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THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 1997 ANNUAL REPORT
[EARTHGRAINS LOGO]
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A fresh BEGINNING
We are proud to present the first annual report of The Earthgrains Company,
an international manufacturer, distributor, and consumer marketer of fresh
baked goods and refrigerated dough products. | The Earthgrains name reflects
our values -- freshness, health, taste, variety and excellence. Founded in
1925 in America's heartland and formerly known as Campbell Taggart, Inc.,
Earthgrains was spun off as an independent company from Anheuser-Busch
Companies, Inc. in March 1996. | Earthgrains, listed on the New York Stock
Exchange under the EGR symbol, operates four businesses in the United States
and Europe:
[PICTURE]
U.S. BAKERY PRODUCTS markets packaged fresh-baked bread, buns, rolls and
snack cakes under leading brands in the Southeast, South, Southwest, Midwest
and Northern California.
[PICTURE]
U.S. REFRIGERATED DOUGH PRODUCTS supplies customers nationwide with biscuits,
cinnamon rolls, cookie dough, toaster pastries and pie crusts, primarily under
retailers' store brands (private label).
[PICTURE]
EUROPEAN BAKERY PRODUCTS, known as Bimbo, S.A., (pronounced Beem-bo) is Spain's
largest baker of American-style sliced bread, buns and rolls, and Portugal's
second-largest seller of those products.
[PICTURE]
EUROPEAN REFRIGERATED DOUGH PRODUCTS, known as Europate, S.A., is the only
supplier of canned dough products in Europe and also produces rolled dough
products.
===============================================================================
Earthgrains has more than 11,000 employees in the United States and almost
3,000 in Europe who are dedicated to carrying out the Company's mission --
providing superior customer service, offering consumer satisfaction through
quality products, and increasing shareholder value.
===============================================================================
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Financial Highlights 1 Letter to Shareholders 2 Earthgrains at a Glance 4
Recipe for Success & Appetite for Growth 9 Financial Contents 16
Officers of The Earthgrains Company and Its Principal Subsidiaries 40
Board of Directors and Corporate Information 41
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Financial Highlights
----------------------------------------
For years ended
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Dollars in millions, except per share amounts) March 25, 1997 March 26, 1996<F1>
==========================================================================================================
Pro Forma
Net Sales $1,662.6 $1,660.5
Net Income (loss) $ 16.2 $ (29.9)
Earnings (loss) per Share $ 1.60 $ (2.93)
Excluding nonrecurring charges and credits:<F2>
Net Income (loss) $ 18.8 $ (18.3)
Earnings (loss) per Share $ 1.86 $ (1.80)
EBITDA<F3> $ 126.2 $ 67.6
EBITDA Margin 7.6% 4.1 %
Operating Income (loss) $ 40.3 $ (17.4)
Operating Margin 2.4% (1.0)%
==========================================================================================================
Net Sales [GRAPH]
(In millions)
Sales in 1997 show an increase of 4.4 percent over the year-ago period when
the comparison is adjusted to eliminate facilities sold or closed because of
restructuring. Revenue increased in all four businesses during 1997.
Earnings (loss) per Share [GRAPH]
(In dollars)
Growth in earnings per share reflects Earthgrains' significant turnaround
during its first year as an independent public company.
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EBITDA Margin [GRAPH]
(As percent)
EBITDA margin nearly doubled in fiscal 1997, compared with the margin in the
year-ago period. Improved cash flow continues to be an important target for
future performance.
Debt-to-Capitalization Ratio [GRAPH]
(As percent)
Modest debt provides Earthgrains with a strong capital platform for growth
and significant financial flexibility to take advantage of industry
consolidation opportunities.
===============================================================================
[FN]
<F1> Unaudited pro forma information (see page 17) produces more
meaningful comparisons with actual results for fiscal 1997;
however, the pro forma information is not necessarily indicative
of results that would have occurred if the Company had been an
independent company during the comparable year-ago period for
1996.
<F2> 1997 amounts exclude a $12.7 million provision for restructuring
and $5.3 million in Spanish tax incentives and credits. 1996 amounts
exclude a $3.0 million provision for restructuring, $7.8 million for
the Spanish work force reduction program and $7.6 for a legal
settlement and other nonrecurring costs.
<F3> EBITDA is earnings before interest expense, income texes, depreciation
and amortization.
<F4> 1996 sales have been adjusted to eliminate facilities sold or closed
because of restructuring.
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 1
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Letter to Shareholders
I am very pleased to report The Earthgrains Company's accomplishments in its
first year as an independent public company. We have several important
positives to report: stock price appreciation, increased profitability, and
increased revenues. As we celebrate the renewed success of our company in
the United States and Europe, we are also looking to the future. We are
hungry to increase shareholder value further. Our results in fiscal 1997
represent a solid start that is indicative of Earthgrains' significant
potential for additional improvement.
FIRST-YEAR GOALS MET, ADDITIONAL GOALS SET A year ago, we stated a clear
goal: to improve revenues and profitability. We accomplished that. Revenues
from ongoing operations were $1.663 billion, up 4.4 percent from the comparable
year-ago period. More important, our operating margins improved in all four
businesses in the United States and Europe. Net income, excluding nonrecurring
charges, was $18.8 million, up from a pro forma loss of $18.3 million.
[PHOTO]
The result was a total return on your investment of 69 percent -- a
figure that includes our dividends and stock appreciation, which outperformed
the S&P 500. Earnings per share, excluding one-time charges, were $1.86, up
from a pro forma loss of $1.80 per share in the equivalent year-before
period. In other moves, the Earthgrains Board of Directors declared a
2-for-1 stock split effective July 28, 1997, and authorized repurchase of up
to 500,000 shares, or 5 percent of shares outstanding, subject to a favorable
Internal Revenue Service ruling.
As you can see, our turnaround progress has been good -- particularly
in our U.S. and European bakery operations. Given our current trends, we
expect even better performance. We want to be the best in the industry and
drive shareholder value. By fiscal 2000, our goal is to more than double our
operating margin, taking it to 5 percent. Our goal for EBITDA margin --
earnings before interest expense, income taxes, depreciation and amortization
- -- is 10 percent, with a stretch goal of 11 percent. These goals are
supported by our new exceptional performance compensation program.
We will continue to move toward these goals by using our business
strategies that worked so well this first year:
* Offering quality, value and variety of products to consumers
* Enhancing customer satisfaction -- being the preferred supplier to
customers
* Reducing and controlling costs
* Taking advantage of industry consolidation opportunities
TURNAROUND THROUGH FOCUS, FLEXIBILITY AND REWARDS As an independent
company, Earthgrains has developed a culture of focus, flexibility and rewards
to improve shareholder value.
We like the opportunities in our core business areas of packaged
fresh-baked goods and refrigerated dough products -- both in the United
States and in Europe. In bakery, we focus on building branded business to
drive margins. In dough, we focus on operational excellence to provide
customers with the finest quality store-brand products. Our businesses in the
United States and Europe are parallel, and we are able to take advantage of
many lessons learned to benefit both domestic and international operations.
We have made significant turnarounds in our U.S. and European bakery
products businesses, where we boosted profits and sales. We have lowered
costs through re-engineered operations and have improved product mix,
including new products and line extensions. In Spain, Bimbo, S.A., has
increased market share and enjoys one of the most recognizable names in the
branded food business.
2 THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY
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A strong balance sheet has given Earthgrains the flexibility to respond
quickly to industry conditions and market opportunities. We were spun off in
sound financial condition, and we have done a good job of managing our cash.
Earthgrains' debt-to-capitalization ratio of 15 percent gives us flexibility
and a strong platform for growth.
Our strong balance sheet also allows us to invest in disciplined
high-return-on-investment capital projects, such as construction of our first
Portuguese bakery, which will come on line in the summer of 1998 to meet
increasing demand for bakery products in Portugal and northwest Spain. Our
investment in information technology, such as the latest handheld computers,
category management software, electronic partnerships with customers, and
business application software, sets us apart from the competition. The
benefits are numerous, including enhanced customer partnering, reduced
distribution costs, and other efficiencies.
[GRAPH]
One of the most significant changes in our culture has been aligning
the interests of management and employees with shareholders. Earthgrains has
many employee-owners through its 401(k) plan and its Employee Stock Purchase
Plan. Employee 401(k) contributions are matched by the company through
investment in Earthgrains stock. We use business focal points, such as
increasing revenue, increasing manufacturing and selling efficiencies, and
improving safety, to link rewards with performance that drives EBITDA and
Return on Capital Employed (ROCE). Moreover, Earthgrains' new Exceptional
Performance Plan, an aggressive, broad-based compensation plan for more than
160 key executives, links significant one-time cash awards to reaching
financial performance measures of 10 percent and 11 percent EBITDA margin
concurrent with ROCE above the cost of capital. These programs and other
incentives are critical to increasing shareholder value.
TAKING ADVANTAGE OF GROWTH AND CONSOLIDATION We began our independence with
a vision of getting better, then bigger. We are better, and our improvements
in our first year have put us in position to improve profitability even further
and to take advantage of appropriate growth opportunities -- within existing
markets and in new territory.
Public ownership of the leading U.S. baking companies has resulted in
positive fundamental change in the industry and a move away from its
commodity nature. The factors for growth of U.S. Bakery Products are in
place. Bread and baked goods consumption is steady, and customers are willing
to pay more for premium products with unique qualities and tastes. We are
making fundamental changes by being innovative with our customers and
offering superior products, such as our successful shelf-stable bagels, which
consumers enjoy for their taste, value and nutrition.
We will continue to take advantage of consolidation in the U.S. baking
industry for profitable growth. In the past year, we have rationalized our
capacity while improving customer service, revenue and product quality. We
were able to move quickly to reach an agreement to supply Jitney-Jungle
Stores of America with branded and store-brand breads using our existing
bakery capacity. We also entered into production and licensing agreements
with Interstate Bakeries Corp. in north Texas and Virginia.
Our acquisition in December 1996 of Heiner's Bakery, Inc. of
Huntington, W.Va., almost immediately added to earnings. With our strong
balance sheet and cash position, we are seeking further acquisitions to
enhance revenues, profitability and return on capital.
Earthgrains is moving forward according to plan. We have hard-working,
dedicated employees (many of whom are shareholders), solid relationships with
customers, and a strong mix of products and businesses -- all of which we can
build on. I look forward to reporting our progress to you in the future.
Sincerely,
/s/ Barry H. Beracha
Barry H. Beracha
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
June 13, 1997
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 3
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Earthgrains at a Glance
Net Sales
(In millions)
- --------------------------------
/ / U.S. $1,297.1
/ / European 365.5
- --------------------------------
Total $1,662.6
[GRAPH]
U.S. operations accounted for 78 percent of total sales in 1997, while
European operations contributed 22 percent. Sales for all four businesses
increased in 1997, and all operate in healthy, growing markets.
Operating Income<F*>
(In millions)
- --------------------------------
/ / U.S. $15.1
/ / European 25.2
- --------------------------------
Total $40.3
[GRAPH]
Turnaround in European Bakery Products significantly contributed to operating
income in 1997. A turnaround in U.S. operations is under way and continued
improvement should contribute to an increasing percentage of total operating
income in subsequent years.
[FN]
<F*>See footnote 2 on page 1, Financial Highlights.
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U.S. BAKERY PRODUCTS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PRODUCTS Earthgrains is the third-largest bread and baked goods
producer in the United States. Fresh-baked products sold to retail grocers
include white, wheat, pan, and hearth-baked breads and rolls, as well as
bagels, snack cakes, cookies and other sweet goods. Earthgrains supplies
specialty buns and rolls, sandwich buns, and other bakery products for food
service and fast-food customers such as Burger King, Pizza Hut and Waffle
House.
MARKETS Earthgrains markets its popular, premium and superpremium
products under leading brand names in 27 states in the Southeast, South,
Southwest, Midwest and Northern California -- representing about a third of
the U.S. population. Earthgrains brands hold the No. 1 or No. 2 market
position in 16 of the Company's 19 sales zones. Earthgrains distributes
baked goods through more than 2,800 direct-store delivery routes and more
than 240 thrift stores.
OVERVIEW Earthgrains continues to roll out new products to supplement
its lineup of popular pan breads, premium variety breads, superpremium
hearth-baked breads, and other baked goods. Earth Grains(R) brand
shelf-stable bagels have captured a significant market share in their first
year.
Earthgrains operates 33 bakeries serving pan bread markets in a
300-mile radius of its plants.
U.S. Bakery Products also has three Diversified Products bakeries,
which make such products as hearth-baked breads, croissants, breadsticks,
snack cakes, and cookies for distribution throughout Earthgrains' markets.
Earthgrains has entered an agreement to acquire its bagel co-packer, H&L
Baking Co. of Albuquerque, N.M., to bring specialized bagel production into
the company's Diversified Products operation.
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U.S. REFRIGERATED DOUGH PRODUCTS
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PRODUCTS Earthgrains is the second-largest producer of refrigerated
dough products in the United States. The Company makes packaged dough
products that are sold through grocery refrigerated sections, including
canned biscuits, crescent rolls, cinnamon rolls, cookie dough, breadsticks,
pizza crust, and refrigerated pie crusts. The Company also makes toaster
pastries.
MARKETS Earthgrains is the only manufacturer of store-brand
refrigerated dough products, which are marketed nationwide under more than
200 store brands. Earthgrains co-packs brand-name cookie dough and is one of
the largest producers of store-brand toaster pastries.
Products are also sold under Earthgrains' Merico(R) brand name as well
as under the Sun Maid(R) brand. Refrigerated dough products are distributed
throughout the United States, primarily by direct sales to large retail
grocery chains and grocery wholesalers.
OVERVIEW Earthgrains manufactures refrigerated dough products at its
Forest Park, Ga., and Carrollton, Texas, plants, with a focus on operational
excellence.
