and Hughes and Fred
Meyer Stores and QFC. The Company believes that its current distribution and
manufacturing facilities have the capacity to handle the Company's current
stores and stores expected to be opened during 1998. The Company's facilities
are capable of expansion to handle stores expected to be added over the next
several years. The Company currently plans to expand both the Chehalis and
Puyallup, Washington facilities in 1998.
The Company has made significant capital investments in its distribution
centers which, together with the management information systems ("MIS")
improvements, are designed to improve operations, permit better inventory
management and reduce distribution costs. The Company has established electronic
data interchange ("EDI") and automated replenishment programs with many vendors.
These quick response capabilities improve inventory management and reduce
handling of inventory in the distribution process, which results in lower
markdowns and lower distribution costs as a percentage of sales.
The Company believes that its distribution and related information systems
provide several additional advantages. First, they permit stores to maintain
proper inventory levels for items supplied through its central distribution
facilities. Second, centralized purchasing and distribution reduce the Company's
cost of merchandise and related transportation costs. Third, because
distribution can be made to stores frequently, the Company is able to reduce the
in-store stockroom space and maximize the square footage available for retail
selling.
Management Information Systems
The Company operates a centralized computer system which is linked to Fred
Meyer store and distribution facility operations through an upgraded network.
The Company is in the process of integrating Smith's and QFC operations into
this centralized system. Stores are supported by the latest technology in store
point-of-sale systems. Over the last several years, the Company has undertaken a
major modernization of its MIS capabilities. New merchandising and buying
systems have been installed, including the completion of the nonfood
merchandising system in 1997. Also in 1997, the Company completed the conversion
of its systems to a new mainframe computer, saving approximately $2.0 million
annually in computer operating costs. These upgraded systems position the
Company to leverage reduced operating costs while simultaneously integrating new
business functions. The Company believes these systems will support its growth
plans into the next century. The focus for 1998 and 1999 will be on Year 2000
processing capabilities, achieving merger-related synergies, and integrating the
processing for Smith's and QFC.
Ralphs/Food 4 Less also has a centralized computer system which is linked
to store and distribution operations. The Company is in the process of
integrating Hughes store and distribution operations into the Ralphs/Food 4 Less
computer systems.
Store Expansion and Development
The Company enlarges, remodels, closes or sells stores in light of their
past performance or the Company's assessment of their potential. The Company
continually evaluates its position in various market areas to determine whether
it should expand or consolidate its operations in those areas. New store sites
are determined based on a review of information on demographics and the
competitive environment for the market area in which a proposed site is located.
The Company's expansion focus is in existing areas of operation, primarily in or
near well-populated residential areas. The Company determines store size and
designs stores with a view toward making each store a very convenient store in
the area it serves. The Company is flexible in its store design where land sites
require specialized designs, such as two-level or smaller stores.
8
The following table sets forth store expansions and acquisitions for the
past three fiscal years and from January 31, 1998 to March 10, 1998.
Full Size Specialty and
Stores Jewelry Total
--------- ------------- --------
Balance at January 28, 1995 100 31 131
Open 6 3 9
Closed (4) (4)
------ ------ ------
Balance at February 3, 1996 102 34 136
Open 7 5 12
Acquired 71 71
------ ------ ------
Balance at February 1, 1997 109 110 219
Open 9 15 24
Closed (2) (6) (8)
Acquired 152 44 196
------ ------ ------
Balance at January 31, 1998 268 163 431
Open 1 1
Closed (1) (1)
Acquired 554 554
------ ------ ------
Balance at March 10, 1998 823 162 985
====== ====== ======
The Company currently plans to open 30 to 40 stores in 1998 and to remodel
40 to 60 stores.
Promotion and Advertising
The Company maintains separate promotion and advertising operations for
each of its subsidiary companies as dictated by geographical preferences and
product offerings. The Company promotes sales through weekly advertising,
primarily by local and area newspapers, radio, television and direct mail.
Advertising features many high-demand products at competitive sale prices. Some
advertising emphasizes low prices every day for some departments or items and
offers promotional pricing for other departments or items.
Competition
The retail merchandising business in general, and the supermarket industry
in particular, is highly competitive and generally characterized by narrow
profit margins. The Company's competitors in each of its operating divisions
include national and regional supermarket chains, discount stores, independent
and specialty grocers, drug and convenience stores, large category-dominant
stores and the newer "alternative format" food stores, including warehouse club
stores, deep discount drug stores, "supercenters" and conventional department
stores. The national competitors of the Company include, among others, Safeway,
Albertson's, Lucky, Costco, and Wal-Mart. Retail businesses generally compete on
the basis of location, quality of products and service, price, product variety
and store condition. The Company's ability to compete depends in part on its
ability to successfully maintain and remodel existing stores and develop new
stores in advantageous locations. The Company regularly monitors its
competitors' prices and adjusts its prices and marketing strategy as management
deems appropriate in light of existing conditions. The Company emphasizes
customer satisfaction, large selections of high-quality popular products and
competitive pricing. In addition, the Company believes that the convenience,
attractiveness and cleanliness of its stores, together with a sales staff
knowledgeable in specialty areas, enhances its retail sales effort and
competitive position.
Employees
At March 10, 1998, the Company had approximately 85,000 employees. The
Company is party to more than 166 collective bargaining agreements with local
unions covering approximately 58,000 employees representing approximately 70% of
the Company's total employees. Among the contracts that have expired or will
expire in 1998 are those covering 15,500 employees. Typical agreements are three
years in duration, and as such agreements expire, the Company expects to
negotiate with the unions and to enter into new collective bargaining
agreements. There can be no assurance, however, that such agreements will be
reached without work stoppages. A prolonged work stoppage affecting a
substantial number of stores could have a material adverse effect on the
Company's results of operations or financial position.
9
Item 2. Properties.
The following table sets forth certain information regarding the Company's
store base at March 10, 1998:
Number of Avg Sq
Principal Banners Stores Owned Leased Formats Footage Geographic Region
- ----------------------------- --------- ------- ------- ----------------------- ------- -----------------
Fred Meyer (1) 113 24 89 Multidepartment 145,700 Pacific Northwest
and Intermountain
Smith's Food & Drug Centers 156 113 43 Food and drug
Smitty's combination; 67,200 Southwest and
PriceRite multidepartment; Intermountain
price-impact
warehouse
QFC 89 9 80 Premium 35,400 Pacific Northwest
Ralphs (2) 320 61 259 Conventional 36,400 Southern California
Food 4 Less 80 5 75 Price-impact warehouse 52,600 Southern California
Other (3) 65 2 63 Conventional and price- 31,000 Midwest and
------ ------ ------ impact warehouse Northern California
TOTAL(4) 823 214 609
====== ====== ======
(1) Does not include 5 specialty stores and 157 jewelry stores.
(2) Includes Hughes Family Markets which will evenually be converted to
Ralphs. Fifteen of the owned stores are located on real property
subject to ground leases.
(3) Includes conventional and warehouse format stores operated by Ralphs/
Food 4 Less under the names Cala, Bell, Falley's and FoodsCo.
(4) Does not reflect the divestiture of 19 stores in Southern California
pursuant to a settlement agreement entered into with the State of
California in connection with the QFC and Ralphs/Food 4 Less mergers.
Approximately 77% of the Company's stores have been opened or
remodeled within the past seven years.
The Company owns additional facilities, including its corporate and Fred
Meyer Stores headquarters in Portland, Oregon, its Ralphs/Food 4 Less
headquarters in Compton, California, distribution and warehouse facilities in
Chehalis and Puyallup, Washington, Compton and Glendale, California, Layton,
Utah and Tolleson, Arizona, and Smith's distribution and administration
facilities in Salt Lake City, Utah, and leases other facilities, including QFC's
headquarters in Seattle, Washington and the Riverside, California distribution
facility.
Item 3. Legal Proceedings.
- --------------------------
The Company and its subsidiaries are parties to various legal claims,
actions and complaints which have arisen in the ordinary course of business.
Although the Company is unable to predict with certainty whether it will
ultimately be successful in these legal proceedings or, if not, what the impact
might be, management presently believes that disposition of these matters will
not have a material adverse effect on the Company's consolidated financial
position or consolidated results of operations.
In December 1992, three California state antitrust class action suits were
commenced in Los Angeles Superior Court against Ralphs Grocery Company, a wholly
owned subsidiary of Ralphs/Food 4 Less ("Ralphs") and other major supermarket
chains located in Southern California, alleging that they conspired to refrain
from competing in the retail market for fluid milk and to fix the retail price
of fluid milk above competitive prices. Specifically, class actions were
commenced by Diane Barela and Neila Ross, Ron Moliare and Paul C. Pfeifle on
December 7, December 14 and December 23, 1992, respectively. A class has been
certified consisting of all purchasers of milk in Los Angeles from December 7,
1988. The plaintiffs seek unspecified damages. All defendants in the actions,
including Ralphs, have reached tentative settlement agreements, and certain of
the settlements have been approved by the trial court. Ralphs is in the process
of finalizing a settlement agreement in the case.
On September 13, 1996 a class action lawsuit titled McCampbell, et al. v.
Ralphs Grocery Company, et al. was filed in the Superior Court of the State of
California, County of San Diego, against Ralphs and two other grocery store
10
chains operating in the Southern California area. The complaint alleges, among
other things, that Ralphs and others conspired to fix the retail price of eggs
in Southern California. The plaintiffs claim that the defendants' actions
violate provisions of the California Cartwright Act and constitute unfair
competition. The plaintiffs seek unspecified damages they purport to have
sustained as a result of the defendants' alleged actions, which damages may be
trebled under the applicable statute, and an injunction from future actions in
restraint of trade and unfair competition. Discovery has commenced and the
action has been certified as a class. Ralphs intends to defend this action
vigorously and Ralphs has filed an answer to the complaint denying the
plaintiffs' allegations and setting forth several defenses.
On December 20, 1996, a lawsuit titled Bundy, et al. v. Ralphs Grocery
Company, et al. was filed in the Los Angeles Superior Court against Ralphs. The
complaint was filed by eight individual plaintiffs who were terminated in
conjunction with Ralphs' 1995 restructuring. The plaintiffs claim that they were
wrongfully terminated for discriminatory reasons and that Ralphs engaged in
various fraudulent practices. The plaintiffs seek compensatory damages in excess
of $15 million, special and punitive damages. Management of the Company intends
to defend this action vigorously.
In August 1996, a lawsuit entitled Dianne Gober, et al. v. Ralphs was filed
alleging sexual harassment by a Ralphs store manager in San Diego County against
six female store employees. None of the plaintiffs suffered any loss of earnings
nor incurred any medical expenses or expenses for psychotherapy, but the Company
has recently been advised that the plaintiffs are, nevertheless, seeking
substantial compensatory and punitive damages. Plaintiffs have dismissed the
store manager as a defendant. The case began trial in April 1998. The Company
intends to defend the action vigorously.
Environmental Matters
Beginning in 1991, the California Regional Water Quality Control Board for
the Los Angeles Region (the "Regional Board") requested that Ralphs conduct
certain subsurface characterizations of the Glendale facility property located
near Glendale, California. Significant parts of the San Fernando Valley,
including the area where the Glendale facility is located, have been designated
federal Superfund sites requiring response actions under the Comprehensive
Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, as amended
("CERCLA"), because of regional groundwater contamination. Ralphs conducted the
requested investigations and reported the results to the Regional Board, and no
further investigations have been requested.
Beginning in 1991, the Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") has made
requests for information and issued orders directing more than 60 potentially
responsible parties ("PRPs") to investigate and remediate the groundwater
contamination in the San Fernando Valley. Ralphs is one of those PRPs. Among
those actions, on November 26, 1996, the EPA issued an Administrative Order for
Remedial Action (EPA Docket No. 97-06) against more than 60 respondents,
including Ralphs, in connection with the Superfund site. Under the order, these
PRPs are required to take certain actions in connection with the implementation
of interim remedies for the treatment of groundwater.
The Company's best estimate of Ralphs' likely costs is based on a 1996
engineering estimate to construct the groundwater extraction and treatment
system that was approved by EPA, adjusted by Ralphs' likely allocable share of
those costs. As of 1996, construction and capital costs were estimated at
$46,150,000. Operation and maintenance was estimated at $3,620,000 per year. In
addition, the PRPs have agreed to EPA's demand that the PRPs reimburse it for
its adjusted response costs. As of January 1997, EPA estimated those costs at
$12 million. Thus, the Company has estimated that the total costs to be paid by
all PRPs will be approximately $106 million stated in 1998 dollars. The
Company's best estimate of Ralphs' allocable share is based on a settlement
entered into by Glendale members of the PRP group in or about November 1997.
Based on that settlement, the Company expects Ralphs to pay 1.02 percent of the
total costs. Thus, the Company's current best estimate of Ralphs' likely
exposure is approximately $1 million.
Actual costs may end up being higher or lower than this estimate for a
number of reasons including, but not limited to: (1) one PRP has filed an appeal
that, if successful, could result in an increase in Ralphs' allocable
percentage; (2) the PRPs and EPA are currently negotiating the terms of a
Consent Decree, the terms of which may affect the total cost estimate; and (3)
EPA has now issued a Stop Work Order under its prior administrative order
requiring construction of the groundwater extraction and treatment system
because of current uncertainty whether the City of Glendale will be able to use
the treated water as a potable water supply.
Although responsibilities for compliance under federal CERCLA law are joint
and several, the Glendale PRPs include substantial companies as members, such
that the Company anticipates that the results of the PRPs' allocation process
will be enforceable to limit Ralphs' exposure.
Ralphs removed underground storage tanks and remediated soil contamination
at the Glendale facility property. In some instances, the removals and the
contamination were associated with grocery business operations; in others, they
were associated with prior property users. Ralphs has received correspondence
from the Regional Board confirming the successful completion of the remediation.
11
Apart from the Glendale facility, the Company and its subsidiaries have had
environmental assessments performed on most of its facilities, including
warehouse and distribution facilities. The Company believes that any responsive
actions required at the examined properties as a result of such assessments will
not have a material adverse effect on its financial condition or results of
operations.
The Company is subject to a variety of environmental laws, rules,
regulations and investigative or enforcement activities, as are other companies
in the same or similar businesses. The Company believes it is in substantial
compliance with such laws, rules and regulations. These laws, rules, regulations
and agency activities change from time to time, and such changes may affect the
ongoing business and operations of the Company.
12
Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.
- ------------------------------------------------------------
Not applicable
Item 4A. Executive Officers of the Registrant.
- ----------------------------------------------
The executive officers of the Company are as set forth below.
Name Position Age
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Robert G. Miller President and Chief Executive Officer 54
Mary F. Sammons President and Chief Executive Officer of Fred Meyer Stores 50
George E. Golleher President and Chief Executive Officer of Ralphs/Food 4 Less 49
Dan Kourkoumelis President and Chief Executive Officer of QFC 46
Abel T. Porter President and Chief Executive Officer of Smith's 39
Kenneth Thrasher Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer 47
Kenneth A. Martindale Executive Vice President, Purchasing 38
Tony Schnug Executive Vice President, Distribution and Manufacturing 53
David R. Jessick Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer 44
Roger A. Cooke Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary 49
The executive officers of the Company are elected annually for one year and
hold office until their successors are elected and qualified. There are no
family relationships among the executive officers of the Company.
Mr. Miller became President in April 1997 and has been Chief Executive
Officer of the Company since 1991. He was Chairman of the Board from August 1991
to July 1997. Prior to that time he was employed by Albertson's, where his most
recent positions were Executive Vice President of Retail Operations from 1989 to
1991 and Senior Vice President and Regional Manager from 1985 to 1989.
