As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on June 28, 2002
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
----------------
FORM 20-F
Annual Report Pursuant to Section 13 or
15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2001
Commission File Number 333-07238
------------------------
COPAMEX, S.A. de C.V.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)
COPAMEX, INC.
(Translation of Registrant's name into English)
The United Mexican States
(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
Montes Apalaches 101
Residencial San Agustin
San Pedro Garza Garcia, Nuevo Leon
66260 Mexico
(Address of principal executive offices)
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of
the Act:
None
Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of
the Act:
None
Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to
Section 15(d) of the Act:
11.375% Series B Senior Notes due 2004
Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the Issuer's classes of
capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual
report:
Series A Shares, par value Ps.100 per share 6,000
Series B Shares, par value Ps.100 per share 385,248
Series C Shares, par value Ps.100 per share 133,152
Series D Shares, par value Ps.100 per share 625,341
Series E Shares, par value Ps.100 per share 19,322,610
Series F Shares, par value Ps.100 per share 7,981,590
Series G Shares, par value Ps.100 per share 65,520
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 which financial statement item the registrant has elected
to follow.
Item 17 Item 18 X
--- ---
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL AND OTHER INFORMATION................................i
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS.....................................................i
MARKET DATA...................................................................ii
ENFORCEABILITY OF CIVIL LIABILITIES...........................................ii
PART I.........................................................................1
ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATION.......................................................1
ITEM 4. INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY...........................................12
ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS.........................29
ITEM 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES...........................43
ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS....................47
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL INFORMATION................................................49
ITEM 9. THE OFFER AND THE LISTING............................................49
ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION...............................................49
ITEM 11. QUANTITAVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK..............59
PART II.......................................................................60
ITEM 13. DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREAGES AND DELINQUENCIES........................60
ITEM 14 MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND THE USE
OF PROCEEDS..........................................................61
PART III......................................................................61
ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.................................................62
ITEM 19. EXHIBITS.............................................................63
PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL AND OTHER INFORMATION
In this annual report, references to "US$," "dollars," "Dollars" or
"U.S. Dollars," are to United States dollars, references to "Ps," "pesos" or
"Pesos" are to Mexican pesos.
Our financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Mexican
generally accepted accounting principles, referred to as Mexican GAAP. Mexican
GAAP differs in significant respects from United States generally accepted
accounting principles, referred to as U.S. GAAP. U.S. dollar amounts included in
our financial statements were converted from pesos to dollars using the exchange
rate reported by Banco de Mexico at December 31, 2001, which was Ps.9.1695 per
U.S. dollar, except where otherwise indicated. You should not construe such
conversions as representations that the peso amounts actually represent such
U.S. dollar amounts or could be converted into U.S. dollars at the rate
indicated, or at all. See Note 17 to the audited consolidated financial
statements and See "Item 5: Operating and Financial Review and
Prospects--Reconciliation to U.S. GAAP" for a discussion of certain differences
between U.S. GAAP and Mexican GAAP.
Pursuant to Mexican GAAP, our financial statements have been prepared
in accordance with Bulletins B-10 and B-12 of the Mexican Institute of Public
Accountants, which provides for the recognition of certain effects of inflation.
Bulletin B-10 requires us to restate the value of inventories to their
replacement cost, without exceeding their net realizable value, and to restate
the value of fixed assets using the National Consumer Price Index, or Indice
Nacional de Precios al Consumidor, also referred to as the NCPI. Bulletin B-12
requires the Company to provide a comparison of balance sheet items in constant
pesos as of December 31 of the last year in which audited financial statements
are available in the "Statement of Changes in Financial Position."
Bulletin B-10 also requires us to restate non-monetary liabilities and
the components of shareholders' equity using the NCPI and to record gains or
losses in purchasing power from holding monetary liabilities or assets. In
addition, Bulletin B-10 requires restatement of all financial statements to
constant pesos as of the date of the most recent balance sheet presented.
Accordingly, all data in the financial statements and in the summary and
selected financial data set forth herein have been restated in constant pesos as
of December 31, 2001. The effect of these inflation accounting principles has
not been reversed in the reconciliation of Copamex's net income and
stockholders' equity to U.S. GAAP.
Beginning fiscal year 2000, we were required to comply with Bulletin
D-4, which regulates the accounting treatment of income taxes, asset taxes and
employees' profit sharing, and modifies the rules for determining deferred
income taxes. These accounting rules require that deferred income taxes be
determined with respect to all temporary differences between the book value and
the taxable value of the assets and liabilities included in the balance sheet.
Such determination must be made by applying the income tax rate in effect on the
date of the financial statements. Until December 31, 1999, deferred income taxes
were determined only with respect to temporary differences in book and taxable
values that were deemed to be non-recurring and whose reversion could be
foreseen in a specific period of time. Beginning fiscal year 2000, the
cumulative effect of adopting the new accounting rules was reflected in a new
stockholder's equity account. Bulletin D-4 does not require the restatement of
financial statements for any fiscal year prior to its implementation.
-----------
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
Certain of the matters discussed in this annual report or in the
information incorporated by reference herein may constitute forward-looking
statements. Certain of these forward-looking statements can be identified by the
use of forward-looking terminology such as "believes," "expects," "may," "will,"
"should," "seeks," "approximately," "intends," "plans," "estimates," or
"anticipates" or the negative thereof or other comparable terminology, or by
discussions of strategy, plans or intentions. Statements contained in this
annual report which are not historical facts are forward-looking statements.
Without limiting the generality of the preceding statement, all statements in
this annual report concerning or relating to estimated and projected
earnings, margins, costs, expenditures, cash flows, growth rates and financial
results are forward-looking statements. In addition, we, through our senior
management, from time to time make forward-looking public statements concerning
our expected future operations and performance and other developments. Such
forward-looking statements are necessarily estimates reflecting our best
judgment based upon current information and involve a number of risks and
uncertainties. There can be no assurance that other factors will not affect the
accuracy of these forward-looking statements or that our actual results will not
differ materially from the results anticipated in such forward-looking
statements. While it is impossible to identify all such factors, factors which
could cause actual results to differ materially from those estimated by us
include, but are not limited to, those factors or conditions described under
"Item 3: Key Information--Risk Factors."
Accordingly, we caution you not to place undue reliance on these
forward-looking statements. In any event, these statements speak only as of
their dates; we undertake no obligation to publicity update or revise any
forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future
events or otherwise.
-----------
MARKET DATA
The Mexican government does not publish definitive data regarding the
pulp and paper industry on a regular basis. Accordingly, information contained
in this annual report regarding national production, imports, exports, apparent
demand, market share and market position has been computed by us and is based on
our estimates which are derived from statistics accumulated by us and our
analysis of certain data obtained from the Camara Nacional de las Industrias de
la Celulosa y del Papel (the "Mexican National Chamber of the Pulp and Paper
Industries"), A.C. Nielsen, the Instituto Nacional de Estadistica, Geografia e
Informatica ("INEGI") (the National Institute of Statistics, Geography and
Information Systems) and the Secretaria de Hacienda y Credito Publico (the
"Ministry of Finance and Public Credit") and certain assumptions made by us. In
particular, market share information regarding away-from-home products and
cut-size paper is derived from our internal sources and certain assumptions made
by us based on our knowledge of the market and experience in the Mexican paper
industry.
The information contained in this annual report regarding market share
and market position of consumer products is presented for the twelve month
period ended December 31, 2001, unless otherwise indicated. This market share
and market position information is derived from the most recent data available
to us from the third parties mentioned above and our internal sources. Because
this information is derived from different sources and relates to different
market sectors, the data available to us pertains to different time periods,
ranging from two to twelve months.
Although we believe that the data taken from third parties and used in
this annual report is reliable, we have not independently verified such data and
take no responsibility for the accuracy of such data. Similarly, while we
believe our internal research and estimates to be reliable, they have not been
verified by any independent source and we cannot assure you as to their
accuracy.
ENFORCEABILITY OF CIVIL LIABILITIES
We are a corporation (sociedad anonima de capital variable)
incorporated under the laws of Mexico and substantially all of our assets are
located in Mexico. In addition, all of our directors and officers reside outside
the United States (principally in Mexico) and all or a significant portion of
our assets and the assets of those persons are located outside the United States
(principally in Mexico). As a result, it may not be possible for investors to
effect service of process upon such persons within the United States or to
enforce against such persons or us judgments obtained in the courts of the
United States, including without limitation, judgments predicated upon the civil
liability provisions of the federal securities laws of the United States.
We have been advised by Carlos Luis Diaz Saenz, our General Counsel,
that there is doubt as to the enforceability in original actions in Mexican
courts of liabilities predicated solely upon U.S. federal securities laws and as
to the enforceability in Mexican courts of judgments of U.S. courts obtained in
actions predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the U.S. federal
securities laws. Because substantially all of our assets are located in Mexico,
holders of our securities may effectively be required to pursue in Mexico, under
Mexican law, any claims they may have against us without the benefit of the U.S.
federal securities laws.
PART I
ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATION
SELECTED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL AND OPERATING INFORMATION
The following tables present our selected consolidated financial
information and our consolidated subsidiaries. This information (other than the
production data) has been derived from and should be read in conjunction with
our audited consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2001, 2000 and
1999 and for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999 as well as the
information under "Item 5: Operating and Financial Review and Prospects." Our
audited consolidated financial statements which appear at the back of this
annual report have been audited by Mancera, S.C., a member practice of Ernst &
Young Global, independent public accountants.
Our financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Mexican
GAAP. Mexican GAAP differs in significant respects from U.S. GAAP. See Note 17
to our audited consolidated financial statements and "Item 5: Operating and
Financial Review and Prospects--Reconciliation to U.S. GAAP" for a discussion
of certain differences between U.S. GAAP and Mexican GAAP.
Peso amounts included in the tables below were converted to U.S.
dollars at the exchange rate of Ps.9.156 per US$1.00, which was the noon buying
rate at December 31, 2001 as published by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.
Such conversions should not be construed as representations that the peso
amounts actually represent such U.S. dollar amounts or could be converted into
U.S. dollars at the rate indicated, or at all.
Prior to December 2, 1997, we were a holding company whose assets
included, among other things, a 72% ownership interest in Copamex Industrias,
S.A. de C.V., also known as COINSA, a Mexican company engaged in the production
and sale of paper products. Our assets also consisted of assets not related to
the paper business. On December 2, 1997, we spun off our assets that were not
related to the paper business. On February 28, 1998, COINSA was merged into us.
As used in this annual report EBITDA is operating income (loss) before
interest expense, depreciation and amortization. Amortization is not deducted
from operating income, but instead is recorded in other income (loss). EBITDA is
presented because we believe that EBITDA provides useful information regarding
our debt service ability. EBITDA should not be considered in isolation or as a
substitute for the consolidated income statements or the consolidated statements
of changes in financial position prepared in accordance with Mexican GAAP or as
a measure of profitability or liquidity. EBITDA is not (a) a measure determined
under U.S. GAAP, (b) an alternative to U.S. GAAP operating income (loss) or net
income (loss) or (c) a measure of liquidity or cash flows as determined under
U.S. GAAP. EBITDA does not represent discretionary funds. EBITDA, as calculated
by us, may not be comparable to similarly titled measures reported by other
companies.
As of and for the Year Ended December 31,
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2001
-------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Millions of constant December 31, 2001
Pesos and U.S. dollars except ratios and production data
Income Statement Data
Mexican GAAP:
Net sales................................. Ps.6,244 Ps.6,837 Ps.7,068 Ps.7,867 Ps.7,618 US$ 832
Cost of sales............................. (4,209) (4,587) (4,672) (5,359) (4,897) (535)
-------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Gross profit.............................. 2,035 2,250 2,396 2,508 2,721 297
Selling and administrative expenses....... (1,107) (1,321) (1,462) (1,722) (1,800) (197)
-------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Operating income.......................... 927 929 934 786 921 101
Comprehensive cost of financing:
Interest income........................... 40 51 21 27 39 4
Interest expense.......................... (745) (658) (607) (637) (582) (63)
Exchange gain (loss)...................... (163) (1,287) 241 (93) 261 29
Result from monetary position(1).......... 631 (901) 581 380 180 20
-------- --------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total comprehensive income (cost) of
financing............................... (237) (992) 236 (323) (102) (11)
Other income (loss)....................... (64) (18) (23) (70) (104) (11)
-------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Equity in income of associated companies.. (26) (3)
Asset write down.......................... (601) (66)
Income (loss) before income and asset
taxes and employee profit sharing..... 755 (45) 1,148 393 88 10
Income and asset taxes and profit
sharing(2)............................ (39) (35) (107) (238) (93) (10)
-------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Income (loss) before minority interest.. 716 (80) 1,040 155 (5) (1)
Minority interest....................... (194) (32) (56) (38) (52) (6)
-------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Net income (loss)....................... Ps. 522 Ps. (112) Ps. 984 Ps. 118 Ps. (57) US$ (6)
======== ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
U.S. GAAP:
Operating Income........................ Ps. 835 Ps. 852 Ps. 949 Ps. 764 Ps. 193 US$ 21
Interest expense, net(3)................ (699) (588) (553) (610) (543) (59)
Net income (loss) 217 259 564 273 (55) (6)
Balance Sheet Data
Mexican GAAP:
Property, plant and equipment, net...... Ps.9,498 Ps.9,526 Ps.9,394 Ps.9,106 Ps.8,526 US$ 931
Total assets............................ 13,279 13,076 12,996 13,259 12,506 1,366
Short term debt, including the current
portion of long term debt............. 912 1,475 2,626 2,157 2,093 229
Long term debt.......................... 4,959 4,898 2,811 3,256 2,706 296
Total debt.............................. 5,871 6,373 5,437 5,413 4,799 524
Stockholders' equity.................... Ps.6,157 Ps.5,622 Ps.6,290 Ps.4,270 Ps.4,058 US$ 443
U.S. GAAP:
Stockholders' equity.................... Ps.2,351 Ps.3,654 Ps.3,869 Ps.3,916 Ps.3,653 US$ 398
Other Data
Mexican GAAP:
EBITDA.................................. Ps.1,296 Ps.1,326 Ps.1,354 Ps.1,215 Ps.1,284 US$ 140
Depreciation............................ 368 397 420 429 363 40
Amortization............................ 27 47 46 46 45 5
Capital expenditures.................... Ps.(1,329) Ps. (409) Ps. (359) Ps. (301)(4) Ps. (294)(5) US$ (32)
EBITDA to interest expense, net(3)...... 1.8x 2.2x 2.3x 2.0x 2.4x 2.4x
Total debt to EBITDA.................... 4.5 4.8 4.0 4.5 3.7 3.7
Net cash provided by operating
activities(6)......................... Ps. 482 Ps. 193 Ps.1,376 Ps. 625 Ps.1,200 US$ 131
U.S. GAAP:
EBITDA.................................. Ps.1,236 Ps.1,290 Ps.1,408 Ps.1,264 Ps.1,207 US$ 132
EBITDA to interest expense, net(3)...... 1.7x 2.2x 2.5x 2.1x 2.2x 2.2x
Total debt to EBITDA.................... 4.7 4.9 3.9 4.3 4.0 4.0
Net cash provided (used) by operating
activities(6)......................... Ps. (163) Ps. 496 Ps. 516 Ps. 293 Ps. 513 US$ 56
Ratio of earnings to fixed charges(7)... 2.0x 0.9x 3.1x 1.7x 1.1x 1.1x
As of and for the Year Ended December 31,
-------------------------------------------------------------
1997 1998 1999 2000 2001
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Production Data (unaudited)
Consumer Products:
Tissue products (in thousands of tons)(8)............ 93.1 123.9 131.7 134.7 133.0
Feminine-care products (in millions of units)........ 524.0 746.0 934.3 1,130.4 1,219.9
Away-from-home products (in thousands of tons)(9).... -- -- 3.7 6.4 5.3
Notebooks (in thousands of tons)..................... 1.5 5.5 7.5 4.2 3.4
Adult Incontinence Products (in thousands of
units)(10)......................................... -- -- -- -- 700.0
Baby Diapers (in millions of units)(11).............. -- -- -- 47.4 201.7
Packaging Products:
Multi-wall paper bags (in millions of units)......... 437.3 437.5 453.3 484.2 477.1
Packaging paper (in thousands of tons)(12)........... 227.9 224.6 222.5 226.0 220.8
Corrugated boxes (in thousands of tons).............. -- -- -- 4.9 55.4
Printing and Writing Products:
Printing and writing paper (in thousands of tons).... 204.0 203.5 198.5 197.5 188.7
Specialty paper (in thousands of tons)............... 18.1 19.0 22.3 21.3 24.2
- -----------------------
Notes to Selected Consolidated Financial and Operating Information
(1) Result from monetary position reflects the impact of inflation on our net
monetary assets (which includes cash, cash equivalents and accounts
receivable) and liabilities (which includes all debt, accounts payable and
deferred taxes). For example, a gain on monetary position results from
holding net monetary liabilities in pesos during periods of inflation due
to the decline in the purchasing power of the peso over time.
(2) Under Mexican law, if the income tax payable in a fiscal year amounts to
less than 1.8% of the average value of most of a company's assets, net of
certain liabilities, then the company pays a minimum alternate asset tax in
an amount equal to such percentage of those net assets. Mexican companies
are also required by law to provide their workers with 10% of their taxable
profit, calculated before adjustments for inflation or amortization of tax
losses of previous years.
(3) Interest expense, net of interest income.
(4) Net of fixed asset sales in the amount of Ps.71 million.
(5) Includes fixed assets acquired with the operations of Corrugado y Fibra,
S.A. de C.V. in the amount of Ps.86 million.
(6) Under Mexican GAAP, the cash flow data has been adjusted for inflation and
includes certain non-cash items, such as monetary gains and losses and
foreign exchange gains and losses and, as a result, are not comparable with
the respective U.S. GAAP cash flow data.
(7) Ratio of earnings to fixed charges is calculated as earnings from
continuing operations before income taxes and fixed charges divided by
fixed charges. Fixed charges consist of interest expense and amortization
of deferred costs related to the issuance of bonds during the period and
does not include gain or loss from monetary position or exchange gain or
loss attributable to our indebtedness.
(8) Includes bathroom and facial tissue, paper napkins and paper towels. See
"Item 4: Information on the Company--Our Products--Consumer
Products--Tissue Products."
(9) We began producing away-from-home products in 1999.
(10) We began producing adult incontinence products in November 2001.
(11) Manufactured by Copamex Higiene Infatil, S.A. de C.V., an affiliated
company. All production of baby diapers is sold and distributed by us. This
company began producing baby diapers in September 2000, but we began
distributing baby diapers manufactured by other producers in July 2000.
(12) Includes kraft paper, corrugating medium and linerboard. See "Item 4:
Information on the Company--Our Products--Packaging Products."
DIVIDENDS
Dividend Policy
Our ability to pay dividends is limited by Mexican law, our estatutos
sociales ("bylaws") and by financial covenants contained in our credit
agreements. Pursuant to Mexican law and our bylaws the payment of dividends is
determined by a majority vote of the holders of the outstanding shares at an
ordinary general shareholders' meeting, generally based on, but not necessarily,
the recommendation of the Board of Directors. The payment of dividends can only
be paid from retained earnings after losses from prior fiscal years have been
paid. The amount of any dividend would depend on, among other things, operating
results, financial condition, cash requirements, losses for prior fiscal years,
future prospects, the extent to which debt obligations impose restrictions on
dividends and other factors deemed relevant by the Board of Directors and the
shareholders.
Under our bylaws and the Mexican Companies Law ("Ley General de
Sociedades Mercantiles"), gross profits, after provision for income taxes,
employee profit sharing payments and other amounts to be deducted by law ("net
profits"), are applied as follows:
(i) an amount equivalent to at least 5% of net profits is segregated
to build a legal reserve until such reserve is equal to 20% of our
historical capital stock (before effect of restatement), and
(ii) the remainder of net profits may be paid in the form of dividends
to our shareholders or applied to the retained earnings account.
Pursuant to a 1997 indenture entered into in connection with our
11.375% Senior Notes due 2004 (together with the 11.375% Series B Notes due
2004(defined below), the "Notes"), we are limited in our ability to pay
dividends or redeem or retire capital stock unless (i) we would be permitted, at
that time, to incur at least US$1 of debt under the Notes, and (ii) the amount
of such payment, plus all similar payments, does not exceed 50% of our
consolidated cumulative net income since April 1997, plus the net proceeds of
our issuances of capital stock since April 1997, plus cash returns on
investments permitted under the Notes, plus US$15 million. See "Item 10:
Additional Information--Material Contracts--Major Indebtedness."
The ability of our subsidiaries to make distributions to us is limited
by Mexican law and by their bylaws. The payment of dividends must be approved by
shareholders and can only be paid from retained earnings after losses from prior
fiscal years have been paid.
Dividend History
We paid dividends of Ps.185.9 million or US$17.2 million in 1999, and
we did not pay any dividends in 2000 or 2001.
We currently plan to make dividend payments if our earnings permit,
after taking into consideration our capital requirements, future prospects and
other factors deemed relevant by our shareholders. Because we are a holding
company with no significant operations of our own, we have distributable profits
and cash to pay dividends only to the extent that we receive dividends from our
subsidiaries. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that we will pay dividends
or of the amount of any such dividends.
EXCHANGE RATE INFORMATION
In 1997 and for much of 1998, the foreign exchange markets were
volatile as a result of financial crises in Asia and Russia and financial
turmoil in countries including Brazil and Venezuela, and the Peso declined
during this period; however, it has been relatively stable since 1999, and
towards the end of 2001 and the beginning of 2002, the Peso exhibited
considerable revaluation against the U.S. Dollar and more so against other world
currencies. In the months immediately preceeding the filing of this annual
report, the Peso has depreciated. There can be no assurance that the Mexican
government will maintain its current policies with regard to the Peso or that
the Peso will not further depreciate significantly.
The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the high,
low, average and period-end noon buying rate in New York City for cable
transfers in pesos published by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, expressed
in pesos per U.S. dollar. The rates have not been restated in constant currency
units.
Year High (1) Low(1) Average(2) Period End
- ------ ---------- -------- ---------- ----------
1997............................... 8.410 7.717 7.967 8.070
1998............................... 10.630 8.040 9.243 9.901
1999............................... 10.600 9.243 9.563 9.480
2000............................... 10.087 9.183 9.459 9.618
2001............................... 9.970 8.946 9.326 9.156
Month
December 2001................... 9.245 9.090
January 2002.................... 9.250 9.095
February 2002................... 9.170 9.048
March 2002...................... 9.114 9.001
April 2002...................... 9.375 9.002
May 2002........................ 9.713 9.408
- ------------
(1) Rates shown are the actual low and high, on a day-by-day basis for each
period.
(2) Average of month-end rates.
On June 14, 2002, the noon buying rate was Ps.9.664 to US$1.00.
RISK FACTORS
You should carefully consider the following risks and other information
presented in this annual report before making an investment decision. To the
extent information relates to the Mexican government or Mexican macroeconomic
data, we have extracted such information from official publications of the
Mexican government and have not independently verified it.
Any of the following risks, if they actually occur, could materially
and adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.
Risk Factors Relating to Our Operations
We face increasing competition which could result in lower operating margins and
decreased profitability.
The consumer products and industrial paper products industries in
Mexico are highly competitive. Our competitors in Mexico and our competitors in
the United States that import products into Mexico include large,
vertically-integrated consumer products and industrial paper products
manufacturers and numerous smaller companies. Some of our competitors have
substantially greater financial and other resources than we and may be better
able than we are to withstand adverse economic or market conditions. In recent
years, there has been a trend toward consolidation within the primary and
converted paper products sectors, and we believe that this trend will continue.
In addition, with the gradual elimination of tariffs and generally low prices
for paper and packaging products in the United States over the past years,
competition from imports has increased and may increase further. Increased
competition from imports of bond paper and other industrial paper products may
have a material adverse effect on us by driving down our prices and decreasing
our revenues. The principal competitive factors in these industries are price,
quality, service and brand name, with varying emphasis on these factors
depending on the product line. Loss of existing or future market share to
competitors may adversely affect our performance and, to the extent that one or
more of our competitors becomes more successful with respect to any key
competitive factor, our operating margins could be adversely affected.
We may not always be able to recoup future increases in the cost of our raw
materials.
Raw materials accounted for approximately 75.3% of our total cost of
sales in the year ended December 31, 2001. The principal raw materials used in
our production process are pulp, energy, chemicals, recyclable paper and water.
The prices of some of these raw materials have historically fluctuated due to
market and industry conditions. Because of this volatility, we may not always be
able to pass along our increased costs to our customers in the form of price
increases, which could impair our gross margins, cash flow and profitability.
We have required waivers of certain financial covenants contained in our bank
credit agreements.
Over the past three years, we have, during each such year, obtained
several waivers from banks under different credit agreements in connection with
failures to comply with certain covenants of such credit agreements.
Future failure to comply with financial covenants in our bank credit
agreements would require us to request additional waivers. If the banks do not
agree to grant such waivers, it could result in us defaulting under such
agreements, which may cause us to be in default under the Notes or our other
indebtedness. In the event of such a default, our lenders may have the right to
declare the relevant indebtedness, together with accrued interest and other
fees, to be immediately due and payable and/or to impose a higher rate of
interest. In the event of a default our lenders may also have the right to
proceed against any collateral securing such indebtedness.
We are subject to price fluctuations in the pulp market.
Since we ceased operations at our Pondercel pulp mill in 2001, we began
to purchase our full requirements for virgin pulp from third parties. Prior to
such closing, our Pondercel pulp mill produced approximately 60% of our virgin
fiber requirements for the year ended December 31, 2000. As a result of our
closing of the Pondercel pulp mill, we are subject to price fluctuations in the
pulp market, and we cannot assure you that we will be able to reflect any cost
increases in our sales prices.
Our prices, cash flow and our profitability for our printing and writing
products may decrease because of down cycles in the paper industry.
Sales prices for printing and writing products have historically been
subject to cyclical fluctuations. Pricing is affected not only by demand for
these products, which correlates with real economic growth, but also by current
inventory levels of customers. In addition, because each new machine produces
large volumes of paper, the impact of new production facilities may result in
supply/demand imbalances. To the extent that we are not able to maintain our
prices at current levels, our gross margin, which is a measure of our gross
profit as a percentage of net sales, our cash flow and our profitability, could
be negatively affected.
Our ability to finance our growth strategy may be limited by restrictive
covenants related to our debt.
Debt instruments governing a substantial portion of our indebtedness
(including the notes) contain various covenants which require us to maintain
financial ratios, restrict asset sales and dictate the use of proceeds from the
sale of assets. These requirements could limit our ability to finance
acquisitions and expansions and maintain flexibility in managing our business
activities.
Lack of water availability may adversely affect us.
Water is an essential raw material in the paper production process.
Some of our plants satisfy their water requirements through water wells licensed
by the Mexican National Water Commission (Comision Nacional del Agua), whereas
others purchase water from municipalities or from third parties. The Mexican
government has the power to limit our water consumption and the volume of water
that we may use according to our licenses, and it also has the power to revoke
such licenses, in the event of our breach of the licenses' terms.
Although we believe that we are in compliance with our obligations
under the licenses, we cannot assure you that the licenses will not be revoked.
We also cannot be certain that the terms of any renewal of these licenses will
be favorable, or that the volume of water that is currently available for use in
manufacturing our products will be sufficient to satisfy our production
requirements in the future. If our licenses are revoked, or the water that we
may consume under our licenses is not sufficient to satisfy our production
requirements, it may have an adverse effect on our cash flow, financial
condition and operations.
Our environmental compliance costs could increase in the future.
In each jurisdiction in which we operate, our business operations and
facilities are subject to stringent and complex laws and regulations relating to
pollution, protection of public health and the environment, and employee safety
and health. In Mexico, our operations are subject to the Mexican General Law of
Ecological Balance and Environmental Protection, or Ley General del Equilibrio
Ecologico y Proteccion al Ambiente, and its related rules and various state and
municipal laws. In accordance with this ecological law, which has been
influenced by United States rules as a result of the effectiveness of NAFTA,
companies engaged in industrial activities such as ours are subject to the
regulatory jurisdiction of:
o the Ministry of the Environment and Natural Resources, or
Secretaria de Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales, which has broad
discretion in carrying out its statutory mandate,
o the National Institute of Ecology, or Instituto Nacional de
Ecologia, its regulatory arm, and
o the Office of the Attorney General for Protection of the
Environment, or Procuraduria Federal de Proteccion al Ambiente,
known as Profepa, its enforcement arm.
As part of its enforcement powers, the Ministry of the Environment and
Natural Resources, through Profepa, is empowered to bring administrative
proceedings against companies that violate environmental laws, to impose
economic sanctions and to temporarily or permanently close non-complying
facilities. Under the ecological law, the Mexican government has implemented an
aggressive program to protect the environment by promulgating rules concerning
water, land, air and noise pollution, hazardous substances and wastes.
We believe that we are in substantial compliance with applicable
environmental laws and regulations, including Mexican environmental laws and
regulations as currently applied by Mexican authorities. However, existing
environmental laws and regulations could be enforced more strictly and more
stringent laws could be imposed as a result of, among other things, the
influence of NAFTA. Future events such as changes in existing environmental laws
or their interpretation, more vigorous enforcement policies of regulatory
agencies and new information may give rise to additional expenditures or
liabilities that could be material.
Risk Factors Relating to Our Existing Debt
Our substantial level of indebtedness could adversely affect our financial
condition and prevent us from fulfilling our existing credit obligations.
As of March 31, 2002, we had approximately US$525 million of
outstanding indebtedness. In addition, subject to restrictions contained in the
indenture and the instruments governing the terms of our other outstanding
indebtedness, we may incur additional indebtedness. In particular, subject to
such restrictions, as of March 31, 2002, we had approximately US$102 million of
additional borrowing capacity under our uncommitted bank credit agreements.
Our high level of indebtedness could have important consequences to
you. For example, it could:
o make it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations with
respect to our credit obligations;
o increase our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry
conditions;
o limit our ability to fund future capital expenditures, operating
losses, working capital and other general corporate requirements;
o require us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow from
operations to interest and principal payments on our indebtedness,
reducing the availability of our cash flow for other purposes, such
as capital expenditures and operating losses;
o limit our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in
our business and the industry in which we operate;
o place us at a disadvantage compared to our competitors that have
less debt; and
o limit our ability to borrow additional funds.
Our ability to meet our expenses thus depends on our future
performance, which will be affected by financial, business, economic and other
factors. We will not be able to control many of these factors, such as economic
conditions in the markets where we operate and pressure from competitors. We
cannot be certain that our operating cash flow will be sufficient to allow us to
pay principal and interest on our debt and meet our other obligations. If we do
not generate sufficient cash flow, we may be required to refinance all or part
of our existing debt, sell assets, borrow additional funds or issue additional
equity. We cannot guarantee that we will be able to do so at all or on terms
acceptable to us. In addition, the terms of existing or future debt agreements,
including our bank credit agreements and our indentures, may restrict us from
adopting any or all of these alternatives. The failure to generate sufficient
cash flow or to achieve such alternatives could significantly adversely affect
our ability to pay principal of and interest on our debt.
The indenture for our outstanding Notes and the terms of our other indebtedness
impose significant operating and financial restrictions, which may prevent us
from capitalizing on business opportunities and taking some actions.
The indenture for the outstanding Notes and our bank credit agreements
impose significant operating and financial restrictions on us. These
restrictions will limit our ability, among other things, to:
o incur additional indebtedness;
o make restricted payments, including dividends or other
distributions;
o make investments;
o sell assets;
o incur liens;
o enter into agreements restricting our subsidiaries' ability to pay
dividends;
o enter into transactions with affiliates; and
o consolidate, merge or sell all or substantially all of our assets.
In addition, our bank credit agreements require us to maintain
specified financial ratios. We cannot assure you that these covenants will not
adversely affect our ability to finance our future operations or capital needs
or to pursue available business opportunities. A breach of any of these
covenants or our inability to maintain the required financial ratios could
result in a default in respect of the related indebtedness. If a default occurs,
the relevant lenders could elect to declare the indebtedness, together with
accrued interest and other fees, to be immediately due and payable and to
proceed against any collateral securing that indebtedness. A default under any
such indebtedness might also give rise to a default under the Notes.
We may not be able to satisfy our obligations to our creditors upon a change of
control.
Upon the occurrence of a "change of control," as defined in the
indenture, each holder of the Notes will have the right to require us to
purchase the notes at a price equal to 101% of the principal amount, together
with any accrued and unpaid interest to the date of purchase. Our failure to
purchase, or give notice of purchase of, the notes or the Notes would be a
default under the applicable indenture, which would in turn be a default under
our bank credit agreements.
In addition, a change of control may constitute an event of default
under our bank credit agreements. A default under our bank credit agreements
would result in an event of default under the indenture if the lenders
accelerate the debt under our bank credit agreements.
If a change of control occurs, we may not have enough cash or assets to
satisfy all of our obligations under our bank credit agreements and the
indenture related to the notes and the Notes. Upon the occurrence of a change of
control we could seek to refinance the indebtedness under our bank credit
agreements and the Notes or obtain a waiver from the lenders or you as a holder
of the Notes. We cannot assure you, however, that we would be able to obtain a
waiver or refinance our indebtedness on terms acceptable to us, or at all.