In the last year, U.S. Refrigerated Dough Products has improved its
product mix and streamlined its pricing system to improve customer service
significantly.
Working in conjunction with the Earthgrains R&D Center, Refrigerated
Dough Products quickly develops products for customers to meet consumer
demand and market trends. New products introduced in the last year include
3-inch-diameter Jumbos biscuits and cinnamon rolls, and a line of low-fat
toaster pastries.
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EUROPEAN BAKERY PRODUCTS
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PRODUCTS Earthgrains' Spanish subsidiary, Bimbo, S.A., operates eight
bakeries and is the leading producer of fresh-baked sliced bread, buns, and
rolls in Spain. Bimbo is the second-largest marketer of fresh-baked sliced
bread in Portugal. In addition to baked breads, buns, and rolls, Bimbo makes
snack cakes and other sweet goods.
MARKETS More than 90 percent of European Bakery Products sales come
from branded goods, including Bimbo(R) brand white breads and Silueta(R)
brand wheat breads. More than 200 branded products are marketed through
almost 1,100 direct-store delivery routes.
A store-brand bread business is operated separately under Bimbo's Pimad
subsidiary.
OVERVIEW Bimbo, S.A., founded in 1964, introduced American-style sliced
bread to Spain. Bimbo, which was acquired by Earthgrains in 1971, had some
of the same founders as Grupo Industrial Bimbo in Mexico, but the two
companies have always been independent.
Bimbo, headquartered in Barcelona, Spain, is one of the top food
companies in Spain with high consumer awareness and high customer service
ratings. The growing sliced-bread markets in Spain and Portugal have
prompted the recently completed expansion of Bimbo's Canary Islands bakery
and the construction of a new bakery in northern Portugal, which will become
operational in the summer of 1998.
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EUROPEAN REFRIGERATED DOUGH PRODUCTS
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PRODUCTS Earthgrains' French subsidiary, Europate, S.A., operates one
refrigerated dough plant and is the only manufacturer of canned refrigerated
dough in Europe. Europate also makes rolled dough -- used to prepare foods
such as quiches and tarts.
MARKETS Europate's refrigerated dough products are sold throughout
Europe, primarily through contract packing arrangements with major
international food companies. In France, canned dough and rolled dough
products are also produced and sold under Earthgrains' CroustiPate and
HappyRoll brands.
OVERVIEW Earthgrains started Europate more than 20 years ago.
Europate's growth strategies include increasing sales of its own brands in
France, and increasing exports of canned dough to its customers throughout
Europe.
4 THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY
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U.S. BRANDS
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[COLONIAL LOGO]
[RAINBO LOGO]
[HEINER'S LOGO]
Popular white bread and bakery products with taste, freshness and value for
the whole family
[IRONKIDS LOGO]
Popular white bread for children with all the fiber and many important
nutrients of whole-wheat bread
[EARTHGRAINS LOGO]
Superpremium specialty breads, bagels and other bakery products
[GRANT'S FARM LOGO]
Premium soft variety breads
[BREAK CAKE LOGO]
Snack cakes and sweet goods
[MERICO LOGO]
Toaster pastries and a full line of refrigerated dough products, including
biscuits, dinner rolls, cinnamon rolls, cookie dough, and pie crusts
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EUROPEAN BRANDS
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[BIMBO LOGO]
Popular white breads, buns and rolls
[SILUETA LOGO]
Premium variety breads
[CROUSTIPATE LOGO]
Superpremium rolled and canned dough products made with pure butter
[BIMBOY LOGO]
Popular enriched white bread for children
[BIMBO CAO LOGO]
Snack cakes
[HAPPY ROLL LOGO]
Premium rolled and canned dough products made with margarine
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 5
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U.S. DISTRIBUTION TERRITORY AND PLANT LOCATIONS
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[MAP]
HEADQUARTERS
------------------
* St. Louis
* REFRIGERATED DOUGH PLANTS (2)
--------------------------------
(National distribution)
Carrollton, Texas
Forest Park, Georgia
* BAKERY PRODUCT PLANTS (36)
- ---------------------------------------
* California Region
CALIFORNIA
Fresno
Oakland
Sacramento
Stockton
* Southwest Region
COLORADO
Denver
Pueblo
ARIZONA
Phoenix
Tucson
NEW MEXICO
Albuquerque
* Texas Region
TEXAS
Dallas
El Paso
Harlingen
Houston
Lubbock
San Antonio
* Central Region
IOWA
Des Moines
KANSAS
Hutchinson
Wichita
OKLAHOMA
Oklahoma City
MISSOURI
Springfield
* Mid-south Region
KENTUCKY
Louisville
Owensboro
TENNESSEE
Memphis
Nashville
MISSISSIPPI
Meridian
* Southeast Region
ALABAMA
Dothan
Huntsville
Montgomery
GEORGIA
Macon
Atlanta
TENESSEE
Chattanooga
Johnson City
* Heiner's
WEST VIRGINIA
Huntington
* Diversified Product Plants
(National distribution)
Paris, Texas
Fort Payne, Alabama
Rome, Georgia
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EUROPEAN PLANT LOCATIONS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* BAKERY PRODUCT PLANTS (8)
----------------------------
SPAIN
Almansa
Antequera
Canary Islands
Granollers
Las Mercedes
Madrid
Palma
Solares
PORTUGAL
Albergaria-a-Velha
(Summer 1998)
* REFRIGERATED DOUGH PLANT
---------------------------
FRANCE
Lievin
[MAP]
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 6
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[PICTURE]
TRANSATLANTIC SYNERGY | The parallels between Earthgrains' bakery and dough
operations in Europe and in the United States increase the Company's
competitiveness in both markets. The two-way exchange of information, strategy
and operating tactics is helping all four businesses improve. | All of the
four businesses are profitable, and in healthy, growing markets. The
businesses use similar production processes, ingredients, distribution
processes, and technology. | For example, the handheld computer technology
initiated by U.S. Bakery Products is now used by Bimbo, S.A., in Spain. And
because the Spanish and Portuguese sliced-bread market is developing 20 to 30
years after the U.S. market, Bimbo is able to apply lessons learned in the
United States. Similarly, U.S. Bakery has adopted techniques used in Spain
to reduce selling expenses caused by seasonal volume fluctuations.
[PHOTO]
CHRIS HOLLOWAY, ROUTE SALES REPRESENTATIVE, ST. LOUIS
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 7
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BUILDING BETTER BAGELS AND JUMBO CINNAMON ROLLS
We refer to the operations in our 44,000-squarefoot R&D Center in St. Louis as
"little r and Big D." That's because our focus is on the development of
products that will have a positive impact on the bottom line. Our new Earth
Grains brand shelf-stable bagels is one example. Our R&D specialists were
challenged to "build a better bagel" -- one that would not only taste great but
would also retain its freshness longer without refrigeration. Mission
accomplished. Since being rolled out across the entire Earthgrains market
area, the bagels have captured more than 15 percent of the market, and our
share is still growing. Another big product accomplishment was the fast
development of Jumbos, our 3-inch-diameter canned cinnamon rolls and biscuits,
to meet the needs of our refrigerated dough retail customers.
[PHOTO]
8 THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY
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RECIPE for SUCCESS
APPETITE for GROWTH
[PHOTO]
A fresh beginning has turned into a year of achievement for The Earthgrains
Company and success for its shareholders. Earthgrains heads into the second
year of its independence in a healthy position to further improve and grow as
a leading provider of foods made from grain in the United States and Europe.
Top brands, quality consumer products, superior customer service, operational
efficiencies, and employee satisfaction have been integral to the Company's
turnaround. Continuous improvement in each of these areas is critical for
Earthgrains' future success. In fiscal 1997, Earthgrains improved margins
and revenues in all four of its businesses. The Company's focus on
improving profitability -- both for Earthgrains and for its customers -- and
the flexibility of a strong balance sheet have put Earthgrains in position to
take advantage of opportunities in a consolidating U.S. baking industry and
to continue to build Company value.
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 9
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STRATEGY: Offering quality, value and variety of products to consumers
Quality, Value and Variety
Consumers have embraced the superior nutritional qualities of foods
made from grains. Healthy diets call for steady consumption of staples such
as white and variety wheat breads. In addition, consumers want premium breads
and rolls that are rich in texture and taste -- which is consistent with
Earthgrains' efforts to introduce more high-quality, higher-margin products.
Earthgrains' bread brands in America and Europe are some of the
strongest in the baking industry. Domestically, brands such as IronKids(R),
Colonial(TM), Rainbo(R), Heiner's(TM), Earth Grains(R) and Grant's Farm(TM)
give Earthgrains market share leadership in its territory, which includes
roughly a third of the nation's population.
Brand building continues through the introduction of high-quality,
value-added products. These include shelf-stable bagels and Harvest Top(TM)
superpremium breads, both marketed under the Earth Grains brand name; and Old
Family Recipe(TM), a home-style bread made with granulated sugar and milk,
marketed under the Colonial and Rainbo brands.
In Europe, the Company's bakery brands, including Bimbo and Silueta,
hold a commanding market leadership position for bread and buns in Spain --
almost 60 percent, which is more than twice the market share of the nearest
competitor. Bimbo, S.A., created the American-style sliced-bread market in
Spain. Just five years after entering Portugal, Bimbo holds more than a
fifth of that market, second overall in market share. Line extensions and
new products, such as the premium Boutique de Bimbo bread and new Silueta
brand whole-wheat varieties, are driving sales in the growing sliced-bread
market in Spain and Portugal.
In its refrigerated dough businesses, Earthgrains is focused on
operational excellence. Earthgrains is one of only two refrigerated dough
producers in the United States. It is the only producer of canned
refrigerated dough in Europe. The Company serves the U.S. market primarily
through store-brand products and its Merico brand. Through operational
excellence, Earthgrains provides customers with proven products that taste as
good as or better than the branded competitor's products, and it does so
without the added costs associated with marketing and new-product
introductions. In the last year, Earthgrains was able to quickly roll out
3-inch biscuits and cinnamon rolls, called Jumbos, in the United States after
the branded leader introduced this new category of larger products. More
products are nearing rollout.
Earthgrains' European refrigerated dough subsidiary, Europate, S.A.,
distributes its own line of products under the CroustiPate and HappyRoll
brands in France. The Company also produces canned refrigerated dough
products for other multinational food companies throughout Europe.
[PHOTO]
BRAND LEADERSHIP
Earthgrains is No. 1 or No. 2 in 16 of its 19 U.S. Bakery Products sales
zones. Strong brands such as IronKids, Colonial, Rainbo, Heiner's, Earth
Grains and Grant's Farm give Earthgrains the market share leadership in its
total sales territory.
[PHOTO]
THE NAME IN SPAIN IS BIMBO
In Spain, the name Bimbo is almost synonymous with American-style sliced
sandwich bread. Branded products account for more than 90 percent of our
sales in Spain. Increased marketing initiatives, product-line extensions, and
new products will play a significant part in continued profitable growth.
10 THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY
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[PHOTO]
PUMPING UP SALES WITH IRONKIDS IronKids bread, a white bread that appeals
to children's tastes, is a brand builder and a body builder. It has all the
fiber and many of the important nutrients of whole-wheat bread. A longtime
creative marketing campaign -- including the staging of popular triathlons for
children, product support through commercials, sponsorship of the 1996 Summer
Olympics in Atlanta, and the IronKids Internet web site (www.ironkids.com) --
has made IronKids one of the leading brands in the Earthgrains market area
since its introduction in 1989.
[PHOTO]
EMPLOYEES DRIVE OPPORTUNITIES The success of The Earthgrains Company is
dependent on employees and their commitment to the Company's vision and
business mission. Earthgrains uses a Total Quality Commitment (TQC) team
approach to problem-solving. The Company encourages its employees at all
levels to make improvements and increase competitiveness. Earthgrains has also
increased the training offered to employees -- particularly in problem-solving,
communications, and statistical analysis. Plant employees oversee product
quality by using Quality Control Points, a TQC team procedure to improve
product consistency and cost efficiencies.
Veronica Gonzalez of the Carrollton, Texas, refrigerated dough plant checks
the weight of Jumbos biscuits.
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 11
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STRATEGY: Enhancing customer satisfaction
Valued Customers, Valued Partners
In America and Europe, Earthgrains is forging innovative partnerships.
The Company is seeking more customer feedback and is conducting more research
to achieve that end. New opportunities are being discovered -- and seized.
To get closer to customers and their needs, U.S. Bakery Products reorganized
its management last year, moving six executives from corporate headquarters
into the field. This management structure is better aligned with the
regional nature of both the baking industry and the retail grocery business.
The result has been sales and baking operations that are better coordinated
to meet customer needs.
Information and data analysis are critical to customer partnerships.
Earthgrains is making a significant investment in technology to serve
customers better, to improve quality, and to lower costs. For example, the
latest handheld computer technology will help Earthgrains put the right
product in the right place at the right time for customers. Business
decisions by retail grocers are increasingly driven by data, and Earthgrains
is a leader in investing in technology to analyze information. Innovative
customer partnerships will set Earthgrains apart from the competition.
Technology is also playing an integral role in category management efforts
with retailers -- another way to grow sales and margins for both the Company
and its customers.
[MAP]
Last year, U.S. Bakery Products reorganized its management into a regional
operating structure. The new system has resulted in better coordination of
sales and baking operations to meet customer needs.
[PHOTO]
A KEY INGREDIENT: TECHNOLOGY Earthgrains is investing in technology and
computer software applications to hone its strategic decision making, to help
customers sell product, to track and analyze sales data, and to improve
business efficiency. In addition to updating handheld computer software for
delivery route drivers, our major initiatives include category management
programs, electronic partnerships with customers, and incorporation of business
application software by SAP (Systems, Applications and Products in Data
Processing). Through category management, Earthgrains is actively working
with several customers to analyze how to stock bread shelves to enhance
consumer satisfaction, and to maximize returns. Our objective is to increase
sales and margins above industry averages for both Earthgrains and retailers.