Ms. Sammons became President and Chief Executive Officer of Fred Meyer
Stores in January 1998. Prior to that time she was Executive Vice President -
Nonfood Group of Fred Meyer. Ms. Sammons joined the Company in 1973 and became a
buyer in 1975. She was promoted to Vice President and Merchandiser in 1980,
Senior Vice President of the Softgoods Division in 1989 and Senior Vice
President of Apparel and Home Electronics in 1995.
Mr. Golleher became President of Ralphs/Food 4 Less in March 1998 and has
been Chief Executive Officer of Ralphs/Food 4 Less since January 1996. He was
Vice Chairman from June 1995 to January 1996. He was a Director of Food 4 Less
Supermarkets from its inception in 1989 and was the President and Chief
Operating Officer of Food 4 Less Supermarkets from January 1990 until June 1995.
From 1986 through 1989, Mr. Golleher served as Senior Vice President - Finance
and Administration of The Boys Markets, Inc.
Mr. Kourkoumelis was appointed Executive Vice President of QFC in 1983,
Chief Operating Officer in 1987, President in 1989 and Chief Executive Officer
in September 1996. In late May 1997, Mr. Kourkoumelis was appointed President
and Chief Executive Officer of Hughes.
Mr. Porter has been President and Chief Executive Officer of Smith's since
January 1998. Prior to that time, he was Senior Vice President and Regional
Manager for Smith's, a position which he also held from 1990 to 1993. In the
years prior to this appointment, Mr. Porter worked in both the Intermountain and
Southwest regions in several positions.
Mr. Thrasher became Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative
Officer in January 1997. Prior to that time, he was Senior Vice President,
Finance and Chief Financial Officer from March 1989 until January 1997, Vice
President, Finance, Chief Financial Officer and Secretary from 1987 until 1989
and Vice President, Corporate Treasurer from 1982 until 1987.
Mr. Martindale has been Executive Vice President of Purchasing and
Procurement since January 1998. Prior to that time, Mr. Martindale was Senior
Vice President of Sales and Procurement of Smith's. He served as Vice President
of Merchandising in Smith's California region from 1991 to 1995. From 1984 to
1991, he served as a district manager for Smith's Intermountain region.
Mr. Schnug has been Executive Vice President, Distribution and
Manufacturing since March 1998. Prior to that
13
time, Mr. Schnug was Group Senior Vice President, Support Operations of Ralphs
Grocery Company since January 1996. He served as Senior Vice President,
Manufacturing and Construction from June 1995 to January 1996. From 1992 to June
1995, he served as Senior Vice President, Corporate Operations of Food 4 Less
Supermarkets, Inc.
Mr. Jessick became Senior Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial
Officer in January 1997. Prior to that time, he was employed by Thrifty PayLess
Holdings Inc., where his most recent positions were Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer from 1994 to 1996 and Senior Vice President, Finance and
Chief Financial Officer from 1990 until 1994.
Mr. Cooke became Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary in
April 1993. Prior to that time he was Vice President, General Counsel and
Secretary of the Company from August 1992 until April 1993. From 1982 to 1992,
he was an officer of Pan American World Airways, Inc., serving as Senior Vice
President and General Counsel from 1990 to 1992. From 1973 to 1980, he was
associated with the law firm Simpson Thacher and Bartlett.
14
Part II
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Item 5. Market for the Registrant's Common Stock and Related
Stockholder Matters.
- ------------------------------------------------------------
Common Stock Information
The Company's common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE)
under the symbol "FMY." At April 24, 1998, the Company had approximately 7,000
stockholders of record.
The Company has not paid dividends since the incorporation of its
predecessor in 1981, and it is the current policy of the Board of Directors that
all available cash flow be used for reinvestment in the business of the Company
and for the reduction of debt.
Price Ranges of Common Stock (1)
----------------------------------------------------------------------
1997 1996 1995
Fiscal Quarter High Low High Low High Low
- ---------------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
First $23 1/2 $16 13/16 $14 15/16 $11 1/8 $16 11/16 $11 3/4
Second 28 15/16 22 16 13 1/16 14 1/2 11 3/4
Third 33 1/2 25 18 13/16 14 3/8 13 7/16 9 5/16
Fourth 37 3/4 25 18 3/8 14 15/16 11 13/16 8 11/16
1 Prices have been adjusted for a two-for-one stock split distributed on
September 30, 1997.
15
Item 6. Selected Financial Data.
- --------------------------------
Since the Company acquired QFC and Ralphs/Food 4 Less in March 1998, which
was subsequent to the Company's most recent financial information, the following
selected financial data does not include any results of operations of QFC or
Ralphs/Food 4 Less. See Notes 3 and 13 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial
Statements under Item 8.
Fiscal Year Ended
------------------------------------------------------------------
(In thousands, except per share data, January 31, February 1, February 3, January 28, January 29,
percentages and number of stores) 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Income Statement Data
Net sales $5,481,087 $3,724,839 $3,422,718 $3,122,635 $2,973,825
Gross margin (1) 1,635,551 1,105,527 973,514 861,320 885,257
Operating and administrative expenses 1,386,278 971,667 885,087 807,924 747,151
Writedown of California assets 15,978
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Income from operations (1) 249,273 133,860 88,427 37,418 138,106
Interest expense 75,504 39,432 39,578 25,857 17,604
Provision for income taxes (2) 70,465 35,883 18,563 4,393 49,598
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Income before extraordinary
charge/accounting change (1,2) 103,304 58,545 30,286 7,168 70,904
Extraordinary charge/accounting
change (3,4) (91,210) (2,588)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Net income (1,2) $ 12,094 $ 58,545 $ 30,286 $ 7,168 $ 68,316
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Basic earnings per common share:
Income before extraordinary
charge/accounting change (1,2) $ 1.54 $ 1.12 $ 0.57 $ 0.14 $ 1.37
Extraordinary charge/accounting
change (3,4) (1.36) (0.05)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Net income (1,2) $ 0.18 $ 1.12 $ 0.57 $ 0.14 $ 1.32
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Diluted earnings per common share:
Income before extraordinary
charge/accounting change (1,2) $ 1.46 $ 1.05 $ 0.53 $ 0.13 $ 1.25
Extraordinary charge/accounting
change (3,4) (1.29) (0.04)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Net income (1,2) $ 0.17 $ 1.05 $ 0.53 $ 0.13 $ 1.21
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Balance Sheet Data
Working capital $ 414,691 $ 233,202 $ 283,082 $ 249,514 $ 192,737
Total assets 4,430,806 1,692,020 1,669,753 1,562,672 1,326,076
Long-term debt 1,835,168 521,512 656,260 540,166 321,398
Stockholders' equity 1,350,575 565,904 569,395 538,620 527,686
Other Data
EBITDA (as defined) (5) 413,645 249,548 194,876 148,979 205,673
EBITDA margin (6) 7.5% 6.7% 5.7% 4.8% 6.9%
Percent of net sales:
Nonfood sales 32.6% 41.0% 41.9% 45.8% 47.4%
Food sales 67.4% 59.0% 58.1% 54.2% 52.6%
Income before extraordinary
charge/accounting change 1.9% 1.6% 0.9% 0.2% 2.4%
Comparable store sales (7,8,9) 7.4% 3.8% 2.1% (2.0%) 2.4%
Number of stores at year end 431 219 136 131 127
Total retail square feet at year end 26,802 15,935 14,857 14,194 13,423
16
1. For fiscal year ended January 29, 1994, includes a nonrecurring LIFO
credit of $6.2 million.
2. For fiscal year ended January 29, 1994, includes $3.6 million from the
resolution of an IRS audit ($2.3 million) related to the LIFO credit
and a 38% tax rate.
3. For fiscal year ended January 29, 1994, effect of adopting SFAS No.
109 relating to income taxes.
4. For fiscal year ended Janaury 31, 1998, charge for early
extinguishment of debt covering premiums paid and write-off of
financing costs related to debt refinanced in the Smith's Acquisition.
5. EBITDA represents income before interest expense, income taxes,
depreciation and amortization expenses and LIFO provision/(credit).
6. EBITDA margin represents EBITDA as a percentage of net sales.
7. Includes only sales of stores operating throughout each of the periods
compared.
8. The calculation for comparable store sales for the year ended February
1, 1997 is computed on a 52-week basis for both years.
9. The calculation for comparable store sales for the year ended February
3, 1996, a 53-week year, is computed by adding a 53rd week to 1994's
sales base.
Item 7. Management's Discussion and Analysis
of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
- -------------------------------------------------
Overview
On September 9, 1997, Fred Meyer, Inc. succeeded to the businesses of Fred
Meyer, Inc., now known as Fred Meyer Stores, Inc. ("Fred Meyer Stores"), and
Smith's Food & Drug Centers, Inc. ("Smith's") as a result of mergers pursuant to
the Agreement and Plan of Reorganization and Merger, dated as of May 11, 1997
(the "Smith's Acquisition"). At the closing, Fred Meyer Stores and Smith's, a
regional supermarket and drug store chain operating 152 stores in the
Intermountain and Southwestern regions of the United States, became wholly owned
subsidiaries of the Company. The Company issued 33.3 million shares of Common
Stock of the Company for all outstanding shares of Common Stock of Smith's.
The Smith's Acquisition was accounted for under the purchase method of
accounting. Accordingly, the results for 1997 reflect only 21 weeks of
operations from the Smith's stores. As a result of the purchase, the assets and
liabilities of Smith's have been recorded at their fair value as of September 9,
1997. The purchase price in excess of the fair value of Smith's assets and
liabilities is recorded as goodwill and is being amortized over a 40-year
period. See Note 3 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements of the
Company included elsewhere herein.
The Company used the proceeds from a new bank credit facility (the "1997
Senior Credit Facility") to refinance debt assumed in the Smith's Acquisition
and to repay a substantial portion of the Company's existing indebtedness. The
1997 Senior Credit Facility provided a five year $1.03 billion revolving credit
facility, a $500.0 million 364-day revolving credit facility and a five year
$500.0 million bridge facility. As a result of prepaying certain indebtedness,
the Company recorded an extraordinary charge, net of taxes, of $91.2 million
consisting of fees incurred in the prepayment and the write-off of debt issuance
costs.
On August 17, 1997, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets
and liabilities of Fox Jewelry Company ("Fox"), a regional jewelry store chain
operating 44 stores, in exchange for common stock with a fair value of $9.2
million. The Fox acquisition was accounted for under the purchase method of
accounting. Accordingly, the results for 1997 reflect only 24 weeks of
operations from the Fox stores.
In March 1998, the Company acquired Quality Food Centers, Inc. ("QFC") and
Food 4 Less Holdings, Inc. ("Ralphs/Food 4 Less") in separate mergers, and QFC
and Ralphs/Food 4 Less became wholly owned subsidiaries of the Company. These
mergers occurred after the end of the Company's fiscal year ended January 31,
1998 and are not reflected in the financial statements of the Company included
herein and discussed below. In connection with these mergers, substantially all
of the debt of the Company and these companies was refinanced. See Note 13 of
the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements under Item 8.
The following discussion summarizes the Company's operating results for the
fiscal year ended January 31, 1998 ("1997") compared with the fiscal year ended
February 1, 1997 ("1996") and for 1996 compared with the fiscal year ended
February 3, 1996 ("1995"). Also included are discussions of the Company's
liquidity, capital resources, effect of LIFO, effect of inflation and recent
accounting changes. This discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction
with the Company's consolidated financial statements.
Results of Operations -- 1997 Compared with 1996
Net sales for 1997 (52 weeks) increased $1.76 billion, or 47.2%, over 1996
(52 weeks). Sales from the Smith's
17
stores accounted for $1.3 billion of the increase, including four new stores
added during the period since the Smith's Acquisition. The increase also
reflects the openings of five full-size multidepartment Fred Meyer stores.
Comparable store sales (excluding Smith's) increased 7.4% for 1997. Comparable
food sales (excluding Smith's) increased 6.6%, and comparable nonfood sales
(excluding Smith's) increased 8.6%. Food sales as a percent of net sales were
67.4% and 59.0%, respectively, for 1997 and 1996.
Gross margin as a percent of net sales was 29.8% in 1997 compared with
29.7% in 1996. Gross margins increased primarily due to the increase in sales of
higher margin non-food merchandise.
Operating and administrative expenses increased 42.7% to $1,386.3 million
in 1997 from $971.7 million in 1996, and as a percent of net sales were 25.3% in
1997 and 26.1% in 1996. Operating and administrative expenses decreased as a
percent of sales primarily due to the lower operating and administrative costs
as a percent of sales at Smith's. Amortization of goodwill increased to $10.5
million in 1997 from $308,000 in 1996 as a result of goodwill recorded in the
Smith's Acquisition.
Net interest expense increased to $75.5 million in 1997 from $39.4 million
in 1996. The increase primarily reflects the increased amount of indebtedness
incurred in conjunction with the Smith's Acquisition.
The effective tax rate was 40.6% for 1997 and 38.0% for 1996. The increase
in the effective tax rate results from the increase in amortization of goodwill
which is not deductible for tax purposes.
Income before extraordinary charge was $103.3 million for 1997 and $58.5
million for 1996. This increase is primarily the result of the above-mentioned
factors.
The extraordinary charge of $91.2 million recorded in the third quarter of
1997 consists of fees incurred in the prepayment of certain indebtedness and
write-off of debt issuance costs.
Net income was $12.1 million for 1997 and $58.5 million for 1996. This
decrease is primarily the result of the increase in income before extraordinary
charge offset by the extraordinary charge.
Results of Operations -- 1996 Compared with 1995
Net sales for 1996 (52 weeks) increased $302.1 million, or 8.8%, over 1995
(53 weeks). This increase reflects openings of five full-size multidepartment
stores, two marketplace stores, and five jewelry stores in malls and the
acquisition of 71 mall jewelry stores. Comparable store sales, measured on a
52-week corresponding period for both years, increased 3.8% for 1996. Comparable
food sales increased 5.8%, and comparable nonfood sales increased 1.0%. Food
sales as a percent of net sales were 59.0% and 58.1%, respectively for 1996 and
1995.
Gross margin as a percent of net sales was 29.7% in 1996 compared with
28.4% in 1995. Gross margins increased primarily due to significant reductions
in markdowns in 1996 versus 1995, the effects of increased sales of
higher-margin jewelry, primarily from the 71 acquired fine jewelry stores, and
lower distribution costs as a percent of sales.
Operating and administrative expenses increased 9.8% to $971.7 million in
1996 from $885.1 million in 1995, and as a percent of net sales were 26.1% in
1996 and 25.9% in 1995. Operating and administrative expenses increased as a
percent of sales due to the higher expense structure at the fine jewelry stores
and increased wages for additional staffing in some nonfood sections of the
multidepartment stores. These increases were partially offset by reduced
advertising expense as a percent of sales.
Net interest expense decreased to $39.4 million in 1996 from $39.6 million
in 1995. The decrease primarily reflects lower borrowings due to the impact of
the Company's third quarter $108.0 million sale-leaseback of 10 stores and to
improved cash flow from operations, offset in part by the third quarter
repurchase of $70.0 million of common stock.
The effective tax rate was 38.0% for both 1996 and 1995.