We are controlled by our principal stockholders.
Approximately 98.9% of our issued and outstanding capital stock is
beneficially owned, directly or indirectly, by the Maldonado Quiroga and
Maldonado Gonzalez families. As a result, the Maldonado Quiroga and Maldonado
Gonzalez families effectively control the outcome of all matters requiring a
stockholder vote, including the election of directors.
The interests of the Maldonado Quiroga and Maldonado Gonzalez families
could conflict with the interests of our creditors. For example, if we encounter
financial difficulties or are unable to pay our debts as they mature, the
interests of the Maldonado Quiroga and Maldonado Gonzalez families might
conflict with the interests of our creditors. The Maldonado Quiroga and
Maldonado Gonzalez families may also have an interest in pursuing acquisitions,
divestitures, financings or other transactions that, in their judgment, could
enhance their equity investments, even though such transactions might involve
risks to our creditors.
Various provisions of Mexican law may make it difficult for you to convert
payments you receive into U.S. dollars or may make it difficult for you to
recognize the full value of your payment.
We are required to make payments of amounts owed on our debt in U.S.
dollars. Under the Mexican Monetary Law (Ley Monetaria de los Estados Unidos
Mexicanos), however, obligations to make payments in Mexico in foreign currency,
whether by agreement or upon enforcement of a judgment, may be discharged in
Pesos at the rate of exchange for Pesos prevailing at the time and place of
payment or judgment. Accordingly we will be legally entitled to make payment of
amounts due on the Notes in Pesos if payment of the Notes is sought in Mexico
through the enforcement of a non-Mexican judgment or otherwise. If we elect to
make payments due on the Notes in Pesos in accordance with the Mexican Monetary
Law, we cannot assure you that the amounts paid would be convertible by the
payee into U.S. dollars or that, if convertible, such amounts would be
sufficient to purchase U.S. dollars equal to the amount of principal, interest
or Additional Amounts due on the Notes.
In the event of bankruptcy, you may find it difficult to collect under the
Notes.
Under Mexican law, if we are ever declared bankrupt or in judicial
reorganization (concurso mercantil) our obligations under the Notes (i) would be
converted into pesos and then converted from pesos into UDIs (defined below),
(ii) would be satisfied only at the time claims of all creditors are satisfied,
(iii) would be subject to the outcome of, and amounts recognized as due in
respect of, the relevant bankruptcy proceedings, (iv) would cease to accrue
interest and (v) would not be adjusted to take into account any depreciation of
the peso against the dollar occurring after the declaration of bankruptcy or
reorganization. UDIs are Unidades de Inversion (investment units), which are
units of account whose value in Mexican pesos is indexed to inflation on a daily
basis, as measured by the change in the Mexican National Consumer Price Index.
On December 31, 2001, one UDI was equal to Ps.3.055 (US$.33).
Developments in other emerging market countries and the United States may affect
the prices for our securities.
As is the case with respect to securities of issuers from other
emerging markets, the market value of securities of Mexican companies is, to
varying degrees, affected by economic and market conditions in other emerging
market countries. Although economic conditions in such countries may differ
significantly from economic conditions in Mexico, investors' reactions to
developments in any of these other countries may have an adverse effect on the
market value of securities of Mexican issuers. In recent years, prices of both
Mexican equity securities and Mexican debt securities dropped substantially as a
result of developments in Russia, Asia and Brazil. We cannot assure you that the
market value of the Notes would not be adversely affected by events elsewhere,
especially in emerging market countries.
Mexican securities markets are also influenced, to varying degrees, by
economic and market conditions in the United States. Mexican securities markets
may be negatively affected by rising interest rates in the United States and,
more generally, events that increase the opportunity cost of investing outside
the United States. If U.S. investors' willingness to invest in foreign
securities, such as the Notes, decreases because of an increase in opportunity
cost, the value of the Notes may decrease.
Risk Factors Relating to Doing Business in Mexico
If the peso devalues, it will be more difficult for us to repay our debt.
Substantially all of our debt obligations are denominated in U.S. dollars
while we generate revenues in pesos. Therefore, we are exposed to currency
exchange rate risks that could significantly affect our ability to meet our
obligations. We currently do not plan to enter into hedging transactions with
respect to these foreign currency risks, but we continue to consider the
appropriateness of this option. Mexico maintains a floating exchange rate
regime. Any significant decrease in the value of the peso relative to the U.S.
dollar in the near term may have a material adverse effect on our liquidity and
on our ability to meet our debt obligations. At December 31, 2001, a
hypothetical 10% devaluation of the peso relative to the U.S. dollar would give
us a Ps.447.9 million (US$44.4 million) exchange loss on our debt over a
one-year period. The peso has depreciated substantially against the U.S. dollar
in the past and may depreciate significantly in the future. Future declines in
the value of the peso relative to the U.S. dollar could adversely affect our
ability to meet U.S. dollar-denominated obligations because of the increase in
cost in pesos of our interest and principal payments. See "Item 5: Operating and
Financial Review and Prospects - Effect olf Devaluation and Infaltion" and "Item
11: Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk--Foreign Exchange
Rate Risk."
High levels of inflation and high interest rates in Mexico could adversely
affect our financial condition and results of operations.
Mexico has experienced high levels of inflation in recent years. The
annual rate of inflation, as measured by changes in the National Consumer Price
Index, was 12.3% for 1999, 9.0% for 2000, and 4.4% for 2001. In the past, high
rates of inflation have resulted in high interest rates; high interest rates in
Mexico may adversely affect our costs and thus our financial condition and
results of operations. On April 25, 2002, the yield on 28-day Mexican government
treasury certificates ("Cetes") was 5.28%.
Economic and political conditions and government policies could negatively
affect our profitability and operations.
We are a Mexican company, with substantially all of our operations
situated in Mexico. Approximately 94.7% of our revenues in 2001 and 94.4% of our
revenues in 2000 resulted from sales generated within Mexico. Mexico has
periodically experienced economic downturns characterized by periods of slow or
negative growth, high inflation, exchange rate volatility, declines in direct
and portfolio investment, high interest rates, reduced consumer purchasing power
and spending, and high unemployment. After 6.6% growth in 2000, Mexico's economy
contracted 0.3% during 2001, due primarily to slow economic growth in the United
States.
The Mexican government has exercised, and continues to exercise,
significant influence over the Mexican economy. Economic plans of the Mexican
government in the past have not, in certain respects, fully achieved their
objectives. We cannot assure you that current and future economic plans of the
Mexican government will achieve their stated goals. Similarly, we cannot
determine what effect these plans or their implementation will have on the
Mexican economy or on our business. Future Mexican governmental actions may
result in future political instability, currency instability or economic
deterioration, which could have a significant adverse effect on Mexican
companies (including ours), market conditions and prices and returns on Mexican
securities.
The loss of the presidency in 2000 by the former ruling party could affect
Mexican economic policy, which in turn could adversely affect the Mexican
economy.
In the Mexican national elections held on July 2, 2000, Vicente Fox of
the opposition party, the Partido Accion Nacional, or the National Action Party,
won the presidency. His victory ended more than 70 years of presidential rule by
the Partido Revolucionario Institucional or the Institutional Revolutionary
Party. Neither the Institutional Revolutionary party nor the National Action
Party succeeded in securing a majority in the House of Representatives or the
Senate. Although members of the National Action Party have governed several
states and municipalities, the National Action Party has not previously governed
on a national level. A change in economic policy, as well as currency or
political instability in Mexico, could adversely affect the Mexican economy,
which in turn could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial
condition and results of operations, as well as market conditions and prices for
our securities.
If exchange controls and restrictions are imposed, we may not be able to service
our debt in U.S. dollars, which could expose you to currency risk.
In the past, the Mexican economy has experienced balance of payment
deficits, shortages in foreign exchange reserves and other problems that have
affected the availability of foreign currencies in Mexico. The Mexican
government does not currently restrict or regulate the ability of persons or
entities to convert pesos into U.S. dollars. However, it has done so in the past
and could do so again in the future. We cannot assure you that the Mexican
government will not institute a restrictive exchange control policy in the
future. Any such restrictive exchange control policy could prevent or restrict
access to U.S. dollars and limit our ability to service our U.S.
dollar-denominated debt. We cannot assure you that such measures will not have a
material adverse effect on our debt.
Our financial statements may not result in the same information as financial
statements prepared under U.S. accounting rules.
Mexican companies, including Copamex, must prepare their financial
statements in accordance with Mexican GAAP. Mexican GAAP differs in significant
respects from U.S. GAAP, including, but not limited to, the treatment of
capitalized interest, deferred income taxes, minority interest, amortization of
negative goodwill and inventory valuations. In particular, all Mexican companies
must incorporate the effects of inflation directly in their accounting records
and in published financial statements. The effects of inflation accounting under
Mexican GAAP are not eliminated in a reconciliation to U.S. GAAP. For this and
other reasons, the presentation of Mexican financial statements and reported
earnings may differ from that of U.S. companies. See "Item 5: Operating and
Financial Review and Prospectus" and Note 17 to our audited consolidated
financial statements.
ITEM 4. INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY
Our Company
We are one of the leading producers of paper-based consumer products
and value-added industrial paper products, such as packaging and printing and
writing products, in terms of sales in Mexico. Since 1996, we have grown
consistently and have transformed ourselves from primarily a producer of
industrial paper products to one of the premier producers of paper-based
consumer products and value-added industrial paper products. We have a leading
portfolio of consumer brands. Our strategy is to focus on consumer products and
value-added packaging products and to grow our business through effective
marketing and the development of new innovative products, which we believe will
continue to diversify and increase our cashflows. We will also continue to look
for cost reduction opportunities, particularly in raw materials and through
manufacturing efficiencies. We will continue to maintain our competitive
advantage in outstanding customer service which has been achieved as a result of
our strategically located manufacturing and distribution facilities.
We were founded in 1928, when the Maldonado Quiroga family of
Monterrey, our controlling shareholders, started a paper business in Monterrey.
Since 1996, our business has grown through the combination of an aggressive
capital investment program and strategic acquisitions. Most of our acquisitions
and investments have been focused on the consumer products segment of our
business. The consumer products category will continue to be the most important
segment of our business because it enhances the stability in our cash flows and
it contributes significantly to our sales and EBITDA. We expect that, in the
future, the portion of our overall sales and EBITDA represented by our packaging
products division will also increase meaningfully.
The demand for our products has grown rapidly in the last five years,
and well in excess of the growth rate of the Mexican economy. For example,
demand for tissue paper has grown at an average annual rate of 7.6% per year
from 1997 to 2001, or 1.8 times as fast as the Mexican gross domestic product.
During the same period, demand for packaging paper has grown at an average
annual rate of 6.9% per year, or 1.6 times as fast as the Mexican gross domestic
product. We believe that two of the principal reasons for our growth have been
the historically low level of consumption of paper-based consumer products in
Mexico relative to the United States and the significant economic activity in
Mexico as a result of NAFTA. For example, for 2001, per capita consumption of
tissue products in Mexico was 28.4% of such per capita consumption in the United
States. We believe that these factors should continue to support relatively
large demand growth rates in the future and represent an attractive growth
opportunity for us.
We have also improved our cost structure through a strategy of
secondary fiber self-sufficiency. We have created the largest network of
recyclable paper collection centers in Mexico, with five collection centers, and
have established four collection centers in the southwestern United States. In
the year ended December 31, 2001, we supplied approximately 61.9% of our
secondary fiber requirements and 94.7% of our deinked pulp requirements.
o Our consumer products include bathroom and facial tissue, paper
towels, paper napkins, feminine-care products, away-from-home
products, adult incontinence products and notebooks. We also sell
and distribute baby diapers manufactured by our affiliate, Copamex
Higiene Infantil, S.A. de C.V. ("COHINSA"). Consumer products
accounted for approximately 47.4% of our net sales for the year
ended December 31, 2001.
o Our packaging products include multi-wall bags, kraft paper and
corrugated boxes. Packaging products accounted for approximately
24.4% of our net sales for the year ended December 31, 2001.
o Our printing and writing products include cut-sized, bond and
specialty papers. For the year ended December 31, 2001, printing
and writing paper (and other printing and writing products)
accounted for approximately 23.2% of our net sales, while specialty
paper accounted for approximately 5.0% of our net sales.
Selected Operating Highlights
Since 1996, our business has grown rapidly through the combination of
an aggressive capital investment program and targeted strategic acquisitions,
and we have transformed ourselves from being primarily a producer of industrial
paper products to one of the premier producers of paper-based consumer products
and value-added industrial paper products in terms of sales in Mexico. The
following are some of the highlights of our operating development:
o In October 1996, we entered the feminine-care market with our
acquisition of a 51% interest in Sancela, S.A. de C.V. ("Sancela"),
a company 49% of which is owned by SCA Hygiene Products, AB, a
leading European producer of tissue and feminine care products.
Since the acquisition, Sancela has nearly doubled its production
and is now able to produce over one billion units per year.
o In June 1997, we consolidated our position as a major tissue
company when we acquired a 67,000-ton-per-year tissue manufacturing
facility, the popular tissue brand name Regio and a renewable
25-year license for the popular facial tissue brand name Scottis.
o From 1996 through 1998, we strengthened our notebook market share
by acquiring the well-known brand name Shock and installing a
13,840 ton-per-year production plant. We also continued our
strategy of diversifying across consumer product lines by
introducing away-from-home products and importing and selling adult
incontinence products.
o In January 1998, we began to expand our presence in the Central
American market by starting operation of a 4,300 ton-per-year
tissue converting machine and a 21.6 million unit-per-year
multi-wall bag machine in Costa Rica. We continued this strategy in
the first quarter of 2000 by acquiring a 70% interest in Industrias
Unidas de Centroamerica, S.A., the only tissue paper producer in
Nicaragua.
o In July 2000, we commenced operation of a 31,000-ton-per-year
corrugated box plant in Monterrey, Mexico.
o In July 2000, we started to sell and distribute baby diapers
manufactured by an affiliated company, complementing our consumer
products portfolio. In February 2002 we launched an improved baby
diaper line under Copamex's trademark "DryKids."
o In February 2001, we ceased pulp production operations at our
Pondercel plant and began purchasing virgin pulp from third
parties. This cost savings measure, which has contributed to a
significant improvement in our gross margins for printing and
writing products, was instituted in response to declining prices of
virgin pulp and our increased pulp production costs.
o In October 2001, through a corporate restructuring, we acquired the
operations and operating assets of Corrugado y Fibra, S.A. de C.V.
("COFISA"), an affiliate of ours, which increased our consolidated
operating capacity of corrugated boxes by 31,000 metric tons per
year.
o In November 2001, we installed a production line for the
manufacture of adult incontinence products, with a production
capacity of 11.5 million units per year.
o In January 2002, we entered into a joint venture with Productos El
Cid, S.A. ("El Cid"), a Colombian manufacturer of notebooks,
through which our notebook brands and the brands of El Cid are
owned and operated.
The Mexican Consumer and Industrial Paper Products Market
General
Mexico's paper products market is the second largest in Latin America
after that of Brazil. According to estimates of the Mexican National Chamber of
the Pulp and Paper Industries, the total size of Mexico's paper products market
(including newsprint) in 2001, based on apparent demand, was 5,167,420 tons.
Apparent demand is calculated on the basis of domestic production reported by
Mexican manufacturers, plus imports and minus exports. Apparent demand is a
concept similar to consumption, except that it does not reflect increases or
decreases in inventories. Apparent demand will not replicate consumption in any
given year; however, over a period of years, the two measures should tend to
approximate one another. The total apparent demand in 2000 and in 2001 for the
Mexican pulp and paper industry was broken down as follows:
o tissue paper accounted for 12.7% in 2000 and 13.0% in 2001,
o packaging paper accounted for 54.1% in 2000 and 54.2% in 2001,
o printing and writing paper (including newsprint) accounted for
27.5% in 2000 and 27.6% in 2001, and
o specialty paper accounted for 5.7% in 2000 and 5.2% in 2001.
In 2001, Mexico had a production capacity of approximately 4.9 million
tons of paper. In the same year, approximately 3.8 million tons of paper were
produced, for a capacity utilization efficiency of 76.7%. During 2001, the
Mexican production of paper minus exports represented approximately 69.7% of
apparent demand, with imports accounting for the remaining 30.3%. In 2001, paper
production decreased by 2.2% while apparent demand decreased by 0.3%.
Approximately 5.4% of the Mexican production of paper was exported.
Tissue Paper
The table below shows historical Mexican apparent demand for tissue
paper in tons, calculated on the basis of domestic production of tissue paper
reported by Mexican manufacturers, plus imports and minus exports. Import data
includes only definitive imports and not products temporarily imported into
Mexico. This data was derived from industry studies prepared by the Mexican
National Chamber of the Pulp and Paper Industries.
Mexican Apparent Demand for Tissue Paper
(all figures in metric tons(1))
Period to
Apparent Period % Growth in
Year Production Imports Exports Demand Growth Rate Mexican GDP
- ---------- ---------- ------- ------- ------ ----------- -----------
1997................................ 595,476 19,969 75,987 539,458 15.6% 6.8%
1998................................ 621,566 36,735 79,602 578,699 7.3% 5.0%
1999................................ 661,522 47,019 90,232 618,309 6.8% 3.6%
2000................................ 691,213 65,733 98,790 658,156 6.4% 6.6%
2001................................ 688,694 86,546 104,470 670,770 1.9% (0.3%)
- ---------------
(1) 1 metric ton = 1.102 U.S. (short) tons.
Tissue paper includes, among other things, bathroom tissue, facial
tissue, paper towels and paper napkins. Apparent demand has increased at an
average annual rate of 7.6% per year from 1997 to 2001. Production and exports
have also grown in each of the last five years from 1997 to 2001 as a result of
increased demand both in and outside of Mexico. In 2001, tissue paper accounted
for 18.1% of Mexico's total paper production. During 2001, apparent demand for
tissue paper increased by 1.9%. The growth in production from 1997 to 2001 is
explained by greater demand and a corresponding increase in production capacity.
Apparent demand has grown because of increases in gross national product and
consumer buying power as well as the natural growth of the Mexican population.
Packaging Paper
The table below shows historical Mexican apparent demand for packaging
paper, including folding boxboard, in tons, calculated on the basis of domestic
production of packaging paper reported by Mexican manufacturers, plus imports
and minus exports. Import data includes only definitive imports and not products
temporarily imported into Mexico. This data was derived from industry studies
prepared by the Mexican National Chamber of the Pulp and Paper Industries.
Mexican Apparent Demand for Packaging Paper
(all figures in metric tons(1))
Period to
Apparent Period % Growth in
Year Production Imports Exports Demand Growth Rate Mexican GDP
- ---------- ---------- ------- ------- ------ ----------- -----------
1997................................ 1,956,656 368,636 65,644 2,259,648 12.0% 6.8%
1998................................ 2,093,492 404,907 58,959 2,439,440 8.0% 5.0%
1999................................ 2,167,651 530,857 82,822 2,615,686 7.2% 3.6%
2000................................ 2,235,317 630,334 61,032 2,804,619 7.2% 6.6%
2001................................ 2,193,296 676,217 66,057 2,803,456 (.04%) (0.3%)
- ---------------
(1) 1 metric ton = 1.102 U.S. (short) tons.
Packaging paper includes paper for multi-wall bags, wrapping,
linerboard, corrugated medium, folding boxboard, canes and tubes. The consumers
of multi-wall bags are primarily cement companies and, to a lesser extent, lime,
flour, pet food and chemical companies. The primary consumers for corrugated
boxes are the food, liquor and beer, paper, cleaning products and home appliance
industries. Apparent demand for packaging paper grew at an average annual rate
of 6.9% during the period from 1997 to 2001.
As the Mexican economy began to recover in 1997, apparent demand has
grown, leading to an increase in production and imports through 2001. For 2001,
packaging paper constituted 57.6% of the total paper production in Mexico.
During 2001, apparent demand for packaging paper decreased by 0.04%.
The increase in the consumption of packaging paper is the result of
increased use of containers, principally corrugated board boxes, as well as an
increase in the demand for multi-wall bags caused by a great economic upturn.
The increase in imports is the result of a stronger peso.
Printing and Writing Paper and Specialty Paper
Printing and Writing Paper. The table below shows historical Mexican
apparent demand for printing and writing paper in tons, calculated on the basis
of domestic production of printing and writing paper reported by Mexican
manufacturers, plus imports and minus exports. Import data includes only
definitive imports and not products temporarily imported into Mexico. This data
was derived from industry studies prepared by the Mexican National Chamber of
the Pulp and Paper Industries. It does not include apparent demand for specialty
paper and newsprint.
Mexican Apparent Demand for Printing and Writing Paper
(all figures in metric tons(1))
Period to
Apparent Period % Growth in
Year Production Imports Exports Demand Growth Rate Mexican GDP
- ---------- ---------- ------- ------- ------ ----------- -----------
1997................................ 629,845 246,062 15,269 860,638 22.3% 6.8%
1998................................ 619,761 246,164 24,771 841,154 (2.3%) 5.0%
1999................................ 698,276 291,125 24,722 964,679 14.7% 3.6%
2000................................ 688,282 350,545 17,614 1,021,213 5.9% 6.6%
2001................................ 658,430 371,300 13,436 1,016,294 (0.5%) (0.3%)
- ---------------
(1) 1 metric ton = 1.102 U.S. (short) tons.
Apparent demand in Mexico for printing and writing paper grew at an
average annual rate of 8.0% during the period from 1997 to 2001. In 1998, total
apparent demand for printing and writing paper decreased because of a general
slowdown in the Mexican economy. The Mexican government, in particular, reduced
its budget and, as a result, decreased its printing and writing paper demand.
In 2001, printing and writing paper (not including newsprint) accounted
for 17.3% of Mexico's total paper production. Bond and coated paper accounts for
much of the apparent demand for the printing and writing paper. During 2001,
apparent demand for printing and writing paper decreased by 0.5%.
In general, Mexico receives more imports of printing and writing paper
in times of low global demand if, after giving effect to the cost of freight and
the value of the peso relative to foreign currencies, foreign producers can
still sell competitively in Mexico.
Specialty Paper. Specialty paper includes paper that has undergone
special additional processes and all other paper products that do not clearly
fall under the other paper classifications. This sector is dominated by imports,
which have represented at least 85% of apparent demand in the last five years.
Production has remained relatively stagnant in the last five years because there
has not been further investment in capacity for specialty paper products. In
2001, specialty paper accounted for 0.8% of Mexico's total paper production.
Exports are insignificant. See "--Our Products--Printing and Writing
Paper--Specialty Paper."
Pricing
For similar-quality products, Mexican consumer and industrial paper
product prices tend to roughly approximate United States prices plus freight
cost and tariffs. Competition within Mexico also has an effect on prices, and
this effect is most significant on consumer products. The international price of
pulp and paper also affects prices, and this effect is most significant on
printing and writing products. In addition, because the paper industry is highly
capital intensive, prices may also be affected by industry capacity-utilization
rates and by significant additions of new capacity. See "Item 5: Operating and
Financial Review and Prospects--Mexican Economic Factors" and "--The
International Pulp and Paper Products Market."
We believe that, because we convert the paper we produce into
value-added products such as bathroom and facial tissue, away-from-home
products, notebooks, multi-wall bags, cardboard corrugated boxes and copying
paper, our exposure to industry pricing cycles is mitigated because,
historically, fluctuations in prices for converted products have been less than
fluctuations in prices for unconverted paper.
The prices of our products in Mexico are also affected by a number of
other factors, including:
o brand image,
o customer service,
o quality control,
o proximity to customers and industrial centers,
o specifications,
o volume of production runs,
o the cost of transporting products, and resistance specifications.
NAFTA has reduced trade barriers among the United States, Mexico and
Canada. At the time NAFTA was adopted, multi-wall bags and industrial and tissue
paper in Mexico were protected by a 10% tariff. Under NAFTA, tariffs and other
barriers have been gradually disappearing. Mexico maintained a protective tariff
on kraft paper for bags, multi-wall bags, tissue paper and glassine paper of 1%
in 2002, which will decline to 0% in 2003. Mexico does not impose a tariff on
all other paper products originating from the United States.
We do not believe that the elimination of Mexican tariffs under NAFTA
has affected or will affect our competitive position in any meaningful way. We
believe that tariffs on paper products before NAFTA were not significant enough
to deter competition from American and Canadian companies. In addition, we
believe that Mexican companies in our industry already had developed
international efficiency and quality standards to compete effectively against
foreign products before the tariffs were reduced. We also believe that NAFTA may
tend to shorten the lag time between price changes in the U.S. and Mexican
packaging and paper industries and provide us with increased opportunities for
the export of our products.
In October 1998, following antidumping investigations on cut-sized bond
paper imports from the United States, Mexico imposed countervailing duties
ranging from 5.3% to 17.7% on imports from U.S. producers. Under Mexican law, a
countervailing duty remains in effect for five years but is subject to annual
review by the Ministry of Economy (Secretaria de Economia) and may be increased,
reduced, extended or canceled. According to the Foreign Trade Law (Ley de
Comercio Exterior), such countervailing duties may be further extended in
addition to the original five-year term, in the event that the competent Mexican
authority determines that eliminating the countervailing duty would give place
to the occurrence of an unfair practice and that such practice would cause a
material damage to the national industry.
Mexico entered into a trade agreement with the European Union in the
second half of 2000, but we do not believe that we face significantly increased
competition from any country outside of North or Central America, because
shipping costs represent a significant barrier to enter the Mexican market from
those countries. The tariff imposed by Mexico on the consumer paper products
that we manufacture is 20% and on the industrial paper products that we
manufacture is 13% for all countries not having any trade agreement with Mexico.
Our Products
Our production can be divided into three main product groups:
o the consumer products group, which sells or distributes adult
incontinence products and baby diapers and produces bathroom and
facial tissue, paper towels, paper napkins, feminine-care products,
away-from-home products and notebooks,
o the packaging products group, which produces kraft paper,
multi-wall bags and corrugated boxes, and
o the printing and writing products group, which produces cut-sized
paper, bond paper and specialty paper.
The tables below present our (1) sales by division for the years 1999,
2000 and 2001 and (2) total actual production in tons, unless otherwise
indicated, and operating rate for 2001 by product, respectively.
Year Ended December 31,
-----------------------------------
1999 2000 2001
-------- -------- --------
Millions of constant
December 31, 2001 pesos
Consumer Products.................................... Ps.3,029 Ps.3,575 Ps.3,610
Packaging Products................................... 1,762 1,841 1,862
Printing and Writing Products........................ 2,277 2,451 2,146
-------- -------- --------
Total................................................ Ps.7,068 Ps.7,867 Ps.7,618
======== ======== ========
Operating
Actual Rate
Product Category Production (in %)
- -------------------- ---------- ---------
Consumer Products
Tissue products.................................................. 132,962 91.4
Feminine-care products(1)........................................ 1,220 83.6
Adult Incontinence Products(2)................................... 700 6.1(3)
Baby Diapers(1).................................................. 201.7 42.0
Away-from-home products.......................................... 5,296 66.2
Notebooks........................................................ 3,359 24.3
Packaging Products
Kraft paper...................................................... 220,838 91.3
Multi-wall bags(1)............................................... 477 82.8
Corrugated boxes................................................. 55,421 89.4
Printing and Writing Products
Printing and writing paper....................................... 188,698 82.0
Specialty paper.................................................. 24,228 86.5
- ---------------
(1) In millions of units.
(2) In thousands of units. We began producing adult incontinence products in
November 2001.
(3) On an annualized basis. Our operating rate for the two months ended
December 31, 2001 was 36.5%.
Consumer Products
Tissue Products. We are the second largest producer in Mexico of tissue
products such as bathroom and facial tissue, paper towels and paper napkins. We
sell these products primarily under our own or licensed brand names through
retail stores and wholesalers. Our leading brands include Regio, Lovly, Tessy
and Flen for bathroom tissue, paper napkins and paper towels, Scottis for facial
tissue and Boreal for paper towels and napkins. We also manufacture private or
generic consumer products for sale by large retail stores under their own brand
names, and we are the largest producer in Mexico of such products. In 2001,
approximately 80.3% of our tissue sales were comprised of our brands, 17.4% were
comprised of the private or generic brand names of our consumer products
customers and 2.3% were jumbo rolls. Our installed capacity for tissue paper
products is 145,500 tons, but we intend to make a net increase in installed
capacity of 36,000 tons within the next year.
Feminine-Care Products. We are the second largest manufacturer of
feminine-care products in Mexico. We sell our extensive line of products to the
public under the brand name Saba, which is the number one brand in Mexico in
terms of sales, through retail stores in Mexico. Our feminine-care products are
made using some of the latest technology available for the manufacture of such
products. In 2001, we produced 1,219.9 million units of feminine care products.
Adult-Incontinence Products. We began to offer adult-incontinence
products in 1998 under the brand name Tena. We sell these products to the public
through retail stores and drugstores in Mexico. Beginning in November 2001, we
began manufacturing these products. We are the number one producer in Mexico in
terms of sales of "heavy" adult incontinence products, which are designed for
persons with serious incontinence problems and the number two producer in Mexico
in terms of sales of "light" adult incontinence products, which are designed for
persons whose incontinence problems are less serious.
Baby Diapers. We offer baby diapers under the brand name DryKids
(launched in February 2002) and other private brands. Our baby diaper products
are currently manufactured by our affiliate, COHINSA. We sell these products to
the public through retail stores and drugstores in Mexico with respect to the
DryKids brand and to wholesalers with respect to private brands. See "Item 7:
Major Shareholders and Related Party Transcations--Related Transactions."
Away-From-Home-Products. We are the third largest manufacturer of
away-from-home products in Mexico. Away-from-home products include bathroom
tissue, rolled towels and folded towels that are typically used in restaurants,
hotels, office buildings and factories. We also sell soap and paper dispensers
to complete our portfolio of away-from-home products. We currently have an
installed capacity of 8,000 tons per year, but we intend to increase capacity in
this business segment within the next year.
Notebooks. We are the third largest manufacturer of notebooks in
Mexico. We produce our notebooks using internally-produced bond paper. The
notebooks are then sold to the public through retail stores under our brand
names, including Shock, which is one of the leading brand names in Mexico. In
January 2002, we entered into a joint venture with El Cid, a Colombian
manufacturer of notebooks, whose brands, El Cid, Leather Concept, Eco Planet,
Basket, Pits, Monuments and Stone Graphix were contributed to the joint venture,
which, together with the expertise provided by the personnel of El Cid, will
allow us to enter the premium and super premium notebook markets.
Packaging Products
Packaging Paper. We are the largest producer in Mexico of kraft paper
in terms of production volume for multi-wall bags. Kraft paper is made from
secondary fiber. We use kraft paper in the production of:
o multi-wall bags for packaging cement, lime, corn flour, gypsum, pet
food and chemical products,
o natural color bags for use in consumer goods stores and white color
bags to pack flour, and
o corrugated boxes for multiple packaging applications.
We are able to produce a wide variety of kraft paper, in terms of
weight, consistency and resistance to achieve the characteristics required by
customers. Kraft paper is sold in rolls of varying widths, depending on the
capacity of the converting machinery on which it will be used. Our production of
kraft paper, which is manufactured at two of our paper mills, reached 220,838
tons in 2001 and satisfied our entire requirements for the manufacture of
multi-wall bags. Approximately 48.2% of our kraft paper was used to make
finished products for internal use and the remainder was sold to third parties.
Multi-Wall Bags. We are the leading manufacturer in Mexico in terms of
units produced of multi-wall bags. Our multi-wall bags are sold to the largest
Mexican cement, pet food, chemical products, gypsum, corn flour and lime
producers. We produce a wide variety of bags, including pasted valve, sewn open
mouth, pinch bottom and laminated bags. Our multi-wall bags are high-resistance
containers that are designed to be reliable in adverse filling, handling,
transportation, warehousing and distribution conditions. The multi-wall bags are
made from kraft paper also produced by us. Our production of multi-wall bags,
manufactured at five packaging plants located in Mexico and one packaging plant
located in Costa Rica, reached 477.1 million bags in 2001.
Corrugated Boxes. We began production of corrugated boxes in July 2000
through the installation of a 31,000 ton per year production line. In addition,
in April, 2000, one of our affiliates purchased Corrugado y Fibra, S.A. de C.V.,
which owned a 31,000 ton per year corrugated container plant. The operations and
operating assets of the plant were acquired by us in a corporate restructuring,
allowing us to have, in 2001, an installed capacity in our corrugated boxes
division of 62,000 tons. We make our corrugated boxes using internally-produced
kraft paper. We produce corrugated boxes of various grades and sizes, with high
quality graphics and design features and both natural kraft and bleached liners.
We use a portion of our production internally and sell the remainder to Mexican
industrial products companies.