We use our computer technology and database systems to analyze product mix,
bread rack size and layout, and a store's local demographic data to determine
the best way to sell bakery products. The use of SAP business application
software has significantly reduced Earthgrains' accounts payable processing
costs and improved its working capital management. U.S. Refrigerated Dough
products analyzed SAP-generated information and data to streamline pricing
schedules and focus on operational excellence. SAP will continue to help
Earthgrains increase its return on information.
12 THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY
15
TAKING BREAD COSTS OUT OF THE OVEN
Earthgrains' $4.2 million plant modernization in Albuquerque, N.M., is an
example of disciplined capital spending with high return on investment. A
new oven, state-of-the-art makeup equipment, and substantial plant
infrastructure improvements have increased speed, quality, and production
flexibility. With the improvements, the plant can meet growing bread demand
across New Mexico. A second, less-efficient plant in the state has been
closed. Revenues are up, and costs are down. That makes the Albuquerque
project an improvement that pays for itself.
[PHOTO]
Albuquerque, N.M., bakery employee Sylvia Moliner prepares buns for
packaging.
U.S. Refrigerated Dough Products significantly improved customer
service by using a new sales information software system to analyze its
performance. The result will be improved product mix on customers' shelves,
the simplification of promotional pricing schedules, and improved
cost-effectiveness.
STRATEGY: Reducing and controlling costs
Cost Improvements Boost Margins
Earthgrains made significant cost improvements in its first year, and
more are planned for fiscal 1998. Cost reductions have played a major part
in improving margins. Earthgrains will continue to look for opportunities to
rationalize capacity within its system and to make other improvements that
lead to better quality and lower costs.
Several U.S. Bakery Products initiatives resulted in reduced costs.
These included reduction of ingredient waste, reduced workers' compensation
costs through improved safety performance, better production line efficiency,
baking efficiency improvements through reciprocal baking between plants, and
reduction of stale returns.
For better efficiency within its system, Earthgrains closed the
Indianapolis, Ind., dough plant and is expanding operations at its
Carrollton, Texas, dough plant. Bakery production at Earthgrains' Augusta,
Ga., plant was transferred to the more modern Atlanta bakery.
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 13
16
The Roswell, N.M., bakery was also closed. Its production transferred to the
expanded Albuquerque, N.M., bakery. Customer-service levels and revenues were
maintained or enhanced in each case.
In Europe, Bimbo re-engineered its operations to reduce administrative
costs and increase efficiencies. Europate has efforts under way to reduce
ingredient costs and improve efficiencies for refrigerated dough operations.
Earthgrains began to implement a new financial information software
system in 1996. The benefits include reduced accounts payable processing
costs and improved working capital management.
STRATEGY: Taking advantage of industry consolidation opportunities
Industry Consolidation Continues
Earthgrains is active in industry consolidation, using its strong
balance sheet to take advantage of opportunities to build brands, to improve
margins, to rationalize capacity, to lower costs, and to enhance shareholder
value. Earthgrains made several moves in fiscal 1997 to strengthen its
position in existing territories and to expand into a contiguous market.
In December 1996, Earthgrains bought Heiner's Bakery, Inc. of
Huntington, W.Va., bringing a new market-leading fresh-bread brand into its
group, along with an opportunity to introduce Earthgrains' premium bread
products into a new territory.
[PHOTO]
Through supply and licensing agreements, Earthgrains was able to help
rationalize capacity and improve efficiency in the U.S. baking industry. In
June 1996, Earthgrains assumed the production, distribution and marketing of
the Interstate Bakeries Corp. (IBC) bread brands in Texas under a licensing
agreement. IBC closed its Dallas bakery and took ownership of Earthgrains'
Roanoke, Va., bakery, where it assumed production, distribution and marketing
of Earthgrains' brands in Virginia.
In April 1996, Earthgrains entered into a supply agreement with
Jitney-Jungle Stores of America, Inc., to supply more than 100 of that
retailer's grocery stores in Mississippi and five other Southern states with
our brands and Jitney-Jungle store-brand bread, buns and snack cakes.
Earthgrains absorbed the added production into its Meridian, Miss., bakery, and
Jitney-Jungle was able to close its bakery.
Moving Forward
The Earthgrains Company continues to focus on the factors driving its
success -- product quality, value and variety; superior customer service;
information technology; efficient operations; participation in industry
consolidation; and a dedicated work force aligned with shareholder interests.
The result is a profitable company growing in value.
[PHOTO]
UNIQUE DOUGH
Europate, S.A., is the only European producer of canned dough products. Our
CroustiPate brand's products are uniquely designed to meet French consumer
tastes for flaky and short-crust dough.
ACQUIRING A BIGGER BREAD BASKET
When Heiner's Bakery of Huntington, W.Va., went up for sale in mid-1996,
Earthgrains took note -- and took action. Heiner's had an enviable market
share (42 percent) in a contiguous territory to Earthgrains' markets; it
marketed strictly branded breads; and it would add to the Earthgrains bottom
line almost immediately.
As an independent company, Earthgrains had the flexibility to quickly
assess the opportunity and was nimble enough to bring Heiner's into the
Earthgrains' fold within three months. Heiner's brand breads continue to
lead the market in West Virginia, southeastern Ohio and northeastern
Kentucky. And Earthgrains is introducing complementary products -- IronKids
bread and Earth Grains brand superpremium products -- a move that will make
this market even more profitable.
14 THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY
17
[PHOTO]
DEMAND DRIVES PRODUCTION EXPANSION IN SPAIN, PORTUGAL
In Spain, the Bimbo name is synonymous with American-style packaged sliced
bread. Bimbo, S.A., created the market for sliced white bread with its Bimbo
brand. Bimbo also created the market for sliced wheat variety bread with its
Silueta brand. The brands lead their categories, owning 55 percent and 65
percent market shares, respectively. Bimbo has eight bakeries in Spain
running almost at full capacity. Bimbo's plant in Spain's Canary Islands,
built just four years ago, doubled its capacity this year through an
expansion. A new plant under construction in northern Portugal will be
operational in the summer of 1998.
SAFETY IN NUMBERS: EMPLOYEE TEAMS SUCCEED
Safety is a long-term commitment at Earthgrains. Lost-work-time injuries are
down more than 50 percent over the last three years. In 1996, 23 of our 38
U.S. plants had perfect safety records -- no lost-time injuries. Our
Stockton, Calif., bakery employees have gone four years without a lost-time
injury, which has boosted morale and reduced that bakery's workers'
compensation costs by more than 80 percent. The new emphasis on safety
began when Earthgrains introduced the Total Quality Commitment management
approach at all of its plants. Employees are now directly involved in
solving problems. The Stockton safety team employees helped design and
implement new procedures and hazard controls that have led to record safety
achievements. TQC is used to drive other improvements as well, such as
minimizing stale and ingredient waste.
[PHOTO]
Stockton, Calif., bakery safety team members, clockwise from left, Lynn
Wright, George Lichty, Steve Horner, Don Helsel and Oscar Rodriguez.
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 15
18
Financial Table of Contents
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pro Forma Financial Information 17
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Results of Operations and Financial Condition 18
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated Balance Sheets 22
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated Statements of Earnings 23
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows 24
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity 25
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements 26
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
Responsibility for Financial Statements and
Report of Independent Accountants 38
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
Five-Year Financial Highlights 39
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
Officers of The Earthgrains Company
and Its Principal Subsidiaries 40
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
Board of Directors and Corporate Information 41
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements
Matters discussed in this Annual Report (particularly in Management's
Discussion and Analysis and the Letter to Shareholders), contain forward-
looking information, as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act
of 1995. All such forward-looking information in this report involves
risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to, variations in income
levels of consumers, fluctuations in currency exchange rates for the Spanish
peseta and French franc versus the U.S. dollar, the costs of raw materials,
the ability of the Company to realize projected savings from productivity and
product quality improvements, legal proceedings to which the Company may
become a party, and other risks indicated in filings by the Company with the
Securities and Exchange Commission.
16 THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY
19
Pro Forma Financial Information
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Statements of earnings are presented below for the year ended March 25, 1997,
and a comparable 52-week period ended March 26, 1996. Unaudited pro forma
adjustments have been made to the unaudited historical financial statement to
reflect the effect of the Distribution on a comparable fiscal 1996.
The resulting pro forma income statement produces more meaningful
comparisons with actual results for fiscal 1997; however, the pro forma
information is not necessarily indicative of results that would have occurred
if the Company had been an independent Company during the comparable year-ago
period for 1996.
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For the Years Ended March 25 and March 26
--------------------------------------------------------
Historical Pro Forma Pro Forma
(In millions, except per share data) 1997 1996 Adjustments <Fa> 1996
=====================================================================================================================
(Unaudited) (Unaudited) (Unaudited)
Sales $1,662.6 $1,660.5 $ -- $1,660.5
Cost of products sold 988.8 1,037.4 3.5 1,040.9
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gross profit 673.8 623.1 (3.5) 619.6
Marketing, distribution and administrative expenses 633.5 632.6 19.8 652.4
Provision for restructuring and consolidation, net 12.7 3.0 -- 3.0
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating income (loss) 27.6 (12.5) (23.3) (35.8)
Interest expense (6.3) (1.6) (5.4) (7.0)
Other income, net 1.4 3.8 -- 3.8
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income (loss) before income taxes 22.7 (10.3) (28.7) (39.0)
Provision (benefit) for income taxes 6.5 1.2 (10.3) (9.1)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net income (loss) $ 16.2 $ (11.5) $(18.4) $ (29.9)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding 10.1 10.2
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Earnings (loss) per share $ 1.60 <Fb> $ (2.93) <Fc><Fd>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<FN>
<Fa> The pro forma adjustments represent: (1) estimates of incremental costs
associated with being an independent public company; (2) the
transfer of the prepaid pension asset to Anheuser-Busch; (3)
interest expense on incremental debt and working capital
requirements; and (4) the tax effect of such adjustments.
<Fb> Excluding the $12.7 million provision for restructuring and $5.3 million
in Spanish tax incentives and credits, earnings for the current
fiscal year were $1.86 per share.
<Fc> Excluding the $3.0 million provision for restructuring, $7.8 million for
the Spanish work force reduction program and $7.6 for a legal
settlement and other non-recurring costs, earnings performance for
the pro forma comparable fiscal 1996 was $1.80 loss per share.
<Fd> Earnings per share for the comparable period presented were computed
using the weighted average shares of Anheuser-Busch common stock
outstanding during the period, adjusted for a 1-to-25 distribution
ratio.
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 17
20
Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Results of Operations and Financial Condition
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INTRODUCTION
- ------------
A number of significant factors, which are discussed below, affected the
consolidated results of operations, financial condition and liquidity of
Earthgrains during the current fiscal year ended March 25, 1997, the 12-week
transition period ended March 26, 1996, and the two fiscal years ended
January 2, 1996, and January 3, 1995. This discussion should be read in
conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and notes thereto for
such periods included elsewhere in this report. Effective at the close of
business on March 26, 1996 (the Distribution Date), shares of the Company
were distributed to shareholders of Anheuser-Busch Common Stock, based upon a
ratio of 1-to-25. Following the distribution, the Company began operations
as an independent, publicly held company. Accordingly, since the Company was
a wholly-owned subsidiary of Anheuser-Busch during the periods presented
prior to the current fiscal year, these financial statements may not
necessarily reflect the consolidated results of operations or financial
position of the Company or what the results of operations would have been if
the Company had been an independent public company during those periods.
OVERVIEW AND OUTLOOK
- --------------------
Earthgrains operates in the packaged bakery products industry, which is
highly competitive and price-sensitive. Commodity costs represent
approximately 25-30% of the Company's cost of products sold. U.S. commodity
market prices are subject to price volatility and remain relatively high
although they have decreased in the second half of fiscal 1997 from reaching
record levels in the first half of the year and during the 1996 transition
period. Additionally, the packaged bakery products industry continues to be
in a condition of excess capacity and underutilization.
Earthgrains' first fiscal year results as an independent company
demonstrate accomplishments from elements of a fundamental strategy of
improving revenues, enhancing cost-effectiveness, gaining efficiencies and
taking advantage of industry consolidation. This focus, along with emphasis
on providing more new and better-quality products and services to customers,
has enabled Earthgrains to improve revenues and operating margins, more than
offsetting the increased costs associated with being a stand-alone public
entity.
A portion of these benefits are the result of the Company's
restructuring and consolidation program aimed at reducing excess capacity and
withdrawal from unprofitable markets and lower-margin accounts. The plant
consolidations coupled with the reorganization of field management and sales
groups have enabled the necessary focus on operating efficiency and product
quality while strengthening customer partnering in core business operations.
These changes have also concentrated resources in markets with the greatest
growth opportunities and on products that offer higher margins. Benefits of
the restructuring and consolidation program are expected to continue into the
upcoming year. While strong progress has been demonstrated in improving
underlying performance, continuing efforts will be made to maximize
manufacturing, distribution and administrative efficiencies and to strive for
even better operating results.
Taking advantage of acquisition opportunities in its core fresh
baked-goods business line is key to enhancing the Company's ability to
compete successfully in this industry. The acquisition of Heiner's Bakery,
Inc. as of November 30, 1996, which contributed to earnings from the outset,
signifies the Company's intent to play an active role in this process. The
Company will continue to seek opportunities to participate in industry
consolidation that are a good fit with its strategy to enhance revenues,
profitability and return on capital.