Net income was $58.5 million for 1996 and $30.3 million for 1995. This
increase is primarily the result of the above-mentioned factors.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
The Company funded its working capital and capital expenditure needs in
1997 through internally generated cash flow and the issuance of unrated
commercial paper, supplemented by borrowings under committed and uncommitted
bank lines of credit and lease facilities.
In conjunction with the Smith's Acquisition, the Company entered into a new
bank credit facility on September 9, 1997 that refinanced a substantial portion
of the indebtedness of Fred Meyer Stores and Smith's. The Company entered into a
five-year $1.03 billion revolving credit facility, a $500.0 million 364-day
revolving credit facility, and a five-year $500.0 million bridge facility, each
guaranteed by the accompanying subsidiaries (including Smith's and Fred Meyer
Stores). In addition to the committed 1997 Senior Credit Facility, at January
31, 1998, the Company had $125.0 million of uncommitted money market lines with
four banks and $500.0 million in unrated commercial paper facilities with three
banks. The uncommitted money market lines and unrated commercial paper are used
primarily for seasonal inventory
18
requirements, new store construction and financing existing store remodeling,
acquisition of land, and major projects such as management information systems.
At January 31, 1998, the Company had borrowings under the 1997 Senior Credit
Facility of $1.746 billion which includes outstanding unrated commercial paper
in the amount of $367.2 million and borrowings under uncommitted money market
lines of $79.0 million. A total of approximately $283.8 million was available
for borrowings under the 1997 Senior Credit Facility, and $46.0 million was
available for borrowings from the uncommitted money market lines. In addition to
the 1997 Senior Credit Facility, the Company entered into two lease lines of
credit for various stores and a distribution center. On September 9, 1997, Fred
Meyer Stores entered into a lease financing facility of up to $270.0 million,
which refinanced approximately $229.0 million in existing operating leases. The
balance of this facility was planned for financing of construction costs on
three new stores. On January 27, 1998, Fred Meyer Stores entered into a lease
financing facility for $53.0 million for various stores.
The Company has entered into interest rate swap, cap and collar agreements
to reduce the impact of changes in interest rates on its floating rate long-term
debt and rent expense on its lease lines of credit. At January 31, 1998, the
Company had outstanding four interest rate contracts for a total notional amount
of $180.0 million, and seven rent rate contracts, for a total notional amount of
$80.0 million. The interest rate contracts effectively fix the Company's
interest rates between 5.0% and 9.0% on the notional amount and expire through
1999. The rent rate contracts effectively fix the Company's rental rates between
6.28% and 7.25% on the notional amount and expire through 2000. All contracts
are with "A" rated or better commercial banks and the Company does not
anticipate nonperformance by the counter parties. The Company is exposed to
credit loss in the event of nonperformance by the counterparties to the interest
rate and rent rate agreements.
On March 11, 1998 and in conjunction with the acquisition of Ralphs/Food 4
Less and QFC, the Company entered into new financing arrangements (the "1998
Senior Credit Facilities") which included a public issue of $1.75 billion of
senior unsecured notes and bank credit facilities which include a $1.875 billion
five-year revolving credit agreement and a $1.625 billion five-year term loan.
The term loan amortization is scheduled over five years with $18.75 million due
in fiscal year 1998; $118.75 million in fiscal year 1999; $225.0 million in
fiscal year 2000; $362.5 million in fiscal year 2001; $475.0 million in fiscal
year 2002; and $425.0 million in fiscal year 2003. In addition to the 1998
Senior Credit Facilities, the Company entered into a $500 million five-year
operating lease facility, which refinanced $303 million in existing lease
financing facilities. The balance of this lease facility will be used for land
and construction costs for new stores. The senior unsecured notes which were
part of a $2.5 billion shelf registration were issued on March 11, 1998 with
$250 million of five-year notes at 7.15%, $750 million of seven-year notes at
7.38% and $750 million of ten-year notes at 7.45%. The 1998 Senior Credit
Facilities contain certain restrictions on payments by the Company of cash
dividends, repurchase of common stock, the handling of proceeds from the sale or
disposition of assets, other than in the normal course of business, and require,
among other things, that the Company maintain a maximum leverage ratio and a
minimum fixed charge ratio. The leverage ratio compares debt to earnings before
interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA"). The fixed charge
ratio compares EBITDA to interest expense. The obligations of the Company under
the senior unsecured notes are guaranteed by certain subsidiaries. The
obligations of the Company under the 1998 Senior Credit Facilities are
guaranteed by certain subsidiaries and are also collateralized by the stock of
certain subsidiaries.
The Company had $16.5 million of outstanding Letters of Credit as of
January 31, 1998. The Letters of Credit are used to support the importation of
goods and to support the performance, payment, deposit or surety obligations of
the Company. The Company pays annual commitment fees ranging form .04% to 1.00%
on the outstanding portion of these Letters of Credit.
The Company believes that the combination of cash flows from operations and
borrowings under its credit facilities will permit it to finance its capital
expenditure requirements for 1998, currently budgeted to be approximately $600
million, net of estimated real estate sales and stores financed on leases. If
the Company determines that it is preferable, it may fund its capital
expenditure requirements by mortgaging facilities, entering into sale/leaseback
transactions, or by issuing additional debt or equity. The Company currently
owns real estate with a net book value of approximately $1.4 billion.
Effect of LIFO
During each year, the Company estimates the LIFO adjustment for the year
based on estimates of three factors: inflation rates (calculated by reference to
the Department Stores Inventory Price Index published by the Bureau of Labor
Statistics for soft goods and jewelry and to internally generated indices based
on Company purchases during the year for all other departments), expected
inventory levels, and expected markup levels (after reflecting permanent
markdowns and cash discounts). At year end, the Company makes the final
adjustment reflecting the difference between the Company's prior quarterly
estimates and actual LIFO amount for the year.
19
Effect of Inflation
While management believes that some portion of the increase in sales is due
to inflation, it is difficult to segregate and to measure the effects of
inflation because of changes in the types of merchandise sold year-to-year and
other pricing and competitive influences. By attempting to control costs and
efficiently utilize resources, the Company strives to minimize the effects of
inflation on its operations.
Recent Accounting Changes
There are no issued and pending accounting changes which are expected to
have a material effect on the Company's financial reporting.
Year 2000
The Company has performed an analysis and is modifying its computer
software to address the year 2000 issues. The Company is also contacting major
suppliers to determine the extent to which the Company may be vulnerable to
third party year 2000 issues. Based on current information, management believes
that all software modifications necessary to operate and effectively manage the
Company will be performed by the year 2000 and that related costs will not have
a material impact on the results of operations, cash flow, or financial
condition of future periods.
Forward-looking Statements; Factors Affecting Future Results
Certain information set forth in this report contains "forward-looking
statements" within the meaning of federal securities laws. These forward-looking
statements include information regarding the Company's plans for future
operations, expectations relating to cost savings and the Company's integration
strategy with respect to its recent mergers, store expansion and remodeling,
capital expenditures, inventory reductions and expense reduction. The Company
may make other forward-looking statements from time to time. The following
factors, as well as those discussed below, are among the principal factors that
could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking
statements: business and economic conditions generally and in the regions in
which the Company's stores are located, including the rate of inflation;
population, employment and job growth in the Company's markets; demands placed
on management by the substantial increase in the Company's size; loss or
retirement of senior management of the Company or of its principal operating
subsidiaries; changes in the availability of debt or equity capital and
increases in borrowing costs or interest rates, especially since a substantial
portion of the Company's borrowings bear interest at floating rates; competitive
factors, such as increased penetration in the Company's markets by large
national food and nonfood chains, large category-dominant stores and large
national and regional discount retailers (whether existing competitors or new
entrants) and competitive pressures generally, which could include price-cutting
strategies, store openings and remodels; results of the Company's programs to
decrease costs as a percent of sales; increases in labor costs and deterioration
in relations with the union bargaining units representing the Company's
employees; unusual unanticipated costs or unanticipated consequences relating to
the recent mergers and integration strategy and any delays in the realization
thereof; adverse determinations by federal or state regulatory authorities,
including adverse determinations in connection with the recent mergers or other
acquisitions; operational inefficiencies in distribution or other Company
systems, including any that may result from the recent mergers; issues arising
from addressing year 2000 computer issues; legislative or regulatory changes
adversely affecting the business in which the companies are engaged; and other
opportunities or acquisitions which may be pursued by the Company.
Leverage; Ability to Service Debt. The Company is highly leveraged. As of
March 11, 1998, the Company has total indebtedness (including current maturities
and capital lease obligations) of $5.3 billion. Total indebtedness consists of
long-term debt, including borrowings under the 1998 Senior Credit Facilities,
notes and capitalized leases. Total indebtedness does not reflect certain
commitments and contingencies of the Company, including operating leases under
the lease facility and other operating lease obligations. The Company has
significant interest and principal repayment obligations and significant rental
payment obligations, and the ability of the Company to satisfy such obligations
is subject to prevailing economic, financial and business conditions and to
other factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. A significant
amount of the Company's borrowings and rental obligations bear interest at
floating rates (including borrowings under the 1998 Senior Credit Facilities and
obligations under the lease facility), which will expose the Company to the risk
of increased interest and rental rates.
Merger Integration. The significant increase in size of the Company's
operations resulting from the recent mergers has substantially increased the
demands placed upon the Company's management, including demands resulting from
the need to integrate the accounting systems, management information systems,
distribution systems, manufacturing facilities and other operations of Fred
Meyer Stores, Smith's, QFC and Ralphs/Food 4 Less. In addition, the Company
could experience unexpected costs from such integration and/or a loss of
customers or sales as a result of
20
the recent mergers, including as a result of the conversion of the Hughes Family
Markets banner to Ralphs. There can also be no assurance that the Company will
be able to maintain the levels of operating efficiency which Fred Meyer Stores,
Smith's, QFC and Ralphs/Food 4 Less had achieved separately prior to the
mergers. The failure to successfully integrate the operations of the acquired
businesses, the loss of key management personnel and the loss of customers or
sales could each have a material adverse effect on the Company's results of
operations or financial position.
Ability to Achieve Intended Benefits of the Recent Mergers. Management
believes that significant business opportunities and cost savings are achievable
as a result of the Smith's, QFC and Ralphs/Food 4 Less mergers. Management's
estimates of cost savings are based upon many assumptions including future sales
levels and other operating results, the availability of funds for capital
expenditures, the timing of certain events as well as general industry, and
business conditions and other matters, many of which are beyond the control of
the Company. Estimates are also based on a management consensus as to what
levels of purchasing and similar efficiencies should be achievable by an entity
the size of the Company. Estimates of potential cost savings are forward-looking
statements that are inherently uncertain. Actual cost savings, if any, could
differ from those projected and such differences could be material; therefore,
undue reliance should not be placed upon such estimates. There can be no
assurance that unforeseen costs and expenses or other factors (whether arising
in connection with the integration of the Company's operations or otherwise)
will not offset the estimated cost savings or other components of the Company's
plan or result in delays in the realization of certain projected cost savings.
Competition. Information regarding intense competition in the retail
merchandising industry is set forth under Item 1.
Labor Relations. Information regarding employees and labor matters is set
forth under Item 1.
Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date made. The Company
undertakes no obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions to any
forward-looking statements which may be made to reflect subsequent events or
circumstances or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.
Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
- --------------------------------------------------------------------
Not applicable.