Printing and Writing Products
Printing and Writing Paper. We are the second largest producer in
Mexico in terms of production volume of bond paper, the paper commonly used for
printing, writing and photocopying. Bond paper is made from bleached pulp using
short and long fibers and, for certain types of bond paper, deinked pulp and has
a smooth, fine appearance. We produce bond paper, which includes notebook paper,
white cardboard paper and copy paper, mainly for the commercial sector for use
in typing and printing by publishing houses and lithographers in the preparation
of books, continuous forms and lottery tickets, for copying by high-speed
copying machines and for stencil machines. We are the only producer of
carbonless paper in Mexico.
We have the production capability and technical expertise to produce a
wide variety of bond paper, including high-quality cut-sized bond paper, in
order to meet the demands of our customers. In 2001, we produced 188,698 tons of
bond paper at four of our paper mills. We are qualified to sell our cut-sized
bond paper to Xerox for resale under the Xerox brand. We also sell bond paper
under our brands Facia, Vision and Fastway. In 2001, approximately 94% of our
bond paper production was sold to consumers, of which approximately 79.4% of
which was sold as cut-sized bond paper.
Although we still produce bond paper at our Pondercel paper mill, we
ceased production of virgin pulp at our Pondercel pulp mill in February 2001 and
began to import our full virgin pulp requirements. This cost savings measure was
instituted in response to declining prices of virgin pulp and our increased
costs of pulp production.
We continuously review our printing and writing products operations in
order to identify alternatives and opportunities to further enhance the cash
flow of our overall business. The focus of this review may include: (a) possible
changes in our printing and writing operations designed to enable us to maintain
a leadership position in the market and ensure long-term competitiveness, and
(b) consideration of other alternatives for the future of these operations,
including a possible sale.
Specialty Paper. We are the largest manufacturer in Mexico in terms of
production volume of specialty paper products for both industrial and consumer
products companies. Our production of specialty paper, which is manufactured at
two of our paper mills, reached 24,228 tons in 2001. The table below presents
these products and their application. These are niche-market products.
Product Application
- ------- -----------
Cookie liner Resists humidity and grease; used for packing cookies.
Humidity-resistant paper For milk containers, milk and cheese packaging and paper cones.
Candy cup stock For chocolate, candy and biscuit packing.
Release paper For the back of self-adhering labels.
Wax base paper For the bags in cereal boxes and for packing popsicles.
Opaque glassine Grease-resistant, for printing and lamination.
Full liner Aluminum-laminated paper for packing food products.
Anti-mold paper Treated with anti-fungal agents for wrapping soaps.
Surgical wrap For packaging syringes.
Liner For lining carton cylinders.
Carbonless paper For airplane tickets, bank deposit slips and other types of
payment slips.
Sales, Marketing & Distribution
We currently use multiple marketing strategies for each of our product
categories, which vary and depend on the particular product line. The focus of
our strategy is to increase our geographic coverage and market share.
For the consumer products segment of our business especially, we
continuously seek to introduce new designs for our products that are
complementary to our existing products. This strategy allows us to leverage our
loyal customer base and to increase sales. Additionally, through this strategy
we are able to maintain and enhance the image and name of our products in the
marketplace. We are also developing line extensions for our existing products to
allow us to offer products in different price points. This allows our customers
to move up or down the quality spectrum depending on their economic status.
Our advertising strategy includes:
o television and radio advertising campaigns for up to 50 weeks,
o advertising campaigns in news print media,
o direct mail campaigns to consumers, and
o telephone marketing campaigns via our toll-free numbers.
We also periodically run special promotions for trial and awareness of
certain products, which include bonus packs, back-to-school promotions and
samples. We also license well-known images and brand names, such as Disney
characters, to help promote new consumer products. Some of our television
advertisements have been awarded prizes or have been otherwise acknowledged by
advertising agency associations in the United States, Mexico, Argentina and
Panama.
For our industrial paper products, our focus is to increase market
share through improvements in quality, service and customer orientation. Our
emphasis on quality is exemplified by requirements we have met and surpassed to
receive certain certifications, such as ISO 9002 in five of our plants. We also
have the capability to customize our products to meet specific customer
requirements and have a technical support staff in place to assist our customers
after the point of sale.
The marketing and promotion of our industrial paper products is focused
on attending and sponsoring various conventions, fairs and expositions and
advertising in trade magazines. We regularly have booths and provide technical
presentations at such events.
In addition to our marketing staff, we maintain a large specialized
sales force. Our sales force serves the dual purpose of maintaining good
customer relations through constant and direct contact with consumers and
continuing the development of our relationships with key distributors.
Our sales offices in Monterrey, Mexico City and Guadalajara handle the
promotion and sale of our products. We sell on the basis of a single price list,
though discounts may be given for clients who meet certain standards, including
volume. We generally make our sales on the basis of periodic purchase orders at
current prices referenced to international market prices. We do not have
long-term supply contracts with our customers.
We have a distribution system comprised of distribution centers
covering every principal geographic area of Mexico, including the cities of
Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Culiacan, Torreon, Tijuana and
Villahermosa. Our distribution system includes eight distribution centers for
our consumer products and three distribution centers for both our printing and
writing products and packaging products divisions, allowing reliable and prompt
delivery.
All of our consumer products and printing and writing products are
processed through our distribution centers. Approximately 51% of our industrial
paper products are sent directly to our major customers while the remaining 49%
are processed through our distribution centers. We also use wholesalers to reach
our small retail and industrial customers and in regions that are far from our
distribution centers.
Approximately 92% of our shipments are handled by external freight
transportation service providers and the remaining 8% are handled by our own
fleet. Our fleet includes both owned and leased trucks and trailers. We are
currently increasing our fleet selectively on our principal routes to reduce
logistical costs.
In Central America, we use distributors and sales agents to distribute
our products, except tissue jumbo rolls, in Nicaragua, Guatemala, El Salvador,
Honduras, and Panama. In Costa Rica, we distribute our products through a
subsidiary, except for away-from-home products, which we distribute through a
third party distributor.
We do not have exclusivity arrangements with any of our distributors.
Customers
In the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2001, our ten largest
customers accounted for approximately 28.5% of our net sales. No customer
accounted for more than 5.3% of our net sales in such period. We do not believe
that the loss of any single customer would have a material adverse effect on our
business.
Our customer base by product category is as follows:
Product Category Customer Base
- ---------------- -------------
Consumer Products:
Tissue products For our brands, wholesalers, large Mexican
retail stores, convenience stores, pharmacies
and government stores and, for private label
products, large Mexican retail stores.
Feminine-care products Wholesalers, large Mexican retail stores,
convenience stores, pharmacies and government
stores.
Adult incontinence products Wholesalers, large Mexican retail stores,
convenience stores, government stores and
pharmacies.
Baby diapers Wholesalers, large Mexican retail stores,
convenience stores, government stores and
pharmacies.
Away-from-home products Restaurants, hotels, office buildings, and
factories.
Notebooks Wholesalers, large Mexican retail stores,
convenience stores and government stores.
Packaging Products:
Packaging paper Industrial sector companies in Mexico that
manufacture bags for the packaging of
industrial products.
Multi-wall bags Companies in Mexico and abroad that
manufacture and pack cement, corn flour,
gypsum, lime, pet food and chemical products.
Corrugated boxes Mexican industrial products companies.
Printing and Writing Products:
Printing and writing paper Commercial sector companies in Mexico,
(bond paper) consisting of printers, editors and
lithographers, and governmental agencies.
Specialty paper Industrial and commercial sector companies in
Mexico depending on the specific use of the
product.
Manufacturing Operations
Raw Materials
Raw materials constituted approximately 75.3% of our total cost of
sales in 2001. The principal raw materials used in our paper production
processes are virgin pulp, recyclable paper, chemicals, energy and water.
Virgin Pulp. Virgin pulp, which is made from wood, is a principal raw
material used in manufacturing printing and writing products and we import our
full virgin pulp requirements. We now obtain our virgin fiber from U.S.,
Canadian, Brazilian and Asian producers. We believe that it is unlikely that we
will have any problems obtaining virgin pulp in the future because of our
long-standing reciprocal relationship with our suppliers and the general
availability of virgin pulp at prevailing international market prices. See "Item
5: Operating and Financial Review and Prospects--The International Pulp and
Paper Products Market."
Recyclable Paper. Secondary fiber, which is made from recyclable paper,
is the preferred raw material for the production of kraft paper used in
packaging and, if the recyclable paper is of deinking grade quality, for the
production of tissue paper and printing and writing paper. We collect recyclable
paper and cardboard in Mexico and in the United States. The recyclable paper we
collect represented approximately 62% of our secondary fiber needs in 2001. We
purchased the remaining approximately 38% from a wide number of suppliers
located in Mexico and in different areas of the United States. We also
occasionally sell recyclable paper that does not meet our specifications for the
production of paper products to third parties. We believe that it is unlikely
that we will encounter significant difficulties in obtaining recyclable paper at
reasonable prices because of the large supply currently available in the United
States.
We believe that we have the largest recyclable paper collection system
in Mexico in terms of tonnage. We collect recyclable paper and cardboard from
large industrial customers such as Ford Motor Company and General Motors
Corporation and from large retail customers such as Wal-Mart and Target. We
generally enter into one-or two-year collection contracts whereby we pick up the
recyclable paper and cardboard at our customers' stores and plants and pay a
negotiated price per ton. We have established nine collection centers in Mexico
and the United States for receipt of both collected and unsolicited recyclable
paper and cardboard. See "--Property, Plants and Equipment."
We believe that recyclable paper should become more available as the
Mexican population is made more aware of the impact of recycling on the
environment. To this effect, we have instituted a program called Recicla y Gana,
or Recycle and Win, whereby people are encouraged to bring their recyclable
paper to local retail store chains in exchange for coupons for use in such
stores.
Energy and Chemicals. We purchase the power requirements for our
production facilities, except the Pondercel plant, from the Federal Electricity
Commission or the Comision Federal de Electricidad, the Mexican state-owned
electric company. The Pondercel plant generates its own power from an adjacent
energy plant which is normally powered by fuel oil, but which has the capacity
to be powered by gas when it is necessary or cost effective to do so. We are
contemplating certain arrangements with regard to our energy requirements,
including possible cogeneration agreements with third parties in some of our
plants.
We use chemicals such as colorants, plastifiers, fungicides and fillers
in the production of paper, particularly specialty paper. These chemicals are
purchased from Mexican suppliers.
Water. The paper production process requires the use of significant
volumes of water. As some of our mills are located in areas where water is
scarce and therefore expensive, we seek to use it efficiently. We have installed
water recycling facilities in all of our mills. We believe that our water
supplies are sufficient for all existing and contemplated activities. At some of
our plants we have constructed wells to supply our water needs.
We have obtained all necessary permits and concessions for these wells
from the National Water Commission. In 2001, we took advantage of a 20% discount
on the rights payable for water intakes from water wells, pursuant to an
amendment to the Mexican Law of Federal Rights or Ley Federal de Derechos. This
Law also provides the discount for 2002, although the transitory section
provides for certain conditions for the applicability of such discount. The
analysis and approach taken by all companies affiliated to the Mexican National
Chamber of the Pulp and Paper Industries, is that the discount continues to
apply. Our other plants use municipal water supplies.
In Ecatepec, we receive all of the water we use at our tissue
production plant from Kimberly Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. ("KCM"), one of our
competitors, pursuant to an agreement that expires in 2003. We believe that KCM
will renew that contract because it allows KCM to share its water costs with us.
If KCM terminates the contract, we will be required to procure water directly
from the municipality of Ecatepec. In the event of such termination, we cannot
assure you that the municipality of Ecatepec will have sufficient water to
supply our needs, or, if so, whether payments for such water would be at market
rates.
Insurance
The following are the most important insurance policies we maintain:
o all risk insurance for our plants and machinery for up to US$210
million per event which includes coverage for physical damages and
interruption of operations and is subject to various sub-limits.
Our all risk insurance covers lost profits after the first seven
days of inoperability.
o civil liability insurance with a US$6 million combined limit per
event. The policy covers civil liability in respect of fixed assets
and activities, products sold in Mexico and abroad, including in
the United States and Canada, and leases.
o all risk freight insurance for up to Ps.12.5 million per shipment.
This insurance covers shipments originating from any point in the
world with destinations to any other point in the world.
We do not have any outstanding or uncollected insurance claims.
Intellectual Property
We own and have duly registered in Mexico all of our brands. We have
also registered our principal brands in Central America. See "--Market Share and
Competition."
We also license the right to use Disney characters in our promotional
materials and packaging, generally pursuant to one-year agreements that we
regularly renew. We use the Scottis brand for our facial tissue pursuant to a
25-year license from KCM that is royalty free and renewable at our discretion.
We can use the Scottis and Regio brands only in Mexico. For our feminine-care
and adult-incontinence products, we use production technology developed by SCA
Hygiene Products, AB, our joint venture partner in Sancela, pursuant to a
license agreement.
Environmental Matters
In each jurisdiction in which we operate, our business operations and
facilities are subject to stringent and complex laws and regulations relating to
pollution, protection of public health and the environment, and employee safety
and health. In Mexico, our operations are subject to the Mexican General Law of
Ecological Balance and Environmental Protection, or Ley General del Equilibrio
Ecologico y Proteccion al Ambiente, and the rules published thereunder, and
various state and municipal laws. In accordance with this ecological law,
companies engaged in industrial activities such as ours are subject to the
regulatory jurisdiction of:
o the Ministry of the Environment and Natural Resources, or
Secretaria de Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales, which has broad
discretion in carrying out its statutory mandate,
o the National Institute of Ecology, or Instituto Nacional de
Ecologia, its regulatory arm, and
o the Office of the Attorney General for Protection of the
Environment, or Procuraduria Federal de Proteccion al Ambiente,
known as Profepa, its enforcement arm.
As part of its enforcement powers, the Ministry of the Environment and
Natural Resources, through Profepa, is empowered to bring administrative
proceedings against companies that violate environmental laws, to impose
economic sanctions and to temporarily or permanently close non-complying
facilities. Under the ecological law, the Mexican government has implemented an
aggressive program to protect the environment by promulgating rules concerning
water, land, air and noise pollution, hazardous substances and wastes.
The Ministry of the Environment and Natural Resources adopted standards
governing the quality of discharged water, which became effective on January 1,
2000 with respect to our Pondercel plant in Anahuac, Chihuahua and January 1,
2001 with respect to our Industrial Papelera Mexicana plant in Uruapan,
Michoacan. We have invested approximately US$6.4 million on the water treatment
plants at such facilities. We believe that we are in compliance with applicable
water discharge standards. We estimate that we will spend approximately US$8.4
million within the next five years on environmental compliance efficiency
upgrades, upgrades resulting from increased production and water treatment for
use in the production process. See "Item 3: Key Information--Risk Factors--Risk
Factors Relating to Our Operations--Our environmental compliance costs could
increase in the future."
Historically, Mexico's environmental laws have not been enforced as
vigorously as have environmental laws in the United States. In connection with
NAFTA, the United States, Mexico and Canada entered into a side agreement
pursuant to which the Mexican government agreed to enhance compliance with and
enforcement of its existing environmental laws and regulations. The side
agreement also created the trilateral Commission on the Environment, which is
empowered to review submissions from persons asserting that any of the parties
is failing to enforce effectively its environmental laws. The Commission on the
Environment must then decide first, whether a response should be requested from
the relevant party and second, whether to prepare a factual record concerning
the submission.
The parties also agreed that persons may request a given country's
authorities to investigate alleged violations of its environmental laws and that
persons with legally recognized interests will have access to administrative,
quasi-judicial or judicial proceedings for the enforcement of environmental
laws, including, in accordance with such country's law, the right to sue for
damages or to seek sanctions or injunctions. The side agreement also allows any
party to object to another party's persistent pattern of failure to effectively
enforce its environmental law. If such a pattern is established and not
remedied, it may lead under certain circumstances to a monetary assessment
against that party and/or a suspension of NAFTA benefits for that party or
parties. We cannot assure you that our operations will not be subject to more
strict Mexican federal or state environmental laws or more strict interpretation
or enforcement of those laws in the future.
We believe that our operations and properties are in substantial
compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations. However, the
nature of our operations expose us to the risk of claims with respect to
environmental matters and there can be no assurance that material costs or
liabilities will not be incurred in connection with such claims. Based on our
experience to date, we believe that the future costs of compliance with existing
environmental claims pursuant to such laws will not have a material adverse
effect on our business, financial position or results of operations. However,
future events such as changes in existing environmental laws or their
interpretation, more vigorous enforcement policies of regulatory agencies and
new information may give rise to additional expenditures or liabilities that
could be material.
Information Systems
Because we have grown in part through acquisitions, our operating
system platforms and applications have included a variety of hardware and
software owned by the companies that we have acquired. During 2000 and 2001 we
upgraded our hardware and software, implemented an integrated, uniform and more
reliable information system (CopamexPro) and trained our employees on the use of
this system. This system, which is already in use in our consumer products
division, may be phased into our other operations in the future and should
optimize inventory levels and reduce the aging of receivables. We also believe
that this system will increase our profitability, improve customer service and
increase employee efficiency.
Corporate Information and Organizational Structure
Our full legal name is Copamex, S.A. de C.V. and we were registered as
a corporation (sociedad anonima de capital variable) in Monterrey Mexico under
the Mexican Companies Law (Ley General de Sociedades Mercantiles) on December
30, 1975 with a corporate life of 99 years. The address of our principal
executive office is Montes Apalaches 101, Residencial San Agustin, San Pedro
Garza Garcia, Nuevo Leon, 66260 Mexico and our telephone number is (52) (81)
8152-6000.152-6000.
The table and diagram below set forth our most important subsidiaries
as of June 1, 2002.
Jurisdiction of Percentage
Name of Company Establishment Owned(1)
--------------- ----------
Copamex Papeles para Escritura e Impresion, S.A. de C.V. .......... Mexico 99.99%
Pondercel, S.A. de C.V.................................... Mexico 99.99
Comercializadora Copamex, S.A. de C.V..................... Mexico 99.99
Copamex Empaque, S.A. de C.V....................................... Mexico 99.99
Sacos y Envases Industriales, S.A. de C.V................. Mexico 99.99
Copamex Corrugados, S.A. de C.V........................... Mexico 90.00
Papelera de Chihuahua, S.A. de C.V........................ Mexico 99.99
Maquinaria y Equipo Pachisa, S.A. de C.V. ................ Mexico 99.99
Maquinaria y Equipo Papelera, S.A. de C.V................. Mexico 99.80
Cia. Papelera Maldonado, S.A. de C.V...................... Mexico 99.99
Maquinaria y Equipo Seisa, S.A. de C.V.................... Mexico 99.99
Copamex Productos al Consumidor, S.A. de C.V....................... Mexico 99.99
Sancela, S.A. de C.V...................................... Mexico 51.00
Industrial Papelera Mexicana, S.A. de C.V................. Mexico 99.99
Papeles Higienicos de Mexico, S.A. de C.V................. Mexico 99.99
Papeles Higienicos del Centro, S.A. de C.V................ Mexico 99.99
Copamex Comercial, S.A. de C.V............................ Mexico 99.99
Others
Corporativo Copamex, S.A. de C.V................................... Mexico 99.99
Grupo Copamex de Centroamerica, S.A............................... Costa Rica 99.99
Industrias Unidas de Centroamerica, S.A........................... Nicaragua 70.00
- -------------
(1) Percentage of equity capital owned by us directly or indirectly through
subsidiaries.
Property, Plants and Equipment
The table below presents our total annual installed capacity by product
category as of December 31, 2001, and actual production and utilization for
2001. Annual installed capacity was calculated on the basis of 24-hour, 365
days' continuous production. Actual production is expressed in tons, unless
otherwise noted.
Operating
Product Actual Rate
Category Production (in %)
- -------------- ---------- ---------
Consumer Products
Tissue products........................................ 132,962 91.4
Feminine-care products(1).............................. 1,220 83.6
Adult Incontinence Products(2)......................... 700 6.1(3)
Baby Diapers(1)........................................ 201.7 42.0
Away-from-home products................................ 5,296 66.2
Notebooks.............................................. 3,359 24.3
Packaging Products
Kraft paper............................................ 220,838 91.3
Multi-wall bags(1)..................................... 477 82.8
Corrugated boxes....................................... 55,421 89.4
Printing and Writing Products
Printing and writing paper............................. 188,698 82.0
Specialty paper........................................ 24,228 86.5
- ---------------
(1) In millions of units.
(2) In thousands of units. We began producing adult incontinence products in
November 2001.
(3) On an annualized basis. Our operating rate for the two months ended December
31, 2001 was 36.5%.
Our various production facilities are located in the Mexican states of
Nuevo Leon, Chihuahua, Jalisco, Puebla, Mexico, Michoacan, Queretaro and in
Mexico City. Our production and conversion facilities outside of Mexico are
located in Nicaragua and Costa Rica. We own all of our facilities. The table
below sets forth certain information regarding the corporate owner of, location
of and products manufactured at our significant facilities.
Plant (Location) Activity
---------------- --------
1. Consumer Products Group
Papeles Higienicos del Centro, S.A. de C.V. (Ecatepec, Estado de Mexico)... Tissue paper production; Production
of away-from-home products
Papeles Higienicos de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. (San Nicolas de los Garza, Nuevo Tissue paper production; De-inking of
Leon)...................................................................... recyclable paper
Industrial Papelera Mexicana, S.A. de C.V. (Uruapan, Michoacan)............ Tissue paper production; De-inking of
recyclable paper
Sancela, S.A. de C.V. (Ecatepec, Estado de Mexico)......................... Production of feminine-care products
Inpamex Planta Huehuetoca, S.A. de C.V. (Huehuetoca, Estado de Mexico)..... Production of notebooks;
Polyethylene-laminated paper
production for the further production
of bags
Industrias Unidas de Centroamerica, S.A. (Granada, Nicaragua).............. Tissue paper production
Grupo Copamex de Centroamerica, S.A. (San Jose, Costa Rica)................ Conversion of tissue paper into
napkins and bathroom tissue
Copamex Higiene Infantil, S.A. de C.V.(1) ................................. Production of Baby Diapers
2. Packaging Products Group
Papelera de Chihuahua, S.A. de C.V. (Chihuahua, Chihuahua)................. Kraft paper production
Cia. Papelera Maldonado, S.A. de C.V. (San Nicolas de los Garza, Nuevo Leon) Kraft paper production
Sacos y Envases Industriales, S.A. de C.V. (San Nicolas de los Garza, Nuevo Glued bags production
Leon)......................................................................
Sacos y Envases Industriales, S.A. de C.V. (Guadalajara, Jalisco).......... Sewn bags production
Sacos y Envases Industriales, S.A. de C.V. (Tehuacan, Puebla).............. Sewn and glued bags production
Sacos y Envases Industriales, S.A. de C.V. (Tlalnepantla, Mexico, D.F.).... Pet food and pinch bottom bags and
bags production
Copamex Corrugados, S.A. de C.V. (Atzcapozalco, Mexico, D.F.).............. Corrugated boxes
Sacos y Envases Industriales, S.A. de C.V. (Chihuahua, Chihuahua).......... Glued bags production
Copamex Corrugados, S.A. de C.V. (San Nicolas de los Garza, Nuevo Leon).... Corrugated boxes
Grupo Copamex de Centroamerica, S.A. (San Jose, Costa Rica) Conversion of kraft paper into
multi-wall bags
3. Printing and Writing Products Group
Pondercel, S.A. de C.V. (Anahuac, Chihuahua)............................... Bond paper production
Papelera de Chihuahua, S.A. de C.V. (Chihuahua, Chihuahua)................. Bond paper production
Industrial Papelera Mexicana, S.A. de C.V. (Uruapan, Michoacan)............ Bond paper production
Cia. Papelera Maldonado, S.A. de C.V. (San Nicolas de los Garza, Nuevo Leon) Bond paper production
Specialty paper production
- ---------------
(1) An affiliate of ours. All of its production is sold and distributed by us.
We follow a scheduled maintenance program for all plant machinery
involving regular maintenance shutdowns and we believe that our plants and
equipment are currently in a good state of repair. We have not experienced any
significant production stoppages due to equipment failure.
In addition to the aforementioned plants and facilities, we own or
lease nine recyclable paper collection and storage sites capable of collecting
an aggregate of approximately 400,000 tons of recyclable paper a year. These
sites are located in Chihuahua, Ciudad Juarez, Guadalajara, San Nicolas de los
Garza and Saltillo in Mexico and El Paso, Albuquerque, McAllen and Arlington in
the United States. We also have a sales offices in Monterrey, Mexico City and
Guadalajara.
Capital Expenditures
The following table sets forth our historical capital expenditures for
expansion of production.
Year Ended December 31,
----------------------------
1999 2000 2001
---- ---- ----
In millions of U.S. dollars
Consumer products........................... 11.1 7.9 11.8
Packaging products.......................... 7.5 9.2 10.2
Printing and writing products............... 14.7 20.0 0.7
---- ---- ----
Total..................................... 33.3 37.1 22.7
==== ==== ====
We intend to spend a total of approximately US$2.6 million from January
1, 2002 through December 31, 2003 to build a water treatment facility in
Monterrey. We expect to install a tissue line with an annual production capacity
of 36,000 tons and to commence operation during the third quarter of 2002. This
tissue line was funded with the GE Machinery Operating Lease II.
Market Share and Competition
The following description of market share and competition factors for
our most significant products excludes recyclable paper because a significant
portion is used in the production of paper products and is not sold to the third
parties.
Consumer Products
Tissue Products. We are the second largest producer of tissue paper in
Mexico in terms of sales volume. We are the largest producer in Mexico of
generic brands of tissue products. Our tissue paper brands include Regio, one of
the most-widely recognized consumer brand names in the Mexican tissue market and
the second best-selling brand in the premium segment, Scottis, the number two
brand overall for facial tissue, Tessy, Lovly, Boreal, and Flen.
Feminine-Care Products and Adult Incontinence Products. Our subsidiary,
Sancela, is the second largest producer and seller of feminine-care products in
Mexico. Sancela sells feminine-care products under the brand name Saba, which is
the number one brand in Mexico in terms of sales, and adult incontinence
products under the brand name Tena. We are the number one producer in Mexico of
heavy adult incontinence products and the number two producer of light adult
incontinence products.
Baby Diapers. We offer baby diapers under the brand name DryKids
(launched in February 2002) and other private brands. Our baby diaper products
are currently manufactured by our affiliate, COHINSA. We sell these products to
the public through retail stores and drugstores in Mexico with respect to the
DryKids brand and to wholesalers with respect to private brands. We believe that
baby diapers will become a more significant product line for us in the future.
Away-From-Home Products. We began selling away-from-home products in
1998. Based on our estimates, we control an 8.8% share of the Mexican market
measured by volume, giving us the number three position in Mexico in this
segment. We have a complete portfolio of products and address all of the
economic segments. We use the Benefit and Floresta brands in this segment.
Notebooks. With our joint venture with El Cid, which allowed us to
enter into the premium and super-premium notebook markets, we believe that we
are the fourth largest manufacturer of notebooks in Mexico in terms of
production capacity. We sell notebooks under the brand names Shock (which is one
of the most widely-recognized brands in the Mexican notebook market), Wow,
Collection, Titanium, Master Degree, Basket, El Cid, Leather Concept, Stone
Graphix and Milenium, among others.
Packaging Products
Kraft Paper. We are the largest Mexican producer in terms of units
produced of kraft paper for multi-wall bags, accounting for approximately 68.5%
of Mexican sales for such products in 2001, and the third largest producer of
kraft paper overall. The principal competitors in Mexico include Grupo
Industrial Durango, S.A. de C.V. and Smurfit Carton y Papel de Mexico, S.A. de
C.V., both producers with substantial operations in containerboard and
industrial paper. Imports accounted for a significant portion of the remainder
of Mexican sales.
Multi-Wall Bags. We believe we are the largest producer of multi-wall
bags in Mexico in terms of units produced, and estimate that we produce
approximately two times as many multi-wall bags as the next largest producer,
Productora de Bolsas de Papel, S.A. de C.V. This producer, which is a subsidiary
of Grupo Cemex, the leading Mexican cement maker, supplies all of its production
to its affiliates. We also sell multi-wall bags to Grupo Cemex, which is our
largest customer for that product. Imports have not been a significant factor in
this market.
Printing and Writing Products
Printing and Writing Paper. We are the largest manufacturer of cut-size
bond paper in Mexico in terms of production and the second largest overall
manufacturer of bond paper in Mexico after KCM. Imports represented a
significant portion of the remainder of Mexican sales. In 2001, we ranked second
in terms of Mexican sales of bond paper and printing and writing paper, covering
an estimated 27.7% of total sales of bond paper and 18.5% of total sales of
printing and writing paper. Our bond paper brands include Facia, Vision and
Fastway, among others.
Specialty Paper. Imports account for the majority of apparent demand
for specialty paper in Mexico. We are the largest producer of specialty paper in
Mexico in terms of production volume. The large presence of imports is primarily
due to the current limited production capacity available in Mexico.
ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with, and is
qualified in its entirety by reference to our Consolidated Financial Statements
and the notes thereto included elsewhere herein. The Consolidated Financial
Statements have been prepared according to Mexican GAAP, and on a consolidated
basis to reflect the financial condition and results of operations of the
Company and our consolidated subsidiaries. See Note 17 to the audited
consolidated financial statements for a discussion of certain differences
between U.S. GAAP and Mexican GAAP.
General
In recent periods, our financial condition and results of operations
have been significantly influenced by the following three factors:
o movements in international pulp and paper prices and their effect
on our cost of producing printing and writing products and
packaging products,
o the state of the Mexican economy, particularly the rate of economic
growth and its effect on the demand for our products, the value of
the peso against the U.S. dollar and inflation rates, and
o our strategic acquisitions.
Mexican Economic Factors
Substantially all of our operations are situated in Mexico.
Approximately 94.7% of our revenues in 2001 and 94.4% of our revenues in 2000
resulted from sales generated within Mexico. Accordingly, Mexican economic
conditions and government policies have a significant impact on our operations
and revenues.
Mexican Economic Growth and Demand
Changes in Mexico's gross domestic product generally affect the demand
for printing and writing and packaging products. As a result, our printing and
writing and packaging product prices and gross margins, which are a measure of
our gross profit as a percentage of net sales, are affected. For example, during
2001, Mexico's gross domestic product decreased 0.3%, and apparent demand of
white printing and writing paper decreased 0.5%. Similarly, cement companies,
the primary consumers of multi-wall bags, decreased their demand for such bags
as a result of a 4.5% decline in construction activity. Overall, apparent demand
for such bags decreased 11.6% in 2001.
The demand for bathroom tissue and related products is less sensitive
to fluctuations in gross domestic product. For example, in 2001 Mexico's gross
domestic product decreased 0.3%, while the demand for bathroom and facial tissue
increased 1.9%. This demand is generally associated with retail sales, which
increased 2.7%. Other factors that favorably affect the consumption of tissue
paper are the recovery of real salaries, as well as a greater availability of
consumer credit, particularly credit given by department and grocery stores.
Effect of Devaluation and Inflation
Fluctuations in the value of the peso and high rates of inflation have
the following impact on our results of operations and financial condition:
o A significant devaluation of the peso and high inflation generally
will cause a decline in Mexico's gross domestic product which, as
discussed above, results in a decline in the domestic demand for
our products, particularly industrial paper products. Our
industrial paper products, which include printing and writing and
packaging products, represent 52.6% of our total sales.
o Whenever the inflation rate in Mexico exceeds the rate of
devaluation of the peso against the U.S. dollar, our gross margin
is likely to be negatively affected. Because the peso price of our
printing and writing products is generally based on international
U.S. dollar prices, assuming international pulp and paper prices
remain constant, the peso price of our printing and writing
products tend to increase at a rate similar to the rate of peso
devaluation, while our costs and operating expenses, which are
largely in pesos, tend to increase at the rate of inflation. We
experienced this effect in 2000, when the rate of inflation was
9.0%, which significantly exceeded the rate of devaluation of 1.2%
in 2000. In 2001, the inflation rate was 4.4%, while the peso
appreciated by 4.6%. The inverse effect occurs when the rate of
peso devaluation exceeds the inflation rate. For example, in 1998,
the rate of inflation was 18.6% while the rate of peso devaluation
was 22.7%. This effect helps us increase our gross margin.
o Our net foreign exchange gains or losses reflect the impact of
changes in foreign exchange rates on our assets and liabilities
denominated in currencies other than pesos. A foreign exchange loss
arises in our results of operations if a liability is denominated
in a foreign currency, such as U.S. dollars, that appreciates
relative to the peso between the time the liability is incurred and
the date it is repaid. This is because the appreciation of the
foreign currency increases the amount of pesos that we need to
purchase the foreign currency necessary to repay the liability. For
example, in 1999, we recorded a foreign exchange gain of Ps.241
million, reflecting the impact of a peso appreciation of 4.0% on
our U.S. dollar-denominated indebtedness of US$503 million. In 2000
we recorded a foreign exchange loss of Ps.93 million, reflecting
the impact of a peso devaluation of 1.2% on our U.S. dollar
denominated indebtedness of US$539 million. In 2001 we recorded a
foreign exchange gain of Ps.261 million, reflecting the impact of a
peso appreciation of 4.6% on our U.S. dollar-denominated
indebtedness of US$488 million.
o Our gain or loss in monetary position reflects the impact of
inflation on our net monetary assets and liabilities. For example,
a gain on monetary position results from holding net monetary
liabilities in pesos during periods of inflation due to the decline
in the purchasing power of the peso over time. In 2000 we recorded
a gain of Ps.380 million in our monetary position, reflecting the
impact of 9.0% inflation on our net monetary liability position of
Ps.4,561 million. In 2001, we recorded a gain of Ps.180 million in
our monetary position, reflecting the impact of a 4.4% rate of
inflation on our net monetary liability position of Ps.4,201
million.
o Substantially all of our indebtedness outstanding on the date of
this annual report is U.S. dollar-denominated. In periods of
devaluation, the peso-carrying value of our U.S. dollar-denominated
debt increases on our balance sheet to reflect the additional pesos
required to meet our foreign currency liabilities and a reduction
in our stockholder's equity.