RESTRUCTURING AND CONSOLIDATION PROVISIONS
- ------------------------------------------
Beginning in late 1993, the Company established a restructuring and
consolidation program designed to reduce costs and maximize operating
efficiencies. The Company has recorded the following provisions relating to
restructuring and consolidation programs:
* A $12.7 million charge in fiscal 1997 primarily covering expenses in
conjunction with closing one bakery and one refrigerated dough plant
* A $27.5 million charge in fiscal 1995 covering estimated expenses
arising from the consolidation of certain domestic bakery operations
* A $114.6 million charge in fiscal 1993 covering the cost of Anheuser-
Busch's groupwide enhanced retirement, restructuring and relocation
program
The Company believes improvements in the current fiscal year operating
results reflect benefits achieved through the restructuring and consolidation
program described above. Benefits of the recent charge are expected to carry
into the upcoming year enabling further realization of operating efficiencies
and improved financial performance. Although no major future restructurings
18 THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY
21
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
are anticipated at this time, the Company will continue to review its
operations for opportunities to improve efficiencies. See Note 4 to the
Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information concerning the
details of the Company's restructuring charges, including a reconciliation of
the balance sheet reserve relating thereto.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
- ---------------------
Fiscal Year 1997 Compared to Fiscal Year 1995
Net sales for the fiscal year ended March 25, 1997, of $1,662.6 million
were consistent with sales of $1,664.6 for the comparable 52-week period
ended January 2, 1996 (fiscal 1995). The decrease in sales attributed to the
closing or sale of underperforming and noncore businesses as part of the
planned consolidation and restructuring was partially offset by the effect of
price increases taken early in the year and favorable product mix shift.
Sales contributed through the acquisition of Heiner's Bakery, Inc. as of
November 30, 1996, were more than offset by the unfavorable impact of foreign
exchange rates near the end of the year. After adjustment for the closed or
sold facilities in both periods presented, sales for fiscal 1997 increased by
$88.8 million or 5.6%, represented across fresh bakery and refrigerated dough
operations both domestically and internationally.
Gross margins increased to 40.5% in the current year from 37.8% in
fiscal 1995. Profit margin improvements were experienced by domestic fresh
bakery operations and both international bakery and refrigerated dough
operations. Margins for domestic refrigerated dough operations were down
slightly from fiscal 1995. These margin improvements can be attributed to
the achieved price increases, benefits of the restructuring and consolidation
process, and improved operating efficiencies. Additionally, flour costs
which began to increase dramatically in the last half of fiscal 1995 have
decreased, thereby resulting in improved margins from 1995.
Agricultural commodity costs represented 25-30% of cost of products
sold during the 1997 fiscal year, which is consistent with prior years.
Costs of products sold includes agricultural commodities whose prices are
influenced by weather conditions, government regulations and economic
conditions. The Company utilized futures contracts or options to hedge
approximately 45-55% of such agricultural commodity costs or 11-17% of cost
of products sold during the 1997 fiscal year. As of March 25, 1997, the
amount of the Company's aggregate obligation to purchase commodities under
such contracts was $11.4 million.
Marketing, distribution and administrative expenses increased by $6.0
million in 1997 and from 37.7% to 38.1% on a percentage of sales basis. The
elimination of costs through the closing or sale of facilities and the effect
of the charge for the Spanish work force reduction program reflected in 1995
were more than offset by the costs of operating as a stand-alone public
company.
The prior-year charge of $27.5 million for restructuring and
consolidation was netted with an $18.4 million gain on the sale of
businesses, resulting in the net charge of $9.1 million. Excluding the
current-year charge of $12.7 million and the 1995 net charge of $9.1 million
to consolidate certain inefficient facilities, operating income for fiscal
1997 increased $37.9 million compared to the prior year. This significant
increase in operating results reflects benefits from our consolidation and
restructuring program and our continued focus on cost-effectiveness combined
with an improvement in product mix.
The lower effective tax rate for fiscal 1997 is a direct result of $5.3
million in one-time Spanish tax incentives and credits associated principally
with investments made in the Canary Islands. The Company substantially
completed the expansion of its Canary Islands bakery during the current year.
Typically, the Company's effective income tax rate is higher primarily due to
the relative impact of the nondeductible fixed goodwill amortization on the
respective earnings level.
Net earnings for fiscal 1997 were $16.2 million or $1.60 per share,
compared to a loss of $6.6 million, or a $0.65 loss per share, computed on
the basis of pro forma average shares outstanding for fiscal 1995.
The historical statement of earnings for the year-ago period does not
reflect interest expense related to long-term debt assumed by the Company
upon the distribution at March 26, 1996, and certain administrative expenses
associated with operating as an independent, stand-alone company. For a
presentation of the potential effect these items and events might have had on
the Company's results for a comparable year-ago fiscal year ended March 26,
1996, see the unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information on page 17 of this
report.
Twelve-Week Period Ended March 26, 1996
Compared to Twelve-Week Period Ended March 28, 1995
For the 12-week period ended March 26, 1996, sales declined $4.1
million or 1.1% from the comparable prior year period. The decrease can be
attributed to the planned consolidation and restructuring that resulted in
the closing or sale of underperforming and noncore businesses. This decrease
in sales was partially offset by
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 19
22
Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Results of Operations and Financial Condition
(CONTINUED)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
increased volume in refrigerated dough products, a $4.9 million increase in
international sales and a $5.6 million favorable effect of exchange-rate
fluctuations. After adjustment for the closed or sold facilities in both
periods presented, sales increased by $19.8 million.
Gross margins for the March 1996 period of 37.8% compared unfavorably
to the prior-year period's 39.2%. As expected, margins were adversely
affected by the dramatic increases in commodity prices for ingredients,
specifically flour costs, which increased to record levels.
The increase in marketing, distribution and administrative expenses to
$146.0 million from $140.9 million in the comparable period is the result of
one-time charges of $7.6 million, including $6.3 million related to a
settlement agreement in a case that involved alleged price-fixing and
antitrust violations in the state of Texas.
In the comparable period, $6.1 million of the fiscal 1995 provision for
restructuring and consolidation was recorded to cover estimated expenses
arising from the consolidation of certain domestic bakery operations
identified at that date.
The variance in the effective income-tax rate reflects the relative
impact of the nondeductible fixed goodwill amortization on the respective
earnings levels.
As a result of the March 1996 charge for the legal settlement and other
factors discussed above, the Company incurred a loss of $5.1 million, or
$0.50 per share, computed on the basis of pro forma average shares
outstanding, compared to a loss of $0.3 million, or $0.03 per share in the
prior year's comparable period.
Fiscal Year 1995 Compared to Fiscal Year 1994
Net sales in 1995 decreased $55.9 million or 3.2% compared to the same
period in the prior year. Domestic fresh baked-goods sales decreased by
$89.6 million in part as a result of the planned consolidation and
restructuring, including the withdrawal from underperforming territories.
Lower domestic fresh baked-goods volume was partially offset by higher net
prices, higher international sales of $32.5 million and a $13.7 million
favorable effect of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations. Excluding
the sales of the closed facilities and divested businesses, foreign currency
exchange-rate fluctuations and the extra week in the 1994 fiscal year, net
sales decreased $6.5 million on a comparable basis.
Gross profit decreased $19.6 million or 3.0% versus fiscal 1994. As a
percentage of sales, gross profit remained constant at 37.8%. Margins for
the 1995 fiscal year would have improved but were adversely affected by the
dramatic increases in commodity prices for ingredients in the last half of
the year.
Marketing, distribution, and administrative expenses in 1995 increased
$3.6 million compared to the prior year. As a percent of sales, these
expenses increased to 37.7% in 1995 versus 36.3% in 1994, as the reduction in
volume-related selling expenses was more than offset by increases in other
costs, including the Spanish work force reduction program and domestic
employee relocation expenses.
Excluding the 1995 charge of $27.5 million to consolidate certain
inefficient domestic bakery facilities, operating income for the 1995 fiscal
year decreased $23.2 million compared to the prior year. This decrease in
operating results was primarily attributable to the impact of commodity
prices for ingredients and the work force reduction in Spain.
The increase in the effective tax rate primarily reflects the relative
effect of the nondeductible fixed goodwill amortization on a reduced earnings
level.
Fiscal Year 1994 Compared to Fiscal Year 1993
Net sales in 1994 decreased $20.1 million or 1.2%, primarily due to the
sale in December 1993 of Eagle Crest Foods, Inc. (Eagle Crest), a frozen
Mexican foods operation. Sales for Eagle Crest in 1993 amounted to $39.6
million, which more than offset the additional week in fiscal 1994. A new
contract packing agreement and full-year effects of prior-year product
introductions contributed to the $28.1 million or 11.8% increase in
refrigerated dough products sales. Adverse changes in foreign currency
exchange rates negatively affected sales in 1994 by $14.0 million. Excluding
the effects of Eagle Crest, foreign currency exchange-rate fluctuations and
the extra week in fiscal 1994, 1994 net sales increased $7.5 million over
1993 on a comparable basis.
Gross profit of $649.5 million in 1994 represented a decrease of 7.4%
from the prior year. As a percentage of net sales, gross profit in 1994 was
37.8% compared with 40.3% in 1993. The decrease was principally attributable
to the domestic bakery operations. In the early stages of the realignment
and consolidation program, these operations experienced manufacturing
inefficiencies and reduced organizational effectiveness due to changes in
field operating management. In addition, domestic bakery operating margins
declined during the year due to a 6% increase in ingredient costs and
increased promotional allowances for fresh baked goods in many market areas.
Marketing, distribution and administrative expenses rose slightly as a
percentage of net sales -- 36.3% in 1994 versus 35.4% in 1993.
As a result of the effects noted above, operating income for 1994 was
$25.6 million, a decrease of
20 THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY
23
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$58.7 million versus 1993, excluding the effect of the 1993 restructuring
charge.
The increase in the effective tax rate primarily reflects the relative
effect of the nondeductible fixed goodwill amortization on a reduced earnings
level.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
- -------------------------------
Concurrent with the Distribution on March 26, 1996, the Company used
borrowings under a $215 million unsecured revolving credit facility with
several financial institutions to pay $80 million to Anheuser-Busch as a
partial payment of its net intercompany payable, to fund working capital
needs and for general corporate purposes. Upon the effective date of the
distribution, the remaining intercompany payables and receivables between the
Company and Anheuser-Busch were contributed to the capital of the Company. A
separate unsecured $15 million committed line of credit is also maintained
for servicing funding requirements. Prior to the Distribution, as a
subsidiary, the Company obtained funds for its capital needs, including
working capital, from Anheuser-Busch, primarily through a non-interest
bearing intercompany account.
The Company's primary source of liquidity is cash flow from operations,
which was $101.8 million for the current fiscal year ended March 25, 1997.
Improved operating efficiencies and pricing initiatives have contributed to
the strong cash flows from operations for the current year. Net working
capital, excluding cash and cash equivalents, was $37.5 million at March 25,
1997, up slightly from $35.1 million a year ago.
The funding for the acquisition of Heiner's, which was completed in the
third quarter of fiscal 1997, was sourced through the existing credit
agreement and cash generated from operations. The Company's primary routine
cash requirements will continue to consist of funding capital expenditures
and interest payments pursuant to the credit facility. The Company invested
$71.2 million in capital expenditures during the current fiscal year and
expects to fund capital investments of approximately $90 million in the
upcoming year.
The consolidated capital expenditure plan for fiscal 1998 includes a
proposal recently approved by the Board of Directors to build a bakery in
northern Portugal. This new facility will allow the Spanish operations to
meet increased demand for baked goods and expand their current market in
Portugal and northwest Spain. Funding for the plant will be provided through
cash from the Spanish operations. Other planned capital projects include
expansion of the refrigerated dough operations in Carrollton, Texas, to
facilitate incorporation of the production from the recently closed
Indianapolis plant and a new bagel production line for the Fort Payne, Ala.,
plant. The Company will also continue ongoing investments in systems
technology along with modernization and expansion plans for various domestic
and international bakeries.
Effective April 30, 1997, the Company renegotiated the $215 million
Credit Facility to $225 million with an option to increase the available line
to $300 million. Additionally, the maturity date on the borrowings was
extended to April 2002 and certain covenants were modified slightly to enable
increased debt capacity. On both a short-term and long-term basis,
management believes that its cash flows from operations, together with its
available borrowings under the Credit Facility, will provide it with
sufficient resources to meet its seasonal working capital needs, to finance
its projected capital expenditures, and to meet its foreseeable liquidity
requirements.
ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS
- ---------------------
The operations of Earthgrains, like those of similar businesses, are subject
to various Federal, state and local laws and regulations with respect to
environmental matters, including air and water quality, underground
fuel-storage tanks, and other regulations intended to protect public health
and the environment. Earthgrains has been identified as a potentially
responsible party ("PRP") at certain locations under the Comprehensive
Environmental Responses, Compensation and Liability Act, and may be required
to share in the cost of cleanup with respect to two sites. While it is
difficult to quantify with certainty the financial impact of actions related
to environmental matters, based on the information currently available it is
management's opinion that the ultimate liability arising from such matters
taking into consideration established reserves should not have a material
effect on Earthgrains' results of operations or financial position.