21
Item 8. Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
- ----------------------------------------------------
Consolidated Statements of Income
Fiscal Year Ended
-----------------------------------------
January 31, February 1, February 3,
(In thousands, except per share data) 1998 1997 1996
----------- ----------- -----------
Net sales $ 5,481,087 $ 3,724,839 $ 3,422,718
Cost of goods sold:
General 3,845,536 2,613,746 2,443,531
Related party lease (Note 4) 5,566 5,673
----------- ----------- -----------
Total cost of goods sold 3,845,536 2,619,312 2,449,204
----------- ----------- -----------
Gross margin 1,635,551 1,105,527 973,514
Operating and administrative expenses:
General 1,334,087 920,405 829,178
Related party leases (Notes 4 and 8) 41,709 50,954 55,601
Amortization of goodwill 10,482 308 308
----------- ----------- -----------
Total operating and administrative expenses 1,386,278 971,667 885,087
----------- ----------- -----------
Income from operations 249,273 133,860 88,427
Interest expense 75,504 39,432 39,578
----------- ----------- -----------
Income before income taxes and extraordinary charge 173,769 94,428 48,849
Provision for income taxes (Note 6) 70,465 35,883 18,563
----------- ----------- -----------
Income before extraordinary charge 103,304 58,545 30,286
Extraordinary charge, net of taxes (91,210)
----------- ----------- -----------
Net income $ 12,094 $ 58,545 $ 30,286
=========== =========== ===========
Basic earnings per common share:
Income before extraordinary charge $ 1.54 $ 1.12 $ 0.57
Extraordinary charge (1.36)
Net income $ 0.18 $ 1.12 $ 0.57
=========== =========== ===========
Basic weighted average number of common
shares outstanding 67,168 52,155 53,365
=========== =========== ===========
Diluted earnings per common share:
Income before extraordinary charge $ 1.46 $ 1.05 $ 0.53
Extraordinary charge (1.29)
----------- ----------- -----------
Net income $ 0.17 $ 1.05 $ 0.53
=========== =========== ===========
Diluted weighted average number of common and
common equivalent shares outstanding 70,609 55,781 56,656
=========== =========== ===========
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
22
Consolidated Balance Sheets
January 31, February 1,
(In thousands) 1998 1997
---------- ----------
Assets
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 72,609 $ 48,769
Receivables 83,194 23,729
Inventories 1,117,989 604,910
Prepaid expenses and other 50,034 43,149
Current portion of deferred taxes (Note 6) 90,804 17,226
---------- ----------
Total current assets 1,414,630 737,783
Property and equipment:
Buildings, fixtures and equipment 2,301,304 1,397,872
Property held under capital leases (Note 8) 42,121 17,523
Land 368,105 139,474
---------- ----------
Total property and equipment 2,711,530 1,554,869
Less accumulated depreciation and amortization 759,780 625,104
---------- ----------
Property and equipment--net 1,951,750 929,765
Other assets:
Goodwill--net 1,005,476 4,599
Other 58,950 19,873
---------- ----------
Total other assets 1,064,426 24,472
---------- ----------
Total assets $4,430,806 $1,692,020
========== ==========
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
23
Consolidated Balance Sheets
January 31, February 1,
(In thousands, except per share data) 1998 1997
---------- ----------
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
Current liabilities:
Bank overdrafts $ 140,813 $ 112,991
Accounts payable 538,799 285,439
Current portion of long-term debt and lease obligations (Notes 5 and 8) 4,282 1,038
Income taxes payable 5,115
Accrued expenses:
Compensation 148,141 58,347
Insurance and other 167,904 41,651
---------- ----------
Total current liabilities 999,939 504,581
Long-term debt (Note 5) 1,835,168 521,512
Capital lease obligations (Note 8) 52,385 13,227
Deferred lease transactions (Note 8) 38,556 46,318
Deferred income taxes (Note 6) 41,250 35,176
Other long-term liabilities (Note 10) 112,933 5,302
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 8 and 12)
Stockholders' equity (Note 7):
Preferred stock, $.01 par value (authorized, 100,000 shares in 1997 and
5,000 shares in 1996; outstanding, none)
Common stock, $.01 par value (authorized, 400,000 shares
in 1997 and 200,000 shares in 1996; issued 88,790 shares
in 1997 and 56,808 shares in 1996; outstanding 88,790 shares
in 1997 and 52,408 shares in 1996) 888 573
Additional paid-in capital 904,235 203,028
Treasury stock (4,400 shares in 1996) (69,773)
Notes receivable from officers (298) (1,394)
Unearned compensation (466) (652)
Retained earnings 446,216 434,122
---------- ----------
Total stockholders' equity 1,350,575 565,904
---------- ----------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity $4,430,806 $1,692,020
========== ==========
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
24
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Fiscal Year Ended
--------------------------------------------
January 31, February 1, February 3,
(In thousands) 1998 1997 1996
---------- ---------- ----------
Cash flows from operating activities:
Income before extraordinary charge $ 103,304 $ 58,545 $ 30,286
Adjustments to reconcile income before extraordinary
charge to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization of property and equipment 158,147 116,546 107,077
Amortization of goodwill 10,482 308 308
Deferred lease transactions (15,833) (4,944) (3,384)
Deferred income taxes 16,304 9,182 1,626
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Inventories (99,796) (84,355) (6,082)
Other current assets 9,065 (17,714) 13,705
Accounts payable 18,006 91,545 (36,809)
Accrued expenses (19,260) 13,665 7,919
Income taxes 36,663 895 20,138
Other liabilities 6,713 (2,682) (2,085)
Other (13,133) (14,110) 613
---------- ---------- ----------
Net cash provided by operating activities 210,662 166,881 133,312
---------- ---------- ----------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Cash acquired in acquisitions 57,868
Payment of acquisition costs (30,845)
Net sales of investment securities 12,340 1,110
Purchases of property and equipment (269,176) (146,917) (236,052)
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment 68,252 123,352 10,783
---------- ---------- ----------
Net cash used for investing activities (173,901) (11,225) (224,159)
---------- ---------- ----------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Issuance of common stock - net 30,079 6,861 2,018
Stock repurchase and related expenses (70,099)
Collection of notes receivable 3,062 794 515
Increase in notes receivable (1,447) (857) (2,391)
Increase (decrease) in bank overdrafts (21,153) 49,814 (18,162)
Long-term financing:
Borrowings 1,463,457 158,500
Repayments (1,486,919) (135,249) (42,652)
---------- ---------- ----------
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities (12,921) (148,736) 97,828
---------- ---------- ----------
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents for the year 23,840 6,920 6,981
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 48,769 41,849 34,868
---------- ---------- ----------
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year $ 72,609 $ 48,769 $ 41,849
========== ========== ==========
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
25
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity
Common Stock Treasury Stock
------------------ --------------------
Number Additional Number
of Paid-in of Retained
(In thousands) Shares Amount Capital Shares Amount Other Earnings Total
--------- ------- ---------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ----------
Balance at January 28, 1995 26,568 $ 268 $ 193,317 $ (256) $ 345,291 $ 538,620
Two-for-one stock split (Note 7) 26,568 268 (268) ---
Issuance of common stock:
Stock options exercised 274 3 2,015 2,018
Tax benefits from stock options 260 260
Amortization of unearned compensation 50 50
Notes receivable from officers (1,839) (1,839)
Net income 30,286 30,286
--------- ------- ---------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ----------
Balance at February 3, 1996 53,410 539 195,324 --- --- (2,045) 375,577 569,395
Issuance/purchase of common stock:
Stock options exercised 3,378 34 7,227 7,261
Stock bonus 20 166 (566) (400)
Treasury stock (326) 4,400 $ (69,773) (70,099)
Tax benefits from stock options 637 637
Amortization of unearned compensation 120 120
Payment on notes receivable from officers 445 445
Net income 58,545 58,545
--------- ------- ---------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ----------
Balance at February 1, 1997 56,808 573 203,028 4,400 (69,773) (2,046) 434,122 565,904
Issuance of common stock:
Stock options exercised 2,738 27 30,081 1 (29) 30,079
Stock bonus 12 238 (238) ---
Tax benefits from stock options 11,120 11,120
Fox acquisition 332 3 9,201 9,204
Smith's acquisition 33,301 333 719,630 719,963
Amortization of discounted stock options 691 691
Amortization of unearned compensation 424 424
Payment on notes receivable from officers 1,096 1,096
Retirement of treasury stock (4,401) (48) (69,754) (4,401) 69,802 ---
Net income 12,094 12,094
--------- ------- ---------- --------- --------- --------- --------- ----------
Balance at January 31, 1998 88,790 $ 888 $ 904,235 --- $ --- $ (764) $ 446,216 $1,350,575
========= ======= ========== ========= ========= ========= ========= ==========
See Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
26
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
1. The Company
Fred Meyer, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and its subsidiaries (the
"Company") operated at January 31, 1998 more than 260 retail stores in a variety
of food and drug and multidepartment one-stop-shopping formats located primarily
in the Western region of the United States. In addition, the Company operates
258 fine jewelry stores across the United States, including 100 stores in the
Company's multidepartment stores.
2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Principles of Consolidation--The accompanying financial statements include
the consolidated accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries. All significant
intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated.
Fiscal Year--The Company's fiscal year ends on the Saturday closest to
January 31. Fiscal years 1997, 1996, and 1995 ended on January 31, 1998,
February 1, 1997, and February 3, 1996, respectively. Operating results for
fiscal years 1997, 1996, and 1995 include 52, 52, and 53 weeks, respectively.
Unless otherwise stated, references to years in this report relate to
fiscal years rather than to calendar years.
Business Segment--The Company's operations consist of one segment, retail
sales.
Cash and Cash Equivalents--The Company considers all highly liquid debt
instruments purchased with an original maturity of three months or less to be
cash equivalents.
Inventories--Inventories consist principally of merchandise held for sale
and substantially all inventories are stated at the lower of last-in, first-out
(LIFO) cost or market. Inventories on a first-in, first-out method, which
approximates replacement cost, would have been higher by $48.5 million at
January 31, 1998 and $52.8 million at February 1, 1997, respectively. The pretax
LIFO income was $4.3 million in 1997, $1.2 million in 1996, and $1.0 million in
1995.
Property and Equipment--Property and equipment is stated at cost.
Depreciation on owned buildings and equipment is provided using the
straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets of
three to 31 years. Amortization of buildings and equipment under capital leases
is provided using the straight-line method over the remaining related lease
terms of 16 to 40 years. Accumulated amortization of buildings and equipment
under capitalized leases was $7.8 million at January 31, 1998 and $7.2 million
at February 1, 1997.
Goodwill--Goodwill is being amortized on a straight-line basis over 15 to
40 years. Goodwill recorded in connection with the Smith's Food & Drug Centers,
Inc. (Smith's) and Fox Jewelry Company (Fox) acquisitions is being amortized
over 40 and 15 years, respectively. Other previously recorded goodwill continues
to be amortized over 30 years. Management periodically evaluates the
recoverability of goodwill based upon current and anticipated net income and
undiscounted future cash flows. Accumulated amortization was $15.1 million at
January 31, 1998 and $4.7 million at February 1, 1997.
Impairment of Long-lived Assets--The Company reviews and evaluates
long-lived assets for impairment when events or circumstances indicate costs may
not be recoverable. The net book value of long-lived assets is compared to
expected undiscounted future cash flows. An impairment loss would be recorded
for the excess of net book value over the fair value of the asset impaired.
Investment Securities--At January 31, 1998, the carrying value of all debt
and equity securities approximated their aggregate fair value. Debt securities
are classified as held to maturity and are included in Other Assets.
Bank Overdrafts--Checks that are issued on zero balance accounts and that
have not yet cleared the banks are included in current liabilities.
Use of Estimates--The preparation of financial statements in conformity
with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make
estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and
liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of
the financial statements. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Buying and Promotional Allowances--Vendor allowances and credits that
relate to the Company's buying and merchandising activities are recognized as
earned.
Advertising--Advertising costs are expensed as incurred. Advertising costs
were $49.9 million in 1997, $34.9 million in 1996, and $37.2 million in 1995.
27
Self-insurance--The Company is primarily self-insured for general
liability, property loss, worker's compensation and non-union health and
welfare. Liabilities for these costs are based on actual claims and actuarial
statements for estimates of claims that have been incurred but not reported.
Pre-opening Costs--All noncapital expenditures incurred in connection with
the opening of new or acquired stores and other facilities or the remodeling of
existing stores are expensed as incurred.
Interest Costs--Interest costs are expensed as incurred, except for
interest costs which have been capitalized as part of the cost of properties
under development. The Company's cash payments for interest (net of capitalized
interest of approximately $.2 million in 1997, $.1 million in 1996, and $3.6
million in 1995) totaled $73.0 million in 1997, $40.5 million in 1996, and $45.2
million in 1995.
Income Taxes--Deferred income taxes are provided for those items included
in the determination of income or loss in different periods for financial
reporting and income tax purposes. Targeted jobs and other tax credits are
recognized in the year realized.
Deferred income taxes are recognized for the tax consequences in future
years of differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their
financial reporting amounts at each year end based on enacted tax laws and
statutory tax rates applicable to the periods in which the differences are
expected to affect taxable income. Income tax expense is the tax payable for the
period and the change during the period in deferred tax assets and liabilities
(see note 6).
Cash paid (refunded) for income taxes was $16.1 million in 1997, $25.7
million in 1996, and $(3.3) million in 1995.
Stock-based Compensation--The Company adopted SFAS No. 123, Accounting for
Stock-based Compensation, effective January 1, 1996. As allowed under SFAS No.
123, the Company will continue to measure compensation expense for its
stock-based employee compensation plans using the intrinsic value based method,
but will provide pro forma disclosures of net income and earnings per share as
if the method prescribed by SFAS No. 123 had been applied in measuring
compensation expense (see note 7).
Earnings Per Common Share--The Company adopted SFAS No. 128, Earnings Per
Share. SFAS No. 128 requires the dual presentation of basic and diluted earnings
per share and other additional disclosures. Basic earnings per common share are
computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of common shares
outstanding. Diluted earnings per common share are computed by dividing net
income by the weighted average number of common and common equivalent shares
outstanding. Common equivalent shares relate to outstanding stock options and
warrants. Prior year earnings per common share have been restated to conform
with the standards established by SFAS No. 128.
All share and per share amounts have been restated for the two-for-one
stock split. The stock split, effected as a 100 percent stock dividend, was
effective on September 30, 1997.
Reclassifications--Certain prior year amounts have been reclassified to
conform to current year presentation. The reclassifications have no effect on
reported net income.
3. Acquisitions
On September 9, 1997, the Company succeeded to the businesses of Fred
Meyer, Inc., now known as Fred Meyer Stores, Inc. ("Fred Meyer Stores"), and
Smith's Food & Drug Centers, Inc. ("Smith's") as a result of mergers pursuant to
the Agreement and Plan of Reorganization and Merger, dated as of May 11, 1997
(the "Smith's Acquisition"). At the closing on September 9, 1997, Fred Meyer
Stores and Smith's, a regional supermarket and drug store chain operating 152
stores in the Intermountain and Southwestern regions of the United States,
became wholly owned subsidiaries of the Company. The Company issued 1.05 shares
of Common Stock of the Company for each outstanding share of Class A Common
Stock and Class B Common Stock of Smith's and one share of Common Stock of the
Company for each outstanding share of Common Stock of Fred Meyer Stores.
The Smith's Acquisition was accounted for under the purchase method of
accounting. The financial statements reflect the allocation of the purchase
price and assumption of certain liabilities and include the operating results of
Smith's from the date of acquisition. In total, the Company issued 33.3 million
shares of Common Stock to the Smith's stockholders.
28
The following pro forma information presents the results of the Company's
operations assuming the Smith's Acquisition occurred at the beginning of each
period presented (in thousands, except per share data):
Fiscal Year Ended
-------------------------
January 31, February 1,
1998 1997
----------- -----------
Net sales $ 7,341,192 $ 6,742,523
Income before extraordinary charge 127,910 81,481
Net income (loss) 36,700 (9,729)
Diluted earnings per common share:
Income before extraordinary charge 1.40 0.90
Net income (loss) 0.40 (0.11)
The pro forma financial information does not reflect anticipated annualized
operating savings. Additionally, each year includes an extraordinary charge of
$91.2 million on the extinguishment of debt as a result of refinancing certain
debt. The pro forma financial information is not necessarily indicative of the
operating results that would have occurred had the Smith's Acquisition been
consummated as of the beginning of each period nor is it necessarily indicative
of future operating results.
On August 17, 1997, the Company acquired substantially all of the assets
and liabilities of Fox in exchange for common stock with a fair value of $9.2
million. The Fox acquisition was accounted for under the purchase method of
accounting. The results of operations of Fox do not have a material effect on
the consolidated operating results, and therefore are not included in the pro
forma data presented.
The supplemental schedule of business acquisition is as follows (in
thousands):
Fiscal Year Ended
January 31, 1998
-----------------
Fair value of assets acquired $ 1,576,134
Goodwill recorded 1,011,383
Value of stock issued (729,167)
Liabilities assumed (1,827,505)
-----------
Cash paid $ 30,845
===========
4. Related-party Transactions
The Company leases certain store locations and previously leased a
distribution center from MetLife, which was a major beneficial stockholder of
the Company's stock during the three years ended January 31, 1998. Rents paid to
MetLife and other related parties on leases totaled $34.9 million in 1997, $61.8
million in 1996, and $64.0 million in 1995 (see note 8).
Rents paid for store locations leased or subleased from related parties are
included in operating and administrative expenses . Rents paid to related
parties for the leased distribution center were included in cost of goods sold.
In 1995, the Company offered interest-free loans of up to $100,000 each to
19 executives for the purpose of acquiring common stock of the Company.
Repayment of these loans is required by June 1998 or upon termination of
employment or sale of stock. Outstanding loans under this program amounted to
$.3 million at January 31, 1998 and $1.4 million at February 1, 1997.
The Company has a management agreement for management and financial
services with The Yucaipa Companies ("Yucaipa"), whose managing general partner
became the Company's chairman of the board effective September 9, 1997. The
agreement provides for annual management fees equal to $.5 million plus
reimbursement of all of Yucaipa's reasonable out-of-pocket costs and expenses.
In addition, the Company may retain Yucaipa in an advisory capacity in
connection with certain acquisitions or sale transactions, debt and equity
financings, or any other services not otherwise covered by the agreement.
29
5. Long-term Debt
Long-term debt consisted of the following (in thousands):
January 31, February 1,
1997 1996
----------- -----------
1997 Senior Credit Facility $ 1,300,000
Commercial paper with maturities through July 1, 1998,
classified as long-term, interest rates of 5.63% to
6.30% at January 31, 1998 367,156 $ 283,040
Long-term notes secured by trust deeds, due through 2012,
fixed interest rates from 9.00% to 9.52% 67,875 41,819
Uncommitted bank borrowings classified as long-term 79,000
Long-term notes, unsecured:
Due 1997 through 1998, interest rate is periodically
reset, 6.10% at February 1,1997, paid quarterly 70,000
Due 2000, fixed interest rate of 6.775%, paid quarterly 20,000
Senior notes, unsecured, due 1999 through 2007, fixed
interest rates from 7.25% to 7.98% 107,500
Other 22,648
----------- -----------
Total 1,836,679 522,359
Less current portion 1,511 847
----------- -----------
Total $ 1,835,168 $ 521,512
=========== ===========
In conjunction with the Smith's acquisition, the Company entered into a new
bank credit facility (the "1997 Senior Credit Facility") that refinanced a
substantial portion of the Company's indebtedness and indebtedness assumed in
the Smith's acquisition. The 1997 Senior Credit Facility provides a five year
$1.03 billion revolving credit facility, a $500.0 million 364-day revolving
credit facility and a five year $500.0 million bridge facility. All indebtedness
under the 1997 Senior Credit Facility is guaranteed by certain of the Company's
subsidiaries. The revolving portion of the 1997 Senior Credit Facility is
available for general corporate purposes, including the support of the
commercial paper program of the Company. The revolving credit facility and the
bridge facility mature on September 9, 2002. Commitment fees are charged at
.175% on the unused portion of the five year revolving credit facility and .08%
on the unused portion of the 364-day facility. The 364-day facility matures on
September 9, 1998 with a one year extension available upon the request of the
Company. Interest on the 1997 Senior Credit Facility is at the prime rate plus a
margin of .5% or the Adjusted LIBOR plus a margin of .30%. At January 31, 1998,
the interest rate was 5.89% on the five year revolving credit facility and 6.21%
on the five year bridge facility. No amounts were outstanding under the 364-day
revolving credit facility.