The International Pulp and Paper Products Market
The costs of production of our printing and writing products are
affected by the international prices of pulp and paper, which are in turn
affected by global supply and demand for such products. Since February 2001, we
have imported 100% of our virgin pulp requirements. As a general rule, when
international prices of pulp increase, our costs of production for printing and
writing products also increase. This negatively affects our profit margin, as we
cannot always pass this increased cost on to our customers. The inverse effect
occurs when the international price of pulp decreases, our costs of production
for printing and writing products decrease. This may increase our profit margin.
Changes in the international prices of pulp and paper do not significantly
affect the prices of our consumer and packaging products, because we use a
minimal amount of virgin pulp to make these products. See "Item 3: Key
Information--Risk Factors--Risk Factors Relating to Our Operations--Our prices,
cash flow and our profitability for our printing and writing products may
decrease because of down cycles in the paper industry."
Prices in the United States pulp and paper industry reached record
levels in late 1995. In early 1996, prices for pulp began to decline, reaching
an average of approximately US$430 per ton of pulp for Bleached Soft-Wood Kraft
U.S. Southern, which is a benchmark for paper prices, by the second quarter of
1996. Prices then stabilized for over a year, increased to an average of
approximately US$557 per ton in the second half of 1997 and decreased during
1998 to approximately US$501 per ton in the first half and to approximately
US$476 per ton in the second half of the year. During 1999, the average price of
pulp recovered, reaching approximately US$544 per ton in the second half of
1999. This increase was due mainly to the recovery of Asian economies and a
reduction of inventory levels. During the first part of 2000, the average price
of pulp further recovered, reaching approximately US$640 per ton. By mid-2001,
the price of virgin pulp had fallen to US$520 per ton. This decrease was due to
a slight increase in industry wide pulp inventory levels and a downward trend in
the pulp price cycle. In December, 2001, the average price of virgin pulp was
US$445 per ton, mainly due to the worldwide economic slowdown, which had an
adverse effect on worldwide apparent demand for paper, causing it to decrease
2.4% in 2001.
The worldwide economic slowdown, the decrease in paper demand and lower
sales of virgin pulp were all factors related to the reduction in the
international pulp market prices.
Net Sales By Division
The table below presents our sales to third parties by division in the
years 1999, 2000 and 2001.
Year ended December 31,
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999 2000 2001
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
% of % of % of
Pesos total Sales Pesos total Sales Pesos total Sales
Millions of constant December 31, 2001 Pesos
Consumer Products................ Ps. 3,029 43% Ps. 3,575 45% Ps. 3,610 48%
Packaging Products............... 1,762 25% 1,841 24% 1,862 24%
Printing and Writing Products.... 2,277 32% 2,451 31% 2,146 28%
--------- ---- --------- --- -------- ----
Total............................ Ps. 7,068 100% Ps. 7,867 100% Ps. 7,618 100%
========= ==== ========= ==== ========= ====
Fiscal Year 2001 Compared with Fiscal Year 2000
Net Sales
Net sales decreased 3.2% from Ps.7,867 million in 2000 to Ps.7,618
million in 2001. This decrease was due to a 12.4% decrease in net sales of
printing and writing products. The decrease was partially offset by 1.0%
increase in net sales of consumer products and 1.1% increase in net sales of
packaging products.
Consumer Products. Consumer products sales increased 1.0% from Ps.3,575
million in 2000 to Ps.3,610 million in 2001. This increase was caused by:
o an increase in sales volume of consumer products due to an increase
in sales volume of feminine-care products due to an efficient
advertising campaign,
o an increase in unit sales of baby diapers, which we began to sell
in September 2000, and
o an increase in unit sales of adult incontinence products.
The increase in the sales volume in consumer products was partially
offset by a decrease in the sales price in real terms of our consumer products
due to our inability to raise our prices at a rate equal to the rate of
inflation because of the weak economic environment in 2001.
Packaging Products. Packaging products sales increased 1.1% from
Ps.1,841 million in 2000 to Ps.1,862 million in 2001. This increase was a result
of new production capacity for corrugated boxes.
Printing and Writing Products. Printing and writing products sales
decreased 12.4% from Ps.2,451 million in 2000 to Ps.2,146 million in 2001. This
decrease was caused by:
o lower sales of pulp to third parties, associated with the closure
of the Pondercel pulp mill in February 2001; and
o a decrease in printing and writing products sales prices in real
terms due to (i) the fact that our bond paper prices (which are
generally tied to international pulp prices, which fluctuate based
on the U.S. dollar) did not keep pace with inflation and (ii) the
strength of the peso against the U.S. dollar.
Cost of Sales
Cost of sales decreased 8.6% from Ps.5,359 million in 2000 to Ps.4,897
million in 2001. As a result, gross margin increased from 31.9% in 2000 to 35.7%
in 2001. The decrease in cost of sales was caused by a decrease in the cost of
our raw materials, improvements in productivity and the strength of the peso
against the U.S. dollar.
Consumer Products. Cost of sales of consumer products decreased 2.7%
from Ps.2,018 in 2000 to Ps.1,963 million in 2001.
Packaging Products. Cost of sales of packaging products decreased 3.0%
from Ps.1,233 million in 2000 to Ps.1,196 million in 2001.
Printing and Writing Products. Cost of sales of printing and writing
products decreased 17.5% from Ps.2,108 million in 2000 to Ps.1,738 million in
2001.
Selling and Administrative Expenses
Selling and administrative expenses increased Ps.78 million or 4.5%,
from Ps.1,722 million in 2000 (21.9% of sales) to Ps.1,800 million in 2001
(23.6% of sales). The increase in selling and administrative expenses was due
to:
o increased advertising expenses stemming primarily from launching
new product lines in our baby diaper market segment;
o the introduction of new products such as baby diapers and
corrugated boxes; and
o an increase in operating costs mainly associated with organic
growth in consumer products and packaging goods.
Operating Income
Operating income increased 17.2% from Ps.786 million in 2000 to Ps.921
million in 2001. Operating margin, which is operating income as a percentage of
net sales, increased from 10.0% in 2000 to 12.1% in 2001. Operating income and
operating margin increased as a result of the decrease in the cost of our raw
materials and production costs. EBITDA increased Ps.69 million or 5.7%, from
Ps.1,215 million in 2000 to Ps.1,284 million in 2001.
Comprehensive Cost of Financing
Comprehensive cost of financing decreased Ps.221 million, or 68.4%,
from Ps.323 million in 2000 to Ps.102 million in 2001 for the reasons noted
below.
Net Interest Expense: Interest income increased 44.4% from Ps.27
million in 2000 to Ps.39 million in 2001. Interest expense decreased 8.7% from
Ps.637 million in 2000 to Ps.582 million in 2001. On a net basis, interest
expense decreased by Ps.67 million, or 10.9%, in 2001 as compared to 2000. This
decrease was due to lower average interest rates.
Exchange Gain (Loss): Exchange gain changed by Ps.354 million from a
loss of Ps.93 million in 2000 to a gain of Ps.261 million in 2001. The change
was due to the effect on our net dollar-denominated indebtedness of the 1.2%
depreciation of the peso in 2000 as compared with the 4.6% appreciation of the
peso in 2001.
Result from Monetary Position: Gain in monetary position decreased
52.8% from Ps.380 million in 2000 to Ps.180 million in 2001. This decrease was
due to the effect on our net peso-denominated indebtedness of a higher inflation
rate during 2000 as compared with 2001.
Other Expenses
Other expenses increased from Ps.70 million in 2000 to Ps.104 million
in 2001.
Asset write down
On October 26, 2001, we decided to permanently close the pulp mill
located at Pondercel. This closure resulted in an extraordinary loss on our
financial statements of Ps.601 million.
Income and Asset Taxes and Employee Profit Sharing
The nominal corporate income tax rate is currently 35% of a company's
taxable profits. If the corporate income tax payable in a fiscal year amounts to
less than 1.8% of the average value of most of a company's assets, net of
certain liabilities, then the company pays a minimum alternate asset tax in an
amount equal to such percentage of those net assets.
Effective January 1, 2003, the nominal corporate income tax rate in
Mexico will decline by one percentage point each year until it reaches 32% in
2005.
In addition, aside from wages and fringe benefits, Mexican companies
are required by law to provide their workers with a share of profits equal to
10% of their taxable profit, calculated before adjustments for inflation or
amortization of tax losses of previous years.
Income and asset taxes and employee profit sharing decreased from
Ps.238 million in 2000 to Ps.93 million in 2001. This decrease resulted from a
decrease in deferred income tax expense, from Ps.208 million in 2000 to Ps.57
million in 2001, due to the effect of the application of Bulletin D-4 .
Net Income (Loss)
Net income decreased from a gain of Ps.118 million in 2000 to a loss of
Ps.57 million in 2001. This decrease was due to the asset write down of the
Pondercel pulp mill described above.
Fiscal Year 2000 Compared with Fiscal Year 1999
Net Sales
Net sales increased 11.3% from Ps.7,068 million in 1999 to Ps.7,867
million in 2000. This increase was due to a 18.0% increase in net sales of
consumer products, a 4.5% increase in net sales of packaging products and a 7.6%
increase in net sales of printing and writing products.
Consumer Products. Consumer products sales increased 18.0% from
Ps.3,029 million in 1999 to Ps.3,575 million in 2000. This increase was caused
by:
o an increase in sales volume of our consumer products due to:
o an increase in sales volume of feminine-care products due to an
increase in installed capacity for such products in 1999,
o an increase in sales volume of tissue products caused by the
increase in the domestic demand and the plant located in
Nicaragua that we acquired in February 2000, and
o the increase in the sales volume in total consumer products was
partially offset by a decrease in sales volume of our notebook
products as a result of our strategy to sell products with a
higher sales price.
o an increase in the sales price in real terms of our consumer
products, caused by:
o an increase in the sales price in real terms of our tissue
products, which resulted from a shift towards more value-added
products
o an increase in the sales price in real terms of our
feminine-care products which resulted from a more attractive
mix of products, and
o an increase in the sales price in real terms in our notebook
products as a result of a shift towards products with higher
sales prices.
Packaging Products. Packaging products sales increased 4.5% from
Ps.1,762 million in 1999 to Ps.1,841 million in 2000. This increase was due to:
o an increase in sales volume of our packaging products due to an
increase in sales volume of multi-wall bags, an increase in sales
volume of packaging paper products and an increase in sales volume
of recyclable paper products due to the opening of new recycling
centers, and
o an increase in the sales price of multi-wall bags products and an
increase in the sales price of recyclable paper products due to an
increase in the market prices for such items.
Printing and Writing Products. Printing and writing products sales
increased 7.6% from Ps.2,277 million in 1999 to Ps.2,451 million in 2000. This
increase was caused by:
o an increase in sales volume of our printing and writing products
particularly because of an increase in sales volume of specialty
paper products and a large one-time sale of pulp, and
o an increase in the sales price in real terms of our printing and
writing products, caused by an increase in the sales price in real
terms of pulp.
Cost of Sales
Cost of sales increased 14.7% from Ps.4,672 million in 1999 to Ps.5,359
million in 2000. As a result, gross margin decreased from 33.9% in 1999 to 31.9%
in 2000. The increase in cost of sales was caused by the increase in the cost of
our raw materials and an increase in sales volume.
Consumer Products. Cost of sales of consumer products increased 16.2%
from Ps.1,736 in 1999 to Ps.2,018 million in 2000.
Packaging Products. Cost of sales of packaging products increased 14.1%
from Ps.1,081 million in 1999 to Ps.1,233 million in 2000.
Printing and Writing Products. Cost of sales of printing and writing
products increased 13.7% from Ps.1,854 million in 1999 to Ps.2,108 million in
2000.
Selling and Administrative Expenses
Selling and administrative expenses increased Ps.260 million or 17.8%,
from Ps.1,462 million in 1999 (20.6% of sales) to Ps.1,722 million in 2000
(21.9% of sales). The increase in selling and administrative expenses was due
to:
o an increase in the advertising and promotion of our tissue and
feminine-care products,
o an increase in freight costs associated with the transportation of
a growing production volume, and
o the continued development of our distribution infrastructure to
meet our growing sales volume.
Operating Income
Operating income decreased 15.8% from Ps.934 in 1999 to Ps.786 million
in 2000. Operating margin, which is operating income as a percentage of net
sales, decreased from 13.2% in 1999 to 10% in 2000. Operating income and
operating margin decreased as a result of the increase in the cost of our raw
materials and increase in the selling and administrative expenses. EBITDA
decreased Ps.139 million or 10.3%, from Ps.1,354 million in 1999 to Ps.1,215
million in 2000.
Comprehensive Cost of Financing
Comprehensive cost of financing changed from a gain of Ps.236 million
in 1999 to a loss of Ps.323 million in 2000 for the reasons noted below.
Net Interest Expense: Interest income increased 28.6% from Ps.21
million in 1999 to Ps.27 million in 2000. Interest expense increased 4.9% from
Ps.607 million in 1999 to Ps.637 million in 2000. On a net basis, interest
expense increased by Ps.24 million, or 4.0%, in 2000 as compared to 1999. This
increase was due to an increase in the average debt balances during 2000 and
higher average interest rates on such debt.
Exchange Gain (Loss): Exchange gain changed Ps.334 million from a gain
of Ps.241 million in 1999 to a loss of Ps.93 million in 2000. The decrease was
due to the effect on our net dollar-denominated indebtedness of the 4.0%
appreciation of the peso in 1999 as compared with the 1.2% depreciation of the
peso in 2000.
Result from Monetary Position: Gain in monetary position decreased
34.6% from Ps.581 million in 1999 to Ps.380 million in 2000, the decrease was
due to effect of our net peso-denominated indebtedness of a higher inflation
rate during 1999 as compared with 2000.
Other Expenses
Other expenses increased from Ps.23 million in 1999 to Ps.70 million in
2000.
Income and Asset Taxes and Employee Profit Sharing
The nominal corporate income tax rate is currently 35% of a company's
taxable profits. If the corporate income tax payable in a fiscal year amounts to
less than 1.8% of the average value of most of a company's assets, net of
certain liabilities, then the company pays a minimum alternate asset tax in an
amount equal to such percentage of those net assets.
In addition, aside from wages and fringe benefits, Mexican companies
are required by law to provide their workers with a share of profits equal to
10% of their taxable profit, calculated before adjustments for inflation or
amortization of tax losses of previous years.
Income and asset taxes and employee profit sharing increased from
Ps.107 million in 1999 to Ps.238 million in 2000. This increase resulted from
deferred income tax of Ps.208 million in 2000, due to the effect of the
application of Bulletin D-4, which we became required to apply in January 2000.
Extraordinary Items
Since Bulletin D-4 became effective, companies in Mexico do not record
extraordinary items because such items are now included in the income and asset
tax provision.
Net Income (Loss)
Net income decreased from Ps.984 million in 1999 to Ps.118 million in
2000. This decrease was due to a decrease in operating income and the change
from a gain to a loss in comprehensive cost of financing and the effect of
deferred taxes described above.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Liquidity
General. Historically, we have funded our cash requirements from cash
flow from our subsidiaries' operations and short-term and long-term borrowings.
Our operations are conducted through our subsidiaries. As a holding company, we
have no independent operations and, therefore, are dependent on the cash flow of
our subsidiaries to meet our obligations. By law, subsidiaries may only
distribute dividends and other amounts to us with stockholder approval and such
distributions may only be made from retained earnings after losses from prior
years have been satisfied. Distributions from subsidiaries must also comply with
applicable covenants contained in their credit agreements. We do not believe
that such restrictions on our subsidiaries' ability to pay dividends have had or
are expected to have an impact on our ability to meet our cash obligations.
One of our general practices regarding short-term debt has been to
enter into or renew short-term debt on a yearly basis and to allocate it among
different banks, as well as issuing debt securities under our Euro Commercial
Paper ("ECP") Program and eventually under our Mexican Commercial Paper Program
described further on. We believe that this practice is an efficient method of
securing short-term debt at beneficial interest rates while retaining the
flexibility to refinance such debt when appropriate. We have in the past focused
on reducing our short-term debt profile, in some cases by refinancing such debt
with debt containing long-term maturities. We intend to continue such activities
in the future. While we maintain lines of credit with various financial
institutions, these lines of credit are uncommitted and may be terminated by
such financial institutions at any time.
Our short-term debt is allocated among seven different credit
institutions and issuances under our ECP Program. As of December 31, 2001,
short-term debt (including the current portion of long-term debt) amounted to
US$229.0 million.
Total debt at December 31, 2001 was Ps.4,799.0 million, a decrease of
Ps.614 million, or 11.3%, compared to the debt level at December 31, 2000. This
decrease is primarily the result of the appreciation of the peso against the
dollar and the presentation of 2000 and 2001 debt balances in constant pesos as
of December 31, 2001, which includes inflation for the year 2001. Of our total
debt at December 31, 2001, Ps.2,092.9 million was short-term debt and Ps.2,706.1
million was long-term debt. All of our debt outstanding at December 31, 2001 was
U.S. dollar-denominated except Ps.320 million.
The 11.375% Senior Notes due 2004. In April 1997, we issued US$200
million of notes pursuant to an indenture dated as of April 25, 1997 among us,
IBJ Schroder Bank and Trust Company, as Trustee and Citibank, N.A., as
Administrative Agent. We used the net proceeds of this issuance to repay
short-and long-term debt owed by us and by our subsidiaries. We have since
repurchased some of the Notes in the secondary market, and approximately
US$180.3 million of these senior notes remain outstanding.
Although we believe that the Notes are redeemable at our option, in
whole or in part, at any time on or after April 30, 2002 at specified redemption
prices, because of a possible error in the indenture our ability to redeem these
senior notes is not free from doubt. We are currently evaluating our
alternatives to correct this error.
Syndicated Credit Facilities. In March 2000, we entered into a US$130
million credit facility with certain banks and Citibank, N.A., as administrative
agent, which we refer to as the Syndicated Credit Facility I. We borrowed US$130
million under this facility and used the proceeds to refinance existing debt. In
March 2002, we entered into a US$72 million credit facility with certain banks
and Citibank, N.A., as administrative agent, which we refer to as the Syndicated
Credit Facility II (Syndicated Credit Facilities I and II collectively referred
to herein as the "Syndicated Credit Facilities"). We borrowed the full amount
under this facility and used the proceeds to refinance existing debt, including
amounts borrowed under the Syndicated Credit Facility I. The Syndicated Credit
Facility I bears interest at 3 month LIBOR plus a rate between 3.0% and 4.5%,
determined based on our debt to EBITDA ratio. The Syndicated Credit Facility II
provides for a 4.0% spread over 3 month LIBOR until July 12, 2002 and thereafter
mirrors the interest rate obligation contained in the Syndicated Credit Facility
I. As of March 31, 2002, the Syndicated Credit Facility I and the Syndicated
Credit Facility II have a balance of US$80 million and US$72 million
outstanding, respectively.
ECP Program. In April 2001, we entered into a US$150 million ECP
Program, whereby we may issue short-term notes to non-U.S. investors pursuant to
Regulation S of the Securities Act. As of December 31, 2001 the outstanding
amount of short-term notes issued under the ECP Program was US$57.8 million. The
proceeds were used to repay our short-term debt, and as a result, our level of
debt did not increase. These notes bear a weighted average interest rate of
8.55%.
Mexican Commercial Paper Program. In March 2002, we entered into a
Ps.500 million (US$55.5 million) commercial paper program (the "Mexican
Commercial Paper Program"), whereby we may issue short-term notes listed on the
Mexican Stock Exchange. By March 31, 2002, we had issued notes for Ps.120
million (US$13.3 million), but there are no amounts currently outstanding under
the program. The proceeds were used to repay our short-term debt, and as a
result, our level of debt did not increase.
Certificados Bursatiles Program. In December 2001, we launched a Ps.1
billion (US$109 million) certificados bursatiles program (the "Certificados
Bursatiles Program"), similar to a medium term note program. In December 2001,
we issued Ps.300 million (US$32.7 million) in 3 year notes listed on the Mexican
Stock Exchange. These notes bear interest at 4 week TIIE (the Mexican
Interbanking Balanced Rate) plus 1.75 percentage points. In April 2002, we
issued an additional Ps.300 million (US$32.7 million) in 4 year notes (the
"Certificado Bursatil II") bearing interest at 2.75 percentage points over the
yield of six month Cetes. The proceeds from these issuances have been used to
repay existing indebtedness. The Certificado Bursatil I and Certificado Bursatil
II remain outstanding.
Banorte Credit Facility. In June 2002, we executed a letter of intent
with Banco Mercantil del Norte, S.A. ("Banorte") for a six year credit facility
of up to US$30 million. Under the terms set forth in the letter, this facility
will bear interest at a fixed rate of 9.5%. We intend to use the proceeds from
this credit facility to repurchase US$30 million of the Notes held by Banorte.
The following table presents our amortization requirements with respect
to our total indebtedness as of March 31, 2002 after giving effect to the
Syndicated Credit Facility II and the Certificado Bursatil II.
Year In millions of U.S. dollars
(April-December)
2002..................................... US$113
2003..................................... 59
2004..................................... 280
2005..................................... 27
2006 and thereafter...................... US$ 46
After giving effect to the use of the proceeds of the Syndicated Credit
Facility II and the Certificado Bursatil II, the change of our debt portfolio
reflected a decrease of short-term debt and current portion of long-term debt,
from US$238.5 million to US$133.5 million and an increase in long-term debt from
US$285.5 million to US$390.5 million.
The indenture governing the Notes, the terms of the Syndicated Credit
Facilities, the terms of the Certificados Bursatiles Program, and the ECP
Program, and the terms of our other indebtedness impose restrictions on us,
including among other things, the maintenance of certain operating and financial
ratios, and affect, and in many respects limit or prohibit, among other things,
our ability to pay dividends, incur indebtedness, create liens, enter into
transactions with affiliates and consummate certain asset sales.
Other Contractual Obligations
GE Factoring Facility. In December 2001, we signed a master agreement
with GE Capital Bank S.A. ("GE Capital Bank") creating a revolving factoring
facility without recourse whereby we may transfer accounts receivable to GE
Capital Bank, up to Ps.260 million (US$28.4 million). The account receivables
that are eligible for assignment to GE Capital Bank correspond to certain
premium clients.
Banorte Factoring Facility. In March 2002, we signed a master agreement
with Factor Banorte, S.A. ("Factor Banorte") creating a revolving factoring
facility without recourse whereby we may transfer accounts receivable to Factor
Banorte. There is an uncommitted authorization amount of up to Ps.100 million
(US$10.9 million). No amounts have been disposed under such agreement. The
account receivables that are eligible for assignment to Factor Banorte
correspond to certain premium clients.
Other Factoring Facilities. During 2001, we entered into other
factoring facilities without recourse, which have been extinguished during the
first quarter of 2002 and there are no outstanding amounts under such
agreements.
GE Machinery Operating Lease I. In October 1999, we signed a six-year
true lease for packaging equipment with GE Capital Bank, whereby we pay annual
rents to GE Capital Bank in the amount of US$1.33 million.
GE Machinery Operating Lease II. In December 2000, we signed a
seven-year true lease for tissue production machinery with GE Capital Bank,
whereby we pay annual rents to GE Capital Bank in the amount of US$2.71 million,
starting in 2002.
Bancomer Swap. In January 2002, we entered into a Ps. 150 million
interest and currency swap with BBVA Bancomer, S.A. ("Bancomer"), with maturity
on December 2004 whereby we receive interest at a rate equivalent to (4 week)
TIIE plus 4.15 percentage points accrued over Ps.150 million and we are
obligated to pay interest at a fixed rate of 8.70% on US$16.3 million,
equivalent to such peso amount.
Capital Expenditures
We expect to make certain capital expenditures over the next few years
to expand existing operations, particularly in the area of consumer products.
The degree and timing of capital expenditures will remain strongly dependent on
economic developments in Mexico, including inflation and exchange rates, the
stability of international financial markets and the availability of suitable
financing. We currently anticipate that we will spend approximately US$22.3
million for capital expenditures from January 1, 2002 through December 31, 2002.
For the three-year period from January 1, 2002 through December 31,
2004, our anticipated capital expenditures, by division are as follows:
Capital
-------
Division Expenditures
-------- ------------
In millions of U.S. dollars
Consumer products...................... US$46.8
Packaging products..................... 37.5
Printing and writing products.......... 9.0
Total............................. US$93.3
We intend to spend a total of approximately US$2.6 million from January
1, 2002 through December 31, 2003 to build a water treatment facility in
Monterrey. We expect to install a tissue line with an annual production capacity
of 36,000 tons and to commence operation during the third quarter of 2002. This
tissue line was funded with the GE Machinery Operating Lease II.
We expect to be able to fund other future capital expenditures and to
meet our other obligations with funds from operations, bank lines of credit and
other financing facilities and capital infusions. We believe that funds from
operations and our current bank lines of credit will be sufficient to meet our
anticipated capital expenditures through 2003. We cannot assure you that
additional financing will be available to meet our capital requirements or
obtainable on terms favorable to us if it is available.
Covenant Waivers under Bank Agreements
In November 1999, our subsidiary Sacos y Envases Industriales, S.A. de
C.V ("SEISA"), requested a waiver of the leverage ratio covenants in a credit
agreement with Bancomer. Bancomer granted SEISA a waiver of compliance with that
covenant with effect until January 2, 2001. On December 15, 2000, we prepaid the
total outstanding amount of this loan, which was US$1.1 million.
We were party to a US$125 million credit facility with a syndicate of
banks led by Banco Santander Mexicano ("Banco Santander") that had a maturity
date in July 2000. In July 1999, we were required to reclassify the current
portion of the facility as short-term debt for accounting purposes. That
reclassification resulted in the inability of Copamex and some of our
subsidiaries to comply with the current ratio and debt coverage ratio covenants
under the above mentioned credit agreement with Bancomer, S.A. ("Bancomer") and
three credit agreements with Banco Nacional de Mexico, S.A. ("Banamex"), each of
which are no longer outstanding. We asked Banamex and Bancomer to waive these
covenants until January 2001 and in December 1999 the respective waivers were
granted. When we refinanced the Banco Santander facility with the Syndicated
Credit Facility I in March 2000, those covenant violations were resolved.
On December 27, 2000, the company requested waivers for 2000 regarding
the interest coverage maintenance test and the leverage incurrence test under
Syndicated Credit Facility I. At the same time, the company requested an
amendment of the levels of the interest coverage maintenance test and the
leverage maintenance and incurrence tests under the same credit facility. These
waivers and amendments were obtained on February 26, 2001.
In December 2001, we requested that Banamex waive the current ratio
covenant and the EBITDA to interest expense plus current portion of long-term
debt ratio under a credit facility with Banamex. Such waiver was granted until
March 2002, when such credit facility was extinguished through a partial
refinancing and a partial prepayment with the proceeds of a syndicated credit
facility entered into in March 2002.
Use of Estimates in Certain Accounting Policies
In preparing our financial statements, we make estimates concerning a
variety of matters. Some of these matters are highly uncertain, and our
estimates involve judgments we make based on the information available to us. In
the discussion below, we have identified several of these matters for which our
financial presentation would be materially affected if either (a) we used
different estimates that we could reasonably have used or (b) in the future we
change our estimates in response to changes that are reasonably likely to occur.
The discussion addresses only those estimates that we consider most
important based on the degree of uncertainty and the likelihood of a material
impact if we used a different estimate. There are many other areas in which we
use estimates about uncertain matters, but the reasonably likely effect of
changed or different estimates is not material to our financial presentation.
Allowance for doubtful accounts
We maintain an allowance for doubtful accounts based on our estimates
of losses that we have experienced in the past with similar accounts
receivables. As of December 31, 2001, the amount of the allowance was Ps. 44.8
million. The amount of the allowance is based on our statistical analysis and
economic and financial conditions of customers that evidence the most
significant aging balances, however, our allowance could prove insufficient if
our statistical analysis of our accounts receivables is inadequate.
Estimated useful life of property, plants and equipment
We estimate the useful life of particular classes of property, plants
and equipment in order to determine the amount of depreciation expense to be
recorded in each period. Depreciation expense is a significant element of our
costs, amounting to Ps.362.7 million in 2001. The useful life of fixed assets is
determined each year by independent appraisals, based on historical experience
with similar assets in Mexico, technological changes and other factors. Changes
in technology or other factors may result in a re-adjustment of their estimated
useful life and may increase depreciation expenses.
Deferred taxes
Each year, we estimate the amount of deferred taxes assets in
accordance with the procedures set forth in Note 13c to our financial
statements. Each year, we project that we may use a certain amount in deferred
taxes assets to reduce our future tax liabilty based on the taxes paid in prior
years and on our estimated tax liability for future years. If our estimates of
our future tax liability were to be revised downwards, we would have to
recognize a charge-off and write-down those tax credits which were not
recoverable.
Reconciliation to U.S. GAAP
The following table sets forth a comparison of our net income,
stockholders' equity and working capital, measured as current assets minus
current liabilities, under Mexican GAAP and U.S. GAAP.
At or for the Year Ended
December 31,
------------------------------------------
1999 2000 2001
----------- ----------- -----------
Millions of constant
December 31, 2001 pesos
Net income (loss) before minority interest in accordance with:
Mexican GAAP................................................ Ps. 1,040 Ps. 55 Ps. (5)
U.S. GAAP................................................... 564 273 (55)
Stockholders' equity in accordance with:
Mexican GAAP................................................ Ps. 6,290 Ps. 4,270 Ps. 4,058
U.S. GAAP................................................... 3,869 3,916 3,653
Working capital in accordance with:
Mexican GAAP................................................ Ps. (838) Ps. (330) Ps. (498)
U.S. GAAP................................................... (1,329) (799) (783)
The principal differences between Mexican GAAP and U.S. GAAP as they
relate to us are the treatment of capitalized interest, deferred income taxes,
minority interest, amortization of negative goodwill, capitalization of
software, deferred employee profit sharing and inventory valuations. See the
relevant descriptions below and see also Note 17 to the audited consolidated
financial statements for a description of these differences.
Inflation Adjustments
The reconciliation to U.S. GAAP does not include the reversal of the
adjustments to the financial statements for the effects of inflation required
under Mexican GAAP Bulletin B-10, because the application of Bulletin B-10
represents a comprehensive measure of the effects of price level changes in the
Mexican economy. As such, Bulletin B-10 is considered a more meaningful
presentation than historical cost-based financial reporting for both Mexican and
U.S. accounting purposes.
Capitalized Interest
Under Mexican GAAP, we have the option of capitalizing the cost of
financing on assets in construction. Under U.S. GAAP, interest must be
considered an additional cost of constructed assets to be capitalized in
property, plant and equipment and depreciated over the lives of the related
assets.
Deferred Income Taxes
Until December 31, 1999, Mexican GAAP, required that deferred income
taxes be provided for identifiable, non-recurring timing differences at rates in
effect at the time such differences originated. Benefits from tax loss
carry-forwards were not allowed to be recognized before the period in which the
carry-forward was utilized. See "Presentation of Financial and Other
Information" for a description of the new treatment relating to deferred income
taxes which became effective in January 2000.
Minority Interest
Under Mexican GAAP, minority interest in consolidated subsidiaries is
presented as a separate component within the stockholders' equity section in the
consolidated balance sheet. For U.S. GAAP purposes, minority interest is not
included in stockholders' equity.
Amortization of Negative Goodwill
Under Mexican GAAP, negative goodwill is either deducted from income on
the date on which the related asset is purchased, or amortized over a period of
no more than five years. Prior to 2002, under U.S. GAAP, negative goodwill was
amortized over a period of no more than twenty years. After the beginning of
2002, negative goodwill generated prior to 2002 will be written off as a
cumulative effect of a change in accounting principles. After the beginning of
2002, negative goodwill that is generated during or after 2002 will reduce the
book value, on a pro rata basis, of the acquired assets as of the date of
purchase of such assets.
Inventory Valuations
Under Mexican GAAP, a direct costing system, which considers only the
variable costs of production to value inventory, is utilized. Under U.S. GAAP,
inventory valuation must include all production costs, whether fixed or
variable.
ITEM 6. DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES
Directors
The following table sets forth the name, age, position and term of
service of each director of our company at March 31, 2002. The members of the
board of directors are not appointed for a specific term. Directors serve at the
discretion of the shareholders holding a majority of our equity interest.