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 21
24
Consolidated Balance Sheets
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 25, March 26,
(In millions, except share data) 1997 1996
==============================================================================
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 43.1 $ 38.9
Accounts receivable, net 141.5 135.9
Inventories, net 66.4 68.0
Deferred income taxes 29.9 27.3
Other current assets 15.7 15.4
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total current assets 296.6 285.5
Other assets 28.8 38.6
Goodwill, net 140.0 130.3
Plant and equipment, net 706.7 723.2
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total assets $1,172.1 $1,177.6
==============================================================================
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $ 121.4 $ 98.1
Accrued salaries, wages and benefits 46.6 48.6
Accrual for restructuring and consolidation 15.4 15.4
Other current liabilities 32.6 49.4
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total current liabilities 216.0 211.5
Postretirement benefits 118.8 123.1
Long-term debt 103.0 92.6
Deferred income taxes 103.8 99.5
Other noncurrent liabilities 48.1 68.8
Commitments and contingencies -- --
Shareholders' equity:
Anheuser-Busch equity investment -- 582.1
Common stock, $.01 par value, 50,000,000
authorized, 10,778,050 shares issued 0.1 --
Additional paid-in capital 604.4 --
Retained earnings 14.7 --
Unearned ESOP shares (15.1) --
Unearned portion of restricted stock (4.2) --
Cumulative translation adjustment (17.5) --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholders' equity 582.4 582.1
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total liabilities and equity $1,172.1 $1,177.6
==============================================================================
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
22 THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY
25
Consolidated Statements of Earnings
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For the For the
year twelve For the years ended
ended weeks ended ---------------------
March 25, March 26, January 2, January 3,
(In millions, except per share data) 1997 1996 1996 1995<F*>
================================================================================================
Net sales $1,662.6 $ 367.7 $1,664.6 $1,720.5
Cost of products sold 988.8 228.8 1,034.7 1,071.0
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gross profit 673.8 138.9 629.9 649.5
Marketing, distribution and
administrative expenses 633.5 146.0 627.5 623.9
Provision for restructuring and
consolidation, net 12.7 -- 9.1 --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating income (loss) 27.6 (7.1) (6.7) 25.6
Other income and expenses:
Interest (expense) (6.3) (0.1) (1.9) (1.9)
Other income (expense), net 1.4 (0.1) 4.7 2.6
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income (loss) before income taxes 22.7 (7.3) (3.9) 26.3
Provision (benefit) for income taxes 6.5 (2.2) 2.7 15.0
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net income (loss) $ 16.2 $ (5.1) $ (6.6) $ 11.3
================================================================================================
Earnings per share $ 1.60
============================================================
<FN>
<F*>Fiscal year contains 53 weeks.
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 23
26
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For the For the
year twelve weeks For the years ended
ended ended -----------------------
March 25, March 26, January 2, January 3,
(In millions) 1997 1996 1996 1995<F*>
==================================================================================================================
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income (loss) $ 16.2 $ (5.1) $ (6.6) $ 11.3
Adjustments to reconcile earnings to
net cash flow provided by operations:
Depreciation and amortization 84.5 17.4 79.5 81.8
Deferred income taxes 1.7 (6.2) 2.5 20.1
Provision for restructuring and consolidation
($12.7 million, less cash payments of $0.2;
$27.5 million, less cash payments of $3.7 million) 12.5 -- 23.8 --
Gain on disposal of businesses -- -- (18.4) --
(Gain) loss on disposal of fixed assets (0.2) (0.4) 0.5 9.5
(Increase) decrease in noncash working capital (6.9) 17.1 5.6 (91.9)
Other, net (6.0) (5.3) 14.7 --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash flow from operations 101.8 17.5 101.6 30.8
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures (71.2) (22.5) (109.3) (86.4)
Acquisition (38.5) -- -- --
Proceeds from sale of property 4.5 (4.7) 31.9 1.7
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash used by investing activities (105.2) (27.2) (77.4) (84.7)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Proceeds from (payments on) long-term borrowings, net 10.4 91.1 (10.1) (0.2)
Dividends to shareholders (1.5) -- -- --
Payments on short-term borrowings (1.3) (1.6) (0.2) (4.6)
Net transactions with Anheuser-Busch -- (74.3) 5.1 35.1
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net cash provided by (used by) financing activities 7.6 15.2 (5.2) 30.3
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 4.2 5.5 19.0 (23.6)
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year 38.9 33.4 14.4 38.0
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year $ 43.1 $ 38.9 $ 33.4 $ 14.4
==================================================================================================================
<FN>
<F*>Fiscal year contains 53 weeks.
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
24 THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY
27
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders' Equity
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Addi- Anheuser-
Common Stock tional Unearned Unearned Cumulative Busch
(In millions, except ------------------ Paid-In Retained ESOP Restricted Translation Equity
share data) Shares Amount Capital Earnings Shares Stock Adjustment Investment Total
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance December 29,
1993 -- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ 636.3 $ 636.3
Net income 11.3 11.3
Translation
adjustments 1.6 1.6
Net transactions
with A-B 35.1 35.1
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance January 3,
1995 684.3 684.3
Net (loss) (6.6) (6.6)
Translation
adjustments 18.5 18.5
Net transactions
with A-B 5.1 5.1
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance January 2,
1996 701.3 701.3
Net (loss) (5.1) (5.1)
Translation
adjustments 2.0 2.0
Net transactions
with A-B (116.1) (116.1)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance March 26,
1996 582.1 582.1
Shares issued upon
distribution 10,092,133 0.1 582.0 (582.1) --
Net income 16.2 16.2
Dividends
($.15 per share) (1.5) (1.5)
Shares issued under
stock plan 166,551 5.1 (5.1) --
Amortization of
restricted stock 0.9 0.9
Shares issued to ESOP 513,114 16.8 (16.8) --
Shares allocated
under ESOP 0.3 1.7 2.0
Translation
adjustments (17.5) (17.5)
Other 6,252 0.2 0.2
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance March 25,
1997 10,778,050 $0.1 $604.4 $14.7 $(15.1) $ (4.2) $(17.5) $ -- $ 582.4
========================================================================================================================
See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 25
28
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION
- ---------------------------
Effective March 26, 1996, one share of The Earthgrains Company (the Company
or Earthgrains) $.01 par value common stock was distributed to holders of
Anheuser-Busch Companies, Inc. (Anheuser-Busch) common stock for every 25
shares of Anheuser-Busch common stock owned at the established record date
(the Distribution). At the time of the Distribution, Earthgrains began
operations as a separate publicly owned company.
The financial results presented in the financial statements for periods
prior to the current fiscal year are not necessarily indicative of results
that would have occurred if the Company had been an independent public
company during the periods presented. See unaudited Pro Forma Financial
Information on page 17 of this report for discussion and comparison of the
effect of the Distribution on the Company on a comparable year-ago fiscal
year ended March 26, 1996.
2. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES AND POLICIES
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
This summary of the Company's significant accounting principles and policies
is presented to assist in evaluating the Company's financial statements
included in this report. These principles and policies conform to generally
accepted accounting principles and are applied on a consistent basis among
years.
Principles of consolidation
These financial statements include the Company and all its
subsidiaries. All significant intercompany transactions are eliminated.
Fiscal year end
The Company has a 52- or 53-week year. Concurrent with the
Distribution, the Company changed its fiscal year end from the Tuesday
closest to December 31 to the last Tuesday in March. The change resulted in
a transition period of twelve weeks beginning January 3, 1996 and ending
March 26, 1996. The following table summarizes the periods covered in each
of the three fiscal years and in the transition period presented in these
financial statements and footnotes thereto unless otherwise stated:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
Fiscal Year/Period Period Covered
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
1997 52-week period ended March 25, 1997
1996 Transition Period 12-week period ended March 26, 1996
1995 52-week period ended January 2, 1996
1994 53-week period ended January 3, 1995
Foreign currency translation
Adjustments resulting from foreign currency transactions are recognized
in income, whereas adjustments resulting from the translation of financial
statements are reflected within equity.
Goodwill
Goodwill is amortized on a straight-line basis over a period of 40
years. Accumulated amortization as of March 25, 1997, and March 26, 1996,
was $70.6 and $65.5 million, respectively. $124.9 million of the goodwill
balance as of March 25, 1997, relates to the acquisition of the Company by
Anheuser-Busch in 1982.
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand and temporary
investments purchased with an initial maturity of three months or less.
Inventories and production costs
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market. Cost is
determined under the first-in, first-out method. Inventories include the
cost of materials, direct labor and manufacturing overhead. Obsolete or
unsaleable inventories are reflected at their estimated realizable values.
The Company hedges certain of its commodity purchases as considered necessary
to reduce the risk associated with market-price fluctuations. Gains and
losses on hedges of future commodity purchases are recognized as a component
of inventory in the same period as the related purchase transaction.
Plant and equipment
Plant and equipment is carried at cost and includes expenditures for
new facilities and expenditures that substantially increase the useful lives
of existing facilities. Maintenance, repairs and minor renewals are expensed
as incurred. When plant and equipment is retired or otherwise disposed, the
related cost and accumulated depreciation are eliminated and any gain or loss
on disposition is reflected in income or expense.
Depreciation is provided principally on the straight-line method over
the estimated useful lives of the assets, resulting in depreciation rates on
buildings ranging from 2% to 10% and on machinery and equipment ranging from
5% to 25%.
In conjunction with the acquisition of the Company by Anheuser-Busch in
1982, a portion of the purchase price was associated with reflecting the
property, plant and equipment at fair value through purchase accounting.
Additionally, the effect of the adoption of FAS No. 109
26 THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY
29
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
in fiscal 1992 was applied to these assets. Such amounts are being amortized on
a straight-line basis over 40 years. This purchase price assigned to fixed
assets amounted to $215.6 million, with related deferred taxes of $81.9 million,
at March 25, 1997.
Capitalization of interest
Interest relating to the cost of acquiring certain fixed assets is
capitalized. The capitalized interest is included as part of the cost of the
related asset and is amortized over its estimated useful life.
Income taxes
The provision for income taxes is based on the income and expense
amounts as reported in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings. Deferred
income taxes are recognized for the effect of temporary differences between
financial and tax reporting in accordance with the requirements of Statement
of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109 (FAS109).
Financial instruments with off-balance-sheet risk and concentration of credit
risk
The Company is a party to certain financial instruments with
off-balance-sheet risk incurred in the normal course of business. These
financial instruments include forward and option contracts designated as
hedges. Derivative financial instruments are used solely as hedges to manage
existing risks or exposure. The Company's exposure to credit loss in the
event of nonperformance by the counterparties to these financial instruments
(either individually or in the aggregate) is not material.
Derivative financial instruments, which are used by the Company in the
management of commodity exposures, are accounted for on an accrual basis.
Income and expense are recognized in the same category as that of the related
asset or liability.
The fair value of derivative instruments is monitored based on the
estimated amounts the Company would receive or pay to terminate the
contracts.
The Company does not have a material concentration of accounts
receivable or credit risk.
Fair value of financial instruments
As of March 25, 1997 and March 26, 1996, the fair value of long-term
debt was approximately equal to its recorded value of $103.0 million and
$92.6 million, respectively. The fair value of long-term debt was estimated
based on the quoted market values for the same or similar debt issues, or
rates currently available for debt with similar terms.
Research and development and advertising and promotional costs
Research and development and advertising and promotional costs are
expensed in the year in which these costs are incurred.
Impairment of long-lived assets
The Company reviews long-lived assets and goodwill for impairment
whenever events or changes in business circumstances indicate that the
carrying amount of the assets may not be fully recoverable. The Company
performs nondiscounted cash flow analyses to determine whether an impairment
exists. Impairment losses, if any, would be determined based on the present
value of the cash flows using discount rates that reflect the inherent risk
of the underlying business.
Systems development costs
The Company defers systems development costs when they reach
technological feasibility. Amounts deferred are amortized over a five-year
period.
Earnings per share
Earnings per share for the current fiscal year are based on the
weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the
year. Earnings per share figures have been omitted for prior periods
presented because the Company was a wholly-owned subsidiary of Anheuser-Busch
during this time. In February 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board
issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 128 (FAS 128),
"Earnings per Share." The statement, which specifies the computation,
presentation and disclosure requirements for earnings per share, is effective
as of the Company's third quarter of fiscal 1998. The adoption of FAS 128 is
not expected to have a material effect on reported earnings per share for the
Company.
Stock-based compensation
The Company accounts for employee stock options in accordance with
Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25 (APB 25), "Accounting for Stock
Issued to Employees." Under APB 25, the Company applies the intrinsic value
method of accounting and therefore does not recognize compensation expense
for options granted, because options are only granted at a price equal to
market value on the day of grant.
In October 1995, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued,
Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123 (FAS 123), "Accounting
for Stock Based Compensation," which became effective for the Company
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 27
30
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(CONTINUED)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
in the 1996 transition period. FAS 123 prescribes the recognition of
compensation expense based on the fair value of options determined on the grant
date. However, FAS 123 allows companies that currently apply APB 25 to continue
using that method. Earthgrains has therefore elected to continue applying
the intrinsic value method under APB 25. For companies that choose to
continue applying the intrinsic value method, FAS 123 requires certain pro
forma disclosures as if the fair value method had been utilized. See Note 9
for additional discussion and disclosures.
Use of estimates
In conformity with generally accepted accounting principles, the
preparation of our financial statements requires our management to make
estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in our financial
statements and accompanying notes. Although these estimates are based on our
knowledge of current events and the actions that we may undertake in the
future, they may ultimately differ from actual results.
Reclassification
Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior period financial
statements to conform with the current year presentation.
3. ACQUISITION
- -----------------
On November 30, 1996, the assets of Heiner's Bakery, Inc. of Huntington, West
Virginia, were purchased for cash. Heiner's is a privately held wholesale
manufacturer and distributor of branded bread, buns and rolls with marketing
territory throughout West Virginia and in portions of Ohio and Kentucky. The
acquisition has been accounted for using the purchase method and,
accordingly, the results of operations are included in the Consolidated
Statement of Earnings from the date of acquisition. Assets acquired were
recorded at their estimated fair market value, and the excess costs over net
tangible assets are being amortized over forty years. The acquisition
agreement contains a provision for additional payments over the two years
subsequent to the transaction date if certain minimum earnings requirements
are met. Any such amounts earned under these terms of the agreement will be
recorded as increases in the excess of the total acquisition cost over the
fair value of the net assets acquired. Had the purchase taken place on
January 4, 1995, unaudited pro forma consolidated results of operations would
have been as follows (in millions, except for per share data):
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fiscal Transition Fiscal
Year Period Year
1997 1996 1995
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net sales $1,691.1 $376.3 $1,700.7
Net income 17.7 (5.0) (5.8)
Earnings per share 1.75
Pro forma data do not purport to be indicative of the results that
would have been obtained had these events actually occurred at the beginning
of the periods presented and such data are not intended to be a projection of
future results.