The 1997 Senior Credit Facility requires the Company to comply with certain
ratios related to fixed charges and indebtedness to earnings before interest,
taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA"). In addition, the 1997 Senior
Credit Facility limits dividends on and redemption of capital stock.
The Company has established uncommitted money market lines with four banks
of $125.0 million. These lines, which generally have terms of one year, allow
the Company to borrow from the banks at mutually agreed upon rates, usually
below the rates offered under the 1997 Senior Credit Facility. The Company also
has $500.0 million of unrated commercial paper facilities with three commercial
banks. The Company has the ability to support commercial paper and other debt on
a long-term basis through its bank credit facilities and therefore, based upon
management's intent, has classified these borrowings, which totaled $446.2
million at January 31, 1998, as long-term debt.
The Company has entered into interest rate swap, cap and collar agreements
to reduce the impact of changes in interest rates on its floating rate long-term
debt. At January 31, 1998, the Company had outstanding four interest rate
contracts for a total notional principal amount of $180.0 million with
commercial banks. One swap agreement effectively fixes the Company's interest
rate on unrated commercial paper, floating rate facilities and uncommitted lines
of credit at 5.20% on a notional principal amount of $15.0 million. This
contract expires in 1998. Two cap agreements effectively limit the maximum
interest rate the Company will pay at rates between 5.0% and 9.0% on
30
notional principal amounts totaling $35.0 million. These contracts expire
through 1999. One collar agreement effectively limits the maximum interest rate
the Company will pay at 7.5% and limits the minimum interest rate the Company
will pay at 5.3% on a notional principal amount of $130.0 million. This contract
expires in 1998.
The Company has entered into swap and cap agreements to reduce the impact
of changes in rent expense on its two lease lines of credit. At January 31,
1998, the Company had outstanding seven rent rate contracts, for a total
notional principal amount of $80.0 million, with commercial banks. Three of
these agreements effectively fix the Company's rental rate on the lease lines at
rates between 6.28% and 6.54% on notional amounts of $40.0 million. The
remaining four agreements effectively limit the maximum rental rate the Company
will pay at 7.25% on notional amounts totaling $40.0 million. All seven of these
contracts expire in 2000. Gains and losses on swaps and caps are amortized over
the life of the instruments. The Company is exposed to credit loss in the event
of nonperformance by the other parties to the interest rate swap and cap
agreements. The Company requires an "A" or better rating of the counterparties
and, accordingly, does not anticipate nonperformance by the counterparties.
Annual long-term debt maturities for the five fiscal years subsequent to
January 31, 1998 are $1.5 million in 1998, $5.1 million in 1999, $369.7 million
in 2000, $2.8 million in 2001, and $1,381.6 million in 2002.
The Company recorded an extraordinary charge of $148.3 million less a $57.1
million income tax benefit which consisted of premiums paid in the prepayment of
certain notes and bank facilities of Fred Meyer Stores and Smith's and the
write-off of their related deferred financing costs.
6. Income Taxes
The provision for income taxes includes the following (in thousands):
Fiscal Year Ended
--------------------------------------
January 31, February 1, February 3,
1998 1997 1996
---------- ---------- ----------
Current $ 55,299 $ 26,701 $ 16,937
Deferred 15,166 9,182 1,626
---------- ---------- ----------
Total $ 70,465 $ 35,883 $ 18,563
========== ========== ==========
A reconciliation between the statutory federal income tax rate to the
provision for income taxes is as follows (in thousands):
Fiscal Year Ended
--------------------------------------
January 31, February 1, February 3,
1998 1997 1996
---------- ---------- ----------
Federal income taxes at the statutory rate $ 60,819 $ 33,050 $ 17,097
State income taxes 5,977 2,833 1,466
Effect of goodwill amortization 3,669
---------- ---------- ----------
Provision for income taxes $ 70,465 $ 35,883 $ 18,563
========== ========== ==========
31
The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant
portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities at January 31,
1998 and February 1, 1997 were as follows (in thousands):
January 31, February 1,
1998 1997
---------- ----------
Deferred tax assets:
Capitalized inventory costs $ 9,073 $ 8,627
Accrued expenses 39,024 23,954
Restructuring related charges 64,044 4,215
Deferred lease transactions 18,932 13,644
Net operating loss carryforwards 65,771
AMT credits 7,800
Other 19,304 8,552
---------- ----------
Total deferred tax assets 223,948 58,992
Valuation allowance (7,100)
---------- ----------
Net deferred tax assets 216,848 58,992
Deferred tax liabilities:
Accumulated depreciation 133,023 55,782
Prepaid expenses 2,518 12,748
LIFO inventory 31,753 8,412
---------- ----------
Total deferred tax liabilities 167,294 76,942
---------- ----------
Net deferred income taxes $ (49,554) $ 17,950
========== ==========
Current deferred income taxes--asset $ (90,804) $ (17,226)
Noncurrent deferred income taxes--liability 41,250 35,176
---------- ----------
Net deferred income taxes $ (49,554) $ 17,950
========== ==========
At January 31, 1998, the Company has net operating loss carryforwards for
federal income tax purposes of $186.9 million which expire from 2010 through
2013. In addition, the Company has net operating loss carryforwards for state
income tax purposes of $356.4 million which expire from 1998 through 2013. The
Company has federal Alternative Minimum Tax ("AMT") credit carryforwards of $7.8
million which are available to reduce future regular taxes in excess of AMT.
These credits have no expiration date.
7. Stockholders' Equity
At January 31, 1998, 15.9 million shares of common stock were reserved for
issuance to employees, including officers and directors, and nonemployee agents,
consultants and advisors, under stock incentive plans. These plans provide for
the granting of incentive stock options, nonqualified stock options, stock
bonuses, stock appreciation rights, cash bonus rights and performance units.
Under the terms of the plans, the option price is determined by the Board
of Directors at the time the option is granted. The option price for incentive
stock options cannot be less than the fair value of the Company's stock on the
date of grant. Nonqualified stock options may not be granted at less than 50% of
the fair value on the date of grant.
32
Stock Options--Activity under the plans was as follows (in thousands,
except per share data):
Fiscal Year Ended
------------------------------------------------------------------------
January 31, 1998 February 1, 1997 February 3, 1996
--------------------- ---------------------- -----------------------
Weighted Weighted Weighted
Average Average Average
Option Price Option Price Option Price
Shares Per Share Shares Per Share Shares Per Share
------- ------------ -------- ------------ -------- ------------
Outstanding at beginning of year 6,342 $ 12.56 5,114 $ 12.96 4,716 $ 12.95
Granted 3,669 27.14 3,256 13.92 914 12.23
Options added from acquired company 1,595 7.33
Exercised (2,738) 11.03 (246) 8.87 (274) 7.36
Cancelled (283) 13.21 (1,782) 16.71 (242) 16.24
------- ------- --------
Outstanding at end of year 8,585 18.28 6,342 12.56 5,114 12.96
======= ========= ======= ========= ======== ============
Exercisable at end of year 5,018 $ 12.12 2,302 $ 10.56 2,522 $ 10.56
======= ========= ======= ========= ======== ============
Weighted-average fair value of
options granted during the year $ 13.49 $ 4.48 $ 4.49
======= ======= =======
Stock options granted in 1995, 1996, and 1997 expire in 10 years. The
options vest over five years, 20 percent each year, beginning at the end of the
first year. In conjunction with the Smith's Acquisition, option holders could
elect to accelerate to the closing date of September 9, 1997 the vesting of
previously unvested options. Accordingly, nearly all options outstanding became
fully vested at the closing date. Options outstanding at Smith's became fully
vested at the closing date and were converted at the exchange ratio into options
exercisable in the Company's Common Stock expiring on the original terms.
All stock options granted in 1995 and 1996 were granted at an amount equal
to or greater than the fair market value on the date prior to the grant date.
Accordingly, no compensation was recorded in 1995 and 1996. Compensation expense
for options granted in 1997 at an amount below the fair market value was
recorded for the amortization of the difference between the market value on the
date of grant and the grant price. The amortization was determined on a
straight-line basis over the vesting period. The amount charged to operations in
1997 was immaterial.
The following table summarizes information concerning currently outstanding
and exercisable options at January 31, 1998:
Options Outstanding Options Exercisable
----------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------
Range of Number Weighted Average Weighted Number Weighted
Exercise Outstanding Remaining Average Exercisable Average
Prices (in thousands) Contractual Life Exercise Price (in thousands) Exercise Price
--------- --------------- ----------------- --------------- --------------- --------------
$ 3 to $9 1,283 3.4 $ 7.04 1,256 $ 7.12
10 to 14 3,554 7.3 12.76 2,783 12.47
15 to 19 950 8.8 17.46 950 17.46
20 to 29 1,839 9.6 28.01 29 20.63
30 to 36 959 10.0 35.94
--------- ---------
3 to 36 8,585 7.6 18.28 5,018 12.12
========= =========
Shares available for option were 8.5 million as of January 31, 1998 and 1.9
million as of February 1, 1997. Of the shares available at January 31, 1998, 1.4
million shares have been approved for grant to employees of the companies that
were acquired subsequent to the year end.
The Company issued a replacement grant election program in 1996 that
allowed stock option holders with options granted at more than $13.00 per share
to reset the price at $13.00, on up to 1,968,000 options that were previously
granted at prices ranging from $13.62 to $20.63. For those who elected to reset
their option price to $13.00, the vesting period started over.
33
The Company has adopted the disclosure-only provisions of SFAS No. 123.
Accordingly, no compensation cost has been recognized for stock options granted
at the market value on the date of grant. Had compensation cost for the
Company's stock option plans been determined based on the estimated fair value
of the options at the date of grant, the Company's net income and income per
share would have been reduced to the pro forma amounts below:
Fiscal Year Ended
-------------------------------------------------------------
January 31, 1998 February 1, 1997 February 3, 1996
------------------- ------------------- -------------------
Actual Pro forma Actual Pro forma Actual Pro forma
-------- --------- -------- --------- -------- ---------
Net income (in thousands) $ 12,094 $ 230 $ 58,545 $ 56,946 $ 30,286 $ 30,078
Diluted net income per
common share 0.17 0.00 1.05 1.02 0.53 0.53
The fair value of each option grant was estimated on the date of grant
using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following assumptions used
for grants awarded in each year:
Fiscal Year Ended
---------------------------------------
January 31, February 1, February 3,
1998 1997 1996
----------- ----------- -----------
Weighted average expected volatility (based on historical volatility) 33.67% 34.97% 40.19%
Weighted average risk-free interest rate 6.10% 5.77% 6.01%
Expected term 5 years 5 years 5 years
The effects of applying SFAS 123 in this pro forma disclosure are not
indicative of future amounts. SFAS 123 does not apply to stock options granted
prior to 1995. It is anticipated that additional stock options will be granted
in future years.
Other Option--FMI Associates, which was the Company's principal shareholder
in 1996, exercised an option in 1996 for the purchase of 3.1 million shares with
an aggregate value of $5.1 million.
Warrant--As part of the Smith's Acquisition, the Company converted a
warrant for Smith's stock into a warrant for Fred Meyer stock. The warrant
issued to Yucaipa is for the purchase of up to 3.9 million shares of Common
Stock at an exercise price of $23.81 per share. Half of the warrant expires in
2005 and half expires in 2006. Additionally, at the option of Yucaipa, the
warrant is exercisable without the payment of cash consideration. Under this
condition, the Company will withhold upon exercise the number of shares having a
market value equal to the aggregate exercise price from the shares issuable.
Management Bonus--In 1996, the Company awarded a stock bonus to a corporate
officer for 20,000 shares totaling $291,250. Shares vest annually over five
years.
In 1997, the Company awarded stock bonuses to corporate officers for 3,000
shares totaling $60,562 that vest annually over five years and 8,606 shares
totaling $177,498 that vest annually over three years.
Nonemployee Directors Stock Compensation Plan--In 1996, the Company
purchased 25,116 shares of its common stock at market prices for the benefit of
six of its nonemployee directors in lieu of a portion of current and future
Board of Director fee payments. The shares total $400,103 and became fully
vested in conjunction with the Smith's Acquisition.
Stock Split--On September 5, 1997, the Executive Committee of the Board of
Directors declared a two-for-one stock split, to be effected in the form of a
100% stock dividend. As a result, 43.9 million shares were issued on September
30, 1997 to shareholders of record on September 19, 1997. Par value remained at
$.01 per share as a result of transferring $439,000 to common stock from
additional paid-in capital.
All references to the number of shares and to per share information in the
consolidated financial statements and notes thereto have been adjusted to
reflect the stock split on a retroactive basis.
8. Leases
The Company leases or subleases property and equipment used in its
operations. The terms of certain leases include renewal options, escalation
clauses, percentage rents based on sales, or payment of executory costs such as
property taxes, utilities, insurance and maintenance. Portions of certain
properties are subleased to others for periods of from one to 20 years.
34
At January 31, 1998, minimum rentals under noncancelable leases for future
fiscal years were as follows (in thousands):
Operating Capitalized Less Net
Fiscal Year Leases Leases Subleases Rentals
- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
1998 $ 150,912 $ 8,968 $ 35,896 $ 123,984
1999 146,195 9,044 33,551 121,688
2000 140,397 8,639 31,134 117,902
2001 138,119 7,689 29,031 116,777
2002 130,117 6,758 27,024 109,851
Thereafter 1,390,052 94,392 293,526 1,190,918
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total $ 2,095,792 135,490 $ 450,162 $ 1,781,120
=========== =========== ===========
Less imputed interest 80,453
-----------
Present value of minimum rental payments 55,037
Less current portion 2,652
-----------
Capitalized lease obligations $ 52,385
===========
Rent expense under operating leases, including executory costs, were as
follows (in thousands):
Fiscal Year Ended
------------------------------------
January 31, February 1, February 3,
1998 1997 1996
---------- ---------- ----------
Minimum rent expense $ 122,944 $ 90,133 $ 84,635
Contingent rent expense 1,596 1,467 1,264
Rent income from subleases (21,433) (15,453) (14,147)
---------- ---------- ----------
Net rent expense $ 103,107 $ 76,147 $ 71,752
========== ========== ==========
At January 31, 1998, deferred lease transactions consisted of unamortized
gains on lease financing transactions and cumulative net excess of rent expense
over cash rents. The gains on lease financing transactions included the
differences between property held under capital leases and capital lease
obligations at the time of amendments to the capital leases which resulted in
the leases qualifying as operating leases and gains resulting from
sale-leaseback transactions. The gains are being amortized over the remaining
life of the respective leases. The excess rent expense over cash rents results
from charging to operations the average rent over the primary lease term on
leases with escalating rent payments.