Current Position
Name Age Position Held Since
- ---- --- -------- ----------
Juan Bosco Maldonado Quiroga............. 45 Chairman of the Board 1994
Alejandro Martin Ferrigno Maldonado...... 37 Director 1991
Gonzalo Luis Lozano Garcia............... 66 Director 1978
Sergio de la Garza y de Silva............ 46 Director 2000
Ricardo Maldonado Gonzalez............... 49 Director 1992
Carlos Luis Diaz Saenz................... 42 Director 1999
Senior Management
The following table sets forth the name, age, position and term of
service of each executive officer of our company at March 31, 2002. Executive
officers are not appointed for a specific term. Executive officers serve at the
discretion of the board of directors.
Current Position
Name Age Position Held Since
- ---- --- -------- ----------
Juan Bosco Maldonado Quiroga............. 45 Executive President 1992
Alejandro Martin Ferrigno Maldonado...... 37 Chief Executive Officer 1996
Gonzalo Luis Lozano Garcia............... 66 Senior Vice President 1997
Sergio F. de la Garza y de Silva......... 46 Chief Corporate Officer 1992
Armando Fernandez Murguia................ 56 Chief Governmental Relationships 1996
Officer
Oscar Vazquez Rojas...................... 62 Managing Director of Packaging 1999
Division
Oscar Castillo Hinojosa.................. 56 Sales Managing Director of 1999
Printing and Writing Products
Division
Juan Rangel Aguilar...................... 45 Managing Director for 1999
Multi-wall Bags
Juan Gilberto Flores Villarreal.......... 36 Managing Director for Central 1999
America Division
Jesus Armando Olvera Fonseca............. 45 Managing Director of Consumer 2000
Products Division
Carlos Luis Diaz Saenz................... 42 General Counsel 1999
Francisco Javier Fuentes Garcia.......... 51 Chief Officer of Human Resources 1997
Rogelio Martinez Cardona................. 51 Chief Assistant Officer of 1995
Internal Control and Audit
Rodolfo Gutierrez Pena................... 44 Corporate Comptroller 1991
Armando Vazquez Castillo................. 51 Managing Director of Corrugated 1999
Products
Carlos Grave Moosbrugger................. 51 Managing Director of Purchasing 1999
and Logistics
Pedro Gallardo Arellano.................. 49 Chief Officer of Information 1997
Jesus Gonzalez Juarez.................... 46 Chief Officer of Treasury 1996
Jose Peregrina Gomez..................... 46 Managing Director of Research and 2000
Development
Manuel Gamino Mendez..................... 50 Managing Director of Consumer 2000
Products Operation
Family Relationships
Juan Bosco Maldonado Quiroga is the uncle of Alejandro Martin Ferrigno
Maldonado. Ricardo Maldonado Gonzalez and Juan Bosco Maldonado Quiroga are
cousins.
Statutory Auditor
Under our corporate charter and in accordance with Mexican law, each
year our shareholders must elect at least one statutory auditor (comisario) and
may elect a corresponding alternate statutory auditor. The primary role of a
statutory auditor is to supervise all of our activities and report to our
shareholders at the annual ordinary general meeting of shareholders regarding
the accuracy, sufficiency and completeness of the financial information
presented to the shareholders by the Board of Directors. Currently, the
statutory auditor is Hector Isao Hongo Tsuji, a partner at the firm of Mancera,
S.C., our independent auditors.
Biographies
Juan Bosco Maldonado Quiroga has been a member of the Board of
Directors since April 1982, Chairman of the Board of Directors since March 1994
and Executive President since March 1992. Mr. Maldonado also served as Executive
Vice President from February 1980 through March 1992. From March 1978 to January
1980, Mr. Maldonado served as production manager of SEISA. Since January 1976,
Mr. Maldonado has also served in a variety of capacities with our affiliates.
Mr. Maldonado holds a degree in business administration from the Universidad
Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, which we refer to as UNAM.
Alejandro Martin Ferrigno Maldonado has been a member of the Board of
Directors since March 1991 and Chief Executive Officer since June 1996. Mr.
Ferrigno has also served as Chief Operating Officer from June 1994 through June
1996. From November 1990 through May 1994, he served as General Manager of Cajas
y Empaques Monterrey, S.A. de C.V. and, from January 1986 through October 1990,
as Commercial Manager of Copamex. Mr. Ferrigno holds a degree in industrial and
systems engineering from the Instituto Tecnologico y de Estudios Superiores de
Monterrey, which we refer to as ITESM.
Gonzalo Luis Lozano Garcia has been a member of the Board of Directors
since April 1978 and Executive Vice President since August 1997. Mr. Lozano has
also served in a variety of capacities with our affiliates since November 1953.
From January 1950 through October 1952, he served as Audit Supervisor for the
Ministry of Finance and Public Credit. Mr. Lozano holds a degree in accounting
from ITESM.
Ricardo Maldonado Gonzalez has been a member of the Board of Directors
since April 1992. Mr. Maldonado has also served as Vice-minister of the
Agricultural Development of Monterrey, or Subsecretario de Fomento y Desarrollo
Agropecuario, and is a member of the Mexican Association of Ministries of
Agricultural Development of Monterrey, or Asociacion Mexicana de Secretarios de
Desarrollo Agropecuario de Monterrey. He is a member of the board of directors
of Recubrimientos y Laminaciones de Papel S.A. de C.V. and serves as General
Manager of Inmobiliaria Ricardo Maldonado G., S.A. de C.V. Mr. Maldonado holds a
degree in agronomic engineering from Texas A&M University.
Sergio Francisco de la Garza y de Silva has been Chief Corporate
Officer since February 1992. Mr. de la Garza has also served as Chief Financial
Officer from September 1987 through February 1992. For more than eight years
prior to holding such positions, Mr. de la Garza worked in various capacities in
the banking industry: from December 1984 through September 1987, he served as
Branch Manager for Banamex; and from January 1978 through June 1978, Mr. de la
Garza served as Credit Analyst for Banco Mercantil de Monterrey, S.N.C. Mr. de
la Garza holds a degree in accounting from ITESM and a doctorate in business
administration from the University of Paris I- Sorbonne. Mr. de la Garza also
holds an A.D.-2 degree from the Instituto Panamericano de Alta Direccion de
Empresas, or IPADE.
Armando Fernandez Murguia has been Chief Governmental Relationships
Officer since July 1996. From January 1992 through July 1996, Mr. Fernandez
served as General Coordinator of Copamex Comercial, S.A. de C.V. and from April
1978 through December 1991, he served as General Manager in Mexico for
Corporativo Copamex, S.A. de C.V. Mr. Fernandez holds a degree in economics from
ITESM.
Oscar Vazquez Rojas has been Managing Director of the Packaging
Division since February 2001. Mr. Vazquez has also served as Director for
Consumer Products Operations from August 1997 through April 1999, and from
October 1995 through July 1997 as Director for Monterrey Operations. Since
October 1985, Mr. Vazquez has served in a variety of capacities with us and with
our affiliates. Mr. Vazquez holds a degree in chemical engineering from UNAM. He
also holds a master's degree in industrial engineering from Stanford University.
Oscar Castillo Hinojosa has been Managing Director for Industrial
Products Division since April 1999. Mr. Castillo has also served as Director for
Industrial Products Operations from August 1998 through April 1999. From
February 1997 through July 1998 Mr. Castillo served as Director for Kraft
Production Operations. Mr. Castillo has served in a variety of capacities with
our affiliates since March 1978. Mr. Castillo holds a degree in electrical
mechanical engineering and a master's degree in control from the Universidad
Autonoma de Nuevo Leon, which we refer to as UANL.
Juan Rangel Aguilar has been Managing Director for the Multi-wall Bags
Division since April 1999. From April 1997 through April 1999, Mr. Rangel served
as Manager Logistics of Corporativo Copamex. Mr. Rangel holds a degree in
electronics and communications engineering from ITESM and a master's degree in
industrial engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology.
Juan Gilberto Flores Villarreal, has been Managing Director for Central
America Division since February 1999. From July 1997 through February 1999, Mr.
Flores served as Logistics Production Manager of Corporativo Copamex, S.A. de
C.V. From March 1995 through March 1997, Mr. Flores served as manager of point
of sales of Excel Logistics, S.A. de C.V. Mr. Flores holds a degree in
administration engineering from UANL. He also holds a master's degree in
administration from UANL.
Jesus Armando Olvera Fonseca has been Managing Director for Consumer
Products Sales since August 1996. From January 1994 through August 1996, Mr.
Olvera served as sales manager of Ceras Johnson, S.A. de C.V. and from August
1992 through December, 1993 he served as nationwide sales manager of Mattel de
Mexico, S.A. de C.V. From November 1979 through July 1992, Mr. Olvera served in
a variety of capacities with Colgate Palmolive, S.A. de C.V.
Carlos Luis Diaz Saenz has been a member of the Board of Directors and
General Counsel since April 1999. From June 1987 through September 1994, Mr.
Diaz served as International Legal Manager of Fomento Economico Mexicano, S.A.
de C.V. and, from September 1994 through March 1999, he served as International
Manager of FEMSA Cerveza, S.A. de C.V. Mr. Diaz holds a law degree from the
Universidad de Monterrey, which we refer to as UDEM.
Francisco Javier Fuentes Garcia has been Chief Officer of Human
Resources since November 1997. From December 1994 through November 1997, Mr.
Fuentes served as manager of human resources with Galvak, S.A. de C.V. From
February 1978 through December 1994, Mr. Fuentes also served in a variety of
capacities with HYLSA, S.A. de C.V. Mr. Fuentes holds a degree in mechanical
engineering from ITESM. He also holds a master's degree in economics from the
University of Utah and an A.D.-1 degree from IPADE.
Rogelio Martinez Cardona has been Chief Officer of Internal Control and
Audit since December 1995. From September 1992 through December 1995, Mr.
Martinez served as Audit Manager. Since November 1979, Mr. Martinez has served
in a variety of capacities with us. Mr. Martinez holds a degree in public
accounting from the Universidad Regiomontana, which we refer to as UR.
Rodolfo Gutierrez Pena has been Corporate Comptroller since June 1991.
From November 1985 through June 1991, Mr. Gutierrez served as accounting and tax
supervisor for Grupo Cemex and from January 1984 through October 1985, he served
as financing planning supervisor of our company. Mr. Gutierrez holds a degree in
public accounting from ITESM.
Armando Vazquez Castillo has been Managing Director of Corrugated
Products since April 1999. Mr. Vazquez served as Director of Packaging from
January 1993 through April 1999. Mr. Vazquez also served in a variety of
capacities with our affiliates since 1972. Mr. Vazquez holds a degree in
industrial administrative engineering from UR.
Carlos Grave Moosbrugger has been Managing Director of Purchasing and
Logistics since April 1999. From January 1994 through April 1999, Mr. Grave
served as Director of Purchasing and from January 1989 through December 1993, he
served as Director of Logistics. Since June 1979, Mr. Grave has served also in a
variety of capacities with us. Mr. Grave holds a degree in business
administration from ITESM.
Pedro Gallardo Arellano has been Chief Officer of Information since
August 1997. From June 1980 through August 1997, Mr. Gallardo served in a
variety of capacities with Cydsa, S.A. de C.V. Mr. Gallardo holds a degree in
computer systems engineering from ITESM.
Jesus Gonzalez Juarez has been Chief Officer of Treasury since December
1996. From January 1990 through December 1996, Mr. Gonzalez served as Finance
Manager. Since January 1979, Mr. Gonzalez has served in a variety of capacities
with us. Mr. Gonzalez holds a degree in public accounting from UDEM.
Jose Peregrina Gomez has been Managing Director of Research and
Development since March 2000. From January 1995 through March 2000 Mr. Peregrina
served as General Manager of Pondercel, and from January 1991 through December
1994, he served as Manager of Research and Development. Previously, from March
1982 through January 1991, Mr. Peregrina served as Project Manager with Compania
Industrial de Atenquique, S.A. de C.V. and from January 1975 through February
1982, he served in different capacities with Loreto & Pena Pobre. Mr. Peregrina
holds a degree in chemical engineering from the Universidad de Guadalajara and a
master's degree in wood, cellulose and paper from the Wood, Cellulose and Paper
Institute.
Manuel Gamino Mendez has been Managing Director of the Consumer
Products Division since July 2000. From August 1997 through June 2000, Mr.
Gamino served as General Manager of Inpamex Planta Huehuetoca, S.A. de C.V.
Previously, from January 1997 through August 1997, Mr. Gamino served as Plant
Manager with Simec, S.A. de C.V. and from July 1972 through November 1996, he
served in different capacities with Crisoba, S.A. de C.V. Mr. Gamino holds a
degree in mechanical engineering from the Universidad Michoana de San Nicolas de
Hidalgo.
Compensation of Directors and Senior Management
In 2001, the aggregate amount of compensation that we paid to all
directors and executive officers as a group was Ps.64.4 million.
Employees
As of December 31, 2001, we employed approximately 6,769 people.
Approximately 56.7% of the workforce is unionized. We negotiate biannual
agreements with each of the seventeen unions that represent our workers, except
that, as required by Mexican law, we renegotiate wages yearly. We have not
experienced a strike in over twelve years. We believe that our relations with
our employees and their unions are good.
Share Ownership by Directors and Senior Management
Ownership by Directors and Senior Management
The following tables show the beneficial ownership of our capital stock
at [March 31, 2001] of each director and senior manager. Our share capital is
currently divided into A, B, C, D, E, F, and G shares. The directors and senior
managers do not have different or preferential voting rights with respect to
those shares they own.
Percentage
of Total
Capital
Stock
Number of Shares Owned Owned
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------
Series A Series B Series C Series D Series E Series F Series G
-------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- ----------
Juan Bosco Maldonado
Quiroga................. 3,000 192,624 66,576 234,013 5,250,904 97,664 0 20.52%
Alejandro Martin Ferrigno Less than
Maldonado............... [0] [0] [0] [0] [0] 123,255 0 1%
Ricardo Maldonado Gonzalez. [0] [0] [0] [0] [0] 518,977 0 1.8%
ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Major Shareholders
We are not directly or indirectly controlled by another corporation or
by any foreign government.
Our share capital is currently divided into A, B, C, D, E, F, and G
shares. These different series of shares have the same par value, voting rights
and are generally identical to each other in all material respects, with the
exception of their date of issuance. The following tables show the beneficial
ownership of our capital stock at December 31, 2001, based on an aggregate of
6,000 series A shares, 385,248 series B shares, 133,152 series C shares, 625,341
series D shares, 19,322,610 series E shares, 7,935,118 series F shares and
65,457 series G shares outstanding on that date, and each person or group of
affiliated persons known by us to own more than 10% or more of any class of our
capital stock.
Number of Shares Owned
Percentage
of Total
Capital
Stock
Series A Series B Series C Series D Series E Series F Series G Owned
-------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -------- -----
Maldonando Quiroga
Family members........... 6,000 385,248 133,152 625,341 10,501,808 380,082 -- 42.26%
Dinamica Industrial
Empresarial, S.A. de
C.V.(1).................. -- -- -- -- 8,820,802 2,741,575 30,580 40.72%
Capital Inmobiliario del
Norte, S.A. de C.V.(1)... -- -- -- -- -- 184,754 -- 0.65%
Maldonado Gonzalez
family members........... -- -- -- -- -- 2,303,414 -- 8.09%
Milenium Inversiones de
Capital, S.A. de C.V.(1) -- -- -- -- -- 990,552 -- 3.48%
Consorcio Inmobiliario
Regiomontario, S.A. de
C.V.(1).................. -- -- -- -- -- 169,605 -- 0.60%
Consorcio de Bienes
Raices del Norte, S.A.
de C.V.(1)............... -- -- -- -- -- 889,546 -- 3.12%
Others................... -- -- -- -- -- 275,620 34,877 1.09%
- ----------
(1) Wholly owned by members of the Maldonado Quiroga family.
Prior to December 2, 1997, we were a holding company whose assets
included, among other things, a 72.0% ownership interest in COINSA, a Mexican
company engaged in the production and sale of pulp and paper products. Our
assets also consisted of assets not related to the paper business. On December
2, 1997, we sold our assets that were not related to the pulp and paper
business. On February 28, 1998, COINSA was merged into us.
Related Party Transactions
Through our subsidiary Corporativo Copamex, S.A. de C.V., we provide
corporate and administrative services (including legal services, systems and
tax-related services) to our affiliates. We believe that these services are
provided on a fair market value basis. Corporativo Copamex, S.A. de C.V.,
generated revenues for these services of Ps.18.3 million in 2000 and Ps.16.3
million in 2001.
During 2000, we made loans on a revolving basis to Dinamica Industrial
Empresarial, S.A. de C.V. ("Dinamica"), a company that owns shares representing
40.72% of our capital stock, and which itself is wholly owned by the Maldonado
Quiroga family, our principal shareholders. These loans bore interest at TIIE
plus 2.25 points (21% at December 31, 2000), which spread may vary according to
market conditions; the accrued interest was paid monthly. The principal amount
of Ps.193.4 million of this loan was originally due on December 31, 2002; and,
in April 2001, it was repaid and new revolving loans were made bearing interest
at a rate equivalent to the weighted average of our financing cost plus 0.25
points. This rate may vary according to market conditions. As of December 31,
2001, the outstanding balance of this loan was Ps.108.7 million and the rate was
13.30%.
In April 2000, Dinamica acquired 100% of the shares of COFISA.
Simultaneously with this acquisition, Dinamica acquired from the shareholders of
COFISA a 31,000 ton-per-year corrugated container plant. During 2001, we
acquired 45% of the capital stock of COFISA. On October 1, 2001, we performed a
corporate restructuring and as a result of such reorganization, (i) the
operations of COFISA and of Cajas y Empaques Industriales, S.A. de C.V.
(formerly a subsidiary of ours) were merged into Copamex Corrugados, S.A. de
C.V.; and (ii) our participation in Copamex Corrugados, S.A. de C.V. decreased
from 99.9% to approximately 90% (Dinamica currently holds approximately the
remaining 10%). The account receivables in favor of us and against COFISA, as of
December 31, 2001, which amount to Ps.13 million, arise from a loan for working
capital, as well as kraft paper sales for the manufacture of corrugated boxes.
Such account receivables have been included in the restructuring mentioned
before. We intend to acquire the remaining shares of COFISA and Copamex
Corrugados when our financial condition allows us to do so without incurring
debt. We cannot assure you that we will be able to acquire these assets at all
or that we will be able to do so without incurring debt.
In August 31, 2000, COHINSA acquired all the assets related to the
manufacture and sale of baby diapers of Drypers Corporation in Mexico. During
2001, we acquired 45% of the capital stock of COHINSA. We also intend to acquire
the remaining shares of COHINSA when our financial condition allows us to do so
without incurring debt. We cannot assure you that we will be able to acquire
these assets at all or that we will be able to do so without incurring debt.
We grant short-term financing to COHINSA for working capital needs, on
a revolving basis. As of December 31, 2001, the accounts receivable with COHINSA
was of Ps.82.9 million. This loan accrues interest at a variable rate equivalent
to TIIE plus 2.35 percentage points. The spread may vary according to market
conditions; the accrued interests are paid monthly. Starting in July 2000,
through Copamex Comercial, S.A. de C.V., one of our subsidiaries, we commenced
sale and distribution of all of COHINSA's baby diapers production. As of
December 31, 2001, the outstanding balance of the accounts payable to COHINSA
was of Ps.31.2 million. The terms of sale are of 60 days credit after invoicing.
Therefore, we have net accounts receivable with COHINSA of Ps.51.7 million
pesos.
We have an accounts payable with Grupo Empresarial Sierra Madre, S.A.
de C.V., an affiliate of ours, in the amount of Ps.7.1 million. This relates to
cash our affiliate had on hand that we borrowed.
Due to the loans made to our affiliates referred to above, we had
interest income of Ps.24.9 million in 2001 and Ps.21.1 million in 2000. Due to
our borrowings from our affiliates referred to above, we had interest expense of
Ps.368,000 in 2001 and Ps.1.3 million in 2000.
We rent certain property from our affiliates, such as warehouses, and
our affiliates rent certain property from us, such as offices. Due to these
transactions, we had rental income of Ps.560,000 in 2001 and Ps.636,000 in 2000
and rental expense of Ps.1.9 million in 2001 and Ps.1.8 million in 2000.
Our purchase of capital stock in COFISA and COHINSA mentioned above
cost us Ps.183.5 million in 2001.
Our purchases of baby diapers from our affiliate COHINSA totaled
Ps.149.3 million in 2001 and Ps.38.1 million in 2000.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
See "Item 18: Financial Statements." For information on our dividend
policy, see "Item 3: Key Information-- Dividends." For information on legal
proceedings related to us, see "Item 10: Additional Information-- Legal
Proceedings."
ITEM 9. THE OFFER AND THE LISTING
On April 25, 1997, we issued US$200 million in aggregate principal
amount of our 11.375% Senior Notes Due 2004 under an exception to the
registration requirement of Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities
Act"). These 11.375% Series B Senior Notes due 2004 were subsequently exchanged
for 11.375% Series B Senior Notes due 2004 registered with the U.S. Securities
and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act ("11.375% Series B Senior Notes
due 2004"). As of March 31, 2002, US$178.7 million of our 11.375% Series B
Senior Notes due 2004 and US$1.57 million of the 11.375% Senior Notes Due 2004
were outstanding. These notes are traded on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange.
Our stock is not traded on any stock exchange and is sold rather
infrequently and at varying prices. Thus, the market for our stock is illiquid.
ITEM 10. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
MEMORANDUM AND ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
Set forth below is a description of the significant provisions of our
bylaws and applicable Mexican law. This description is only a summary and is
qualified by reference to our bylaws, a copy of which is filed as an exhibit to
this annual report, and applicable Mexican law.
General
We are a corporation (sociedad anonima de capital variable) organized
in Mexico under the Mexican Companies Law (Ley General de Sociedades
Mercantiles). We were registered in Vol. 215, Page 3, Number 156 of the Public
Registry of Commerce in Monterrey, Mexico (Registro Publico de Comercio de
Monterrey) on April 6, 1976. We have a corporate life of 99 years. Our corporate
purpose, as fully described in Clause Fourth of our bylaws, is to act as a
holding company. As such, our bylaws grant us the power to engage in various
activities, which allow us to function as a holding company. These powers
include, but are not limited to, the ability to (1) create, administer and hold
shares in various corporations and other business organizations; (2) enter into
contracts; (3) issue securities and take all actions with respect to securities
of any kind; (4) enter into loans and other credit obligations and provide
guarantees; (5) acquire, sell and maintain real property; (6) perform or receive
professional, technical or consulting services; (7) acquire, license or use
intellectual property; (8) act as an agent or representative; and (9) perform
any acts necessary to accomplish the foregoing and our other powers contained in
the bylaws but not listed herein.
Directors
Our bylaws provide that the management of the corporation shall be
vested in the Board of Directors. Each director is elected by a simple majority
of the shares, and there are no provisions for cumulative voting. The size of
the Board of Directors is determined by the shareholders at the annual ordinary
general shareholders' meeting. The directors serve for an indefinite term until
they resign or are removed by the shareholders. A majority of directors is
needed to constitute a quorum, and board resolutions must be passed by a
majority of the votes present at any validly constituted meeting or by unanimous
consent if no meeting is convened.
Under Mexican law, any member of the Board of Directors who has a
conflict of interest with the corporation in any transaction must disclose such
fact to the other directors and abstain from voting. Any member of the Board of
Directors voting on a business transaction in which its interest conflicts with
ours may be liable for damages caused to the corporation if such transaction
would not have been approved without such member's vote.
Under Mexican law, an action for civil liabilities against members of
the Board of Directors may be initiated by resolution passed by a majority of
the shareholders at an ordinary shareholder's meeting. As directors have the
general duty to oversee for the good conduct of business, the breach of this
duty is actionable. In the event the majority of the shareholders decide to
bring such action, the person against whom such action is brought will
immediately cease to be a member of the Board of Directors. Additionally,
shareholders representing not less than 33% of our outstanding shares may
directly take such action against the members of the Board of Directors,
provided that (i) such shareholders have not voted against taking such action at
the relevant shareholder's meeting, and (ii) the claim in question covers damage
alleged to have been caused to the corporation and not merely to the individual
plaintiff. Any recovery of damages with respect to such action will be for the
benefit of us and not for the shareholders bringing the action.
No member of the Board of Directors is empowered to act alone but only
as part of the Board of Directors, unless expressly vested with a power of
attorney, in which case such member will act as an authorized representative and
not in his capacity as a member of the Board of Directors.
Share Rights and Preferences and Restrictions
Our share capital is currently divided into A, B, C, D, E, F, and G
shares. These different series of shares have the same par value, voting rights
and are generally identical to each other in all material respects, with the
exception of their date of issuance.
Voting Rights and Shareholders' Meetings
Each share, regardless of the series held, entitles the holder thereof
to one vote at any general meeting of our shareholders. Holders of any series
are entitled to elect all members of the Board of Directors.
Under Mexican law, the holders of shares of any series are also
entitled to vote at a special shareholders' meeting on any action that would
prejudice the rights of holders of such series but not the rights of holders of
all other shares. Such a holder would be entitled to judicial relief against any
such action affecting a particular series taken without the approval of holders
of that series at such a meeting. A shareholder who believes an action requires
a special meeting may demand that the Board of Directors or the statutory
auditor call such meeting. Any determination that an action does not require a
vote at a special meeting would be subject to judicial challenge by an affected
shareholder, and the necessity for a vote at a special meeting would ultimately
be determined by a Mexican court of competent jurisdiction. Mexican law does not
provide guidance on the criteria to be applied in making such a determination.
General shareholders' meetings may be ordinary or extraordinary
meetings. Extraordinary general meetings are meetings called to consider the
matters specified in Article 182 of the Mexican Companies Law and our bylaws
including, principally, changes in the fixed portion of the capital stock and
other amendments to the bylaws, anticipated dissolution and liquidation, merger,
transformation from one type of corporate form to another, change in nationality
and change in corporate purpose. Ordinary general shareholders' meetings must be
held at least annually during the four months following the end of each fiscal
year, to consider the matters specified in Article 181 of the Mexican Companies
Law including, principally, the election of directors and the statutory auditor,
the approval of the report of the Board of Directors regarding our performance
and our financial statements for the preceding fiscal year, the allocation of
our profits and losses for the preceding year and payments of dividends.
Under our bylaws, the quorum for an ordinary general meeting is at
least 50% of the shares, provided that it is the first attempt to convene a
meeting, and action may be taken by a majority of the shares present. If a
quorum is not available on the first attempt to convene a meeting, a second
meeting may be called, at which action may be taken by a majority of shares
present, regardless of the number of shares present. The quorum for the first
attempt to convene a general extraordinary meeting or a special meeting is 75%
of the outstanding shares. If a quorum is not available on the first attempt, a
second meeting may be called, provided that at least 50% of the outstanding
shares is represented. Whether on the first or subsequent attempts, for a
resolution of a general extraordinary meeting to be validly adopted, the
favorable vote of the holders of at least 50% of the outstanding shares is
required.
Shareholders' meetings may be called by the Board of Directors, the
statutory auditor or any Mexican court of competent jurisdiction. The Board of
Directors or the statutory auditor may be required to call a meeting of
shareholders by the holders of 33% of our outstanding capital stock.
In addition, the Board of Directors or the statutory auditor must call
a shareholders' meeting at the written request of any shareholder if no ordinary
general shareholders' meeting has been held for two consecutive years or if the
shareholders' meetings held during such a period have not considered the items
mentioned in Article 181 of the Mexican Companies Law, discussed above. In the
event that a meeting is not called within 15 days following the date of such a
request, a Mexican court may require such meeting to be called.
Notice of meetings must be published in the official gazette in our
domicile or in a newspaper of general circulation in Mexico City at least 15
days prior to the meeting. Shareholders' meetings may be held without such
publication provided that 100% of the outstanding shares with voting rights on
the matters to be addressed by such meeting are represented. In order to attend
a shareholders' meeting, a shareholder must request and obtain an admission card
by furnishing, at least one business day before the time set for holding the
shareholders' meeting, appropriate evidence of its ownership of shares and
depositing such shares with our corporate secretary or with an institution
authorized to accept such deposit. If so entitled to attend the meeting, a
shareholder may be represented by proxy signed before two witnesses. See
"--Registration and Transfer."
Under Mexican law, holders of 33% of our outstanding capital stock may
request that any shareholder action be suspended by filing a complaint with a
Mexican court of competent jurisdiction within 15 days after the close of the
meeting at which such action was taken, by showing that the challenged action
violates Mexican law or our bylaws. Relief under these provisions is only
available to holders who were entitled to vote on the challenged shareholder
action and whose shares were not represented when the action was taken or, if
represented, were voted against it.
Dividends and Distributions
At the annual ordinary general shareholders' meeting, the Board of
Directors submits our financial statements for the previous fiscal year,
together with a report thereon by the Board of Directors, to the holders of any
series for their consideration. The shareholders, once they have approved the
financial statements, determine the allocation of our net profits, if any, for
the preceding year. They are required by law to allocate 5% of such net profits
to a legal reserve, which is not thereafter available for distribution until the
amount of the legal reserve equals 20% of our historical capital stock (before
adjusting for inflation). At December 31, 2001, our legal reserve fund was equal
to 5% of our paid-in capital stock. Amounts in excess of those allocated to the
legal reserve fund may be allocated to other reserve funds as the shareholders
determine, including a reserve for the repurchase of our shares. The remaining
balance of net profits, if any, is available for distribution as dividends. No
dividends may be paid, however, unless losses for prior fiscal years have been
paid up or absorbed. See "Item 3: Key Information--Dividends."
Holders of any series have equal rights, on a per share basis, to
dividends and other distributions, including any distributions upon our
liquidation. Partially paid shares may participate in any distribution to the
extent that such shares have been paid at the time of the distribution or, if
not paid, only with respect to the proportion paid.
Statute of limitations regarding claims of dividends or other
distributions is five years, after which time the relevant company is released
from such payment obligations.
Liquidation
Upon our dissolution, one or more liquidators must be appointed by an
extraordinary shareholders' general meeting to wind up our affairs. All fully
paid and outstanding shares of capital stock will be entitled to participate
equally in any distribution upon liquidation. Partially paid shares participate
in a liquidation distribution in the same manner as they would in a dividend
distribution.
Changes in Capital Stock
An increase of capital stock may generally be effected through the
issuance of new shares for payment in cash or in kind, by capitalization of
indebtedness or by capitalization of certain items of shareholders' equity. An
increase of capital stock generally may not be effected until all previously
issued and subscribed shares of capital stock have been fully paid. Generally, a
reduction of capital stock may be effected to absorb losses, to redeem shares,
or to release shareholders from payments not made. A reduction of capital stock
to redeem shares is effected by reimbursing holders of shares pro rata or by
lot. Shareholders may also approve the redemption of fully paid shares with
retained earnings.
The fixed portion of our capital stock may only be increased or
decreased by resolution of a general extraordinary meeting and an amendment to
the bylaws, whereas the variable portion of our capital stock may be increased
or decreased by resolution of a general ordinary meeting. See "--Other
Provisions--Fixed and Variable Capital."
No resolution by the shareholders is required for decreases in capital
stock resulting from exercise of the right to withdraw variable shares or from
our purchase of shares or for increases in capital stock resulting from our sale
of shares that we previously purchased. See "--Other Provisions--Our Purchase of
Shares" and "--Other Provisions--Appraisal Rights."
Preemptive Rights
Except in certain limited circumstances, in the event of a capital
increase through the issuance of new shares for payment in cash or in kind, a
holder of existing shares of a given series at the time of the capital increase
has a preferential right to subscribe for a sufficient number of new shares of
the same series to maintain the holder's existing proportionate holdings of
shares of that series. Preemptive rights must be exercised within 15 days
following the publication of notice of the capital increase in the Diario
Oficial de la Federacion or following the date of the shareholders' meeting at
which the capital increase was approved if all shareholders were represented at
such meeting; otherwise such rights will lapse. Under Mexican law, preemptive
rights cannot be waived in advance by a shareholder, except under limited
circumstances, and cannot be represented by an instrument that is negotiable
separately from the corresponding share.
Foreign Investment Restrictions
Under our bylaws, foreign investors may purchase shares and, as a
result, vote at shareholder meetings.
Registration and Transfer
Our shares are evidenced by certificates in registered form, which may
have dividend coupons attached. We maintain a stock registry, and in accordance
with Mexican law, we recognize as our shareholders only those holders listed in
the stock registry. Shareholders may hold their shares in the form of physical
certificates which, together with notations made in our stock registry, evidence
ownership of those shares.
Other Provisions
Fixed and Variable Capital
As a corporation with variable capital, we are permitted to issue
shares constituting variable capital. The issuance of variable capital shares,
unlike the issuance of fixed capital shares, does not require an amendment of
the bylaws, although it does require approval at a general ordinary
shareholders' meeting.