4. PROVISIONS FOR RESTRUCTURING AND CONSOLIDATION, NET
- ---------------------------------------------------------
During fiscal 1995, the Company recorded a $27.5 million provision to cover
estimated costs arising from the closing of eight domestic bakery facilities.
Production was transferred to other facilities. The provision covers the
costs associated with writing off certain fixed assets, employee severance
benefits for approximately 950 employees at these facilities and other
related closing costs. The Company's fiscal 1995 provision for restructuring
and consolidation, net of $9.1 million is composed of the $27.5 million
provision for restructuring and consolidation and an $18.4 million gain on
the sale of businesses.
During fiscal 1997, the Company recorded a provision of $12.7 million
primarily in conjunction with closing one bakery and one refrigerated dough
plant to achieve further efficiencies. The provision reflects costs of
writing off certain fixed assets, employee severance benefits and other
related closing costs. Production was transferred to other facilities.
Costs for the respective year provisions are categorized as follows (in
millions):
- ------------------------------------------------------------
Fiscal Fiscal
Year Year
1997 1995
- ------------------------------------------------------------
Noncash asset write-offs $ 8.8 $19.5
Other, primarily severance 3.9 8.0
- ------------------------------------------------------------
$12.7 $27.5
============================================================
28 THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY
31
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A reconciliation of activity with respect to the Company's fiscal year
1995 and 1997 provisions for restructuring and consolidation of domestic
operations is as follows (in millions):
- ------------------------------------------------------------
Provision, 1995 $ 27.5
Noncash asset write-offs (5.9)
Cash payments associated with severance (3.4)
Other miscellaneous items, net (0.3)
- ------------------------------------------------------------
Ending balance, January 2, 1996 17.9
Noncash asset write-offs (0.3)
Cash payments associated with severance (1.9)
Other miscellaneous items, net (0.3)
- ------------------------------------------------------------
Ending balance, March 26, 1996 15.4
Provision, 1997 12.7
Noncash asset write-offs (11.5)
Cash payments associated with severance (1.1)
Other miscellaneous items, net (0.1)
- ------------------------------------------------------------
Ending balance, March 25, 1997 $ 15.4
============================================================
5. LONG-TERM DEBT
- --------------------
Long-term debt is as follows as of (in millions):
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
March 25, March 26,
1997 1996
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
Revolving Credit Facility due 2001 $100.5 $90.1
Note Payable, 9.375%, due 1998 1.0 1.0
Industrial Development Bonds
9.5%, due 2001 1.5 1.5
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
103.0 92.6
Less current portion -- --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
$103.0 $92.6
==================================================================
Concurrent with the Distribution, the Company used borrowings under a
$215 million unsecured revolving credit facility (the Credit Facility) with
several financial institutions to pay $80 million to Anheuser-Busch as a
settlement on its net intercompany payable, to fund working capital needs and
for general corporate purposes. The credit agreement has a maturity date of
March 20, 2001, and interest on the borrowings is based on the rate for
Eurodollar deposits. The credit facility also contains customary covenants,
including maintenance of an interest coverage ratio and certain other
restrictions. As of March 25, 1997, $37.3 million in letters of credit were
also outstanding under this credit facility, principally related to
self-insurance requirements. A separate $15 million unsecured committed line
of credit is also maintained for servicing funding requirements.
6. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
- --------------------------------
The following describes transactions with Anheuser-Busch prior to the
Distribution on March 26, 1996. Anheuser-Busch utilized a centralized cash
management system to finance its domestic operations. Cash deposits from the
Company were transferred to Anheuser-Busch on a daily basis and
Anheuser-Busch funded the Company's disbursement bank accounts as required.
No interest was charged on transactions with Anheuser-Busch.
Anheuser-Busch provided certain general and administrative services to
the Company, including tax, treasury, risk management and insurance, legal,
research and development, information systems and human resources. These
expenses were allocated to the Company based on actual usage or other methods
which management believed to be reasonable. These allocations were $0.9
million for the 1996 transition period and $10.7 and $9.8 million in fiscal
years 1995 and 1994, respectively. These costs could have been different had
the Company operated on its own during these periods presented.
The Company was included in the combined Federal and certain state
income tax returns of Anheuser-Busch through March 26, 1996. The provision
for income taxes and related tax payments or refunds reflected in the
Company's financial statements prior to the current fiscal year are computed
as if a separate return had been filed for the Company, using those elements
of income and expense as reported in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings.
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 29
32
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(CONTINUED)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7. RETIREMENT BENEFITS
- -----------------------
Pension plans
Earthgrains has pension plans covering substantially all of its regular
employees. In conjunction with the Distribution, Anheuser-Busch assumed
responsibility for the vested portion of all benefits as of March 26, 1996.
Accordingly, all pension assets and liabilities as of that date were retained
by Anheuser-Busch.
Net pension expense (benefit) for single-employer defined benefit plans
was comprised of the following for the three fiscal years and the transition
period (in millions):
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fiscal Transition Fiscal Fiscal
Year Period Year Year
1997 1996 1995 1994
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Service cost (benefits
earned during the year) $ 2.8 $ 1.0 $ 3.8 $ 3.9
Interest cost on projected
benefit obligation 0.9 2.0 8.4 8.6
Assumed return on assets (0.2) (4.4) (17.5) (15.6)
Amortization of actuarial
gains (losses) and the excess
of market value of plan
assets over projected benefit
obligation at January 1, 1986 1.1 (0.7) (2.8) (5.0)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net pension expense (benefit) $ 4.6 $(2.1) $ (8.1) $ (8.1)
================================================================================================
The key actuarial assumptions used in determining pension expense
(benefit) for single-employer defined benefit plans were as follows for each
of the three fiscal years and the transition period:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fiscal Transition Fiscal Fiscal
Year Period Year Year
1997 1996 1995 1994
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Discount rate 7.5% 7.5% 8.0% 7.5%
Long-term rate
of return on plan assets 10.0% 10.0% 10.0% 10.0%
Weighted-average rate
of compensation increase 4.5% 5.5% 5.5% 5.5%
There was no gain on pension assets in fiscal year 1997. The actual
gain on pension assets was $4.4 million, $30.1 million and $3.5 million in
the 1996 transition period, and fiscal years 1995 and 1994, respectively.
The following tables set forth the funded status of all Company
single-employer defined benefit plans as of (in millions):
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 25, March 26,
1997 1996
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Plan assets at fair market value -
primarily corporate equity securities
and publicly traded bonds $ 6.3 $ 193.9
Accumulated benefit obligation:
Vested benefits (6.0) (104.8)
Nonvested benefits (0.8) (1.2)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Accumulated benefit obligation (6.8) (106.0)
Effect of projected compensation increases (7.9) (13.0)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Projected benefit obligation (14.7) (119.0)
Plan assets (less than) in excess
of projected benefit obligation $ (8.4) $ 74.9
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Plan assets (less than) in excess of
projected benefit obligation consist
of the following components:
Unamortized excess of market value
of plan assets over projected benefit
obligation at January 1, 1986
being amortized over 15 years $ 0.4 $ 16.4
Unrecognized net actuarial
gains (losses) 0.1 (9.3)
Prior service costs (7.5) (1.4)
(Pension liability)
prepaid pension (1.4) 69.2
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Plan assets (less than) in excess of
projected benefit obligation $ (8.4) $ 74.9
=================================================================================
The assumptions used in determining the funded
status of these plans were as follows:
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1997 1996
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Discount rate 7.5% 7.5%
Weighted-average rate of
compensation increase 4.5% 5.5%
Contributions to multiple and multi-employer plans in which the Company
participates are determined in accordance with the provisions of negotiated
labor contracts. Contributions to these plans were $23.2 million, $5.7
million, $23.8 million and $24.1 million for fiscal 1997, the 1996 transition
period, and fiscal years 1995 and 1994, respectively.
30 THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY
33
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Postretirement benefits
The Company provides certain health care and life insurance benefits to
eligible retired employees. Salaried participants generally become eligible
for retiree health care benefits after reaching age 60 with 30 years of
service or after reaching age 65. Bargaining unit employees generally become
eligible for retiree health care benefits after reaching age 55 with 10-15
years of service or after reaching age 65.
The following table sets forth the accumulated postretirement benefit
obligation (APBO) and the total postretirement benefit liability for all
single-employer defined benefit plans in the Company's balance sheets as of
(in millions):
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 25, March 26,
1997 1996
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retirees $ 50.5 $ 52.2
Fully eligible active plan participants 17.0 15.5
Other active plan participants 26.8 21.2
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Accumulated postretirement benefit
obligation (APBO) 94.3 88.9
Unrecognized prior service benefits 38.9 45.4
Unrecognized net actuarial (losses) (8.7) (7.4)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total postretirement benefit liability $124.5 $126.9
=================================================================================
As of March 25, 1997, and March 26, 1996, $118.8 million and $123.1
million of this obligation was classified as a long-term liability and $5.7
million and $3.8 million was classified as a current liability, respectively.
Net periodic postretirement benefits expense for single-employer
defined benefit plans for the following periods was comprised of the
following (in millions):
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fiscal Transition Fiscal Fiscal
Year Period Year Year
1997 1996 1995 1994
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Service cost (benefits
attributed to service
during the year) $ 3.3 $ 0.8 $ 2.7 $ 3.0
Interest cost on
accumulated postretirement
benefit obligation 6.7 1.5 6.4 5.8
Amortization of prior
service benefit (6.4) (1.5) (6.4) (6.4)
Amortization of actuarial gain -- -- -- (.9)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net periodic postretirement
benefits expense $ 3.6 $ 0.8 $ 2.7 $ 1.5
================================================================================================
In measuring the APBO, a 10.0% annual trend rate for health care costs
was assumed for fiscal year 1997 and 12.5% was used for prior periods
presented. This rate is assumed to decline ratably over the next 9-12 years
to 5.0% and remain at that level thereafter. The weighted-average discount
rate used in determining the APBO was 8.0% at March 25, 1997 and March 26,
1996.
If the assumed health care cost rate changed by 1%, the APBO as of the
end of fiscal year 1997 would change by 8.7%. The effect of a 1% change in
the cost trend rate on the service and interest cost components of net
periodic postretirement benefits expense would be a change of 10.1%.
8. EMPLOYEE STOCK OWNERSHIP PLAN
- -----------------------------------
Substantially all domestic regular salaried and hourly employees are eligible
for participation in the new company-sponsored Employee Stock Ownership Plan
(ESOP) that became effective July 1, 1996. The ESOP borrowed $16.8 million
from the Company for a term of 10 years at an interest rate of 8.0% and used
the proceeds to buy 513,114 shares of common stock from the Company. ESOP
shares are being allocated to participants over the 10-year period, as
contributions are made to the plan.
The ESOP cash contributions and ESOP expense accrued during the plan
year are determined by several factors, including the market price and number
of shares allocated to participants, ESOP debt service, dividends on
unallocated shares and the Company's 401(k) matching contribution. Over the
10-year life of the ESOP, total expense recognized will equal the total cash
contributions made by the Company.
The ESOP is based on a June 30 plan year with cash contributions made
monthly. Cash contributions and dividends on unallocated ESOP shares for
fiscal 1997 were $1.9 million, and $0.1 million, respectively.
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 31
34
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(CONTINUED)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. STOCK OPTIONS AND RESTRICTED STOCK
- ----------------------------------------
In connection with its spin-off from Anheuser-Busch, Earthgrains adopted and
Anheuser-Busch, then the sole shareholder of the Company, approved The
Earthgrains Company 1996 Stock Incentive Plan (the 1996 Incentive Plan). The
1996 Incentive Plan authorizes the issuance of up to 1,130,000 shares of
Earthgrains Common Stock pursuant to the grant of restricted stock and the
exercise of incentive stock options, nonqualified stock options and stock
appreciation rights. Grants under the 1996 Incentive Plan are made at the
market price on the date of the grant. Options granted pursuant to the 1996
Incentive Plan vest over a three year period from the date of grant and, once
vested, are generally exercisable over ten years from the anniversary of the
grant date. The plan also provides for the granting of stock appreciation
rights (SARs) in tandem with stock options. The exercise of an SAR cancels
the related option and the exercise of an option cancels the related SAR. At
March 25, 1997, there were no SARs outstanding under the plan.
Under the 1996 Incentive Plan, 166,551 restricted shares of Earthgrains
Common Stock were issued to certain officers of the Company. Restricted
share awards vest one half each after 54 and 66 months following the date of
the award. Compensation cost is recognized over the vesting period. No
further shares of restricted stock are authorized under the 1996 Incentive
Plan.
The Company applies Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25 (APB
25), "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," in accounting for its stock
option plans. Accordingly, because the grant price equals the market price
on the date of grant, no compensation expense is recognized for stock option
grants. Had compensation cost for the Company's stock options been
determined based upon the fair value at the grant date consistent with the
methodology prescribed under FAS 123, the Company's net income and earnings
per share for the year ended March 25, 1997, would have been affected as
follows (in millions except shares, per grant and per share amounts):
- ------------------------------------------------------------
Fiscal Year
1997
- ------------------------------------------------------------
Reported net income $16.2
Pro forma net income $14.4
Reported earnings per share $1.60
Pro forma earnings per share $1.42
The weighted-average fair value of options granted (which is amortized
to expense over the option vesting period in determining the pro forma
impact), is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes
option-pricing model with the following assumptions:
- ------------------------------------------------------------
1997
- ------------------------------------------------------------
Risk-free interest rate 6.4%
Expected life of option 4 Yrs.