On February 4, 1997, in a series of transactions with MetLife, the Company
purchased, for approximately $49.0 million, six stores previously leased from
MetLife and an option to purchase parcels at 18 of the 29 stores the Company
will continue to lease from MetLife. Additionally, the Company entered into new
25-year leases on these remaining 29 stores that will result in reduced rents
for accounting purposes. A distribution center that was leased to the Company by
MetLife was sold to a third party who leased the center to the Company at
reduced rates.
In 1996 and 1997, the Company completed sale-leaseback transactions on 13
stores. The proceeds from the transactions were used to repay outstanding
indebtedness on credit lines and for general working capital purposes. The
initial lease terms are for 21 to 23 years and are subject to renewal at the
option of the Company. The annual rent obligation, including amortization of
fees and deferred gain, is approximately $12.1 million.
On September 9, 1997, the Company entered into a $270.0 million five-year
operating lease facility which was used to replace the leases on 17 existing
leased stores and to finance the construction of three new stores. Lease
payments are based on LIBOR applied to the utilized portion of the facility. As
of January 31, 1998, the Company had utilized $251.0 million on the facility.
On January 28, 1998, the Company entered into a $53.0 million 90-day
operating lease facility. Lease payments are based on LIBOR applied to the
utilized portion of the facility. As of January 31, 1998, the Company had
utilized $52.0 million on the facility.
35
9. Employee Benefit Plans
Employees' Profit-sharing Plan--Profit-sharing contributions under this
Plan, which covers nonunion employees of Fred Meyer Stores, are made to a trust
fund held by a third-party trustee. Contributions are based on the Company's
pretax income, as defined, at rates determined by the Board of Directors and are
not to exceed amounts deductible under applicable provisions of the Internal
Revenue Code. In 1994, the Company added an annual 1% basic contribution to all
eligible employees' accounts subject to normal plan vesting. The Company
expensed $9.1 million in 1997, $7.7 million in 1996, and $6.4 million in 1995
for these contributions.
Multiemployer Pension Plans--The Company contributes to multiemployer
pension plan trusts at specified rates in accordance with collective bargaining
agreements. Contributions to the trusts were $12.3 million in 1997, $10.4
million in 1996, and $9.9 million in 1995. The Company's relative positions in
these plans with respect to the actuarial present value of the accumulated
benefit obligation and the projected benefit obligation, net assets available
for benefits and the assumed rates of return used by the plans are not
determinable.
Employee Stock Purchase Plan--The Company has a noncontributory employee
stock purchase plan that allows employees to purchase stock in the Company at
market prices via payroll deductions. The Company pays all brokerage fees
associated with the purchase of the stock and administrative fees. The Company
also pays a ten percent cash bonus at year end based on the number of shares
purchased and held during the previous calendar year and the market price at
year end. The plan is available to all employees over age 18 who have completed
six months of continuous employment with the Company.
Supplemental Retirement Program--The Company has a supplemental retirement
program for senior management, selected vice presidents and selected key
individuals. Program provisions are as follows:
Senior Management--The plan is funded with life insurance contracts on the
lives of the participants. The Company is the owner of the contracts and made
annual contributions per participant of $35,000 in 1997 and $25,000 in 1996 and
1995. Total contributions were $865,000 in 1997, $400,000 in 1996, and $350,000
in 1995. Retirement age under the plan is normally 62 with an alternative age of
65, at which point the Company will make 15 annual benefit payments to the
executive.
Selected Vice Presidents and Selected Key Individuals--The Company will
contribute annually a percentage of each participant's gross salary. The plan is
funded with life insurance contracts on participants age 54 and younger and
variable annuity contracts for participants age 55 and older. Each participant
is the owner of his/her respective contract.
36
Pension Plan--The Company maintains a defined benefit pension plan for all
permanent, nonunion employees of Smith's which provides for normal retirement at
age 65. Employees are eligible to join when they complete at least one year of
service and have reached age 21. The benefits are based on years of service and
stated amounts associated with those years of service. The Company's current
funding policy is to contribute annually up to the maximum amount deductible for
federal income tax purposes. Net pension cost charged to operations from the
date of acquisition to year end includes the following components (in
thousands):
Fiscal Year Ended
January 31, 1998
-----------------
Service cost - present value of benefits earned during the period $ 1,066
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation 1,184
Actual return on plan assets (1,658)
Net amortization and deferral (318)
-------
Net pension cost $ 274
=======
The following table presents the plan's funded status and amounts
recognized in the Company's consolidated balance sheets (in thousands):
January 31,
1998
-----------
Actuarial present value of accumulated benefits based on service
rendered to date:
Vested $ 44,014
Non-vested 2,044
--------
46,058
Fair value of plan assets (primarily in equity and fixed income funds) 58,266
--------
Fair value of plan assets in excess of projected benefit obligation 12,208
Unrecognized net loss 4,897
--------
Net prepaid pension cost $ 17,105
========
The weighted average discount rate used to determine the actuarial present
value of the projected benefit obligation was 7%. The expected long-term rate of
return on plan assets was 9%.
10. Other Postretirement Benefits
For employees who qualified prior to January 1, 1994, the Company sponsored
a retiree health plan for postretirement health care coverage with eligibility
requirements and benefits varying by region of the Company.
Under this plan, the Company contributes 100% of the premiums of the basic
plan for retired salaried employees qualifying under eligibility requirements
which specify minimum age and years of continuous service at age 60 with 25
years of service, age 62 with 20 years of service and age 65 with 15 years of
service.
For retired salaried and hourly employees between the ages of 62 to 65
years and having completed minimum continuous service of 15 years, the retiree
pays premiums at current employee rates.
As of January 1, 1994, the Company changed the eligibility requirements and
benefits available under the retiree health plan. For all salaried and non-union
hourly employees in all regions who retire after January 1, 1994, eligibility
requirements changed to a minimum of 60 years of age with 10 years of continuous
service. Under the revised plan, the retiree pays premiums at current employee
rates.
37
The following table sets forth the plan's funded status, reconciled with
the amount shown in the Company's balance sheets (in thousands):
January 31, February 1,
1998 1997
---------- ----------
Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation:
Current retirees $ 1,362 $ 1,289
Fully eligible plan participants 891 877
Other active plan participants 5,153 3,598
---------- ----------
Accumulated postretirement benefit obligation in excess of plan assets 7,406 5,764
Unrecognized transition obligation (1,169) (1,253)
Unrecognized prior service cost (241) (283)
Unrecognized net gain/(loss) (610) 257
---------- ----------
Accrued postretirement benefit cost $ 5,386 $ 4,485
========== ==========
Weighted average discount rate 6.8% 8.0%
========== ==========
Net periodic postretirement benefit cost included
the following components:
Fiscal Year Ended
-----------------------
January 31, February 1,
1998 1997
---------- ----------
Service cost--benefits attributed to service during the period $ 454 $ 411
Interest cost on accumulated postretirement benefit obligation 455 410
Amortization of transition obligation over 20 years 125 125
---------- ----------
Net periodic postretirement benefit cost $ 1,034 $ 946
========== ==========
The assumed health care cost trend rates used in measuring the accumulated
postretirement benefit obligation were as follows:
Under Medicare Retirement Age--6% for one year, then grading down to 4.5%
by the year 2001, and
Medicare Retirement Age and Over--5% for one year, then grading down to
4.5% in 1999.
The health care cost trend rate assumption has a significant effect on the
amounts reported. To illustrate, increasing the assumed health care cost trend
rates by one percentage point in each year would increase the accumulated
postretirement benefit obligation by $1.1 million at January 31, 1998 and
February 1, 1997 and increase the aggregate of the service and interest cost
components of the net periodic postretirement benefit cost by $191,000 in 1997
and $169,000 in 1996.
11. Estimated Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The estimated fair value of financial instruments has been determined by
the Company using available market information and valuation methodologies as
shown below. The use of different assumptions and/or estimation methodologies
may have a material effect on the estimated fair value amounts. Accordingly, the
estimates presented herein are not necessarily indicative of the amounts that
the Company could actually realize.
Management is not aware of any factors that would significantly change the
estimated fair value amounts shown below. A comprehensive revaluation for
purposes of these financial statements has not been performed since January 31,
1998, and current estimates of fair value may differ from the amounts presented
herein. The Company is not subjected to a concentration of credit risk.
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Receivables, Prepaid Expenses and Other Current
Assets, Other Long-term Assets, Outstanding Bank Overdrafts and Accounts
Payable--The carrying amounts of these items are a reasonable estimate of their
fair value.
38
Long-term Debt and Interest Rate Agreements--The amount of long-term debt
included in the balance sheet approximates its fair value at January 31, 1998.
The fair value of notes, mortgages and real estate assessments payable is
estimated by discounting expected future cash flows. The discount rate used is
the rate currently available to the Company for issuance of debt with similar
terms and remaining maturities. The amounts for commercial paper and bid lines
of credit under the revolving credit agreement (see Note 5) approximates fair
value at January 31, 1998.
The fair value of interest rate or rent rate swap and cap agreements is the
estimated settlement amount. At January 31, 1998, the Company could settle the
various swap agreements at a loss of $699,000 and various cap agreements at a
loss of $525,000. The value is determined based on the notional amount of each
cap and swap, its term and the difference in rates between the date of
measurement and when the cap or swaps were initiated.
12. Commitments and Contingencies
The Company and its subsidiaries are parties to various legal claims,
actions and complaints, certain of which involve material amounts. Although the
Company is unable to predict with certainty whether or not it will ultimately be
successful in these legal proceedings or, if not, what the impact might be,
management presently believes that disposition of these matters will not have a
material adverse effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
13. Subsequent Events
On November 6, 1997, the Company entered into separate merger agreements
with Quality Food Centers, Inc. ("QFC"), a supermarket chain operating 89 stores
in the Seattle/Puget Sound region of Washington state and 56 Hughes Family
Market stores in Southern California, and Food 4 Less Holdings, Inc.
("Ralphs/Food 4 Less"), a supermarket chain operating 409 stores primarily in
Southern California and Northern California.
QFC Acquisition. At the closing on March 9, 1998, QFC became a wholly-owned
subsidiary of the Company. The Company issued 41.2 million shares of common
stock of the Company, representing 1.9 shares of common stock of the Company for
each outstanding share of QFC common stock. The acquisition will be accounted
for under the pooling-of-interest method of accounting. The accompanying
financial statements do not reflect any adjustments as a result of the QFC
Acquisition.
The following pro forma information presents the combined historical
results of the Company and QFC assuming the Company and QFC have always been one
company (in thousands, except per share data):
Fiscal Year Ended
---------------------------------------
January 31, February 1, February 3,
1998 1997 1996
----------- ----------- -----------
Net sales $ 7,359,202 $ 4,530,120 $ 4,152,574
Income before extraordinary charge 143,311 83,963 50,502
Net income 52,101 83,963 50,502
Diluted earnings per common share:
Income before extraordinary charge 1.31 1.00 0.58
Net income 0.48 1.00 0.58
The pro forma financial information does not reflect anticipated annualized
operating savings or adjustments for acquisitions made by both the Company and
QFC during the most recent fiscal year as if such acquisitions occurred at the
beginning of each period presented.
Ralphs/Food 4 Less Acquisition. At the closing on March 10, 1998,
Ralphs/Food 4 Less became a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company. The Company
issued 21.7 million shares of common stock of the Company for all of the equity
interests of Ralphs/Food 4 Less. The acquisition will be accounted for under the
purchase method of accounting. The accompanying financial statements do not
reflect any adjustments as a result of the Ralphs/Food 4 Less Acquisition.
Debt Refinancing. In conjunction with the acquisitions, the Company entered
into new financing arrangements that refinanced a substantial portion of the
Company's principal debt facilities and indebtedness assumed in the acquisitions
of QFC and Ralphs/Food 4 Less. The new credit facilities include a public issue
of $1.75 billion senior unsecured notes and bank credit facilities which include
a $1.875 billion five-year revolving credit agreement and a $1.625 billion
five-year term note. The unsecured notes were issued with $250 million of
five-year notes at 7.15%, $750 million of seven-year notes at 7.38%, and $750
million of ten-year notes at 7.45%. At closing on March 11,
39
1998, the Company utilized $2.765 billion of the bank credit facilities. An
additional $403 million was used to support the Company's commercial paper
program. The remaining $332 million was available at March 11, 1998 for general
corporate purposes. A commitment fee of .30% will be charged on the unused
portion of the five-year revolving credit agreement. Interest on the revolving
credit agreement and term notes will be at the Adjusted LIBOR plus a margin of
1.0%.
In addition to the new credit facilities, the Company entered into a $500
million five-year operating lease facility which refinanced $303 million in
existing lease financing facilities. The balance of this lease facility will be
used for land and construction costs for new stores.
40
14. Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) (in thousands, except per
share data)
First Second Third Fourth (1) Total
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Fiscal 1997
Net sales $1,193,936 $ 957,015 $1,460,372 $1,869,764 $5,481,087
Gross margin 355,421 288,659 432,525 558,946 1,635,551
Income from operations 34,993 40,808 55,485 117,987 249,273
Income before extraordinary charge 13,259 19,120 18,277 52,648 103,304
Extraordinary charge (91,210) (91,210)
Net income (loss) 13,259 19,120 (72,933) 52,648 12,094
Basic earnings per common share:
Income before extraordinary charge/2 $ 0.25 $ 0.36 $ 0.23 $ 0.60 $ 1.54
Extraordinary charge (1.16) (1.36)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Net income (loss)/2 $ 0.25 $ 0.36 $ (0.93) $ 0.60 $ 0.18
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Weighted average number
of shares outstanding 53,049 53,433 78,517 88,376 67,168
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Diluted earnings per common share:
Income before extraordinary charge/2 $ 0.24 $ 0.34 $ 0.22 $ 0.56 $ 1.46
Extraordinary charge (1.11) (1.29)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Net income (loss)/2 $ 0.24 $ 0.34 $ (0.89) $ 0.56 $ 0.17
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Weighted average number
of shares outstanding 55,256 56,090 82,315 93,894 70,609
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
First Second Third Fourth (3) Total
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Fiscal 1996
Net sales $1,040,028 $ 853,914 $ 835,142 $ 995,755 $3,724,839
Gross margin 302,072 255,386 244,427 303,642 1,105,527
Income from operations 28,336 33,651 18,472 53,401 133,860
Net income 9,444 15,173 6,292 27,636 58,545
Basic earnings per common share:
Net income/4 $ 0.18 $ 0.28 $ 0.12 $ 0.55 $ 1.12
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Weighted average number
of shares outstanding 53,412 53,444 50,769 50,576 52,155
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Diluted earnings per common share:
Net income/4 $ 0.17 $ 0.26 $ 0.11 $ 0.52 $ 1.05
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
Weighted average number
of shares outstanding 56,919 57,264 55,224 53,337 55,781
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
1 The LIFO adjustment in the fourth quarter of 1997 increased gross
margin and income from operations by $9,417, income before
extraordinary charge and net income by $5,814 and diluted earnings per
common share by $.06.
2 In 1997, the sum of the four quarters earnings per common share does
not equal the annual amount due to the acquisition of Smith's and the
two-for-one stock split in the third quarter.
3 The LIFO adjustment in the fourth quarter of 1996 increased gross
margin and income from operations by $5,386, net income by $3,339 and
diluted earnings per common share by $.06.