Under our bylaws, variable capital is unlimited and thus may be
increased up to any amount. Outstanding variable capital shares, if any, may be
fully withdrawn by the holders thereof. The minimum fixed portion of our capital
stock cannot be withdrawn. A holder of variable capital stock that wishes to
effect a total or partial withdrawal of such stock is required to notify us in
an authenticated written notice to that effect. If notice of withdrawal is
received prior to the last quarter of the fiscal year, the withdrawal becomes
effective at the end of the following fiscal year.
Redemption of our variable capital stock is made at the book value per
variable capital share as calculated from our financial statements for the
fiscal year at the end of which the withdrawal is to become effective.
Forfeiture of Shares
As required by Mexican law, our bylaws provide that our current or
future foreign shareholders are required to consider themselves as Mexican
nationals with respect to our shares that they may acquire or of which they may
be owners, and with respect in the property, rights, concessions, participations
or interests that we may own or rights and obligations that are based on
contracts to which we are a party with the Mexican authorities. Such
shareholders cannot invoke the protection of their government under penalty of
forfeiting to the Mexican State the corporate ownership interest that they may
have acquired. Under this provision, a non-Mexican shareholder is deemed to have
agreed not to invoke the protection of his own government with respect to his
rights as a shareholder, but is not deemed to have waived any other rights it
may have with respect to its investment in us, including any rights under U.S.
securities laws. If the shareholder should invoke such governmental protection
in violation of this agreement, its shares could be forfeited to the Mexican
State. Mexican law requires that such a provision be included in the bylaws of
all Mexican corporations unless such bylaws prohibit ownership of capital stock
by non-Mexican investors.
Shareholder Conflicts of Interest
Under Mexican law, any shareholder that has a conflict of interest with
respect to any transaction must abstain from voting thereon at the relevant
shareholders' meeting. A shareholder that votes on a business transaction in
which its interest conflicts with ours may be liable for damages if the
transaction would not have been approved without such shareholder's vote.
Appraisal Rights
Whenever the shareholders approve a change of corporate purpose, change
of our nationality or transformation from one type of corporate form to another,
any shareholder entitled to vote on such change or transformation who has voted
against it has the right to withdraw from us and receive the amount calculated
as specified under Mexican law attributable to its shares, provided such
shareholder exercises its right to withdraw within 15 days following the
adjournment of the meeting at which the change or transformation was approved.
Under Mexican law, the amount which a withdrawing shareholder is entitled to
receive is equal to its proportionate interest in our capital stock according to
our most recent balance sheet approved by an ordinary general meeting of
shareholders.
Rights of Shareholders
The protections afforded to minority shareholders under Mexican law are
different from those in the United States and many other jurisdictions. The
substantive law concerning fiduciary duties of directors and controlling
shareholders has not been the subject of extensive judicial interpretation in
Mexico, unlike many states in the United States where duties of care and loyalty
elaborated by judicial decisions help to shape the rights of minority
shareholders. Mexican civil procedure does not contemplate class actions or
shareholder derivative actions, which permit shareholders in U.S. courts to
bring actions on behalf of other shareholders or to enforce rights of the
corporation itself. However, an action for civil liabilities against members of
the Board of Directors may be initiated by resolution passed by a majority of
the shareholders at an ordinary shareholder's meeting. Additionally,
shareholders representing not less than 33% of our outstanding shares may
directly take such action against the members of the Board of Directors,
provided that (i) such shareholders have not voted against taking such action at
the relevant shareholder's meeting, and (ii) the claim in question covers damage
alleged to have been caused to the corporation and not merely to the individual
plaintiff, as described above under "--Directors."
As a result of these factors, in practice it may be more difficult for
our minority shareholders to enforce rights against us or our directors or
controlling shareholders than it would be for shareholders of a U.S. company.
We have been advised by Carlos Luis Diaz Saenz, our General Counsel,
that there is doubt as to the enforceability in original actions in Mexican
courts of liabilities predicated solely upon U.S. federal securities laws and as
to the enforceability in Mexican courts of judgments of U.S. courts obtained in
actions predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the U.S. Federal
securities laws. Because substantially all of our assets are located in Mexico,
holders of our securities may effectively be required to pursue in Mexico, under
Mexican law, any claims they may have against us without the benefit of the U.S.
federal securities laws.
MATERIAL CONTRACTS
Related Party Transactions
Our agreements with related parties are described in "Item 7: Major
Shareholders and Related Party Transactions--Related Party Transactions."
Major Indebtedness
A description of our significant debt obligations is contained in "Item
5: Operating and Financial Review and Prospects--Liquidity and Capital
Resources--Liquidity."
LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
Distribution Contract Claim
In September 2001, one of our distributors in Costa Rica brought suit
against Sancela claiming that Sancela breached its obligations under its
distribution agreement. This case is currently pending. We do not expect such
proceeding, if determined adversely to Sancela, to have a material adverse
effect on our results of operations or financial condition. As a result, we have
not set aside any material reserves for this contingent liability.
New Tax Law
On January 1, 2002, a law imposing a "salary credit substitutive tax"
went into effect whereby employers are required to pay a tax equivalent to 3% of
employee salaries (which includes fringe benefits and other forms of employee
compensation). Alternatively, employers may avoid such tax payment by choosing
not to credit against their own income tax the amounts corresponding to
subsidies granted by the government to workers in connection with their income
tax (which subsidies the employer pays to its workers as part of their
salaries). We have filed a petition to enjoin the application of this provision
because we consider it unconstitutional. We do not expect such proceedings, if
determined adversely to us, to have a material adverse effect on our results of
operations or financial condition. As a result, we have not set aside any
reserves for any contingent liabilities that may derive from an adverse
determination in this matter.
Other
We are a party to various other legal proceedings in the ordinary
course of our business. We do not expect such proceedings, if determined
adversely to us, individually or in the aggregate, to have a material adverse
effect on our results of operations or financial condition. As a result, we have
not set aside any reserves for these litigation contingencies.
EXCHANGE CONTROLS
Mexico has had a free market for foreign exchange since 1991, and the
government has allowed the peso to float freely against the U.S. dollar since
December 1994. There can be no assurance that the government will maintain its
current foreign exchange policies. See "Item 3: Key Information-- Exchange Rate
Information."
TAXATION
The following is a summary of certain Mexican federal tax consequences
and U.S. federal income tax consequences under present law with respect to the
purchase, ownership and disposition of the Notes. For U.S. federal income tax
purposes, it addresses only investors that purchased the Notes in the original
offering at the original offering price who hold the Notes as capital assets and
whose functional currency is the U.S. dollar. The discussion does not address
all Mexican federal tax consequences or U.S. federal income tax considerations
that may be relevant to particular investors, nor does it address the special
tax rules applicable to certain categories of investors such as banks, dealers,
traders who elect to mark to market, tax-exempt entities, persons that will hold
Notes through a partnership or other pass-through entity, insurance companies
and investors who hold the Notes as part of a hedge, straddle, conversion or
integrated transaction. In addition, aspects of Mexican tax law that may be
applicable to the holders of the Notes or owners of beneficial interests in the
Notes, including foreign corporations, that are owned or controlled by Mexican
entities are not discussed. The discussion also does not address any tax
consequences under the tax laws of any state or locality of Mexico or the United
States.
This summary is based on the federal tax laws of Mexico and the United
States as in effect on the date of this annual report. Such tax laws are subject
to change, possibly with retroactive effect, which change could affect the
continued validity of this summary. This summary does not constitute tax advice;
prospective purchasers and holders of the Notes are advised to consult their own
tax advisors in respect of the consequences that the purchase, ownership or
disposition of the Notes may have under the laws of Mexico, the United States or
any other jurisdiction.
United States/Mexico Tax Treaty
A Convention for the Avoidance of Double Taxation, together with a
related Protocol thereto (collectively, the "Tax Treaty"), between Mexico and
the United States took effect on January 1, 1994. The United States and Mexico
have also entered into an agreement that covers the exchange of information with
respect to tax matters.
Mexican Taxation
General
The following is a general summary of the principal consequences, under
Mexico's income tax law (Ley del Impuesto sobre la Renta) (the "Law") and
regulations thereunder as currently in effect, of the purchase, ownership and
disposition of the Notes by a holder that is not a resident of Mexico for tax
purposes and that will not hold Notes or a beneficial interest therein in
connection with the conduct of a trade or business through a permanent
establishment in Mexico (a "Foreign Holder"). For purposes of Mexican taxation,
an individual is a resident of Mexico if such person has established his or her
domicile in Mexico, unless such person has resided in another country for more
than 183 days, whether consecutive or not, during a calendar year and can
demonstrate that such person has become a resident of that country for tax
purposes. A legal entity is a resident of Mexico if it is established under
Mexican law or if it maintains the principal administration of its business or
the effective location of its management in Mexico. A Mexican citizen is
presumed to be a resident of Mexico unless such person can demonstrate the
contrary. A permanent establishment in Mexico of a foreign person will be
regarded as a resident of Mexico, and such permanent establishment will be
required to pay taxes in Mexico in accordance with applicable law, for income
attributable to such permanent establishment.
Taxation of Payments of Interest
Under the Law, payments of interest (including original issue discount
which is deemed interest under the Law) made by us in respect of the Notes to a
Foreign Holder will generally be subject to a Mexican withholding tax assessed
at a rate of 4.9% if, as expected:
o the Notes are placed by banks or investment banks in a country with
which Mexico has entered into a treaty for the avoidance of double
taxation, and such treaty is in effect;
o the Notes are registered with the Special Section of the RNV; and
o we comply with the information requirements specified from time to
time by the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit under its general
rules.
If all of the conditions specified above are not satisfied, the Mexican
withholding tax rate applicable to payments of interests under the
Notes may be significantly higher.
If the effective beneficiaries, whether acting directly or indirectly,
individually or jointly with related parties, receive more than 5% of the
interest paid under the Notes and (i) are persons who own directly or
indirectly, individually or with related parties 10% or more of our voting stock
or (ii) are entities, of which 20% or more of its voting stock is owned directly
or indirectly, jointly or severally by persons related to us, the Mexican
withholding tax rate applicable to payments of interest under the Notes may be
significantly higher.
We have agreed, subject to exceptions, to pay additional amounts in
respect of Mexican withholding taxes applicable to interest payments on the
Notes.
Payments of interest made by us in respect of the Notes to non-Mexican
pension or retirement funds will be exempt from Mexican withholding taxes if (i)
such fund is organized pursuant to the laws of its country of residence and is
the effective beneficiary of the interest payment, (ii) the income from such
interest payment is exempt from income tax in that country and (iii) such fund
is registered with the Ministry of Finance and Public Credit for that purpose.
Under Mexican law, payments of principal made by us in respect of the
Notes to a Foreign Holder will not be subject to Mexican withholding taxes.
Dispositions
Capital gains from the sale or other disposition of the Notes by a
Foreign Holder will not be subject to Mexican income or withholding taxes.
Other Mexican Tax Considerations
Under the Law, any discount received by a non-resident upon purchase of
the Notes is deemed interest income and, therefore, subject to taxes in Mexico.
Such interest income is calculated as the difference between the face value
(plus accrued interest not subject to withholding) and the purchase price of the
Notes. If a Note is sold by a Mexican resident or a non-resident with a
permanent establishment in Mexico, such taxes must be paid by the seller, on
behalf of the non-resident purchaser, within 15 days after the sale. However,
when the sale is made by a Foreign Holder, the Law is unclear as to how such
taxes, if any, would be paid by or on behalf of the purchaser.
Estate or Similar Tax
A Foreign Holder will not be liable for Mexican estate, gift,
inheritance or similar taxes with respect to its holding of the Notes, nor will
it be liable for Mexican stamp, registration or similar taxes in respect of such
holding.
U.S. Federal Income Taxation
The following summary contains a description of the principal U.S.
federal income tax consequences pertaining to the purchase, ownership, and
disposition of the Notes, but it does not purport to be a comprehensive
description of all of the tax considerations that may be relevant to a decision
to own or dispose of the Note. This summary is based on the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986, as amended, (the "Code"), Treasury regulations promulgated
thereunder, administrative and judicial interpretations thereof, as in effect on
the date of this annual report, all of which are subject to change, possibly
with retroactive effect.
For purposes of this discussion, a "U.S. Holder" is any beneficial
owner of the Notes that is (i) a citizen or resident of the United States, (ii)
a corporation organized under the laws of the United States or any political
subdivision thereof, or (iii) a person or entity that otherwise will be subject
to U.S. federal income tax on a net income basis in respect of the Notes. A
"Non-U.S. Holder" is any beneficial owner of the Notes that is not a U.S. Holder
for U.S. federal income tax purposes.
U.S. Holders
Interest and Additional Amounts. A U.S. Holder will treat the gross
amount of interest (including Additional Amounts, if any) paid in respect of the
Notes as ordinary interest income at the time that it is paid or accrued, in
accordance with the U.S. Holder's method of accounting for U.S. federal income
tax purposes. Mexican withholding taxes paid at the appropriate rate applicable
to the U.S. Holder will be treated as foreign income taxes eligible for credit
against such U.S. Holder's U.S. federal income tax liability, subject to
generally applicable limitations and conditions, or, at the election of such
U.S. Holder, for deduction in computing such U.S. Holder's taxable income. For
foreign tax credit purposes, during any period in which the rate of withholding
is less than 5%, such income generally will constitute "passive income" or, in
the case of certain holders, "financial services income." If the Mexican
withholding tax rate applicable to the U.S. Holder is 5% or more, such income
generally will constitute "high withholding tax interest."
The calculation of foreign tax credits and, in the case of a U.S.
Holder that elects to deduct foreign taxes, the availability of deductions,
involves the application of rules that depend on a U.S. Holder's particular
circumstances. U.S. Holders should consult their own tax advisers concerning the
implications of these rules in light of their particular circumstances.
Disposition of the Notes. In general, subject to the discussion of the
Exchange Offer below, a U.S. Holder of the Notes will recognize gain or loss
upon the sale, exchange, redemption, retirement or other disposition of the
Notes equal to the difference between the amount realized on the disposition (to
the extent such amount does not represent accrued but unpaid interest which will
be taxable as ordinary income to the extent not previously included in income)
and the U.S. Holder's adjusted basis in the Notes, which will generally equal
the holder's acquisition price for the Notes. Such gain or loss generally will
be capital gain or loss and will be long-term capital gain or loss if the U.S.
Holder holds the Notes for more than one year prior to disposition. Long-term
capital gain realized by a U.S. Holder that is an individual generally is
subject to a maximum rate of 20%.
Non-U.S. Holders
Subject to the discussion of backup withholding below, a Non-U.S.
Holder of Notes generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax,
including withholding taxes, on any payments of interest and Additional Amounts
paid in respect of the Notes, unless such income is effectively connected with
the conduct by the Non-U.S. Holder of a trade or business in the United States.
Subject to the discussion of backup withholding below, a Non-U.S.
Holder will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on any capital gain
realized on the sale or exchange of the Notes, unless (i) such gain is
effectively connected with the conduct by the holder of a trade or business in
the United States or (ii) in the case of gain realized by an individual Non-U.S.
Holder, the Non-U.S. Holder is present in the United States for 183 days or more
in the taxable year of the sale and certain other conditions are met.
Any interest, Additional Amounts or gain that is effectively connected
with a Non-U.S. Holder's trade or business in the United States generally will
be taxed on a net income basis at the graduated rates applicable to U.S.
Holders, unless an applicable income tax treaty provides otherwise. In the case
of a Non-U.S. Holder that is a corporation, such income may also be subject to a
branch profits tax at a rate of 30% or a lower rate under an applicable income
tax treaty.
Backup Withholding and Information Reporting
Our paying agent may be required to file information returns with the
U.S. Internal Revenue Service with respect to payments made to certain U.S.
Holders of the Notes. In addition, certain U.S. Holders may be subject to a
backup withholding tax in respect of such payments, unless they (i) provide
their taxpayer identification numbers to the Paying Agent and certify that they
are not subject to backup withholding or (ii) otherwise establish an exemption
from backup withholding tax. Non-U.S. Holders of the Notes may be required to
comply with applicable certification procedures to establish that they are not
U.S. Holders in order to avoid the application of such information reporting
requirements and backup withholding tax.
Any amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules are not an
additional tax and may be refunded or credited against the holder's U.S. federal
income tax liability, if any, provided the required information is furnished to
the U.S. Internal Revenue Service.
THE U.S. AND MEXICAN FEDERAL INCOME TAX DISCUSSION SET FORTH ABOVE IS
INCLUDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND MAY NOT BE APPLICABLE DEPENDING UPON A
HOLDER'S PARTICULAR SITUATION. HOLDERS SHOULD CONSULT THEIR TAX ADVISORS WITH
RESPECT TO THE TAX CONSEQUENCES TO THEM OF THE PURCHASE, OWNERSHIP AND
DISPOSITION OF THE NOTES, INCLUDING THE TAX CONSEQUENCES UNDER STATE, LOCAL,
FOREIGN, AND OTHER TAX LAWS AND THE POSSIBLE EFFECTS OF CHANGES IN THE U.S.
FEDERAL, MEXICAN OR OTHER TAX LAWS.
DOCUMENTS ON DISPLAY
You may obtain copies of this annual report and the exhibits hereto,
at the Securities and Exchange Commission's reference rooms in Washington, D.C.,
New York, NY, and Chicago IL. Please call the Securities and Exchange Commission
at 1-800-SEC-0330. As a foreign private issuer, we are not required to make
filings with the Commission by electronic means, although we may do so. Any
filings we make electronically will be available to the public over the Internet
at the Securities and Exchange Commission's web site at http://www.sec.gov.
ITEM 11. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK
Interest Rate Risk
Our earnings are affected by changes in interest rates, because we are
exposed to interest rate risk on our existing floating rate debt and any new
floating rate debt that we incur. Our principal indebtedness at December 31,
2001 and the interest payable thereon included the following:
o our short-term debt, primarily in the form of lines of credit,
amounting to US$136.4 million and bearing interest at a
weighted-average variable rate of 6.94%;
o our U.S. dollar denominated long-term debt amounting to US$354.3
million and bearing interest at the following rates:
o for a US$90 million portion, three-month LIBOR plus 4.0%,
o for a US$50 million portion, 9.0%,
o for a US$29.8 million portion, six-month LIBOR plus 1.81%,
o for a US$4.2 million portion, a weighted average rate of 7.55%;
o for the Notes, of which US$180.3 million remain outstanding,
11.375% and;
o our peso-denominated long-term debt, primarily under the
Certificados Bursatiles Program, amounted to Ps.300 million
(US$32.7) and bearing interest at a rate of TIIE plus 1.75%.
A hypothetical, instantaneous and unfavorable change of 100 basis
points in the interest rate applicable to floating-rate financial assets and
liabilities held at December 31, 2001 would have resulted in additional interest
expense of approximately Ps.24.3 million per year, assuming no change in the
principal amount of such indebtedness.
Foreign Exchange Rate Risk
Most of our debt obligations are denominated in U.S. dollars while we
generate revenues in pesos. Therefore, we are exposed to currency exchange rate
risks that could significantly affect our ability to meet our obligations. We
currently do not plan to enter into hedging transactions with respect to these
foreign currency risks, but we continue to consider the appropriateness of this
option. Mexico maintains a floating exchange rate regime and the peso has
experienced significant devaluations in recent years. Any significant decrease
in the value of the peso relative to the U.S. dollar in the near term may have a
material adverse effect on our liquidity and on our ability to meet our debt
obligations. Exchange rate risk exists principally with respect to our
indebtedness denominated in currencies other than Mexican pesos. As of December
31, 2001, indebtedness denominated in foreign currencies was Ps.4,479.0 million,
of which Ps.4,479.0 million was denominated in U.S. dollars. At December 31,
2001, a hypothetical 10% devaluation of the peso relative to the U.S. dollar
would give us a Ps.447.9 million (US$44.4 million) exchange loss on our debt
over a one-year period.
Hedging Arrangements
We are currently party to the Bancomer swap described in "--Liquidity
and Capital Resources--Other Contractual Obligations." We are not currently
party to any interest rate hedging arrangements related to our dollar
denominated obligations. We may enter into any such agreements at any time.
PART II
ITEM 13. DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREAGES AND DELINQUENCIES
None.
TEM 14. MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND THE USE
OF PROCEEDS
None.
PART III
ITEM 18. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Our financial statements are included in this Form 20-F beginning at
page F-1.
ITEM 19. EXHIBITS
LIST OF EXHIBITS
NUMBER DESCRIPTION
------ -----------
1 Our bylaws (estatutos), together with an English translation.**
2(b)(1) Indenture, dated April 25, 1997, among us, IBJ Schroder Bank &
Trust Company, as Trustee, and Citibank, N.A., as Principal
Paying Agent and Security Registrar.*
2(b)(2) Registration Rights Agreement., dated April 30, 1997, among
Citibank, N.A., the other initial purchasers named therein and
us.*
4(a)(1) Contract among us, Papeles Industriales Crisoba, S.A. de C.V.,
Fincas Industriales, S.A. de C.V. and SCA Molnlycke AB for the
acquisition of 51% of the shares of Sancela, S.A. de C.V., dated
September 19, 1996.*
4(a)(2) Contract among us, Papeles Higienicos del Centro, S.A. de C.V.
and Kimberly-Clark de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. for the acquisition
of a tissue manufacturing facility in Ecatepec, Mexico, dated
April 24, 1997.*
4(a)(3) Summary of Restructuring Agreement dated July 26, 1996.*
7 Calculation of ratio of earnings to fixed charges.
8 List of most important subsidiaries as of June 1, 2002
* Previously filed in our registration statement on Form F-4, as amended
(File No. 333-7238), originally filed with the Commission on July 29, 1997.
Incorporated herein by reference.
** Previously filed in our annual report on Form 20-F on (File No. 333-7238),
filed with the Commission on July 2, 2001. Incorporated herein by
reference.
SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934, the registrant, Copamex, S.A. de C.V., certifies that it has reasonable
grounds to believe that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F
and has duly caused this annual report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
COPAMEX, S.A. DE C.V.
By /s/ Carlos Luis Diaz Saenz
--------------------------
Carlos Luis Diaz Saenz
General Counsel
June 28, 2002
Index to Financial Statements
Consolidated Financial Statements of Copamex, S.A. de C.V. and Subsidiaries
Page
Annual Financial Information
Report of Independent Auditors...............................................F-2
Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2001 and 2000.................F-3
Consolidated Statements of Income for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000
and 1999.....................................................................F-4
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders' Equity for the years ended
December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999.............................................F-5
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Financial Position for the years ended
December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999.............................................F-6
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements as of December 31, 2001, 2000 and
1999.........................................................................F-7
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
The Board of Directors and Stockholders of
Copamex, S.A. de C.V.
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of
Copamex, S.A. de C.V. and Subsidiaries, as of December 31, 2001 and 2000 and the
related consolidated statements of income, changes in stockholders' equity and
changes in financial position for each of the three years in the period ended
December 31, 2001. These consolidated 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 did not audit the
2001 and 2000 financial statements of certain wholly-owned subsidiaries, which
statements reflect total assets constituting 21.5% and 3.64% as of December 31,
2001 and 2000, respectively, and total revenues constituting 24% and 5.71% for
the years then ended. Those statements were audited by other auditors whose
reports have been furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to
data included for those subsidiaries, is based solely on the reports of the
other auditors.
We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally
accepted in Mexico and in the United States of America. 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 and the reports of other auditors provide a reasonable basis for our
opinion.
In our opinion, based on our audits and the reports of other auditors,
the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material
respects, the consolidated financial position of Copamex, S.A. de C.V. and
Subsidiaries as of December 31, 2001 and 2000, and the consolidated results of
their operations and changes in their consolidated financial position for each
of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2001 in conformity with
accounting principles generally accepted in Mexico, which differ in certain
respects from those followed in the United States (see Note 17).
As mentioned in Note 1 to the accompanying financial statements,
effective January 1, 2000 the Company adopted the requirements of Mexican
Accounting Bulletin D-4 "Accounting for Income Tax, Asset Tax and Employee
Profit Sharing," issued by the Mexican Institute of Public Accountants. The
effects are described in Note 13c.
MANCERA, S.C.
A Member Practice of Ernst & Young
Global
/s/ C.P. Hector Hongo Tsuji
Garza Garcia, N.L.
February 8, 2002
Except for Note 7d as to which
the date is March 22, 2002
COPAMEX, S.A. DE C.V. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Balance Sheets
As of December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999
(Thousands of constant Mexican pesos as of December 31, 2001)
2001 2000
Assets -------------- --------------
Current Assets:
Cash and cash equivalents.............................................. Ps. 217,498 Ps. 36,437
Trade receivables, net of an allowance for doubtful accounts of
Ps.44,800 in 2001 and Ps.41,190 in 2000--Note 2..................... 1,457,112 1,752,816
Related parties--Note 9................................................ 173,459 43,284
Other accounts receivable--Note 12..................................... 181,830 242,181
Inventories--Note 3.................................................... 894,654 1,086,954
Prepaid expenses....................................................... 237,256 122,533
-------------- --------------
Total current assets............................................ Ps. 3,161,809 Ps. 3,284,205
Investments in associated companies--Note 4............................ 77,604 -
Related parties--Note 9................................................ - 199,510
Property, plant and equipment, net--Note 5............................. 8,526,295 9,106,113
Goodwill--Note 4....................................................... 115,859 45,825
Intangible assets--Note 6.............................................. 624,140 623,454
-------------- --------------
Total assets.................................................... Ps. 12,505,707 Ps. 13,259,107
============== ==============
Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity
Current liabilities:
Short-term debt--Note 7................................................ Ps. 1,250,534 Ps. 1,505,902
Current portion of long-term debt--Note 7.............................. 842,384 651,104
Suppliers.............................................................. 940,849 849,252
Related parties--Note 9................................................ 7,058 43,441
Other accounts payable--Note 12........................................ 582,378 548,471
Income tax, asset tax and employees' profit sharing.................... 37,290 16,539
-------------- --------------
Total current liabilities....................................... 3,660,493 3,614,709
-------------- --------------
Long-term liabilities: Long-term debt--Note 7......................... 2,706,135 3,255,941
Labor obligations--Note 10............................................. 101,331 87,008
Deferred taxes--Note 13................................................ 1,979,761 2,031,136
-------------- --------------
Total long-term liabilities..................................... 4,787,227 5,374,085
-------------- --------------
Total liabilities............................................... 8,447,720 8,988,794
-------------- --------------
Stockholders' equity--Note 11:
Capital stock.......................................................... 4,819,869 4,826,886
Additional paid-in capital............................................. 6,336 6,336
Retained earnings...................................................... 1,495,653 1,553,092
Deficit from restatement of stockholders' equity....................... (587,018) (385,889)
Cumulative effect of deferred income tax............................... (1,913,019) (1,913,019)
-------------- --------------
Total majority stockholders' equity.................................... 3,821,821 4,087,406
Minority interest...................................................... 236,166 182,907
Total stockholders' equity...................................... 4,057,987 4,270,313
-------------- --------------
Total liabilities and stockholders' equity...................... Ps. 12,505,707 Ps. 13,259,107
============== ==============
See accompanying notes.
COPAMEX, S.A. DE C.V. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Income
As of December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999
(Thousands of constant Mexican pesos as of December 31, 2001)
2001 2000 1999
------------- ------------- -------------
Net sales......................................................... Ps. 7,618,326 Ps. 7,866,937 Ps. 7,067,769
Cost of sales..................................................... (4,897,379) (5,358,755) (4,671,579)
------------- ------------- -------------
Gross margin...................................................... 2,720,947 2,508,182 2,396,190
Selling and administrative expenses............................... (1,799,614) (1,721,755) (1,462,047)
------------- ------------- -------------
Operating income.................................................. 921,333 786,427 934,143
------------- ------------- -------------
Comprehensive financing (cost) income:
Interest income................................................... 38,656 27,285 20,652
Interest expense.................................................. (581,851) (637,228) (607,123)
Exchange gain (loss), net--Note 12................................ 261,056 (93,493) 241,132
Monetary gain..................................................... 179,696 380,372 581,469
------------- ------------- -------------
(102,443) (323,064) 236,130
------------- ------------- -------------
Other (loss) income, net--Note 12................................. (104,144) (70,405) (22,660)
------------- ------------- -------------
Equity in income of associated companies.......................... (25,834) -- --
Asset write down--Note 5.......................................... (600,900) -- --
Income before income and asset taxes, and employee profit sharing. 88,012 392,958 1,147,613
Income tax--Note 13............................................... (83,074) (230,834) (101,822)
Employee profit sharing........................................... (10,003) (6,674) (5,674)
------------- ------------- -------------
(Loss) income before minority interest............................ (5,065) 155,450 1,040,117
Minority interest................................................. (52,374) (37,731) (56,374)
------------- ------------- -------------
Net (loss) income for the year.................................... Ps. (57,439) Ps. 117,719 Ps. 983,743
============= ============= =============
Weighted average common shares outstanding........................ 28,507,926 28,482,921 28,454,200
Net (loss) income per common share (in pesos)..................... Ps. (2.01) Ps. 4.13 Ps. 34.57
============= ============= =============
See accompanying notes.
COPAMEX, S.A. DE C.V. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statement of Change in Stockholders' Equity
As of December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999
(Thousands of constant Mexican pesos as of December 31, 2001)
Surplus
(Deficit)
from Cumulative
restatement effect of
Additional of deferred
Capital paid-in Retained stockholders' income Minority Comprehensive
Stock capital earnings equity taxes Interest Total income (loss)
------------ ---------- ----------- ------------ ------------ ----------- ------------ -------------
Balances at December 31, 1998. Ps.4,819,747 Ps. - Ps. 637,505 Ps. 16,524 Ps. - Ps. 147,780 Ps.5,621,556
Cash dividends paid........... (185,875) (185,875)
Minority interest............. 33,097 33,097 Ps.(302,599)
Net income for the year....... 983,743 983,743 983,743
Deficit from holding
nonmonetary assets......... (162,721) (162,721) (162,721)
------------ --------- ------------ ------------ ------------- ---------- ------------ -----------
Balances at December 31, 1999. 4,819,747 - 1,435,373 (146,197) 180,877 6,289,800 Ps. 518,423
Cumulative effect of
deferred taxes............. (1,913,019) (22,699) (1,935,718)
Increase in capital stock..... 7,139 6,336 13,475
Minority interest............. 24,729 24,729 Ps. 46,075
Net income for the year....... 117,719 117,719 117,719
Deficit from holding
nonmonetary assets (net
of deferred taxes)......... (239,692) (239,692) (239,692)
------------ --------- ------------ ------------ ------------- ---------- ------------ -----------
Balances at December 31, 2000. 4,826,886 6,336 1,553,092 (385,889) (1,913,019) 182,907 4,270,313 Ps. (75,898)
Effect of spin-off............ (7,017) (7,017)
Minority interest............. 53,259 53,259 Ps. 39,281
Net loss for the year......... (57,439) (57,439) (57,439)
Deficit from holding
nonmonetary assets (net
of deferred taxes)......... (201,129) (201,129) (201,129)
------------ --------- ------------ ------------ ------------- ---------- ------------ -----------
Balances at December 31, 2001. Ps.4,819,869 Ps. 6,336 Ps.1,495,653 Ps. (587,018)Ps.(1,913,019) Ps.236,166 Ps.4,057,987 Ps.(219,287)
============ ========= ============ ============ ============= ========== ============ ===========
See accompanying notes.
COPAMEX, S.A. DE C.V. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Financial Position
For the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999
(Thousands of constant Mexican pesos as of December 31, 2001)
2001 2000 1999
Operating activities: ----------- ----------- ------------
(Loss) income before minority interest............................... Ps. (5,065) Ps. 155,450 Ps.1,040,117
Items not requiring the use of resources:
Allowance for doubtful accounts................................. 5,346 5,206 4,867
Depreciation.................................................... 362,710 428,841 420,256
Amortization.................................................... 45,177 46,365 45,731
Asset write down................................................ 507,000 -- --
Equity in income of associated companies........................ 25,834 -- --
Provision for labor obligations................................. 14,132 12,688 10,469
Deferred income tax............................................. 56,926 208,432 --
----------- ----------- -----------
1,012,060 856,982 1,521,440
Trade receivables............................................... 290,357 (190,055) (186,883)
Inventories..................................................... (136,640) (83,228) (203,400)
Related parties................................................. (57,855) (1,698) (1,356)
Prepaid expenses................................................ (114,723) (62,390) 11,329
Suppliers....................................................... 91,597 72,009 77,669
Other accounts receivable and payable, net...................... 94,450 87,118 95,274
Income tax, asset tax and employee profit sharing............... 20,751 (54,066) 59,278
----------- ----------- -----------
Resources provided by operating activities........................... 1,199,997 624,672 1,376,063
----------- ----------- -----------
Financing activities:
Short-term bank loans........................................... (64,088) (468,861) (163,226)
Bonds........................................................... (155,598) (139,247) (81,553)
Proceeds from bank borrowings and issuance of long-term debt.... 573,000 1,304,242 22,148
Payments of long-term debt...................................... (967,208) (720,665) (712,268)
Related parties................................................. 90,807 (198,667) --
Cash dividends paid............................................. -- -- (185,875)
Effect of spin-off.............................................. (7,017) -- --
Minority interest............................................... 885 (13,002) (23,279)
----------- ----------- -----------
Resources (used in) provided by financing activities................. (529,219) (236,200) (1,144,053)
----------- ----------- -----------
Investing activities:
Property, plant and equipment, net.............................. (294,205) (300,845) (358,639)
Intangible assets............................................... (42,601) (85,800) (18,909)
Goodwill........................................................ (75,307) (8,670)
Other investments............................................... (77,604) (797) 2,783
----------- ----------- -----------
Resources used in investing activities............................... (489,717) (396,112) (374,765)
----------- ----------- -----------
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents..................... 181,061 (7,640) (142,755)
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of year................... 36,437 44,077 186,832
----------- ----------- -----------
=========== =========== ===========
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of year......................... Ps. 217,498 Ps. 36,437 Ps. 44,077
=========== =========== ===========
See accompanying notes.