Expected volatility of Earthgrains stock 25%
Expected dividend yield on Earthgrains stock 0.7%
The weighted-average fair value of options granted during 1997 is as
follows:
- ------------------------------------------------------------
1997
- ------------------------------------------------------------
Fair value of each option granted $ 10.23
Number of options granted 801,773
- ------------------------------------------------------------
Total fair value of all options granted $ 8.2
============================================================
In accordance with FAS 123, the weighted-average fair value of stock
options granted is required to be based on a theoretical statistical model in
accord with assumptions noted above. In actuality, because employee stock
options do not trade on a secondary exchange, employees receive no benefit
and derive no value from holding stock options under these plans without an
increase in the market price of Earthgrains stock. Such an increase in stock
price would benefit all stockholders.
The following table summarizes the stock option transactions under the
Earthgrains 1996 Incentive Plan:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Option Weighted Average
Shares Exercise Price
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Outstanding, March 26, 1996 -0- --
Granted 829,645 $37.37
Exercised -- --
Cancelled 27,872 $30.63
- ------------------------------------------------------
Outstanding, March 25, 1997 801,773 $37.60
==========================================================================
32 THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY
35
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The following table summarizes information for options currently
outstanding at March 25, 1997:
- ------------------------------------------------------------
Options Outstanding
- ------------------------------------------------------------
Wtd. Avg. Wtd. Avg.
Range Remaining Exercise
of Prices Number Life Price
- ------------------------------------------------------------
$30-36 536,393 10 Yrs $30.64
46-52 265,380 10 Yrs 51.67
-------
$30-52 801,773 10 Yrs $37.60
At March 25, 1997, no options outstanding were exercisable and 161,676
shares of Earthgrains Common Stock were available for future awards under the
1996 Incentive Plan. The plan provides for acceleration of exercisability of
outstanding options and the vesting of restricted shares upon the occurrence
of certain events relating to a change of control, merger, sale of assets or
liquidation of the Company.
10. CAPITAL STOCK
- -------------------
On February 26, 1996, the Board of Directors of Anheuser-Busch declared a
distribution (the Distribution) of one share of Earthgrains common stock,
$.01 par value, for every 25 shares of Anheuser-Busch common stock
outstanding. On March 26, 1996, Earthgrains was spun off from Anheuser-Busch,
and 10,092,133 shares of Earthgrains Common Stock were distributed to
Anheuser-Busch shareholders. Effective March 29, 1996, 1,130,000 shares were
authorized for the issuance under the 1996 Stock Incentive Plan. Of those
shares, 166,551 were issued as restricted share grants to certain Earthgrains
Officers. Additionally, 513,114 shares were authorized for the Employee
Stock Ownership Plan, activated on July 1, 1996, of which 55,246 shares have
been allocated to participants. 3,600 shares were granted as restricted
shares and 2,652 shares were issued as compensation to members of the Board
of Directors. As of March 25, 1997, 10,788,050 shares of Earthgrains Common
Stock and no shares of Earthgrains Preferred Stock were issued and
outstanding.
11. INCOME TAXES
- ------------------
The provision (benefit) for income taxes consists of the following amounts
for the periods ended (in millions):
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fiscal Transition Fiscal Fiscal
Year Period Year Year
1997 1996 1995 1994
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Current tax provision (benefit):
Federal $ 2.0 $ 1.9 $(5.0) $(12.6)
State and foreign 2.8 2.1 5.2 7.5
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4.8 4.0 0.2 (5.1)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deferred tax provision (benefit):
Federal (0.8) (5.7) 0.6 16.6
State and foreign 2.5 (0.5) 1.9 3.5
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.7 (6.2) 2.5 20.1
Provision for income taxes $ 6.5 $(2.2) $ 2.7 $ 15.0
================================================================================================
The deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities as of the end of each
period are comprised of the following (in millions):
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 25, March 26,
1997 1996
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deferred tax liabilities:
Depreciation and property differences $139.1 $139.2
Deferred systems development costs 8.0 6.9
Pension plan 4.2 4.6
Other 15.9 16.6
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deferred tax liabilities 167.2 167.3
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deferred tax assets:
Postretirement benefits other
than pensions (47.8) (48.9)
Self-insurance reserves (20.3) (21.0)
Reserve for restructuring
and consolidation (5.1) (5.7)
Accrued liabilities (9.8) (16.4)
Other (10.3) (3.1)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deferred tax (assets) (93.3) (95.1)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net deferred tax liabilities $ 73.9 $ 72.2
========================================================================
A reconciliation between the statutory rate and the effective rate is
presented below:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1997 1996 1995 1994
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tax at statutory rate $ 7.9 $(2.5) $(1.4) $ 9.2
State income taxes,
net of Federal benefit -- (0.2) 0.5 1.7
Amortization of goodwill 1.9 0.4 2.9 1.9
Foreign tax credits and other (4.4) -- -- --
Meals and entertainment 0.5 0.1 0.6 0.5
Other, net 0.6 -- 0.1 1.7
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Provision for income taxes $ 6.5 $(2.2) $ 2.7 $15.0
====================================================================================
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 33
36
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(CONTINUED)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12. CASH FLOWS
- ----------------
Supplemental information with respect to the Consolidated Statements of Cash
Flows for each of the periods is presented below (in millions):
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fiscal Transition Fiscal Fiscal
Year Period Year Year
1997 1996 1995 1994
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interest paid, net of capitalized interest $ 5.4 $ -- $ 2.0 $ 1.6
Income taxes paid (refunded) 3.4 -- (6.0) 36.3
Changes in noncash working capital, net of effect of acquisition:
Decrease (increase) in noncash current assets:
Accounts receivable, net $ (2.9) $ 0.1 $ 10.8 $ 1.4
Inventories, net 2.1 2.6 8.0 (1.2)
Other current assets (0.3) (6.3) 5.8 (10.0)
Increase (decrease) in current liabilities:
Accounts payable 23.1 3.9 (15.4) 6.9
Accrued salaries, wages and benefits (2.1) 5.3 (5.6) (4.0)
Accrual for restructuring and consolidation (12.5) (2.5) (8.0) (45.8)
Income taxes payable -- -- -- (39.2)
Other current liabilities (14.3) 14.0 10.0 --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(Increase) decrease in noncash working capital $ (6.9) $17.1 $ 5.6 $(91.9)
========================================================================================================================
13. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
- -----------------------------------
The Company and certain of its subsidiaries are involved in certain claims
and legal proceedings in which monetary damages and other relief are sought.
These proceedings, arising in the normal course of business, are in varying
stages and may proceed for protracted periods of time.
Although it is impossible to predict the outcome of any legal
proceeding, the Company believes that it has meritorious defenses or
insurance coverage to meet the proceedings pending against it and that the
outcome of such proceedings should not, individually or in the aggregate,
have a material adverse effect on the results of operations or financial
condition of the Company.
The operations of Earthgrains, like those of similar businesses, are
subject to various Federal, state and local laws and regulations with respect
to environmental matters, including air and water quality, underground fuel
storage tanks, and other regulations intended to protect public health and
the environment. Earthgrains has been identified as a potentially
responsible party ("PRP") at certain locations under the Comprehensive
Environmental Responses, Compensation and Liability Act, and the Company may
be required to share in the cost of cleanup with respect to two sites.
Although it is difficult to quantify with certainty the financial impact of
actions related to environmental matters, based on the information currently
available it is management's opinion that the ultimate liability arising from
such matters, taking into consideration established reserves, should not have
a material effect on the Company's results of operations or financial
position.
Future rental commitments under noncancelable operating leases in
effect as of the end of fiscal year 1997 were, in millions: 1998 - $8.5,
1999 - $6.8, 2000 - $5.8, 2001 - $4.1, 2002 - $2.2, thereafter - $1.0.
34 THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY
37
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
14. QUARTERLY FINANCIAL DATA (UNAUDITED)
- -----------------------------------------
Summarized quarterly financial data for each of the fiscal years appear below
(each quarter represents a period of twelve weeks except for the December
quarter, which includes sixteen weeks):
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Selected Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited)
-------------------------------------------------------------------
June September December March Fiscal
(In millions, except per share data) Quarter Quarter Quarter Quarter Year
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1997
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sales $370.5 $381.8 $522.7 $387.6 $1,662.6
Gross profit 145.2 156.6 211.8 160.2 673.8
Net income 0.7 4.5 9.1 1.9<Fa> 16.2
Earnings per share<Fc> $ .07 $ .45 $ .91 $ .19<Fa> $ 1.60
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1996 Transition Period
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sales $367.7 $ 367.7
Gross profit 138.9 138.9
Net (loss) (5.1) (5.1)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March June September December Calendar
Quarter Quarter Quarter Quarter Fiscal Year
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1995
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sales $371.8 $384.8 $383.1 $524.9 $1,664.6
Gross profit 145.7 150.1 145.4 188.7 629.9
Net income (loss) (0.3) 1.8 (0.1) (8.0)<Fb> (6.6)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<FN>
<Fa> Quarter's results include the $11.7 million pre-tax provision for
restructuring and consolidation and $5.3 million in one-time Spanish
tax incentives and credits.
<Fb> Quarter's results were reduced by $18.0 million of the year's $27.5
million pre-tax provision for restructuring and consolidation,
increased by the $18.4 million gain on sale of businesses and reduced
by the $7.8 million pre-tax provision for the Spanish work force
reduction program.
<Fc> Earnings per share is computed independently for each of the periods
presented, therefore, the sum of the earnings per share amounts for
the quarters may not equal the total for the year.
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 35
38
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statement
(CONTINUED)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15. GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION
- ---------------------------
The Company operates in the United States and Europe. The foreign
information below is comprised primarily of the Company's Spanish subsidiary.
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Consolidated
(In millions) Domestic Foreign Total
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net sales
1997 $1,297.1 $365.5 $1,662.6
1996 (twelve weeks) 284.9 82.8 367.7
1995 1,308.1 356.5 1,664.6
1994 1,404.3 316.2 1,720.5
Operating income (loss)
1997 2.4<Fa> 25.2 27.6<Fa>
1996 (twelve weeks) (11.0) 3.9 (7.1)
1995 (18.9)<Fb> 12.2<Fc> (6.7)<Fb><Fc>
1994 12.1 13.5 25.6
Identifiable assets
1997 849.8 182.3 1,032.1
1996 863.1 184.2 1,047.3
1995 886.7 178.9 1,065.6
1994 871.3 166.8 1,038.1
<FN>
<Fa> 1997 operating income was reduced by the $12.7 pre-tax provision for
restructuring and consolidation.
<Fb> 1995 operating income was reduced by the $27.5 pre-tax provision for
restructuring and consolidation and increased by the $18.4 million
gain on sale of businesses.
<Fc> 1995 operating income was reduced by $7.8 million for the Spanish work
force reduction program.
16. SUBSEQUENT EVENT (UNAUDITED)
- ----------------------------------
On May 5, 1997, the Earthgrains Board of Directors declared a two-for-one
stock split for shareholders of record as of May 30, 1997. The split is
effective July 28, 1997.
17. QUARTERLY COMMON STOCK PRICE RANGES AND DIVIDENDS
- -------------------------------------------------------
The Earthgrains Company Common Stock is listed and traded on the New York
Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "EGR." The table below presents the
high and low market for the stock and cash dividend information for each
quarter of fiscal 1997.
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Fiscal 1997 High Low Dividends
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
June Quarter $36 $29-1/8 $ --
September Quarter $36 $31-1/2 .05
December Quarter $53-7/8 $33-1/4 .05
March Quarter $57-3/8 $43-3/4 .05
Earthgrains Common Stock began trading on the New York Stock Exchange
March 27, 1996, following the spin-off from Anheuser-Busch. Earthgrains'
first dividend to shareholders as an independent public company was declared
in the June quarter and paid in the September quarter of fiscal 1997.
36 THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY
39
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
18. SUPPLEMENTAL BALANCE SHEET INFORMATION
- --------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
March 25, March 26,
(In millions) 1997 1996
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Receivables:
Trade $ 147.5 $ 142.7
Allowance for doubtful accounts 6.0 6.8
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 141.5 $ 135.9
====================================================================================
Inventories:
Raw materials $ 51.6 $ 53.6
Finished goods 14.8 14.4
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 66.4 $ 68.0
====================================================================================
Other assets:
Litigation escrow fund $ -- $ 13.4
Other 28.8 25.2
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 28.8 $ 38.6
====================================================================================
Plant and equipment:
Land $ 65.1 $ 65.1
Buildings 460.7 441.7
Machinery and equipment 718.3 696.1
Construction in progress 37.0 80.7
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1,281.1 1,283.6
Less accumulated depreciation (574.4) (560.4)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 706.7 $ 723.2
====================================================================================
Accrued salaries, wages and benefits:
Accrued payroll $ 16.9 $ 21.8
Accrued vacation 15.3 14.7
Accrued group benefits 14.4 12.1
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 46.6 $ 48.6
====================================================================================
Other current liabilities:
Current portion of self-insurance reserves $ 17.0 $ 15.2
Reserve for litigation settlement -- 6.3
Accrued taxes, other than income taxes 9.0 10.8
Spanish work force reduction program 0.9 7.8
Other items 5.7 9.3
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 32.6 $ 49.4
====================================================================================
Other noncurrent liabilities:
Self-insurance reserves $ 36.4 $ 40.1
Litigation reserve -- 13.4
Other items 11.7 15.3
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$ 48.1 $ 68.8
====================================================================================
Supplemental balance sheet information (in millions) (continued):
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fiscal Transition Fiscal Fiscal
Year Period Year Year
1997 1996 1995 1994
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Allowance for doubtful
accounts:
Balance, beginning
of period $ 6.8 $ 6.4 $ 5.5 $ 5.1
Provision charged
to expense 0.2 0.7 1.8 1.4
Write-offs,
less recoveries (1.0) (0.3) (0.9) (1.0)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Balance, end of period $ 6.0 $ 6.8 $ 6.4 $ 5.5
============================================================================================================
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 37
40
Responsibility for Financial Statements
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The management of The Earthgrains Company is responsible for the preparation
and integrity of the consolidated financial statements appearing in this
annual report. The financial statements were prepared in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles appropriate in the circumstances
and, accordingly, include certain amounts based on our best judgments and
estimates.