4 In 1996, the sum of the four quarters earnings per common share does
not equal the annual amount due to the purchase by the Company in
October 1996 of 4,400 shares of its common stock.
41
Management's Report on Responsibility for Financial Statements
- --------------------------------------------------------------
The management of Fred Meyer, Inc. has the responsibility for preparing the
accompanying financial statements and for their integrity and objectivity. The
statements were prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting
principles. The financial statements include amounts that are based on
management's best estimates and judgments. Management also prepared other
information in the annual report and is responsible for its accuracy and
consistency with the financial statements.
The Company's financial statements have been audited by Deloitte & Touche
LLP, independent auditors. Management has made available to Deloitte & Touche
LLP all the Company's financial records and related data, as well as the minutes
of shareholders' and directors' meetings.
Management has established and maintains an internal control structure that
provides reasonable assurance as to the integrity and reliability of the
financial statements, the protection of assets from unauthorized use or
disposition and the prevention and detection of fraudulent financial reporting.
The internal control structure provides for the appropriate division of
responsibility, which is monitored for compliance.
The Company maintains an internal auditing program that assesses the
effectiveness of the internal control structure and recommends improvements.
Deloitte & Touche LLP also considered the internal control structure in
connection with its audit. Management has considered the internal auditors' and
Deloitte & Touche LLP's recommendations concerning the Company's internal
control structure and has taken the appropriate actions to respond to these
recommendations.
The Company's principles of business conduct address, among other things,
potential conflicts of interests and compliance with laws, including those
relating to financial disclosure and the confidentiality of proprietary
information.
The Board of Directors pursues its responsibility for the quality of the
Company's financial reporting primarily through its Audit Committee, which is
comprised of outside directors. The Audit Committee meets approximately three
times a year with management, the corporate internal audit manager, and the
independent auditors to ensure that each is meeting its responsibilities and to
discuss matters concerning internal controls and accounting and financial
reporting. The corporate internal audit manager and independent auditors have
unrestricted access to the Audit Committee.
David R. Jessick
Senior Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer
42
Independent Auditors' Report
- ----------------------------
To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of Fred Meyer, Inc.:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Fred Meyer,
Inc. and subsidiaries as of January 31, 1998 and February 1, 1997, and the
related consolidated statements of income, changes in stockholders' equity, and
cash flows for each of the three fiscal years in the period ended January 31,
1998. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's
management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial
statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in
all material respects, the financial position of Fred Meyer, Inc. and
subsidiaries at January 31, 1998 and February 1, 1997, and the results of their
operations and their cash flows for each of the three fiscal years in the period
ended January 31, 1998, in conformity with generally accepted accounting
principles.
DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Portland, Oregon
March 11, 1998
43
Item 9. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and
Financial Disclosure.
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------
Not applicable.
44
Part III
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Item 10. Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant.
- ------------------------------------------------------------
Information with respect to directors of the Company is included under
"Election of Directors" in the Company's Proxy Statement for its 1998 Annual
Meeting of Stockholders and is incorporated herein by reference. Information
with respect to executive officers of the Company is included under Item 4A of
Part I of this Report.
Item 11. Executive Compensation.
- --------------------------------
Information with respect to executive compensation is included under
"Executive Compensation" in the Company's Proxy Statement for its 1998 Annual
Meeting of Stockholders and is incorporated herein by reference, except for
items appearing under the subheadings "Compensation Committee Report on
Executive Compensation" and "Comparison of Five Year Cumulative Total Return"
which are not incorporated herein.
Item 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------
Information with respect to security ownership of certain beneficial owners
and management is included under "Voting Securities and Principal Stockholders"
and "Election of Directors" in the Company's Proxy Statement for its 1998 Annual
Meeting of Stockholders and is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.
- --------------------------------------------------------
Information required by this item is included under "Certain Relationships
and Related Transactions" in the Company's Proxy Statement for its 1998 Annual
Meeting of Stockholders and is incorporated herein by reference.
45
Part IV
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Item 14. Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and Reports on Form 8-K.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a)(1) Financial Statements.
The information required by this item is listed in Item 8, Part II of
this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
(a)(2) Financial Statement Schedules.
All schedules are omitted as the required information is inapplicable
or is presented in the financial statements or related notes thereto.
(a)(3) Exhibits.
2A Agreement and Plan of Merger among Quality Food Centers, Inc.,
Q-Acquisition Corp. and Fred Meyer, Inc. dated as of November 6,
1997, as amended as of January 20, 1998. Incorporated by reference
to Appendix A to the Joint Proxy and Consent Solicitation
Statement/Prospectus contained in the Company's Registration
Statement on Form S-4, No. 333-44871, filed on January 26, 1998.
2B Agreement and Plan of Merger among Food 4 Less Holdings, Inc., FFL
Acquisition Corp. and Fred Meyer, Inc. dated as of November 6, 1997,
as amended as of January 20, 1998. Incorporated by reference to
Appendix B to the Joint Proxy and Consent Solicitation
Statement/Prospectus contained in the Company's Registration
Statement on Form S-4, No. 333-44871, filed on January 26, 1998.
2C Agreement and Plan of Reorganization and Merger by and between
Smith's Food & Drug Centers, Inc. and Fred Meyer, Inc. dated as of
May 11, 1997. Incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Proxy
Statement/Prospectus contained in the Company's Registration
Statement on Form S-4, No. 333-32927, filed on August 6, 1997.
3A Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Fred Meyer, Inc.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company's Form 10-Q
for the quarter ended November 8, 1997, SEC File No. 1-13339.
3B Bylaws of Fred Meyer, Inc. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.2
to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 8, 1997,
SEC File No. 1-13339.
4A Specimen Stock Certificate. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1
to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-4, Registration
No. 333-32927, filed on August 6, 1997.
4B-1 Guarantee, dated as of March 11, 1998, made by the Guarantors
referred to therein in favor of Bankers Trust Company, as
Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent, The Chase Manhattan Bank,
as Syndication Agent, The Various Financial Institutions Identified
as Lenders in the Participation Agreement, as Lenders, and The
Various Financial Institutions Identified as Investors in the
Participation Agreement, as Investors.
4B-2 Participation Agreement among Fred Meyer, Inc., as Lessee and as
Construction Agent, FMS Trust 1997-1, a Delaware business trust, as
Lessor, Wilmington Trust Company, not in its individual capacity,
except as expressly specified therein, but solely as Owner Trustee
under the FMS Trust 1997-1, the Investors party to the Trust
Agreement, Bankers Trust Company, as Administrative Agent, The Chase
Manhattan Bank, as Syndication Agent, and the Lenders Parties
thereto, dated as of March 11, 1998; Chase Securities Inc. and BT
Alex. Brown, as Arrangers.
4B-3 Lease, Security Agreement and Financing Statement between Wilmington
Trust Company, not in its individual capacity, but solely as Owner
Trustee under the FMS Trust 1997-1, as Lessor, and Fred Meyer, Inc.,
dated as of March 11, 1998.
4B-4 Construction Agency Agreement, dated as of March 11, 1998, between
FMS Trust 1997-1, a Delaware business trust, and Fred Meyer, Inc., a
Delaware corporation.
4B-5 Credit Agreement among FMS Trust 1997-1, as Borrower, The Several
Lenders from Time to Time Parties Thereto, Bankers Trust Company, as
Administrative Agent and The Chase Manhattan Bank, as Syndication
Agent, dated as of March 11, 1998.
4B-6 Lessee Guarantee, dated as of March 11, 1998, made by Fred Meyer,
Inc., as Lessee Guarantor, in favor of FMS Trust 1997-1, as Lessor,
Bankers Trust Company, as Administrative Agent, The Chase Manhattan
46
Bank, as Syndication Agent, The Various Financial Institutions
Identified as Lenders in the Participation Agreement, as Lenders,
and The Various Financial Institutions as Investors in the
Participation Agreement Therein, as Investors.
4B-7 Pledge Agreement, dated as of March 11, 1998, entered into by Fred
Meyer, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and each of the undersigned
subsidiaries of Fred Meyer, Inc. in favor of Bankers Trust Company,
as administrative agent and collateral agent, for the Beneficiaries.
4B-8 Intercreditor and Collateral Agency Agreement, dated as of March 11,
1998, among Bankers Trust Company, as Administrative Agent under the
Loan Agreement, as Administrative Agent under the Synthetic Lease
Facility, and as Collateral Agent, Fred Meyer, Inc. and the
Subsidiary Pledgors.
4B-9 Subsidiary Guarantee, dated as of March 11, 1998, executed by each
of the Guarantors listed on the signature page thereof for the
benefit of Bankers Trust Company, as Administrative Agent under the
Loan Agreement, and each Lender named therein.
4B-10 $3,500,000,000 Loan Agreement, dated as of March 11, 1998, among
Fred Meyer, Inc., as Borrower, and The Lenders Party Thereto;
Bankers Trust Company, as Administrative Agent, and The Chase
Manhattan Bank, as Syndication Agent; Chase Securities Inc. and BT
Alex. Brown, as Arrangers.
4C-1 Notes Indenture, dated as of March 11, 1998, among Fred Meyer, Inc.,
the Guarantors named therein and First National Bank of Chicago,
Trustee. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4 to the Company's
Registration Statement on Form S-3, as amended, No. 333-44537, filed
on January 20, 1998.
4C-2 Notes First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of March 11, 1998,
among Fred Meyer, Inc., the Guarantors named therein and First
National Bank of Chicago, Trustee. Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.2 to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K, dated March
4, 1998, SEC File No. 1-13339.
4D-1 Registration Rights Agreement dated September 9, 1997 between Fred
Meyer, Inc. and the signatories thereto.
4D-2 Amendment to Registration Rights Agreement dated September 9, 1997
between Fred Meyer, Inc. and the signatories thereto.
4E Registration Rights Agreement dated March 9, 1998 between Fred
Meyer, Inc. and the signatories thereto.
4F Registration Rights Agreement dated March 10, 1998 between Fred
Meyer, Inc. and the signatories thereto.
Pursuant to Item 601(b)(4)(iii) of Regulation S-K, the registrant
agrees to furnish to the Commission upon request copies of
agreements relating to other indebtedness.
*10A-1 Fred Meyer, Inc. 1983 Stock Option Plan, as amended. Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10D to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K
for the year ended January 28, 1989, SEC File No. 0-15023.
*10A-2 Amended Fred Meyer, Inc. 1990 Stock Incentive Plan. Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 22 to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form
10-Q for the quarter ended August 12, 1995, SEC File No. 0-15023.
*10A-3 Fred Meyer, Inc. 1997 Stock Incentive Plan. Incorporated by
reference to Appendix I to Exhibit 99.1 to Fred Meyer's Current
Report on Form 8-K dated September 9, 1997, SEC File No. 1-13339.
*10A-4 Quality Food Centers, Inc. Amended and Restated 1987 Incentive Stock
Option Plan. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Quality
Food Centers, Inc.'s Registration Statement on Form S-8, No.
333-19913, filed on January 16, 1997.
*10A-5 Quality Food Centers, Inc. 1993 Executive Stock Option Plan.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Quality Food Centers,
Inc.'s Registration Statement on Form S-8, No. 33-69514, filed on
September 28, 1993.
*10A-6.1 Smith's Food & Drug Centers, Inc. Amended and Restated 1989 Stock
Option Plan. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 of Smith's
Food & Drug Centers, Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
fiscal year ended December 28, 1991, SEC File No. 1-10252.
*10A-6.2 First Amendment to the Amended and Restated 1989 Stock Option Plan
dated as of February 7, 1995.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of Smith's Food & Drug
Centers, Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
December 31, 1994, SEC File No. 1-10252.
*10B. Fred Meyer, Inc. Bonus Plan Description, as amended.
47
*10C Form of Executive Severance Agreement among Fred Meyer, Inc. and
certain executive officers. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.1 of the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 8,
1997, SEC File No. 1-13339.
*10D Non-Employee Directors' Deferred Compensation Plan. Incorporated by
reference to Appendix J to Exhibit 99.1 to the Company's Current
Report on Form 8-K, dated September 9, 1997, SEC File No. 1-13339.
*10E Form of contract for Senior Executive Long-Term Disability Program.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10G to the Company's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 30, 1993, SEC File
No. 0-15023.
*10F Fred Meyer, Inc. Supplemental Income Plan dated January 1, 1994.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10H to the Company's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 29, 1994, SEC File
No. 0-15023.
*10G Employment Agreement between Fred Meyer, Inc. and Robert G. Miller,
as amended. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 of the
Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 8, 1997, SEC File
No. 1-13339.
*10H Form of Employment Agreement among Smith's Food & Drug Centers, Inc.
and certain executive officers.
*10I Employment Agreement, dated as of September 1, 1996, by and between
Quality Food Centers,' Inc. and Dan Kourkoumelis. Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 99.8 to Quality Food Centers, Inc.'s Current
Report on Form 8-K/A, dated November 12, 1996, SEC File No. 0-15590.
*10J Amended Employment Agreement, dated as of October 15, 1997, by and
between Quality Food Centers, Inc. and Dan Kourkoumelis.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8a to Quality Food Centers,
Inc.'s Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 27, 1997, SEC
File No. 0-15590.
*10K Fred Meyer, Inc. Excess Deferral and Benefit Equalization Plan. 1994
Restatement dated as of January 1, 1994. Incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 10T to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-Q for the
quarter ended November 4, 1995, SEC File No. 1-11274.
10L Management Services Agreement dated September 9, 1997 between Fred
Meyer, Inc. and The Yucaipa Companies.
10M Yucaipa Warrant Agreement. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3
to Smith's Food and Drug Centers, Inc.'s Registration Statement on
Form S-3, No. 333-14953, filed on October 28, 1996. Supplemental
Warrant, dated as of September 9, 1997 among Fred Meyer, Inc.
(formerly Meyer-Smith Holdco, Inc.) and The Yucaipa Companies.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Company's Form 10-Q
for the quarter ended November 8, 1997, SEC File No. 1-13339.
*10N Employment Agreement dated as of June 14, 1995 between Food 4 Less
Holdings, Inc., Ralphs Grocery Company and George G. Golleher.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 of Food 4 Less Holdings,
Inc.'s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended July 16,
1995, SEC File No. 33-59212.
*10O-1 Ralphs Grocery Company Retirement Supplement Plan, effective as of
January 1, 1994. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.15.1 of
Ralphs Grocery Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal
year ended January 28, 1996, SEC File No. 33-31152.
*10O-2 Amendment to the Retirement Supplement Plan, effective as of January
1, 1995. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.15.2 of Ralphs
Grocery Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year
ended January 28, 1996, SEC File No. 33-31152.
*10O-3 Second Amendment to the Retirement Supplement Plan, effective as of
June 14, 1995, by and between Ralphs Grocery Company and Ralphs
Grocery Company Retirement Supplement Plan. Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.15.3 of Ralphs Grocery Company's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 28, 1996, SEC
File No. 33-31152.
*10P-1 Ralphs Grocery Company Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan,
amended and restated as of April 9, 1994. Incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 10.16.1 of Ralphs Grocery Company's Annual Report on Form
10-K for the fiscal year ended January 28, 1996, SEC File No.
33-31152.
*10P-2 Amendment to the Amended and Restated Supplemental Executive
Retirement Plan, effective as of January 1, 1995. Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.16.2 of Ralphs Grocery Company's Annual
48
Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 28, 1996, SEC
File No. 33-31152.