COPAMEX, S.A. DE C.V. AND SUBSIDIARIES
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)
As of December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999
(Thousands of constant Mexican pesos as of December 31, 2001)
1. Description of the business and significant accounting policies
I. Description of business
Copamex, S.A. de C.V. (the Company) is a Mexican corporation that holds the
shares of the companies listed below.
The main activities of these companies are concentrated in three
groups: 1) the consumer products group, which includes bathroom and facial
tissue, paper towels, paper napkins, adult incontinence products, feminine care
products, away-from-home products, notebooks and baby diapers, 2) the packaging
products group which includes kraft paper, multi-wall paper bags and corrugated
containers, and 3) the printing and writing products group which includes
cut-sized paper, bond paper and specialty papers. Some subsidiaries are
dedicated to property leasing.
II. Significant accounting policies
Use of estimates
In preparing financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles, management is required to make estimates and assumptions
that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements. Actual results
could differ from those estimates.
Principles of consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include those of Copamex, S.A. de
C.V. and the subsidiaries in which they hold the majority of the capital stock,
as follows:
% ownership
----------------------
2001 2000
-------- --------
Copamex Productos al Consumidor, S.A. de C.V................. 100.00% 100.00%
Copamex Comercial, S.A. de C.V............................... 100.00% 100.00%
Industrial Papelera Mexicana, S.A. de C.V.................... 100.00% 100.00%
Papeles Higienicos del Centro, S.A. de C.V................... 100.00% 100.00%
Papeles Higienicos de Mexico, S.A. de C.V.................... 100.00% 100.00%
Inpamex Planta Huehuetoca, S.A. de C.V....................... 100.00% 100.00%
Servicios Comerciales Cocosa, S.A. de C.V.................... 99.96% 99.96%
Sancela, S.A. de C.V......................................... 51.00% 51.00%
Comercializadora Sancela, S.A. de C.V........................ 51.00% 51.00%
Sancela de Costa Rica, S.A................................... 51.00% 51.00%
Sanco Interaccion Comercial, S.A.(1)......................... 51.00% --
Copamex Empaque, S.A. de C.V................................. 100.00% 100.00%
Papelera de Chihuahua, S.A. de C.V........................... 100.00% 100.00%
Maquinaria y Equipo Pachisa, S.A. de C.V..................... 100.00% 100.00%
Cia. Papelera Maldonado, S.A. de C.V......................... 100.00% 100.00%
Maquinaria y Equipo Papelera, S.A. de C.V.................... 99.81% 99.81%
Bolsas y Articulos de Papel, S.A. de C.V..................... 100.00% 100.00%
Cajas y Empaques Industriales, S.A. de C.V.(2)............... -- 100.00%
Copamex Corrugados, S.A. de C.V.(3) ......................... 90.00% --
Sacos y Envases Industriales, S.A. de C.V.................... 100.00% 100.00%
Bolsas de Papel Guadalajara, S.A. de C.V..................... 100.00% 100.00%
Maquinaria y Equipo Seisa, S.A. de C.V....................... 100.00% 100.00%
Master Fibers Inc............................................ 100.00% 100.00%
Comercial Recicladora, S.A. de C.V........................... 100.00% 100.00%
Copamex Papeles para Escritura e Impresion, S.A. de C.V...... 100.00% 100.00%
Comercializadora Copamex, S.A. de C.V........................ 100.00% 100.00%
Pondercel, S.A. de C.V....................................... 100.00% 100.00%
Plantaciones Industriales Mexicanas, S.A. de C.V............. 100.00% 100.00%
Taloquimia, S.A. de C.V...................................... 51.00% 51.00%
Recicladora de Papel y Derivados, S.A. de C.V.(3) ........... 100.00% --
Industrias Unidas de Centroamerica, S.A...................... 70.00% 70.00%
Grupo Copamex de Centroamerica, S.A.......................... 100.00% 100.00%
Corporativo Copamex, S.A. de C.V............................. 100.00% 100.00%
Desarrollo Inmobiliario del Poniente, S.A. de C.V............ 100.00% 100.00%
Compania Regiomontana de Inversiones, S.A. de C.V.(4) ....... -- 99.98%
Bolsas Maldonado, S.A. de C.V................................ 99.60% 99.60%
Desarrollo Inmobiliario COINSA, S.A. de C.V.................. 100.00% 100.00%
- ------------------
(1) Company incorporated for the trade of goods (consumer division) in Costa
Rica.
(2) Company merged with Copamex Corrugados, S.A. de C.V.
(3) Companies incorporated through the spin-off of Pondercel, effective 2001.
(4) Company merged with Desarrollo Inmobiliario del Poniente, S.A. de C.V.
All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated for
consolidation purposes.
Recognition of the effects of inflation
The Company and its subsidiaries recognize the effects of inflation on
financial information as required by Mexican Accounting Bulletin B-10
("Recognition of the Effects of Inflation on Financial Information"), as
amended. Consequently, the amounts presented in the accompanying financial
statements and in these notes are expressed in thousands of Mexican pesos with
purchasing power as of December 31, 2001.
Surplus (deficit) from restatement of stockholders' equity
Surplus (deficit) from restatement of stockholders' equity includes: i)
the accumulated monetary position gain determined at the time the provisions of
Bulletin B-10 were first applied; and ii) the result from holding non-monetary
assets, which represents the net difference between restatement by the
specific-cost method, compared to restatement based on the Mexican National
Consumer Price Index (NCPI).
Comprehensive financing (cost) income
The comprehensive financing (cost) income consists of net interest
expense, foreign exchange gains and losses, and the monetary gain.
Monetary gain
This represents the result of holding monetary assets and liabilities,
the real value of which declines in inflationary periods while the face value
remains constant.
The monetary position result is calculated on net monthly monetary
positions, using factors derived from the NCPI.
Recognition of revenues
Revenue is recognized as earned when all of the following criteria are
met:
- Persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists.
- Shipment or delivery has occurred.
- The seller's price to the buyer is fixed or determinable, and
- Collectibility is reasonably assured.
Cash and cash equivalents
All highly liquid investments purchased with a maturity of three months
or less when acquired are considered as cash equivalents and are carried at fair
market value. Cash are primarily bank deposits.
Inventories and cost of sales
Inventories and cost of sales are presented at replacement cost, which
is not in excess of realizable value, using the direct costing method.
Investments in associated companies
Investments in associated companies are those in which the Company owns
more than 10% of the common outstanding shares. These investments are valued
using the equity method, whereby the Company recognizes its equity interest in
the results of operation of the associated companies in the year corresponding
to the Company's financial statements.
Goodwill
This represents the difference between the acquisition cost and the
fair value of the acquired net assets at the time of acquisition of the shares.
Such excess is being amortized using the straight-line method over a period of
twenty years from the date of acquisition.
Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment are initially recorded at acquisition
cost. Through December 31, 1996, property, plant and equipment were restated
based on appraisals obtained from an independent appraiser registered with
National Banking and Securities Commission. Since the fifth amendment (revised)
to Bulletin B-10 issued by the Mexican Institute of Public Accounts, effective
January 1st, 1997, eliminated the use of appraisals to restate property, plant
and equipment, this caption has been restated by applying factors derived from
the NCPI.
Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method based on the
restated value of the assets and applying rates in accordance with the estimated
useful lives of the assets.
Intangible assets
Intangible assets are initially recorded at acquisition cost and then
restated using factors derived from the NCPI.
These items are amortized using the straight-line method based on the
restated value of the assets over a period of 3 to 20 years.
Transactions in foreign currencies
Transactions in foreign currencies are recorded at the prevailing
exchange rate at the time of the related transactions. Foreign currency
denominated assets and liabilities are translated to pesos at the prevailing
exchange rate at the balance sheet date. Exchange gains and losses are taken to
income of the period as part of the comprehensive financing income (cost) (See
Note 8).
Labor obligations
Mexican Federal Labor Law establishes the obligation to make certain
payments to personnel who leave the Company's under certain circumstances. The
Company follows the policy of recording severance payments in the results of the
year in which they are made. Pension fund expenses and seniority premiums are
recognized periodically on the basis of the calculations of independent
actuaries using the projected unit credit method and financial hypotheses net of
inflation, as required by Mexican Accounting Principles Bulletin D-3.
Comprehensive (loss) income
Effective January 1, 2001, Bulletin B-4 "Comprehensive Income" came
into force. The application of Bulletin B-4 has no effect on the net (loss)
income for the year or on stockholders' equity. Comprehensive income is the net
loss or income for the period, plus, if applicable, those items whose effect is
reflected directly on stockholders' equity and that do not constitute
contributions, reductions or distribution of capital. The financial statements
at December 31, 2000 and 1999 have been restated as a result of the application
of this Bulletin.
Earnings per share
Earnings per share are computed by dividing net income for the year by
the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period.
Advertising
The Company expenses advertising costs as they are incurred. Total
advertising expense charged to operations was approximately Ps.387,337,
Ps.310,664 and Ps.241,831 in December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999, respectively.
Financial instruments
Effective January 1, 2001, the Company adopted the new Bulletin C-2
"Financial Instruments," issued by the Mexican Institute of Public Accountants.
This Bulletin establishes general regulations to issuers and investors of
financial instruments for the valuation, presentation and disclosure of
financial information. In addition, Bulletin C-2 establishes regulation and
conditions to offset financial resource assets and liabilities. Likewise, it
establishes regulations to assess these instruments at fair value, except for
those that have been classified as payable upon maturity, which should be valued
at acquisition cost. The application of Bulletin C-2 had no effect on the
financial statements, as the Company has no derivative or hedged financial
instruments.
Income tax, asset tax and employees' profit sharing
Effective January 1, 2000, the Company adopted the requirements of
Bulletin D-4 "Accounting Treatment for Income Tax, Asset Tax and Employees'
Profit Sharing" issued by the Mexican Institute of Public Accountants. This
Bulletin requires the recognition of deferred taxes on all the temporary
differences in balance sheet accounts for financial and tax reporting purposes,
using the enacted income tax rate at the date of issuance of the financial
statements. Through December 31, 1999, deferred taxes were recognized only for
temporary differences that were considered to be non-recurring and that had a
known turnaround time.
In accordance with this Bulletin, the cumulative effect of deferred
taxes at the beginning of 2000 was applied to stockholders' equity without
restructuring the financial statements of prior years.
Income tax incurred for the year is charged to results and represents a
liability due and payable within a maximum term of one year, except for the
deferred portion of income tax, due to not declaring dividends in the following
year (See Note 13c).
The Company evaluates periodically the recoverability of its deferred
tax asset, and if necessary, establishes and adjusts the corresponding
allowance.
In conformity with the Bulletin, deferred employee profit sharing is
recognized only on temporary differences determined in the current year
reconciliation between the net income for financial and for employee profit
sharing purposes, provided there is no indication that the related liabilities
or assets will not be realized in the future.
Current year employee profit sharing is charged to results and
represents the liability due and payable within a maximum term of one year.
In accordance with Bulletin D-4, asset tax is offset against deferred
income tax, with due evaluation of recoverability.
Concentrations of credit risk
Concentrations of credit risk with respect to trade accounts receivable
are limited due to the large number of entities comprising the Company's
customer base.
Reclassifications
Certain amounts shown in the 2000 and 1999 consolidated financial
statements have been reclassified for uniformity of presentation with 2001.
2. Trade receivables
Trade accounts correspond to accounts receivable from sales to third
parties.
During the year ended December 31, 2001 and 2000, the Company sold
certain receivables through non-recourse factoring agreements in the amount of
Ps.370,394 and Ps.140,894, respectively. The loss on sales of these receivables
in the amount of Ps.11,310 and Ps.3,805 in 2001 and 2000, respectively, are
included in comprehensive financing (cost) income of those years.
3. Inventories
At December 31, 2001 and 2000, inventories are comprised of the
following:
2001 2000
------------ ------------
Raw materials............................. Ps. 351,088 Ps. 402,749
Finished goods............................ 232,100 330,394
Work in process........................... 45,025 58,887
Materials and spare parts................. 169,373 214,902
Inventory in transit...................... 85,830 71,162
Advances to suppliers..................... 11,238 8,860
------------ ------------
Ps. 894,654 Ps.1,086,954
============ ============
4. Investments in associated companies
a) At December 31, 2001, the investments in associated companies are
comprised of the following:
%
2001 ownership
------------ -----------
Corrugado y Fibra, S.A. de C.V............ Ps. 6,147 45%
Copamex Higiene Infantil, S.A. de C.V..... 71,457 45%
------------
Ps. 77,604
============
The goodwill resulting from the investment in Corrugado y Fibra, S.A.
(acquired on December 2001) and Copamex Higiene Infantil, S.A. de C.V. (acquired
on October 2001) amounted to Ps.17,647 and Ps.57,660, respectively.
b) An analysis of goodwill at December 31, 2001 and 2000 is as
follows:
2001 2000
------------ ------------
Goodwill.................................. Ps. 130,947 Ps. 57,651
Accumulated amortization.................. (15,088) (11,826)
------------ ------------
Goodwill net.............................. Ps. 115,859 Ps. 45,825
============ ============
5. Property, plant and equipment
a) At December 31, 2001 and 2000, property, plant and equipment consist
of the following:
2001 2000
------------ ------------
Land...................................... Ps. 452,454 Ps. 468,164
Buildings................................. 1,639,387 1,583,573
Machinery and Equipment................... 12,642,579 13,232,841
Other equipment........................... 425,407 493,314
Advances to suppliers..................... 27,276 38,550
Construction in progress.................. 100,488 128,354
------------ ------------
15,287,591 15,944,796
Accumulated depreciation.................. (6,995,296) (6,838,683)
------------ ------------
8,292,295 9,106,113
Idle machinery............................ 234,000 --
------------ ------------
Ps.8,526,295 Ps.9,106,113
============ ============
Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and
1999 was Ps.362,710, Ps.428,841 and Ps.420,256, respectively.
b) At December 31, 2001 and 2000, the remaining useful lives of assets
were:
2001 2000
------------ ------------
Buildings................................. 17.1 to 43.5 16.9 to 43.8
Machinery and equipment................... 13.5 to 31.6 14.0 to 32.7
Other equipment........................... 3.6 to 7.9 2.6 to 8.8
c) In February 2001, the Company decided to temporarily close
Pondercel's pulp mill and from said month` onwards, all of its pulp requirements
have been provided by third parties. The decision was intended to reduce costs
due to the market conditions of pulp, as its prices decreased while the
Company's production costs increased.
The Company reconsidered the above decision and in October 26, 2001,
the Company decided to close the operations in such plant, which resulted in the
following effects: machinery and equipment, including the spare-parts warehouse
was stated at net realizable value appraised by an independent expert registered
with the National Banking and Securities Commission. Accordingly, the book value
of Ps.741,000 was written down to Ps.234,000, thus representing a write-off of
Ps.507,000. In addition, expenses amounting to Ps.93,900 were incurred due to
the close of the plant.
The mentioned adjustments amounted to Ps.600,900 and are shown in the
statement of income as an asset write-down; the write down, net of income tax,
was Ps.390,600.
6. Intangible assets
At December 31, 2001 and 2000, intangible assets consist of the
following:
2001 2000
----------- -----------
Brand names............................... Ps. 490,818 Ps. 490,818
Technology and software................... 100,052 100,052
Debt issuance costs....................... 116,550 96,135
Integral system........................... 77,822 57,080
Start-up expenses......................... 17,512 17,512
Other..................................... 13,877 12,433
----------- -----------
816,631 774,030
Accumulated amortization.................. (192,491) (150,576)
----------- -----------
Ps. 624,140 Ps. 623,454
=========== ===========
Amortization expense for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2000 and
1999 was Ps.41,915, Ps.42,950, and Ps.41,158, respectively.
7. Short-term and long-term debt
a) Short term debt
2001 2000
Denominated in Mexican Pesos........... Ps. 20,000 Ps. 7,308
Denominated in U.S. dollars(1)......... 1,230,534 1,498,594
------------- -------------
Total.................................. Ps. 1,250,534 Ps. 1,505,902
============= =============
Interest rates......................... 4.15% 8.58%
to 9.25% to 10.79%
Weighted average of applicable interest
rates at December 31................... 6.94% 9.50%
- ----------
(1) Includes the issuance of Euro Commercial Paper in the amount of US$57.8
million in 2001, with a weighted average interest of 8.55%.
b) The Company maintains short-term credit lines with several banks. At
December 31, 2001 unused lines of credit totaled Ps.399,352 (Ps.641,486 in
2000).
In addition, the Company has a line of credit for the issuance of Euro
Commercial Paper in the amount of US$150 million, with short-term maturities. At
December 31, 2001, the available balance was US$92.2 million.
During December 2001, the Company was authorized to issue Exchange
Certificates ("Certificados Bursatiles") in the amount of Ps.1 billion, of which
Ps.700 million was available at December 31, 2001.
c) An analysis of long-term debt as of December 31, 2001 and 2000 is as
follows:
December 31, 2001
------------------------------
Type of loan Interest rate Amount
- ------------ --------------- ------------
Bonds(1)........................................ 11.37% Ps.1,652.986
Exchange certificate(2)......................... TIIE plus 1.75% 300,000
Syndicated bank loan(3)......................... Libor plus 4.00% 825,255
Unsecured bank loans............................ 9.00% 458,475
Unsecured bank loans............................ Libor plus 1.81% 273,004
Secured and unsecured bank loans................ 7.54%(4) 38,799
------------
3,548,519
Current portion of long-term debt............... (842,384)
Ps. 2,706,135
=============
December 31, 2001
------------------------------
Type of loan Interest rate Amount
- ------------ --------------- ------------
Bonds (1)....................................... 11.37% Ps. 1,808,583
Syndicated bank loan(3)......................... Libor plus 4%
1,304,242
Unsecured bank loans............................Libor plus 1.7265
200,653
Unsecured bank loan............................. 9.00% 501,632
Secured and unsecured bank loans................ 8.65%(4) 91,935
----------------- ------------
3,907,045
Current portion of long-term debt............... (651,104)
Ps.3,255,941
============
- ----------------
(1) In April 1997, Copamex, S.A. de C.V. made a private placement of notes
totaling US$200 million, which mature in 2004. These bonds were converted
into Yankee Bonds in September 1997. During 1998, Copamex, S.A. de C.V.
repurchased bonds amounting to US$19.7 million in the secondary market,
earning a profit of US$1.38 million. At December 31, 2001, the related
balance amounted to US$180.3 million. At December 31, 2001, the fair market
value of the bonds was US$173.1 million.
(2) In December 2001, exchange certificates were issued in the amount of Ps.300
million, at a term of three years and maturing in December 2004. The related
resources were applied to acquire US$28 million, which were deposited in an
irrevocable trust fund established with Banco Nacional de Mexico, S.A. (No.
111133-5), to be further applied to the payment of the issuance of Euro
Commercial Paper due in January 2002.
(3) Syndicated loan granted to Copamex, S.A. de C.V. by 8 banks, with Citibank,
N.A. as the agent. The total amount of the loan was US$130 million with
principal payments made quarterly with final payment due in March 2004.
(4) Corresponding to the weighted average of the applicable nominal interest
rates as of December 31 of each year.
d) The loan agreements of the long-term loans contain certain covenants
requiring the borrower to maintain specific financial ratios. At December 31,
2001, Copamex and some of its subsidiaries failed to comply with some covenants;
the financial ratios breached with one of the banks, which maturity is September
30, 2002, were the liquidity and debt service ratios; the Company obtained the
waiver for the said deficiencies through March 31, 2002, but cured these
violations by repayment of such loans on March 22, 2002.
e) Maturities of long-term debt as of December 31, 2001 is as follows:
2001
----------------
2003........................... Ps. 377,687
2004........................... 2,322,923
2005........................... 5,525
----------------
Ps. 2,706,135
================
8. Foreign currency position
a) At December 31, 2001 and 2000, foreign currency denominated assets
and liabilities were as follows:
Thousands of US Dollars
-----------------------------
2001 2000
------------ ------------
Current assets.................................. US$ 5,929 US$ 7,915
Short-term liabilities.......................... (283,139) (277,428)
Long-term liability............................. (262,406) (324,535)
------------ ------------
Short position, net............................. US$ (539,616) US$ (594,048)
============ ============
Inventories and property, plant and equipment
of foreign origin............................... US$ 509,051 US$ 506,004
============ ============
Inventories and property, plant and equipment are those manufactured
outside Mexico and are shown at their U.S. dollar cost.
At December 31, 2001 and 2000 the exchange rates were Ps.9.1695 and
Ps.9.6098 to the U.S. dollar, respectively. At February 8, 2002 the exchange
rate was Ps.9.1381 to the U.S. dollar.
b) An analysis of transactions in foreign currency during 2001, 2000
and 1999 is as follows:
Thousands of US dollars
--------------------------------------------
2001 2000 1999
------------ ------------ ------------
Sales..................... 28,014 32,669 26,532
Purchases................. 177,788 161,102 125,344
Thousands of Mexican pesos
--------------------------------------------
2001 2000 1999
------------ ------------ ------------
Sales..................... Ps. 260,877 Ps. 321,523 Ps. 289,225
Purchases................. 1,655,940 1,591,193 1,357,715
9. Related parties
a) An analysis of balances with related parties as of December 31, 2001
and 2000 is shown below:
2001 2000
------------- -----------
Accounts receivable:
Current:
Dinamica Industrial Empresarial, S.A. de C.V.(1)......... Ps. 108,703 Ps. --
Corrugado y Fibra, S.A. de C.V.(2)....................... 13,048 43,284
Copamex Higiene Infantil, S.A. de C.V.(3)................ 51,708 --
------------ -----------
Ps. 173,459 Ps. 43,284
============ ===========
Long-term:
Dinamina Industrial Empresarial, S.A. de C.V.(1)......... Ps. -- Ps.199,510
============ ==========
Accounts payable:
Grupo Empresarial Sierra Madre, S.A. de C.V.............. Ps. 7,058 Ps --
Copamex Higiene Infantil, S.A. de C.V.(3)................ -- 43,049
Otros.................................................... -- 392
------------ -----------
Ps. 7,058 Ps. 43,441
============ ===========
All of the Companies above are considered as affiliates because the
Company's principal owners are directly or indirectly shareholders of these
related parties. Dinamica Industrial Empresarial holds a 40% interest in the
equity of the Company. In addition, the Company holds 45% of the shares of
Copamex Higiene Infantil, S.A. de C.V. and of Corrugado y Fibra, S.A. de C.V.
- --------------
(1) During 2000 the Company made loans to Dinamica Industrial Empresarial, S.A.
de C.V. (Dinamica). These loans bear interest at the Mexican Interbanking
Balance Rate plus 2.25 points (21% at December 31, 2000), which spread may
be changed according to market conditions; the interest is payable monthly.
In April 2001, Dinamica Industrial Empresarial, S.A. de C.V. repaid said
debt in advance. The current accounts receivable bear interest at a rate
equivalent to the weighted average of the Company's financing cost plus 0.25
points. At December 31, 2001, the rate was of 13.30%.
(2) During 2001 and 2000, the Company sold paper for the production of
corrugated containers to Corrugado y Fibra, S.A. de C.V., a company
controlled by Dinamica.
(3) In July 2000, Copamex started the sale and distribution of baby diapers
manufactured by Copamex Higiene Infantil, S.A. de C.V., a company controlled
by Dinamica.
All transactions with related parties are made on terms similar and not
less favorable than those that would be obtained if these transactions were made
with unrelated parties.
b) A summary of the related party transactions for the years ended
December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999, is provided below:
2001 2000 1999
---------- ---------- ----------
Income from administrative services........ Ps. 16,296 Ps. 18,262 Ps. 7,296
Interest income............................ 24,885 21,087 2,820
Rental income.............................. 560 636 646
Interest expense........................... 368 1,277 --
Rent expense............................... 1,858 1,804 --
Purchase................................... 149,255 38,075 --
Purchase of shares......................... 183,486 -- --
Administrative services, which includes legal services, systems and tax
related services, are rendered by the Company to Dinamica Industrial
Empresarial, S.A. de C.V., Corrugado y Fibra, S.A. de C.V. and Copamex Higiene
Infantil, S.A. de C.V.
10. Labor obligations
The Company's unfunded pensions plan provides a pension that is
complementary to the Social Security pension and consists of a monthly payment
that is guaranteed for 120 months. Payments are based on the monthly average
ordinary salary received by the participant during the last 12 months prior to
retirement. The participant must be at least 65 years old with at least 10 years
of service with the Company in order to receive pension payments.
The net consolidated expense and the assumptions with respect to
retirement pension and seniority premium plans at December 31, 2001 and 2000 are
as follows:
2001
---------------------------------------
Seniority
premiums Pensions Total
-------- -------- -----
Net period cost:
Labor cost................................. Ps. 2,284 Ps. 5,141 Ps. 7,425
Financial cost............................. 1,130 3,816 4,946
Amortization............................... 802 959 1,761
---------- ---------- ----------
4,216 9,916 14,132
---------- ---------- ----------
Accumulated benefit obligation............. 28,601 72,771 101,372
Projected benefit obligation............... 29,537 96,976 126,513
Transition liability....................... 5,066 8,286 13,352
Net projected liability.................... 22,347 71,527 93,874
Additional liability....................... 6,694 7,926 14,620
Discount rate.............................. 4.5% 4.5%
Amortization period........................ 10 years 21 years
to 12 years to 28 years
2000
---------------------------------------
Seniority
premiums Pensions Total
-------- -------- -----
Net period cost:
Labor cost................................. Ps. 1,950 Ps. 5,432 Ps. 7,382
Financial cost............................. 1,010 3,031 4,041
Amortization............................... 751 514 1,265
---------- ---------- ----------
3,711 8,977 12,688
---------- ---------- ----------
Accumulated benefit obligation............. 23,714 57,902 81,616
Projected benefit obligation............... 26,216 78,310 104,526
Transition liability....................... 5,312 7,294 12,606
Net projected liability.................... 18,852 62,289 81,141
Additional liability....................... 6,086 2,363 8,449
Discount rate.............................. 4.5% 4.5%
Amortization period........................ 10 years 21 years
to 13 years to 28 years
1999
---------------------------------------
Seniority
premiums Pensions Total
-------- -------- -----
Net period cost:
Labor cost................................. Ps. 1,628 Ps. 4,553 Ps. 6,181
Financial cost............................. 856 2,365 3,221
Amortization............................... 658 410 1,068
---------- ---------- ----------
3,142 7,328 10,470
---------- ---------- ----------
Accumulated benefit obligation............. 20,139 51,325 71,464
Projected benefit obligation............... 22,142 61,160 83,302
Transition liability....................... 5,967 7,665 13,632
Net projected liability.................... 16,369 52,627 68,996
Additional liability....................... 4,172 2,318 6,490
Discount rate.............................. 4.5% 4.5%
Amortization period........................ 10 years 21 years
to 12 years to 28 years
11. Stockholders' equity
a) The capital stock is variable, with a fixed minimum of Ps.600. There
is no limit on the amount of variable capital.
At an extraordinary General Shareholders' meeting held on September 17,
2001, the shareholders approved a spin-off of a certain assets and capital stock
from Copamex, S.A. de C.V. to Corporacion Industrial Corporativa, S.A. de C.V.,
effective October 1, 2001, which is in accordance with Mexican Corporations Act.
At an extraordinary General Shareholders' meeting held on July 25,
2000, the shareholders agreed to increase the Company's variable capital by
Ps.6,552 (Ps.7,139 in constant Mexican pesos at December 31, 2001).
At December 31, 2001 and 2000, capital stock consists of 28,472,926 and
28,519,720 common registered shares, respectively, with a par value of one
hundred pesos each.
At December 31, 2001 and 2000, the capital stock presented in the
consolidated balance sheet is as follows:
2001 2000
-------------- --------------
Fixed capital stock.............................. Ps. 600 Ps. 600
Variable capital stock........................... 2,846,693 2,851,372
-------------- --------------
2,847,293 2,851,972
Restatement...................................... 1,972,576 1,974,914
-------------- --------------
Total capital stock.............................. Ps. 4,819,869 Ps. 4,826,886
============== ==============
b) The investment of minority stockholders at December 31, 2001 and
2000 is as follows:
2001 2000
-------------- --------------
Capital stock.................................... Ps. 160,519 Ps. 135,126
Retained earnings................................ 379,181 352,865
Deficit on restatement of stockholders' equity... (330,065) (320,116)
Minority income.................................. 52,374 37,731
Cumulative effect of deferred taxes.............. (25,843) (22,699)
-------------- --------------
Ps. 236,166 Ps. 182,907
============== ==============
The changes to the capital stock and retained earnings of minority
stockholders of Copamex, S.A. de C.V. and Subsidiaries at December 31, 2001 and
2000, are as follows:
2001
--------------------------------
Capital Retained
stock earnings
-------------- --------------
Minority interest as of December 31, 2000........ Ps. 135,126 Ps. 352,865
Effect of restructuring ownership................ 25,182 (2,236)
Cash dividends paid.............................. -- (9,178)
Increase in common stock of subsidiaries......... 211 --
Capitalization of retained earnings.............. -- 37,730
-------------- --------------
Minority interest as of December 31, 2001........ Ps. 160,519 Ps. 379,181
============== ==============
2000
--------------------------------
Capital Retained
stock earnings
-------------- --------------
Minority interest as of December 31, 1999........ Ps. 144,146 Ps. 306,245
Increase in capital stock of subsidiaries........ 2,582 425
Effect of restructuring ownership................ (11,602) (253)
Cash dividends paid.............................. -- (9,926)
Capitalization of retained earnings.............. -- 56,374
-------------- --------------
Minority interest as of December 31, 2000........ Ps. 135,126 Ps. 352,865
============== ==============
c) In 2001 and 2000, the corporate income tax rate was 35%, with the
option during said years of deferring a portion, so that the tax payable for the
year represents 30% of taxable income. The earnings on which there is a deferral
of taxes must be controlled in the "net reinvested tax profit account"
(CUFINRE), to identify the earnings on which the taxpayer has opted to defer
payment of corporate income tax. From January 1, 2002, onwards, the option to
defer this tax is no longer in effect.
The Company opted for the above-mentioned tax deferral, consequently,
earnings are initially distributed from the CUFINRE account, and any excess is
distributed from the "net tax profit" account (CUFIN), so as to pay the 5%
deferred tax.
Any distribution of earnings in excess of the above-mentioned account
balances will be subject to payment of 35% corporate income tax.
From January 1, 1999 through December 31, 2001, cash dividends obtained
by individuals or residents abroad from corporate entities in Mexico were
subject to a 5% withholding tax on the amount of the dividend multiplied by
1.5385 (1.515 for dividends paid from the determined balance of the CUFIN
account at December 31, 1998).
12. Other information
An analysis of certain accounts presented in the consolidated financial
statements at December 31, 2001 and 2000 is as follows:
2001 2000
----------- -----------
Other accounts receivable:
Sundry debtors............................ Ps. 50,630 Ps. 47,220
Tax recoverable........................... 95,415 159,200
Other..................................... 35,785 35,761
----------- -----------
Ps. 181,830 Ps. 242,181
=========== ===========
Other accounts payable:
Interest payable.......................... Ps. 49,452 Ps. 77,824
Sundry creditors.......................... 388,650 307,444
Taxes payable............................. 56,786 80,265
Advances from customers................... 31,514 61,877
Sundry provisions......................... 55,976 21,061
----------- -----------
Ps. 582,378 Ps. 548,471
=========== ===========
2001 2000 1999
----------- ----------- -----------
Exchange gain (loss), net:
Exchange loss............................. Ps.(335,741) Ps.(769,863) Ps.(632,905)
Exchange gain............................. 596,797 676,370 874,037
----------- ----------- -----------
Ps. 261,056 Ps. (93,493) Ps. 241,132
=========== =========== ===========
Other (loss) income, net:
(Loss) gain on sale of fixed assets and
other materials........................... Ps. (14,403) Ps. 11,999 Ps. 9,522
Amortization of excess of shares of
Subsidiaries over book value.............. (3,262) (3,415) (3,309)
Amortization of intangible assets......... (41,915) (42,950) (28,349)
Other..................................... (44,564) (36,039) (10,524)
----------- ----------- -----------
Ps.(104,144) Ps. (70,405) Ps. (22,660)
=========== =========== ===========
13. Taxes
a) Income and asset tax
Copamex, S.A. de C.V. and each one of its subsidiaries are subject to
pay income tax or asset tax; whichever is greater for the year. Asset taxis
levied at a rate of 1.8% of the net average value of most assets (at restated
values), net of certain liabilities.