We are responsible for maintaining a system of internal accounting
controls and procedures which we believe are adequate to provide reasonable
assurance, at an appropriate cost/benefit relationship, that assets are
safeguarded against loss from unauthorized use or disposition and financial
records provide a reliable basis for preparation of the financial statements.
The internal accounting control system is augmented by a program of internal
audits and appropriate reviews by management, written policies and
guidelines, careful selection and training of qualified personnel and a
written Code of Business Conduct adopted by our Company's Board of Directors,
applicable to all management employees of our Company.
The Audit and Finance Committee of our Company's Board of Directors,
composed solely of directors who are not officers of our Company, meets with
the independent auditors, management and internal auditors periodically to
discuss internal accounting controls and auditing and financial reporting
matters. The Committee reviews with the independent auditors the scope and
results of the audit effort. The Committee also meets with the independent
auditors and the chief internal auditor without management present to ensure
that the independent auditors and the chief internal auditor have free access
to the Committee.
Price Waterhouse LLP is engaged to audit the consolidated financial
statements of The Earthgrains Company and conduct such tests and related
procedures as it deems necessary in conformity with generally accepted
auditing standards. The opinion of the independent auditors, based upon
their audits of the consolidated financial statements, is shown below.
Report of Independent Accountants
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To the Shareholders and Board of Directors
of The Earthgrains Company
In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated balance sheets and the related
consolidated statements of earnings, of cash flows, and of shareholders'
equity present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of
The Earthgrains Company at March 25, 1997 and March 26, 1996, and the results
of its operations and its cash flows for the fiscal year ended March 25,
1997, the 12-week period ended March 26, 1996, and the fiscal years ended
January 2, 1996, and January 3, 1995, in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles. These financial statements are the responsibility of
the Company's management; our responsibility is to express an opinion on
these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits of
these statements in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards
which 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, assessing
the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management,
and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that
our audits provide a reasonable basis for the opinion expressed above.
/s/ Price Waterhouse LLP
PRICE WATERHOUSE LLP
St. Louis, Missouri
May 2, 1997
38 THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY
41
Five-Year Financial Highlights
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For the
twelve,
weeks ended Fiscal Years
(In millions, except per share data) Fiscal Year March 26, ---------------------------------------------------
1997 1996<Fa> 1995<Fa> 1994<Fa><Fb> 1993<Fa> 1992<Fa>
======================================================================================================================
Statement of Earnings Data:
Net sales $1,662.6 $ 367.7 $1,664.6 $1,720.5 $1,740.6 $1,766.0
Cost of products sold 988.8 228.8 1,034.7 1,071.0 1,039.4 1,049.5
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gross profit 673.8 138.9 629.9 649.5 701.2 716.5
Marketing, distribution and
administrative expenses 633.5 146.0 627.5 623.9 616.9 653.9
Provision for restructuring
and consolidation, net 12.7 -- 9.1 -- 114.6 --
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Operating income (loss) 27.6 (7.1) (6.7) 25.6 (30.3) 62.6
Other income and expenses:
Interest (expense) (6.3) (0.1) (1.9) (1.9) (3.4) (4.0)
Other income (expense), net 1.4 (0.1) 4.7 2.6 2.2 3.4
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income (loss) before income taxes 22.7 (7.3) (3.9) 26.3 (31.5) 62.0
Provision (benefit) for income taxes 6.5 (2.2) 2.7 15.0 (4.5) 23.4
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net income (loss) before cumulative
effect of accounting changes 16.2 (5.1) (6.6) 11.3 (27.0) 38.6
Cumulative effect of changes in accounting
(FAS 106 and FAS 109) -- -- -- -- -- (28.2)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net income (loss) $ 16.2<Fc> $ (5.1) $ (6.6)<Fd> $ 11.3 $ (27.0)<Fd> $ 10.4
======================================================================================================================
Earnings per share $ 1.60
==================================================
Weighted average shares outstanding 10.1
==================================================
Balance Sheet Data:
Working capital $ 80.6 $ 74.0 $ 63.1 $ 69.3 $ 15.6 $ 82.7
Current ratio 1.4x 1.4x 1.3x 1.4x 1.1x 1.3x
Plant and equipment, net $ 706.7 $ 723.2 $ 713.6 $ 706.2 $ 708.0 $ 706.3
Long-term debt $ 103.0 $ 92.6 $ 1.5 $ 11.6 $ 12.0 $ 12.2
Deferred income taxes, net $ 73.9 $ 72.2 $ 109.4 $ 106.9 $ 86.8 $ 123.5
Anheuser-Busch equity investment $ -- $ 582.1 $ 701.3 $ 684.3 $ 636.3 $ 694.7
Shareholders' equity $ 582.4 $ -- $ -- $ -- $ -- $ --
Total assets $1,172.1 $1,177.6 $1,197.2 $1,177.2 $1,208.4 $1,273.4
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<FN>
<Fa> Earthgrains was a wholly-owned subsidiary of Anheuser-Busch Companies,
Inc. until March 27, 1996. Accordingly, statements for prior
periods do not include costs associated with being an independent
public company. See unaudited Pro Forma Financial Information on
page 17 of this report for comparative purposes.
<Fb> Fiscal year 1994 includes 53 weeks.
<Fc> Reflects the effect of the provision for restructuring and consolidation
and one-time Spanish tax incentives and credits. See "Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Results of Operations and Financial
Condition" and Footnote 4 in the Notes to the Consolidated Financial
Statements.
<Fd> Reflects the effect of the provision for restructuring and consolidation.
See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Results of Operations
and Financial Condition."
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 39
42
Officers of The Earthgrains Company and Its Principal Subsidiaries
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY
- -----------------------
Policy Committee
Barry H. Beracha
Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer
John W. Iselin, Jr.
Executive Vice President
(Domestic Baking)
Xavier Argente
Executive Vice President (Bimbo)
William H. Opdyke
Executive Vice President
(Refrigerated Dough Products)
Larry G. Bergner
Vice President -- Technology
Todd A. Brown
Vice President -- Operations
(Refrigerated Dough Products)
Bary M. Horner
Vice President -- Bakery
Operations
Mark H. Krieger
Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
Timothy J. Mitchell
Vice President -- Sales
(Refrigerated Dough Products)
Joseph M. Noelker
Vice Prresident, General Counsel
and Corporate Secretary
Larry D. Pearson
Vice President -- Diversified
Products
Bryan A. Torcivia
Vice President -- Planning,
Purchasing and Europate
Richard W. Witherspoon
Vice President -- Business
Development
(Refrigerated Dough Products)
Edward J. Wizeman
Vice President -- Human
Resources
Other Officers
Steven M. Brazile
Vice President -- Business Systems
George L. Moore
Vice President -- Labor Relations
William J. Palmer
Vice President -- Materials and
Transportation
John T. Reeves
Vice President -- Research and
Development
Virgil H. Rehkemper
Vice President and Controller
Michael A. Salamone
Vice President and Treasurer
Molly R. Salky
Vice President -- Investor Relations
and Communications
EARTHGRAINS BAKING COMPANIES, INC.
- ----------------------------------
John W. Iselin, Jr.
President
Barry M. Horner
Executive Vice President --
Operations
Larry D. Pearson
Executive Vice President --
Diversified Products
H. Edward Broome
Senior Vice President and General
Manager -- Mid-South Region
Thomas E. Coover
Vice President -- Sales
(Diversified Products)
Gary M. Feil
Senior Vice President and General
Manager -- California Region
Earl W. Heiner, Jr.
Senior Vice President and
General Manager -- Heiner's
Gary L. Jensen
Senior Vice President -- Marketing
Talmadge L. Miles
Senior Vice President and General
Manager -- Southeast Region
Steven V. Proscino
Senior Vice President and General
Manager -- Central Region
V. Anthony Ricker
Senior Vice President and
General Manager -- Texas Region
Philip L. Sexton
Senior Vice President --
National Accounts
Michael P. Swanson
Vice President -- Operations
(Diversified Products)
Jerry W. Thompson
Senior Vice President and General
Manager -- Southwest Region
Martha S. Uhlhorn
Vice President -- ECR and
Sales Technology
Joseph J. Waters
Vice President --
Field Services
Donald J. Wyant
Vice President --
Baking Technology
EARTHGRAINS REFRIGERATED DOUGH PRODUCTS, INC.
- ---------------------------------------------
William H. Opdyke
President
Todd A. Brown
Executive Vice President --
Operations
Timothy J. Mitchell
Executive Vice President --
Sales
Richard W. Witherspoon
Executive Vice President --
Business Development
William S. Cantzler
Regional Vice President -- Sales
William H. Crosby
Regional Vice President -- Sales
David M. Epps
Regional Vice President -- Sales
Dave A. Hall
Regional Vice President -- Sales
Thomas L. Rigdon
Regional Vice President -- Sales
BIMBO, S.A.
- -----------
Xavier Argente
Chief Executive Officer
Fermin Altarriba
Managing Director -- PIMAD
Enrique Belda
Vice President -- Industrial
Santiago Guerra
Managing Director -- CATDES
(Canary Islands)
EUROPATE, S.A.
- --------------
Bryan A. Torcivia
Chief Executive Officer
Henri Patacz
President
Gilbert Caratte
Director of Operations
Miguel Llado
Vice President -- Marketing
and Sales
Manuel Marcet
Vice President -- Human Resources
Carlos Martinez
Vice President -- Finance and
Administration
Leonor Sa Machado
Managing Director -- Portugal
Thierry Jonquois
Director of Sales
Jean-Louis Sabin
Director of Finance and
Administration
40 THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY
43
Board of Directors
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[PHOTO]
Barry H. Beracha (55)
Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer
The Earthgrains Company
Director; Metal Container Co.
Director since 1993
[PHOTO]
Peter F. Benoist (49)
Executive Vice President,
Mercantile Bank of St. Louis, N.A.
Director; St. Louis Equity Fund
Director since 1996
[PHOTO]
Jaime Iglesias (66)
Retired Chairman,
Anheuser-Busch Europe Inc.
Director since 1996
[PHOTO]
William E. Stevens (54)
Executive Vice President,
Mills & Partners
Director; McCormick &
Company, Inc.
Director since 1996
[PHOTO]
J. Joe Adorjan (58)
Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer,
Borg-Warner Security Corporation
Director; ESCO Electronics,
California Microwave Corporation,
Goss Printing Company
Director since 1996
[PHOTO]
Maxine K. Clark (48)
President and
Chief Executive Officer,
Smart Stuff, Inc.
Director; Tandy Brands
Accessories, Inc.; Wave Technologies
Director since 1996
[PHOTO]
Jerry E. Ritter (62)
Chairman,
Clark Enterprises
Director; Brown Group, Inc.;
OmniQuip International, Inc.;
O'Gara Company
Director since 1995
Corporate Information
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The Earthgrains Company
Headquarters
8400 Maryland Avenue
St. Louis, Missouri 63105-3668
314-259-7000
Annual Meeting
Friday, July 25, 1997, 10:00 a.m.
America's Center
1 Convention Plaza
St. Louis, Missouri 63102
Transfer Agent, Registrar
and Dividend Payments
ChaseMellon Shareholder
Services
450 West 33rd Street
New York, New York 10001
1-888-213-0971
Investor Information
and Media Inquiries
Investor Relations
and Communications --
The Earthgrains Company
8400 Maryland Avenue
St. Louis, Missouri 63105-3668
314-259-7000
E-mail at invest@egr.com
Quarterly information is
available to all shareholders,
free of charge, via fax or mail,
by calling 1-888-213-0971.
SEC Filings
The Earthgrains Company files
forms 10-K and 10-Q with
the Securities and Exchange
Commission; shareholders may
obtain a copy of these forms,
without charge, by contacting
the Corporate Secretary at
Earthgrains headquarters.
Stock Trading Information
Listed on New York
Stock Exchange
Ticker Symbol: EGR
Newspaper Listing: Earthgr
Independent Accountants
Price Waterhouse LLP
800 Market Street
St. Louis, Missouri 63101
Dividends
Dividends are normally paid
in the months of May, August,
November, and February.
The Earthgrains Company
Principal Subsidiaries:
A U.S. manufacturer of fresh
baked goods with distribution
throughout the Southeast,
South, Midwest, Southwest
and Northern California.
Earthgrains Refrigerated
Dough Products, Inc.
Manufactures refrigerated
dough products and baked
toaster pastries at plants in
Forest Park, Georgia, and
Carrollton, Texas, and
distributes its products
nationally.
Bimbo, S.A.
Operates eight bakeries in
Spain and the Canary Islands
and is constructing a bakery
in Portugal. Distributes prod-
ucts in Spain and Portugal.
Europate, S.A.
Operates a refrigerated dough
plant in France and distributes
products throughout Europe.
Trademarks
All product or service names
appearing in type form different
from that of the surorunding
text are trademarks or service
marks owned by or licensed to
The Earthgrains Company and
its subsidiaries or affiliates.
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 41
44
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF EARTHGRAINS | On Thursday, March 27, 1997, we
celebrated [PICTURE] our first year as an independent public company.
On that day, as on every other, we baked more than 70 million
servings of packaged fresh bread, rolls, and buns [PICTURE] in America
and Spain. We delivered these fresh goods to customers along more
than 3,900 delivery routes across the United States and Europe. We also
produced and sold more than 12 million servings of toaster pastries
and refrigerated dough -- canned biscuits, cinnamon rolls, [PICTURE]
croissants, pastry rolls, and cookie dough -- in America, France and
elsewhere in Europe. [PICTURE] Day in and day out, we serve our
customers and consumers with a variety of healthy, quality, fresh
and tasty products made from grain. We are EARTHGRAINS.
THE EARTHGRAINS COMPANY 8400 MARYLAND AVENUE | ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI 63105-3668