*10P-3 Second Amendment to the Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan,
dated as of June 14, 1995, by and between Ralphs Grocery Company and
Ralphs Grocery Company Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16.3 of Ralphs Grocery
Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
January 28, 1996, SEC File No. 33-31152.
*10P-4 Third Amendment to the Ralphs Grocery Company Supplemental Executive
Retirement Plan, effective as of July 1, 1995. Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.16.4 of Ralphs Grocery Company's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 28, 1996, SEC
File No. 33-31152.
*10Q Quality Food Centers, Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan, as amended.
11 Statement Re Computation of Per Share Earnings.
12 Statement Re Computation of Ratios.
21 List of Subsidiaries.
23 Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP.
24 Powers of Attorney.
27A Financial Data Schedule.
27B Restated Financial Data Schedule for fiscal years 1996 and 1995.
27C Restated Financial Data Schedule for each fiscal quarter of 1996.
27D Restated Financial Data Schedule for each fiscal quarter of 1997.
* This Exhibit constitutes a management contract or compensatory plan or
arrangement
(b) Reports on Form 8-K.
A report on Form 8-K dated November 6, 1997 was filed by the Company on
November 14, 1997 to report under Item 5 the merger agreements between the
Company and Quality Food Centers, Inc. and Food 4 Less Holdings, Inc.
49
Signatures
- ----------
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on
its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Date: April 27, 1998 FRED MEYER, INC.
By DAVID R. JESSICK
-------------------------------------
David R. Jessick
Senior Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this
report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the
registrant and in the capacities indicated on April 27, 1998.
Signature Title
(1) Principal Executive Officer
*ROBERT G. MILLER President and Chief Executive Officer
-----------------------------
Robert G. Miller
(2) Principal Financial and Accounting
Officer
DAVID R. JESSICK Senior Vice President and Chief Financial
----------------------------- Officer
David R. Jessick
(3) Directors
*RONALD W. BURKLE Director
-----------------------------
Ronald W. Burkle
*ROBERT D. BEYER Director
-----------------------------
Robert D. Beyer
*VIVIAN A. BULL Director
-----------------------------
Vivian A. Bull
*JAMES J. CURRAN Director
-----------------------------
James J. Curran
*A.M. GLEASON Director
-----------------------------
A.M. Gleason
*CARLTON J. JENKINS Director
-----------------------------
Carlton J. Jenkins
*BRUCE KARATZ Director
-----------------------------
Bruce Karatz
*JOHN G. KING Director
-----------------------------
John G. King
*ROGER S. MEIER Director
-----------------------------
Roger S. Meier
50
*MARC RAPAPORT Director
-----------------------------
Marc Rapaport
*STEVEN R. ROGEL Director
-----------------------------
Steven R. Rogel
*STUART M. SLOAN Director
-----------------------------
Stuart M. Sloan
*JEFFREY P. SMITH Director
-----------------------------
Jeffrey P. Smith
*BERTRAM R. ZWEIG Director
-----------------------------
Bertram R. Zweig
*By ROGER A. COOKE
------------------------------------
Roger A. Cooke
As Attorney in Fact
51
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit Sequential
No. Description Page No.
- ------- ----------- ----------
2A Agreement and Plan of Merger among Quality Food Centers,
Inc., Q-Acquisition Corp. and Fred Meyer, Inc. dated as of
November 6, 1997, as amended as of January 20, 1998.
Incorporated by reference to Appendix A to the Joint Proxy
and Consent Solicitation Statement/Prospectus contained in
the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-4, No.
333-44871, filed on January 26, 1998.
2B Agreement and Plan of Merger among Food 4 Less Holdings,
Inc., FFL Acquisition Corp. and Fred Meyer, Inc. dated as
of November 6, 1997, as amended as of January 20, 1998.
Incorporated by reference to Appendix B to the Joint Proxy
and Consent Solicitation Statement/Prospectus contained in
the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-4, No.
333-44871, filed on January 26, 1998.
2C Agreement and Plan of Reorganization and Merger by and
between Smith's Food & Drug Centers, Inc. and Fred Meyer,
Inc. dated as of May 11, 1997. Incorporated by reference to
Appendix A to the Proxy Statement/Prospectus contained in
the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-4, No.
333-32927, filed on August 6, 1997.
3A Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Fred Meyer, Inc.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Company's
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 8, 1997, SEC File
No. 1-13339.
3B Bylaws of Fred Meyer, Inc. Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 3.2 to the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter
ended November 8, 1997, SEC File No. 1-13339.
4A Specimen Stock Certificate. Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.1 to the Company's Registration Statement on Form
S-4, Registration No. 333-32927, filed on August 6, 1997.
4B-1 Guarantee, dated as of March 11, 1998, made by the
Guarantors referred to therein in favor of Bankers Trust
Company, as Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent, The
Chase Manhattan Bank, as Syndication Agent, The Various
Financial Institutions Identified as Lenders in the
Participation Agreement, as Lenders, and The Various
Financial Institutions Identified as Investors in the
Participation Agreement, as Investors.
4B-2 Participation Agreement among Fred Meyer, Inc., as Lessee
and as Construction Agent, FMS Trust 1997-1, a Delaware
business trust, as Lessor, Wilmington Trust Company, not in
its individual capacity, except as expressly specified
therein, but solely as Owner Trustee under the FMS Trust
1997-1, the Investors party to the Trust Agreement, Bankers
Trust Company, as Administrative Agent, The Chase Manhattan
Bank, as Syndication Agent, and the Lenders Parties
thereto, dated as of March 11, 1998; Chase Securities Inc.
and BT Alex. Brown, as Arrangers.
4B-3 Lease, Security Agreement and Financing Statement between
Wilmington Trust Company, not in its individual capacity,
but solely as Owner Trustee under the FMS Trust 1997-1, as
Lessor, and Fred Meyer, Inc., dated as of March 11, 1998.
4B-4 Construction Agency Agreement, dated as of March 11, 1998,
between FMS Trust 1997-1, a Delaware business trust, and
Fred Meyer, Inc., a Delaware corporation.
4B-5 Credit Agreement among FMS Trust 1997-1, as Borrower, The
Several Lenders from Time to Time Parties Thereto, Bankers
Trust Company, as Administrative Agent and The Chase
Manhattan Bank, as Syndication Agent, dated as of March 11,
1998.
4B-6 Lessee Guarantee, dated as of March 11, 1998, made by Fred
Meyer, Inc., as Lessee Guarantor, in favor of FMS Trust
1997-1, as Lessor, Bankers Trust Company, as Administrative
Agent, The Chase Manhattan Bank, as Syndication Agent, The
Various Financial Institutions Identified as Lenders in the
Participation Agreement, as Lenders, and The Various
Financial Institutions as Investors in the Participation
Agreement Therein, as Investors.
4B-7 Pledge Agreement, dated as of March 11, 1998, entered into
by Fred Meyer, Inc., a Delaware corporation, and each of
the undersigned subsidiaries of Fred Meyer, Inc. in favor
of Bankers Trust Company, as administrative agent and
collateral agent, for the Beneficiaries.
4B-8 Intercreditor and Collateral Agency Agreement, dated as of
March 11, 1998, among Bankers Trust Company, as
Administrative Agent under the Loan Agreement, as
Administrative Agent under the Synthetic Lease Facility,
and as Collateral Agent, Fred Meyer, Inc. and the
Subsidiary Pledgors.
4B-9 Subsidiary Guarantee, dated as of March 11, 1998, executed
by each of the Guarantors listed on the signature page
thereof for the benefit of Bankers Trust Company, as
Administrative Agent under the Loan Agreement, and each
Lender named therein.
4B-10 $3,500,000,000 Loan Agreement, dated as of March 11, 1998,
among Fred Meyer, Inc., as Borrower, and The Lenders Party
Thereto; Bankers Trust Company, as Administrative Agent,
and The Chase Manhattan Bank, as Syndication Agent; Chase
Securities Inc. and BT Alex. Brown, as Arrangers.
4C-1 Notes Indenture, dated as of March 11, 1998, among Fred
Meyer, Inc., the Guarantors named therein and First
National Bank of Chicago, Trustee. Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 4 to the Company's Registration
Statement on Form S-3, as amended, No. 333-44537, filed on
January 20, 1998.
4C-2 Notes First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of March 11,
1998, among Fred Meyer, Inc., the Guarantors named therein
and First National Bank of Chicago, Trustee. Incorporated
by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Company's Current Report
on Form 8-K, dated March 4, 1998, SEC File No. 1-13339.
4D-1 Registration Rights Agreement dated September 9, 1997
between Fred Meyer, Inc. and the signatories thereto.
4D-2 Amendment to Registration Rights Agreement dated September
9, 1997 between Fred Meyer, Inc. and the signatories
thereto.
4E Registration Rights Agreement dated March 9, 1998 between
Fred Meyer, Inc. and the signatories thereto.
4F Registration Rights Agreement dated March 10, 1998 between
Fred Meyer, Inc. and the signatories thereto.
Pursuant to Item 601(b)(4)(iii) of Regulation S-K, the
registrant agrees to furnish to the Commission upon request
copies of agreements relating to other indebtedness.
*10A-1 Fred Meyer, Inc. 1983 Stock Option Plan, as amended.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10D to the Company's
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended January 28,
1989, SEC File No. 0-15023.
*10A-2 Amended Fred Meyer, Inc. 1990 Stock Incentive Plan.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 22 to the Company's
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended August
12, 1995, SEC File No. 0-15023.
*10A-3 Fred Meyer, Inc. 1997 Stock Incentive Plan. Incorporated by
reference to Appendix I to Exhibit 99.1 to Fred Meyer's
Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 9, 1997, SEC
File No. 1-13339.
*10A-4 Quality Food Centers, Inc. Amended and Restated 1987
Incentive Stock Option Plan. Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.1 to Quality Food Centers, Inc.'s Registration
Statement on Form S-8, No. 333-19913, filed on January 16,
1997.
*10A-5 Quality Food Centers, Inc. 1993 Executive Stock Option
Plan. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Quality
Food Centers, Inc.'s Registration Statement on Form S-8,
No. 33-69514, filed on September 28, 1993.
*10A-6.1 Smith's Food & Drug Centers, Inc. Amended and Restated 1989
Stock Option Plan. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.1 of Smith's Food & Drug Centers, Inc.'s Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 28, 1991,
SEC File No. 1-10252.
*10A-6.2 First Amendment to the Amended and Restated 1989 Stock
Option Plan dated as of February 7, 1995. Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.2 of Smith's Food & Drug Centers,
Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended
December 31, 1994, SEC File No. 1-10252.
*10B. Fred Meyer, Inc. Bonus Plan Description, as amended.
*10C Form of Executive Severance Agreement among Fred Meyer,
Inc. and certain executive officers. Incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.1 of the Company's Form 10-Q for
the quarter ended November 8, 1997, SEC File No. 1-13339.
*10D Non-Employee Directors' Deferred Compensation Plan.
Incorporated by reference to Appendix J to Exhibit 99.1 to
the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K, dated September
9, 1997, SEC File No. 1-13339.
*10E Form of contract for Senior Executive Long-Term Disability
Program. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10G to the
Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
January 30, 1993, SEC File No. 0-15023.
*10F Fred Meyer, Inc. Supplemental Income Plan dated January 1,
1994. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10H to the
Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
January 29, 1994, SEC File No. 0-15023.
*10G Employment Agreement between Fred Meyer, Inc. and Robert G.
Miller, as amended. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.11 of the Company's Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
November 8, 1997, SEC File No. 1-13339.
*10H Form of Employment Agreement among Smith's Food & Drug
Centers, Inc. and certain executive officers.
*10I Employment Agreement, dated as of September 1, 1996, by and
between Quality Food Centers,' Inc. and Dan Kourkoumelis.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 99.8 to Quality Food
Centers, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K/A, dated
November 12, 1996, SEC File No. 0-15590.
*10J Amended Employment Agreement, dated as of October 15, 1997,
by and between Quality Food Centers, Inc. and Dan
Kourkoumelis. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8a to
Quality Food Centers, Inc.'s Form 10-K for the fiscal year
ended December 27, 1997, SEC File No. 0-15590.
*10K Fred Meyer, Inc. Excess Deferral and Benefit Equalization
Plan. 1994 Restatement dated as of January 1, 1994.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10T to the Company's
Annual Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November
4, 1995, SEC File No. 1-11274.
10L Management Services Agreement dated September 9, 1997
between Fred Meyer, Inc. and The Yucaipa Companies.
10M Yucaipa Warrant Agreement. Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.3 to Smith's Food and Drug Centers, Inc.'s
Registration Statement on Form S-3, No. 333-14953, filed on
October 28, 1996. Supplemental Warrant, dated as of
September 9, 1997 among Fred Meyer, Inc. (formerly
Meyer-Smith Holdco, Inc.) and The Yucaipa Companies.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of the Company's
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended November 8, 1997, SEC File
No. 1-13339.
*10N Employment Agreement dated as of June 14, 1995 between Food
4 Less Holdings, Inc., Ralphs Grocery Company and George G.
Golleher. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.11 of
Food 4 Less Holdings, Inc.'s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
for the quarter ended July 16, 1995, SEC File No. 33-59212.
*10O-1 Ralphs Grocery Company Retirement Supplement Plan,
effective as of January 1, 1994. Incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 10.15.1 of Ralphs Grocery Company's Annual
Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 28,
1996, SEC File No. 33-31152.
*10O-2 Amendment to the Retirement Supplement Plan, effective as
of January 1, 1995. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.15.2 of Ralphs Grocery Company's Annual Report on Form
10-K for the fiscal year ended January 28, 1996, SEC File
No. 33-31152.
*10O-3 Second Amendment to the Retirement Supplement Plan,
effective as of June 14, 1995, by and between Ralphs
Grocery Company and Ralphs Grocery Company Retirement
Supplement Plan. Incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.15.3 of Ralphs Grocery Company's Annual Report on Form
10-K for the fiscal year ended January 28, 1996, SEC File
No. 33-31152.
*10P-1 Ralphs Grocery Company Supplemental Executive Retirement
Plan, amended and restated as of April 9, 1994.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16.1 of Ralphs
Grocery Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal
year ended January 28, 1996, SEC File No. 33-31152.
*10P-2 Amendment to the Amended and Restated Supplemental
Executive Retirement Plan, effective as of January 1, 1995.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16.2 of Ralphs
Grocery Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal
year ended January 28, 1996, SEC File No. 33-31152.
*10P-3 Second Amendment to the Supplemental Executive Retirement
Plan, dated as of June 14, 1995, by and between Ralphs
Grocery Company and Ralphs Grocery Company Supplemental
Executive Retirement Plan. Incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 10.16.3 of Ralphs Grocery Company's Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended January 28, 1996,
SEC File No. 33-31152.
*10P-4 Third Amendment to the Ralphs Grocery Company Supplemental
Executive Retirement Plan, effective as of July 1, 1995.
Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.16.4 of Ralphs
Grocery Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal
year ended January 28, 1996, SEC File No. 33-31152.
*10Q Quality Food Centers, Inc. Deferred Compensation Plan, as
amended.
11 Statement Re Computation of Per Share Earnings.
12 Statement Re Computation of Ratios.
21 List of Subsidiaries.
23 Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP.
24 Powers of Attorney.
27A Financial Data Schedule.
27B Restated Financial Data Schedule for fiscal years 1996 and 1995.
27C Restated Financial Data Schedule for each fiscal quarter of 1996.
27D Restated Financial Data Schedule for each fiscal quarter of 1997.
* This Exhibit constitutes a management contract or compensatory plan or
arrangement