The income tax of Copamex, S.A. de C.V. and Subsidiaries is determined
on a consolidated basis. In accordance with the Mexican Income Tax Law, the tax
consolidation involves offsetting the adjusted tax results of the companies of
the Group. The offsetting is carried out based on the holding company's equity
multiplied by 60%, with regard to the subsidiaries, and 100% to the holding
Company.
b) Net operating losses carried forward and recoverable asset tax
At December 31, 2001, the consolidated losses for income tax purposes
of Copamex, S.A. de C.V. and Subsidiaries that may be carried forward, and
applied against future taxable earnings, which are restated using the NCPI
through the year that may be applied, are as follows:
Year in which right to
Year of loss Amount of Loss carry-forward expires
------------ -------------- ----------------------
1998 Ps.275,543 2008
At December 31, 2001 the recoverable asset tax is as follows:
Year of Year of
tax payment expiration Restated amounts
------------ -------------- ----------------------
1999 2009 Ps. 3,814
2000 2010 18,670
----------
2001 2011 71,048
----------
Ps. 93,532
==========
c) Deferred income tax
An analysis of income tax charged to net income for the years ended
December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999 is as follows:
2001 2000 1999
----------- ----------- ----------
Current income tax........... Ps. 26,148 Ps. 22,402 Ps.101,822
Deferred income tax.......... 56,926 208,432 --
----------- ----------- ----------
Ps. 83,074 Ps. 230,834 Ps.101,822
=========== =========== ==========
Since current tax legislation partially recognized the effects of
inflation on certain items that give rise to deferred taxes, the current year
net monetary effect on such items has been reclassified in the income statement
from the monetary position result to current year deferred income taxes.
An analysis of deferred tax liabilities is as follows:
Balances as of
---------------------------------
December 31, December 31,
2000 2001
------------- ------------
Deferred tax assets
Tax losses from prior periods............... Ps. (191,686) Ps. (323,363)
Asset tax paid in prior years............... (93,532) (97,171)
Accrued liabilities......................... (48,167) (83,998)
------------ ------------
(333,385) (504,532)
------------ ------------
Deferred tax liabilities
Property, plant and equipment............... 1,894,196 2,017,491
Inventories................................. 290,032 380,218
Intangible assets and other assets.......... 128,918 137,959
------------ ------------
2,313,146 2,535,668
------------ ------------
Deferred income tax......................... Ps.1,979,761 Ps.2,031,136
============ ============
Balances as of
---------------------------------
December 31, January 1st,
2001 2000
------------- ------------
Deferred tax assets
Tax losses from prior periods............... Ps. (323,363) Ps. (405,914)
Asset tax paid in prior years............... (97,171) (56,901)
Accrued liabilities......................... (83,998) (45,183)
------------ ------------
(504,532) (507,998)
------------ ------------
Deferred tax liabilities
Property, plant and equipment............... 2,017,491 1,990,796
Inventories................................. 380,218 399,420
Intangible assets and other assets 137,959 53,500
------------ ------------
2,535,668 2,443,716
------------ ------------
Deferred income tax......................... Ps.2,031,136 Ps.1,935,718
============ ============
The initial effect from the adoption of this accounting pronouncement
resulted in a decrease in stockholders' equity and the recognition of a
liability in the amount of Ps.1,935,718 as of January 1, 2000. Had the
requirements of the Mexican Accounting Bulletin D-4 been in force in 1999, net
income for such year would have been decreased by Ps.462,722 and net income per
share would have been Ps.18.31.
The differences between actual income tax expense and the amount
computed by applying the statutory income tax rate to the income before income
taxes were as follows:
2001 2000 1999
----------- ----------- -----------
Pretax income......................... Ps. 88,012 Ps. 392,958 Ps.1,147,613
Permanent items:
Inflationary effects............... 176,696 357,073 531,896
Non-deductible..................... 68,946 113,614 (104,119)
Monetary positions................. (179,696) (380,372) (581,469)
Other items........................ 83,397 176,252 (702,999)
----------- ------------ -------------
Income after permanent items....... 237,355 659,525 290,922
Income tax rate.................... 35% 35% 35%
----------- ------------ ------------
Income tax............................ Ps. 83,074 Ps. 230,834 Ps. 101,822
=========== =========== ============
From January 1, 2002 onwards, a gradual decrease in the statutory rate
was approved for each year effective 2003, as to reach a rate of 32% in 2005.
The effect of this change on income for the subsequent years has not been
determined, however, it may be significant.
d) Tax balances
At December 31, 2001 and 2000, the Company had the following account
balances for tax purposes:
Balance of restated contributed capital account (CUCA), Ps.718,250 as
of December 31, 2001 and Ps.689,130 as of December 31, 2000.
Balance of net tax profit account (CUFIN), Ps.1,564,236 as of December
31, 2001 and Ps.1,545,759 as of December 31, 2000.
e) Employees' profit sharing
The Company and its subsidiaries are required to pay employee profit
sharing, in addition to the employees' contractual compensations and benefits.
The statutory employee profit sharing rate is 10% and it is computed based on
taxable income after eliminating certain effects of inflation and the
restatement of depreciation expense.
14. Contingency
The Company has been subject to different claims in connection with the
termination of a commercial agreement to distribute its goods in Costa Rica.
Under Costa Rican legislation, distributors are generally protected against
foreign corporations; consequently, it is likely that proceedings will be filed
against the Company. The related liability has not been quantified, however, the
Company's legal advisors have advised the Company that this situation should not
have an adverse effect on its results of operations or financial position.
15. Commitments
The Company has entered into two operating lease agreements through its
subsidiaries (the lessees), Inpamex Planta Huehuetoca, S.A. de C.V. (Operating
Lease Agreement I) and Papeles Higienicos de Mexico, S.A. de C.V. (Operating
Lease Agreement II) and GE Capital CEF Mexico, S.A. de C.V. (the lessor).
Through Operating Lease Agreement I, the lessor agrees to acquire and
lease specialized machinery for packaging finished products with a value of US $
6.8 million. This agreement stipulates a mandatory term of 24 quarters (6 years)
effective January 1, 2000. The quarterly rental bases are payable by adding or
subtracting a quarterly adjustment rental, as applicable.
Through Operating Lease Agreement II, the lessor agrees to acquire and
lease specialized machinery for tissue paper production with a value of US$17.7
million. This agreement stipulates a mandatory term of 28 quarters (7 years)
effective January 1, 2002. The quarterly rental bases are payable by adding or
subtracting a quarterly adjustment rental, as applicable. The Company has made
advance payments of US$820,731.
At December 31, 2001, the future minimum mandatory payments, excluding
the quarterly adjustment rental, are shown below:
Thousands of
U.S. dollars
2001
------------
2002................................. US$ 4,017
2003................................. 4,050
2004................................. 4,673
2005................................. 4,673
2006................................. 3,336
2007................................. 3,336
2008................................. 3,371
-----------
US$ 27,456
-----------
16. Segment information
Information on the different groups in which the Company operates (see
Note 1) is shown below:
2001
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Printing and
Consumer Packaging writing
products group products group products group Elimination Consolidated
-------------- ------------- -------------- ----------- ------------
Revenue:
External revenues.. Ps.3,610,855 Ps.1,861,716 Ps.2,145,755 Ps.7,618,326
Intersegment
revenues........... 118,733 186,710 - Ps.(305,443) -
Operating income... 495,363 332,406 93,564 921,333
Total assets....... 4,872,394 2,993,824 4,639,489 12,505,707
Depreciation and
amortization....... 173,783 95,105 138,999 407,887
Capital
expenditures....... 108,584 187,385 (1,764) 294,205
2000
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Printing and
Consumer Packaging writing
products group products group products group Elimination Consolidated
-------------- ------------- -------------- ----------- ------------
Revenues:
External revenues... Ps.3,575,136 Ps.1,841,272 Ps.2,450,529 Ps.7,866,937
Intersegment
Revenues............ 63,168 225,677 -- Ps.(288,845) --
Operating income.... 534,211 321,325 (69,109) 786,427
Total assets........ 5,006,834 2,640,887 5,611,386 13,259,107
Depreciation and
amortization........ 169,571 86,827 218,808 475,206
Capital expenditures 104,791 121,097 74,957 300,845
1999
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Printing and
Consumer Packaging writing
products group products group products group Elimination Consolidated
-------------- ------------- -------------- ----------- ------------
Revenues:
External revenues... Ps.3,028,652 Ps.1,761,820 Ps.2,277,297 Ps.7,067,769
Intersegment
Revenues............ 34,839 200,908 74,661 Ps.(310,408) --
Operating income.... 513,461 399,000 21,682) 934,143
Total assets........ 4,640,884 2,457,795 5,897,948 12,996,627
Depreciation and
amortization........ 165,502 90,710 209,775 465,987
Capital expenditures 119,533 78,081 161,025 358,639
Revenues by customer location was as follows:
2001 2000 1999
-------------- -------------- --------------
Mexico................. Ps. 7,217,817 Ps. 7,423,515 Ps. 6,736,968
United States.......... 106,333 205,349 203,771
Central America........ 294,176 238,073 127,030
-------------- -------------- --------------
Ps. 7,618,326 Ps. 7,866,937 Ps. 7,067,769
============== ============== ==============
Revenues by product have not been provided, as it is impracticable to
obtain this information.
17. Differences between Mexican and United States generally accepted
accounting principles ("GAAP").
The Company's consolidated financial statements are prepared in
accordance with Mexican GAAP, which differ in certain significant respects from
generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("U.S. GAAP").
The reconciliations to U.S. GAAP do not include the reversal of the
adjustments to the financial statements for the effects of inflation required
(under Mexican GAAP Bulletin B-10), as its application represents a
comprehensive measure of the effects of price level changes in the Mexican
economy and, as such, is considered a more meaningful presentation than
historical cost-based financial reporting for both Mexican and U.S. accounting
purposes.
The principal differences between Mexican GAAP and U.S. GAAP as they
relate to the Company are discussed below and include a presentation of the
effect on the Company's consolidated stockholders' equity and consolidated net
income, in thousands of constant Mexican pesos with purchasing power at December
31, 2001. Explanation of the adjustments, where appropriate, is provided below.
Summary:
Consolidated stockholders' equity and consolidated net income, adjusted
for the effect of certain material differences between Mexican GAAP and U.S.
GAAP, are as follows:
2001 2000
------------- -------------
Total stockholders' equity under Mexican GAAP......................... Ps. 4,057,987 Ps. 4,270,313
U.S. GAAP adjustments:
Capitalized interest............................................. 582,061 582,061
Accumulated depreciation of capitalized interest................. (104,892) (91,620)
Deferred income tax on US GAAP adjustments (1)................... (21,095) (32,630)
Deferred employee profit sharing(1) ............................. (591,325) (618,716)
Deferred employee profit sharing on US GAAP adjustments(1)....... (45,218) (17,607)
Goodwill and negative goodwill................................... (42,898) (49,174)
Inventory valuations............................................. 49,971 51,376
Start-up expenses................................................ (15,776) (17,512)
Use of software.................................................. (49,643) (28,901)
Minority interest................................................ (166,067) (131,721)
------------- -------------
Stockholders' equity under U.S. GAAP.................................. Ps. 3,653,105 Ps. 3,915,869
============= =============
2001 2000 1999
------------- ------------- -----------
Net (loss) income before minority interest as reported under
Mexican GAAP............................................. Ps. (5,065) Ps. 155,450 Ps.1,040,117
U.S. GAAP adjustments:
Capitalization of interest.............................. -- -- 33,185
Depreciation of capitalized interest.................... (13,272) (13,840) (13,117)
Deferred income tax on U.S. GAAP adjustments(1)......... 11,535 68,916 (46,770)
Deferred income tax(1).................................. -- -- (462,722)
Deferred employee profit sharing on U.S. GAAP
adjustments(1)....................................... (27,611) (3,691) (3,922)
Deferred employee profit sharing(1)..................... 27,391 120,820 76,361
Inventory valuation..................................... (1,405) 3,333 (6,057)
Amortization of goodwill and negative goodwill ......... 6,276 6,277 9,545
Use of software......................................... (20,742) (28,901) --
Start-up expenses....................................... 1,736 (17,512) --
Minority interest on US GAAP adjustments................ (33,461) (18,188) (62,562)
------------- ------------- -----------
Consolidated net (loss) income under U.S. GAAP.............. Ps. (54,618) Ps. 272,664 Ps. 564,058
============= ============= ===========
Weighted average common shares outstanding.................. 28,507,926 28,482,921 28,454,200
------------- ------------- -----------
(Loss) earnings per share (in Mexican pesos)................ Ps. (1.92) Ps. 9.57 Ps. 19.82
============= ============= ===========
- -------------------
(1) Deferred income taxes and employee profit sharing are reflected net of the
effect on net monetary position. The deferred tax amounts include the
applicable deferred tax on the GAAP adjustments included in the
reconciliation.
Operating income
After giving effect to the foregoing adjustments of depreciation of
capitalized interest, inventory valuation, amortization of goodwill, use of
software and start-up expenses; as well to the reclassification of the asset
write down and amortizations of excess of shares of subsidiaries over book
value, amortization of intangible assets, (loss) gain on sales of fixed assets
and other materials disclosed in note 12, and to the reclassification of the
employee profit sharing expense and the deferred employee profit sharing
expense, operating income under U.S. GAAP totaled Ps.193,062, Ps.763,835 and
Ps.949,097, in 2001, 2000 and 1999, respectively.
Capitalized interest
Under Mexican GAAP it is optional to capitalize comprehensive financing
income (cost) on assets under construction. Under U.S. GAAP, only interest on
borrowings in foreign currency may be considered an additional cost of
constructed assets to be capitalized in property, plant and equipment and
depreciated over the lives of the related assets. The amount of interest
capitalized for U.S. GAAP purposes was determined by reference to the Company's
average interest cost of outstanding borrowings.
Income taxes
Income tax, asset tax and employee profit sharing are recorded under
Mexican GAAP in accordance with the Mexican accounting Bulletin D-4, explained
in Notes 1 and 13.
As explained in Note 1 and 13, the accounting for deferred income tax
was changed in 2000 with the issuance of Bulletin D-4. Bulletin D-4 requires
that deferred income tax be determined on virtually all temporary differences in
balance sheets accounts for financing and tax reporting purposes and that such
difference be measured at the enacted income tax rates for the years in which
such taxes will be payable or refundable.
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109 ("SFAS No. 109")
"Accounting for Income Taxes", requires deferred income tax be determined using
the liability method for all temporary differences between financial reporting
and tax bases of assets and liabilities and that such difference be measured at
the enacted income tax rates for the years in which such taxes will be payable
or refundable.
Upon the adoption of new Bulletin D-4, there are no substantive
differences between Mexican accounting principles and SFAS No. 109 in accounting
for income taxes.
The Company is required to pay employee profit sharing in accordance
with Mexican labor law; in accordance with Bulletin D-4 deferred employee profit
sharing is recognized only on temporary differences determined in the current
year reconciliation between the net income for financial and for employee profit
sharing purposes, provided there is no indication that the related liabilities
or assets will not be realized in the future. Deferred employee profit sharing
under U.S. GAAP has been determined following the guidelines of SFAS No. 109.
Since the Company adopted the requirements of the new Mexican Bulletin
D-4, the net deferred income tax (asset) liability on the U.S. GAAP adjustment
as of December 31, 2001 and deferred income tax under the U.S. GAAP as of
December 31, 2000, consist of the following:
2001 2000
-------------- --------------
Deferred Income Tax Assets:
Tax losses from prior periods.................... Ps. (191,686) Ps. (323,363)
Asset tax paid in prior years.................... (93,532) (97,171)
Accrued liabilities.............................. (48,167) (83,998)
-------------- --------------
(333,385) (504,532)
-------------- --------------
Deferred Income Tax Liabilities:
Property, plant and equipment.................... 1,924,038 2,035,472
Inventories...................................... 307,522 411,113
Intangible assets and other assets............... 102,681 121,713
-------------- --------------
2,334,241 2,568,298
-------------- --------------
Net deferred income tax liability under U.S. GAAP.... Ps. 2,000,856 Ps. 2,063,766
============== ==============
Net current deferred income tax liabilities amount to Ps.259,355 and
Ps.327,115 in 2001 and 2000, respectively. Net non-current deferred income tax
liabilities amount to Ps.1,741,501 and Ps.1,736,651 in 2001 and 2000,
respectively.
The material components of the net deferred employee profit sharing
liability under U.S. GAAP consist of the following:
2001 2000
----------- -----------
Deferred Employee Profit Sharing Assets:
Accrued liabilities............................................... Ps. 11,951 Ps. 23,999
Deferred Employee Profit Sharing Liabilities:
Inventories....................................................... 87,863 113,771
Property, plant and equipment..................................... 534,467 536,427
Intangible assets and other assets................................ 26,164 10,124
----------- -----------
648,494 660,322
----------- -----------
Net deferred employee profit sharing liability under U.S. GAAP.... Ps. 636,543 Ps. 636,323
=========== ===========
Net current deferred employee profit sharing liabilities amount to
Ps.75,912 and Ps.89,772 in 2001 and 2000, respectively. Net non-current deferred
income tax liabilities amount to Ps.560,631 and Ps.546,551 in 2001 and 2000,
respectively.
Minority interest
Under Mexican GAAP, the minority interest in consolidated subsidiaries
is presented as a separate component of stockholders' equity. For U.S. GAAP
purposes, the minority interest is generally presented out of stockholders'
equity. Therefore, for U.S. GAAP purposes, the Company reclassified minority
interest from stockholders' equity, decreasing its total stockholders' equity by
Ps.166,067 and Ps.131,721 at December 31, 2001, and 2000, respectively.
Goodwill and Negative goodwill
In 1992 the Company acquired all of the shares of CIP, S.A. de C.V.
This acquisition generated a negative goodwill in the amount of Ps.95,164, which
was taken to income for Mexican GAAP purposes in such year. For U.S. GAAP
purposes, the Company is amortizing this negative goodwill over a period of
nineteen years.
In 1996 the Company acquired all of the shares of its subsidiary
Sancela, S.A. de C.V. This acquisition generated goodwill in the amount of
Ps.25,341, which for Mexican GAAP purposes is being amortized over a period of
ten years, while for U.S. GAAP purposes is being amortized over a period of
twenty years.
Impairment of Assets
Statement No. 121 "Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
and for Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed Of," requires impairment losses to be
recorded on long-lived assets used in operations when indicators of impairments
are present and the undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated by those
assets are less than the assets' carrying amount. Statement 121 also addresses
the accounting for long-lived assets that are expected to be disposed of. During
the year the Company decided to close the operations of the Pondercel Pulp mill,
which resulted in adjustment amounted Ps.600,900 and are shown in the statement
of income as an asset write down (see Note 5).
For Mexican GAAP purposes, the impairment herein mentioned is excluded
from operating income, while under U.S. GAAP such amount must be presented under
operating income.
Inventory valuations
In Mexico the direct costing system is accepted, which considers only
the variable costs of production, to inventory valuation.
Under U.S. GAAP inventory must include all the fixed and variable
production costs.
As a result of the above, the Company included adjustments in the U.S.
GAAP reconciliation charging to income Ps.1,405 in 2001, and credited to income
Ps.3,333 in 2000, and debited to income Ps.6,057 in 1999.
Costs of developing or obtaining internal-use software
Statement Of Position 98-1 "Accounting for the Cost of Computer
Software Developed or Obtained for Internal Use" issued by the American
Institute of Certified Public Accountants, requires that qualifying internal and
external costs incurred during the application development stage be capitalized,
while costs incurred during the preliminary project stage and post
implementation stage/operation stage are to be expensed as incurred.
Under Mexican GAAP, the Company capitalized Ps.20,742 and Ps.28,901 as
of December 31, 2001 and 2000, respectively, related to the preliminary project
stage of implementing Peoplesoft. No amortization has taken place since this
project has not yet been concluded. These amounts have been included in the U.S.
GAAP reconciliation.
Costs of start-up activities
During 2000, the Company opened a new facility for its production of
corrugated boxes for Mexican GAAP purposes; start-up expenses in the amount of
Ps.17,512 were capitalized. During the year of 2001, the Company amortized
Ps.1,736 for Mexican GAAP purposes.
Under U.S. GAAP, start-up costs must be expensed as incurred.
Additional disclosures about Pensions and other Post-retirement Benefits
The Company has adopted the provisions of Statements of Financial
Accounting Standards No. 132, "Employers' Disclosures about Pensions and Other
Post-retirement Benefits".
The change in the seniority premiums and pension benefit obligations
for the period was as follows:
2001 2000
----------- -----------
Projected benefits obligations at beginning of year Ps. 87,008 Ps. 73,115
----------- -----------
Change in benefit obligations:
Labor cost........................................... 7,425 7,382
Interest cost........................................ 4,946 4,041
Amortization......................................... 1,761 1,265
Additional liability................................. 6,527 2,845
Benefit payments..................................... (6,809) (1,868)
Other................................................ 473 228
----------- -----------
Net increase in benefit obligations.................. 14,323 13,893
----------- -----------
Projected benefits obligations at end of year........ Ps. 101,331 Ps. 87,008
=========== ===========
Fair value of financial instruments
In accordance with U.S. Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No.
107, (SFAS No. 107) "Disclosures about Fair Value of Financial Instruments",
information is provided about the fair value of all financial instruments. The
estimated fair value of financial instrument is the amount at which the
instrument could be exchanged in a current transaction between willing parties.
The following methods and assumptions are used to estimate the fair
value of financial instruments:
Cash and cash equivalents.
The carrying amounts approximate fair value because of the short
maturity of such instruments.
Bank loans and long-term debt.
The carrying value of the Company's bank loans and short-term debt is
deemed to equal fair value. The interest rate on the Company's short-term debt
is in accordance with market rates.
The fair value of long-term debt is estimated using discounted cash
flow analyses based on current borrowing rates offered to the Company for debt
of the same remaining maturities and the market value for the bonds at December
31, 2001 and 2000. As of December 31, 2001, the carrying value of total
long-term debt is Ps.3,548,519 (Ps.3,907,045 at December 31, 2000) and the fair
value is Ps.3,440,145 (Ps.3,791,316 at December 31, 2000).
Additional short-term debt and restricted cash
An analysis of short-term debt as of December 31, 2001 and 2000 is as
follows:
Interest rate 2001 2000
------------- ------------- -------------
EuroCommercial Paper(1)...... 5.76% Ps. 786,422 Ps. --
Unsecured bank loans......... 8.55-9.56% 720,858 1,505,902
------------- -------------
Total short-term debt........ Ps. 1,507,280 Ps. 1,505,902
============= =============
During December 31, 2001, the Company extinguished Ps.256,746 of debt
by creating an irrevocable trust fund and transferring restricted cash to this
trust. Under Mexican GAAP the Company has removed both the cash and the debt
from the balance sheet. FAS 140 "Accounting for Transfers and Servicing of
Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities" states that a liability is
considered to have been extinguished only if the debtor pays the creditor and is
relieved of its obligation for the liability or if the debtor is legally
released from being the primary obligor under the liability, either judicially
or by the creditor. Neither of these preconditions has taken place and as such
the balance sheet under U.S. GAAP would reflect an increase to short-term debt
of Ps.256,746 and an increase to restricted cash of Ps.256,746. The short-tem
debt has an interest rate of 5.76% and is due January 2002.
Financial instruments with off-balance-sheet risk
The Company has no financial instruments with off-balance-sheet risk.
Amortization of excess of cost of shares of subsidiaries over book value and
amortization of intangible assets.
Under U.S. GAAP, these items are included in operating income. Under
Mexican GAAP they are included in other expenses.
Impact of recently issued accounting standards
In June 2001, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued
Statements of Financial Accounting Standards No. 141, Business Combinations, and
No. 142, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets. Statement 141 requires that the
purchase method of accounting be used for all business combinations initiated
after June 30, 2001. Statement 141 also includes guidance on the initial
recognition and measurement of goodwill and other intangible assets arising from
business combinations, including intangible assets with indefinite useful lives.
Statement 142 prohibits the amortization of goodwill and intangible assets with
indefinite useful lives. Statement 142 requires that these assets be reviewed
for impairment at least annually. Intangible assets with finite lives will
continue to be amortized over their estimated useful lives. Additionally,
Statement 142 requires that goodwill included in the carrying value of equity
method investments no longer be amortized.
As a result of the application of Statement 141 in 2002, the Company
will include as a cumulative effect adjustment in the 2002 U.S. GAAP the write
off the unamortized negative goodwill at December 31, 2001, which amounts to
Ps.50,079. In addition the Company will apply Statement 142 in 2002. Application
of the nonamortization provisions of Statement 142 is expected to result in an
increase in net income of Ps.10,319 in 2002. The Company will test goodwill for
impairment using the two-step process prescribed in Statement 142. The first
step is a screen for potential impairment, while the second step measures the
amount of the impairment, if any. The Company expects to perform the first of
the required impairment test of goodwill and indefinite lived intangible assets
as of January 1, 2002 during 2002. Any impairment charge resulting from these
transitional impairment tests will be reflected as the cumulative effect of the
adoption of Statement 142. The Company has not yet determined what the effect of
these tests will be on the earnings and financial position of the Company.
In August 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 143, "Accounting for Asset
Retirement Obligations" which establishes the accounting standards for the
recognition and measurement of obligations associated with the retirement of
tangible long-lived assets. Under SFAS No. 143, the costs of retiring an asset
will be recorded as a liability when the retirement obligation arises, and will
be amortized over the life of the asset. SFAS No. 143 is effective for fiscal
years beginning after June 15, 2002. The Company is still assessing the
potential impact of SFAS No. 143 on its consolidated results of operations and
financial position.
In October 2001, the FASB issued SFAS No. 144, "Accounting for the
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets" which supersedes SFAS No. 121, "Accounting for
the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of"
and the accounting and reporting provisions of APB No. 30, "Reporting the
Results of Operations--Reporting the Effects of Disposal of a Segment of a
Business, and Extraordinary, Unusual and Infrequently Occurring Events and
Transactions" for the disposal of a segment of a business. SFAS No. 144 retains
many of the provisions of SFAS No. 121, but addresses certain implementation
issues associated with the Statement. SFAS No. 144 is effective for periods
beginning after December 15, 2001. The Company will adopt SFAS 144 beginning in
the first quarter of its fiscal year ending December 31, 2002.
Reporting Comprehensive income
FASB Statement No. 130, "Reporting Comprehensive Income." Statement No.
130 establishes rules for reporting and disclosure of comprehensive income and
the related components. Statement No. 130 requires the deficit from restatement
of stockholders' equity and its corresponding deferred taxes to be included in
other comprehensive income.
Cumulative effects of the deficit from restatement of stockholders'
equity and deferred taxes included in other comprehensive income at December 31,
2001 are Ps.(903,105) and Ps.316,087, respectively.
The statement of changes in stockholders' equity for the years ended
December 31, 2001, 2000 and 1999, under U.S. GAAP are as follows:
Accumulated
Additional other
paid-in Comprehensive Comprehensive
Capital Stock capital Retained losses Income Income (loss) Total
------------- ---------- --------------- ------------- ------------- ------------
Balances at December 31, 1998.. Ps.4,819,747 Ps.(1,182,311) Ps.16,524 Ps.3,653,960
Cash dividends paid............ (185,875) (185,875)
Comprehensive income:
Net income for the year..... 564,058 Ps. 564,058 564,058
Other comprehensive income:
Deficit from holding
nonmonetary assets (net of
deferred taxes)........... (162,721) (162,721) (162,721)
------------
Comprehensive income........... Ps. 401,337
============
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balances at December 31, 1999.. 4,819,747 (804,128) (146,197) 3,869,422
Increase in capital stock...... 7,139 Ps. 6,336 13,475
Comprehensive income:
Net income for the year..... 272,664 Ps. 272,664 272,664
Other comprehensive income:
Deficit from holding
nonmonetary assets (net of
deferred taxes)........... (239,692) (239,692) (239,692)
------------
Comprehensive income........... Ps. 32,972
============
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balances at December 31, 2000.. 4,826,886 6,336 (531,464) (385,889) 3,915,869
Effect of spin-off............. (7,017) (7,017)
Comprehensive income:
Net loss for the year....... (54,618) Ps. (54,618) Ps. (54,618)
Other comprehensive income:
Deficit from holding
nonmonetary assets (net of
deferred taxes)........... (201,129) (201,129) (201,129)
------------
Comprehensive loss............. Ps. (255,747)
============
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balances at December 31, 2001.. Ps.4,819,869 Ps. 6,336 Ps. (586,082) Ps. (587,018) Ps.3,653,105
============ ========== ============= ============ ============
Cash flow information
Under Mexican GAAP, the Company presents consolidated statements of
changes in financial position, as specifies in Bulletin B-12, which establishes
the rules when the financial statements have been restated in constant pesos in
accordance with Bulletin B-10. The changes in the consolidated financial
statement balances include in this statement constitute resources provided by
and used in operating, financing and investing activities stated in constant
pesos (including monetary and foreign exchange gains and losses).
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 95 ("SFAS No. 95"),
"Statement of Cash Flow", establishes U.S. standards for providing a statement
of cash flows in general-purpose financial statements. SFAS No. 95 does not
provide guidance with respect to inflation adjusted financial statements. In
accordance with Mexican GAAP, the changes in current and long-term debt due to
restatement in constant pesos, including the effect of exchange differences, are
presented in the statement of changes in financial position in the financing
activities section. The Company has adopted the guidance issued by the AICPA SEC
Regulations Committee's International Practices Task Force in its meeting held
on November 24, 1998, encouraging foreign registrants that file price level
adjusted financial statements to provide cash flow statements that show
separately the effects of inflation on cash flow. A consolidated statements of
cash flow derived from information prepared in accordance with U.S. GAAP would
be as follows:
2001 2000 1999
----------- ----------- -----------
Operating activities:
Net (loss) income under U.S. GAAP....................................... Ps. (54,618) Ps. 272,664 Ps. 564,058
Items not requiring (providing) the use of resources:
Allowance for doubtful accounts..................................... 5,346 5,206 4,866
Depreciation and amortization....................................... 421,159 474,975 442,610
Equity in income of associated companies............................ 25,834 -- --
Special item........................................................ 507,000 -- --
Provision for labor obligations..................................... 14,132 12,688 10,469
Amortization of excess of cost of shares of subsidiaries over
book value........................................................ (1,268) (1,266) 2,365
Deferred income tax................................................. (11,536) 139,516 509,492
Deferred employee profit sharing.................................... 220 (117,129) (72,439)
Goodwill............................................................ (5,008) (5,010) (7,183)
Result from monetary position....................................... (179,696) (380,372) (581,469)
Restricted cash..................................................... (256,746) -- --
Unrealized foreign exchange (gain) loss............................. (185,593) 99,267 (216,016)
----------- ----------- -----------
279,226 500,539 656,753
Trade receivables................................................... 284,107 (182,101) (175,301)
Inventories......................................................... (83,728) (65,419) (195,617)
Related parties..................................................... (56,610) 1,506 (1,356)
Prepaid expenses.................................................... (112,253) (59,779) 10,627
Suppliers........................................................... 89,625 68,994 72,855
Other accounts receivable and payable, net.......................... 92,417 81,147 91,997
Income tax, asset tax and employee profit sharing................... 20,304 (51,803) 55,604
----------- ----------- -----------
Net cash provided by operating activities............................... 513,088 293,084 515,562
----------- ----------- -----------
Financing activities:
Short-term bank loans............................................... 347,819 (434,671) 64,022
Bonds............................................................... -- -- --
Proceeds from borrowings from bank loans and issuance of
long-term debt.................................................... 594,970 1,099,918 57,407
Payments of long-term debt.......................................... (887,799) (720,665) (712,268)
Cash dividends paid................................................. -- -- (185,875)
Effect of spin-off.................................................. (6,913) -- --
Minority interest................................................... 41,406 (12,862) 28,998
----------- ----------- -----------
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities..................... 89,483 (68,280) (875,760)
----------- ----------- -----------
Investing activities:
Property, plant and equipment, net.................................. (280,933) (287,005) (338,570)
Intangible assets................................................... -- (39,388) (18,910)
Related parties..................................................... 82,396 (199,510) --
Excess of cost of shares over book value............................ (75,307) (8,670) --
Other investments................................................... (104,545) (798) 2,783
----------- ----------- -----------
Net cash used in investing activities................................... (378,789) (535,371) (354,697)
----------- ----------- -----------
Effect of inflation accounting.......................................... (43,121) 302,926 572,141
Decrease in cash and cash equivalents................................... 181,061 (7,641) (142,754)
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of year...................... 36,437 44,078 186,832
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of year............................ Ps. 217,498 Ps. 36,437 Ps. 44,078
=========== =========== ===========
Interest expense paid................................................... Ps. 610,223 Ps. 649,656 Ps. 587,054
=========== =========== ===========
Income taxes paid....................................................... Ps. 33,757 Ps. 48,407 Ps. 41,629
=========== =========== ===========